March 2024 | DC Beacon

The

The Bachelorettes of the DMV

By Laura Sturza

The hope that lasting love can happen later in life recently got a huge boost, thanks to Joan Vassos of Rockville and Nancy Hulkower of Alexandria. Both appeared on the first season of the popular ABC program “The Golden Bachelor,” which premiered last fall.

The show is a spinoff of the reality TV shows “The Bachelor,” which premiered in 2002, and the 2003 series “The Bachelorette.” The franchise produces romance and relationship programs that offer unmarried contestants a chance to find love — on national television.

Not only did Vassos and Hulkower become ambassadors of the idea that romance is possible for people over 60, but they also got an unexpected bonus: new friends among the 22 contestants.

When they flew to Los Angeles last August in the hopes of finding love and marriage, they didn’t know that a different type of deep relationship awaited them.

“The camaraderie and the friendships with the [other] women...truly, I did not expect it,” Hulkower said.

“I went on looking for love, like everybody else did. What came together was so much more than that. We all really stuck with each other and [have] supported one another since then.”

While neither woman was among the final three who were selected to go on hometown dates with 72-year-old Gerry Turner, the pair invited four of their fellow contestants, who have become close friends, to this area for a visit. They got to show their besties around the nation’s capital in February.

‘Like summer camp’

Contestants learn about the show through online national casting calls, such

Nancy Hulkower, 61, of Alexandria, Virginia, greets Gerry Turner, star of “The Golden Bachelor,” an ABC reality TV show whose first season attracted more than six million viewers last fall. Hulkower was one of two local residents chosen to appear with 20 other bachelorettes on the show. Although Hulkower didn't get to marry Turner, she made good friends among her fellow contestants.

as the one taking place now for those DMV residents who hope to follow in Hulkower and Vassos’ footsteps. Hulkower, 61, first heard about the casting call from her niece, who encouraged her to apply.

The sense of community that grew from their appearance on the show has been transformative. Before participating as a contestant, Vassos, 61, said she was used

to living as a widow in a couples’ world since nearly all of her friends were married or in relationships. But then she “walked into this room with 21 other women who were in the same boat as me.” Hulkower agreed. “It’s like being at summer camp, where you make friends for life.”

Before leaving for Los Angeles, both

Take note of hallucinations

Funny how the mind works. Well, at least it’s funny how my mind works.

A few years ago, as my vision began to change with age, I started to “see things” that weren’t there.

One day, I was lying on a physical therapist’s table when I noticed that the tiny random holes in the ceiling tiles above me started to look like sheet music.

I saw what appeared to be staffs with notes, chords, almost a symphonic score. But when I concentrated on it, I couldn’t actually make out what the music would sound like.

subconscious mind was eager for more music, wherever it could find it.

FROM THE PUBLISHER

By Stuart P. Rosenthal

The notes seemed haphazard, with chords that would be impossible to really play. I shook my head and tried to refocus, but the image refused to go away until I got up off the table.

After that, I began to have similar experiences whenever in a position where I found it difficult to focus clearly — whether from being too far away, as with the ceiling, or too close, as with the enameled tiles on a bathroom wall.

Anyway, I began to get the message: My

As long-time readers know, I returned to my childhood hobby of playing the piano about six years ago. Now, not only do I try to practice at least a little every day, I have also returned to composing piano music, something else I did as a schoolboy.

Three years ago — shortly after those subliminal music messages began — I took a seven-week composing “sabbatical” from my Beacon duties to see if I perhaps had some music inside of me wanting to get out.

As you may recall from my columns at the time, I was also wondering if this could become a new “calling” for me, when (if?) I decide to retire.

I was quite pleased with the results from that break. I wrote three piano pieces that I liked, and set up my own music website (stuartsmelodies.com) so people could hear them and download the sheet music if they wanted to.

Fast forward a couple of years, and once

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.

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.

Beacon The

The Beacon is a monthly newspaper dedicated to inform, serve, and entertain the citizens of the Greater Washington DC area, and is privately owned. Other editions serve Greater Baltimore and Howard County, Md. Readership exceeds 400,000.

Subscriptions are available via first-class mail ($36) or third-class mail ($12), prepaid with order. D.C. and Maryland residents: add 6 percent for sales tax. Send subscription order to the office listed below.

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

Publisher/Editor – Stuart P. Rosenthal

President/Associate Publisher – Judith K. Rosenthal

Executive Vice President – Gordon Hasenei

Managing Editor – Margaret Foster

Art Director – Kyle Gregory

Vice President of Operations – Roger King

Advertising Representatives –Dan Kelly, M.K. Phillips, Alan Spiegel

Marketing & Operations Manager – Ashley Griffin

Assistant Editor – Ana Preger Hart

The Beacon, P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915 (301) 949-9766 • Email: info@thebeaconnewspapers.com

Website: www.theBeaconNewspapers.com

Submissions: The Beacon welcomes reader contributions. Deadline for editorial is the 10th of the month preceding the month of publication. Deadline for ads is the 15th of the month preceding the month of publication. See page 39 for classified advertising details. Please mail or email all submissions.

© Copyright 2024 The Beacon Newspapers, Inc.

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

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 to 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

TO SCREEN OR NOT TO SCREEN?

A doctor clarifies the choices older men have to make about their prostates

AN EXTRA X (CHROMOSOME)

Researchers learn why autoimmune diseases mostly affect women

GROW YOUR OWN GREENS

Microgreens are popular, healthy and easy to grow from seeds at home

SPEED IS KEY

Know a stroke’s symptoms — face and arm weakness, slurring — and act fast

Organs and glands we can live without

By Robert H. Shmerling, M.D.

There was a time when pediatricians routinely recommended tonsil removal, even for healthy children — including me. As far as I can tell, I suffered no ill effects — plus, I got extra ice cream!

That practice is no longer routine. But it does raise an interesting question: Why do we have body parts that can be safely removed? If they’re not needed, why do humans have them in the first place?

One theory is that these nonessential organs and glands once served important roles in the lives of our evolutionary ancestors but now represent anatomic remnants. For example, it was long thought that the appendix helped our predecessors digest food, but over time became obsolete.

And some organs are supremely useful during certain stages of life but then become expendable.

Here are seven removable parts of the body:

Appendix. This organ is about the size of your little finger and hangs from the lower right side of your colon. For reasons that aren’t clear, this part of the intestinal tract sometimes becomes blocked, infected or inflamed. Aptly enough, the word appendicitis means inflammation of the appendix. While it may settle down with antibiotic treatment, emergency surgical removal (an appendectomy) is often necessary.

Tonsils . A network of lymph nodes throughout the body is part of the immune surveillance system that helps trap dangerous invaders such as bacteria and

viruses. Consider your two tonsils as larger, specialized lymph nodes watching out for these intruders. They are located at the back of the throat just to the sides of and behind the uvula, the dangling piece of tissue above them.

Now, removing the tonsils (a tonsillectomy) is only recommended for people with repeated bouts of bacterial throat infections such as strep throat, a condition common in children. Once removed, other lymphoid tissue, including the actual lymph nodes, can take over the job.

Adenoids. Situated in the back of the nose, where the nasal passages meet the mouth and throat, adenoids are similar to tonsils. They can also become inflamed, infected and swollen.

When the tonsils are removed, the adenoids are generally removed at the same time. As is true for the tonsils, other lymphoid tissue takes over when the adenoids are gone.

Gallbladder. The gallbladder sits just under the liver in the upper right part of the abdomen. It stores bile made in the liver, and releases it into the digestive tract when needed to help digest fatty foods.

The gallbladder may need to be removed (a cholecystectomy) if it becomes inflamed. Most often, this occurs due to infection or gallstones, which are a hardened collection of bile. In some cases, rest and antibiotics can control gallbladder inflammation so that removal can be delayed or even avoided.

Uterus. This remarkable reproductive

organ has a single purpose: to support fetal growth until birth.

When necessary, the uterus can generally be removed (hysterectomy) without impairing health. Common reasons for removal include painful or excessive menstruation, benign growths called fibroids that cause pain or bleeding, or cancer.

Thymus gland. This small gland sits high in the upper chest behind the breastbone. In a fetus or newborn, it’s quite important in the development and maturation of the immune system. But adults can live well without it.

Surgery to remove the thymus may be recommended if the thymus becomes cancerous, or if a person develops the autoimmune condition myasthenia gravis.

Spleen. Like adenoids and tonsils, the spleen is made up of lymphoid tissue. It filters the blood, removing infectious organisms, aging blood cells, and other abnormal cells traveling through the bloodstream. But sometimes the spleen becomes overactive and begins removing healthy cells.

For example, idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) may develop when platelets (clotting blood cells that prevent excessive bleeding) are removed from circulation. With few platelets left in the bloodstream, bruising and bleeding may be life-threatening.

Although medications can help, removal of the spleen (a splenectomy) may be necessary. Or sometimes trauma to the spleen, especially after sports injuries and car accidents, causes internal bleeding,

which may lead to splenectomy.

People who lack a spleen are more prone to certain infections, so if removal isn’t urgent, a number of vaccinations are recommended before splenectomy.

The bottom line

I’ve heard it said that at least half of all body parts are unnecessary. That’s a myth.

But as with most myths, there is some truth to it: There are indeed many body parts that can be safely removed. That said, it’s generally best to avoid unnecessary surgery and keep the parts you were born with, if you can.

Sure, you can survive and thrive despite having your appendix removed. But our understanding about so-called spare parts may change over time.

The appendix is a good example. Researchers have discovered that the appendix may play a role in immune development, and stores “good bacteria” to repopulate the gut in case of future illness.

And there is evidence that removing the thymus may slightly increase the risk of cancer, autoimmune disorders and death.

Someday we may discover important functions for other body parts we now consider expendable. And maybe then I’ll wish I had my tonsils back.

Robert H. Shmerling, M.D., is a senior faculty editor at Harvard Health Publishing and an Editorial Advisory Board member for Harvard Health Publishing.

© 2024 Harvard University. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Making sense of prostate cancer screening in older men

By Howard LeWine, M.D.

Q: How long should men who have always had a normal PSA continue to get the test? Even if I have an abnormal level, I am not sure I would want a prostate biopsy or treatment with surgery or radiation.

A: While some guidelines suggest stopping prostate cancer screening with a blood test for prostate specific antigen (PSA) after age 70, the decision to continue depends on your general health and life expectancy.

The reason: Most prostate cancers are low-grade and will not shorten a man’s life or diminish his quality of life.

On the other hand, diagnosing highergrade cancer at an earlier stage could lead to treatment to keep the cancer from spreading.

In the past, a man with a high or rising PSA level would have to choose between having an immediate prostate biopsy (to locate any cancer and assess its severity) or living with some uncertainty.

Today, other tests can help predict the presence of cancer, especially cancer that

is more likely to spread. Examples include MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), specific subtypes of PSA blood tests, and urine testing for specific genetic markers.

For men who do opt for prostate cancer screening but may not want immediate treatment even if cancer is likely, the two main strategies are watchful waiting and active surveillance.

Watchful waiting

Watchful waiting either before or after a biopsy means you don’t get regular PSA tests or other monitoring. Only if symptoms occur would you have further diagnostic testing to determine whether and how to treat the symptoms.

Active surveillance

An active surveillance strategy requires a prostate biopsy first to identify the cancer’s size and probability of spreading.

High-grade and many intermediate-grade prostate cancers don’t qualify for active surveillance because treatment usually begins

See PROSTATE CANCER, page 6

Housing Communities

District of Columbia

❏ Chevy Chase House (See ad on page 11)

Maryland

❏ Brooke Grove (See ad on page 12)

❏ Charles E. Smith Life Communities (See ad on page 15)

❏ Churchill Senior Living (See ad on page 8)

❏ Grandview, The (See ad on page 7)

❏ Homecrest House (See ad on page 17)

❏ Leggett, The (See ad on page 24)

❏ Park View Bladensburg (See ad on page 32)

❏ Park View Columbia (See ad on page 32)

❏ Park View Emerson (See ad on page 32)

❏ Park View Laurel (See ad on page 32)

❏ Riderwood (See ads on pages 1, 7)

❏ Ring House (See ad on page 15)

Virginia

❏ Ashby Ponds (See ads on pages 1, 7)

❏ Culpepper Garden (See ad on page 17)

❏ Falcons Landing (See ad on page 40)

❏ Greenspring (See ads on pages 1, 7)

❏ Residences at North Hill (See ad on page 5)

❏ Sommerset (See ad on page 13)

❏ Woodleigh Chase/Erickson (See ad on page 7)

Clinical Health Studies

❏ Kidney Disease Screening (See ad on page 10)

Why autoimmune diseases strike women

By Lauran Neergaard

Women are far more likely than men to get autoimmune diseases, when an out-ofwhack immune system attacks their own bodies — and new research may finally explain why.

It’s all about how the body handles females’ extra X chromosome, Stanford University researchers reported last month. This finding could lead to better ways to detect a long list of diseases that are hard to diagnose and treat.

“This transforms the way we think about this whole process of autoimmunity, especially the male-female bias,” said University of Pennsylvania immunologist E. John Wherry, who wasn’t involved in the study.

More than 24 million Americans, by some estimates up to 50 million, have an autoimmune disorder — diseases such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis and dozens more. About 4 of every 5 patients are women, a mystery that has baffled scientists for decades.

One theory is that the X chromosome might be a culprit. After all, females have two X chromosomes while males have one X and one Y.

The new research, published in the journal Cell, shows that the extra X is involved — but in an unexpected way.

Special RNA found only in women

Our DNA is carried inside each cell in

23 pairs of chromosomes, including that final pair that determines biological sex.

The X chromosome is packed with hundreds of genes, far more than males’ much smaller Y chromosome. Every female cell must switch off one of its X chromosome copies, to avoid getting a toxic double dose of all those genes.

Performing that so-called X-chromosome inactivation is a special type of RNA called Xist, pronounced like “exist.” This long stretch of RNA parks itself in spots along a cell’s extra X chromosome, attracts proteins that bind to it in weird clumps, and silences the chromosome.

Stanford dermatologist Dr. Howard Chang was exploring how Xist does its job when his

Prostate cancer

From page 5

right away. However, this strategy is an option for men who would be comfortable with close monitoring for low-grade cancer.

Active surveillance involves more frequent PSA testing (to look for any rise in the level over time) and likely periodic prostate biopsies.

Your doctor might order an MRI or a urine test for genetic markers to determine when a repeat biopsy is needed. If and when evidence arises that the cancer has become more active, then treatment would begin.

Studies comparing men with low-grade

lab identified nearly 100 of those stuck-on proteins. Chang recognized many as related to skin autoimmune disorders — patients can have “autoantibodies” that mistakenly attack those normal proteins.

“That got us thinking: These are the known ones. What about the other proteins in Xist?” Chang said. Maybe this molecule, found only in women, “could somehow organize proteins in such a way as to activate the immune system.”

If true, Xist by itself couldn’t cause autoimmune disease or all women would be affected.

Scientists have long thought it takes a

See AUTOIMMUNITY, page 9

prostate cancer who choose active surveillance rather than immediate surgery or radiation show similar outcomes and life expectancy.

By choosing active surveillance, a man can delay or even avoid treatment side effects, such as erectile dysfunction and incontinence. The downside is the small risk of delaying treatment of a cancer that grows faster than expected.

Howard LeWine, M.D., is an internist at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston and assistant professor at Harvard Medical School. For additional consumer health information, visit health.harvard.edu.

© 2023 Harvard University. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Try growing healthy microgreens indoors

By Jessica Damiano

Microgreens have been popping up as garnishes at high-end restaurants, but they’re more than just a gourmet trick of the trade.

The 2-to-3-inch seedlings of edible plants, which add a burst of color and flavor to food, are packed with nutrients and can make for a fun indoor gardening project.

At an average retail price of about $30 per tray, the little nutritional powerhouses can be prohibitively expensive to buy fully grown.

But growing your own at home is cheap, quick and easy.

You’ll need a dome-covered seed-starting tray or a roughly 2-inch-deep plastic

lidded takeout container with holes poked in its bottom for drainage; a drip tray or rimmed baking sheet to collect drained water; seed-starting potting mix; a spray bottle; a sunny window and, of course, seeds. A grow light and a small fan are recommended but optional.

Many seeds to choose from

Many catalogs and garden centers sell mixed microgreen seed packs that contain a variety of seeds selected and combined for their synchronized germination times. You can buy those or mix your own batch from new or leftover seeds. Or grow just a single variety. It’s up to you.

If mixing seeds yourself, select ones that will sprout at the same time. Arugula,

broccoli, cabbage, kale, mustards, mizuna, nasturtium and radish are among the fastest growers, typically germinating in a week or less.

Beets and chards should sprout in 10-14 days, while parsley and dill can take up to three weeks.

Do not grow microgreens of nightshade vegetables, such as eggplant, ground cherry, pepper, potato, tomatillo or tomato. Their leaves contain toxic alkaloids and should not be consumed.

Simple steps to an edible garden

Fill your seed tray with the seed-starting potting mix and moisten it with water, then sprinkle a moderately dense layer of seeds over the mix. Press them into the soil with your fingers, but don’t bury them.

Spray the seeds and the soil’s surface with water, then place the domed lid or plastic cover over the container, slightly askew. If you don’t have a lid or cover, lightly lay plastic wrap over the tray. Do not seal it tightly.

Place the planted tray on a drip tray or rimmed baking sheet in a warm, 65-to-70degree room. Mist daily to keep the soil lightly but evenly moist.

Alternatively, you can add one-half inch of water to the drip tray and allow the soil to soak it up through the container’s

drainage holes; if water remains in the tray at the end of the day, dump it and use less next time.

When seedlings sprout, remove the cover and place the tray directly in front of your brightest window or under grow lights set to run for 16 hours daily. Continue misting the soil surface once a day or bottom watering as needed to keep the soil moist but not soggy.

Running a small fan nearby is optional but would help prevent mold and mildew, which could destroy your crop.

Within a few days of sprouting, you will notice the appearance of cotyledons, or “seed leaves,” which are usually generically oval. The plant’s first distinctive true leaves will appear shortly after, signaling it’s time to harvest your microgreens.

Using sharp scissors, clip stems just above the soil surface, and enjoy your homegrown microgreens over soups and salads or in sandwiches, smoothies and stir-fries.

Then, sprinkle more seeds over the soil to grow your next crop.

Jessica Damiano writes a weekly gardening column for the AP and publishes the award-winning Weekly Dirt Newsletter. Sign up for weekly gardening tips and advice at jessicadamiano.substack.com. AP

combination of genetic susceptibility and an environmental trigger, such as an infection or injury, for the immune system to run amok. For example, the Epstein-Barr virus is linked to multiple sclerosis.

Lab mice help with discovery Chang’s team decided to engineer male lab mice to artificially make Xist — without silencing their only X chromosome — and see what happened.

Researchers also specially bred mice susceptible to a lupus-like condition that

can be triggered by a chemical irritant.

The mice that produced Xist formed its hallmark protein clumps and, when triggered, developed lupus-like autoimmunity at levels similar to females, the team concluded.

“We think that’s really important, for Xist RNA to leak out of the cell to where the immune system gets to see it. You still needed this environmental trigger to cause the whole thing to kick off,” explained Chang, who is paid by the Howard Hughes Medical Institute, which also supports The Associated Press’ Health and Science Department.

Beyond mice, researchers also examined blood samples from 100 patients — and uncovered autoantibodies targeting Xist-associated proteins that scientists hadn’t previously linked to autoimmune disorders. A potential reason, Chang suggests: standard tests for autoimmunity were made using male cells.

Lots more research is necessary, but

the findings “might give us a shorter path to diagnosing patients that look clinically and immunologically quite different,” said Penn’s Wherry.

“You may have autoantibodies to Protein A and another patient may have autoantibodies to Proteins C and D,” but knowing they’re all part of the larger Xist complex allows doctors to better hunt dis-

ease patterns, he added.

“Now we have at least one big part of the puzzle of biological context.”

Stanford’s Chang wonders if it may even be possible to one day interrupt the process. “How does that go from RNA to abnormal cells? This will be a next step of the investigation.”

Understanding and reducing stroke risks

By Family Features

Stroke is the second leading cause of death worldwide, according to the World Health Organization. It will affect 1 in 4 adults over the age of 25 globally. A stroke occurs when the blood supply to the brain is disrupted, and it can result in oxygen starvation, brain damage and loss of function.

There are two main types of strokes. Ischemic strokes occur when a blood vessel carrying oxygen and nutrients to the brain is blocked by a clot. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 87% of strokes are ischemic.

Hemorrhagic strokes are less common but can be more serious. They occur when a weakened blood vessel ruptures and begins leaking blood.

Because a stroke can cause lasting dis-

ability and pain for those impacted and their loved ones, it’s important to learn how to identify the signs and symptoms of stroke, how to reduce risk factors, and where to go for timely treatment.

Consider this information from the experts at Cerenovus, who are committed to changing the trajectory of stroke and offering a broad portfolio of devices used in the endovascular treatment of stroke.

Know the symptoms; act fast

If you suspect you or a loved one is experiencing a stroke, acting F.A.S.T. is critical in getting the timely treatment necessary to survive. If you recognize the signs and symptoms of a stroke — Face weakness, Arm weakness and Speech slurring

Connect-A-Ride (CAR): Free transportation referral service for people age 50+ and adults with disabilities.

Transportation Network Directory: Detailed online & print guide to public, private, and non-profit transportation services.

Ride On -and- Metrobus: Ride On and most Metrobuses in Montgomery County are free for older adults and persons with disabilities with Senior SmarTrip card, Medicare card with photo ID, or MetroAccess card.

Senior SmarTrip card: Ride free or at a discount on Metrorail with a Senior SmarTrip card (age 65+).

Call-n-Ride: Free and discounted taxi services to eligible low-income adults age 63+ and adults with disabilities.

Senior Connection: Free escorted transportation services for adults age 60+ through a volunteer network.

VillageRides: Helps neighbors age in place.  Call to find out whether you live in a VillageRides area.

MetroAccess: A shared-ride, door-to-door service for people who generally cannot use public transportation due to disability.

Medicaid

Free transportation for Medicaid-covered appointments may be available.

301-738-3252 connectaride@accessjca.org

240-777-1246 montgomerycountymd.gov/tnd

Ride On: 311 Metrobus: 202-637-7000 montgomerycounty.gov/ dot-transit/seniors.html

888-762-7874

301-948-5409 montgomerycountymd.gov/ dot-transit/call-n-ride

301-962-0820 info@seniorconnectionmc.org

301-255-4212 villagerides@accessjca.org

301-562-5360 wmata.com/service/ accessibility/metro-access

— it’s T ime to call for help.

Reducing the amount of time between the onset of stroke and treatment can make a difference in how well the brain, arms, legs, speech and thinking are able to recover. The longer a stroke goes untreated, the greater the chances are of experiencing long-term disability, brain damage or death.

Reduce stroke risks

While strokes can be devastating and deadly, up to 90% are preventable, according to the World Stroke Organization, and many risk factors can be controlled before they cause a stroke.

You can decrease your risk by managing conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity and atrial fibrillation (AFib); ceasing smoking; eating a healthy diet; getting regular exercise; and taking medications prescribed for you.

It’s also important to know that communities of color are disproportionately affected by stroke risk factors and have poorer experiences when it comes to timeliness and access to stroke care, referral patterns, treatment utilization and outcomes, according to research published in the Journal of Stroke and Cerebrovascular Diseases

In fact, the risk of having a first stroke is nearly twice as high for Black people, according to the CDC, and members of the Black community have the highest rate of death due to stroke.

Additionally, according to the American Stroke Association, non-white stroke pa-

tients are less likely to arrive by EMS, and experience longer emergency department waiting times compared to white patients.

Know where to go

For every minute a stroke occurs, 1.9 million brain cells are lost. So, the longer a stroke goes untreated, the greater the chances of experiencing long-term disability and brain damage.

That’s why it’s critical to seek immediate treatment at the nearest comprehensive (or Level 1) stroke center. These facilities offer a full spectrum of neuroendovascular care, which can help patients taken directly there survive without long-term disabilities.

Understand treatment options

Seeking immediate treatment for stroke means you have more treatment options available, such as being eligible to receive tissue plasminogen activator or mechanical thrombectomy (MT) for ischemic stroke.

MT, a minimally invasive blood clot retrieval procedure, helps improve the chances you’ll survive an ischemic stroke and make a full recovery.

Treatment options for hemorrhagic stroke include surgery to remove, repair or clip a ruptured aneurysm.

If you or a loved one experience signs of stroke, seek immediate emergency medical services. To learn more about stroke risks and treatment options, visit jnjmedtech.com.

Content courtesy of Cerenovus. © 2023 Cerenovus

Treatments for a persistent stuffed nose

By Howard LeWine, M.D.

Q: My nose constantly feels congested, especially on the right side. I don’t have any other symptoms. What might be causing it?

A: The nasal block you feel is likely due to a chronic condition or obstruction that is reducing the amount of air passing through your nose. Allergies or a chronic sinus problem might be the cause.

The insides of your nose and sinuses are lined with a layer of sensitive tissue called the mucosa. They can become chronically inflamed, usually by allergies, reducing the space left for airflow.

Potential structural issues leading to nasal obstruction include:

• Enlarged turbinates. The turbinates are structures inside the nose that warm and filter air as it passes. Environmental irritants (such as smoke), hormone changes, and al-

lergies and chronic sinus problems can inflame the mucosa lining the turbinates. As they swell up, the nasal passages narrow.

• Nasal valve compromise. That’s a fancy name describing a structural narrowing in certain areas of the nasal passages. It can occur as a result of injury, the nasal structure you were born with, nose surgery or simply aging.

• A deviated septum. The septum is the wall dividing the left and right sides of the nose. You might have been born with a crooked septum, or it might have become misshapen in an accident. A deviated septum that was never a problem before can cause symptoms if there’s also nasal valve compromise and a loss of support tissues.

• Nasal polyps. These noncancerous (benign) tumors grow along mucosa or sinuses and can block airflow.

The cause of nasal obstruction won’t be

as plain as the nose on your face, pardon the pun. You’ll probably need to see an ear, nose and throat specialist (ENT), also called an otolaryngologist, to figure out what the problem is.

The ENT will ask about your medical history and the symptoms you’re experiencing, and then look inside your nose to see what’s blocking airflow. The specialist might also order allergy testing.

Different treatments available

Strategies to reclaim real estate in your nasal passages depend on the cause of obstruction.

If you have allergies, sinus problems or enlarged turbinates, your doctor can prescribe a steroid nasal spray or other med-

ications to tame inflammation. If the turbinates don’t shrink with nasal sprays, you may need an office procedure or surgery to reduce them.

For passageways narrowed from nasal valve compromise, the doctor may first recommend some non-invasive therapies, starting with a trial of a steroid nasal spray. You can also try to open the nasal passages by using nasal dilators — either an adhesive strip you wear on the nose to gently pull the passages apart or small cone-shaped devices that you insert into the nostrils.

The only way to straighten a deviated septum is with a surgery called a septoplasty.

© 2024 Harvard University. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Easy-to-use toothbrushes and flossers

Dear Savvy Senior,

I have arthritis and hand tremors that affect my grip strength and make brushing my teeth difficult. I’ve read that electric toothbrushes can help make the job easier. Can you make any recommendations?

—Arthritic Alice

Dear Alice,

For those who suffer from arthritis or have other hand weaknesses or tremors, an electric toothbrush is an often turned to solution for keeping your teeth clean. At the push of a button, an electric toothbrush will do everything but shake, rattle and roll to do the cleaning for you. Most come with a wide, slightly weighted handle and rubberized grip that make them easier and more comfortable to hold on to. How to choose

smartphone integrations and other features. How much are you willing to spend?

By Jim Miller

Brushing action: Brush heads tend to be either “spinning” (they rotate very fast in one direction, then the other, and bristles may pulsate in and out) or “sonic” (they vibrate side to side). Both methods are effective and a matter of personal preference.

Electric versus battery: Choose a brush with a built-in rechargeable battery and an electric charging station. They’re much more convenient and cost effective than toothbrushes that use replaceable batteries.

a smartphone or tablet via Bluetooth to track brushing habits. What extra features do you want?

Best products

According to Consumer Reports — an independent, nonprofit product testing and research organization — the top electric toothbrushes for 2024 are the Oral-B iO 7 Series ($150); Oral B Genius X 10000 ($200); Bruush Electric Toothbrushes ($95); and the Philips Sonicare ProtectiveClean 6100 ($120). The top rated low-cost electric toothbrush is the Brightline 86700 ($30).

The New York Times’ Wirecutter, another popular product reviewing service, rates the Oral-B Pro 1000 ($40) as the best electric toothbrush, followed by the

Philips Sonicare 4100 ($40).

Easier flossing tools

If flossing has become challenging too, a good alternative to traditional string floss are floss picks. These are disposable plastic-handle tools that have floss threaded onto them, which makes them easier to hold and use.

DenTek, Oral-B and others sell packages for a few dollars, or check out the Listerine UltraClean Access Flosser, which comes with a toothbrush-like handle for a better reach.

Some other flossing products to consider that are easy on the hands are the

Dozens of different electric toothbrushes are on the market today. Here are several points to consider to help you choose:

Cost: The cost of electric toothbrushes will range from $10 for a model with replaceable AA batteries to more than $200 for some models with rechargeable lithiumion batteries, multiple brushing modes,

Brushing timer: Since most dentists recommend brushing for two minutes (most adults average about 45 seconds), get an electric toothbrush with a built-in brushing timer — most have them. Some brushes will even split the two minutes onto four 30-second intervals and will notify you when it’s time to switch to a different quadrant of your mouth.

Extra features : Most higher-priced electric brushes come with extra features like cleaning modes, pressure sensors, a charge-level display and more. There are even “smart” toothbrushes that connect to

Attendees at the Montgomery County Commission on Aging’s December 2023 Meeting and Community for a Lifetime Award Ceremony.

Your Commission on Aging, Explained

Older adults constitute the fastestgrowing demographic in the County. The Montgomery County Commission on Aging (COA) serves as a valued voice and advocate for them.

The COA was established in 1974 under the Federal Older Americans Act of 1965. All commissioners are volunteers appointed by the County Executive and confirmed by the County Council. Its vision is to enable older adults to live quality lives, regardless of their abilities, so that Montgomery County is “Longevity Ready” and their community for a lifetime.

The COA identifies significant issues where its voice on the needs of older adults can make a difference. It advises the County Executive, County Council, the Department of

Health and Human Services (including Aging and Disability Services and the Area Agency on Aging), as well as other County departments on the interests, needs and problems of older adults in the County.

Annual Public Forum

The Commission holds an annual Public Forum, inviting both local and national experts to explore topics of importance to older adults. All older adults in the County are encouraged to attend and provide feedback.

Recent Forum topics have focused on technology for aging in place and ways to improve home care. The May 2024 Public Forum will focus on housing issues. Look for details on the COA website: bit.ly/MoCoCOA

Ambassador Program

The COA’s ambassadors are Commissioners who go out into the community to inform residents about the County’s many services, and to obtain feedback from attendees on their concerns and issues. For upcoming sessions, check out the Upcoming Events on the COA website.

50+ in Montgomery County

The COA also co-produces “50+ in Montgomery County,” a monthly cable television program that spotlights older adults in the community and describes County services and programs, as well as activities of interest. For channels and schedule, or to view past episodes, visit: bit.ly/MCCOATV

Library Liaisons

Did you know that every Montgomery County library has an Older Adult section? Every branch also has a COA volunteer serving as a liaison. During monthly visits, the liaison ensures the older adult section is organized and well-stocked. With the librarian, the COA liaison periodically evaluates the materials provided.

Life Transitions as We Age

To read, print or download a copy of the COA’s detailed and useful guide to planning ahead on healthcare, housing, legal and financial matters, visit: bit.ly/MoCoLifeTransitions

www.montgomerycountymd.gov/senior

How do natural and added sugars differ?

By Howard LeWine, M.D.

Q: I’m trying to cut back on my sugar intake, but so many natural foods have sugar. What’s a good way to approach this?

A: A healthy way to think about sugar is to consider its source.

Natural sugars are found in whole fruits, vegetables, milk products and grains. Fruit and some vegetables contain forms of sugar called fructose, glucose and sucrose, while milk contains lactose, and grains have maltose.

Consuming these kinds of whole foods is smart. Current guidelines recommend you eat about two cups of fruit and two to three cups of vegetables per day, as well as six ounces of whole grains, such as brown rice, oats and quinoa.

Dental products

From page 13

WaterPik Power Flosser ($15), which gently vibrates to dislodge embedded food particles between your teeth.

Or consider a water flosser, which uses high-pressured pulsating water to remove food particles and plaque and will stimulate your gums in the process.

WaterPik offers a variety of water flossing products at prices ranging from $40 to

Whole fruits, vegetables and grains also contain fiber, phytochemicals, antioxidants and various vitamins and minerals you need for optimal health. People need to eat more of these foods, not less, so don’t shun them to curb sugar intake.

In comparison, refined sugar is what’s added to food products to improve taste (which is why it’s also known as “added” sugar). Refined sugar comes from cane, sugar beets and corn, which are processed to isolate the sugar. Added refined sugars include sucrose (table sugar), glucose and high-fructose corn syrup.

The top food sources of added refined sugar in Americans’ diets include soft drinks, fruit-flavored drinks, flavored yogurts, cereals, cookies and cakes.

But refined sugar is also found in most

$140, as does Oral Breeze, which offers the Shower Breeze and Quick Breeze water flossers (around $40) that connect directly to your faucet or shower head.

Dental care products like these can be found at your local pharmacy or retailer that sells personal care items, or online.

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

processed foods, including products you might not associate with sweetness, like soups, bread, cured meats and ketchup.

Your body responds differently

When you eat foods that naturally contain sugar, your body digests those foods more slowly because whole fruits, vegetables, milk and grains also have plenty of other components — particularly fiber — that slow the digestion process. In contrast, people often don’t feel full after eating foods high in refined sugar, especially processed foods.

A diet high in refined sugar is associated with numerous health issues. For example, multiple studies have linked consuming added sugar to a higher risk of obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

The Dietary Guidelines for Americans advise that all Americans limit refined sugars in their daily diet to less than 10% of total calories. The American Heart Association is more specific and suggests that men consume no more than 150 calories (about the amount found in 9 teaspoons of table sugar) from refined sugar per day.

Unfortunately, the average daily intake of refined sugar is the equivalent of about 17 teaspoons, providing 270 calories.

To avoid overdoing added sugar, be savvier about reading food labels by checking products for refined sugar and amounts per serving. Also, keep tabs on the sugar you add to foods or beverages.

© 2024 Harvard University. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Healthy and affordable lunch foods to try

By Sarah Anzlovar

While lunch is often an afterthought when it comes to meal planning, what you eat midday can make a big difference in how you feel all afternoon.

Trade up your deli sandwich with a bag of chips for some of these foods to get more from your lunch without spending too much time in the kitchen.

1. Canned tuna: “Seafood is packed with protein, helping you feel full and satisfied. It’s also a good source of omega-3 fatty

BEACON BITS

Ongoing

acids, known for their role in heart and cognitive health,” said Chrissy Carroll, MPH, RD at Snacking in Sneakers. Canned tuna (and other fish) can be used in sandwiches, salads, casseroles, pasta and so much more.

2. Farro: If you’re tired of quinoa (or don’t love it), make farro the base of your next grain bowl. With 6 grams of protein and 5 grams of fiber per ½ cup cooked, it’s guaranteed to help keep you full all afternoon. That’s because the protein and fiber found in farro take longer to digest, slow-

HANDCRAFTERS’ MEETUP

Whether you’re interested in sharing ideas with other handcrafters in the area or want to learn a new craft, check out this group that meets at the Chevy Chase Library each Thursday from 10:30 a.m. to noon. The free gathering takes place in the meeting room on the lower level of the library, 8005 Connecticut Ave., Chevy Chase, MD. Registration not required. For more information, call (240) 773-9590.

Montgomery Countyʼs leading organization of senior service professionals dedicated to improving senior living through networking, education, advocacy and public awareness. For information and resources, visit

www.growsmc.org

ing the rate at which sugar gets released into our bloodstream.

3. Veggie burgers: Veggie burgers are a great way to add more plant-based meals to your week. “They are convenient, filling, and can be a good source of fiber and protein,” said Allison Knott, M.S., RDN, CSSD, an endurance sports dietitian.

Make your own and freeze for easy lunches, or grab a box from the freezer aisle. While frozen options are very convenient, “sodium can add up quickly,” Knott noted. Aim for less than 400 mg of sodium per burger.

4. Black beans: Black beans (along with other beans) are an under-appreciated superfood. Packed with fiber, protein and important vitamins and minerals like iron, magnesium and folate, they offer a lot of bang for your buck, being one of the least expensive protein options available. The simplest way to use beans is to add them to any salad or grain bowl.

5. Avocado: This fiber- and healthy-fatfilled fruit brings a ton of vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients to your lunch. Eating avocado is linked to better cholesterol, blood sugar control and even improved attention. Add it to sandwiches, salads, tacos, grain bowls, wraps or on top of your black bean soup or chili. And yes, it’s still healthy if you make it into guacamole.

LAKE FRANK WALK

6. Hummus: Made from chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, herbs and spices, hummus is packed with good-for-you ingredients linked to many health benefits. Upgrade your wrap or sandwich by using hummus instead of mayonnaise or other condiments. It’s also perfect for a “snack lunch,” which Carroll likes to make with tuna salad, whole grain crackers, nuts and fruit.

7. Apples : Eating apples has been linked to numerous health benefits, including reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease, as well as better gut health, thanks to all the phytonutrients, vitamins and prebiotic fiber they contain. Plus, they are portable and require no packaging, making apples a perfect complement to almost any lunch.

8. Whole-grain bread: One of the best upgrades you can make to a lunch sandwich is to trade in white bread for whole grain. Whole-grain bread contains more fiber and protein than white bread, which is key to avoiding that mid-afternoon crash. Look for “whole wheat” or “whole grain” listed first on the ingredient list.

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

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

Walk the Lake Frank and Meadowside Nature Center trails with the Seneca Valley Sugarloafers Volksmarch Club. Choose between a 5- or 10-kilometer trail. The walk takes place on Sat., April 13 starting between 9 and 11:30 a.m. from the patio next to Norby’s Coffee, Rock Creek Village Shopping Center, 5566 Norbeck Rd. (Rte. 28 and Bauer Dr.), Rockville, MD. Participation fee is $4. For more information, visit sugarloafers.org or call Maribeth Evans at (301) 787-5410.

Five potential uses for medical cannabis

Cannabis is an herb often referred to as marijuana. Most people think of it for recreational use, but it has medical benefits just like other herbs.

In 1839, Irish physician Dr. William O’Shaughnessy introduced cannabis to Western medicine. After that, it was used as one of our primary goto medicines for more than 200 years.

Its use has been controversial for decades. Unlike the freedom enjoyed by ginseng, ginkgo, echinacea and St. John’s wort, cannabis has been controlled because it causes psychoactive effects.

When used medicinally, cannabis can be a treatment option for a wide range of conditions and symptoms. Its use continues to be illegal in the United States under federal law, but lately, more state and local jurisdictions are decriminalizing or legalizing it for medicinal and even recreational use (as is the case in Maryland, Virginia and Washington, D.C.).

Here are five potential medical uses for cannabis:

1. Pain relief: Cannabis has long been used as a pain reliever, and some evidence suggests that it may be effective for reducing chronic pain. A 2018 review of studies

published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) found that cannabis use was associated with statistically significant reductions in chronic pain. However, there are also risks associated with cannabis use, including the potential for addiction, impaired driving and other negative health effects. If you have chronic pain, you should speak with your doctor before considering cannabis as a treatment option.

2. Anxiety and depression relief: Cannabis may hold potential as a treatment for anxiety and depression. A 2019 study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry found that cannabis use was associated with significant reduction in symptoms of anxiety and depression.

However, cannabis may have negative effects on your mental health, including increased anxiety and paranoia, and may not be suitable for everyone. It’s a very individual thing.

3. Nausea and vomiting relief: Medical cannabis has been shown to be effective in reducing nausea and vomiting in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, at least according to a 2018 review of data published in the Cochrane Database

of Systematic Reviews.

4. Neurological disorder relief: Medical cannabis has also been investigated for its potential benefits for neurological disorders such as epilepsy and multiple sclerosis. Seizure control is one critical area of research that focuses on cannabis benefits.

5. Sleep aid: Cannabis may also have potential as a sleep aid for people with insomnia. The downside of that is that, for some, daytime sleepiness and impaired driving are associated with nighttime use. Again, the individual response comes into play. Some people process cannabis very slowly.

If you’re considering medical cannabis, you should speak with a doctor registered with your state to prescribe it. I do not rec-

ommend street dealers! While rare, contamination is possible.

I want to caution you that there are possible adverse effects if you use too much cannabis, misuse it or are allergic to it.

Once prescribed, you should always follow recommended dosing guidelines and regulations.

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

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

Suzy Cohen is a registered pharmacist and author of

Solutions from Head to Toe

Dear Seniors,

DIRECTORS MESSAGE

By Charon P.W. Hines

Last month marked an entire year since I’ve had the privilege of serving as your Director of the Department of Aging and Community Living (DACL). Working alongside our dedicated team to serve our nearly 120,000 seniors in the District of Columbia has been an incredible journey. Your support and engagement have truly been the driving force behind our efforts.

Leading up to my one-year anniversary, I had the opportunity to testify at the Fiscal Year 2023-2024 Performance Oversight Hearing before DC Council’s Committee on Executive Administration and Labor. It was important for us to showcase our significant progress over the past year and outline our vision for the future. Under the leadership of Mayor Muriel Bowser, DACL remains committed to five core areas essential for supporting older residents like you – socialization, transportation, nutrition, aging in place, and providing high-quality services.

I often remind my team of this quote I live by at DACL: “For without the seniors, there is no us.” I say this as much as I can because it is so true about the work that DACL does from day to day. We could not do the work we do without you. Your feedback, accountability, and encouragement continually inspire us to strive for excellence, and we want you to continue to share your voice with us. So, if you have any questions or need assistance, please reach out to us at 202-724-5626.

As a third-generation Washingtonian, I am deeply honored to make a difference in the very city that raised me. This month, as we commemorate International Women’s History Month, I am reminded of the extraordinary women who have left an indelible mark on our vibrant community. From Sharon Pratt, the first female Mayor of DC, to Virginia Ali, the visionary behind Ben’s Chili Bowl, Mary McLeod Bethune, a trailblazer in civil rights and education, and of course, our three-time mayor Muriel Bowser, who is also the first African American woman in the U.S. to be elected to three, four-year terms as Mayor of any American city; their profound contributions resonate throughout the fabric of our city.

Additionally, I am inspired by the countless DC older adults like yourselves who, through your ongoing efforts, continue to effect positive change. Your legacies serve as beacons, motivating us to lead and strive for meaningful progress.

Live Boldly is not just a motto but a call to action. I know that our seniors embody this spirit daily and have countless stories to share. If you’re interested in sharing your experiences and wisdom, please email us at dacl.communications@dc.gov. We look forward to hearing from you and amplifying your voices.

Thank you for your ongoing support, and here’s to another year of serving and celebrating our vibrant aging community.

In Service, Charon P.W. Hines

DACL Celebrates DC Seniors For Valentine’s Day at the Inaugural Red, White, And You Event

Over 600 District seniors gathered at the Deanwood and Edgewood Recreational Centers to celebrate love and combat social isolation in the District.

Eighth Annual Cupid’s Kids

Seniors receiving home-delivered meals in the District were given something extra the week of Valentine’s Day. Over 10 DC Public Schools participated in making nearly 3,500 cards for seniors to express love and gratitude for the week of love.

Ms. Senior DC Walks in Fashion Week

Ms. Senior DC, Queen Cerise Turner, takes on New York Fashion Week! Queen Cerise graced the runway as a model with Crown Magazine alongside other pageant queens from all over the United States. Congratulations, Queen Cerise!

Director Hines testified in front of the DC Council for the annual performance oversight hearing in February, speaking about core areas that directly impact DC seniors and how DACL supports them.

Money Law &

More than half of people over 65 are in debt to some degree. Learn what they can do about it on p. 22.

What do you think of Medicare Advantage?

By Kiplinger Consumer News Service

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is asking for your help as it seeks to increase the transparency of the privately managed Medicare Advantage (MA) plans and to strengthen the program’s data capabilities.

While traditional Medicare — Parts A and B — covers a large portion of medical expenses after you turn 65, there are things Medicare doesn’t cover [Ed. note: such as vision, hearing and dental expenses]. This is where Medicare Advantage, a supplemental plan, can help.

But consumers do not always have access to all the information they might need before they make a choice among MA plans.

“Americans with Medicare who have managed care plans called Medicare Advantage should not feel like their healthcare is a black box,” Xavier Becerra, secre-

tary of the Department of Health and Human Services, said in a statement.

“The lack of transparency in Medicare Advantage managed care plans deprives patients of important information that helps them make informed decisions. It deprives researchers and doctors of critical data to evaluate problems and trends in patient care.”

To that end, the CMS has issued a request for information (RFI) for the public at large to give data-related input on all aspects of the Medicare Advantage program.

The CMS said the information it gathers from the RFI will help it measure what is and is not working and be used to guide policymaking.

Comments are due by May 29.

Need for data is paramount

“In healthcare, you can’t improve what

you don’t know, and the way to know is with data,” said Dr. Meena Seshamani, CMS deputy administrator and director of the Center for Medicare.

The types of information requested includes data on access to care, prior authorization, provider directories and networks; supplemental benefits; marketing; care quality and outcomes; value-based care arrangements and equity; and healthy competition in the market, including the effects of vertical integration and how that affects payment.

Transparency is especially important, the CMS said, because Medicare Advantage enrollment has grown to more than 50% of Medicare enrollment. This puts the government on the hook for about $7 trillion in payments to Medicare Advantage health insurance companies during the next decade, it said.

The CMS said that the information so-

licited by the RFI will support its efforts to:

• Ensure MA plans best meet the needs of people with Medicare.

• Ensure that people with Medicare have timely access to care.

• Ensure that MA plans appropriately use taxpayer funding.

• Ensure that the MA market has healthy competition.

To access the RFI, visit the Federal Register’s webpage at bit.ly/MAcomments and click on “Submit a formal comment.” You may submit comments via the website, or mail them to: Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, Department of Health and Human Services, Attention: CMS-4207-NC, P.O. Box 8013, Baltimore, MD 21244-8013.

© 2024 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Retiring isn’t easy — even for specialists

By Liz Weston

A couple of years ago, I wrote a column about how to have a retirement worth saving for. It ended with a quote from personal finance educator Barbara O’Neill, who reflected on how the pandemic disrupted many retirees’ plans.

“It wasn’t just two years lost; it was two good years,” O’Neill said then. “You don’t know how many of those you have left.”

One of my younger colleagues objected to that sentiment, saying it was a jarring ending to an otherwise upbeat column. But my older co-workers got it.

Those of us who currently have good health and energy don’t know how long those blessings will last. There’s no guarantee we’ll get to enjoy the retirements we have planned.

That lesson was driven home in July 2023, when a longtime colleague died at age 61. We’d had many talks over the years about the retirement he had envisioned. It’s heartbreaking that his dreams will never happen.

But his death was the push I needed to make my own decision. By the time you read this, I will have retired from my job at personal finance site NerdWallet.

A surprisingly hard decision

When our financial planner told us we

could afford to retire, my initial reaction wasn’t joy but bemusement.

I’ve been writing about retirement planning for three decades and saving for even longer, but it was always a goal in the distant, misty future. Making the decision felt like jumping off a cliff.

Would I be OK without the intellectual challenges, social interactions and sense of satisfaction I get from my job? Had I accomplished everything I wanted to in my career?

And just how much would I miss that nice, steady paycheck and all the wonderful benefits NerdWallet provides, including massively subsidized healthcare?

At this point, I have to acknowledge the huge privilege of even having a choice about when to retire. Almost half of retirees leave the workforce earlier than they planned, according to the Employee Benefit Research Institute.

Some are laid off or forced out. Others have health issues or must care for loved ones who are sick or disabled.

Many people keep working out of necessity: They have bills to pay and too little savings.

Do the research

Knowing all that didn’t make the choice easy, however. So, I did what I do best: co-

pious research.

I found it hugely helpful to read O’Neill’s book, Flipping a Switch: Your Guide to Happiness and Financial Security in Later Life

Another good read is Independence Day: What I Learned About Retirement from Some Who’ve Done It and Some Who Never Will, by Steve Lopez, my former Los Angeles Times colleague.

My husband and I had many, many discussions with our financial planner. We asked her to rerun our plan with different assumptions about what we’d spend, how we’d tap our funds, what the markets might do and what we’d earn with part-time work. This stress testing gave us confidence in our plan.

Our planner also connected us with an insurance agent who helped us figure out health coverage. My husband is old enough for Medicare, but I’m a few years shy of 65, and we have a daughter going to college in another state.

I’m glad we have the option to buy health insurance through the Affordable Care Act exchanges. But continuing my employer’s group coverage for my daughter and myself through the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA) turned out to be the most costeffective option for now.

Our financial plan worked, and healthcare was solved, but emotionally, I was still resisting. Ultimately, I realized why. I was looking at retirement solely as an ending.

Look ahead, rather than back

With previous big life changes — buying a home, getting married, having a child, starting new jobs — excitement about the adventure to come quickly overcame concerns about what I was giving up.

I needed to stop focusing on what I was retiring from and start contemplating what I was retiring to.

Today, I’m seeing retirement for what it is: the beginning of an interesting new chapter in our lives. The time I once spent building a career will be invested in travel, volunteering and deepening relationships with friends and family.

I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished. I’ve won awards, written five books, contributed to the growth of a company (NerdWallet) and its award-winning podcast (“Smart Money”).

Most importantly, I’ve helped people solve their money problems. I’ll continue with that last part, but I’m also looking forward to the rest of what comes next.

AP/NerdWallet. This column was provided to The Associated Press by the personal finance website NerdWallet.

Estate and inheritance taxes vary by state

Federal estate taxes apply equally to all, no matter where in the United States they live. But state estate taxes and inheritance taxes vary significantly among states.

Estate taxes are paid by the estate based on its size at the time of the estate owner’s death. Both federal and state estate taxes have exemptions. Taxes, if any, are based on the size of the estate above the exemption amounts. There is no state estate tax or inheritance tax if assets are inherited by a surviving spouse who is a U.S. citizen.

and the individual who inherited funds. Each state establishes its own regulations in this regard. Unmarried parties generally pay the highest inheritance taxes.

Federal estate taxes range from 18% to 40% for estates above $12.92 million. Seventeen states and the District of Columbia have either estate or inheritance taxes. Maryland is the only state that has both estate and inheritance taxes.

By Elliot Raphaelson

Inheritance taxes are paid by individuals rather than the estate. Inheritance taxes, too, have exemptions, and taxes are owed only on amounts that exceed the exemption.

Inheritance taxes are based on the relationship between the deceased individual

BEACON BITS

Ongoing

Eleven states have only state estate taxes. These are: Connecticut, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont and Washington.

State estate taxes can be as high as 20% when the size of the estate exceeds the exemption amount. The exemption amount ranges from $1 million up to almost $13

FREE TAX PREPARATION HELP

If you need to file a tax return this year, you can file for free through the IRS at IRS.gov/FreeFile if your 2023 adjusted gross

was below $79,000. Or, if you need some help, contact the Tax Counseling for the Elderly (or TCE) program. Sponsored by the IRS, TCE provides free tax preparation and counseling to middle and low-income taxpayers, age 60 and older. Call 1-800-906-9887 or visit IRS.treasury.gov/freetaxprep to locate services near you. You can also get tax preparation assistance through the AARP Foundation’s Tax-Aide service. Call 1-888-227-7669 or visit AARP.org/findtaxhelp for more information. You don’t have to be an AARP member to use this service.

FREE TECH HOTLINE FROM AARP

Ongoing

Do you have questions or need assistance with Zoom, setting up an email or knowing what to look for when buying a new computer? Senior Planet from AARP’s free hotline, open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., can answer most of your tech questions. To speak with a technology trainer, call 1-888-713-3495.

million. As an example, in Maine, there would be no taxes on the first $6.41 million; the estate tax would be between 8% and 12% for amounts above that.

The following states have only inheritance taxes: Iowa, Kentucky, Nebraska, New Jersey and Pennsylvania. As an example, in Kentucky the tax is up to 16%. The exemption amounts for inheritance are much lower than the exemptions for state estate taxes. States with high inheritance taxes are Kentucky, Pennsylvania, Nebraska, Maryland and Iowa.

If your state is not included in the preceding lists, then you would not incur state estate or inheritance taxes. However, if you own property in a state that assesses state estate taxes, then it is likely you would

incur income taxes in that state.

If you live in a state that assesses state estate taxes, or you expect an inheritance in a state that assesses inheritance taxes, you should go to the state’s website for the Department of Revenue for this information.

Another good source is the following article from July 2023: fool.com/research/ estate-inheritance-taxes. (Beware that states may have made changes for 2024, and you should depend on your state’s website for updated information.)

Things to look out for

Here are some recommendations made by estate attorneys regarding planning for

What to do if you have debt in retirement

By Kate Ashford

A growing number of older adults are in debt in retirement, according to the 2022 Survey of Consumer Finances from the Federal Reserve.

Among people ages 65 to 74, the share with debt rose to 65% in 2022, up from 50% in 1989 (the first time this question was asked). For people 75 and over, 53% report holding debt in 2022 versus 21% in 1989.

This is a big challenge, since people’s income in retirement is traditionally limited. But there are strategies for tackling your balance sheet later in life.

For 19 years, I’ve hosted the weekly radio show “Getting Older with Eric Stewart”. Tune in every Sunday from 10 – 10:30 a.m. on WMAL 105.9 FM for insights into living well while getting older, whether you want to remain in your home, or move to a retirement community.

Eric Stewart

Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc. Seniors Real Estate Specialist

Eric@EricStewartGroup.com EricstewartGroup.com 301.252.1697

For your free copy of my “Rightsizing Guide”, download it from the “Resources” section of EricStewartGroup.com or call 1-866-AGING WELL for a printed copy by mail (also free).

Call me directly at (301) 252-1697 for your personal consultation on real estate matters.

Take note: Not all debt is bad debt. “It’s not necessarily the worst thing to have,” said Jack Heintzelman, a certified financial planner in Boston. If it’s debt that earns you a tax deduction, he said, like a mortgage, it may be fine to hang onto it while you give your money elsewhere a chance to grow.

But if the debt is straining your retirement budget or you’re paying a high interest rate, a pay-it-off plan is key. Here are some methods that can help.

Pick up side work

The traditional retirement model — work for 40 years and then quit forever — may not be the most appropriate approach anymore.

Supplementing retirement savings and Social Security benefits with part-time earnings can make your money go further and help you pay off the remaining debt.

For some people, consulting in their field is a natural step between full-time work and full-time play. Other people can monetize an interest, or pick up hourly work a few days a week.

“We have a client who works in a music repair shop for part-time income,” said Colin Day, a CFP in St. Louis. “They get to explore their hobby while also getting some level of income.”

Consider moving or downsizing

Your home is usually one of your biggest expenses, and if you live in a highcost area, you might be paying high property taxes and maintenance costs, which eat into your ability to pay for other things.

Moving to a smaller home or to an area with a lower cost of living can free up room in your budget. You might also get better weather to boot.

“We have a fair amount of clients who are moving from states with a higher income tax and colder weather down to places like Florida,” said Crystal McKeon, a CFP in Houston, who notes that Florida has no state income tax.

Andrew Herzog, a CFP in Plano, Texas, recalls a client considering moving to a smaller home closer to his daughter, easier to maintain and potentially mortgagefree, if he can sell his current house for a high enough price.

“Downsizing can absolutely work,” Herzog said. “It’s best when you do it for multiple reasons.”

Time your Social Security

The Social Security equation — when to claim, when to wait — depends on your health, your marital status and your savings. But debt can also affect your plans.

Taking Social Security early might give you the income you need to get rid of your balances. “As long as I’m not blowing up my plan by drawing Social Security early, it could help sustain me by not having to draw down my investment assets,” Day said.

On the other hand, waiting to claim means you’ll have a higher Social Security check later — benefits increase by 8% per year after full retirement age until age 70.

Depending on the type of debt, it may be better to wait until you can throw more money at it. Talk to a financial professional about the best option for you.

“I would do the calculations,” Herzog said. “That’s a pretty big asset for people when you’re older.”

Tap home equity — cautiously

If you have equity in your home, you might be able to get a home equity loan or line of credit to help you consolidate or pay down higher-interest debt.

Take your time considering this, however, since an inability to keep up with these payments puts your home at risk of foreclosure. “You have much more to lose if you mess that up,” Herzog said

Keep in mind, too, that the interest on a home equity line of credit is only deductible if you use it for home improvement-related expenses. And this is a better option for a one-time debt, not ongoing expenses.

“Those living expenses are just going to continue,” McKeon said. “Home equity loans should not be a first priority.”

[Ed. note: Reverse mortgages, which let homeowners 62 and up borrow against their home equity, can also end in foreclosure in limited circumstances, such as if you fail to pay property taxes and homeowners’ insurance. For more on using reverse mortgages for funds, see “A reverse mortgage can help pay for care,” July 2023 Beacon.]

AP/NerdWallet. This article was provided to The Associated Press by the personal finance website NerdWallet.

State taxes

From page 21

state estate and inheritance taxes.

— Examine the “estate tax cliff.”

The cliff refers to the marginal tax rate after the threshold is reached.

For example, in New York, the threshold amount was $6.58 million in 2023. However, as the financial services firm J.P. Morgan explains on its website, “the exemption begins to phase out at values over the threshold, and if an estate is more than 5% over the threshold (which comes to $6,909,000 in 2023), the estate completely loses the exemption and the full value of the estate’s assets will be subject to New York estate tax.” If the estate exceeds $6.94 million, the marginal tax rate on the amount above the threshold is 190%!

In order to avoid the high marginal tax rate, an individual may wish to consider giving away assets above the threshold, or including a provision in the will that directs any amount above the threshold be given to charity. This recommendation

BEACON BITS

Ongoing

was made by Toni Ann Kruse, a privateclient attorney with McDermott Will and Emery in New York City.

— Check for inflation adjustments: Some states have inflation adjustments to their threshold, while others do not. For example, in Illinois, the $4 million threshold is not adjusted for inflation.

— Nonresidents who own property in another state: If you own property in another state, your estate could be subject to state estate taxes. Depending on state law, you may avoid these taxes if you hold the assets in a limited liability company. Discuss this with your attorney.

— Revisit your estate plan: If you are not familiar with the regulations regarding state estate taxes, you should discuss this issue with your attorney. To maximize the exemption for both spouses, consider the possible advantage of credit shelter trusts with your attorney.

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

© 2024 Elliot Raphaelson. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

FREE TREES FOR PEPCO CUSTOMERS

If you are a residential Pepco customer in Maryland or the District of Columbia, you can request a complimentary tree from the company. Choose from among several species native to the northeast region and enjoy the energy savings that the trees will provide. Visit arborday.org/Pepco to reserve a tree, and remember to call 811 to have utility underground lines marked before you begin planting. First come, first served. Trees will be delivered by mail by the end of May.

FREE ZOOM ON GLACIER STUDIES

Mar. 19

Smithsonian Environmental Research Center presents an educational webinar about the hidden worlds within ice sheets and glaciers. Join geophysicist Dustin Schroeder to learn about ice-penetrating radar, a powerful technique for studying ice sheets and glaciers on Earth and other planetary bodies. The presentation is free and takes place on Tue., March 19 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. on Zoom. For more information and to register, visit bit.ly/SmithsonianWebinar.

Leisure & Travel Leisure &

Charlottesville’s 19th-century sites to see

By Glenda C. Booth

Thomas Jefferson dreamed of producing great American wine at his Virginia plantation, Monticello, just outside Charlottesville.

He never succeeded. But today, winemaking is flourishing in central Virginia, with many vineyards in the Charlottesville area.

Exploring the area’s wineries is only one of many reasons to plan a visit. You can tour U.S. presidents’ haunts and a Civil War hospital; amble around Mr. Jefferson’s university; or walk through a historic tunnel built by one of Napoleon Bonaparte’s engineers.

Located less than three hours from Washington, D.C., the area was home to three U.S. presidents: Thomas Jefferson, James Madison and James Monroe, plus two famous explorers, Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, who Jefferson commissioned to explore the Louisiana Purchase.

Monticello and Montpelier

Monticello, the neoclassical home Jefferson designed and completed in 1809, sits atop Little Mountain, two miles southeast of Charlottesville.

The only presidential and private home on the UNESCO list, the domed, threefloor complex has 43 rooms, some with skylights and unique ventilation features. Jefferson drew on Renaissance designs, especially Italian architect Andrea Palla-

dio’s principles.

The home’s front hall displays replicas of the items Lewis and Clark shipped to Jefferson during their famous expedition: antlers, rocks and Indian beadwork.

Outside, the gardens — which combine English, French and Italian designs — reflect Jefferson’s interest in horticulture.

The restored Mulberry Row outbuildings include a woodworking shop, nailery, smokehouse and quarters for enslaved people who worked in the home. During Jefferson’s lifetime, more than 400 people were enslaved on his 5,000-acre plantation, including Sally Hemings, the mother of six of his children.

Montpelier, home of fourth U.S. President James Madison and his wife, Dolley, is about eight miles from Charlottesville. A visit there today reveals 19th-century plantation life from both the owners’ and enslaved people’s perspectives.

Highland, near Monticello, is the historic home of U.S. President James Monroe, the nation’s fifth president.

Fast forward to the early 1900s and check out Pine Knot, a modest wooden cottage retreat of Theodore and Edith Roosevelt. The Roosevelts escaped Washington’s hubbub in a rail car attached to the mail train, and then journeyed by carriage or horseback to their hideaway in the Albemarle County woods. Open to visitors by appointment only, it is a plain, peaceful

place to explore and recharge.

The University of Virginia

Jefferson founded the University of Virginia in 1819 and designed what he called the “Academical Village,” also a UNESCO site, as the heart of the university.

On each side of a white-columned, 740-foot green expanse called “The Lawn” are residential and academic buildings, bookended on the north end by the Rotunda, completed in 1895 and inspired by Rome’s Parthenon.

Being selected to live in a 19th-century room with a fireplace today is an honor for UVA undergrads called “lawnies.” Visitors can peek into Edgar Allan Poe’s room, restored to his 1826 student days.

The Memorial to Enslaved Workers, dedicated in 2021, honors those who built and maintained the Academical Village. Names of the 4,000 enslaved people who worked on UVA property are etched in the low granite walls of an incomplete circle, which symbolizes a broken shackle.

Downtown and the Tunnel

Charlottesville’s downtown is a walkable dining, shopping and arts district of more than 120 shops, 30 restaurants and theaters in mostly early 20th-century build-

ings. A free shuttle links downtown to the university, and parking garages are available.

Adventuresome types can discover groundbreaking engineering in the Blue Ridge Tunnel, a 20-minute drive from downtown Charlottesville. An easy hiking trail leads to the restored 4,264-foot, former railroad tunnel, now a pedestrian tunnel through Afton Mountain’s hard greenstone.

“Until you go there, you just don’t get the tunnel,” Paul Wagner, who directed a documentary about it, told me.

As in the well-known adage, a tiny, captivating, white orb of light at the end of the tunnel becomes larger and larger as walkers amble toward it.

The engineering genius was Claudius Crozet, who, in pre-dynamite days between 1849 and 1859, supervised its grueling construction by 800 Irish immigrants and 300 enslaved men.

Civil War-related sites

Virginia was a Civil War battleground, with many sites preserved today.

Lesser known is Gordonsville’s Exchange Hotel, built in 1860 at the intersection of two

At Thomas Jefferson’s grand home, Monticello, visitors can learn about the third president’s inventions and interests. The historic site also celebrates the lives of the enslaved people who worked there.

PHOTO © MARCNORMAN | DREAMSTIME.COM

Vermont’s cozy sugarhouses roll out the red carpet every spring for maple syrup making. See story on p. 26.

Charlottesville’s lively downtown mall has 120 shops and 30 restaurants to choose from. The area is known for its many historic buildings and Civil War sites.

PHOTO © LITTLENY | DREAMSTIME.COM

©CHERNETSKAYA |

Late March may be Vermont’s sweet spot

By Martha Steger

April showers bring May flowers. But in Vermont, winter storms make the sap flow.

Sugaring season — tapping sugar-maple trees’ sap and boiling it down to syrup — swings into full speed in Vermont in late March.

Last year, on a visit to a Vermont sugarhouse, I watched the clouds of steam rise and sniffed the sweet air before swinging open the doors.

Inside, I was engulfed by lines of locals waiting to buy “sugar on snow,” boiled maple syrup served atop snow. I sampled the sour pickles and cider donuts — recommended side dishes — and watched two boys skim foam off the surface of hot sap.

In Brattleboro and St. Albans, two prominent sugaring areas in the state, the season’s snowfalls provide ideal conditions for the sap to flow for sugar makers, who need moisture in the ground and changes in barometric pressure to drive the sap out of the maple trees for making syrup. To make one gallon of syrup requires 10 gallons of sap.

You can drive, ski or walk to the state’s sugarhouses. Skiers and snowshoers can access a few via trails, such as the von Trapp Family Lodge in Stowe.

Tour of sugarhouses

If you drive, a perfect first stop is Brattle-

boro, in southern Vermont. Snuggle down for a sugar-season escape at Greater Brattleboro’s former sugarhouse, now part of Landmark Trust USA’s collection of overnight rental properties. Aptly called The Sugarhouse, the 1915 building sits on a farm next to an active, independently owned sugarhouse (landmarktrustusa.org/sugarhouse).

Brattleboro’s delightful Main Street stores sell hyper-local products, but visiting family-owned farms that make the products is a special treat.

One, Brattleboro’s Robb Family Farm Sugar House, is a sixth-generation farm. The Robbs converted part of their old milking room into a kitchen where they make their popular maple candy, maple ice cream and maple-coated nuts.

For liquid refreshment, I tasted handcrafted liqueurs at Putney Mountain Winery and Spirits — a ginger liqueur, a “simply chocolate” one, Vermont cassis — and, yes, a “simply maple” liqueur. A small box of five airline-sized liquor bottles makes a nice local libation memento.

Burlington and Manchester

Of course, tourists can find a lot more to celebrate than the state’s liquid gold. From Burlington to Manchester, I sampled other aspects of Vermont’s hospitality.

The Burlington Hilton on Lake Champlain makes a good base for seeing the walkable and shoppable city. If you want to splurge, go for the nearby Essex Resort and Spa (thetavernvt.com) — or at least make reservations for dinner at the chef’s table (my single best meal in the state).

In town, Burlington’s Waterworks (wa-

terworksvt.com) serves a good beef or seafood meal at a more affordable price.

In the quintessential Vermont town of Manchester, I settled into The Equinox Golf Resort & Spa (equinoxresort.com), a resort with excellent service and amenities nestled between the Green and Tacon-

Nebraska Knoll Sugar Farm in Stowe, Vermont, is one of the state’s many sugarhouses, where maple tree sap is cooked down into delectable maple syrup. It takes

gallons of tree sap to

of maple syrup.

Charlottesville

From page 25

rail lines. Trains transported 70,000 wounded Union and Confederate soldiers here when the hotel became the Gordonsville Receiving Hospital.

Today’s visitors can see Civil War medical tools and a war-era blood stain on a table. The Freedman’s Bureau Room honors the “Yankee school marms” who

Vermont

From page 26

ic Mountain ranges.

The Equinox hosts the Land Rover Experience Vermont, an off-road driving lesson on an 80-acre course. I wasn’t in the league of those trying (under expert supervision) to lift the Rover’s opposite side wheels off the road on a dirt road curve, but I did learn tips for conditions in regular driving.

Marble sidewalks? Yes, Manchester Village has them, thanks to a nearby quarry. With such natural elegance, it was no surprise the area had been a summer resort for the Gilded Age society set.

Lots to shop

I strolled down Manchester’s Main Street to browse designer outlets and artisan galleries (check out Epoch for paintings, jewelry and much more).

taught at least 250 emancipated people to read and write here post-war.

Wineries and cideries

Although Jefferson never quite mastered winemaking, today 40 wineries abound within 25 miles of the region’s bucolic countryside.

One is the Trump Winery which, with its 45-room Georgian-style luxury hotel, claims to be the largest on the East Coast.

Aside from shopping at The Vermont Flannel Company (vermontflannel.com), I spent the most time at the 10,000-square-foot, family-owned, former stagecoach inn, the Northshire Bookstore (northshire.com).

For an evening meal, The Wilburton Inn (wilburtoninn.com) hosts dinner theater and other packages at the historical property specializing in family reunions, yoga retreats and DIY weddings.

Home to the Museum of the Creative Process, the inn also offers power-management and conflict-resolution workshops, which owner Dr. Albert Levis described as “a concise program of emotional education.”

I couldn’t overlook the other treasures in Manchester’s countryside. On Route 7A you can explore the 412-acre working farm, Hildene (hildene.org), formerly the 1905 Georgian Revival summer home of President and Mrs. Lincoln’s son, Robert Todd Lincoln, and his wife, Mary — along with a

Visitors can spend a few hours indoors or outdoors, enjoying the wine, food and scenery.

Cideries thrive, too, such as the Castle Hill Cidery, whose owners brag that their cider saved Jefferson’s life and “won the Revolutionary War.”

In 1781, as British Gen. Banastre Tarleton marched to Monticello to capture then-Governor Jefferson, the farm’s Walker family plied Tarleton with hard cider.

restored 1903 Pullman Palace railcar.

If you’re feeling heavy on history, return to Pastime Pinball, a family-friendly playable pinball museum in the heart of Manchester.

The Southern Vermont Arts Center, sit-

As a soused Tarleton dallied, the Walkers sent a messenger to warn Jefferson that British troops were headed his way. Thanks to their quick thinking and generous service, Jefferson escaped.

For more information, drop by the visitors’ center at 601 East Main St., Charlottesville, or see visitcharlottesville.org, monticellowinetrail.com or virginiacider.org/explore-cideries. Be sure to avoid UVA graduation weekend, May 18 and 19, 2024.

uated on 100-plus acres, was the perfect place to end my Manchester visit, with exhibitions by local, national and international artists on relevant, timely subjects.

For more information, visit vermontmaple.org/events.

All-inclusive vacations with a difference

By Sally French

All-inclusive vacations can conjure images of food under heat lamps, too many poolside piña coladas, and being trapped on resort grounds. But sun-soaked packages are not the only type of all-inclusives.

Sure, sprawling mega-resorts exist — and their numbers are growing. All-Inclusive by Marriott Bonvoy has spent the last couple of years building a portfolio of nearly three dozen all-inclusive hotels worldwide, mostly in Mexico and the Caribbean.

But guests looking for a more localized and unique experience can still find that type of vacation, where the price of food

and activities is included, freeing you up to partake without calculating cost.

A different breed of inclusives

Some all-inclusives are entirely antithetical to stereotypical resort experiences. Wellness and activity take precedence over all-you-can-eat meals. They aren’t necessarily in sunny locales. Guest counts are often limited, with just a handful of beds.

Vista Verde Guest Ranch in Clark, Colorado, is among the properties that check all those boxes. At the all-inclusive dude ranch, summer outdoor activities include fly fishing and paddle boarding. Winter op-

tions include snowshoeing, ice fishing, skiing and sleigh rides. There are only 12 cabins and three lodge rooms.

Many all-inclusives in this genre, such as the Arctic Watch Wilderness Lodge, may hardly be considered relaxing at all. With 16 cabins located just under 500 miles north of the Arctic Circle, where it’s daytime 24/7, vacationers are encouraged to partake in activities like riding fat tire bikes over the ice.

If the ice has already melted, you can sea kayak instead. With no electricity at night and no in-cabin showers (they’re only in the main complex), it’s not glamorous.

than the hundreds of other vacationers.

— Consider more than just beach locales: Whether it’s the Arctic tundra, a Minnesota summer camp or Colorado dude ranch, some of the most authentic experiences occur at all-inclusives that are far from the beach.

“We are stewards of the western ranch lifestyle, and we enjoy bringing folks into our world,” said Ben Martin, general manager of Colorado’s Vista Verde Guest Ranch.

But it’s still expensive. The cheapest Arctic Watch offering costs about $13,000 for nine nights, amounting to about $1,400 per night (not including the cost of getting there).

At Vista Verde Guest Ranch, three-night stays start at $2,695 during the off-season or about $900 per night (though per-night costs decrease the longer you stay).

You might even consider a trip that doesn’t stay in one place. Companies like SpiceRoads Cycling and Backroads offer all-inclusive, multiday cycling tours where you get a guide and bike support on top of meals and nightly lodging.

— Prioritize points: If you do opt for an all-inclusive stay at one of the major hotel chains, take advantage of the opportunity to book properties on points, which can often be earned through credit card spending.

But not every all-inclusive worth visiting is for travelers with big budgets. At Minnesota’s family-oriented Fair Hills Resort, cabins are modest and the food resembles what you ate at summer camp.

Meals and activities — such as golf lessons, pickleball and s’mores — are included in most packages. Rates can run just over $200 per adult, per night, and $121 per kid, per night, depending on your stay length.

Things to consider

According to a survey published in April 2022 that was commissioned by Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, which has a robust portfolio of all-inclusives, 77% of travelers believe that an all-inclusive vacation is the least stressful way to travel.

— Embrace shoulder season: Shoulder season, which is the time between tourist season and the off-season, can provide a healthy mix of lower rates and fewer crowds, yet decreased risk of bad weather or businesses that have closed for the off-season.

— Understand what’s truly included: You might never touch your wallet at some all-inclusives. Others charge for addons such as snorkel gear or alcohol. A few even tack on resort fees.

Why all-inclusives make sense

Vista Verde’s Martin said his all-inclusive model avoids making vacationers feel nickel and dimed throughout the stay.

“If a guest is frequently reaching for their wallet, they are constantly being reminded that their stay is transactional,” he said. “It changes the dynamic of our relationship with them.”

If you’re considering an all-inclusive for your next vacation, here are some tips to consider:

— Think boutique, not blockbuster: Skipping the sprawling resorts in favor of intimate properties can bring more personalized service. It might also better connect you with the destination and its people rather

BEACON BITS

Ongoing

And if you can score a deal — such as a stay booked on points or during shoulder season — an all-inclusive can leave a far bigger mark in your memory than your bank account.

AP/NerdWallet

BE A SCIENCE MENTOR (VIRTUAL)

Volunteer to be matched virtually with a sixth- through eighthgrade student for the CricketTogether eMentoring program. Read science and STEM articles and then exchange letters asynchronously with your student mentee, corresponding about topics like protecting wildlife, slime, energy from the sun, robotics, sustainability and more. The time commitment is only one hour per month. For more information and to apply, visit bit.ly/ScienceMentor.

SOLAR ECLIPSE FESTIVAL ON THE MALL

Apr. 8

Visit the National Mall between 4th and 12th Streets on Mon., April 8 from noon to 4 p.m. to celebrate and observe the solar eclipse visible across North America. Participate in free activities for all ages, including stations to view the Sun from a variety of safe telescopes. The eclipse will be visible in the D.C. area between 2:04 and 4:32 p.m. Maximum eclipse will be at 3:20 pm, with the Sun 89% covered by the Moon. You should bring your own eclipse glasses to the event.

A glittery, gritty Chorus Line at Toby’s

By Mark Dreisonstok

A Chorus Line, one of the longest-running Broadway shows of all time, highlights both the romance and the struggle of performing in a Broadway musical.

Behind the glory of being part of a show in America’s theater capital are hard work, constant auditions, likelihood of rejection, and — at least for the characters in the show — the need to overcome the harsh experiences of the past.

A year after the show opened in 1975, the musical was nominated for 12 Tony Awards and won nine, including one for Marvin Hamlisch and Edward Kleban, who wrote the music and the lyrics. The show and its authors also won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama.

A Chorus Line is now playing at Toby’s Dinner Theatre through March 10.

The show revolves around a director and choreographer, Zach, portrayed wonderfully by Toby’s regular Jeffrey Shankle. Zach must choose eight out of more than 20 talented dancers for a show-stopping number in an unnamed Broadway musical.

How can Zach choose the best ones, especially given their varied backgrounds and idiosyncratic personalities? Adding

further complication is the presence of a former lover of his in the ranks.

A show composed of vignettes

While the show has a clear plot, it is not so much a unified play as a series of compelling vignettes and backstage stories about people auditioning.

The Toby’s cast, under the splendid direction of Mark Minnick and the superb choreography of Vincent Musgrave, presents these stories in compelling fashion.

Especially memorable moments in the production include: a frantically funny monologue of Bobby (David Singleton) about his “strange” family and himself; Val (Alexis Krey-Bedore) wonderfully performing the bawdy retro-jazz number “Dance: Ten; Looks: Three,” and Lydia Gifford’s wondrous dancing skills and vocal power as Zach’s former flame Cassie in “The Music and the Mirror.”

Several of the women dancers relate that their childhoods were depressing, but they found that “everything was beautiful at the ballet,” leading to their dance careers. Another favorite moment was an energetic Nicky Kaider as Mike in the Dix-

PHOTO BY JERI TIDWELL

Show stoppers

The show builds up beautifully to the show-stopping number “One.” This is first

ieland-flavored “I Can Do That,” accompanied well by Toby’s eight-piece orchestra.

performed in a highly stylized version of a rehearsal, with Zach and Cassie revisiting old conflicts in dialogue in the center of the dancers in a series of Brechtian moments.

PHOTOGRAPHY

The cast of A Chorus Line at Toby's Dinner Theatre in Columbia performs powerfully in both group and individual numbers. Catch the musical there through March 10.

Joan Vassos and Golden Bachelor Gerry Turner on a date. Our cover story continues on page 34.

Dreaming of GPS voices from yesteryear

After years of struggle, I’ve made some tentative peace with newfangled gimmickry.

I can deal with e-mail, voice mail, texting and Google. But there’s one 21st century presence that leaves me pining for days of yore: That woman who gives me directions via GPS.

You know her. If you tee up an address on your smartphone, she’s right there, snippy and snappy, ordering you to turn right at the next corner.

It’s enough to make me hunt up paper maps (even if I could never re-fold them correctly).

If you don’t? There’s a hint of menace in her tone. She is about as warm as my third-grade teacher was when she ordered us to line up for lunch.

By Bob Levey

The GPS lady could act as my partner. But she acts instead as my bad dream.

She gives me directions as if I’ve never driven, or turned right, before. She assumes that I’m a dunce. She overprepares me for what’s obvious. She’s not my friend or my ally.

But she is the source of my latest million-dollar idea…

What if I could strip her voice out of my phone and substitute one that is more fa-

miliar, more agreeable and more in keeping with my generation? A voice from my/our childhood and adolescence?

Of course, no million awaits me for this brainstorm. Someone has already thought of this.

For the right price, you can load up Alicia Keys, Morgan Freeman and (on some phones) Donald Duck. They’ll give you directions with their inimitable cadences and their inimitable diction.

But, with the exception of Donald, none of those voices takes me back to the thrilling days of yesteryear. What if my GPS offered me…

Franklin Delano Roosevelt: “The only thing we have to fee-uh is failing to turn right at the next intersection.”

Tallulah Bankhead: “Dahhhhling! Would you please be an absolute love and turn right at the next corner?” Big smooches.

nental convertible around mah ranch. But ah always turn right at the next corner.”

Winston Churchill: “Never, ever, ever, ever give up preparing to turn right at the veddy next opportunity.”

Ronald Reagan: “Mr. Gorbachev, tear down that wall — and then turn right at the next corner.”

Marilyn Monroe: “Some like it hot, and it’s going to get rea-a-a-a-ly hot for you, babykins, if you don’t turn right at that corner coming up in 200 feet.”

Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.: “I have a dream — and you can have one, too, if you’ll kindly turn right at the next corner.”

John Wayne: “You want to know what true grit truly feels like? Grab that steering wheel. Tap the brakes. Turn right. Easy, mister.”

Edward G. Robinson: “Now listen, punk. You turn right at the next corner if you know what’s good for you, unnerstand?”

Yogi Berra: “When you come to a fork in the road, take it. Next right? That’s as good a fork as any.”

Desi Arnaz: “Lu-u-u-u-cy! I’m almost home! After I take the next right.”

Lyndon B. Johnson: “Mah fellow Americans, I love to drive my Lincoln Conti-

Jerry Lee Lewis: “You’re not planning to turn right at the corner? Goodness, gracious, great balls of fire!”

I know, I know, the million-dollar check is in the mail. I’m prepared to fail. It wouldn’t be the first time.

But I can’t park this brainstorm without making it a little personal.

Bob Levey: “If you don’t turn right at the corner, I’ll write you up in the Beacon!”

Bob Levey is a national award-winning columnist.

find that he cares for the potential cast members more than he can easily admit.

The juxtaposition of their interpersonal relationship with the objective professionalism of a crisp, exacting Broadway number is a highlight of the show.

“One” is later reprised by the entire cast, including director Zach, as the finale. This was my one qualm about the design of the original show: With the cast in full Broadway costume, the audience awaits a seamless and spectacular performance.

A Chorus Line offers the audience an opportunity to encounter both the glitter and the grit of Broadway. Toby’s production makes it easy to understand why this musical, a phenomenon in the 1970s, continues to be popular today.

A Chorus Line runs through March 10. The show has occasional strong language and adult themes, which may make it inappropriate for young children.

Toby’s is located at 5900 Symphony Woods Rd. in Columbia. Advance reservations are required.

Unfortunately, as each cast member comes out (now resplendent in glittery gold costume and top hat), the audience applauds as if a major part of the show is not taking place but instead has ended. To this reviewer, it seemed as if they were “running the end credits” over an important part of the show.

This quibble aside, the show is excellent. We come to understand why these dancers continue to want to dance, despite the indefatigable effort and odds of rejection.

We also come to understand the character of Zach: At the beginning of the show, he seems aloof and indifferent. Later, we

Performances take place Tuesday through Sunday nights, with matinees on Wednesday and Sunday at 12:30 p.m. (buffet brunch for matinees opens at 10:30 a.m.).

Tickets are $74-$79 for adults and $57$60 for children 12 and under. All tickets include an all-you-can-eat buffet (brunch or dinner).

Those 65 and over may attend any Tuesday or Wednesday performance for $62.90. Tickets may be purchased from Ticketmaster or by phone from the box office at (410) 730-8311 or via tobysdinnertheatre.com.

S T N E V L E RI P H & A RC A M

t:ceer Classics in C

onc

Faavvorites Timeless Fa

e a seasoned classical music r you ar Whhethe renewed.” W , but w es sound not just ne avvorit for making old fa knack ost ys it best: “the NSO has a saay t Po Wa The Washington P

March 7 , violin u ing F Y oronduct , c José Luis Gomez out at the symphony! rfect night rs—a pe illiams, and othe aughan W Va Sibelius, V ant Still, illiam Gr rice, W nce P e ossini, Flor uccini, R P rnstein, y Be am of popular classics b ogr in this light pr e, you’ll delight nr o the ge r t wcome aficionado or a ne

–9 | Concert Hall

Sy Symphon

wing! y S ny

NEXT

ts adie conduc d Lab rd Bernar

ozart’s uiem & M qu s R Faauré’ F eq

d Labadie conducts the rnar egation. Be arisian congr P r’s yond the compose nces far be comforting audie epertoire, al r ed chor of the most iconic works of the sacr rpiece is one e é’s mast aur . Gabriel F awwaits paradise that a r vision of ende placed with a t e e gone—r fear of death ar m. Anguish, loss, and equie This is not your typical R y ny y aris” S “P mphon

MONTH aris eat acclaim in P o gr ed t emier Rigel that also pr ozart and y M e, along with symphonies b divine scor

lington e El f Duk g o AnnEveenin

A v

Waashington, e t -studded tribut a soulful, star o the W esents on, the NSO pr e Ellingt uk ation of D long celebr r’s season- nte nnedy Ce e s part of the K e! A uk The D o the timeless jazz brilliance of y t ay Swing and swa

w life eathe ne br Grant Langford , and ortner Sullivan F ,oses Alita M , Aloe Blacc ,Bilal oin us as .-born icon. J D.C

ntimental n a Se ain,” “I r e the A T ak e “T es lik avvorit into fa

ra. n e om jazz’s golde ant music fr e vibr ood,” and mor M

ophone , sax ord ant Langf Gr , piano tner or an F Sulliv ocals , v Alita Moses ocals , v Bilal ocals , v c Aloe Blac oronduct , c tholomew-Poyser Daniel Bar

March 15 & 16 | Concert Hall

CONCERT Y LY F NSO AMIL

toon ll uke E f D of Mu Music o llingt

Daniel Bar rforms this swinging session. a pe rchestr Symphony O ational , the N w-Poyser, aniel Bartholome y D ed b Conduct r r! r and bandleade ved jazz compose o the belo e t tribut ayying e o a special aft ain t -Tr e the A Tak rnoon of music pa

March 17 | Concert Hall

March17|ConcertHall oronduct , c tholomew-Poyser

orect tistic Dir , Ar s oger Eugene R

April 4 & 6 | Concert Hall

Thhing Sttrri ring T

UDIENCES OUNG A Y FOR MUSIC NSO

This daring double act of classical fun is BA

CK for

Heather LeDoux Green violinist and ola aul DeN P a musicians—bassist Orchestr ational Symphony m. N ayyhe more music and ma

ten. r writ ve est music e eat o some of the gr nces t audie oduce young —intr

er amily Theat April 6 & 7 | F

ost enjoyed by ages 3+ M

er Chamber ennedy Cent The K

yers: Spring Concert Plaay

Composed of titled musicians of the N

, violin yna Hepler Da , violin u ing F Y r music. nturies of chambe ee ce om thr classics fr esents mble pr nse a, this acclaimed e rchestr Symphony O ational

on Chorus ashingt he W T ones-barit , bas Michael Sumuel ano , sopr y ve Joélle Har oronduct , c d Labadie Bernar , viola icker uth W R , viola oster Daniel F

Books on how science impacts our lives

These three books provide a unique perspective on the world around us.

Pretty Good House: A Guide to Creating Better Homes, by Michael Maines, Daniel Kolbert, Emily Mottram and Christopher Briley, 252 pages, Taunton Press hardcover, 2022

Whether you’re building your dream house, planning a home renovation, replacing mechanical systems or considering solar panels, this book provides indispensable advice.

Pretty Good House is well-organized and conversational in tone. It features more than 200 color photos. More than 80 maps, graphs, tables and illustrations explain complex subjects.

THE BIBLIOPHILE

By Dinah Rokach

Gain the confidence to make sound choices and supervise the work. Think of it as required reading in a course on building science — that’s the term used by the four authors to describe their professions in the 21st century.

The book explains technical terms such WRBs, window U-factors and R-factors. Read advice on how to hire and collaborate with professionals. You’ll finish this book wiser and more confident in making decisions that are costly and difficult to reverse.

The authors are two architects, a contractor and a building designer/renovator. They espouse environmentally friendly, simple structures that are stylish in design and affordable.

Engineering in Plain Sight: An Illus-

trated Field Guide to the Constructed Environment, by Grady Hillhouse, 251 pages, No Starch Press hardcover, 2022

You may not live near a dam, port or wind farm, but you surely drive on roads, through tunnels and over bridges. You walk past utility poles and transmission wires.

Are you curious about the cryptic markings and metal tags on utility poles? Did you know some buttons at crosswalks are placebos and don’t hasten green lights for pedestrians?

Engineering in Plain Sight provides a comprehensive and logical explanation of the many types of construction that we encounter in our daily lives.

Lessons about infrastructure are organized into eight chapters. “Keep an eye out” sidebars provide fun facts about 40 subjects such as bridge expansion joints, cofferdams and geostationary satellites. More

ENTERPRISE RESIDENTIAL

MOST COMMUNITIES ARE 62 AND BETTER

ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY

The Greens at Hammonds Lane: 410-636-1141

Park View at Furnace Branch: 410-761-4150

Park View at Severna Park: 410-544-3411

BALTIMORE CITY

Ednor Apartments I: 410-243-0180

Ednor Apartments II: 410-243-4301

The Greens at Irvington Mews: 410-644-4487

Park Heights Place: 410-578-3445

Park View at Ashland Terrace: 410-276-6440

Park View at Coldspring: 410-542-4400

BALTIMORE COUNTY

Cove Point Apartments I: 410-288-2344

Cove Point Apartments II: 410-288-1660

Evergreen Senior Apartments: 410-780-4888

The Greens at English Consul: 410-789-3000

The Greens at Liberty Road: 410-655-1100

The Greens at Logan Field: 410-288-2000

The Greens at Rolling Road: 410-744-9988

Park View at Catonsville: 410-719-9464

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

Park View at Fullerton: 410-663-0665

Park View at Miramar Landing: 410-391-8375

Park View at Randallstown: 410-655-5673

BALTIMORE COUNTY (CONT.)

Park View at Rosedale: 410-866-1886

Park View at Taylor: 410-663-0363

Park View at Towson: 410-828-7185

Park View at Woodlawn: 410-281-1120

EASTERN SHORE

Park View at Easton: 410-770-3070

HARFORD COUNTY

Park View at Bel Air: 410-893-0064

Park View at Box Hill: 410-515-6115

HOWARD COUNTY

Park View at Colonial Landing: 410-796-4399

Park View at Columbia: 410-381-1118

Park View at Ellicott City: 410-203-9501

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

Park View at Emerson: 301-483-3322

Park View at Snowden River: 410-290-0384

PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY

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

Park View at Laurel: 301-490-1526

Park View at Laurel II: 301-490-9730

than 50 full page color illustrations show the components of manmade structures.

Share this book with a grandchild or young protege. Expose them to a career that could take them from playing with LEGOs to graduate studies in engineering.

The Einstein Effect: How the World’s Favorite Genius Got into Our Cars, Our Bathrooms, and Our Minds, by Benyamin Cohen, 384 pages, Sourcebooks paperback, 2023

The discoveries of Albert Einstein continue to impact our everyday lives. Explore how devices we have come to rely on, such as GPS, remote control devices and supermarket scanners, are based on his findings.

Author Benyamin Cohen takes readers in hand and explains, with the help of experts he interviews, these concepts: the general theory of relativity, the special theory of relativity, Brownian motion, the photoelectric effect and more.

Cohen brings to life aspects of Einstein’s life as a refugee from Nazism, his influence in founding the Hebrew University and his civil rights advocacy.

Today, the International Rescue Committee, which is the successor of an organization he founded, continues his work on behalf of refugees.

While Einstein favored the U.S. development of an atomic bomb to counter Nazi Germany, his subsequent pacifism and objection to the development of the hydrogen bomb are touched upon.

To keep the narrative light, Cohen discusses the world of social media and the celebrity status of Einstein. Cohen manages the social media accounts of Albert Einstein on behalf of the Albert Einstein Archives in Jerusalem, which has 20 million followers. A portion of the book’s royalties are donated to the Archives.

Einstein’s legacy lives on in inspiring and encouraging those who, like him, were not branded as stellar students but developed in the shadow of more successful scholars.

BEACON BITS

Mar. 24

Part of the Environmental Film Festival, the documentary “One with the Whale” follows an Alaska Native family’s struggle to recover from animal activists’ online assaults against their teenage son, the youngest person to ever harpoon a whale for his village. The free screening takes place on Sun., March 24 from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Rasmuson Theater, National Museum of the American Indian, 4th St. and Independence Ave., Washington, DC. Registration not required. For more information, email nmai-info@si.edu.

said they panicked a bit when they saw ABC’s suggested packing list, which they had to put together quickly (contestants had to bring their own clothes). While both women already owned some beautiful dresses, they quickly shopped to fill out their wardrobe for the show.

Once they arrived, they still didn’t have everything they needed for all occasions. So, the contestants generously shared with one another — everything from shoes to dresses to styling help.

“It was almost like I was back in college in my sorority. We all were really supportive of one another, and that included doing one another’s hair and makeup,” Vassos said.

Both women found that the show was

less of a competition than they expected. While they hoped to find a soulmate, they also wanted to be sure it was the right match for Turner and for the woman he would ask to marry him. So, they decided to help one another look and feel their best.

But it wasn’t all about glammed-up looks, Hulkower said. “I also like that some of us...were more natural in some of the settings. If I was watching it, I would want to see some people who weren’t all dolled up.”

Indeed, the women left the program thrilled that they represented so many viewers who don’t necessarily wear ball gowns on dates.

“We wanted it to be a platform for good,” Hulkower said. “I hope that people see that at our age, when you have been divorced or widowed, you will still have hope.”

While most contestants stayed for about a month, both DMV women left the show after the first few episodes. Vassos had a tearful goodbye with Turner, departing because her daughter had just given birth and needed support.

Hulkower left in part due to an injury that made it hard to walk up and down the mansion’s stairs. But she also realized that she and Turner weren’t clicking the same way he was with some of the other women.

Since their television debuts, the two D.C.-area residents have received wonderful feedback from locals who watched the show.

“People approach me all the time,” Vassos said, including young women who want to fix her up with their fathers, and women her age who say, “You’re such an inspiration.”

Hulkower hears the same types of comments. “Most people have said, ‘Oh my gosh, you girls are so great. You have so much fun together, it made me want to get back out there again.’”

But like anyone in the dating world, Hulkower and Vassos said they know they have to keep at it until they find the partner who is right for them. Hulkower took up pickleball and plans to start golfing, in part as a way to meet people.

Experience boosted confidence

Fortunately, they gained some new skills as golden bachelorettes. The talent competition, a staple of the “Bachelor” se-

ries, was a place to push themselves past their comfort zones, performing for an audience of 300 in the studio and millions more on TV.

“I felt like I grew a lot because I just got up there and I [found that] making a fool of yourself onstage can be charming,” Vassos said.

Indeed, her performance, reading a comedic poem she wrote, endeared her to Turner, who picked her for a romantic one-on-one date.

Those daring talent show performances, like everything else on the show, were a bit easier for contestants due to the bighearted sisterhood the women forged.

“I was sitting by Joan at the talent show and we were holding hands,” Hulkower said.

“I felt like I was cheering on my six-yearold in her first kindergarten play. We were more supportive and there for each other than it was competitive.”

The women’s family members cheered for them from home as well, watching their mothers or grandmothers on TV.

“They saw me not just as their mom,” Hulkower said. “I think they saw me as a grown woman, a single woman who’s ready for love and wants to find someone.”

Her kids also discovered that their mom wasn’t the only older woman in search of lasting love, which she said “was revelatory for them.”

An expert’s advice on how to write books

By H. Dennis Beaver

Q: I am the fourth-generation CEO of our family’s agricultural services business. I want to write a book about our history, the people who have been at the helm for over 100 years, and show our business community just how dedicated to their needs we have always been. So there’s a PR benefit I’m trying to achieve here.

Candidly, I don’t know a thing about what’s involved. Do you have some suggestions on how to get started, and how to not get taken advantage of by the internet ads I see promising to create a best-seller if I give them two hours of my time?

A: I ran this question by Caroline Lam-

Bachelorettes

From page 34

Still searching

While Hulkower and Vassos gained powerful friendships from the show, neither woman found a new husband.

Theresa Nist was the woman who won Turner’s heart. She married him in a televised wedding on January 4. Both local women are thrilled for the couple, and they left the show with their hearts open to the possibility that lasting love awaited them.

Like the other bachelorettes who were smitten by Turner, Vassos was initially quite attached to him.

“I started to feel for the first time like I was ready for love,” she said. “It’s been two years since my husband passed away. In my head, I knew logically that’s what I wanted, but my heart wasn’t there yet. My heart got there on the show.”

Both women have stayed busy with additional appearances on “Bachelor” shows since then. They attended Turner and Nist’s

BEACON BITS

Mar. 21

bert, who is an internationally recognized ghostwriter and book collaborator. She provided down-to-earth recommendations for anyone who is thinking of writing a non-fiction book.

Lambert began our interview with these cautionary statistics and highly focused questions an author must be able to answer:

“Only 10% of all books sell 10,000 copies in the first year, which pays for the publishing costs. Below that, a publisher does not make back its money.

“Statistically, few books even sell 1,000 copies. Very few sell a million copies. If someone goes into it thinking to sell millions of copies and become famous and rich, their odds would be better in Las Vegas!”

wedding. Hulkower also flew back to L.A. to talk to some of the girls who are contestants on the current edition of “The Bachelor.”

Although both have had several offers to date and connected briefly with a few prospective men, neither has found a match.

“I’m still looking. You can put that out there,” Hulkower said with a smile.

If ABC asked them to appear in the first “Golden Bachelorette,” a spin-off planned for this fall, they said they would certainly be interested.

“I would love it if they would find me 22 eligible bachelors to choose from. I think I could find love in one of them,” Vassos said.

The women stay connected through group texts, calls and their recent D.C. visit. They cheer one another on while each continues their search for the men who will retire as golden bachelors — and become golden husbands.

If you’re interested in applying for an upcoming season of “Golden Bachelor” or “Golden Bachelorette,” visit BachelorNation.com, click on “casting,” select “Golden Bachelor” and complete the appropriate online application.

LEARN GOOGLE’S WORKSPACE

If you don’t want to pay for software, attend this free class and learn about some of Google’s most popular productivity tools, like Docs, Sheets, Slides, Photos and Drive, and the many free templates available. The event takes place on Thu., March 21 from 3 to 4 p.m. at the Olney Library, 3500 Olney Laytonsville Rd., Olney, MD. Registration not required. For more information, call (240) 773-9545.

BLOSSOM KITE FESTIVAL

Mar. 30

Visit the Washington Monument grounds on Sat., March 30 between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. and enjoy free activities, music, competitions and performances as part of the 2024 Blossom Kite Festival. You don’t need to be a kite enthusiast to join in the fun. For more information, including the list of performers and photos from last year’s festival, visit bit.ly/DCkites.

MYSTERY BOOK CLUB

Apr. 2

If you can’t resist a good mystery, join the Mystery Book Club, which meets each month at the Chantilly Library to discuss a different mystery novel. The title for April is The Daughter of Doctor Moreau by Silvia Moreno-Garcia, a reimagining of The Island of Doctor Moreau set against the backdrop of 19th-century Mexico. This free event takes place on Tue., April 2 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at 4000 Stringfellow Rd., Chantilly, VA. Registration not required. For more information, call (703) 502-3883.

Still, she points out, there are valid reasons to write a book that may only sell a few copies — such as family memoirs. Whatever your motivation, it is critical that you ask yourself these questions:

1. Why do you want to write this book?

• Who is your audience? What do you want this book to do for your readers?

• What questions do you want to answer for them, or what problems are you trying to help them solve?

• What do you want this book to do for you? What are you trying to achieve? Are there some ideas that you want to share? Is your purpose business promotion, services that you want to sell? Or are you writing just for your family?

The answer to the why is that you need a central thread that ties everything together so that you never lose track as to what this book seeks to accomplish and who you are writing it for.

2. How much staying power do you have for this project? (Hint: It takes more than just time.)

Writing a full-length book by yourself requires a lot of staying power. Besides skill, it takes effort and time.

Unless you are clear as to why you are doing it and have a compelling reason that gives you a desire and motivation, at some point, you may hit a roadblock, such as getting stuck on a structure issue

See WRITING ADVICE, page 37

Scrabble answers on p. 39.

A Tasteful Puzzle By Stephen Sherr

Across 1. Scene 1, ___ 1 (start of filming)

5. Lethargic one

9. Party for teens

13. Arm bone

14. Novelist Pierre (and an anagram for “toil”)

15. The Swifties, at a Taylor Swift concert

16. They may lead to inflamed legwear

17. Ride-hailer, profitable for the first time in 2023

18. Descends Splash Mountain

19. Clapbacks

22. Catching some z’s

23. Bit of ice cream on a tiny spoon

27. Norma ___ (Sally Field role)

28. College Board exam since 1971

30. “Ich bin ___ Berliner” (JFK)

31. All the way, no matter what

35. Folk singer Guthrie

36. Grassland

37. ___ Bible: A Woman’s Guide to the Old Testament

38. The losing team’s whining (to the winners)

43. Good blackjack card, usually

44. Ends to vest- and prest-

45. End of a college student’s e-mail address

46. Back out of a promise

48. Part of a 1-800-FLOWERS bouquet

52. Best place to hit a tennis ball

56. Hidden treasure

59. Soft mineral

60. Prefix for the world’s most populous nation

61. Red Cross request

62. Crafts seen in Aliens: Zone-X

63. Swerve

64. Makes a baby blanket

65. Movie reviewer Siskel or Shalit

6. Lightly cooked, as an egg

Down

1. Home to Oral Roberts University

2. Pseudonym

3. Solemn bell sound

4. Egg hunter

5. Popular convenience store offering

6. Spot for clip-on earrings

7. School that plays at the Sun Bowl, briefly

8. One supported by the Malala Fund

9. Rainbow maker

10. Spare the ___, spoil the child

11. Be in arrears

12. GP’s and ENT’s

15. “The best way to predict the future is to ___ it” (Lincoln)

20. Okeydokey

21. Words between help and hand

24. Exasperate

25. Two may intersect at a point

26. Football pass-catchers

28. Fishing spots

29. Without women

31. Temporary peace

32. Co-worker of Kent and Lane

33. Color in 46 state flags

34. Disgusting

35. Not quite closed

39. Exhaled, emotionally

40. S-shaped curve

41. Trade away the hostages

42. Mine entrance

47. Cultural values

49. Sleeping disorder

50. Writes computer instructions

51. “Nobody is a villain in their own ___” (George R. R. Martin)

53. Excessively self-pleased

54. One on the family insurance plan

55. MBA class

56. Trapper John, M.D. network

57. Bitter beer

58. Sea lioness

Writing advice

From page 35

or some other frustration.

So, you’ve got to keep your eyes on the finish line, or you may write a chapter or two and put it on the shelf, never finishing the book.

3. Do you have what you need?

• Do you have enough material, or do you need to do research? Are interviews needed?

• How much free time do you have to write?

• Do you have the skills to write a book by yourself?

4. Should you consider working with a ghostwriter or writing coach?

A ghostwriter is a professional writer who writes on your behalf — and “becomes you” in terms of style and voice. Authors who don’t have the time or skills needed to write a book often go that route.

Even though it is faster than doing it yourself, don’t expect your book to be written in a week, however. It can be a long process.

Reputable ghostwriters will have a proper contract that sets out the various rights and responsibilities each of you have, including whether their name will appear on the book cover with yours.

A writing coach supports you through what, for many, is the challenge posed by writing itself. But you hold the pen.

5. What kind of publishing will you do? Traditional, hybrid or self-publishing?

If traditional publishers aren’t interested in your book, or you’re not interested in traditional publishers, then you can selfpublish.

Self-published authors are responsible for all of the costs in book development: production, printing, distribution and marketing, but retain all of the profits (if any!).

You can do it all yourself or turn to companies that can help with self-publishing. Beware of publishers who advertise, “Give us two hours, and we will write a bestselling book for you.” Research, research, research them! Use your business judgment. Are they reputable? Do they produce quality books?

If you’re aiming higher on the quality scale, then hybrid publishing could be the right choice, as it is often described as a

ONE BIG HAPPY

By Rick Detorie

partnership with shared responsibilities, guidance and control throughout. Authors still cover most of the costs, but hybrid publishers typically bring expertise similar to traditional publishing.

Lambert concluded our interview with

Classifieds continued from page 38

Wanted Wanted

I BUY OLD GUNS (Military/Civilian) and MILITARY MEDALS, uniforms, insignia, books & more from the Civil War, World Wars I and II, Korea, Vietnam to present. I have a Federal Firearms License to purchase firearms from estates and individuals. Located in MD -but will travel. I also buy West Point & Naval Academy memorabilia and items from Generals and Admirals. Client testimonials on my website: www.midatlanticmilitaryantiques.com Call, email or text. Tim Frank 703-447-7243 historian1975@gmail.com

COINS, ANTIQUES, JEWELRY - Liquidating an estate? Moving? Downsizing? Buying antiques, collectibles jewelry, gold, silver, wristwatches, pocket watches, older comic books, toys, trains, older baseball cards, and memorabilia, old golf football, military items, firearms, knives, books, records, Asian antiques, mid-century decor, etc. Call Tom: 240-476-3441

CASH FOR JEWELRY: Buying jewelry, diamonds, gold, platinum, silver, watches, coins, flatware, etc. Ask for Tom. Call anytime, 301-654-8678 (Reg. 883).

this observation: “Never forget the why.” Find out more about her and what she does at her website, CarolineLambert.com.

Dennis Beaver practices law in Bakersfield, Calif., and welcomes comments and questions

BEACON

Mar. 16+

BITS

from readers at Lagombeaver1@gmail.com. Visit DennisBeaver.com.

© 2024 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

WOMEN OF THE FREER GALLERY TOUR

Celebrate the women in the collection of the National Museum of Asian Art during Women’s History Month. Docent-led tours will introduce you to influential women throughout the gallery, where you’ll have an opportunity to learn their stories. This free event takes place Mondays and Saturdays, from noon to 1 p.m. Meet at the Freer Gallery Information Desk, 1050 Independence Ave. SW, Washington, DC. No reservation required. For more information, call (202) 633-1000.

ESTATE PLANNING PRESENTATION

Apr. 12

Learn the essentials of estate planning, including the planning process, wills vs. trusts, probate vs. non-probate, planning for incapacity, the importance of financial powers of attorney and advance medical directives, asset protection for children and more. This free presentation takes place on Fri., April 12 from 11 a.m. to noon at the Quince Orchard Library, 15831 Quince Orchard Rd., Gaithersburg, MD. Registration not required. For more information, call (240) 777-0200.

The Beacon prints classified advertising under the following headings: Business & Employment Opportunities; Caregivers; Computer Services; Entertainment; For Sale; For Sale/Rent: Real Estate; Free; Health; Home/ Handyman Services; Miscellaneous; Obituaries; Personals; Personal Services; Vacation Opportunities; and Wanted. For submission guidelines and deadlines, see the box on page 39

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.

&

970 MILLION PEOPLE SUFFER FROM MENTAL ILLNESS. Now you can help them and earn income in the process. AffiliatePodcast.Org

FIDELITY HOME HEALTHCARE (RNowned) We provide skilled & unskilled care that optimizes our clients’ & their families’ quality of life & wellbeing. This empowers them to retain or regain their independence, thus maximizing their participation in society. Our professional care givers are vetted & highly experienced. Our services include: skilled nursing, personal care support, companion & sitter, respite care, & more... Contact us: info@fidelityhomecareinc.com. Tel: 240-264-6846 / 703-675-8633

A HOME HEALTHCARE- Experienced nurses, CNA, GNA are available 24/7. Cooking, companionship, personal care, housekeeping, driving. Full/Part-time or live-in care. 15 years of experience. 240-533-6599

MOBILE HAIR & NAIL SERVICES - WE COME TO YOU. Professional Licensed Hair Stylist. Women and Men’s Services - All Hair Types. Cuts, Styles, Roller Sets, Color, Perms, Men’s Cuts & Facial Grooming, Manicures & more. Call 301-338-8251

A CARE AGENCY - Been in business for more than 10 years. Experienced nurses, CNAs, GNAs. Any hours you need. Flat rate for live-in. Duties include cooking, housekeeping, bathing, errands, etc. Tel: 667-231-8235

SENIOR CONCIERGE SERVICE. Providing quality services for activities of daily living and errands runner. Enhance your daily life with a caring, dependable, and trustworthy senior caregiver boasting 15 years of experience as a CNA. With excellent interpersonal and communication skills, along with a compassionate approach, I am here to assist you or your loved ones. Please contact me today, Sandra at (301) 928-6668 or email: sandra.kinol@yahoo.com. Resumes and referrals are available upon request.

CAREGIVER TO CARE FOR YOUR LOVED ONES, live in, live out, full-time, parttime. I will do Dr appointments, daily hygiene, grocery shopping, daily activities. Excellent references. 30 years of experiences. Call Laverne 301-996-1385.

A COMPASSIONATE HOME CARE COM-

PANION - Providing loving, trustworthy, devoted care for your loved one. Available part time in Montgomery County. HOSPICE trained, 20+ years experience, A+ references. Please call SADIE (240) 522-9591, leave voice message for reply.

PROBLEM WITH YOUR PC/MAC OR NETWORK? Computer Systems Engineer will come to you with help. Call David G. at: 301-328-2112 / 301-642-4526

PORTABLE OXYGEN CONCENTRATOR

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

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

SAFE, RELIABLE, PERSONAL DRIVER.

Lifetime local resident. Reasonable rates. Clean, comfortable, spacious vehicle seats multiple riders and/or packages. Airports, trains, doctors, family and social events, theatres, restaurants, casinos. To/from anywhere, local and longer distant other states. Rides available 24/7. Reservations are strongly recommended. For passenger safety, I do not read messages while driving. Phone is best for fast response. Call to book, or with any questions 7am-10pm. Emergency calls are welcome at any time, if needed. Steven Saidman... C/T 301-9338899... Email Steve.Your.Driver@gmail. com

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

DIGITAL BURIAL EXPENSE PROGRAM.

Age 18-70. No medical questions. $4000 benefit. 36 month limited benefit. $27 per month. Sign up online or by phone www.kingdomfinancialgroupworldwide.com or Call: (833) 611-3426

TAX PREPARATION: All types of returns, reasonable rates; 35+ years of tax experience and licensed CPA. Located in Gaithersburg, MD near Quince Orchard Rd and Great Seneca Hwy. Call or email: DIANE CHRISTEN CPA; 240-355-1135; dianechristen@aol.com.

UP TO $15,000.00 OF GUARANTEED

LIFE INSURANCE! No medical exam or health questions. Cash to help pay funeral and other final expenses. Call Physicians Life Insurance Company - 866-212-1092 or visit www.Life55plus.info/beacon

FOR SALE NATIONAL MEMORIAL

PARK, 2 choice sites in desirable Block A, a $14,000 value. Includes Vaults and Markers an additional $6,000 value. Total package of $20,000 discounted to $8,200 or OBO. Call Joe 703-969-5111.

NEW WINDOWS FROM WINDOW

NATION. Special money saving offer - zero down, zero payments, zero interest for TWO years AND buy 2 windows and get 2 FREE! Offer is valid for select models. Labor not included. Other restrictions apply. Call Window Nation today! 855-909-2278.

PARKLAWN CEMETERY, ROCKVILLE, MD - turf topped crypt, block 28 v, unit 1497, levels a & b. 1 unit, 2 chambers, tier type (2 burial rights). $5,000. Call Deborah, 301-805-5030.

NATIONAL MEMORIAL PARK. 2 sites in Block D, Lot 224, Sites 1 & 2. Selling both together for $5995. Call Jim at 540-748-1659.

NATIONAL MEMORIAL PARK FALLS

CHURCH VA. 2 double depth sites in Block HH. Current price $13,000 each selling for $6,000 each. Phone (910) 575-0258

BURIAL SITES — GATE of HEAVEN

CEMETERY. Choice Section 10. 4 Lots (#746, 747, 748, 749) each Lot has 2 sites. Asking $2,300 each site. Discounts if buy more now. (Cemetery price is $2,855, with increases annually). Call or Text 301-807-8919

PREPARE FOR POWER OUTAGES

TODAY with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-301-960-3174 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. it’s a power move.

DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 400 plus procedures. Real dental insurance - NOT just a discount plan. Do not wait! Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details! 1-844366-1003 www.dental50plus.com/320 #6258

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

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

DON’T LET THE STAIRS LIMIT YOUR MOBILITY! Discover the ideal solution for anyone who struggles on the stairs, is concerned about a fall or wants to regain access to their entire home. Call AmeriGlide today! 1-866-365-5170.

THE BATHROOM OF YOUR DREAMS in as little as 1 day. Limited Time Offer - $1000 off or No Payments and No Interest for 18 months for customers who qualify. BCI Bath & Shower. Many options available. Quality materials & professional installation. Senior & Military Discounts Available. Call Today! 1-855-653-0087.

JACUZZI BATH REMODEL can install a new, custom bath or shower in as little as one day. For a limited time, we’re cutting installation costs in half and offering a FREE safety upgrade! (Additional terms apply. Subject to change and vary by dealer.) Offer ends 3/31/24. Call 1-833-994-0538

NORTH VA ELECTRICAL SERVICES. We Install: Ceiling Fans, Recessed Lights, Chandeliers, Power outlets & Other related work. We are Licensed & Insured. Feel free to call or text to: (703) 898 0797

SLOWING DOWN AFTER 42 YEARS OF CONTRACTING. Small to medium jobs mainly residential but will do some commercial work. Will work all over DC area. $45.00 from arrival on job. Andy 703-906-5429.

DOWNSIZING OR LIQUIDATING AN ESTATE? Don’t throw money away! Our specialists understand today’s market trends. Our innovative process helps you decide what to keep, gift, sell, donate, or discard. Services include estate liquidation, downsizing, junk removal, and estate sales. We also buy estates, vehicles, and houses. Call Philip at 301-219-3600 or DownsizingSpecialists.com. Free estimates. Licensed. Insured. Family owned. Downsizing doesn’t erase history, it shapes the legacy left behind!

AMERICAN RESIDENTIAL HEATING & COOLING. As temps outside start to climb, the season for savings is now. $49 cooling or heating system tune up. Save up to $2000 on a new heating and cooling system (restrictions apply.) FREE estimates. Many payment options available. Licensed and insured professionals. Call today 1-877-691-0273.

MOBILE NOTARY FOR THE MONTGOMERY COUNTY AREA Seniors! I come out to you! I Notarize Wills, Power of Attorney, Financial Forms for Banks, Letters for Travel, Car Title Transfers and much more! Contact me today to get a quick quote- 240-750-3544 OR CreativeMDMom@gmail.com.

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

SWITCH AND SAVE UP TO $250/YEAR on your talk, text and data. No contract and no hidden fees. Unlimited talk and text with flexible data plans. Premium nationwide coverage. 100% U.S. based customer service. For more information, call 1-833-742-1303.

SEEKING ROOMMATE. Looking for a quiet and friendly woman between the ages of 60 - 75 to share a nice house in the White Oak area of Silver Spring, MD. We are a vegetarian household. Please call Carol between 5— 7:30 pm any day of the week. (301) 754-1289.

A PRETTY LADY, EARLY 60’S - Retired, interested in meeting an attractive, kind Gentleman 60’S, for fun outings, companionship, possible relationship. Call Anne (240) 351-8001, please leave voice message for reply.

GET DISH SATELLITE TV + INTERNET!

Free Install, Free HD-DVR Upgrade, 80,000 OnDemand Movies, Plus Limited Time Up To $600 In Gift Cards. Call Today! 1-844-560-5837

DIRECTV SPORTS PACK - 3 MONTHS ON US! Watch pro and college sports LIVE. Plus over 40 regional and specialty networks included. NFL, College Football, MLB, NBA, NHL, Golf and more. Some restrictions apply. Call DIRECTV 1-888-572-4953.

WANTED: OLDER VIOLINS, GUITARS, BANJOS, MANDOLINS, UKULELES. Musician/collector will pay cash for older string instruments. Jack (301) 279-2158, leave message & phone number (please speak slowly).

CASH FOR JEWELRY; Gold, silver, costume. Watches, coins, turquoise, dental gold, etc. TheAtticLLC.com. Gary Roman; 301-520-0755. 18SH-004233

WILL BUY MILITARY, WWII, WWI, Civil War memorabilia items. Uniforms, weapons, helmets, photos, war souvenirs, medals, photos or any other items associated with U.S., German, Japanese or other military history. Call Dave (240-464-0958) or email (david.obal63@gmail.com).

CASH FOR RECORDS, CDS AND DVDS.

Best price guaranteed. Free appraisals. All types of music {33, 45, 78 & CDs.} Also buying turntables and stereo equipment. Will make house calls with CURBSIDE PICKUPS. Call or text Steve at 301-646-5403

BOOKS, DVD OR CD COLLECTIONS

WANTED. House calls made. Call Nelson at 240 472 4615 to set up an appointment.

I PERSONALLY COLLECT AND WANT TO BUY old Christmas and Halloween decorations, Herend and Royal Copenhagen porcelain, costume and fine jewelry and other pretty things. I also buy out estates, full or partial. Or, I can send items to auction for you. Please call Susan, (301) 785-1129. Maryland license #2753.

CASH FOR ESTATES; I buy a wide range of items. Art, antiques, jewelry, cultural items, furniture, rugs, collections/accumulations. TheAtticLLC.com. Gary Roman; 301-520-0755

BUYING VINYL RECORDS from 1950 to 1990 JAZZ, ROCK, BLUES, R&B, DISCO, SOUL, REGGAE, & GOSPEL, ANY VINYL FORMAT 33 1/3 RPM Albums, small 45 RPM’s & some 78 RPM, Also CD’s, Prefer LARGER COLLECTIONS AT LEAST 100 items, PLEASE CALL JOHN 301-596-6201

Deadlines

Adult Day Services

Funeral Services

Home Health Care

Clinical Health Studies

& Job Training

Events

. . .1, 7

Brooke Grove Retirement Village . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

Charles E. Smith Life Communities . . . . . . . . . .15

Chevy Chase House . . . . . .11

Churchill Senior Living . . . .8

Culpepper

Grandview, The/Erickson . . .7

Greenspring/Erickson . . . .1, 7

Falcons Landing . . . . . . . . .40

Homecrest House . . . . . . .

Leggett,

Park

Residences

Riderwood/Erickson

• $25 for 1-250 • $35 for 251-500. • $50 for 501-750 (maximum length). The website will calculate this amount for you.

Note: Maryland contractors must provide a valid MHIC number.

• Each real estate listing qualifies as one ad. • All ads are subject to publisher’s discretion. Payment will be refunded if unacceptable for any reason. To

Woodleigh

Legal Services

Farr

Law Offices of Paul

. . . . . . . . . . . .23

Medical/Health Services

Chesapeake Hearing . . . . . .11

Eyeland EyeCare . . . . . . . . . .4

Ikon Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

Judy Oh, DDS . . . . . . . . . . .13

Kidney Disease Screening .10

Medical Eye Center . . . . . .16

Preferred Hearing Center . . .9

Stephen Friedman, DDS . . .16

Real Estate

Services/Moving

Continental Movers . . . . . . . .6

Eric Stewart/Long & Foster . .22

Maryland Senior Concierge . .6

Senior Resources

DC Living Boldly Newsletter . . . . . . . . .18-19

DC DISB/ Income Tax Credits . . . . . .9

Getting Older/Eric Stewart . .22

GROWS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16

Maryland Senior Concierge . .6

Mont. Co. Age-Friendly Newsletter . . . . . . . . . . . .14

Seabury Resources for the Aging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

Senior HelpLine . . . . . . . . .28

Senior Tech Pro . . . . . . . . . .17

F.

Johns

National

Toby’s

Bloomberg

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29

Washington

( d ) rea e y-to- y)njo

as e w er Th

g, y din an L o or y tle f lit

e MRE d th in ou’ll f e. But th our appetit e t en th e wh s a tim

g ethin som or dy f aer

ent ym our enjo y

e— e don s ar y ose da

y culina ed b c eplar

env on dc kan gquic

d c k an g quic

g ethin som

ou , elegant eor m

o eep y o k t

or k f c a g b omin ou c

370 CALL

ktailwith oc ac nient e l ou’r er y eth Wh

y delights ar ons alc —at F

or g f in ook

g of ought of livin th dsor ien r hf

optio g dinin eethr r

s did ff MRE L

ktail with , a c !

esur ear ons ds or h f