March 2024 | Baltimore Beacon

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United by Birmingham childhoods

Coming together decades later Kids in Birmingham 1963 was founded

by Washington, D.C. resident Ann Jimerson, who was deeply affected by her Alabama childhood, too.

She was also 12 years old and living in Birmingham when she learned that the Ku Klux Klan church bombing had killed four

PHOTO COURTESY OF UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND BALTIMORE COUNTY

By Glenda C. Booth When Freeman Hrabowski was 12 years old, in 1963, he was so inspired by Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. that he not only marched in the Children’s Crusade for civil rights in Birmingham, Alabama, for three days, but he went to jail for five.

When Hrabowski reached the steps of city hall, ardent segregationist and Commissioner of Public Safety Bull Connor spat in his face, picked him up and threw him into the police wagon.

A math whiz, Hrabowski grew up to become president of the University of Maryland Baltimore County. His childhood experiences “taught me that tomorrow can be better than today — only if I am prepared to be part of the solution,” he said in an interview with the Beacon.

Amos Townsend was also 12 years old and living in Birmingham on the day of the bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church, which killed four girls. His family was attending a service at Saint Joseph Baptist Church a dozen blocks away.

Townsend instantly felt “a sense of loss over no longer having a place that could be considered a sanctuar y. Not even churches were safe spaces anymore for a kid just trying to go to Sunday school,” he said.

Both Townsend and Hrabowski are members of a group called Kids in Birmingham 1963, a meeting place for people who grew up in that city in the tumultuous 60s.

Established a decade ago, the nonprofit provides an online and in-person platform for people to connect and tell their stories.

At one event recalling the day of the church bombing, Townsend was moved to tears.

“I had never had that release before,” said Townsend, who now lives in Burtonsville, Maryland. “I had so suppressed those memories that they all came back to me 40-plus years later.”

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LEISURE & TRAVEL

Warm up on Barbados’ beaches but stay for the fishing villages and interesting history; plus, truffle hunting on a Virginia farm, and new trends in public transit at major U.S. cities page 16

Freeman Hrabowski, longtime president of UMBC, grew up in Birmingham, Alabama.

He was sent to jail at age 12 for marching there in the 1963 Children’s Crusade protesting segregation. Today, Hrabowski and others are members of the group Kids in Birmingham 1963, which works to educate today’s children about the civil rights struggles of the 1960s.

African American girls, ages 14 and 11, who were in a basement restroom.

Founded in 1873, the 16th Street Baptist Church was the oldest Black Baptist church in Birmingham. In 1963, civil rights activists held six meetings and 12 workshops in the church to train people for voting rights sit-ins, boycotts and marches — events that made the church a target for white supremacists opposed to the movement.

Jimerson’s father, a Baptist minister at a nearby church, scooped some of the stained-glass pieces off the ground and brought them home in a box.

“He and Mom let us peer into that box and carefully handle the sharp, dusty pieces,” Jimerson recalled in an interview with the Beacon.

The shards had a prominent place on a hutch in her family’s home until Jimerson in 2013 donated them to the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of African American History and Culture.

Last year marked the 60th anniversary of the “Year of Birmingham,” the year that King wrote his historic “Letter from a Birmingham Jail” on April 16.

See HISTORY, page 20

ARTS & STYLE

Baltimore author caps a lifetime of writing with a biography of an American heroine page 19

FITNESS & HEALTH k Small ways to help the planet k Tips to rekindle romance

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LAW & MONEY 12 k Best meal delivery companies k New scams to watch out for ADVERTISER DIRECTORY

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MARCH 2024 — BALTIMORE BEACON

Take note of hallucinations Funny how the mind works. Well, at subconscious mind was eager for more music, wherever it could find it. least it’s funny how my mind works.

As long-time readers know, A few years ago, as my viI returned to my childhood sion began to change with hobby of playing the piano age, I started to “see things” about six years ago. Now, not that weren’t there. only do I try to practice at One day, I was lying on a least a little every day, I have physical therapist’s table also returned to composing when I noticed that the tiny random holes in the ceiling piano music, something else I tiles above me started to look did as a schoolboy. like sheet music.

Three years ago — shortly I saw what appeared to be after those subliminal music staffs with notes, chords, al- FROM THE messages began — I took a most a symphonic score. But PUBLISHER seven-week composing “sabwhen I concentrated on it, I By Stuart P. Rosenthal batical” from my Beacon ducouldn’t actually make out ties to see if I perhaps had what the music would sound like. some music inside of me wanting to get The notes seemed haphazard, with out. chords that would be impossible to really As you may recall from my columns at play. I shook my head and tried to refocus, the time, I was also wondering if this could but the image refused to go away until I become a new “calling” for me, when (if?) I decide to retire. got up off the table.

I was quite pleased with the results from After that, I began to have similar experiences whenever in a position where I that break. I wrote three piano pieces that found it difficult to focus clearly — I liked, and set up my own music website whether from being too far away, as with (stuartsmelodies.com) so people could the ceiling, or too close, as with the enam- hear them and download the sheet music if they wanted to. eled tiles on a bathroom wall.

Fast forward a couple of years, and once Anyway, I began to get the message: My

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The Beacon is a monthly newspaper dedicated to inform, serve, and entertain the citizens of the Greater Baltimore area, and is privately owned. Other editions serve Howard County, Md. 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.

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again I was seeing visions of music just about everywhere I looked. I eventually got the message that it was time for another sabbatical.

I have just returned from that one (a shorter one, alas), and am pleased to report that I found this break also to be productive.

While my compositions from the past (including the earlier sabbatical) tended to be improvisational in nature, I have long wondered if I would be able to compose songs that have a catchy tune. You know, something people might actually want to sing in the shower.

I had never tried composing melodies to sing before, but I wanted to see what I could come up with. Well, my showers have never been the same! Nor my bedtimes, walks, or any other time when I’m not actively doing something else. I keep hearing tunes in my head.

Because I feel the world has become a substantially scarier place over the last six months, my new songs aren’t quite as upbeat and catchy as I might have hoped. But they reflect my unspoken feelings about things right now.

I am not a poet, so I wrote my melodies to accompany passages from the Book of Psalms and other liturgy (from the Jewish prayer service) that speak to me forcefully today. Yes, they’re all in Hebrew, too. So, I don’t expect many people to start singing my songs during their showers.

But I have been pleased by the response from good friends with whom I’ve shared some of the melodies.

I would love to be a singer/songwriter, but unfortunately, my voice is not up to the

task. Believe me, I tried! But the recordings were bad. Really bad.

I asked a few acquaintances who have good voices if they would help me record some of the songs. No takers. People have busy lives!

So, I looked online: Was there perhaps a service that would help people in my situation? Was there ever!

There must be legions of would-be songwriters like me out there. Numerous websites offer a variety of “singer voices” that can be used to record one’s songs in English, Chinese, Japanese or Spanish.

Male voices, female voices, in pop, rap or romantic styles — even voices that sound like famous singers (and ex-presidents) are readily available.

Unfortunately for me, none of those voices “know” Hebrew. So, I turned to another set of websites I came across in my searches: services that use AI (artificial intelligence) to synthesize singer voices in any language. What a world!

With the help of a very patient and capable friend, I was able to “produce” one of my songs in Hebrew. Its title is “Rachamecha.” If you’d like to hear it, visit this webpage: bit.ly/Rachamecha. You’ll be able to read the song’s translation there, too.

Feel free to post your comments online, or send them to me via the Beacon.

I hope to have more of my songs online in the not-too-distant future. Stay tuned, if you’re so inclined.

And I advise you to stay tuned in to your own hallucinations, as well. You never know where they might take you.

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

Mail your Letter to the Editor to The Beacon, P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915, or email info@thebeaconnewspapers.com.

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

Dear Editor: In response to your “As I see it” column about older people staying in their homes (February Beacon), there are many other reasons why we stay other than sentimentality: Senior housing in our area has long waiting lists.

For people who still drive, giving up the convenience of a garage or driveway for outdoor parking or a dangerous underground garage is a major consideration.

Grown children, especially with grandchildren, are less likely to visit if they have to stay in a hotel.

It is an arduous task to change your address for Social Security and other income you receive, financial holdings, doctors, and friends.

You need to find a way to dispose of much of your furniture and other belongings.

Some seniors have amassed valuable collections that are precious to them but they don’t know how to sell or donate them.

You move away from your local friends and social and religious groups.

Some buildings do not allow pets, especially large dogs.

Many seniors do not have children who are willing or able to assist them with all of these tasks or they don’t want to burden their children who are already overwhelmed with their own lives.

This might be a good subject for another article.

You might want to visit a local senior center or housing complex and interview seniors who would be happy to enlighten you on any topic you plan to write about.

Rita Grotsky Via email

Makes a great gift!

BALTIMORE BEACON — MARCH 2024

Health Fitness &

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HOPE FOR ALZHEIMER’S New drugs may penetrate the brain faster when followed with ultrasound SHAKE IT OFF Most of the time a tremor in both hands is nothing to worry about HEALTHY GUT, HEALTHY HEART Recommendations for a healthy diet are particularly helpful to heart health HAIR LOSS MYTHS Medication, stress and aging can cause hair loss; not lack of protein

Ways to improve your piece of the planet

By Leanne Italie The fight against climate change requires the mass cooperation of industries, companies, governments and communities, but individuals also have a role to play.

Little things make a difference and feel good, too. Here are a few small, easily achievable ways to lead more climatefriendly lives:

Make the most of groceries Food waste is an enormous environmental concern, yet it’s often ignored in the conversation about how to live more sustainably, said Lauren Phillips, associate editorial director for news at Better Homes & Gardens.

“Once you start noticing how much food you throw out, it’s a simple shift to start thinking about how you can use your excess groceries before they go bad,” she said.

Plan grocery shopping more strategically so you have little to no excess. Buy only what you need, even if BOGO is on!

Other steps: Commit to eating all your leftovers. Keep a sharp eye on expiration

dates so you use foods in time. Buy locally grown, in-season fruits and vegetables. Invest in glass or bamboo containers for food storage. Freeze things.

Real Simple’s senior home editor, Hannah Baker, recommends beeswax wraps instead of plastic to seal leftovers when a container doesn’t work.

And then there’s composting food scraps.

“This one can be easy, so long as you consistently take your compost out and wash the bucket,” Baker said. No meat or dairy products in the compost pile, she cautioned.

Is takeout your routine? Jono Waks, in Brooklyn requests that his orders come with no plastic utensils.

“If they give it to me, I go back and make them take it out of the bag. The Thai place down the block thinks I’m a hoot because I go back with the plastic,” he said.

How do small steps like these make him feel?

“Like a lonely drop of water in a great big ocean of environmental despair, but I can only control what I can control,” Waks said.

Buy quality; it lasts Try to buy high-quality items rather than cheap throwaways.

“Considering longevity in the products you purchase will ultimately cut down on how much you buy and throw away over time,” Phillips said.

That applies to pretty much everything shoppable: furniture, home goods, clothes, appliances, shoes. When you calculate cost per wear or cost per use, the ultimate financial burden is much lower than the money spent replacing a cheap vacuum cleaner, say, after a year or two.

Or what about shopping thrift? Finds are everywhere.

Check out antique and second hand stores, and also see whether you can give a second life to any treasures tucked away at home.

Walk, bike, bus (if you’re able) If ditching the car or Uber sounds daunting, pledge to do it for trips of a mile or less to get started. If four wheels are the only way to go, there’s always a good old-fashioned carpool. Or simply try to combine errands to make fewer trips.

Break out the cloth napkins all week long That goes for cloth towels rather than paper ones, too.

“I switched to cheery reusable cloth napkins,” said Rachel Cooper in Chicago. “Not only does it elevate every meal and brighten up my tablescape, but it saves paper.”

While you’re at it, skip the plastic bag liners for small trash cans that aren’t used for messy stuff, like those in the bedroom or office.

Speaking of garbage, why not make a habit of picking up some after your daily run or walk?

When it comes to cleaning, look for eco-friendly cleaning products, including concentrates. Some brands offer the chance to refill bottles, instead of buying new ones. Concentrates contain less water than non-concentrates, so take less energy to ship. Instead of a heavy plastic jug of liquid detergent, buy laundry detergent sheets instead.

See GREEN TIPS, page 4

Make your partner fall in love all over again

By Kimberly Blaker It likely comes as no surprise that keeping the romance alive in a relationship requires effort. But when women feel their romantic relationships becoming stagnant, they often blame the man in their life for not being romantic enough. Yet 44% of men say it bothers them “a lot” that their wife or girlfriend isn’t more romantic, according to a study of 80,000 participants by Chrisanna Northrup.

It turns out that both men and women crave romance. Try the following to reap the rewards of your partner falling in love with you all over again.

Be spontaneous. Routine and spontaneity are opposites. Routine, which typically sets in once a relationship is established, often leads to monotony. But what keeps relationships alive early on is the excitement of spontaneity, which lends itself to discovery about each other and new things. When couples lose their spontaneity, life becomes routine and dull.

Practice spontaneity. Do things on a

whim with your partner to awaken the feelings you both felt when your relationship first blossomed.

Write a love note. It doesn’t have to be lengthy, although it could be. Just a simple “I love you” or “I can’t wait to spend time with you this weekend” placed in your partner’s lunch box is sure to make their day. If you’re good with words, write a poem. If not, borrow one and leave it on your lover’s pillow.

Laugh at your mate’s jokes and also with your partner. No matter how corny your partner’s jokes, genuinely laugh when they’re trying to be funny, even if you have to laugh because the joke is so corny. Not only will your laughter boost your spouse’s ego, but it’s good for your relationship, too.

There’s more: Numerous studies, including a 2015 study by Laura E. Kurtz in the Personal Relationships journal, have found that shared laughter brings couples closer together. So watch sitcoms, go to the comedy club, hang out with other fun

couples, or be silly together.

Physical affection. This is so simple and can be done anytime and any place.

Hold hands when you’re watching TV or out and about. Give a kiss on the cheek or walk over and give a shoulder massage.

Pat your partner on the butt, or walk up from behind and wrap your arms around him or her. There are so many ways and opportunities to show your affection.

Make your partner’s favorite dinner. The adage goes that a way to a man’s heart is through his stomach. The same can be true for women. Go all out and prepare their favorite dinner and dessert.

Don’t forget the candles, wine and soft music for a romantic ambiance.

Take your mate on a date. Make a plan for something you both enjoy but haven’t done in a while. Better yet, plan something special your spouse particularly enjoys that you haven’t been keen to do in the past. Then, make the most of it, even if it isn’t your favorite activity, and let your partner know how much you enjoy seeing

him or her happy and spending time together.

Need some ideas? Go to a sporting event, concert or play; visit a museum; or go golfing or bowling.

Pay a compliment. Everyone loves a compliment, especially from a significant other. Tell him how his blue shirt brings out his dreamy, blue eyes. Compliment her new haircut. Or let him know how much you appreciate his handyman skills.

Look for genuine reasons to compliment your partner often.

Initiate sex. If your partner is the primary initiator of sex, your initiating it can go a long way toward bringing back the romance. In fact, men need to feel desired as much as women do, according to a survey conducted by Sarah Hunter Murray, Ph.D. So practice coming on to your lover more often.

Give a gift. Men don’t place as much importance on receiving gifts as women.

See COUPLES ADVICE, page 5

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MARCH 2024 — BALTIMORE BEACON

Drugs may reach brain faster with ultrasound

By Lauran Neergaard Scientists have found a way to help Alzheimer’s drugs seep inside the brain faster — by temporarily breaching its protective shield.

The novel experiment was a first attempt in just three patients. But in spots in the brain where the new technology took aim, it enhanced the removal of Alzheimer’s trademark brain-clogging plaque, researchers reported last month.

“Our goal is to give patients a head start” by boosting some new Alzheimer’s

treatments that take a long time to work, said Dr. Ali Rezai of West Virginia University’s Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute, who led the study.

At issue is what’s called the blood-brain barrier, a protective lining in blood vessels that prevents germs and other damaging substances from leaching into the brain from the bloodstream.

But it also can block dr ugs for Alzheimer’s, tumors and other neurologic diseases, requiring higher doses for longer periods for enough medication to

reach their target inside the brain.

Now scientists are using a technology called focused ultrasound to jiggle temporary openings in that shield. They inject microscopic bubbles into the bloodstream. Next, they beam sound waves through a helmet-like device to a precise brain area. The pulses of energy vibrate the microbubbles, which loosen gaps in the barrier enough for medications to slip in.

Prior small studies have found the technology can safely poke tiny holes that seal

up in 48 hours. Now, Rezai’s team has gone a step further — administering an Alzheimer’s drug at the same time.

Some new Alzheimer’s drugs, on the market or in the pipeline, promise to modestly slow the worsening of the mind-robbing disease. They’re designed to clear away a sticky protein called beta-amyloid that builds up in certain brain regions. But they require IV infusions every few weeks for at least 18 months.

Green tips

Dunk for more effective and less harmful protection that’s a lot cheaper, too. [Ed. Note: Baltimore City and County restrict the use of certain pesticides on private lawns.]

Other tips for more sustainable gardening include catching rainwater at your drainpipes or in buckets for the garden. Inside, capture shower water for houseplants.

puter and cable boxes when they’re not in use.

Or unplug them completely. They’re sucking a little bit of energy if they remain lit up when powered down.

Chargers for cell phones, tablets and other cordless devices do the same when they’re not in use but remain plugged in.

Other energy-saving ideas from the NRDC: • Buy smarter bulbs. An LED light bulb uses up to 85% less energy to deliver the same amount of light as incandescents.

• Don’t run the dishwasher when it’s not full.

• Set your washing machine to the appropriate water level and wash all but

your dirtiest clothes in cold water.

• Air-dry clothing when possible. If you can’t quit your dryer, ditch the dryer sheets, Baker said.

“Dr yer sheets can increase dr ying time, which wastes energy, plus they aren’t reusable, and you can go through them super quick,” she said. “Instead, try using reusable wool dryer balls.”

• Set your refrigerator temperature between 28 and 42 degrees Fahrenheit and your freezer between 0 and 5. Make sure both are sealed tightly. Try the dollar bill test on the doors: If the bill shut into the door easily slides out, replace the gaskets. © 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.

From page 3

Help the birds and the bees Doug Tallamy, who teaches ecology at the University of Delaware in Newark, urges gardeners to plant more native plants to feed and shelter beneficial wildlife like pollinators.

Choose groundcovers and plantings that are caterpillar-friendly, Tallamy advised, calling caterpillars key in the local food web. Pollinator-friendly garden patches can be as small as containers on a balcony, he said.

Lastly, he said, don’t use weed killers and quit fogging for mosquitos — he suggests a natural larvicide like Mosquito

Reduce the juice at home The National Resources Defense Council, an environmental action nonprofit, has lots of easy ideas for saving electricity at home.

Start with turning things off. Don’t just hit the light switch when you leave a room; completely turn off the TV, com-

See ULTRASOUND, page 5

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From page 3 Still, it can be a very romantic and meaningful gesture when done out of the blue, regardless of gender. Look for something the other will love, such as tickets to a game, a favorite movie on DVD, or something useful for their favorite hobby or sporting activity.

Show your unconditional love.

Women often fall for and marry men with the idea they can “fix him.” Over time, this results in constant badgering to change, wreaking havoc on romantic feelings. Learn to accept your partner’s shortcomings and love them unconditionally. You’ll likely see your partner’s romantic side shine through again.

Ultrasound From page 4 “Why not try to clear the plaques within a few months?” Rezai said, his rationale for the proof-of-concept study.

Small study yielded ‘compelling data’ His team gave three patients with mild Alzheimer’s monthly doses of one such drug, Aduhelm, for six months. Right after each IV, researchers aimed the focused ultrasound on a specific amyloid-clogged part of each patient’s brain, opening the blood-brain barrier so more of that day’s dose might enter that spot.

PET scans show patients’ amyloid levels before and after six months of medication.

There was about 32% greater plaque reduction in spots where the blood-brain barrier was breached compared to the same region on the brain’s opposite side, researchers reported in the New England Journal of Medicine.

This pilot study is elegant but too tiny to

Spoon. Cuddle before falling asleep and when you wake up. It’ll make you both happier and improve your relationship because of the endorphins it releases, particularly oxytocin, the love hormone.

Say ‘I love you’ in a deep and meaningful way. During a romantic moment, say something you really mean, such as, “You’re my soul mate,” “I want to be with you forever,” “You make my life whole,” or whatever you honestly feel for your mate.

Give a massage. Both men and women enjoy getting pampered. So give a foot or back massage, or have your partner strip down for a full-body treatment.

Massage also increases oxytocin, improving the romance in your relationship.

Kimberly Blaker is a freelance writer, former columnist and author. draw any conclusions, cautioned Dr. Eliezer Masliah of the National Institute on Aging.

Still, “it’s ver y exciting, compelling data,” added Masliah, who wasn’t involved with the research. “It opens the door for more extensive, larger studies, definitely.”

Rezai is about to begin another small test of a similar but better-proven drug named Leqembi. Eventually, large studies would be needed to tell if combining focused ultrasound with Alzheimer’s drugs makes a real difference for patients.

Masliah said it’s also important to closely check whether speedier plaque reduction might increase the risk of a rare but worrisome side effect of these new drugs — bleeding and swelling in the brain.

Alzheimer’s isn’t the only target. Other researchers are testing if breaching the blood-brain barrier could allow more chemotherapy to reach brain tumors, and ways to target other diseases. © 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.

BEACON BITS

Apr. 15

HALL OF FAME NOMINATIONS DUE

The Maryland Senior Citizens Hall of Fame, active since 1987, is seeking nominations for its 2024 Hall of Fame awards. The annual prizes are given to people 65 and older who have made significant recent contributions to their communities. The deadline for nominations is April 15.

Information and forms can be found at mschf.org or call (410) 828-5852.

FREE QIGONG CLASS

Mar. 11+ Qigong — the practice of cultivating and balancing Qi, or life force energy — uses simple movements and focused breathing and can be done standing, seated, in a wheelchair or even in a bed. Decrease stress and increase vitality at these free classes on Mon., March 11 and 25, and April 8, at 11 a.m. The classes take place at the Creative Arts Center, Central Library, 400 Cathedral St., Baltimore. Registration isn’t necessary. For more information, call (410) 396-5430.

MAIL OR EMAIL FOR FREE INFORMATION For free materials on housing communities, just complete and clip this coupon and mail, or take a picture and email it to the Beacon.

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❏ Brightview Senior Living (see ad on page 4) ❏ Caritas House Assisted Living (see ad on page 8) ❏ Catholic Charities (see ad on page 8) ❏ Charlestown/Erickson (see ad on page 7) ❏ Christ Church Harbor Apts (see ad on page 18) ❏ Harmony at Enterprise (see ad on page 11) ❏ Harmony at Kent (see ad on page 11) ❏ Harmony at Waldorf (see ad on page 11) ❏ Oak Crest/Erickson (see ad on page 7) ❏ Park View Laurel (see ad on page 13) ❏ Park View Towson (see ad on page 13) ❏ Park View Fullerton (see ad on page 13) ❏ Park View Rosedale (see ad on page 13) ❏ Pickersgill (see ad on page 4) ❏ St. Mary’s Roland View Towers (see ad on page 10) ❏ Virginia Towers (see ad on page 6) ❏ Warren Place Senior Apartments (see ad on page 15) ❏ Westminster House Apts (see ad on page 8)

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MARCH 2024 — BALTIMORE BEACON

What to do about shaky hands, angina

By Howard LeWine, M.D. Q: I have developed a tremor in both my hands. It gets worse when I get nervous. Is this the start of Parkinson’s disease? Can it be treated?

A: It’s not surprising that you associate tremor with Parkinson’s disease. But it is much more likely that you have essential tremor, a very common disorder.

Tremor is the shaky movements of your hands, limbs, head or voice that you can’t control. Sometimes tremor is a normal reaction to a situation, such as fear, fatigue or anger. It also can be a side effect of too much caffeine, a medication, or withdrawal from alcohol, a drug or medicine. When a tremor occurs during activities, and there is no emotional or chemical cause, essential tremor is a likely possibility.

Essential tremor is different from Parkinson’s disease. Essential tremor is most noticeable when your body is in action, such as when you are writing, typing or pouring a beverage. The shakiness is often called an “intention tremor” because it worsens when a person is trying to do something.

In contrast, people with Parkinson’s watch their hands shake when they rest in their lap. But when they reach out to grab or hold something, such as a cup of coffee, the shaking stops.

Essential tremor usually starts in midlife or later. As many as one in four people develop essential tremor as they age.

The name of this condition indicates that the cause is unknown and that it occurs on its own, without another explanation. You are more likely to develop essential tremor

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if you have a parent or sibling with the condition. In fact, genetic mutations have been linked to “benign familial tremor.”

The most common initial symptom is shaking of the hands, but other areas, including the arms, legs and head, are frequently involved. A trembling voice may be a symptom of essential tremor.

For mild symptoms, no treatment is needed. Avoiding caffeine and stress and getting plenty of rest can be helpful.

However, for symptoms that impair quality of life, most doctors prescribe either a beta blocker, usually propranolol, or primidone, an anti-seizure medicine. If the initial choice doesn’t work well enough, you can try the other, and sometimes taking both helps the most. Alternative medications are topiramate and gabapentin. Both are anti-seizure drugs but are often used for other indications, such as migraine and chronic pain.

Q: I get chest heaviness if I walk too fast or get excited. It goes away quickly when I stop or calm down. I think I have angina. Will I need to have a stent or surgery?

A: Your symptoms suggest that you have stable angina. But you definitely need to call your doctor to arrange a thorough medical evaluation of your symptoms.

If your doctor confirms it is angina, most likely it is due to coronary artery disease. Angina happens when the network of arteries that nourish the heart are narrowed by fatty and calcified plaque, a condition called atherosclerosis. The classic symptom — chest discomfort during physical exertion — is known as stable angina because it occurs in a predictable pattern.

For decades, cardiologists debated the best way to treat this problem: a procedure to reopen the artery (angioplasty and a stent) or optimal medical therapy medication.

The rationale for doing angioplasty on people with stable angina came from a long-held assumption that turned out to be wrong. Until about 30 years ago, the collective opinion was that atherosclerosis was an inexorable, progressive disease that would eventually cause a heart attack.

Doctors now recognize that most heart attacks occur in arteries that are only about 30% to 40% blocked but harbor so-called vulnerable plaque that ruptures without warning. The resulting blood clot blocks blood flow, triggering a heart attack.

Several major trials confirm that for people with stable angina, stents don’t offer any advantage over optimal medical therapy when it comes to preventing heart attacks or death.

Medications help treat (and perhaps stabilize and even reverse) atherosclerosis in all the heart’s arteries, whereas stents address only specific spots. Drug therapy is also less expensive and has fewer serious side effects.

Understandably, people with stable angina worry about having a fatal heart attack. But studies show that the risk is low — only about 0.4% per year in people who are careful to address all their risk factors. That means not smoking, eating a healthy diet with plenty of plant-based foods, getting regular exercise and managing stress, in addition to taking the right combination and doses of medicines.

In contrast to stable angina, unstable angina tends to occur without warning, with only slight exertion or even when you’re resting or sleeping. Angina that becomes more frequent, worsens or lasts longer than usual is considered unstable and may signal a heart attack. If your chest discomfort or other symptoms don’t get better within 10 minutes, call 911. © 2023 Harvard University. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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7

Six high-fiber vegetables to add to your diet

By Ariel Klein We all know that consuming a good amount of fiber is important for our overall health, but do we know why?

“Eating more high-fiber vegetables is one of the best things people can do for their health,” explained nutrition expert Meghan Novoshielski M.S., RDN. “Fiber helps with weight loss, keeps blood sugars stable, protects cardiovascular and digestive health and fuels a healthy gut microbiome.”

And while many vegetables contain an adequate amount of fiber, Novoshielski says that a good rule of thumb for even more fiber is to grab veggies that are darker in color, like spinach.

The American Heart Association recommends that adults eat between 25 to 30 grams of fiber per day, but since many peo-

ple don’t get enough vegetables in their daily diets, Novoshielski recommends adding high-fiber ingredients (such as veggies) to your meals.

1. Carrots. Did you know that a serving of boiled carrots contains more fiber than raw carrots? But don’t worry, it’s not by much: a cup of boiled carrots has 5 grams of fiber, while a medium-sized raw carrot has about 2 grams. Whether you’re adding them to a salad, a curry or dipping them into delicious hummus, carrots are a great veggie to have on hand each week since they’re so versatile.

2. Broccoli. It should come as no surprise that broccoli is one of the healthiest vegetables to add to your diet. Katherine Gomez, a registered dietitian, noted, “Just one cup of broccoli has about 5 grams of fiber. It also contains antioxidants and vita-

big and strong. Katherine Gomez, RD, said, “Spinach has about 4 grams of fiber per cup, and it also contains iron, which is necessary for producing red blood cells.”

Enjoy spinach as a side dish, or mix a handful into your favorite pasta recipe.

6. Peas. There’s a reason peas are usually one of the first vegetables we introduce to babies. “A cup of peas has about 9 grams of fiber, and they are an excellent source of B vitamins, which are crucial for energy metabolism,” Gomez said.

Real Simple magazine provides smart, realistic solutions to everyday challenges.

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

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min C, which can strengthen our immune system and lower the risk of chronic illness.”

3. Eggplant. If you love eggplant parmesan or stuffed eggplant, you’ll be happy to know those dishes contain a good amount of fiber. Just like cauliflower, eggplant has about 2 grams of fiber per cup.

4. Brussels sprouts. Is there anything more delicious than a freshly shredded Brussels sprout salad? These crunchy little green veggies have over 4 grams of fiber per cup, and they’re truly a superfood. They have plenty of nutritional benefits and may even protect against certain types of cancer.

5. Spinach. If Popeye taught us anything, it’s that spinach can make us grow

FREE TECH SUPPORT Baltimore County Department of Aging, in partnership with the

University of Maryland Extension, offers free, private, one-on-one tech support.

GriefShare is a nondenominational support group for those grieving the loss of a loved one. The meetings take place every Tuesday from March 12 to June 11, from noon to 2 p.m., at Valley Presbyterian Church, 2200 W.

The Cyber Senior Tech Helpline is available every Friday from noon to 2 p.m. For

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MARCH 2024 — BALTIMORE BEACON

Who knew? A healthy gut helps your heart

By Julie Corliss Your gut microbiome — a collection of trillions of microorganisms inhabiting your intestinal tract — has wide-ranging effects on your health. Your unique mix of bacteria, fungi, parasites and viruses reflects your genes, your age, the medications you take — but most of all, what you eat.

Over the past two decades, numerous studies have explored how gut microbes and their breakdown products (metabo-

lites) affect factors linked with heart disease. For the most part, the findings support the same basic advice health experts recommend: Follow a mostly plant-based eating pattern and cut back on highly processed foods. Doing so can help promote a more diverse, healthier microbiome.

“The standard American diet — appropriately called SAD — features a lot of processed foods that are high in sugar, artificial sweeteners and unhealthy fats,”

Try these fermented foods Eating fermented foods may help dampen inflammation in the body.

When shopping, look for the words “contains live cultures” when choosing yogurt or kefir, a yogurt-like drink with a tart flavor and a thinner consistency than yogurt. While both products are usually made with dairy milk, they also come in nondairy versions made from almond, coconut or oat milk.

Another beverage, kombucha, is a fizzy, tart, slightly sweet drink made from fermented tea that’s often flavored with fruits and herbs. Look for brands without added sugar.

For fermented products made from

vegetables, look in the refrigerated section and check for the words “naturally fermented” on the label. When you open the jar, check for telltale bubbles in the liquid, which signal that live organisms are inside.

If you’re a fan of spicy food, try kimchi, a spicy, reddish fermented cabbage dish from Korea made with a mix of garlic, salt, vinegar and chili peppers.

From Japan, there’s miso (a strong, salty paste made from soybeans fermented with brown rice) and tempeh (a firm, chewy product made from fermented soybeans). © 2023 by Harvard University

said Dr. Uma Naidoo, director of nutritional and metabolic psychiatry at Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts General Hospital.

This nutrient-poor diet can lead to dysbiosis, an overgrowth of harmful microbes.

When bad microbes thrive in the gut, they form pro-inflammatory breakdown products and toxins, Dr. Naidoo explains. The resulting low-grade, body-wide inflammation contributes to obesity, poor mental health, diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Animal vs. plant-based foods One metabolite of interest is trimethylamine (TMA), which is created when gut microbes feed on choline, a nutrient found in red meat, fish, poultry and eggs. In the liver, TMA gets converted to trimethylamine Noxide (TMAO).

While some research suggests a link between TMAO and artery-clogging plaque, the evidence isn’t consistent. Still, the advice to limit red meat consumption — the main source of TMA in the diet — makes sense.

But according to Dr. Naidoo, there’s no need to avoid those animal-based foods, which is something most Americans aren’t especially keen on doing. Instead, people should focus more on what they’re not eating — namely, fruits, vegetables and whole grains.

Diversify your diet A woefully small percentage of adults —

only about 10% — eats the recommended daily amount of fruit (one-and-a-half to two cups) or vegetables (two to three cups).

Don’t limit yourself to only a few favorites like apples or broccoli, said Dr. Naidoo.

“Eat a wide variety of different fruits and vegetables on a regular basis to bring biodiversity to your microbiome,” she said.

Despite a recent uptick, whole grains make up less than 16% of the average American’s total grain intake. Whole grains such as oats, quinoa, spelt and barley are healthier choices than most “whole wheat” bread, which isn’t always made with 100% whole grains. Other foods that promote gut health include beans, lentils, nuts and seeds.

Fruits, vegetables, beans and whole grains are good sources of fermentable or prebiotic fiber, which gets broken down by bacteria in your colon to form short-chain fatty acids. These compounds then circulate through the bloodstream and interact with receptors on cells that quell inflammation. The fatty acids also appear to play a role in keeping blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol levels in check.

You can also increase good gut bacteria levels by consuming probiotics, which are found in fermented foods (see box). “Try adding a little bit of these foods to your meals and then grow from there,” Dr. Naidoo suggested. © 2023 by Harvard University

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Mar. 19+ MEMORY CAFÉ

Senior living, services and supports for older Marylanders and their families.

Jewish Community Services invites individuals with memory changes and their care partners to Memory Café, a welcoming, relaxed place to meet, socialize and enjoy refreshments and activities. This free event takes place on the third Tuesday of each month from 2 to 3 p.m., at the Pikesville Library, 1301 Reisterstown Rd. Pre-registration is required at bit.ly/JCSMemoryCafe.

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Activities, socialization and medical supervision so older adults can continue to live at home.

Learn how to research articles and documents in databases available online and in the library. This free class takes place on Wed., March 13 from 11:30 to 12:30 p.m. at the Keswick Wise & Well Center for Healthy Living, 700 W. 40th St., Baltimore. For more information and to register, call (410) 662-4243.

Caring Home Service Program

The Caring Home Services (CHS) Program, available at nine of our communities, offers services to support safely aging in place.

Services include daily meals served in a group setting, weekly housekeeping, laundry, and personal services, and service management provided by the on-site CHS Supervisor.

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FANTASTIC VIEWS

Makes a great gift! | Fitness & Health

BALTIMORE BEACON — MARCH 2024

9

Ask the Ho H me Care Exper xpert Tom Smith, To h, Reegional gional Manager, Bu Business D Dev evelopm elopment, Family & Nursing ng Carre e

S

ince 1968, Family & Nursing Care has helped tens of thousands of families by providing access to caregivers who help older adults d lt with ith activities ti iti off daily d il living li i — including bathing, dressing, mobility assistance, errands, meal prep, light housekeeping,

medication rreminders nders, re companionsship and more.

Now servving the Baltimore mily & Nursing Care is region, Fam a leading or private i t duty d t l di resource ffo home care services, providing clients and their families with access to compassionate and

expert-level caregivers egiv to help older adults ults maintain m their independence and quality of liffee as they age. Ninety-eight percent d clients li t h id they th off surveyed have said would recommend these services to a fr friend or family member.

This month, we talked to To Tom

Smith, Regio onal Managerr,, Business Developmen nt, at Family & Nursing Care about the t importance of making the rright mat atch between client li t and d caaregiv i err,, h il & how F Family Nursing Carre’s staff works together to make the match, and why clients appreciate a th he eff ffo ort.

Q: How does Family & Nursing Care help ensure a good relationship between Caregiv ve er and client?

families on a deeply personal level and they become the family’s go-to person at at Family & Nursing Care.

The CCMs get to know the caregivers’ skills, interests and personalities just as intimately. y. To Together, they recommend a caregiver that at possesses the skill sets, personality, y, interests and more to be that at perfe fect mat atch.

And then they work to make sure the mat atch remains perfe fect.

The client-caregiver bond is the foundation of this business. Our dedicat ation to the perfe fect match process is why families have placed th i ttrustt iin their nF Family il & Nursing N i Care fo for oveer half a century. y.

are expertly trained in helping families navigate their crises.

In addition, 95 percent of clients relayed that their caregiver was a g their needs.

Annually, y, onl top eight percen of caregivers wh apply to Family & Nursing N i Care C pass our rigorou screening process. Because of this, clients and their families have

access to mo ore than 1,500 best-of-the--best caregivers, with diversee skills and training to make thee right match.

A: At Family & Nursing Care, we are fo focused on making sure you never worry about how your older parent gets along with his or her caregiver. W Wee want to make sure families of clients know their loved one’s physical and emotional needs are being met.

Our expert Client Services Managers (CSMs) and Care Coordinat ating Managers (CCMs) work to make those goals a reality. y. The CSM digs deep with the prospective client and their family and gets to know about u their physical needs, but u also about their emotional needs, their interests, their personality and their preffeerences. They really get to

Q: Wh hat do yo your clientts appreciate most a about you?

How d do you know?

A: We survey our ents annually, y, d we are mbled that a 98 cent reported at they would ommend us a friend or ily member. elieve that e these high to our caring ompassionate all of whom

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410-697-820 00 famiilynursingcare.c com

10

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MARCH 2024 — BALTIMORE BEACON

Is hair loss related to protein deficiency?

By Robert H. Shmerling, M.D. Q: My hair seems to be getting thinner, and I see more on my hairbrush now. Should I be eating more protein?

A: For most people with hair loss, inadequate protein is not to blame.

It’s true that severe protein malnutrition may cause hair loss. But people with adequate access to food, a normal appetite and normal digestion should not lose hair due to low protein intake.

In fact, it’s more important that you get “enough” protein, not that you eat “a lot” of protein. A healthy, average adult diet includes about 50 grams of protein daily, representing about 10% of the total calories. You

can easily get that much from a turkey sandwich, a glass of milk and a cup of yogurt.

The most common causes of hair loss are unrelated to protein intake. These include: • Male pattern baldness: A combination of genetics and hormonal influences cause hair follicles to shrink, producing less and less hair over time • Injury to the hair, including heat and chemical exposures at the salon • Medications: A long list of drugs can cause hair loss • Stress over a major illness • Thyroid disease • Childbirth: During pregnancy, hair

BEACON BITS TAX AIDE Ongoing AARP Take advantage of AARP’s Tax Aide program, which provides free tax assistance to anyone, with a focus on taxpayers who are over 50 and have low-to-moderate income. The consultations take place on Fridays and Saturdays at Arbutus Library, 855 Sulphur Spring Rd. To schedule an appointment, call (410) 887-1451.

Mar. 9

Money coach Tarsia Gray answers your money questions on Sat., March 9, from noon to 1 p.m. at Govans Library, 5714 Bellona Ave., Baltimore. This program is free and doesn’t require registration. For more information, call (410) 396-6098.

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Visit Kadampa Meditation Center of Maryland on Wed., March 6 from 6 to 7 p.m. to participate in a meditation class with prayers for world peace. This class is designed to help bring more positivity and peace into your daily life and overcome negativity and painful ways of thinking.

Suggested donation is $5. The address is 900 E. Northern Pkwy., Baltimore. For more information, email peace@meditationmd.org or call (410) 243-3837.

Mar. 12

FREE HISTORY LECTURE

Dr. Amy Rosenkrans leads a discussion about the Baltimore Woman’s Industrial Exchange, where women could sell items to help their families make ends meet, dating back to the 19th century. Join the conversation on Tue., March 12, at 6 p.m. in the Poe Room, Central Library, 400 Cathedral St., Baltimore. Registration is not required for this free event. For more information, call (410) 396-5430.

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• Repeated “flares” of illness requiring hospital stays • Alcoholism It is rare to develop protein malnutrition in the absence of risk factors as long as you have access to a balanced diet. So, adding protein to your diet is unlikely to slow or prevent hair loss in the absence of protein malnutrition.

Talk to your doctor about any concerns you have about your protein intake and hair loss. Simple blood tests can provide useful information. Even if your protein levels are normal, your doctor may be able to identify another readily treatable, reversible cause of hair loss.

Robert H. Shmerling, M.D., is a senior faculty editor at Harvard Health Publishing and corresponding member of the Faculty of Medicine, Harvard Medical School.

For additional consumer health information, visit health.harvard.edu. © 2023 Harvard University. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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grows thicker, and after delivery, hair loss is common.

Rare causes of hair loss include liver failure, kidney failure and skin diseases (such as alopecia areata or lupus).

For people with protein malnutrition, there are much bigger health concerns than hair loss, such as poor immune function, poor wound healing, lack of energy and muscle weakness.

Common causes of protein malnutrition include inadequate access to food, abnormal absorption of nutrients by the digestive tract (as may occur with colitis, infections or other intestinal diseases), HIV, cystic fibrosis, unusual diets and anorexia nervosa.

Other risk factors for protein malnutrition include: • Poor appetite • Swallowing problems • Taking multiple medications • Depression • High nutrient requirements (as with children)

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Makes a great gift! | Fitness & Health

BALTIMORE BEACON — MARCH 2024

Warm up mornings with a fresh casserole

By Family Features On a cool, crisp morning, it’s hard to beat an exciting twist on a breakfast classic.

This French Toast Casserole is crisp on top while soft and moist in the middle, coming fresh out of the oven with the aroma of maple syrup and pecans that will have the whole house eager for a bite.

It’s easy enough to make fresh in the morning but can also be prepared the night before — so all you have to do is add the topping and pop it in the oven.

Find more fresh breakfast recipes to start your day at Culinary.net.

French Toast Casserole 1 loaf French bread (about 1 ½ pounds), cut into 1-inch cubes 5 large eggs 1 ½ cups unsweetened milk 2 tablespoons brown sugar 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1 teaspoon cinnamon ¼ teaspoon nutmeg ¼ teaspoon sea salt maple syrup, for serving

Topping: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter or coconut oil, melted 2 tablespoons brown sugar ½ cup chopped pecans 1 cup frozen strawberries 1 cup frozen blueberries confectioners’ sugar, for dusting

Preheat oven to 350° F. Grease 9-by-13inch baking dish. Place bread cubes in baking dish. In large bowl, whisk eggs, milk, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt. Pour mixture evenly over bread cubes.

If making casserole ahead, cover baking dish and refrigerate overnight. If baking immediately, let stand 30 minutes at room temperature to allow bread to soak up egg mixture.

To make topping: Drizzle casserole with melted butter and sprinkle with brown sugar and pecans. Top with strawberries and blueberries.

Cover and bake 35 minutes; then uncover and bake 10-20 minutes, or until topping is browned and egg mixture has mostly set.

Remove from oven, cover loosely with foil and let stand 10 minutes. Dust with confectioners’ sugar. Serve with maple syrup.

Welcome Home to Harmony

BEACON BITS

Mar. 27

BE AWARE OF NEW SCAMS

Join Jackie Schroeder, Director of CHANA’s Elder Abuse Awareness Program, on Wed., March 27 from 10 to 11 a.m., as she shares information about new types of scams to watch out for and teaches you new ways to stay safe. This free hybrid presentation takes place at Bykota Senior Center, 611 Central Ave., Towson, and virtually on Zoom.

Registration not required. For more information and the Zoom link, email bykotasc@baltimorecountymd.gov or call (410) 887-3094.

Mar. 16

VISIT THE CLOISTERS

Visit The Cloisters on Sat., March 16, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., and get a closer look at the secluded woodland grounds and castle’s stained-glass windows, carved wood and wrought iron details. The address is 10440 Falls Rd., Lutherville. Free; no reservation required. For more information, visit cloisterscastle.com or call (410) 821-7448.

Sc a n to G Ke ys to H e t You r a ppi ne ss

11

12

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MARCH 2024 — BALTIMORE BEACON

© OKSANABRATANOVA, DREAMSTIME.COM

Money Law &

Tired of cooking? Try the meal delivery services described on page 15.

Don’t be fooled by ‘simple’ scam emails

By Jamie Feldman Scams have become ubiquitous in the digital age and are becoming more difficult to spot. According to the Better Business Bureau, the most recent iteration includes some key details that, to the blind eye, may fool you into thinking it’s legit.

Like many other scams, this one comes via email and will appear to be from someone you know. “The message looks harmless and casual — like something a friend might really write,” the BBB said in a recent scam alert.

For example, the BBB said, it could be something like: “Hi, how are things going with you? Are you busy? I need a quick favor,” and even ending the message with “Sent from my iPhone.”

That can be a sophisticated scam, complete with the same automated language included on legitimate emails, the BBB said. If you reply, the scammer may ask you to purchase a gift card for them and send a photo of the pin or the back of the

card, claiming they’re traveling and are unable to buy it online.

guard down. But it’s important to remember that scammers are working all year round.

Don’t give out any information But don’t be fooled. Scammers use email or text messages to trick you into giving them personal and financial information, according to the Federal Trade Commission, whose data finds that scams cost consumers billions of dollars a year.

Gift cards are especially tricky when it comes to scams, as they don’t contain the same protections as credit or debit cards, so you most likely won’t recoup your money.

It’s one of the reasons why gift cards are one of the worst things to keep in your wallet. Anyone can use them, as you are not required to show ID when paying with a gift card, and they are an easy target for scammers both during the holidays and otherwise. Scammers take down gift card information and wait until it’s activated to use it.

After being on high alert during the holidays, you might be tempted to let your

What to do if you’ve been scammed According to the BBB, the best way to

protect yourself is to contact the friend directly to confirm that the message is from them. Also, use gift cards wisely, being sure to stay wary of businesses that deal exclusively with gift cards.

See ‘SIMPLE’ SCAMS, page 13

Recognize the four basic signs of a scam 1. Scammers pretend to be from a familiar organization or agency, like the Social Security Administration.

They may email attachments with official-looking logos, seals, signatures or pictures of employee credentials.

2. Scammers mention a problem or a prize. They may say your Social Security number was involved in a crime or ask for personal information to

process a benefit increase.

3. Scammers pressure you to act immediately. They may threaten you with arrest or legal action.

4. Scammers tell you to pay using a gift card, prepaid debit card, cryptocurrency, wire or money transfer, or by mailing cash. They may also tell you to transfer your money to a “safe” account.

—Social Security Administration

Key income tax deductions not to miss It is no secret that the federal income reg- or an S corporation shareholder with at ulations are very complex. As a result, many least 2% of the company stock. This deducdeductions are missed by indition is not subject to the 7.5% viduals when they file their tax of adjusted income test associreturns. I’ll discuss some of ated with itemized deductions. these deductions below.

If you are self-employed Because of the increase in and have been using an itemstandard deductions, accordized deduction because of ing to the IRS, almost 88% of high medical premiums and tax filers used the standard deother healthcare costs, you duction on their 2020 tax reshould make sure that you turn. For your 2023 tax return, would not have lower taxes if the standard deduction was inyou use the standard deduccreased by 7% from last year. THE SAVINGS tion and deduct the healthFor individuals, the standard GAME care premiums and other deduction is $13,850; for joint By Elliot Raphaelson healthcare expenses from filers, the deduction is $27,700. your self-employed income on the appropriate schedule, such as Schedule C. Medical premium deductions Many individuals who are self-employed use the standard deduction. Even if you are Additional retirement self-employed and use the standard deduc- contributions after age 50 tion, you are allowed to deduct Medicare If you contribute to retirement accounts premiums associated with Part B, Part D, such as IRAs or a 401(k) and have reached Medigap and Medicare Advantage. You are age 50, you should take advantage of the considered self-employed if you are a sole extra contributions you can make.

On your 2023 or 2024 tax return, you are proprietor using Schedule C, a partner filing Schedule E, a limited liability member allowed to make the following additional

contributions: For IRAs, you can contribute $1,000 in addition to the upper limits ($6,500 for 2023; $7,000 for 2024). For 401(k) plans in 2024, you can contribute an additional $7,500 above the $22,500 maximum for individuals under 50.

As long as you file a joint return, you are allowed to make IRA contributions to a spouse’s IRA even if the spouse does not work or if the spouse does not earn enough to make the maximum IRA contribution.

The only requirement is that the working spouse has sufficient income to cover both IRA contributions.

For example, the maximum IRA contribution for 2024 is $7,000. So, if your earned income is at least $14,000, you can make an IRA contribution for yourself of $7,000 and a contribution of $7,000 for your spouse, even if your spouse has no earned income.

Qualified charitable distributions As long as you are at least 70 1/2, you are allowed to make qualified charitable distributions (QCDs) of up to $100,000 a year directly from your IRA account to a qualified charity. If you are required to take required minimum distributions (RMDs) in 2024 and you

intend to make QCDs, then you will be reducing your taxes by using the QCD option.

For example, suppose you are in the 22% tax bracket, which means that when you file your tax return, the last dollar of your taxable income is taxed at 22%. This is known as your marginal tax bracket.

In this example, if you make a $1,000 charitable contribution using the QCD option, you will have reduced your taxes by $220 (22% of the amount of your contribution).

Some IRA custodians establish a separate account for you to make the contribution directly from your IRA to the charity; some custodians will prepare a check for the charity and send it to you to submit; still, other custodians will send the check to the charity directly. If you want to use the QCD option, ask your IRA custodian which alternative the financial institution uses.

Bottom line: Use all the allowable deductions to reduce your taxes. Don’t hesitate to ask your tax preparer if you are taking all the deductions you are entitled to.

Elliot Raphaelson welcomes your questions and comments at raphelliot@gmail.com. © 2024 Elliot Raphaelson. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency LLC.

Makes a great gift! | Law & Money

BALTIMORE BEACON — MARCH 2024

13

Find room for philanthropy in any market

By Peter J. Klein We have all been feeling the squeeze as of late, and philanthropy is feeling it, too.

The costs of things we buy, be it food, clothing or even entertainment (have you seen the price of a baseball game recently?) seem only to go one way — higher.

Economists blame inflation, pandemic remnants and supply-chain challenges.

We’re left with two issues: The things we buy are increasing in cost, and the sources of our money’s growth (stocks, bonds, etc.) are declining — hence, the squeeze.

The financial squeeze may make us reconsider donating to the causes we care about, but now’s the time to keep giving.

Giving back is not only the right thing to do, but it also feels good to know you are making a positive impact in the world.

Here are a few ways to find room for philanthropy, even in challenging economic times: 1. Take a closer look at your finances. Evaluate your finances and see if there’s anything excessive to cut. Donate funds to a charity of choice by creating (and sticking to) a reasonable budget.

Once you can set aside money to donate, consider automating a monthly contribution so you won’t be tempted to spend the money elsewhere.

Depending on your economic situation, you may also consider contributing to a donor-advised fund (DAF). A donor-advised fund allows investors to contribute to a charitable fund while still keeping control over the assets.

With these funds, donors get an immediate tax deduction while controlling how to invest the assets (including stocks, bonds, mutual funds, Bitcoin and crypto, among others) and for which charities over time.

Contributing to a DAF during a high-income year is a great opportunity to maximize both your philanthropic efforts and charitable tax benefits.

A DAF allows you to start small and encounter far less of the red tape that comes

‘Simple’ scams From page 12 As Kiplinger has previously reported, if you suspect you’ve already been a victim of credit card fraud, there are a few steps you can take. You can file a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. If you notice fraudulent charges, you can call AARP’s Fraud Watch Network helpline at 1-877-908-3360.

To learn more about how to spot, avoid and report scams or steps to help you recover money you’ve lost to a scammer, visit the FTC’s scam reporting page at consumer.ftc.gov/scams. And if you spot a scam, you can report it directly to the FTC’s fraud report site at reportfraud.ftc.gov. © 2024 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

with private foundations. A DAF also does not mandate a certain cadence with respect to grants. In fact, the capital continues to grow tax-free (though it is no longer yours) until you and your family decide which nonprofits you would like to support.

2. Make donating a family effort.

In September 2022, Patagonia’s founder, Yvon Chouinard, transferred the company’s ownership to two nonprofits fighting climate change. Patagonia estimates that $100 million annually will go toward environmental efforts.

To plan and implement his legacy gift, Chouinard established a board of trustees and included his family in the planning process. When a donor’s family understands the big-picture goal, they’ll likely want to support and contribute.

Donors who include their families in discussions about their intentions will find it

easier to get them on board.

Not only can contributing to a nonprofit as a family create memories and a bond, but it also puts more resources in the same place. Instead of each family member donating to a different cause, multiple people support the same cause and create a more significant impact.

3. Support nonprofits in other ways.

There are several ways to support nonprofits that don’t cost money but still make a big difference.

Start by volunteering your time. Nonprofits need helping hands to get things done. With volunteers, they can carry out their mission. Look for volunteer opportunities in your area related to causes you care about.

Donate your unused miles or points to a specific charity or a cause. If you’re not using them, consider donating your credit

card points or rewards cash to nonprofits.

Donating points means no tax deduction, but you don’t have to open your wallet to support your favorite nonprofit.

If you’re ready to spring clean or declutter your home, donate items to organizations in need. From books and cell phones to computers and eyeglasses, there’s someone who can benefit from it. Make sure to get a receipt for tax deductions.

Contractors and business owners may also consider donating their services to help a nonprofit. Teaching a class, providing consulting or working on a project pro bono is a way to support a cause.

Finally, spread the word about your favorite nonprofits. If you’re active online, share social media posts from the organization to boost awareness, or drop a donation See PHILANTHROPY, page 14

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MARCH 2024 — BALTIMORE BEACON

Enlist an entourage to make life easier

By Katherine Reynolds Lewis If it takes a village to raise a child, it can take a small town to support an aging adult.

As we get older, the range of professionals and services we rely on for physical, financial and daily living support expands and shifts. They are your entourage as you age.

Who will be your entourage? The people and services that support you fall into these categories: Health care. For much of your life, you may have gotten by with just a primary care doctor and possibly a therapist for mental health care. In retirement, you’ll likely add specialists such as an ophthalmologist, a dermatologist and a physical therapist. Later in life, you may develop conditions that require a cardiologist, gastrointestinal doctor, rheumatologist, pulmonologist or oncologist.

Home care. Outside help may begin as

a want, but it becomes a need for those who age in place. Indeed, less than 10% of seniors plan to move into a retirement community, according to Colin Milner, chief executive officer of the International Council on Active Aging, and they will have to plan ahead to have help in place.

“We have to start adopting these different service providers early on,” he said.

Personal care. The basic activities of daily living that can trigger long-term care insurance benefits when you can no longer perform them on your own include bathing, dressing and grooming, going to the toilet, getting into a bed or chair, feeding yourself and walking.

Food. The possibilities range from a personal shopper or chef to simply using the delivery service of your local grocery store.

Fitness and wellness. Should you hire a personal trainer or attend exercise classes at an upscale gym, local community center or virtually? These are the kinds

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of fitness decisions you make as you age.

Fun and friends. Don’t overlook friends or potential friends. You can cultivate neighborhood friendships by hosting potlucks or offering to help bring your neighbors’ packages inside. These nearby relationships can help in an emergency.

Transportation. As you age, transportation options may become limited by vision, hearing or mobility challenges.

When a family member or a paid driver takes you on errands and to doctors’ visits, they’re part of your entourage. Explore public transit options in your city. [Ed. Note: Local nonprofits called “villages” can provide rides and more; see “Villages can help neighbors age in place” in the January 2024 Beacon.]

Finances. You may enlist someone to manage your nest egg, whether that’s an independent financial planner or a mutual fund company. An accountant, tax preparer or H&R Block may assist you in paying

Uncle Sam each April. At some point, you might rely on a family member or trusted adviser to manage paying bills and sorting through correspondence.

Communication and technology.

From Amazon to Walmart, almost everything can be delivered to your doorstep.

However, if online ordering is confusing, home delivery is off the table.

The Geek Squad or other in-person technology support services can help you fix computer or electronics bugs. Your local library may also provide tech classes and hands-on help. And many consumer electronics companies have online and telephone support.

In addition, Senior Planet from AARP offers free live online tech-related classes, among other subjects. To join a class, visit seniorplanet.org or call 1-888-713-3495. © 2023 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Philanthropy

the pandemic and the financial market, and these organizations are feeling the squeeze on both ends. As donors, it is up to us to help charities continue to fight for important causes as much as possible. © 2023 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

From page 13 link into your next email newsletter. Sharing, talking about and engaging with charitable organizations does make a difference.

Donations to charities have been on a roller coaster these last few years due to

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BALTIMORE BEACON — MARCH 2024

15

Skip the cooking and have meals delivered Dear Savvy Senior, Can you recommend some good healthy meal delivery options for seniors who don’t cook or get out much?

My 80-year-old father, who lives alone, has a terrible diet, and I worry about his health.

—Concerned Daughter Dear Concerned, There are actually a wide variety of healthy meal delivery options that can help non-cooking seniors who live at home. Here are several top options:

Community-based programs A good place to start is to find out if there’s a senior home delivery meal program in your dad’s area. Meals on Wheels is the largest program that most people are familiar with, but many communities offer senior meal delivery programs sponsored by other organizations that go by different names.

To find services available in your dad’s area, visit MealsOnWheelsAmerica.org, which offers a comprehensive directory on their website, or call the area aging agency near your dad. Call the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116 to get the local number.

Most home-delivered meal programs across the U.S. deliver hot meals daily or sev-

eral times a week, usually around the lunch the food arrives either fresh or frozen, and hour, to people over age 60 who have prob- most companies deliver all across the U.S. lems preparing meals for themPrices generally start at selves, as well as those with disaround $8 to $13 per meal plus abilities. Weekend meals, usualshipping; however, many comly frozen, may also be available, panies provide discounts or along with special diets (diabetfree shipping when you order ic, low-sodium, kosher, etc.). meals in bulk. And most comMost of these programs panies work with Medicaid and typically charge a small fee some Medicare Advantage (usually between $2 and $9 plans to help reduce costs. per meal) or request a donaSome of the best meal delivtion, while some may be free ery companies for older adults, SAVVY SENIOR to low-income seniors who as rated by Verywell Health for

By Jim Miller qualify for Medicaid. There 2023, include: are also some Medicare Advantage plans • Best Variety: Magic Kitchen that cover limited meal service benefits. (magickitchen.com) • Best Value: Mom’s Meals Meal delivery service companies (momsmeals.com) Another great option for your dad is to • Best for Nutrition Consultation: order him some pre-made meals online BistroMD (bistromd.com) from a meal delivery service company.

• Best Plant-Based Meals: Mosaic These companies provide a wide variety of (mosaicfoods.com) tasty meal choices and will usually post the • Best Gluten-Free: ModifyHealth nutrition information for their meals right (modifyhealth.com) on their website.

• Best Chef-Prepared: CookUnity Most companies will also cater to a host of (cookunity.com) dietary and medical needs, such as low-sodium and low-carb meals, diabetic meals, gluten-free, dairy-free and vegetarian options. Plus, the ordering process is very easy.

Depending on the company you choose,

Go to

jmorreliving.ccom for news, s deliciouss recipes and fun featurres.

• Best for Customization: Snap Kitchen (snapkitchen.com) For more information on this list and their testing methodology, visit VerywellHealth.com and search for “Best Meal Delivery Services for Seniors.”

Grocery stores and restaurants Depending on where your dad lives, he may also be able to get home-delivered meals from local grocery stores or restaurants. Some grocery stores offer a selection of pre-cooked meals and foods, including roasted chicken, mashed potatoes, and fresh soups and salads. Contact the grocery stores in your dad’s area to inquire about this option.

Check with some of his favorite restaurants to see if they offer home delivery — or he could use a restaurant delivery service like UberEats.com, DoorDash.com or GrubHub.com.

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 The Savvy Senior book.

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SERGE UZAN/PIXABAY

Travel Leisure &

Discover a delicious delicacy: truffles. See story on page 17.

Bask in Barbados’ beaches, gardens, warmth to British rule until 1966, when Barbados was granted independence.

Traces of the island country’s intriguing history are conveniently located in an area slightly more than double the size of Washington, D.C. Bridgetown, the capital and largest city (population about 110,000), earns its UNESCO World Heritage Site designation for its well-preserved downtown. Attractions include the Parliament Building (constructed 18701874), Independence Square and Queen’s Park, the site of the former home of the Commander of British Troops (built in 1784). Among more than 500,000 artifacts in the Barbados Museum, housed in an old military prison, are antique paintings and maps of the island.

The museum at Nidhe Israel Synagogue documents the story of the oldest Jewish temple in the Western Hemisphere (1654) and the local Jewish community. It was constructed by refugees from Portugal and Brazil, who brought with them knowledge of sugar production technology, which resulted in the vital role of Barbados in the sugar, molasses and rum industries. More about that later.

On a lighter note, located on a back street in the outskirts of Bridgetown is the childhood home of Rihanna. The songwriter, singer, businesswoman and actress is the second-best-selling female music

PHOTO BY DAVID STANLEY

By Victor Block When my wife Fyllis and I landed in Barbados this winter, we asked a man outside the airport for directions to our hotel. To our surprise, he didn’t give them to us. Instead, he insisted on leading us there in his vehicle.

Throughout our trip to the Caribbean island — our second in 20 years — we were impressed by the friendly, warm people we met. After I unknowingly dropped some money on a restaurant floor, for instance, a waiter followed me to the door and returned it. And the kindnesses continued.

Add this well-deserved reputation for a welcoming populace to a lengthy list of things to see and do, along with a choice of inviting beaches, and it’s little wonder that Barbados serves as a year-round magnet for tourism. In winter, visitors from Great Britain join smaller groups from Canada, the United States and elsewhere seeking to trade frigid temperatures for a sun and sand retreat. Come summer, budget-conscious vacationers enjoy the same attractions at lower cost.

These latecomers follow the footsteps of the first people who visited the island as early as 1,600 B.C.E. and the Amerindians who established villages there during the 4th to 7th centuries.

A small group of English settlers founded a colony in 1627, and that foothold led

PHOTO BY GARY BEMBRIDGE

The remnants of an ancient coral reef, Bathsheba Rock is located in Bathsheba, a small fishing village on the east coast of Barbados.

Barbados’ Parliament building is located in its capital, Bridgetown. Most of the city’s well-preserved downtown is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

artist of all time, topped only by Madonna.

Gardens to visit — or not Given the tropical setting, it’s not surprising that Barbados is dotted by lush gardens, each with its own allure. Paths in the Flower Forest weave through a rainforest with sweeping views of the Atlantic coastline, passing beneath towering palm trees and through beds of colorful blooms.

The Andromeda Botanic Gardens were created by a horticulture expert who collected plants from around the world to fill every nook and cranny. More than 500 flowering species spill over eight acres, creating the largest floral exhibit in Barbados.

In a setting where many houses are blanketed with flowers, visiting a formal garden might seem to be redundant. It’s easy to get your floral fix during a stroll or a drive. The most brilliant displays are often encountered at colorful chattel houses.

These small bungalows, unique to Barbados, were constructed by formerly enslaved people who were permitted to build on plantation land they did not own. Because they might be forced to leave at some time in the future, they constructed

tiny wood houses, which they assembled without nails. Many people add decorative touches, painting their homes a variety of colors and planting flowers.

Birthplace of rum Other local structures include small, sometimes ramshackle rum shops, which serve as gathering spots for playing dominoes or discussing topics ranging from politics to the national sport of cricket.

They’re reminders that rum was first created — or, more accurately, discovered — in Barbados. When a 17th-century tavern owner named Rumball was searching for an empty shipping barrel, he stumbled across a cask of sugar cane that had fermented. Rumball knew a good thing when he tasted it and began serving the libation to his customers. First called kill-devil, the beverage was later named for its discoverer.

The drink became so popular that the King of England issued an edict directing members of the Royal Navy be given a half pint daily, and George Washington — who visited Barbados in 1751 — insisted that it be served at his presidential inauguration.

See BARBADOS, page 18

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BALTIMORE BEACON — MARCH 2024

17

Truffle hunting in Virginia unearths new flavor

History of truffles My experience began with an introduction to everything truffle, delivered around a blazing fire pit by Vanessa, her sister Olivia and their mother, Patrice. My fellow adventurers and I benefitted from our hosts’ comprehensive knowledge, which included historical facts, modern practices and recipes for using these highly prized gastronomic gems in a variety of ways.

For example, who knew that truffles were prized at the time of the Egyptian, Greek and Roman empires, that the Medieval Catholic Church largely banned consumption of “the devil’s fruit,” and

that they were a favorite food of French Queen Catherine de Medici and King Louis XIV? Modern truffling is said to have evolved when French farmers observed their pigs uprooting a favorite food and then trained them for the hunt. However, pigs love truffles and often consumed their prize before the farmer could rescue it, so trackers began training dogs, who happily work for canine treats.

The target of the hunt is an edible fungus that grows several inches underground beneath tree branches. Favorite hosts are oak and hazelnut trees.

While there are no definitive figures for the number of planted orchards in the United States, Margaret Townsend, president of the North American Truffle Growers Association, estimates the number to be as high as 400. In addition to Virginia, they span the country from Maryland, Kentucky and Tennessee to Idaho, Oregon and California.

After learning that Virginia Truffles’ owners waited 10 years after planting their seedlings before they got their first, rather miniscule harvest and that their crop is retrieved during the truncated December-toMarch harvesting time frame, I concluded that raising truffles is as much an art as a science, and qualifies as a labor of love.

Post-hunt buffet The love between human and dog was evident as Nadine and Vanessa walked rapidly through the orchard, Vanessa repeating, “Where’s the truffle?” Our trek lasted a little over an hour and produced five black truffles.

A post-hunt mini-buffet included carrot soup, deviled eggs, brie cheese and pastrami, all enhanced with fresh truffle shav-

BEACON BITS

PHOTO BY VICTOR BLOCK

By Victor Block Nadine was excited. She scampered along a haphazard route, pausing now and then to sniff the ground. Occasionally she dug in the dirt, her breath quickening and eyes widening.

But she was not permitted to complete the excavation she had begun. That task was finished by Vanessa, who distracted Nadine with a tasty treat and used a trowel to discover and uncover the object of their search: a muddy brown truffle.

Nadine is a dog, but she’s far from an ordinary canine; she’s trained to find truffles. I recently accompanied her and her handler, Vanessa Shea, on a hunt for those elusive, rather unattractive fungi that more than make up in value what they may lack in appearance.

This quest took place at Virginia Truffles, a family-owned and operated enterprise in Rixeyville, Virginia, a sleepy community within a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Baltimore. During the harvest season, December through February, the farm conducts hunting excursions beneath the trees in their truffle orchard.

At Virginia Truffles, a small farm in Rixeyville, Virginia, Nadine the dog hunts for truffles as her handler and Vanessa Shea investigate her findings.

ings or slices. While the earthy, pungent odor of the tubers Nadine unearthed was almost too strong for my nostrils or taste buds, the hints of truffle in the food added a unique dimension that I found easy to enjoy but difficult to describe.

During a post-snack visit to the farm’s small on-site laboratory, Patrice described the truffle-cleaning process, which includes cutting out any rotted areas. She described the truffle-grading guidelines adopted by the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe. She also mentioned that some of the tubers the farm sells to nearby white-tablecloth restaurants are priced at more than $120 an ounce.

Patrice also listed some of the many

ways truffles add flavor to a variety of foods, several of which were demonstrated and enjoyed during our snack. While some dishes seem like a natural fit — think eggs, soup, mashed potatoes, sauces, dips, butter and cream — the possibilities for using truffles to titillate taste buds are virtually endless.

Having been hooked by the distinctive scent, lore and taste of this nondescript but delicious flavor enhancer, I purchased truffle-infused salt and pepper to bring home and enjoy, along with memories of a unique experience that long will linger in my mind and on my palate.

Truffle hunts are scheduled through February for $130 or $288 with dinner. For more information, visit virginiatruffle.com.

TIME WITH SHELTER CATS Ongoing ENJOY Help socialize shelter cats by playing with them while they wait to be adopted into loving homes. Hours are flexible — come in whenever you have time to spare. Baltimore Animal Rescue and Care Shelter is located at 2490 Giles Rd., Baltimore. For more information and to volunteer, visit bit.ly/MarchCatVolunteer.

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Scope out public transit before your city trip If your summer trip plans include a few out any preliminaries — no signing up for days in a big city, chances are you’ll be any program. I used that system in London, and it worked fine with using public transit to naviboth a Visa and an American gate the area. And if you do, Express card. The system it’s a good idea to arrange in keeps track — if you run up advance for whatever special local one-trip fares to a level discounts and visitor tickets of a day pass, you automatiyou might use, so you’re cally get a day pass and pay ready to get going right away no more for future trips. and don’t waste time figuring out your transit needs.

Each system is unique. Here If you haven’t traveled in a are some U.S. cities with rowhile, you might be surprised bust transit systems and where at two basic trends among big TRAVEL TIPS you’re most likely to need By Ed Perkins U.S. cities: some advance arrangements.

• New payment systems Atlanta: Atlanta’s robust based on tap cards for fare collection. metro system includes service to the airSome newer systems allow use of a regular port. The system uses special “Breeze” bank credit or debit card; others rely on a cards — both reusable and reloadable and unique paper ticket with RFID capability. one-time options. The base fare is $2.50.

• Special ID cards required for use Children up to 46 inches tall ride free, of senior and youth discounts. Driver’s with a limit of two children per paying licenses, Medicaid cards and such are no adult. longer sufficient. In some places, you can Seniors age 65 or over are eligible for a arrange for that ID online before you leave 50% discount, but it requires a special rehome, but others require that you visit a duced-fare Breeze card which is issued only local office in person. in person at one of two offices in downtown If you don’t need a special ID, many new Atlanta during weekday business hours — systems accept a credit or debit card with- online applications are not accepted.

Boston: The system includes a mix of light rail, heavy rail metro, regional rail and harbor ferries, with service to the airport. Cash, single-use CharlieTicket, or stored-value CharlieCard are accepted.

The one-way fare is $2.40 on metro and light rail, $1.70 on local buses; fares are distance based for commuter rail and ferry. Commuter rail and ferries accept paper tickets or “mTicket” smartphone app, but not CharlieCard.

CharlieCards and CharlieTickets for non-discounted fares include $11 unlimited-travel one-day pass and a $22.50 unlimited weekly pass. Seniors 65 or over obtain 50% discounts, but only with a Senior CharlieCard, which you can apply for online (mbta.com/fares/charliecard-and-charlie ticket-online-services).

Chicago: Chicago’s heavy-rail “L” serves both O’Hare and Midway, and regional rail also serves O’Hare infrequently.

The basic L fare is $2.50 per ride, $5 for an all-day ticket or $5 single ride at O’Hare.

Regional rail rates are zone-based.

Fare collection is moving to a regional Ventra system using cards or smartphone apps for contactless payment on L, regional rail, and regional buses. Seniors get 50%

discounts, but only with an RTA reducedfare card, which you can obtain online in advance (fares.rtachicago.org).

New York. An extensive metro system serves the New York area, with service to JFK and Newark but not LaGuardia. The base metro fare is $2.90 per ride, with tapcard fare collection via an OMNY card or simply your own contactless credit/debit card.

Seniors age 65 or over get 50% discounts, but only with a reduced-fare ID available online (reducedfare.mta.info/ registration).

Other cities: You can apply online for senior ID in San Francisco, (mtc.ca.gov/ news/now-easier-apply-youth-and-seniorclipper-cards). Philadelphia (seniors travel free) and Washington (50% off) require you to have a senior ID card, which you must apply for in person.

Most Canadian and European cities offer a variety of fares and passes useful to visitors but not senior discounts; check before you leave home.

Email Ed Perkins at eperkins@mind.net or check out his website at rail-guru.com. © 2024 Ed Perkins. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Barbados

magnet for many visitors to Barbados. With more than 80 beaches, there’s a stretch of sand for every preference. At Alleynes Bay, the mile-long beach offers good swimming, sometimes in the company of turtles. Thunder Bay is known for the sound of waves crashing against an offshore coral reef and for outstanding snorkeling. Fyllis and I preferred the calm sea off the beach at Bath.

Beaches are beautiful in Barbados, but they’re only one reason to visit the island.

Fyllis and I enjoyed rediscovering its many alluring attributes on our recent return trip.

bados start at around $530. Fyllis and I opted to avoid the high-rise hotels that line the beaches. We stayed at the All Seasons Resort, a lovely hideaway with bungalows encircling an expansive lawn and a large swimming pool. Each cottage includes a bedroom, living room, kitchenette and front porch. Rates begin at $135 a night for two people. For more information, visit allseasonsresort.bb.

For meals, we chose casual beachfront eateries ranging from open-air restaurants to tiny hole-in-the-wall places, which give new meaning to the word “local.” A personal favorite was the Surfside Restaurant and Beach Bar (Highway 1, Holetown; 246432-2105). Bountiful portions of sides accompany entrees like the daily catch and pan-seared chicken.

For more information, see visitbarbados.org.

From page 16 Fyllis and I followed George’s recommendation during a tour and tasting at the Mount Gay distillery, founded in 1703 and the oldest commercial rum distillery in the world. Exhibits include historic documents and a hand-dug well that continues to provide water.

The visit began with an offering of rum punch and ended with a tasting of several products. Romal, our guide, offered tips on how to hold our glass, check each rum’s viscosity, and evaluate the taste as robust, complex, salty and so on.

This was one of several tours that Fyllis and I took to explore and experience various aspects of Barbados. An island safari lived up to its name. When our driver-guide Wayne told passengers in the open-air van to be pre-

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pared for a bumpy ride, he was understating the adrenaline-rushing jaunt. He delighted in leaving the bumpy, winding roads and turning onto even more bumpy, winding, muddy, potholed dirt paths through sugar cane fields. As we bounded along, Wayne narrated the drive with lessons on the island’s history, culture and legends.

Fishing villages, white-sand beaches On any island, fish is a staple of many people’s diets, and a visit to any of Barbados’ fishing villages introduces another facet of the local lifestyle. Generations of families who live in Tent Bay have trawled offshore waters for flying fish, mahi mahi and marlin. People in Skeetes Bay fish by boat and off the jetty, and the market serves as a focal point of the community.

Then there are the beaches, a major

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If you go Given the friendliness of the residents, it’s not surprising that Barbados is a safe destination for visitors. The U.S. Department of State’s list of countries with low crime rates ranks the island close to the top.

Round-trip flights from our area to Bar-

Makes a great gift!

BALTIMORE BEACON — MARCH 2024

19

PHOTO BY JASON SAULER PHOTOGRAPHY

Style Arts &

Ann Jimerson and Amos Townsend speak to schoolchildren about their experiences in Birmingham, Alabama, in the 1960s.

Our cover story continues on p. 20.

Fascinating biography from local author Walker later became an advocate for women’s rights and dress reform (i.e., allowing women to wear comfortable clothing).

She worked for the U.S. Postal Service and streamlined the certified mail process, giving us the system we use today. Walker’s lifelong perseverance was an inspiration for Altman, who wanted to tell readers about this brave American.

PHOTO BY KAREN SMITH

By Laura Melamed At 86, Baltimore writer Frances Altman has reinvented herself many times throughout her life. Her new book, Destiny’s Daughter, published last year, is a biography of a woman who also had to change with the times.

Altman was inspired to write the book more than a decade ago, after seeing a news clipping about Mary Edwards Walker, the first American woman to graduate medical school, in 1855.

She was also first (and only) female to win the Medal of Honor Award — the nation’s highest military decoration awarded for valor in combat. Walker, a suffragist, cared for injured soldiers during the Civil War until she was captured by Confederate soldiers while she was out gathering herbs.

She spent several months in a prison in Richmond before being released. Due to malnutrition in prison, Walker’s eyesight was permanently damaged, and it took months to recover her health.

“At my age, I was having a lot of empathy for what she was going through,” Altman said.

Author always loved to write Born in Los Angeles in 1937, Altman attended class in a one-room schoolhouse before moving to Missouri as a teenager.

She says she “just loved to write reports in high school…The faculty there encouraged me into continuing to write.”

One teacher in particular taught her how to be a stenographer. “Her goal was for every girl who came through [the school] to have her own career,” Altman remembered.

After high school, Altman indeed worked as a stenographer for a law firm. In her free time, she wrote commercials for a local country music radio station.

“It was fun, and I was pretty successful,” she said.

PIANO AT PEABODY is a week-long summer program for adults of all skill levels, led by faculty artists with jazz and classical backgrounds.

Frances Altman of Baltimore shows a copy of her new biography, Destiny’s Daughter, about the American heroine, Mary Edwards Walker. Altman has also written history and biography books for children.

Altman met her husband in Springfield, Missouri, and the couple spent the first six years of their marriage moving to different cities for his job. That’s how she learned to reinvent herself.

“I married someone who was traveling

to different cities, so every place we’d move, I’d get a different job,” she said.

At each job, she got more opportunities to write. “I’d get the job, and it always See BIOGRAPHY, page 21

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

History From page 1 It was also the year that thousands of Birmingham youngsters, ages six to teens, held a public demonstration in May called the Children’s Crusade. Young students left school and marched for three days.

Some, like Hrabowski, were jailed. Historians say 1963 was a turning point in the American Civil Rights Movement.

From Virginia to Alabama Before moving to Birmingham, Jimerson lived in Hopewell, Virginia, where her father was a chaplain at a federal penitentiary nearby. Though three years had passed since the 1954 U.S. Supreme Court Brown v. Board of Education decision, which found public school racial segregation unconstitutional, Virginia schools remained segregated.

“Segregation in Hopewell was still so

complete that I didn’t have much idea that any African Americans lived in Hopewell,” Jimerson said. “I was an innocent participant in [white residents’] massive resistance” to Brown.

When her father considered a new job in Alabama, Ann, nine years old, urged him to take the job to help bring people together.

So the family moved to Birmingham, where her father worked as executive director of the Alabama Council on Human Relations, which Dr. King said was the only group that “brought the two races together to solve shared problems.”

During the Jimersons’ nightly devotionals, Ann’s parents would talk about racial injustices and the unrest sweeping the country. The atmosphere in Birmingham was tense, she remembers. Her parents warned her and her four siblings not to discuss their father’s work or civil rights issues with their peers or teachers. Still, her family received anonymous, threaten-

BEACON BITS

Ongoing THEATER VOLUNTEER Chesapeake Shakespeare Company seeks volunteer ushers to help welcome patrons to their theater at 7 S. Calvert St., Baltimore. Duties include scanning tickets, showing patrons to their seats, and distributing parking vouchers. Performances take place at various times Thursdays through Sundays.

For more information and to volunteer, visit bit.ly/MarchVolunteerUsher.

Protection your loved ones deserve ...

MARCH 2024 — BALTIMORE BEACON

ing telephone calls.

about the Civil War,” he said.

Kids in Birmingham 1963

Recording unrecorded history

Jimerson talks about her childhood in Birmingham with others who were there over monthly Zoom meetings with around 20 to 30 participants.

Jimerson formed Kids in Birmingham 1963 as not only a support group, but a living history project, too. The group’s 65 “storytellers,” who live all across the country, have posted their memories on the organization’s website.

In addition, they received grants from the Alabama Humanities Alliance to work with local teachers on lesson plans for teaching Birmingham’s civil rights story, an effort they call the Coalition for True History. They have completed one grant and are now using the second.

“We wanted to do more than reminisce,” Jimerson explained. “We wanted to find effective ways to give back to Birmingham, with two areas of focus: education and reconciliation.”

“Most Birmingham students don’t know that history,” Jimerson said. She and Townsend also give talks at local schools, including the Summit School in Edgewater, Maryland.

Hrabowski worries that people today underappreciate the str uggles of the 1960s.

“Talking about the Civil Rights Movement today is as far removed as talking

Since 2015, Jimerson has also co-chaired Desegregation of Virginia Education (DOVE), an organization that collects and preserves records documenting the state’s refusal to desegregate public schools. Its volunteers gather correspondence, repor ts, photographs, personal papers, school board minutes, diaries, scrapbooks, yearbooks and records from groups both for and against integration.

So far, the group’s volunteers have recorded almost 200 oral histories of people who experienced school desegregation in the state.

“I love listening to people’s stories,” Jimerson said. “It’s an opportunity to capture history that has been lost. In some cases, the oral histories are the only histories of how school desegregation unfolded.”

During her career, Jimerson worked in social marketing and public health for 30 years. After she retired, she turned to civil rights efforts.

“I love playing a part in helping people make connections and seeing the difference it makes for young people to connect with us older folk — and for us older ones to connect with today’s youth. I love this work more than anything I’ve done. It feeds my soul.”

For more information, visit kidsinbirmingham1963.org and bit.ly/DOVEhistory.

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BALTIMORE BEACON — MARCH 2024

Biography From page 19 seemed like they’d say, ‘So could you write this?’ or ‘Could you do this for a newsletter?’ and I just sort of fell into writing.”

At the same time, Altman decided to study writing formally. “I was interested in writing, so I started taking classes,” she said.

One of her professors at Tulsa University told the class, “If you sell anything [you write], you’ll get an A,” Altman said. “So, I sold an article to the Future Farmers of America magazine. That was my very first piece that I sold.”

After Altman earned her bachelor’s degree, she landed a job at a community newspaper in Indianapolis.

Publishing for children, adults When she started to build a family, Altman became attuned to a younger audience. “I started writing more children’s literature,” she said.

Altman published children’s books with whimsical titles like Reggie the Goat and The Something Egg. Her publisher also gave her an assignment to write four biog-

raphies for children — her first foray into biographical writing.

She enjoyed finding obscure bits of history, and published a collection of 13 fictional stories featuring little-known facts about famous people such as Paul Revere.

Eventually, Altman and her husband settled in Chicago, where she wrote for the Arlington Day, a large community newspaper owned by the Chicago Sun Times.

Over time she worked her way up to become the “woman’s editor” of the paper which, in those days, meant overseeing the wedding announcements.

“You would write news that would tell about every silver button that was on the bridal gown and all the relatives that attended,” she remembered.

When the Chicago Sun Times shut down its community papers, Altman went to work for the competition, the Daily Herald.

As the managing editor of its Suburban Week, she wrote or edited theater reviews, movie reviews and feature stories.

All the while, she was able to make her own hours and work while her children were in school. She went into the office at about 7 a.m. and stayed until noon when kindergarten let out.

After her children went off to college, Altman got a 9 to 5 job as a food editor and wrote for farmers’ trade magazines. While working full-time, she earned a master’s degree in marketing from Roosevelt University.

“My storyline...sounds wacky,” Altman said, “because I’m doing all these things simultaneously.”

Later, she began teaching at Virginia Commonwealth University and North Central Arizona University.

Landing in Baltimore In 2011, Altman retired and moved to the Baltimore area to be near her daughter. She was far from finished with writing, though.

When she started writing a book about Walker, she began the in-depth research and travel that a biography demands.

Altman first visited the Virginia battle-

21

fields where Walker served, then the prison where Walker had been held captive.

When Covid hit, Altman was able to do the rest of her research online. She finally completed the manuscript, and the book was published last April by Apprentice House Press, the nation’s only student-run press, based at Loyola University Maryland in Baltimore.

“Everyone was being told to persevere” during the pandemic, Altman said. It was the perfect time to write about Mary Edwards Walker because that’s what Mary Edwards Walker did, Altman said. “She persevered.”

Altman is passionate about letting people know writing helps older adults persevere — and find hope.

Destiny’s Daughter can be purchased on Amazon.com and BarnesandNoble.com and found at the Baltimore County Public Library.

BEACON BITS

Ongoing BROMO ARTS TOWER PUBLIC HOURS Explore the Bromo Seltzer Arts Tower on Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Visit artists in their studios, check out the building’s museum on the 15th floor, and go into the clock room ($8 admission) to see the world’s largest four-dial, gravity-driven, non-chiming clock in action. The address is 21

BEACON BITS

S. Eutaw St., Baltimore. For more information, visit bromoseltzertower.com or

OF THE WORLD OBSERVATION LEVEL Ongoing TOP Looking for the best views of Baltimore? Take a trip to the 27

th

floor of the Baltimore World Trade Center and take in the sunset from the Top of the World Observation Level. Open Wednesdays through Sundays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (to 7 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays). Tickets are $6 for those 60+ and can be purchased in the lobby at 401 E. Pratt St., Baltimore. For more information, call (410) 837-8439.

NATIONAL DISASTER DISTRESS HELPLINE

Ongoing If you or someone you love is having a mental health crisis, call the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.

Counselors are available 24 hours a day, every day of the week, to support people experiencing a range of symptoms. Call 1-800-985-5990 for immediate crisis counseling. The helpline is confidential, and disaster survivors and responders can access the services in Spanish and American Sign Language. For more information, visit disasterdistress.samhsa.gov.

Mar. 14

EXPLORE IRELAND, IRISH HERITAGE

Visit Hampden Library on Thu., March 14 starting at 5:30 p.m. for a presentation by photographer Denny Lynch that includes a visual tour of Ireland as well as tips on researching Irish genealogy. The address is 3614 Falls Rd., Baltimore. Free. Registration not required. For more information, call (410) 396-6043.

FROM PAGE 22 ANSWERS TO SCRABBLE

ANSWERS TO CROSSWORD A S P S O P T R A N G E F L E A C R E W O N I O N H E R O T I L E D R O O M O B N O X I O U S F U M E S A M A O N E N A B A N O M O D A H A O B L O N G D I S T A N C E S B O A R I N N B A L I L U N C H I S O B S E R V E D A N T C O O E N E E T C A L T R N A Y E T T O B E O B S C E N E T E R S E E D G E T R E Y T I L T O G R E S L I E R A T E R O D S P L E A S

call (443) 874-3596.

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MARCH 2024 — BALTIMORE BEACON

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

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Across 1. Sssymbols of Egyptian royalty 5. Choose to be included or excluded from a mailing list 8. Series of mountains 13. Plague villain 14. The Love Boat characters 15. Bloomin’ ___ (appetizer) 16. Polygon in an architectural plan 17. White hat wearer 18. Like a bathroom floor 19. Cloud behind Pepe Le Pew 22. Author of code of ethics for Drs. 23. Tooth number for an upper molar 24. Apprehend 27. “I’ll take that as ___” 29. Up-to-date 30. The video to their song Take on Me has been viewed over one billion times 33. Comets’ paths 37. Wild pig 38. Rustic lodging 39. Home of the Indonesian International Film Festival 40. The cafeteria monitors are alert 45. “and some other stuff, too” 46. Pantry raider 47. Dove call 48. New York to London cruise dir.

49. Key near the space bar 50. Single-stranded carrier of genetic info.

52. Still innocent 60. Abrupt 61. On the cutting ___ 62. Deuce beater 63. More like the fox than the crow 64. Commit a pinball violation 65. Man-eating monster 66. Guilty, Not Guilty, and Nolo Contendere 67. Swallowed a swallow 68. Partners to cones and reels

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Scrabble answers on p. 21.

By Stephen Sherr

2. Opposite of a neat freak 3. Lowly laborer 4. Polynesian island nation 5. Its thickest variety is “Most Stuf ” 6. Nation south of the Ecuador 7. Ark boarding groups 8. Rounded building 9. Japanese ‘toons 10. North-flowing African river 11. “As the saying ___...”

12. Conclusion 14. Chinese president, ___ Kai-shek 20. One of Marvel’s mutants 21. Last part out for most newborns 24. Chivalrous 25. In the neighborhood of 26. He voiced five characters in Who Framed Roger Rabbit 28. Lyrical poet 29. Morning Joe network 30. “Do you live in ___?”

31. Actress Hayes or Hunt 32. Comment to the audience 34. Soldier in a Middle Earth army 35. End for cappucc- or marasch36. The last part of PIN or SSN 41. They hold your horses 42. Captivated by 43. Frozen dessert 44. Longest units of geologic time 49. Transporting shipping containers 51. Golden Globe nominee 52. Scream bloody murder 53. Shallowest of the Great Lakes 54. VHS competitor 55. Do post-production work on a movie 56. Gawk at 57. Therefore 58. One of The Breakfast Club archetypes 59. Sometimes they are bigger than your stomach 60. Recipe amt.

Answers on page 21

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BALTIMORE BEACON — MARCH 2024

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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.

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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).

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BEACON BITS

Mar. 9

POETRY DISCUSSION (VIRTUAL)

Celebrate Nobel Prizewinning poet Louise Glück at this online poetry discussion facilitated by the Enoch Pratt Free Library. This free event takes place on Sat., March 9 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. For more information, including the Zoom link and a list of poems to be discussed, visit bit.ly/MarchPoetryDiscussion.

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