March 2023 | Howard County Beacon

VOL.13, NO.3

The Howard County

IN FOCUS FOR PEOPLE OVER 50

Unsung hero of chamber music

By Robert Friedman

Harry Glass, 84, has been called a “true impresario” as well as the “chief cook and bottle-washer” who, for the past 22 years, has made possible the highly regarded Sundays at Three chamber music concerts in Columbia.

The concerts have featured many of the region’s top musicians — including members of the Baltimore Symphony and the National Symphony Orchestras, faculty from the Peabody Conservatory and distinguished local teachers.

They have been moving and soothing Sunday afternoon audiences at the Christ Episcopal Church on Oakland Mills Road for nearly three decades.

In 2001, Glass took on the non-salaried role as vice president of the series. Now managing director and president, he hires musicians for the events, publicizes the concerts, and even opens church doors, sets up chairs, and locks up afterwards.

“I love the music. Basically, I’m a manager, and get a lot of satisfaction out of helping the institution do what it does,” Glass said.

In his earlier years, he worked in planning and organizing in the healthcare field, which included, among other stints, managing at George Washington University Hospital in D.C., health planning in the Nixon and Carter administrations, and a three-year stint as director at the Boston University Health Policy Institute.

The Boston native moved to Columbia in 1971, just four years after the new planned community opened to residents. Glass has remained here for more than a half century because he loves the people here, he said.

“This has been a very diverse, friendly community of people of all ages who take

advantage of the leisure and other activities in the community,” Glass said.

Popular concert series

Many locals adore the popular chamber music series. Thea Jones, 82, of Columbia, has been a Sundays at Three concertgoer since 2013, when she and husband, Bob, now 93, became subscribers.

“We hear a wonderful variety of programs — chamber music groups, soloists,

brass players, violinists — all played by excellent professional musicians. We would not hear such unique music at such a high level in any other place in the area,” said the retired educator.

The chamber music concerts date back to 1994, when Daniel Malkin, a 30-year-old cellist and teacher, organized the Sunday events at the church. Malkin planned the

See CONCERTS, page 20

LEISURE & TRAVEL

St. Lucia’s dramatic peaks and white-sand beaches make for a perfect Caribbean adventure; plus, visiting Panama for stem cell treatment page 16

ARTS & STYLE

Baltimore’s annual CityLit program brings great writers to the area page 19

FITNESS & HEALTH 3

k Tips to tame inflammation

k Eat this when you lack sleep

LAW & MONEY

14

k Ways to earn money in retirement

k How to reclaim lost assets

PHOTO BY TORI CLEVELAND

Harry Glass, impresario of the county’s Sundays at Three chamber music series, has run the program for more than two decades, attracting top-notch musicians from around the area for popular, affordable concerts.

Critical thinking

As I’ve noted in earlier columns, I was rather critical as a youngster. (Some would say I haven’t changed all that much.) My parents and older brother weren’t always thrilled with my perfectionist attitude about, well, pretty much everything when I was growing up.

Fortunately, my family didn’t just sit there and take it. They argued back. Especially my brother, whom our father nicknamed “argumentative Arnie.”

Our back-and-forths were always leavened heavily with jokes and puns, so it’s not like we were always at each other’s throats. It was more of a competition to get the better of the argument.

clearly, too.

My critical side has been a bit overactive lately thanks to some of the folks who write these days for the daily newspapers.

While they do have a felicity with words and often display a clever sense of humor that I appreciate, to me they also frequently appear to have not thought critically about the topic they are covering and the people they are interviewing.

far in the media as they have, they don’t have a sense of humility that whispers into their ear, “Do you really know what you are talking about? Shouldn’t you do a little more research and talk to a few more people before writing about this?”

You will note that I have refrained from identifying any particular topic in this discussion, as my point is a general one that I think applies to multiple writers at many publications.

personally feel most comfortable. Before moving on to another topic, the original poll would be retaken so the class learns if anyone’s mind has been changed by the exercise.

I think there are plenty of topics in the daily papers to fuel a class of this sort for many weeks, and I would like to think the students would come out of it better thinkers, voters and citizens.

By Stuart P. Rosenthal

When you read a news story and feel you’ve gotten only one side of the story, or perhaps only a caricature of the other side, you know something’s amiss.

I’m not saying the Beacon is perfect, and it’s certainly true that we don’t cover breaking news with a less-than-24-hour turnaround. Daily reporters have a completely different (and much more difficult) job than do those of us who write or edit the Beacon, and I respect those who devote themselves to producing newspapers and websites in these times.

I think it’s fair to say these family debates probably had a lot to do with the fact that my brother has had a long career as a litigator and I became an editor/publisher.

We both feel strongly about the need to write and speak clearly, and in order to do that well, one needs to think (and argue)

Of course, it’s not just the writers who are at fault. Their editors are equally responsible.

And the old codger in me wants to chime in here with “and their poor education!” It seems they were not taught much history, much less critical thinking skills.

And perhaps because they have risen as

Still, it crossed my mind that all writers — indeed, all high school and college students — should be required to take a course in Critical Thinking. I’ve even come up with a game to play in such a class called “Poke a Hole in the Argument.”

I picture the class leader raising a new, often controversial, topic each week and starting by taking a poll: “What is your opinion on topic X?”

Then, the leader assigns thoughtful readings on all sides of the issue, and each day’s class is devoted to an unhampered discussion of one or more of the readings.

Questions to be raised would include: What are the elements of the arguments the writer makes? What is the logic behind those? What additional history or background are they assuming (or omitting)? How would you poke a hole in their argument?

I also believe that any students who participated in such a class wouldn’t want to be “protected” from opinions they disagree with (or hold in disdain), the way many college students today seem to feel.

For example, in a national survey of college students conducted last fall, 43 percent agreed with the statement: “Political opinions that I find offensive from fellow students should be reported to school administrators,” and 51 percent agreed that: “There are certain issues that school administrators or professors should prohibit from being debated on campus.”

Rather than banning speakers with different views from campus, critical thinkers would be itching to hear “the other side” and to engage any speaker in debate in a serious and mature fashion.

In both college and law school, I had teachers who used the Socratic method. We deeply questioned arguments from all sides of an issue, analyzed them, and learned how to respond in an articulate, effective manner.

What do you think? Is it time to try to bring back this time-tested method of thinking?

I believe, over time, such an effort might even improve the work of those who take jobs writing for our daily papers.

The Beacon is a monthly newspaper dedicated to inform, serve, and entertain the citizens of the Howard County area, and is privately owned. Other editions serve Greater Baltimore, Md. and Greater Washington, D.C. Subscriptions are available via third-class mail ($12), prepaid with order. Maryland residents add 6 percent for sales tax. Send subscription order to the office listed below.

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

Publisher/Editor – Stuart P. Rosenthal

President/Associate Publisher – Judith K. Rosenthal

Executive Vice President – Gordon Hasenei

Managing Editor – Margaret Foster

Art Director – Kyle Gregory

Advertising Representatives –Steve Levin, M.K. Phillips, Alan Spiegel

Marketing & Operations Manager – Ashley Griffin

Assistant Editor – Ana Preger Hart

Client Liasion – Jaclyn Thompson

After discussing all the readings, students would be asked to write a clearly reasoned analysis of the subject that looks at all sides and comes down wherever they

publication. Deadline for ads is the 1st of the month preceding the month of publication. See page 23 for classified advertising details. Please mail or email all submissions.

© Copyright 2023 The Beacon Newspapers, Inc.

Dear Editor:

I think your most recent “From the Publisher” column (“Dear Grandson”) is spot-on. Besides saying how overjoyed you are about the birth of your new

grandson, you explained life's travels in such a beautiful and very meaningful way. Yes, it is NOT easy!

Barbara Sherr Baltimore

Health Fitness &

Health

FDA WARNING

When seeking stem cell treatment at home or abroad, do your research first

TOP-SHELF TOOLS

Can’t reach that? These reacher-grabbers are among the best on the market

MIND-CONTROLLED WHEELCHAIR

Paraplegics learn to operate special wheelchairs using only thoughts

ANNOYING AHEMS

Constantly clearing your throat may indicate acid reflux, nerve damage or more

How to prevent unhealthy inflammation

By Robert H. Shmerling, M.D.

Although inflammation serves a vital role in the body’s defense and repair systems, chronic inflammation can cause more harm than good. What can we do about it?

In fact, there’s a lot you can do. And you may already be doing it. That’s because some of the most important ways to fight inflammation are measures you should be taking routinely.

Let’s take a look at key elements of fighting chronic inflammation: prevention, detection and treatment. Here are six of the most effective ways to ward off inflammation:

Choose a healthy diet. Individual foods have a rather small impact on body-wide inflammation, so no, eating more kale isn’t likely to help much. But making sure you eat lots of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats and legumes — sometimes called an anti-inflammatory diet — may reduce inflammation and lower risk for chronic illnesses like diabetes and heart disease.

Not only can these diets help reduce inflammation on their own, but replacing foods that increase inflammation (such as sugary drinks and highly processed foods) benefits your body, too.

Exercise regularly. Physical activity may help counter some types of inflamma-

tion through regulation of the immune system. For example, exercise has anti-inflammatory effects on white blood cells and chemical messengers called cytokines.

Maintain a healthy weight. Because excess fat in cells stimulates body-wide inflammation, avoiding excess weight is key.

Keeping your weight in check also reduces the risk of Type 2 diabetes, a condition that itself causes chronic inflammation.

Manage stress. Repeatedly triggered stress hormones contribute to chronic inflammation. Yoga, deep breathing and mindfulness practices can help calm your nervous system.

Do not smoke. Toxins inhaled in cigarette smoke trigger inflammation in the airways, damage lung tissue, and increase the risk of lung cancer and other health problems.

Other prevention steps. It’s important to prevent inflammatory conditions, such as:

• Infection: Take measures to avoid infections that may cause chronic inflammation. HIV, hepatitis C and COVID-19 are examples. Getting routine vaccinations are examples of effective preventive measures.

• Cancer: Get cancer screening on the schedule recommended by your doctors. For example, a colonoscopy can detect and

remove polyps that could later become cancerous.

• Allergies: By avoiding triggers of asthma, eczema or allergic reactions you can reduce the burden of inflammation in your body.

Do you need tests to detect inflammation?

While testing for inflammation is not routinely recommended, it can be helpful in some situations. For example, tests for inflammation can help to diagnose certain conditions (such as temporal arteritis) or monitor how well treatment is controlling an inflammatory condition (such as rheumatoid arthritis).

However, there are no perfect tests for inflammation. And the best way to know if inflammation is present is to have routine medical care.

How is inflammation treated?

Anti-inflammatory medicines can be helpful to treat an inflammatory condition. And we have numerous FDA-approved options that are widely available — many in inexpensive generic versions. What’s more, these medicines have been around for decades.

Corticosteroids, such as prednisone,

are the gold standard. These powerful anti-inflammatory medicines can be lifesaving in a variety of conditions, ranging from asthma to allergic reactions.

Other anti-inflammatory medicines can also be quite effective. Ibuprofen, naproxen and aspirin are among the 20 or so nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) that come as pills, tablets, liquids taken by mouth, products applied to skin, injections and even suppositories.

Yet relying on anti-inflammatory medicines alone for chronic inflammation is often not the best choice. That’s because these medicines may need to be taken for long periods of time and often cause unacceptable side effects.

It’s far better to seek and treat the cause of inflammation. For example, among people with rheumatoid arthritis, anti-inflammatory medicines such as ibuprofen or steroids may be a short-term approach that helps ease symptoms, yet joint damage may progress unabated.

Controlling the underlying condition with medicines like methotrexate or etanercept can protect the joints and eliminate the need for other anti-inflammatory drugs.

See INFLAMMATION, page 5

Lack of sleep? Here’s what to eat, drink

By Jessica Ball, M.S., RD

Sleep is super important — not only for feeling energized and focused, but also for immunity, heart health, glowing skin and weight stabilization.

If you have a bad night of sleep, don’t sweat it too much. Lean on the following foods and drinks to help give you a boost until you’re able to get the rest you need:

Water : Water is the most important drink when you are short on sleep. Dehydration can lead to overeating, moodiness and headaches, which can be especially draining if you’re lacking sleep.

Staying hydrated will help you feel energized in the short and long term. It’s also important for your brain, skin, heart and more. Carry a water bottle with you to make it easy to sip throughout the day.

Coffee and tea: Even though drinking water is best, there’s nothing wrong with having a moderate amount of caffeine, especially if you’re groggy.

Plus, there are some potential health benefits from drinking coffee and tea. Beyond boosting mood and increasing alertness, compounds in coffee may even improve heart health, brain health, diabetes and more.

Tea contains compounds that, when regularly consumed, may decrease stroke and cancer risk, and it also, when decaffeinated, can improve sleep in the long term.

Fiber-rich foods: There are several reasons why fiber is great for sleep. Fiber helps keep blood sugar steady for longer periods of time, so you can avoid the spikes and crashes that send our energy levels on a roller coaster.

Eating enough fiber can also improve sleep quality. Foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains and legumes are packed with healthy fiber.

Nuts and seeds: Nuts and seeds are packed with healthy fats, protein and fiber to help you feel full longer, and are a great

option for sustained energy when you hit an afternoon lull.

Nuts like walnuts are also great sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which research shows can promote healthy sleep. Seeds like chia seeds and flaxseeds are packed with fiber.

Eggs: Eggs are high in protein, which makes them filling and satisfying. They are quite versatile and, despite recent price increases, affordable. Eggs are also a great source of vitamin B12, which helps our cells metabolize energy and function at our best.

Calcium-rich foods: Foods like dairy, soybeans, sardines and leafy greens are worthwhile additions to your plate when you need energy. They’re high in protein, to keep you feeling fueled, and also are packed with calcium.

A lack of calcium can make it challenging to get quality sleep, possibly because of calcium’s link to healthy blood pressure.

Iron-rich foods: Not getting enough iron can lead to general fatigue and even

anemia. Iron is the main nutrient that delivers oxygen throughout our bodies.

To help you feel energized on a regular basis, make sure to include iron-rich foods like spinach, kale, red meat and clams in your eating pattern. Clams in particular are also rich in energy-boosting nutrients like vitamin B12 and coenzyme Q10.

Bottom line

Sleep is important for short- and longterm health and wellness. Try adjusting your routine to help you get at least seven hours a night.

For days when you didn’t catch enough zs, these foods can give you a boost and set you up for better sleep in the nights to come.

EatingWell is a magazine and website devoted to healthy eating as a way of life. Online at eatingwell.com.

© 2022 Meredith Corporation. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

FDA warnings about stem cell therapies

Courtesy of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration

Stem cell therapies may offer the potential to treat diseases or conditions for which few treatments exist.

Sometimes called the body’s “master cells,” stem cells are the cells that develop into blood, brain, bones and all of the body’s organs.

They have the potential to repair, restore, replace and regenerate cells, and could possibly be used to treat many med-

ical conditions and diseases.

Today, doctors routinely use stem cells that come from bone marrow or blood in transplant procedures to treat patients with cancer and disorders of the blood and immune system.

But the U.S. Food and Drug Administration is concerned that some patients seeking cures and remedies are vulnerable to stem cell treatments that are illegal and potentially harmful.

FDA regulates only U.S. use

The FDA has the authority to regulate stem cell products in the United States.

The only stem cell-based products that are FDA-approved for use in the United States consist of blood-forming stem cells (hematopoietic progenitor cells) derived from cord blood.

These products are approved for limited use in patients with disorders that affect the body system that is involved in the production of blood (called the hematopoietic system).

These FDA-approved stem cell products are listed on the FDA website. Bone marrow also is used for these treatments but is generally not regulated by the FDA for this use.

With limited exceptions, new products being investigated must go through a thorough FDA review process as investigators prepare to determine the safety and effectiveness of products in well-controlled human studies, called clinical trials. The FDA has reviewed many stem cell products for use in these studies. (You can learn more about clinical trials on the FDA’s website.)

That said, some clinics may inappropriately advertise stem cell clinical trials without submitting to the FDA’s review process. Some clinics also may falsely advertise that FDA review and approval of

the stem cell therapy is unnecessary.

Safety concerns

All medical treatments have benefits and risks. But unproven stem cell therapies can be particularly unsafe.

For instance, attendees at a 2016 FDA public workshop discussed several cases of severe adverse events. One patient became blind due to an injection of stem cells into the eye. Another patient received a spinal cord injection that caused the growth of a spinal tumor.

Other potential safety concerns for unproven treatments include:

• Administration site reactions,

• The ability of cells to move from placement sites and change into inappropriate cell types or multiply,

• Failure of cells to work as expected, and

• The growth of tumors.

Note: Even if stem cells are your own cells, there are still safety risks such as those noted above. In addition, if cells are manipulated after removal, there is a risk of contamination of the cells.

Before trying stem cell therapies

You may be told that because these are your cells, the FDA does not need to review

The best tools for reaching and grabbing

Dear Savvy Senior,

Can you recommend some good reacher-grabber tools for seniors with back or hip problems who need help picking things up off the ground? I bought a cheap one a few months ago that doesn’t work very well. I would like to find one that does.

Bad Back Betty

Dear Betty,

A good “reacher-grabber” is a very practical and popular tool for anyone who struggles with injuries, arthritis or loss of mobility.

By Jim Miller

It works like an extension of your arm allowing you to reach down and pick things up off the ground without bending or stooping over. It can also help with reaching and grabbing things in high overhead places, as well as areas that are difficult to get to.

But with so many different types of reacher-grabbers on the market today, finding a good one that works well for you is not always easy. Depending on your needs, here are some top-rated products to consider:

All-purpose: For retrieving small and medium-sized items, the “Ettore Grip’n Grab” is a top option that can handle most chores.

Inflammation

From page 5

The bottom line

Even though we know that chronic inflammation is closely linked to a number of chronic diseases, quashing inflammation isn’t the only approach, or the best one, in all cases.

Fortunately, you can take measures to

This 34-inch-long tool has a soft comfortable trigger handgrip and a rubberized jaw that’s strong enough to lift objects up to 5 pounds and up to 4 inches wide, yet sensitive enough to pick up something as small as a dime.

The jaw also rotates and locks at 90 degrees for vertical or horizontal use to help you reach things in awkward spaces.

Lightweight: If you want a reacher primarily for retrieving small lightweight items around the house, the “RMS Featherweight the Original Reacher” is a top pick.

Available in 32- and 26-inch lengths, it’s made from ultra-lightweight aluminum, and has a trigger-style handgrip with a serrated jaw that provides a secure grip when lifting objects.

It also has a magnet built into the tip for picking up lightweight metal objects like paperclips, and a small hook (or horn) that aids in retrieving things like clothes, shoes or keys.

It even has a built-in clip on the arm so you can attach it to canes, walkers and wheelchairs. However, because of its super-lightweight design, it doesn’t work well at retrieving heavier items, like

fight or even prevent unhealthy inflammation. Living an “anti-inflammatory life” isn’t always easy. But if you can do it, there’s an added bonus: Measures considered to be anti-inflammatory are generally good for your health, with benefits that reach well beyond reducing inflammation.

© 2022 Harvard University. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Danielle LeClair, NP

canned goods from shelves.

Foldable: For easier storage, the top selling folding grabber is the “Zayad Reacher Grabber Tool,” which is 32 inches long and has a slip-joint in the arm that allows it to easily fold in half.

It also has a soft ergonomic grip with a rubberized, rotating jaw that can lift objects weighing up to three pounds and up to 4 inches wide.

Heavy-duty: For heavier-lifting jobs or for outdoor use, the “Unger Nifty Nabber” is a top choice. Available in 36- and 48-inch lengths, this sturdy tool has a rubber-coated heavy-duty claw that grips small, large and odd-shaped items with ease.

It also has a built-in magnet for picking up small metal objects, an ergonomic

squeeze-grip handle, and can lift 8 pounds.

Where to buy

You can buy reacher-grabbers at many pharmacies, retail, medical equipment and home improvement stores. Because they are specialty items, however, the selection at those locations may be very limited.

Your best bet is to buy one online at Amazon.com, which sells all of the top reacher-grabbers. Most sell for between $10 and $20. Just type the product name in the search bar to find it.

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

MAIL OR EMAIL FOR

For free materials on housing communities, just complete this coupon and mail it — or take a picture and email it -- to the Beacon.

Housing Communities

❏ Brightview Senior Living (see ad on page 7)

❏ Brooke Grove (see ad on page 24)

❏ Charlestown (see ad on page 4)

❏ Homecrest House (see ad on page 9)

❏ Park View at Colonial Landing (see ad on page 15)

❏ Park View at Columbia (see ad on page 15)

❏ Park View at Ellicott City (see ad on page 15)

❏ Park View at Emerson (see ad on page 15)

❏ Residences at Vantage Point (see ad on page 1)

❏ Shriner Court (see ad on page 18)

SAVVY SENIOR

Health Shorts

Your wish is its command

Researchers have demonstrated that individuals who cannot voluntarily move the upper and lower parts of their body can, after extensive training, operate wheelchairs with their minds, even in a natural, cluttered environment.

In the small study, three persons who were unable to use their arms and legs due to spinal injuries were able to move their wheelchair using only their thoughts, which were translated into mechanical commands.

“We show that mutual learning of both the user and the brain-machine interface algorithm are both important for users to successfully operate such wheelchairs,” said José del R. Millán, a researcher at the University of Texas at Austin.

Each of the participants underwent training sessions three times per week for two to five months. The participants wore a skullcap that detected their brain activities through electroencephalography (EEG), which would be converted to mechanical commands for the wheelchairs via a brainmachine interface (BMI) device.

The participants were asked to control the direction of the wheelchair by thinking

about moving their body parts. Specifically, they needed to think about moving both hands to turn left and both feet to turn right.

“We see from the EEG results that the subject has consolidated a skill of modulating different parts of their brains to generate a pattern for ‘go left’ and a different pattern for ‘go right,’” Millán said.

By the end of the training, all participants were able to move their wheelchairs across a cluttered hospital room, to varying degrees of success. They were asked to navigate around obstacles, such as a room divider and hospital beds, which were set up to simulate the real-world environment.

John Schieszer

Diet may help lower hip fracture risk

Increasing intake of protein and drinking regular cups of tea or coffee may be a good way for women to reduce their risk of suffering a hip fracture, according to new research.

Food scientists have found that for women, a 25 gram a day increase in protein was associated with, on average, a 14% reduction in their risk of hip fracture. In a surprise twist, they also discovered that every additional cup of tea or coffee they drank was linked with a 4% reduction in risk.

Writing in the journal Clinical Nutrition, the researchers noted that the protective benefits were greater for women who were underweight, with a 25 gram/day increase in protein reducing their risk by 45%.

The protein could come in any form: meat, dairy or eggs, and for people on a plant-based diet, from beans, nuts or legumes. Four eggs would provide around 25 grams of protein as would a 4-ounce steak or piece of salmon.

The observational study reviewed records from more than 26,000 middleaged women for whom they were able to identify associations between factors in diet and hip fractures, which were identified through hospital records.

Women who are underweight may be more likely to have reduced bone mineral density and muscle mass. Increasing intakes of several foods and nutrients, especially protein, may help reduce hip fracture risk more in underweight women than in healthy or overweight women by helping to establish or restore bone and muscle health. However, the researchers caution that these findings require further confirmation.

Tea and coffee both contain biologically active compounds called polyphenols and phytoestrogens, which may help to maintain bone health.

The data used in the study came from the UK Women’s Cohort Study, which recruited participants between 1995 and 1998. At the time they entered the study, the women ranged between 35 and 69 years of age. Of the 26,318 women involved in the study, 822 cases of hip fracture were identified (3.1% of the participants).

John Schieszer

Avocados linked to heart health

The creamy, pale green flesh of an

Spring Gardens

Theme: Celebrating 40 Years!

Our landscape designers will help us celebrate our 40th anniversary. They may use the number or symbols of the anniversary within their landscapes!

Laundry & Culinary Art Experts

Patric Richardson, host of The Laundry Guy on Discovery+ will offer his best tips & tricks in the laundry room! (March 4-5) Plus pie-art expert Nancy Baker will offer tips & showcase her amazing creations! (March 4)

Orchid Show & Sale

The Maryland Orchid Society will have thousands of orchids on display! You will be amazed at the many varieties of these your home! Final weekend March 10-12!

avocado is full of nutrients closely tied to heart health. Now, a long-term study finds that eating at least two servings per week is linked to a lower risk of cardiovascular disease.

Study co-author Dr. Frank Hu, the Frederick J. Stare Professor of Nutrition and Epidemiology at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health (HSPH), puts this finding in perspective: “This study adds to the evidence to support the benefits of healthy fat sources like avocados to help prevent cardiovascular disease,” he said.

A key take-home message is to substitute avocados for less-healthy foods such as butter, cheese and processed meats.

The study included more than 110,000 people involved in two long-running Harvard studies: the Nurses’ Health Study and the Health Professionals Follow-up Study. Most of the participants were white; they ranged in age from 30 to 75, and were free of heart disease and cancer when the study began.

Researchers assessed the participants’ diets via questionnaires given at the start of the study and then every four years. One question asked how much and how often people ate avocado. A serving was considered a half an avocado or one-half cup, cubed.

During the 30-year follow-up, researchers documented 9,185 heart attacks and 5,290 strokes among the participants. Compared with people who never or rarely ate avocados, those who ate at least two servings each week had a 16% lower risk of cardiovascular disease and a 21% lower risk of experiencing a heart attack or related problem due to coronary artery disease.

Research shows that replacing foods

See HEALTH SHORTS, page 7

Stem cells

From page 4

or approve the treatment. That is not true [in the United States].

If you’re considering treatment in the United States:

• Ask if the FDA has reviewed the treatment. Ask your healthcare provider to confirm this information. Ask for this information before getting treatment — even if the stem cells are your own.

• Request the facts and ask questions if you don’t understand. Make sure you understand the entire process and known

Health shorts

From page 6

high in saturated fat (such as butter, cheese and meat) with those rich in unsaturated fats (such as avocados, nuts and seeds) helps lower blood levels of harmful LDL cholesterol, a key culprit in coronary artery disease.

One serving of avocado also provides up to 20% of the daily recommended di-

BEACON BITS

Mar. 25

risks before you sign.

If you’re considering treatment in another country:

• Learn about regulations that cover products in that country.

• Know that the FDA does not have oversight of treatments done in other countries. The FDA typically has little information about foreign establishments or their stem cell products.

• Be cautious. If you’re considering a stem cell-based product in a country that may not require regulatory review of clinical studies, it may be hard to know if the experimental treatment is reasonably safe.

etary intake of fiber, a nutrient that’s often lacking in the typical American diet. Fiber-rich diets may lower heart disease risk as much as 30%, probably because fiber helps lower not only cholesterol, but also blood pressure and body weight. —Harvard Heart Letter

John Schieszer is an award-winning national journalist and radio and podcast broadcaster of The Medical Minute. He can be reached at medicalminutes@gmail.com.

PETS ON WHEELS AT THE LIBRARY

Enjoy friendly visits with therapy dog(s) from Pets on Wheels at the East Columbia Library. This free event takes place on Sat., March 25, from 1 to 3 p.m. at 6600 Cradlerock Way, Columbia. Drop in. Registration not required.

BEACON BITS

GUIDED

Mar. 18

•

•

AND RELAXATION

Visit the Miller Library for guided meditation and breath work, sound healing vibrations with various bowls, instruments and music, and a mini seated Reiki session by The Healing Flame Collective. This free event takes place on Sat., March 18, from 1 to 3 p.m. at 9421 Frederick Rd., Ellicott City. For more information and to register, visit bit.ly/RelaxAlign or call (410) 313-1950.

STRESS REDUCTION WORKSHOP

In this free, hands-on workshop, you will learn how to be your best self when things around you are at their worst by using stress reduction techniques. This free class takes place on Fri., March 24, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Mobile Library, Forest Ridge Apartments, 5866 Stevens Forest Rd., Columbia. For more information and to register, visit bit.ly/StressReductionClass. Walk-ins welcome.

Mar. 24

Always clearing your throat? What to do

By Marcelo Campos, M.D.

Ahem! Ahem! Ever feel the need to move the mucus that annoyingly sits all the way at the back of your mouth? Most of us do at one time or another. The sensation usually lasts for just a few days when dealing with symptoms of a common cold.

But what happens if throat clearing lingers for weeks or months? That nagging feeling may be uncomfortable for the person who has the problem, and might also bother friends and family who hear the characteristic growling sound.

What causes all that throat clearing? There are many causes, but let’s focus on four of the most common culprits. Keep in mind that throat clearing lasting more than two to three weeks deserves an evaluation from a medical professional.

Post-nasal drip

Post-nasal drip is probably the most common cause of throat clearing. Your nose makes nasal mucus to help clear infections and allergens, or in response to irritants such as cold weather.

A frequently runny nose can be quite disturbing. Just as mucus can drip toward the front of the nose, some mucus may also drip from the back of the nose toward the throat, sometimes getting close to the vocal cords. If the mucus is too thick to swallow, we try to force it out with a loud AHEM!

Solutions: The best solution to this problem is to treat the cause of post-nasal drip. An easy way to do it without medications is to try daily nasal irrigation with a neti pot.

If you notice no improvement, different types of nasal sprays may help. It is best to discuss these options with a health professional, because some sprays may cause your symptoms to worsen. The key is to understand what is causing excess mucus production.

Stomach acid reflux

Another common cause of throat clearing is laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR). Acid in your stomach helps digest food. But excess stomach acid sometimes flows backward up the esophagus that links

throat to stomach. This may splash on the vocal cords or throat, causing irritation and throat clearing.

Not everyone with acid reflux experiences a burning sensation in the throat. Nor does everyone have heartburn, which is a classic sign of a related condition called gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Some people merely feel an urge to clear their throat or have a persistent cough.

Solutions: Eating an anti-reflux diet and not lying down shortly after eating may help in some cases. Often, people have to use medications for several weeks or months to lower stomach acid production.

Certain medications

A common class of heart and blood pressure medicines can also cause throat clearing. These are called ACE inhibitors. The funny thing is that these medications can trigger the urge even after years of people taking them daily without experiencing that symptom.

If that’s the cause, there is an easy fix. The sensation should be completely gone after stopping the medication, although in some cases it can take several weeks to abate.

Note: It is very important to talk to your doctor before stopping a prescribed medi-

cine, so you can switch to something else.

Nerve problems

Damaged nerves responsible for sensation around the throat area is another possible cause. These issues are more difficult to treat, and are usually diagnosed after most of the other possibilities are ruled out. People often have this type of throat clearing for many years.

Solutions: A multidisciplinary team with neurologists and ear, nose and throat doctors (otolaryngologists) may need to investigate the problem. Medicines that change how a person perceives sensation can help.

There are many other reasons for throat clearing. Some people, for instance, just have a tic of frequently clearing their throat. Noticing any clues that point to the root cause can help. Maybe constant throat clearing happens only during spring, pointing toward allergies, or perhaps after drinking coffee, a reason to consider reflux.

An observant eye and jotting notes in a diary may help shine a light on the problem and its possible solutions. Very often, when the cause remains elusive, your primary care doctor may recommend a trial of treatment as a way to diagnose the problem.

© 2022 Harvard University. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Please patronize our advertisers. They keep the Beacon free!

Frozen corn makes a delicious cornbread

By America’s Test Kitchen

Adding whole corn kernels to the usual cornmeal in a cornbread recipe makes the cornbread extra good.

In this recipe, we puree the corn in a blender (along with buttermilk and enough light brown sugar to make the bread pleasantly but not overly sweet), which makes it easy to incorporate while eliminating tough, chewy kernels.

This cornbread is great served with chili and is also delicious on its own. Using frozen corn in the recipe allows you to enjoy this tasty morsel year-round.

Corny Cornbread

Serves 9

Ingredients:

Vegetable oil spray

1½ cups all-purpose flour

1 cup cornmeal

2 teaspoons baking powder

¼ teaspoon baking soda

¾ teaspoon salt

1 cup buttermilk

¾ cup frozen corn

¼ cup packed light brown sugar

2 large eggs

8 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

and cooled

Directions:

1. Adjust oven rack to middle position and heat oven to 400 degrees. Spray an 8-inch square baking pan with vegetable oil spray.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk flour, cornmeal, baking powder, baking soda and salt until combined.

3. Put buttermilk, corn and sugar in a blender. Place lid on top of blender and hold lid firmly in place with a folded dish towel. Process until combined, about 5 seconds.

4. Add eggs to blender, replace lid, and process until well combined, about 5 seconds. Corn lumps will remain.

5. Pour the buttermilk mixture into the bowl with the flour mixture. Use a rubber spatula to stir until mostly combined (leave some streaks of flour). Add melted butter and stir until just combined and there are no streaks of flour. Pour batter into the greased baking pan and smooth surface with spatula.

6. Place baking pan in oven and bake until cornbread is deep golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, 25 to 30 minutes.

7. Remove baking pan from oven and place on a cooling rack. Let cornbread cool

Peace of Mind is Priceless

Pre-planning a funeral is a great gift, to your family and to you: It relieves the pressure on them to imagine what you might have wanted while they deal with grief and loss. Your funeral service will be exactly as you wish. Your family can enjoy peace of mind knowing everything has been arranged. If you choose to pre-fund, the cost is fixed and protected from later price change or inflation.

for 10 minutes.

8. To remove cornbread, use oven mitts to flip the baking pan over onto the cooling rack. Carefully turn cornbread right side up and let cool on rack for 10 more minutes.

9. Transfer cornbread to a cutting board and cut into squares. Serve warm or at room temperature.

For 25 years, home cooks have relied on America’s Test Kitchen for rigorously test-

ed recipes developed by professional test cooks and vetted by 60,000 at-home recipe testers. The family of brands — which includes Cook’s Illustrated, Cook’s Country, and America’s Test Kitchen Kids — offers reliable recipes for cooks of all ages and skill levels. See more online at www.americastestkitchen.com/TCA.

© 2022 America’s Test Kitchen. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Recreation & Parks

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

Speaker Series

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

Famous Howard County Contemporaries: Carrolls, Dorseys, Bannakers and Ellicotts

The mid-18th century into the 19th century was a period of significant growth of industry in the Patapsco River Valley. The Ellicotts convinced local farmers and entrepreneurs to harness the power of the Piedmont’s streams to power merchant grist mills. They built and improved local roads and Andrew Ellicott with the help of Benjamin Bannaker surveyed the Federal Territory (Washington, D.C.). Dr. Charles Carroll and Charles Carroll of Annapolis operated the first locally-owned iron furnace in Baltimore and Caleb Dorsey opened the first iron furnace in what is now Howard County. Join us as we explore the land indentures, company records, Census data and letters of the Carrolls, Dorseys, Bannakers and Ellicotts, which chronicle the impact the Patapsco cradle of industry had on its inhabitants and the natural environment.

55 yrs + Instructor: M. Lee Preston Jr. Classes: 1

RP3506.201 Roger Carter CC Mar 7 10-11:30am Tu $20

Crafts & Fine Arts

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

You Can Draw & Paint with Carol Zika Instructor provides fun and supportive atmosphere for artists who wish to work on self-chosen individual activities among other creatives. Bring your own materials and projects to work with an art educator experienced in a wide variety of media. Personal feedback and guidance given to each student in this open studio format.

55 yrs + Classes: 8 No class 4/7

RP0305.301 E Columbia 50+ Ctr Mar 31 1-3pm

Nature & Environment

• Info: Robinson Nature Center: 410-313-0400.

Sr. Naturalist Program

F $149

Three Centuries of Milling in Simpsonville

In this presentation we explore the primary documents and family photos that highlight the importance of milling to the community as well as the international merchant flour market of the 18th and 19th century. Present day, the remains of the Simpsonville Mill are hidden under the overpass where Cedar Lane crosses the Middle Patuxent River, near the Robinson Nature Center. In the 18th century, Dr. Joshua Warfield built the first known mill there. This presentation teaches the history through the early 20th century owners John Iglehart and his wife Mary.

55 yrs + Instructor: M. Lee Preston Jr. Classes: 1

RP3506.202 Roger Carter CC Mar 9 10-11:30am Th $20

Native American Hunting Strategies and Tool Making Techniques

Join us at the Robinson Nature Center for our Sr. Naturalist Program! The class provides a foundation of understanding on a variety of topics through hands-on exploration and demonstrations in a casual, social atmosphere. The March date concentrates on “critter clues.” Learn about the clues that wildlife leave behind and how to safely cohabitate with Maryland’s native critters.

50 yrs + Days: 1 This is a mobility-friendly event.

RP4831.203 Robinson Nature Ctr Mar 8 3-4:30pm

W $12

Native Americans utilized stone, bone, clay, and wood among other materials to create the necessary tools to adapt to the natural environment. How they made the tools necessary for survival and examples of them highlight this in-depth look at survival strategies dating to over 10,000 years ago. Stone tool making techniques include a demonstration of percussion and pressure flaking as well as examples of key diagnostic stone tools. The presentation includes a variety of pot sherds of ceramic vessels from archaeology sites. Key diagnostic tools and artifacts are passed around for hands-on analysis.

55 yrs + Instructor: M. Lee Preston Jr. Classes: 1

RP3506.203 Gary J. Arthur CC Mar 14 10-11:30am Tu $20

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

• Registration: 410-313-7275, www.howardcountymd.gov/rap, or 7120 Oakland Mills Road, Columbia, MD 21046

The Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery

The National Portrait Gallery was authorized and founded by Congress in 1962 with the mission to acquire and display portraits of “men and women who have made significant contributions to the history, development, and culture of the people of the United States.” Today, the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery continues to narrate the multi-faceted and ever-changing story of America through the individuals who have shaped its culture. Lunch on your own is available at the café. Bus provided.

RP4578.20121 yrs +Mar 179:30am-3:30pmF$69

Philadelphia’s Eastern State Penitentiary: America’s Most Historic Prison

Visit the infamous prison that stands in ruins today as a haunting world of crumbling cellblocks and empty guard towers. Its vaulted, sky-lit cells once held many of America’s most notorious criminals, including “Slick Willie” Sutton and “Scarface” Al Capone. Bus provided.

RP4576.20118 yrs +Mar 39am-4pmF$109

MGM Grand Casino

The MGM Grand Casino at National Harbor is a spectacular $1.4 billion Las Vegas-style luxury facility just south of Washington, D.C. Come spend the day and try your luck at the ultimate casino and gaming experience. Enjoy lunch on your own at one of the many award-winning restaurants nearby. Bus provided.

RP4577.20121 yrs +Mar 109am-4pmF$65

The Odyssey: Cherry Blossom Premiere Lunch Cruise

Enjoy unparalleled views of Washington, D.C. covered in gorgeous cherry blossoms during this two-hour Odyssey lunch cruise with family or in the company of great friends. Delight in upscale, sophisticated dining and entertainment during a mid-day cruise on the Potomac River and take in unparalleled views of D.C.’s greatest landmarks from an all-glass ship. Bus provided.

RP4579.20121 yrs +Mar 249:30am-3pmF$139

Volume 13, No. 3 • March 2023

March is National

Nutrition Month

Plant-based diets provide “Fuel for the Future”

By Carmen Roberts, MS, RD, LDN, Nutritionist, Howard County Office on Aging and Independence

Many Americans are turning to a plant-based diet, which can offer both health and environmental benefits. Plant-based diets are linked to a lower incidence of obesity, heart disease, and hypertension, and are rich in fiber, phytochemicals, vitamins, and minerals, making them the perfect fuel for your body’s future. “Fuel for the Future” is the 2023 theme of National Nutrition Month.

A plant-based diet is potentially lower in calories and saturated fat than a standard American diet, while also providing more dietary fiber and higher amounts of some vitamins and minerals. A well-planned eating pattern is essential in order to obtain all the nutrients needed for good health (eatright.org). Include a variety of protein-rich foods at each meal – tofu, soy, lentils, beans, nuts, and seeds – to preserve muscle strength. To maintain bone health, add three to four servings of calcium-rich foods such as plant-based milks, tofu and fortified juices.

Following a plant-based diet can have numerous health benefits, but it is important to eat a well-balanced variety of foods that includes fresh fruits and vegetables, legumes, whole grains, nuts, and seeds to ensure your nutritional needs are met. It is also a good idea to talk to your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian before making dietary changes.

To schedule a free one-on-one nutrition consultation at a Howard County 50+ Center near you, visit bit.ly/OAInutrition.

Age-Friendly Action Plan: Implementation is underway!

Age-Friendly Howard County work groups are laying the groundwork to make Howard County a livable community for all, working to implement the 80+ recommendations of the Action Plan. We are currently recruiting volunteers for the Outdoor Spaces & Buildings Work Group as well as the Age-Friendly Howard County Advisory Council. Interested?

For more information, please email agefriendly@howardcountymd. gov. To learn more about the Age-Friendly Howard County initiative, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/agefriendly to view the Action Plan, download meeting minutes, and sign up to join a work group!

A message from Howard County Executive Calvin Ball

March is Social Work Month, a time to celebrate the many social workers throughout Howard County who enrich our community and empower our residents to overcome hurdles that prevent them from living life to the fullest. These dedicated professionals embody the 2023 theme, “Social Work Breaks Barriers.”

An estimated 800,000 social workers will join the profession by 2030. Chances are over the course of your lifetime, you, a family member, or a friend will have been helped by one. Social workers play a key role in the work our Department of Community Resources and Services and our Office on Aging and Independence (OAI) do every day. Together, these teams focus on advocating for the rights of at-risk children, youth, adults with disabilities and aging adults, helping to address food insecurity, social isolation or lack of affordable housing, and providing access to behavioral health supports, disability services and social day programs.

Many of our Maryland Access Point (MAP) information specialists are social workers, answering calls daily from older adults and caregivers seeking assistance. Other OAI social workers provide critical case management services through programs such as Senior Care, Medicaid Supports Planning and the Caregiver Support Program. For more information, contact MAP at 410-313-1234.

Living Well Workshop: Nutrition and More (in Korean)

Elkridge 50+ Center

Six Thursdays, March 2 – April 6

10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Now offered in Korean, the Living Well Chronic Disease Self-Management Workshop meets in a small group setting to help participants learn how to better manage ongoing health conditions like diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and high cholesterol. Discussion topics include:

• Pain and fatigue management;

• Dealing with depression;

• Healthy eating and exercise;

• Medication management;

• Working with health care providers; and

• Goal setting and problem solving.

A free box lunch will be provided for registered participants age 60 and over (donations accepted). For more information or to register, contact Minjung Engle, 410-313-6539 or mengle@howardcountymd.gov.

You could well have unclaimed assets. For ways to find out and claim, see below.

Ways to make extra money in retirement

By Kate Ashford

More than 1 in 4 retirees say they’re spending more than they can afford, according to an October 2022 survey by the Employee Benefit Research Institute. With inflation at 6.5% in December, it’s not surprising that savings aren’t going as far as they used to.

But there are ways to bring in extra income without taking on a full-time job. Some part-time gigs — such as tutoring, pet sitting or helping with tax prep — allow retirees to work a few hours at a time, and the extra income can make a big difference.

Here are some ideas to consider.

Pet sitting or dog walking

If you have a fenced-in yard and the ability to care for someone else’s furry family members, offering pet services can be lucrative and flexible. According to data analyzed by e-learning platform Preply, dog walking is the best-paid side hustle by average hourly wage.

“Not to mention, having canine companionship offers many health benefits,” said consumer finance expert Andrea Woroch. “So, pet sitting is a great way to get that without the high costs of owning your own dog.”

Teaching

One of the few perks of the pandemic is

that online teaching and tutoring have flourished. You can set up shop on an online tutoring site like Preply or Wyzant, or an online teaching site such as Udemy.

“Carve out a couple of hours on weeknights to tutor students online,” Woroch said.

If you have the credentials, consider creating a college-level course that you could teach as an adjunct professor.

“I created and teach on veterans’ issues at the Sanford School of Public Policy at Duke University,” said Paul Dillon, owner of Dillon Consulting Services, which helps veterans who want to start a business.

“Whenever the course is offered, I spend about five to 10 hours per week on work related to the course.”

Consulting or freelancing

Retirees often have decades of valuable experience. Taking on project work can help you stay in the game on your own timeline.

“Consulting is a great way to continue staying relevant in your field and offering your insights and advice without having to go back to the office full time,” said Jacques Famy Jr., a managing partner and chief marketing officer for merchant funding firm AdvancePoint Capital.

“You can either offer the services through

a firm, or start your own side-hustle business.”

Filling community needs

Depending on where you live, there may be ample opportunities to pick up side work with your town or city. Your local school may need occasional (or frequent — flu season!) substitute teachers, for instance.

“Many K-12 schools can use the talents of retirees,” said Janet Heller, president of the Michigan College English Association. Heller points to the need for crossing guards, assistant coaches for athletic teams and recess supervisors, among other positions.

Contact your local school district to see what part-time spots may be available.

Hosting guests

Do you have a lot of extra room in your house, and do you live in an area that attracts visitors?

“Rather than letting that freshly renovated basement or spare room go to waste, rent it out on Airbnb,” said Brian DeChesare, founder of Breaking Into Wall Street, a financial modeling training platform. “You get to set your ideal availability, so you’ll never be stuck with guests at inopportune times.”

One tip: If you winter (or summer) elsewhere, consider hiring a property manager to manage rentals of your space.

Taxes/bookkeeping

Money Law & How to find and claim forgotten assets

By Jim Miller

Dear Savvy Senior,

A while back, I read an article about some online tools that can help people search for lost or forgotten money left behind by their deceased relatives, but I’ve misplaced it. Can you help me with this?

My mom, who passed away in December, was always bad about keeping up with her money, so I’m wondering if there was anything she left behind.

Dear Searching,

—Searching

Son

Forgotten or lost money is actually very common in the United States. According to the National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators, there are literally billions of dollars in unclaimed funds sitting in state treasuries and other agencies just waiting to be found.

These unclaimed funds are from accounts that are inactive, or whose owners, or their heirs, cannot be located. Unclaimed funds can include things like lost or forgotten saving or checking accounts, stocks, utility security deposits, tax refunds, life insurance policy proceeds, uncashed dividend checks, matured savings bonds and much more.

This typically happens because of a change of address (the owner moved), a name change (the owner got married or divorced), or the owner died and the estate was unaware of the money, or the heirs could not be located.

By law, companies and financial institutions that can’t find the owner or their next of kin within two to five years must turn the property over to the state, where it’s held indefinitely.

Where (and how) to search

About 10% of all Americans have some unclaimed money out there waiting to be found, so it’s very possible your mother had some too.

To start your search, go to Unclaimed.org, which has links to all state programs that will let you do a state benefits search online for free. Or you can do a multi-state search in 39 states at MissingMoney.com. Be sure to check every state in which your mother lived, worked or did business.

Also, make sure to check under your mom’s maiden name. And if she had a frequently misspelled name, search those misspellings too. Using her first initial and her last name is also encouraged to make sure everything comes up.

Every state can tell you immediately if your mom has some unclaimed money, as

Got tax preparation skills? You can find work assisting with tax returns in the first few months of the year — then take the rest of the year off.

This is a great opportunity for anyone with tax experience, but it’s also possible to take a tax prep course that will qualify you for spots at the big-box tax firms.

The same goes for bookkeeping if you have a finance or accounting background. You can put your previous financial skills to work on a freelance basis, or take a bookkeeping skills course to qualify for project work.

“If you’re looking to do an additional job, building your skills — which might mean getting a certification or taking another course to help make yourself more competitive for a specific role — we certainly encourage our clients to look into doing that,” said Toni Frana, career services manager for FlexJobs.

“For something that requires some knowledge of financial fields, you do need to have a little bit of experience in those areas.”

—AP/NerdWallet

well as how to go about collecting it.

Other places to look

In addition to state treasuries, here are some other resources that can help you look for unclaimed money that may have been overlooked:

Forgotten retirement benefits: To search for lost or forgotten 401(k) funds your mom may have left behind with an old employer, use the National Registry of Unclaimed Retirement Benefits at UnclaimedRetirementBenefits.com.

To search for lost pension benefits, use the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation trusteed plan search tool at PBGC.gov/ search-trusteed-plans.

Lost life insurance: To track down a lost

,

Life insurance has advantages over IRAs

Although Ed Slott (IRAhelp.com) is an expert in IRAs and other retirement plans, he consistently points out that permanent (that is, whole or universal) life insurance has significant advantages for long-term retirement planning. The ramifications of the SECURE Act of 2019 only magnify these advantages in contrast to investing through taxable retirement accounts.

Here are some aspects of permanent life insurance.

Life insurance protects against uncertain future tax rates. The proceeds of permanent life insurance are not taxed. Unless you convert your retirement accounts to Roth accounts, you will eventually pay income taxes on IRA and 401(k) distributions, and it is likely that future tax rates will be higher than current ones.

surance as an expense any more than you would consider investing in a retirement account as an expense. However, investing in permanent life insurance does not have stock market risk associated with it.

THE SAVINGS GAME

By Elliot Raphaelson

Life insurance gives individuals more control over the funds. When Congress wants more income taxes from retirement accounts, it tends to change the regulations in ways that generally are unfavorable to owners of retirement accounts and their beneficiaries.

For example, the recent regulations associated with the SECURE Act force beneficiaries to withdraw funds from traditional IRAs more quickly, resulting in more taxable income for the govern-

ment.

Congress also controls when owners of retirement accounts have to take required minimum distributions (RMDs) from their retirement accounts. With life insurance, owners of permanent policies have control over whether they want to terminate life insurance or initiate loans.

Life insurance incorporates leverage. One dollar of premiums can do the work of many, and the result is guaranteed and tax-free. Especially in the case of the early, unexpected death of the policy holder, life insurance can produce multiples of the initial investment in a retirement account.

Life insurance mitigates market risk. It is true that during long periods in which stock and bond markets perform well, retirement accounts may outperform permanent life insurance policies.

But during periods of high inflation,

which we have seen lately, both stock markets and bond markets can show very poor results. Investors who retired in the last few years are facing uncertain futures, as are their beneficiaries.

Investors are now discovering that bull markets don’t last forever, and there is no guarantee that a traditional 60/40 portfolio of stocks and bonds will always guarantee a financially secure future.

Bottom line: Individuals planning for a financially secure future for themselves and their beneficiaries should consider alternatives to a portfolio exclusively containing stocks and bonds. Permanent life insurance should be considered as a part of retirement planning.

Elliot Raphaelson welcomes your questions and comments at raphelliot@gmail.com.

© 2023 Elliot Raphaelson. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Depending on the size of your retirement account distributions, you could also face increased taxes on Social Security benefits, and even trigger other taxes such as the 3.8% tax on net investment income.

If you systematically withdraw funds from your retirement accounts and purchase permanent life insurance, you avoid the uncertainty of future tax rates, and the value of the life insurance grows tax-free.

Life insurance is an investment, not an expense. You should not consider life in-

Forgotten assets

From page 14

or forgotten life insurance policy, the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, an insurance regulatory support organization, offers a free policy locator service at eapps.naic.org/life-policy-locator.

Unredeemed savings bonds : It’s very common for people to lose track of U.S. saving bonds because they are often given to children as gifts, then forgotten before the bonds reach maturity.

To find out if your mom had any, the U.S. Department of the Treasury provides an online search tool at TreasuryHunt.gov for finding matured, uncashed savings bonds over 30 years old and no longer earning interest.

Federal tax refunds: Each year thousands of refund checks totaling millions of dollars are returned to the IRS by the post office. To look for lost federal tax refund checks, go to IRS.gov/refunds or call 1-800-829-1954.

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

To subscribe, see page 22.

ENTERPRISE RESIDENTIAL

MOST COMMUNITIES ARE 62 AND BETTER

ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY

The Greens at Hammonds Lane: 410-636-1141

Park View at Furnace Branch: 410-761-4150

Park View at Severna Park: 410-544-3411

BALTIMORE CITY

Ednor Apartments I: 410-243-0180

Ednor Apartments II: 410-243-4301

The Greens at Irvington Mews: 410-644-4487

Park Heights Place: 410-578-3445

Park View at Ashland Terrace: 410-276-6440

Park View at Coldspring: 410-542-4400

BALTIMORE COUNTY

Cove Point Apartments I: 410-288-2344

Cove Point Apartments II: 410-288-1660

Evergreen Senior Apartments: 410-780-4888

The Greens at English Consul: 410-789-3000

The Greens at Liberty Road: 410-655-1100

The Greens at Logan Field: 410-288-2000

The Greens at Rolling Road: 410-744-9988

Park View at Catonsville: 410-719-9464

Park View at Dundalk: 410-288-5483 • 55 & Better

Park View at Fullerton: 410-663-0665

Park View at Miramar Landing: 410-391-8375

Park View at Randallstown: 410-655-5673

BALTIMORE COUNTY (CONT.)

Park View at Rosedale: 410-866-1886

Park View at Taylor: 410-663-0363

Park View at Towson: 410-828-7185

Park View at Woodlawn: 410-281-1120

EASTERN SHORE

Park View at Easton: 410-770-3070

HARFORD COUNTY

Park View at Bel Air: 410-893-0064

Park View at Box Hill: 410-515-6115

HOWARD COUNTY

Park View at Colonial Landing: 410-796-4399

Park View at Columbia: 410-381-1118

Park View at Ellicott City: 410-203-9501

Park View at Ellicott City II: 410-203-2096

Park View at Emerson: 301-483-3322

Park View at Snowden River: 410-290-0384

PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY

Park View at Bladensburg: 301-699-9785 • 55 & Better

Park View at Laurel: 301-490-1526

Park View at Laurel II: 301-490-9730

Leisure & Travel Leisure &

St. Lucia’s natural beauty and happy vibe

By Victor Block

Shortly after my wife Fyllis and I arrived on the Caribbean island of St. Lucia, we spotted locals wearing T-shirts with welcoming notes: “Be happy.” “Don’t worry, just party.” “Forget your troubles.”

Not surprisingly, many people go to St. Lucia for its beaches and splendid views of the multi-hued sea, which ranges from light green to turquoise to deep blue. Its 98 miles of sand include gently curving seashores overlooking sweeping bays and small slivers, which are favored by residents of the island.

After our first encounter with Viggie Beach in the capital, Castries [Cas-trees], Fyllis and I made that our go-to respite. It’s lined with palm and almond trees that provide welcome shade.

Several modest snack bars offer food, beverages and opportunities to meet and mingle with St. Lucians. They often comprise the majority of sun seekers there and, when a cruise ship is docked at the nearby port, may be joined by passengers.

Day-trippers, who use their brief stay on St. Lucia to soak up the sun, experience little of the history, culture and traditions of the tiny island, which has a square footage only about three times larger than Washington, D.C.

Our two-week stay provided opportuni-

ties for Fyllis and me to delve into the “real” St. Lucia and discover why some 1.3 million people — about seven times as many as live there — visit the island each year.

For starters, the island’s dramatic topography and lush interior differentiates it from other, flatter Caribbean islands. Greenery lines roadsides and covers ridges that rise into sheer cliffs and mountains. A profusion of flowers transforms the entire setting into a natural botanical garden. Photogenic waterfalls add to the picture-perfect scenery.

Towering over it all are the twin Gros and Petit Pitons, pointy volcanic spires that even in this rugged terrain demand attention and respect. Although it’s possible to hike to the peak of the Pitons, we happily skipped that challenging clamber, preferring to explore the island — which has plenty of other mountains — by car.

Driving can be tricky

On the other hand, I discovered that driving on what passes for roads in St. Lucia presents other challenges.

Because Great Britain has held sway over St. Lucia since 1814, both the cars and roads reflect that influence. That means the steering wheel of automobiles is on the right side, and cars drive in the (narrow) left lane.

Picture yourself navigating a vehicle along a roller coaster track, multiply the number of twists and turns by three, add the largest potholes I’ve had the misfortune to encounter anywhere in the world, and you have an idea of what it’s like to maneuver around the island by car.

Frequent “Hairpin Turn” signs are an understatement, and while most residents are understanding about newcomers, a few tailgaters sped past us as if they were racing at Le Mans. As one hotrodder passed our car, I was just able to make out the rather intimidating message on his bumper sticker before he sped around the next turn in the road: “No gears, no

fears.”

Village hopping

Once Fyllis and I were able to catch our breath after driving to various destinations around the island, we were able to enjoy them.

St. Lucia’s tiny towns, many consisting of colorfully painted houses fronting the sea, each have its own attractions and personality.

Castries is the hub of the island’s economic activity. Its port — rated as one of the best deep-water harbors in the Caribbean — berths both cruise liners and cargo ships.

At the weekly Saturday market, a lively, colorful bazaar, venders sell everything from spices, soaps and souvenirs to homegrown produce, homemade adult beverages and homespun clothing. Food stalls serve local fare at bargain-basement prices.

Soufrière [Soo-free-air], which is French for sulfur, is home to Sulphur Springs, a collapsed volcanic crater where people willing to put up with the pungent scent may take soothing mineral-rich mud baths, which are touted as beneficial for the skin. Also home to the Pitons, Soufrière has stunning beaches and waterfalls.

We drove through a number of small fishing villages, such as Anse la Raye, each with pastel bungalows, brightly painted boats, and fishermen cleaning their catch

and mending nets.

Gros Islet [Groze Eelay] is another quiet fishing hamlet —except on Friday nights. That’s when the weekly “Jump Up” street party provides dinner and dancing, imbibing and liming (Caribbean for partying).

The event was born decades ago, when the proprietor of a rum shop set up a grill outside to attract customers. Neighboring businesses soon followed suit.

The “jumping up” begins in the evening when a crowd munches on grilled fish, chicken and other fare, and strolls through the narrow streets, swinging in time to music blaring from giant speakers. As nonislanders begin to depart, locals arrive to take their place, some arriving by boat to the town dock.

Forts and bunkers

That fun and frivolity contrasts with sites that relate serious chapters of St. Lucia’s history, such as bloody Revolutionary Warera clashes between France and England.

The British built Fort Rodney at the northern tip of the island in 1780, when they were vying with France for control of St. Lucia and other Caribbean islands. Its massive cannon could attack approaching

The island of Saint Lucia offers more dramatic views and lush greenery than many other Caribbean islands. The deep-water harbor of the capital city of Castries welcomes visitors from cruise ships. Tourists enjoy the island’s white-sand beaches, handicraft markets and historical sites.

PHOTO © IRISHKA777 | DREAMSTIME.COM

Read about a visit to Panama for medical treatment on facing page.

Brave Saint Lucia’s back roads (where you drive on the left) to get a closer view of the island’s two famous volcanic peaks, 2,619-foot Gros Piton and 2,461-foot Petit Piton. Those looking for a challenge can hike up the peaks.

PHOTO © F. BAARSSEN | DREAMSTIME.COM

DIANE YORK

A trip to Panama for stem cell treatment

By Diane York

For some of us, it’s a never-ending task to stall the aging process.

Now that I’m in my 60s, my back and hip problems were preventing me from activities like Zumba, hiking and pickleball. I had already been through the gamut of orthopedic consults, one hip replacement and endless physical therapy.

Then a friend of mine told me he had stem cell injections in his knees and within days was able to resume his marathon bike trips. I had read about motivational speaker Tony Robbins’ success with stem cell treatments at the Stem Cell Institute in Panama.

Intrigued, I took a closer look. They use umbilical cord stem cells. Those are not embryonic; they are from umbilical cords delivered at birth, which are typically discarded.

Such cells can travel throughout the body, possibly mending and replacing cells that are old and damaged.

After sending my medical records to the clinic, I learned that they do not treat spinal stenosis (which I have), but would provide treatment for osteoarthritis (which I also have) and for general anti-aging.

While side effects are usually minimal, the cost for this treatment is not. Even though my pocketbook was thin, and it would mean waiting another few years to replace my 2010 Toyota sedan, I wanted to take this chance. My friends thought I was crazy, but I decided to go for it.

Traveling with a friend

My good friend Linda accompanied me. We stayed at the Panama Hilton, where we had spectacular views of the bay and Casco Viejo, the “Old City” founded by the Spanish in 1519. Below our balcony, soft Latin music played as we watched guests enjoying the pool and the balmy weather.

On our first night, we ate in the café by the pool and had piña coladas to celebrate our arrival. A piña colada in the tropics is not quite the same as in the U.S. — fresh pineapple juice and fresh coconut milk (or was it the ambiance?) made them taste fantastic.

We decided to see some of Panama before my treatments began, starting with the Panama Canal. I was stunned by the enormity of the place. Massive tankers and container ships as large as small cities squeezed their way through the locks.

We watched in awe as a huge tanker plowed through, assisted by small trains and tugboats. Some of these ships can carry as many as 24,000 containers, each the size of a railroad car.

We also toured Casco Viejo. The splendid Spanish architecture is still there, some of it ruined, some still as grand as ever. Especially well-preserved were the six churches and cathedrals that looked like they belonged in southern Spain.

Inside the clinic

The next day, I began my treatments at the Stem Cell Institute, located on the 63rd floor of a bank building in Panama City. The modern clinic was populated by friendly English-speaking assistants and nurses.

My doctor was very professional, inquiring about my medical history and problem areas. I asked many questions, all of which she answered patiently.

My first question was, “Of all the conditions you treat here, which have you had the most success with?”

She replied, “With multiple sclerosis, because we can see the changes in lesions. We can see them get smaller.” Also, she added, when they treat rheumatoid arthritis, they can measure and see changes as well. The third area is with the treatment

of autistic children, she said: “We have had many success stories there.”

She added, “We cannot cure these diseases, but we can stop the damage they are doing.”

I asked her how long it took to see the results. She explained that some people have an immediate response, some within months, and some see no improvement at all.

Meeting fellow travelers

Back at the hotel, I met many other people who were there for treatment at the same clinic.

A young man in a wheelchair was there for the third time. He had no feeling below the waist after an accident, and was told he would never recover. After his first infusion, he regained some feeling and movement in his lower body and can now stand with crutches.

An Australian soccer player with multiple injuries in his knee, shoulder and back said he had experienced substantial improvement. A mother with a seven-year-old boy with autism was among several parents of autistic children there who had heard of good results from other parents whose children had been treated there.

My treatment, which consisted of three days of infusions, began. Aside from the needle in my arm, there was no pain. A mild headache a few hours later followed

each infusion. These were cured with a cup of superb Panamanian coffee with cream and sugar.

The one clear positive result I had following the first infusion was the disappearance of pain in the upper jaw/cheek that I had since a case of Covid 10 months earlier. It was never resolved by antibiotics nor by a tooth extraction. Now it was completely gone. Overall, I felt good.

After my treatments, having another two days before we left Panama, we visited the Gamboa Rainforest Reserve. The road that day was swarming with big morpho butterflies (one of 1,500 species in Panama) in iridescent shades of blue. Remarkably lovely, they seemed to dance by the roadside in clusters.

We opted for a tram ride through the forest canopy, spotting villages along the Chagres River, where people still live as they had for hundreds, perhaps thousands, of years.

A large toucan was one of the many birds that watched from a treetop as we sailed by in the tram. Panama is on the migratory flyway and is so narrow that, at certain times, it has more species of birds on it than any other place in the world. The Audubon Society offers birding tours on

St. Lucia

From page 16

enemy ships attempting to enter the harbor. Barracks, bunkers and the remains of the commander’s residence are among reminders of that time.

After seeing the island’s historic sites, I discovered that my personal favorite place was neither a man-made military base nor bunker, but rather a natural attraction.

A tour of the Bay

Marigot Bay combines some of Mother

Nature’s magnificent handiwork, historic tid-

bits, welcoming accommodations and inviting places to dine. The cove is surrounded on three sides by steep, forested hills, and the inland portion forms a protected area known as a hurricane hole, where boats seek refuge from big blows. James Michener called it “The most beautiful bay in the Caribbean.”

The French and British navies fought a number of battles for control of the bay, and it serves today as a peaceful docking place for boats, ranging from small outboard motor craft to massive super-yachts.

For a closer look at Marigot Bay, we hopped on a boat tour. Given its name, it wasn’t surprising that a festive feel manifest-

ed itself shortly after our Spirit of Carnival Party Cruise catamaran left the dock. Passengers sipped and supped, danced to piped music, and oohed, aahed and photographed the superb scenery the boat passed.

Stops along the way included an immersion in the mud baths at Soufrière, a photo op standing beneath a plummeting waterfall, and a warmer experience snorkeling in the tepid Caribbean Sea.

As one guidebook puts it, the island has been “blessed by nature,” and offers “geographic and cultural riches enough to embarrass far bigger nations.” After acclimating to St. Lucia’s roads and absorbing its cheerful, calm atmosphere, we found that to be true.

If you go

Round-trip flights from BWI to St. Lucia

Stem cells

From page 17

Old Pipeline Road annually.

There is also a Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute in Panama, whose 40 staff scientists host more than 1,400 scientific visitors from around the world each year.

Results are positive so far

Will all this expense be worth it? I’m not sure yet.

Overall, since the procedure, I have a lot of energy that I didn’t have before. Climbing stairs is definitely faster; lifting things seems

start at around $684. Accommodations range from budget-priced local B&Bs, to medium-range boutique inns, to luxury allinclusive resorts.

We chose to stay at a furnished villa at Chateau Mygo, perched at the edge of Marigot Bay. Our two-bedroom apartment had an expansive living-dining-kitchen area, outside deck and small plunge pool. Rates begin at $1,200 a week. For more information go to chateaumygo.com.

Its excellent seaside open-air eatery features seafood, such as ample portions of sesame seared tuna or fish and chips (each $28), served with several sides. Guests of Chateau Mygo receive a 15% discount on food and beverages.

For more information about St. Lucia, see stlucia.org.

easier. My 10-month-long jaw infection is gone. It may take months to see other changes.

Did I enjoy Panama? Yes — I would like to return to take a boat ride through the Canal, look for birds on the Old Pipeline Road and watch some Spanish dancing at its delicious restaurants.

This article reflects the author’s personal experiences and is not intended as an endorsement of the Panama Stem Cell Institute or of stem cell treatment in general.

For some warnings about unproven or untested treatments, see “FDA warnings about stem cell therapies” on page 4 of this issue.

Arts & Style

Festival encourages writers of all stripes

By Ana Preger Hart

“If there’s a book that you want to read, but it hasn’t been written yet, then you must write it,” Toni Morrison, the first Black woman to win the Nobel Prize for Literature, said in a 1981 speech.

This may well be true for how CityLit Festival, Baltimore’s annual celebration of literary arts now in its 20th year, came to be.

“Honestly, it was a grassroots kind of thing,” said Carla Du Pree, author and executive director of CityLit Project, the nonprofit that hosts the annual festival. It features a series of readings, classes, conversations and lectures, open to all who are or want to become writers.

“Four book lovers decided that Baltimore needed something like that, and they created a festival. And it was just that — book lovers: people who were invested in words and getting writers together in one place.”

Since 2003, CityLit Festival — which remains free, something Du Pree said is “in this day and age unheard of” — has hosted Pulitzer Prize winners, National Book Award winners, MacArthur “genius grant” Fellows, Guggenheim Fellows and a Carnegie Medal Award winner. These writers visit Baltimore

Columbia

Pro Cantare

46th Season Concerts

in person or virtually to offer constructive criticism, teach master classes, appear on panels and give lectures.

Past authors include Junot Díaz, Mark Doty, Elizabeth Acevedo, Claudia Rankine, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Patricia Smith, Dani Shapiro, Terrance Hayes, Nikole Hannah-Jones, Philip Gourevitch and more.

For new as well as seasoned writers

Despite the big-name authors, the festival is open to all writers. “We always wanted to support writers at every stage of their journey. It didn’t matter if they were emerging or established,” Du Pree said.

“CityLit became this place where writers could experience being a writer and feeling like a writer and being supported as a writer, which they don’t always get a chance to do.”

When Du Pree took over as executive director in the fall of 2016, succeeding founder Gregg Wilhelm, she saw an opportunity “to tap into people who didn’t necessarily call themselves a writer because they weren’t out there publishing, but still were invested in the craft of writing.”

To that end, the festival hosts a master

“IN NATURE’S REALM”

Sunday, March 12, 4 p.m.

A celebration of all the natural world has to offer which provides comfort, healing, and peace!

First Evangelical Lutheran Church

3604 Chatham Road • Ellicott City, MD 21044

Clément Janequin’s “Le chant des oiseaux”

(“Song of the birds”)

Thomas Vautor’s “Sweet Suffolk Owl”

“The Heavens Are Telling the Glory of God” from Joseph Haydn’s The Creation

“The Lark Ascending” by Ralph Vaughan Williams And More!

class and a 90-minute craft intensive, each of which bring graduate-level instruction to a wider audience. This year’s craft intensive is called, “How to visually map out a story.”

Another popular feature is the opportunity to have an excerpt of your writing critiqued in a one-on-one halfhour session.

“Our hope is that writers attend our festival, they go home and feel empowered to do the work, and continue doing it regardless of the

As part of this year’s CityLit Festival, Joy Harjo, the winner of the Bollingen Prize for American Poetry and former Poet Laureate of the United States, will be giving a reading of her poetry and conversing with a local poet on Tuesday, March 28, at Chesapeake Shakespeare Theater.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CITYLIT

Ruth Lilly Poetry Prize winner Patricia Smith will read from her new work at this year’s CityLit Festival.

concerts with the help of his wife, Wonju Kim, who was a violinist with the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra.

Three years later, Malkin died of cancer, and after an interlude of six months, local music lovers and musicians formed the Sundays at Three group. Its first president was the Rev. James Shields, the rector of the Christ Episcopal Church, who suggested they perform in the church sanctuary, which is still their current venue.

In the sanctuary of the two-story church

with a balcony, the musicians and concertgoers enjoy “an abundance of natural light and wonderful acoustics,” according to the organization’s website.

‘Blown away by the quality’

A year after the chamber music series found a home in the church, Glass wandered into a performance.

“I started going to the concerts in 1998,” he said. “I was blown away by the quality of the musicians, even though the audience was quite small, about 50, 60 people.”

At one intermission, a Sundays at Three board member invited audience members

to join the board. Glass, who felt inspired to lend his management experience to help the group, attended a meeting on a whim.

To his dismay, he discovered Sundays at Three was in danger of dissolving mid-season due to a lack of funds. “I took that opportunity to speak up. I suggested that a special subscription offering should be created,” he recalled in an email.

So, Glass and two board members mailed out letters and plastered local bulletin boards with a brochure about the new subscription program. “That effort turned out to be successful. We ended the season with money in the bank,” he said.

When a spot on the board opened up in 2001, Glass agreed to serve as vice president. That term lasted eight years, and as soon as Glass retired from his career, he was able to dedicate even more time to Sundays at Three, serving at times as managing director, treasurer and eventually president.

Glass operates an all-volunteer organization. “The only ones who get paid are the musicians,” he said.

Modest ticket fees, subscriptions

The group’s operating funds, he said, come from the $20 admission price (admission is free for high school students and younger children) and grants from the Maryland and Howard County Arts Councils, as well as private donations.

Subscriptions for the eight- or nine-concert seasons also keep the series going.

BEACON BITS

Mar. 4

Glass noted that for $120, or less than $15 per concert, Sundays at Three subscribers get non-dated, discounted tickets to all the concerts.

They can choose to skip concerts and use their ticket rights to bring friends or relatives to offerings later in the season. He asserted that the flexibility of the subscription program “is unparalleled.”

At first, Sundays at Three attracted fewer than a dozen subscribers; a decade later, its subscriber base increased to more than 100.

At times a deus ex machina drops in to help. Glass noted that a frequent Sundays at Three concertgoer whom he had never met recently left the chamber music group $62,000 in her will.

With her donation, the program decided to present more music written for larger ensembles, not just duos or trios. This season, for instance, they had enough money to pay 38 full-time musicians, including an octet, for its nine concerts.

The organization, which Glass noted was also strongly dependent on the board’s vice president, Mary Ratcliffe, and artistic director, Ronald Mutchnik, is doing well financially, thanks to the recent bequest, and will continue to host concerts with larger ensembles.

Although the pandemic cancelled one season, the concerts launched again in 2022 with a few safety suggestions. The audience is “en-

See CONCERTS, page 21

SHOWTIME SINGERS IN CONCERT

Visit the Miller Library to hear ShowTime Singers perform both a cappella and accompanied singing. Their repertoire includes Broadway and the Silver Screen favorites, exciting jazz, moving blues, familiar pop standards, thrilling patriotic music, and even a little foot-stomping rock and roll. This free concert takes place on Sat., March 4, from 2 to 3 p.m. at 9421 Frederick Rd., Ellicott City. For more information and to register, visit bit.ly/ShowTimeSingers or call (410) 313-1950.

FREE CHAMBER MUSIC CONCERT

Mar. 5

Join the members of the Columbia Orchestra as they perform in small chamber ensembles. The program includes pieces by Shostakovich, Ravel and more. This concert takes place on Sun., March 5, from 3 to 4:30 p.m. at Glenelg United Methodist Church, 13900 Burntwoods Rd., Glenelg, and is free and open to the public. For more information, call (410) 4658777 or visit columbiaorchestra.org.

VOLUNTEER FOR 2023 LIGHT THE NIGHT

Mar. 31

Volunteers are needed for T-shirt and bib distribution and as course guides for the 2023 Light the Night 5K for Suicide Prevention. This event takes place on Fri., March 31, from 5:45 to 8:30 p.m. at Oakland Mills High School’s Track, 9410 Kilimanjaro Rd., Columbia. For more information, contact Julian Henson at jhenson@howardcountymd.gov or (410) 979-2585.

SPRING EGG HUNT AT GJACC

Apr. 1

Help the Gary J. Arthur Community Center celebrate Spring and quality family time. Volunteers will help hide eggs for the hunt and lead carnival-type games for children. Job duties include helping set up and break down the egg hunt, and games such as ring toss, bowling, fish pond, parachute, arts & crafts and more. This event takes place on Sat., April 1, from 9:30 to 11 a.m. at 2400 State Rte. 97, Cooksville. For more information, contact Christine DiGioia at (410) 313-4843.

From page 19

circumstance,” Du Pree said.

“Because writing belongs to everyone. Everyone I know has a story they want told; they want to read something that looks like them or close to their experience.”

Baltimore as a literary hub

Baltimore was home to many literary greats beyond the ubiquitous Edgar Allan Poe.

On a Literary Walking Tour of Mt. Vernon, hosted by Maryland Humanities, you can follow in the footsteps of poets Carl Sandburg and Edna St. Vincent Millay, see the birthplaces of Baltimore natives Upton Sinclair and Emily Post, visit the Peabody Library where novelist John Dos Passos wrote daily, and more.

In addition, Baltimore’s Enoch Pratt

Concerts

From page 20

couraged to wear masks and greet friends with elbow bumps or the like,” Glass said.

Encouraging future musicians

Sundays at Three also sponsors an award program in the area’s 12 public high schools. Howard County music teachers recommend two junior-year students from each school, and the program awards them $100 each at the end of the school year.

The students also attend the Sundays at Three concerts “to get a chance to listen to the pros,” Glass said.

While he noted that the BaltimoreHoward County-D.C. area has “no short-

Free Library hosts a robust Writers LIVE! series year-round featuring conversations with authors across all genres.

Past guests have included Pulitzer Prizewinning poet Jericho Brown, author and national radio personality Garrison Keillor, National Book Award winner Ta-Nehisi Coates, and local journalist and detective fiction novelist Laura Lippman.

Lifting as we climb

This year’s CityLit festival is back in person after two years of virtual programming and with new partnerships with local arts organizations. It will take place over three days in late March.

Its theme is “Lifting as we climb,” the same motto as the National Association of Colored Women, whose founder, Mary Church Terrell, championed racial and gender equality.

The festival’s signature daylong event will be held at the Joseph Meyerhoff Sym-

age of fine professional musicians,” Glass hopes the music programs in the area’s high schools will create more highly tuned-in graduates.

“[The award] serves as a motivating factor — at least we hope it does — and the music teachers view it that way, too. When students see someone get an award, the hope is that it will inspire other students” to practice their instruments or even pursue a career in music.

Maybe one day those students will perform at Sundays at Three.

This season’s last three performances will take place on March 12, April 16 and May 21. For more information about the performers and programs, visit sundaysatthree.org or call (443) 288-3179.

phony Hall on Saturday, March 25.

On Tuesday, March 28, in partnership with Chesapeake Shakespeare Theater, CityLit presents former U.S. Poet Laureate Joy Harjo.

The festival closes on March 31 at Busboys and Poets in Baltimore, featuring Patricia Smith — the Ruth Lilly Poetry Prize for lifetime achievement winner — with her new book, Unshuttered: Poems

CityLit hosts two other annual events in partnership with the City of Baltimore: CityLit Stage, as part of the Baltimore Book Festival, and CityLit Studio during Free Fall Baltimore.

Du Pree believes everyone has a story, and she wants to encourage average citi-

zens to write.

“There’s always a way to reach an older adult who has retired but still has life in them or a story they want to tell. Or that writer who’s got the 9-to-5 job, and after the kids go to sleep, they get out the pen or get on a computer. Or the writer who gets up at 5 o’clock in the morning to do their work.

“Those, to me, are still writers,” Du Pree said. “There’s something about owning the idea that you can claim yourself as a writer because you are actually doing that work. We want to lift those people.”

For more information about the CityLit Project and its programs throughout the year, as well as more details about this year’s CityLit Festival, visit www.citylitproject.org.

GET DIRECTV for $84.99/mo for 24

BEACON BITS

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF ONLINE

Mar. 6

Keep your personal information safe. Chris Hobbs of the Howard County Office on Aging and Independence will share tips for creating strong passwords, managing spam and recognizing scams. This free session will be held at the Central Branch Library, 10375 Little Patuxent Pkwy., Columbia, on Mon., Mar. 6 at 2 p.m. Register by calling (410) 313-7800.

SCAMS AND FRAUDS TO AVOID

Mar. 8

Learn how to avoid common scams and frauds at a free bingo session for mature adults on Wed., March 8, from 10 to 11 a.m. at Slayton House, 10400 Cross Fox Ln., Columbia. All adults are welcome, but registration is required at bit.ly/scambingo. For more information, contact Lisa Kim at (410) 730-3987 or email events@wildelake.org.

GET YOUR GARDEN READY FOR SPRING

Mar. 9

PAGE 22

ANSWERS TO CROSSWORD FROM

ANSWERS TO SCRABBLE

The Longfellow Garden Club of Howard County invites area gardeners to a free garden talk, “Getting your garden ready for spring.” Sponsored by the Howard County Master Gardener Program, the session takes place on Thurs., March 9 at noon at the Hawthorn Center, 6175 Sunny Spring, Columbia. Refreshments will be served. RSVP to (443) 803-4850 or visit LongfellowGardenClubHowardCountyMD.com.

GUIDED HIKE TO VERNAL POOLS

Join Patapsco Heritage Greenway to learn about the importance of Vernal Pools and find some along the Trolley Trail. Meet at 9 a.m. on Sun., March 19, at 1233 Oella Ave. Catonsville. The nonprofit also welcomes volunteers for environmental cleanup days. For more information, visit Patapsco.org or call (410) 696-1328.

Mar. 19

HCC BAIN SENIOR CHOIR

Ongoing

Come sing with the Bain Center seniors. The choir practices on Wednesdays from 9:30 to 11 a.m. at 5470 Ruth Keeton Way, Columbia. Members of the choir pay only Howard Community College’s Consolidated Fee, $28.34 for Maryland residents, per semester. For more information, call (410) 313-7213.

Scrabble answers on p. 21.

Crossword Puzzle

Find

HB323

Across

1. Word on an Oscar statuette

5. Shut the door, emphatically

9. Wardrobe wood

14. After curfew

15. Most food truck purchases

16. Where to see Boston, or the Boston Celtics

17. Shrek or Fiona

18. Part of a chemical equation

19. Like the Miami Marlins’ stadium (usually)

20. Out of the ___

23. Frat party drink dispenser

24. Manufacturer purchased by Nicola Romeo in 1915

25. She never complained about in-laws

26. Photographer Adams

28. End of rapt- and rupt-

29. It moved from DOT to DHS in 2003

32. Out of the ___

36. The center ___ (Columbus’ region)

37. Sports org. exempt from antitrust laws

38. “I ___ hungry, I could eat a horse”

39. Out of the ___

44. Stamp on a bounced check

45. “St. Elsewhere” sets

46. Disarmament meetings

47. Suffix with serpent

48. Gillette twin-blade shaving system

49. Make lace

52. Out of the ___

57. Jesse or Joey on Full House

58. Boy in Barcelona

59. Small buffalo

60. Early anesthetic

61. Meet at ___ time and place

62. Munich mister

63. Covers in tiny particles of pollution

64. Actors Beatty and Bellamy

65. “Nature ___ as little as possible of anything” (Kepler)

Down

1. City square

2. Hole in one on a par-three

3. Creamy beef dish

4. “Scuttlebutt” has four

5. “Brothers” inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2008

6. Flock

7. Greek marketplace

8. Courteney Cox and Lisa Kudrow (but not Jennifer Aniston)

9. Medical student’s practice patient

10. Wear away

11. Show off at a trade show

12. From square one

13. Gamma ray doses

21. Like level 1 of a video game

22. Parade honoree

27. Soda brand whose logo featured the lower half of a woman’s legs

28. Like a tuxedo shirt after the prom

29. Many of the first images in Night of the Living Dead

30. C-level

31. ___ on both your houses

32. Symbol on an outhouse

33. Switch downs (usually)

34. A bit under the weather

35. African songbird

40. Shaq and Wilt the Stilt

41. Able was I ___ saw Elba

42. Corn diseases

43. L-breaking b-guy

47. Typical place for a Bond villain’s lair

48. It is present in absinthe

50. Think the world of

51. Russian rulers

52. Opposite of an ans.

53. “Do ___ others, then run” (Benny Hill)

54. Fifth word of the NATO phonetic alphabet

55. ___ as-needed basis

56. Hawaii’s most populous island

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

CAVEAT EMPTOR!

The Beacon does not knowingly accept obscene, offensive, harmful, or fraudulent advertising. However, we do not investigate any advertisers or their products and cannot accept responsibility for the integrity of either. Respondents to classified advertising should always use caution and their best judgment.

EMPLOYMENT & REAL ESTATE ADS:

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

ASSISTED LIVING REFERRER AGENCY. Lic. ALR0071. Let’s help you find an Assisted Living Home for your loved one. All you have to do is register for our service and leave the rest to us. We are licensed and have been in business for 21years. For more info call Joan: 301792-9571.

WOODRIDGE ASSISTED LIVING PLACE. Bed available for a female resident. Level two care, 65-79 years, services provided incudes adult day program and all medical third party services. Call Joan for more information 301792-9571.

VENDOR MEMBERS GROUP annually organizes multiple craft shows in Baltimore County, MD. Shop with us! For more information: www.vendormembersgroup.com

PROTECT YOUR INCOME WITH LIFE INSURANCE. Protect your legacy, prevent unexpected expenses and prolong your life. Get insured today. I will get you coverage call 202-315-6333.

WESLEY FINANCIAL GROUP, LLC Timeshare Cancellation Experts. Over $50,000,000 in timeshare debt and fees cancelled in 2019. Get free informational package and learn how to get rid of your timeshare! Free consultations. Over 450 positive reviews. Call 855-626-8703.

UP TO $15,000.00 OF GUARANTEED LIFE INSURANCE! No medical exam or health questions. Cash to help pay funeral and other final expenses. Call Physicians Life Insurance Company866-212-1092 or visit www.Life55plus.info/beacon

WHEELCHAIR VAN 2007 Dodge Caravan SE with only 70,500+ miles. Side entry automatic ramp. Lovingly cared for by third owner. Regularly serviced. Front passenger seat may be removed so wheelchair can be next to driver. Special roadside assistance plan available. $19,990. Contact Hank at 301-980-1991

FOUR CEMETERY PLOTS for sale in Meadowridge Cemetery in Howard County. Great location, close to road, across from pond. Part of an estate. Price negotiable. Contact Information, bobhals@gmail.com 443-827-1562

PREPARE FOR POWER OUTAGES

TODAY with a GENERAC home standby generator $0 Money Down + Low Monthly Payment Options. Request a FREE Quote. Call now before the next power outage: 1-866-964-8106.

PUT ON YOUR TV EARS and hear TV with unmatched clarity. TV Ears Original were originally $129.95 - NOW WITH THIS SPECIAL OFFER are only $59.95 with code MCB59! Call 1-833-934-0843.

VIVINT. SMART SECURITY. Professionally installed. One connected system for total peace of mind. FREE professional installation! Four FREE months of monitoring! Call now to customize your system. 1-844-758-7925.

Health

ARE YOU ONE OF THE MILLIONS OF PEOPLE who suffer from chronic pain? Sign up now for my Conquer Pain Naturally Masterclass to learn natural methods for joint and muscle relief! A Free Report is available too at www.restored-healthsolutions.com

DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 350 plus procedures. Real dental insurance - NOT just a discount plan. Do not wait! Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details!

1-844-366-1003 www.dental50plus.com/320 #6258.

MOBILEHELP, America’s Premier Mobile Medical Alert System. Whether You’re Home or Away. For Safety and Peace of Mind. No Long Term Contracts! Free Brochure! Call Today! 1-240-650-9189.

STROKE AND CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE are leading causes of death, according to the American Heart Association. Screenings can provide peace of mind or early detection! Contact Life Line Screening to schedule your screening. Special offer - 5 screenings for just $149. Call 1-844-485-7035.

PORTABLE OXYGEN CONCENTRATOR

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

THE GENERAC PWRCELL, a solar plus battery storage system. SAVE money, reduce your reliance on the grid, prepare for power outages and power your home. Full installation services available. $0 Down Financing Option. Request a FREE, no obligation, quote today. Call 1-866944-0699

HOW TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED AD

All classified ads must be submitted and paid for online, via our website, www.thebeaconnewspapers.com/classifieds

Deadlines and Payments: To appear in the next issue, your ad text and payment must be entered by the 5th of the preceding month (for Baltimore and Howard County editions); by the 20th (for Washington edition).

Cost will be based on the number of characters and spaces in your ad: • $25 for 1-250

• $35 for 251-500. • $50 for 501-750 (maximum length). The website will calculate this for you. Note: Maryland contractors must provide a valid MHIC number. • Each real estate listing qualifies as one ad. • All ads are subject to publisher’s discretion. Payment will be refunded if unacceptable for any reason.

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

Home/Handyman Services

SAFE STEP. North America’s #1 Walk-In Tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-theline installation and service. Now featuring our FREE shower package and $1600 Off for a limited time! Call today! Financing available. Call Safe Step 1-866-478-2363.

WE CAN FIX ANYTHING. 3 generations of builders, cabinet makers, remodelers and crafters completing kitchens, baths and additions got us to this point. If it’s broken, disassembled, ugly, out of date, needs replacement or renewal: please call Bob at R. W. Wood Improvements 410.294.2800, MHIC 92322. If it’s electronics or computers, we suggest you contact your grandchildren.

THE BATHROOM OF YOUR DREAMS for as little as $149/month! BCI Bath & Shower. Many options available. Quality materials & professional installation. Senior & Military Discounts Available. Limited Time Offer - FREE virtual in-home consultation now and SAVE 15%! Call Today! 1-855-653-0087.

DON’T LET THE STAIRS LIMIT YOUR MOBILITY! Discover the ideal solution for anyone who struggles on the stairs, is concerned about a fall or wants to regain access to their entire home. Call AmeriGlide today! 1866-365-5170.

CIRCLE OF LIFE ESTATE PLANNING

WORKBOOK (188 pages) removes the stress and anxiety of Will and Trust preparation. All you need to do is to fill in the blanks that relate to you. When completed, you will have a complete inventory of your estate. Order by credit card to: Workbook, PO BOX 169, Kensington, MD 20895. All major credit cards accepted. (301)565-2917. Cost: $59.99 plus tax, s/h free

APPLYING FOR SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY or Appealing a Denied Claim? Call Bill Gordon & Assoc. Our case managers simplify the process & work hard to help with your case. Call 1-866-970-0779 FREE Consultation. Local Attorneys Nationwide [Mail: 2420 N St NW, Washington DC. Office: Broward Co. FL (TX/NM Bar.)]

CONSUMER CELLULAR. Switch and save up to $250/year on your talk, text and data. No contract and no hidden fees. Unlimited talk and text with flexible data plans. Premium nationwide coverage. 100% U.S. based customer service. Limited time offer - get $50 off on any new account. Use code GIFT50. For more information, call 1-833-742-1303

I WILL BUY YOUR UNWANTED REAL ESTATE for CASH! AS IS! No repairs, inspections and no Realtors Fees or Closing Fees! No need to clean the house out, take what you want and leave the rest! You can have your MONEY in 14 DAYS! CALL NEAL for your cash offer now! 410-419-1289.

WANT TO STAY SAFE AND COMFORTABLE IN YOUR HOME as you age? Let a Certified Aging-In-Place Specialist assess your home to determine the best ways to modify it so that you may continue your independence and thrive where you live. Allyson 301-996-6199 HOUSEKEEPER WANTED for older malepart time. For info call 410 242 2249.

ORGANIZE, DOWNSIZE, DECLUTTER & MOVE MANAGEMENT. Feeling overwhelmed by paperwork, clutter or the thought of moving? Ask For Help! Maryland Senior Concierge Services - call Christine 301.452.5730 or email ccallahan@mdseniorhelp.com. Asking for help is the first step to true Independence.

DISH NETWORK. $64.99 for 190 Channels! Blazing Fast Internet, $19.99/mo. (where available.) Switch & Get a FREE $100 Visa Gift Card. FREE Voice Remote. FREE HD DVR. FREE Streaming on ALL Devices. Call today! 1-844-560-5837.

LIV S THISY VE W V YEAR WEL WELL

L LI

E eju e r ienc Exper

ad g he in uvenat

y of L alit it he v p

s ellne oe w t to- dL ace s and embr e

E

edo fr - ate St

t h , c vement m of mo a ehabilit t r ar - he tional indepen Except

-of

Sim

g in an e in ndent liv

s a pire t ins ha ion t t

a Dedic

i y D Simp ook t Br a LIFE® g l lf

. illag i ement V

y • ommunit e c iv t or

ssis s • A storee and r

-discov - e and se hoic

ic and suppo nerget fferent ire et e R ov e Gr k r y su e memor and s

e a iv vat y • Inno er

t t nur ha g t in ed liv st

af t ppor sure

hs a t g pa in alk a ssio ompa ed and c illed nu k ional s xcept

• W

• Ex because ...

te ommit aff c t e s onat

b rroun t su t wh

an e • Me ar g c ursin a

rammin og hment pr a 6 301i y Spr y lad 18100 S Sand f b 8928 637, MD 20860 ing oad hool R c de S www .org . .bgw. lo Independen t t a

LIFE® g • n