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VOL.31, NO.4

She built more than a restaurant

I N S I D E …

PHOTO BY GREG WAGNER

SEE SPECIAL INSERT Housing & Homecare Options following page 22

ARTS & STYLE

From farm to table

Virginia Ali and her late husband, Ben Ali, co-founded Ben’s Chili Bowl on U Street NW in 1958. She has been actively involved in its operations for more than 60 years. The landmark restaurant remains a neighborhood hub, and has spawned two additional locations and two other restaurants around the metro area.

Ali grew up on a farm in rural Virginia and attended segregated schools. Her family moved to Washington, D.C., in the 1950s, and she took a job as a commercial bank teller on the thriving U Street corridor, known then as Black Broadway. She remembers the week Ben Ali, a Howard University student who grew up

in Puerto Rico, visited the bank three days in a row, gave her his phone number and told her to call him. “I thought he was cute, but that wasn’t something I was going to do in late 1956.” Impatient for a response, he called her at work.

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Happy ever after is only half the story in Into the Woods at Ford’s Theatre; plus, Bob Levey on mandatory retirement age, and books that shine a light on page 35 social justice.

“He said, ‘This is Ben Ali. Why didn’t you call me?’” Ali remembered. “I said, ‘Because I don’t know you,’ and he said, ‘What would you like to know?’ “And then he told me about his entire life,” See VIRGINIA ALI, page 37

TECHNOLOGY

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By Margaret Foster Every day, Virginia Rollins Ali, 85, stops by the landmark restaurant she and her late husband, Ben, opened on D.C.’s U Street in 1958. She walks from table to table, greeting the regulars, tourists, athletes, politicians and movie stars who visit Ben’s Chili Bowl for a half-smoke, chili cheese fries or a milkshake. Most of the time she gives them a hug. “You’d think she’s known them for 100 years, but they just met,” Ali’s daughter-inlaw Vida said. “That’s the spirit of the Bowl.” Over the past 60 years, Ali has done every kind of work at the restaurant, including cooking on the grill, hiring employees, organizing events, and greeting customers. She still actively works in that community relations role at the Bowl. It was Ali’s success in building a community that brought her to the attention of Seabury Resources for Aging. The nonprofit, which provides housing, care management, meals and more for older adults in the D.C. metro area, will be honoring Ali at its 95th anniversary celebration in May. “We’re honoring older adults who have made significant contributions to the community and continue to do so,” said Kate Lewis, chief advancement officer at Seabury. “We encourage our people to stay engaged, and she certainly is that.”

APRIL 2019

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Home sweet home The other day, we received a call from a say, quite unacceptable. gentleman who told us, in no uncertain This fellow is not a lone wolf, however. terms, that our readers were The Federal Home Loan Mortstaying in their homes for too gage Corporation (which long, and that they should prefers going by the cuddly sell their homes to young moniker “Freddie Mac”) refamilies so that those folks cently decided to investigate could have a chance to live why millennials (born bethe suburban lifestyle, too. tween 1981 and 1997) have His basic message was that a significantly lower homeolder adults should not be so ownership rate than prior genselfish as to stay in their nice erations. big homes when there were Noting the rising propensity Americans of childbearing FROM THE of older adults to “age in place” age who could make better PUBLISHER — choosing to remain in their use of all that space. Instead, By Stuart P. Rosenthal homes and neighborhoods as more of us should downsize they age — the report conand move to condos, apartments, smaller cluded that this behavior has significantly homes or retirement communities for the reduced available housing stock, thus raisgood of the country. ing home prices and keeping millennials Not surprisingly, this would also be from becoming the homeowners they’d like good for the caller himself, as his line of to be. work turned out to be buying older homes, Well, to be fair, the report said aging in fixing them up, and selling them for a prof- place is “one factor” contributing to the it to younger buyers. shortage of homes for sale, and it ended Now there’s nothing wrong with that, as by calling for a boost in the production of long as the homeowners are ready to sell. new housing rather than booting boomers But pushing people out the door before from their homes. they’re ready is, as Miss Manners might And in fact, just two months before,

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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, Howard County, Md. and Richmond, Va. 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 Vice President of Operations – Gordon Hasenei Vice President, Sales & Marketing – Alan Spiegel Managing Editor – Margaret Foster Art Director – Kyle Gregory Director of Operations – Roger King Advertising Representatives – Doug Hallock, Dan Kelly, Hubie Stockhausen Editorial Assistant – PJ Feinstein

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Freddie had published another “Insight Report” citing a number of other reasons for today’s inadequate housing stock. Those included a shortfall in home building dating back to the burst housing bubble and Great Recession, a shortage of skilled labor in the construction industry, rising land costs, opposition to new development in existing communities and many others. You might wonder why the researchers didn’t ask the millennials themselves why they weren’t buying homes with the alacrity of earlier generations. Many studies (including a recent one from the Urban Institute) point to their high student debt burden, years of inability to find work, and their own propensity to settle in trendy urban areas rather than old-fashioned suburbs as some of the causes for their currently lower rates of homeownership. As for older homeowners, there are many reasons — financial, emotional, psychological — why we might want to remain in the homes where we’ve lived for decades, perhaps raised a family, and built ourselves a life. As Freddie admitted at the end of their most recent report, “older Americans prefer to age in place because they are satisfied with their communities, their homes, and their quality of life.” But that doesn’t mean we selfishly want to withdraw from society or prevent younger generations from having a good quality of life too. On the contrary, many of us have embraced a variety of ideas that can help maintain and enhance the quality of life for us and younger generations at the same time, including neighborhood villages (where an old-fashioned sense of community is recreated, with younger and older

residents helping each other), cohousing communities (both multi-generational and senior-focused varieties), and intergenerational home sharing, among others. And it’s not like older homeowners are just sitting in their homes and letting them go to rot. Many of us have spent significant sums retrofitting our homes to make them safer and more accommodating for us and for any visitors with disabilities, and increasing our homes’ energy efficiency by installing smart thermostats, new windows and solar panels. As a result, if and when the time comes when we are ready to relinquish our homes, they should be in better shape and more useful to future buyers. Whenever I see it, I feel it’s important to call out researchers and journalists whose work reinforces a stereotype that older adults are at economic war with younger ones and that we care only for ourselves. Like any stereotype, there might be a few who fit it, but it is by no means representative of the group as a whole. I look forward to reading a report in the future that — rather than treating older adults as one more “factor” in society’s mistreatment of the young — praises us for staying independent as long as possible, and for taking better care of ourselves, our homes and our communities. Note: We address many of the topics touched on above in our quarterly “Housing and Home Care Options” pull-out sections precisely because they affect so many of us. You’ll find our most recent section in the center of this month’s Beacon, after page 22.

Letters to the editor Readers are encouraged to share their opinion 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 e-mail to margaret@thebeaconnewspapers.com. Please include your name, address and telephone number for verification. Dear Editor: I read with interest Elliott Raphaelson’s article in your February issue about the various scams inflicted on seniors. The “IRS impersonation scam” [that I experienced] brought me to a standstill. There is a supposed Treasury hotline to which reports can be made. I called several times, but the voicemail was always full, advising to please hang up and call later. I wrote to the Treasury Department; no answer. I wrote to Senator Cardin’s office. The person to whom I spoke was “not sure” it was a crime, and in any case did not seem to think it was Congress’ problem. My sense is that trying to fight these things is hopeless, because no one in the federal government cares. Just one person’s frustrated opinion. David M. Shea Ellicott City, Md.

Dear Editor: Your March editorial, “Not in our family,” should be mandatory reading for the entire populace. It is so perfectly on point. As a very young devotee of “All in the Family,” I laughed, not out of prejudice or malice, but because it made fun of all of us. No one was spared, and it wasn’t mean or ugly. I’m afraid we have lost our ability to laugh at ourselves or poke good-natured fun at others for fear of being labeled something unpleasant. Thank you for reminding us of who we once were. Judy Massabny Arlington, Va. Dear Editor: Great article [From the Publisher, March See LETTERS TO EDITOR, page 43

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — A P R I L 2 0 1 9

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Age-Friendly Montgomery “I invite you to take part in all the resources our County has to offer.” County Executive Marc Elrich

Enjoy Yourself and Stay Active in Montgomery County! Sports Activities and Exercise Options: To learn about a broad range of sports activities, walking groups, dance classes, exercise classes and other options that may match your interests, call the Montgomery County Department of Recreation at 240-777-4925. If you’re specifically interested in sports leagues, call 240-777-6870. Maryland Senior Olympics: Many people enjoy the friendly competition and camaraderie of Maryland Senior Olympics. With over 20 sports to choose from – including badminton, basketball, track and field, golf, volleyball, swimming and pickleball – there is something for everyone. Many competitions are held in Montgomery County. The theme is, “To participate is to win.” You can learn more and register online at www. mdseniorolympics.org Or, you can call 240-7774930 for information. Registration opens in April and competitions for the various sports begin in May and continue through early fall. Indoor and Outdoor Pools are located around the County. Outdoor pools are open from Memorial Day weekend until Labor Day and indoor pools are open year-round. To learn the location of a swimming pool in your area, call “3-1-1” (240-777-0311) or visit www.montgomerycountymd.gov/senior/recreation. html

County Recreation Centers and Senior Centers offer a wide variety of activities. Find a Center near you by calling “3-1-1” (240-777-0311) or visiting www.montgomerycountymd.gov/senior/recreation. html Visit a nearby Center to learn about open gym and sports activities. Or, visit us online at www. mocorec.com to read about “55+ Active Adult Programs;” review the “Montgomery County Guide” to recreation classes, programs and activities; and, learn how to get a gym, swim or other pass (a Senior Sneakers pass is just $50). Experience Montgomery Parks: Walk, hike or bike on our “gateways to nature,” with over 200 miles of natural and hard surface trails: www. montgomeryparks.org/trails You also might stop by one of the National Parks in Montgomery County, such as Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Park or Glen Echo Park. Information about both is available at: www. montgomerycountymd.gov/senior/recreation.html Day Trips: You can learn about day trips to museums, baseball games, sailing, rafting, etc. Go to www.mocorec.com and review “Montgomery County Recreation SOAR – Senior Outdoor Adventures in Recreation.” Sign up early, as trips tend to fill quickly. For more information about these and other options, visit www.montgomerycountymd.gov/senior/ recreation.html

• Aging & Disability Resource Line 240-777-3000

• 3-1-1 or 240-777-0311 for County programs and services; 9-1-1 for emergency • www.montgomerycountymd.gov/senior

• “Seniors Today” airs on Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays at 6 p.m. on Comcast/RCN 6, Verizon 30

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Technology &

Innovations Home items get ‘smarter,’ like it or not By Anick Jesdanun One day, finding an oven that just cooks food may be as tough as buying a TV that merely lets you change channels. Internet-connected “smarts” are creeping into cars, refrigerators, thermostats, toys and just about everything else in your home. In January, CES 2019 (the gadget show in Las Vegas) showcased many of these products, including an oven that coordinates your recipes and a toilet that flushes with a voice command. With every additional smart device in your home, companies are able to gather more details about your daily life. Some of that can be used to help advertisers target you — more precisely than they could with

just the smartphone you carry. “It’s decentralized surveillance,” said Jeff Chester, executive director for the Center for Digital Democracy, a Washington-based digital privacy advocate. “We’re living in a world where we’re tethered to some online service stealthily gathering our information.” Yet consumers so far seem to be welcoming these devices. The research firm IDC projects that 1.3 billion smart devices will ship worldwide in 2022, twice as many as in 2018. Companies say they are building these products not for snooping but for convenience, although Amazon, Google and other partners enabling the intelligence can use the details they collect to customize their

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services and ads. Whirlpool, for instance, is testing an oven whose window doubles as a display. You’ll still be able to see what’s roasting inside, but the glass can now display animation pointing to where to place the turkey for optimal cooking. The oven can sync with your digital calendar and recommend recipes based on how much time you have. It can help coordinate multiple recipes, so that you’re not undercooking the side dishes in focusing too much on the entree. A camera inside the oven lets you zoom in to see if the cheese on the lasagna has browned enough, without opening the oven door.

As for that smart toilet, Kohler’s Numi will respond to voice commands to raise or lower the lid — or to flush. You can do it from an app, too. The company says it’s all about offering hands-free options in a setting that’s very personal for people. The toilet is also heated, and can play music and the news through its speakers. Kohler also has a tub that adjusts water temperature to your liking, and a kitchen faucet that dispenses just the right amount of water for a recipe.

How inventors think For the most part, consumers aren’t See HOME ITEMS, page 6

❏ Calorie Restriction Study (See ad on page 17) ❏ Hearing Research Study (See ad on page 17) ❏ Pneumococcal Vaccine Study (See article and ad on page 16) ❏ RSV Vaccine Study (See ad on page 16) Address_______________________________________________________________ City______________________________________State______Zip________________ Phone (day)__________________________(evening)_________________________ E-mail_________________________________________________________________

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❏ Ashby Ponds (See ads on pages 1, B-13 & B-19) ❏ Chesterbrook Residences (See ads on pages B-6 & B-19) ❏ Culpepper Garden (See ad on page B-14) ❏ Falcons Landing (See ad on page B-10 & B-20) ❏ Greenspring (See ad on page 1, B-4 & B-13) ❏ Gum Springs Glen (See ad on page B-18) ❏ Herndon Harbor House (See ad on page B-18) ❏ Lockwood House (See ad on page B-18) ❏ Morris Glen (See ad on page B-18) ❏ Overture Fair Ridge (See ad on page B-8) ❏ Potomac Place (See ad on page B-3) ❏ Sommerset (See ads on pages B-7 & B-15) ❏ Sylvestry, The (See ad on page B-14) ❏ Vinson Hall (See ad on page B-4) ❏ Waltonwood (See ads on pages B-7 & B-12) ❏ Wingler House (See ad on page B-18)

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Improve your photography at monthly meetings facilitated by Dale Scherfling, teaching artist at the Capitol Hill Arts Workshop. The next event takes place on Wednesday, April 10, from 7 to 9 p.m. at Pohick Regional Library, 6450 Sydenstricker Rd., Burke, Va. For more information about this free event, call (703) 644-7333 TTY 711.

❏ Alfredhouse(See ad on page 15) ❏ Brooke Grove (See ads on pages 19, 44, B-10, B-16 & B-17) ❏ Churchill Senior Living (See ad on page 15) ❏ Covenant Village (See ads on pages B-10 & B-18) ❏ Emerson House (See ads on pages B-10 & B-18) ❏ Five Star Premier Residences (See ad on page 13) ❏ Gardens of Traville (See ad on page B-2) ❏ Hillside Apartment Homes (See ad on page 14) ❏ Homecrest House (See ads on pages B-3 & B-16) ❏ Homewood (See ad on page B-14) ❏ Kensington Park (See ads on pages B-5 & B-16) ❏ Landing of Silver Spring, The (See ad on page B-3) ❏ Park View Bladensburg (See ad on page 33) ❏ Park View Columbia (See ad on page 33) ❏ Park View Emerson (See ad on page 33) ❏ Park View Laurel (See ad on page 33) ❏ Riderwood (See ads on pages 1, B-7 & B-13) ❏ Springvale Terrace (See ads on pages B-9 & B-19) ❏ Victory Housing (See ads on pages B-4 & B-15)

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Ongoing

❏ Aged Woman’s Home Of Georgetown (see ad on page 6) ❏ Armed Forces Retirement Home (see ad on page 6) ❏ Chevy Chase House (see ad on page B-2 & B-17) ❏ Friendship Terrace (see ads on pages B-9 & B-17) ❏ Modern at Art Place, The (see ad on page 4) ❏ Plaza West (See ad on page B-8)

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There are a few potential hiccups when bringing your virtual numbers into the real world. For example, you’ll need to keep track of virtual card numbers linked to recurring purchases to prevent missed payments. And card issuers say returning items purchased with a temporary number online to a physical store shouldn’t be a problem, but you should bring a copy of your receipt as backup. Check with your issuer about whether paying in person for a hotel or rental car that you reserved online with a virtual card number will work. © 2019 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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With Capital One’s “intelligent assistant” named Eno, for example, your virtual numbers are saved in a control panel, so you can lock or delete individual numbers without affecting the rest of your spending. Two issuers in addition to Capital One currently offer virtual card numbers on most of their credit cards: Bank of America, through its ShopSafe service, and Citi, through its Virtual Account Numbers benefit.

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Several banks offer it

You can create a temporary set of digits for one-time use or for multiple purchases with the same merchant, as well as for recurring purchases, such as Netflix subscriptions. Bank of America and Citi allow you to set expiration dates of up to 12 months in the future. Capital One numbers will expire in five years. Bank of America and Capital One say you will continue to earn rewards when using their virtual card numbers.

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By Miriam Cross Worried about your credit card number falling prey to online breaches or fraud? “EMV chips gave us protection against the cloning of credit cards, but a lot of credit card fraud has moved online,” said Beverly Harzog, credit card expert and author of The Debt Escape Plan. A few card issuers have a solution: virtual credit card numbers. These randomly generated numbers are linked to your credit card, and you can use them instead of your actual card number for online shopping. That means your real number remains hidden from a merchant’s website. If you create different numbers for different online merchants, the fallout in the event of a breach is limited.

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Virtual credit card numbers cut fraud risk

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Technology & Innovations

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From page 4 asking for these specific features. After all, before cars were invented, people might have known only to ask for faster horses. “We try to be innovative in ways that customers don’t realize they need,” Samsung spokesman Louis Masses said. Whirlpool said insights can come from something as simple as watching consumers open the oven door several times to check on the meal, losing heat in the process. “They do not say to us, ‘Please tell me where to put (food) on the rack, or do algorithm-based cooking,’” said Doug Searles, general manager for Whirlpool’s research arm, WLabs. “They tell us the results that

are most important to them.” Samsung has several voice-enabled products, including a fridge that comes with an app that lets you check on its contents while you’re grocery shopping. New this year: Samsung’s washing machines can send alerts to its TVs — smart TVs, of course — so you know your laundry is ready while watching Netflix. Other connected items include: A fishing rod that tracks your location to build an online map of where you’ve made the most catches. A toothbrush that recommends where to brush more. A fragrance diffuser that lets you control how your home smells from a smartphone app. These are poised to join Internet-connected security cameras, door locks and

thermostats that are already on the market. The latter can work with sensors to turn the heat down automatically when you leave home.

Stealthy home surveillance Chester said consumers feel the need to keep up with their neighbors when they buy appliances with the smartest smarts. He said all the conveniences can be “a powerful drug to help people forget the fact that they are also being spied on.” Gadgets with voice controls typically aren’t transmitting any data back to company servers until you activate them with a trigger word, such as “Alexa” or “OK Google.” But devices have sometimes misheard innocuous words as legitimate commands to record and send private conversations. Even when devices work properly, commands are usually stored indefinitely. Companies can use the data to personalize experiences — including ads. Beyond that, background conversations may be stored with the voice recordings and can resurface with hacking or as part of lawsuits or investigations. Knowing what you cook or stock in your fridge might seem innocuous. But if insurers get hold of the data, they might charge you more for unhealthy diets, warned Paul Stephens, director of policy and advocacy at the Privacy Rights Clearinghouse in San Diego. He also said it might be possible to infer ethnicity based on food consumed. Manufacturers are instead emphasizing the benefits: Data collection from the smart faucet, for instance, allows Kohler’s app to display how much water is dispensed. (Water bills typically show water use for the whole home, not individual taps.)

Will “dumb” devices disappear? The market for smart devices is still

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small, but growing. Kohler estimates that in a few years, smart appliances will make up 10 percent of its revenue. Though the features are initially limited to premium models — such as the $7,000 toilet — they should eventually appear in entry-level products, too, as costs come down. Consider the TV. “Dumb” TVs are rare these days, as the vast majority of TVs ship with internet connections and apps, like it or not. “It becomes a check-box item for the TV manufacturer,” said Paul Gagnon, an analyst with IHS Markit. For a dumb one, he said, you have to search for an off-brand, entry-level model with smaller screens — or go to places in the world where streaming services aren’t common. “Dumb” cars are also headed to the scrapyard. The research firm BI Intelligence estimates that by 2020, three out of every four cars sold worldwide will be models with connectivity. No serious incidents have occurred in the United States, Europe and Japan, but a red flag has already been raised in China, where automakers have been sharing location details of connected cars with the government. As for TVs, Consumer Reports says many TV makers collect and share users’ viewing habits. Vizio agreed to $2.5 million in penalties in 2017 to settle cases with the Federal Trade Commission and New Jersey officials. Consumers can decide not to enable these connections. They can also vote with their wallets, Stephens said. “I’m a firm believer that simple is better. If you don’t need to have these so-called enhancements, don’t buy them,” he said. “Does one really need a refrigerator that keeps track of everything in it and tells you you’re running out of milk?” —AP

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Health Fitness &

LOOK BEFORE YOU EAT Not all calories are created equal — there are ways to boost your burn BETTER CHECKUPS Some doctors may forget critical memory checks; be sure yours doesn’t PROTEIN PUNCH Yogurts today, from Greek to coconut milk, have something for everyone PARDON ME? Learn how to become a better active listener, for your sake and others’

Gluten and lactose used in many pills By Lauran Neergaard A man with celiac disease felt sicker after starting a new drug, but it wasn’t a typical side effect. It turns out the pills were mixed with gluten the patient knew to avoid in food — but was surprised to find hiding in medicine. A new report says pills often contain socalled “inactive” ingredients capable of causing allergic or gastrointestinal reactions in small numbers of people sensitive to specific compounds. And it’s hard for those patients, or even their doctors, to tell if a pill contains an extra ingredient they should avoid, according to researchers from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Boston’s Brigham and Women’s Hospital. When the doctor writes a prescription, the pharmacist issues whatever the person’s insurance covers — without discussion of inactive ingredients that are buried in the drug’s labeling. “There’s a tremendous underappreciation of the potential impact that inactive ingredients may have,” said Dr. Giovanni Traverso, a Brigham gastroenterologist who spurred the research after his celiac patient’s trouble.

Inactives affect some Drugs contain an “active ingredient” — what you hope will help your health. Inactive ingredients, which make up the rest of the pill, can make it easier to absorb the drug, improve its taste or extend the shelf life. Most people don’t need to worry about inactive ingredients, but the Boston researchers pointed to rare published reports of reactions in patients with allergies or intolerances to certain compounds — and called for more information about who might be at risk. The study analyzed data on inactive ingredients from a database of more than 42,000 prescription and over-the-counter medicines. An average pill contains eight inactive ingredients, but some contain 20 or more. Consider that 39 percent of older adults take at least five prescription medicines daily, and even a small amount can add up, the researchers reported in the journal Science Translational Medicine. The report found: About 45 percent of the analyzed medications contained lactose. The amounts may be too small for some lactose-intolerant peo-

ple to notice, but someone taking common drugs for high blood pressure and cholesterol could get about a gram a day. A third of medications contained a food dye associated with allergic reactions. More than half contained at least one type of sugar that people with irritable bowel syndrome are supposed to avoid. In a recent survey, 18 percent of manufacturers said their medications contain gluten, which can cause severe reactions if patients with celiac disease consume as little as 1.5 milligrams a day. But labels may list it only as innocuous “starch.”

Check refills, formulations That’s what happened when a patient of Traverso’s experienced worsening celiac symptoms after using a common stomach acid-blocking drug, omeprazole. Traverso had to call the manufacturer to learn that particular formulation contained starch made from wheat. Because refills can bring a different company’s formulation, patients should check the label each time, he added. Patients shouldn’t be alarmed, cautioned one allergy expert not involved with the report.

“It is certainly true that there are reports of allergic reactions to residual food proteins in medications,” said Dr. Roxanne Oriel of the Mount Sinai Jaffe Food Allergy Institute in New York. But, “these types of allergic reactions are quite rare.” Often the amount is too low to trigger a reaction, plus substances like soybean oil are refined to remove the allergy-causing protein before they’re used in medicines, she added. Still, manufacturers of drugs made with refined peanut oil, such as some versions of the hormone progesterone, often put an allergy warning on the label. The issue is getting some attention. A pending Food and Drug Administration proposal recommends adding gluten information to drug labels. And the standard-setting U.S. Pharmacopeia has a panel studying how electronic health records could help doctors and pharmacists better identify patients who need to avoid a certain ingredient. “It can be frustrating for patients” to find the information, said Gerald McEvoy of the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, a member of that panel. —AP

Killing germs can make us less healthy By Claire McCarthy Household disinfectants seem like such a good idea, especially when you have children. After all, children make messes, and killing germs helps keep children healthy, right? Not always, it turns out. Sometimes germs actually keep us healthy and keep us at a healthy weight. More and more, we are learning that not all bacteria are bad. In fact, the bacteria that live naturally in and on our bodies, especially in our digestive tracts, are crucial for health. When we mess with those bacteria, it increases the risk of many problems — including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, cancer and even obesity.

Children especially affected Researchers from Canada used data from the Canadian Healthy Infant Longitu-

dinal Development (CHILD) study to see if there was a connection between the use of household disinfectants by mothers and the weight of their children. They found that indeed, when mothers used household disinfectants (most commonly multi-surface cleaners, hand soap and spray air fresheners), their children were more likely to be overweight or obese at age three. By looking at stool samples from the children when they were infants, they found that this increased risk seemed to be related to a change in the bacteria in the digestive tract. The children whose mothers used disinfectants had less of the bacteria needed for good health. When families use disinfectants, there are fewer bacteria in the house, obviously. Since children spend most of their life indoors, this means that those in “disinfected” homes are exposed to fewer bacteria, and have less of a chance to grow the bacte-

ria that should ideally be living throughout the digestive tract, from mouth to rectum. Interestingly, a study of the bacteria in the mouths of two-year-olds showed that certain mixes of bacteria types increase the risk of rapid weight gain. It’s not just household disinfectants that affect the bacteria in our bodies. Antibiotics and antacids can too, as well as our diet and lifestyle. Obviously, it’s not just bacteria that affect weight gain. Interestingly, in the Canadian study, children of mothers who used eco-friendly cleaning products were less likely to be overweight at three — but this lower risk did not appear to be related to the bacteria in their stool. Instead, the researchers said, it was more likely related to the fact that the mothers in the study who used eco-friendly cleaning products were more likely to breastfeed and to have more education, and less likely to be overweight them-

selves. Breastfeeding, maternal education and maternal weight are factors that are known to affect the weight of children.

What to do about it Given what we know about the many problems that can occur when we get too aggressive about killing bacteria, it’s not a bad idea to rethink our cleaning products. Here are some ideas: Avoid anything that says “antibacterial” on the label. Look for natural cleaning products. Not only are they less likely to kill healthy bacteria, they have fewer dangerous chemicals. Wash your hands — and your children’s hands — with plain soap and water. Consider making your own cleaning products with things like vinegar, baking soda, lemon juice and soap. There are lots See DISINFECTANTS, page 8

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Make your own cleaning products By Katherine Roth To reduce waste and avoid unnecessary plastic bottles and chemicals — and to save money — many people are opting to make cleaning products from scratch at home. You can find an abundance of recipes for household cleaning products online, along with reusable glass spray bottles designed to hold them. But not all homemade cleaning products are created equal, and some simple concoctions can be downright dangerous. Certain combinations can be toxic. When making your own cleaning mixtures at home: Double check the safety of the combination you choose;

Keep all products out of reach of children or pets; And list all ingredients clearly on the jar or spray bottle. Test your cleaning mixture before using it. “Making your own window cleaner may be okay, but years of chemistry and safety research have gone into products like laundry and dishwasher detergents and furniture polishes, and you don’t want to risk accidentally damaging something that’s precious to you,” said Carolyn Forte, director of the cleaning products lab at Good Housekeeping.

Do’s: Know the basics about the cleaning prop-

erties of various household products: — Baking soda is a great deodorizer and is useful as a mild abrasive. — Vinegar cuts grease, removes mineral deposits and has disinfectant qualities. — Lemon juice with some salt can remove rust stains.

Don’ts: — NEVER combine bleach with anything but water. And remember that baking soda and vinegar, while trusted standbys individually, are ineffective for cleaning if combined — and will bubble up explosively. — Don’t use lemon on wood, since it can destroy protective finishes, said Stephanie Sisco, of Real Simple magazine. — Don’t overdo it with vinegar, which can dull surfaces, she added. There’s a reason that cleaning-product recipes call for adding water.

Recipes With the above basics in mind, here are a few recipes recommended by the pros. Window cleaner: For clean, streak-

Disinfectants From page 7 of websites with recipes for inexpensive, effective, safe and bacteria-sparing clean-

free windows, Katy Klick Condon, at Better Homes & Gardens, swears by the combination of 2 cups hot water, 1 tablespoon corn starch, 1/4 cup white vinegar and 1/4 cup rubbing alcohol. “I tested a bunch of recipes, and this one is hands-down the best for mirrors and windows,” she said. All-purpose cleaner: Sisco recommends combining 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 2 cups of water and 1/2 teaspoon of castile soap, such as Dr. Bonner’s. For a stronger cleaner, she recommends mixing 1/2 cup vinegar, 1/2 cup vodka, 10 to 20 drops of essential oil and 1 1/2 cups water. Carpet cleaner: Sisco recommends blotting the stain then saturating it with club soda. “The bubbles will work the stain to the surface,” she said. Then coat it with a hefty dose of table salt, which will absorb the stain. “Then just vacuum it up once it’s dry, maybe 12 hours later. It’s a good overnight cleaning solution, and great for wine and other stains. The key is to blot all excess stain before starting with club soda and salt.” —AP

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Not all calories affect us the same way By Matthew Kadey A long-held belief is that calories are calories no matter if they hail from bacon or broccoli. Take in fewer calories than you burn; that’s your ticket to winning the battle of the bulge. It’s true that any calorie from a food supplies a set amount of energy. But once eaten, things become more complicated. A newer era of research is making it clear that perhaps not all calories are created equal.

The thermic effect The true calorie count of a food may very well be different than what’s labeled due to its “thermic effect” (i.e., the energy required to digest and process it). The best example is protein, which has a higher thermic effect than carbs or fat, so a lower percentage of its calories (4 calories per gram) will be available for storage in the body. In a study in the Journal of the American

Medical Association, people who got 25 percent of their calories from protein burned 227 more calories a day than those who only ate 5 percent of their calories from protein. So even though 3 ounces of chicken breast may have 92 calories on paper, up to 35 percent fewer of those calories will actually be absorbed by the body. Furthermore, “calories from protein have also been shown to have a greater impact on satiety, and hunger is the enemy of weight loss,” said New York weight loss expert Samantha Cassetty, M.S., R.D.

boost as well as extra calorie excretion. “Your body has to work harder to digest a meal containing less-processed carbs, so will burn off more calories to do so,” noted Cassetty. In other words, 100 calories from quinoa are not the same as 100 sugary calories from soda in the weight loss equation. A report in Obesity Reviews noted that calories from sugary drinks play a unique role in health problems, and that disease risk increases even when the beverages are consumed within calorie-controlled diets that do not result in weight gain.

The carb math

Processing matters

A study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition showed that when people ate the same diet except for whole grains versus refined grains, those consuming items like brown rice and whole wheat bread burned almost 100 more calories per day than those who ate the refined versions. This was likely due to both a metabolic

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Any degree of external processing — in-

cluding cooking, grinding and juicing — ruptures cell walls in a food, thereby lessening the energy needed for our bodies to digest it. As a result, we end up with more of its calories. Raw or lightly cooked meat (e.g., sushi and rare steak) require extra internal processing to deal with more tightly wound muscle fibers. Therefore, they supply fewer usable calories than well-done meat. A study in the journal Obesity fed people the same number of calories as either a liquid or solid, and noted that post-meal hunger was greater after liquid calories. Overall, a solid meal leads to a greater See CALORIES, page 10

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Calories From page 9 drop in levels of the hunger-inducing hormone ghrelin, which could help trim overall calorie consumption.

nuts leads to weight gain. “Some calories just work a lot harder for us than others, so if we’re focusing solely on calories alone we’re missing the big picture,” Cassetty said. In other words, calories from candy are not the same as calories from cauliflower.

A P R I L 2 0 1 9 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Boost your (calorie) burn

That’s nuts Fascinating research shows that the amount of energy (calories) derived from nuts — such as almonds, walnuts and pistachios — after we eat them is up to 30 percent less than previously thought. Some of the calories in nuts are found within hard-to-digest cell walls, and microbes in your gut get access to a handful of the nut calories as well, so in the end we don’t absorb all their upfront calories. This is likely one reason why studies have failed to show that eating calorie-dense

Watch the clock Eating calories at certain times of day may also make them less caloric. Data shows that consuming calories earlier in the day can lead to better weight management. “Our biological clocks impact how our bodies handle the calories it receives, and it seems we are primed to deal with the biggest meal of the day in the morning,” Cassetty said. So consider eating breakfast like a king and dinner like a pauper for a bigger calorie burn.

Make the calories you eat work harder for you. Protein burn: Take advantage of the extra calorie cost associated with digesting protein by including this macronutrient at meals and snacks. Fiber up: It takes more effort to breakdown fiber-rich foods, which means a greater calorie burn during digestion. So get chummy with high-fiber items like legumes and vegetables. Go nuts: Snack on whole nuts for a bounty of must-have nutrients. Be label savvy: Look beyond the calorie count and pay attention to the form of their ingredients. Whole blueberries are good, blueberry muffin mix not so much. Avoid the sweet stuff: Calorie for calorie, added sugars seem to be particularly efficient contributors to weight gain. Natural selection: Focus on eating more single ingredient foods like fish, whole seeds and kale, which require your body to work harder to handle them, and in turn burn more calories.

Solid state: Consume more of your daily calories from solid foods and less from liquids. Raw power: Include more high-burning raw foods (like raw sunflower seeds and veggies) into your menu. Larger quantities of raw food require more laborious chewing which expends additional energy and also encourages satiety. Eat bugs: The bacteria in your gut may play a part in how you digest food and how many calories you derive from it. Keep your microbiome in calorieburning shape by including a daily supply of fermented foods like yogurt and sauerkraut. Start early: Consider making your morning meal more substantial and then tapering down calorie intake as the day progresses. Reprinted with permission from Environmental Nutrition, a monthly publication of Belvoir Media Group, LLC. EnvironmentalNutrition.com. © 2019 Belvoir Media Group. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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Discount dental plans may offer savings By Matthew Perrone No dental insurance? You’re not alone. Roughly 1 in 4 Americans, and about half of all older adults, don’t have dental coverage, according to industry figures. Researchers have shown that costs are a bigger obstacle to dental care in the U.S. than all other forms of healthcare. Employers are by far the biggest provider of dental insurance benefits in the U.S., accounting for nearly half of all enrollees, followed by the government’s Medicaid plan for low-income people. Dental discount plans are a lesserknown option, used by just 5 percent of patients with private dental benefits, according to the latest survey figures from the National Association of Dental Plans. Here’s a look at how discount plans work and when they can make sense.

Different from insurance The plans aren’t insurance. Instead, they function like warehouse clubs, giving members access to discounted prices on various dental procedures, ranging from 20 to 60 percent. Discount plans are offered by a number of large health coverage providers, including Aetna, Humana and CVS Health. The networks of dentists who participate can be smaller than insurance networks, limiting patient choice. And they won’t cover the

complete cost of preventive cleanings and Xrays the way most insurance plans do. Still, discount plans can be a good option for patients who might otherwise skip check-ups altogether, said Dr. Dave Preble, senior vice president of the American Dental Association’s Practice Institute. If you get patients to a dentist “and keep them coming back on a regular basis, it’s been proven to keep them healthier,” Preble said.

Likely customers Older Americans make up a large share of the market for discount dental plans. About 40 percent of enrollees in the plans are between 56 and 75, according to the Consumer Health Alliance, an industry group. In part, that’s because Medicare does not cover dental health. Older adults can purchase supplemental dental coverage or access care through privately run Medicare Advantage plans, but many don’t, due to the extra expense. Finally, discount plans can provide a cheaper option for those who can’t afford monthly premiums of employer-based insurance.

How costs, coverage compare Most discount plans range from $200 to $400 in fees for a family, offering potential

savings for those on a tight budget. In comparison, annual fees for a typical family dental insurance plan in 2017 were nearly $600, according to industry statistics, not including copays and coinsurance. But it’s important to remember discount plans merely give access to savings on exams, fillings and other procedures. Discount plan enrollees can wind up paying considerably more out-of-pocket than they would with dental insurance. Discount plans can also make sense for patients who have maxed out their insurance benefits. Many employer-sponsored plans cap annual care at $1,500 per person. High-cost procedures like root canals, crowns or dental implants can sometimes exceed that

limit. Enrolling in a discount plan could be a way to save on those uncovered expenses. Plus, there’s no limit on the number of procedures you can get in a year with a discount plan. Some insurance plans impose waiting periods after enrollment, or annual limits on how often patients can get expensive procedures. “If you need something done right away and it’s a major procedure, you’re going to get that discount immediately [with a discount plan],” said Evelyn Ireland, executive director of the National Association of Dental Plans. Finally, most insurance doesn’t cover cosmetic dentistry, such as teeth whitening or bonding. In many cases, discount plans can be applied to those. —AP

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Volunteers honored for lifetime of service The Neal Potter Path of Achievement Award is presented each year to two residents of Montgomery County, Md., 60 and above whose accomplishments, enthusiasm and lifelong commitment to volunteer service make them outstanding role models for people of all ages. The award was named to honor the lifetime of achievement of former Montgomery County Executive and Councilmember Neal Potter. The presentation of the awards will take

place Monday, April 29, at 6:30 p.m. at Imagination Stage in Bethesda, Md. For more information, or to request free tickets, visit montgomeryserves.org/montgomery-serves-awards-2019. Profiles of this year’s winners follow.

Karen Bashir When Karen Bashir was in high school in the 1960s, three teenagers died in a car accident on prom night. For years later, her hometown of Wallingford, Conn., host-

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ed alcohol-free after-prom parties in a local has volunteered at the Muslim Communibowling alley. ty Center in Silver Spring for 25 years, Bashir, now 72, never forgot her lost helping coordinate its English language tuclassmates or her town’s activism. So in toring program. 1992, when her two children were old “I have a soft spot in my heart for anyenough to attend the prom in one learning a different lanRockville, Md., she helped guage,” she said. “I look forform a nonprofit that works ward to my visits,” she said, to keep kids safe by offering noting that her Afghan stupost-dance entertainment in dents, with their impeccable a bowling alley, church hall hospitality, insist on serving or their high-school cafeteher tea and pistachios. ria. Bashir began her career “Before you knew it, as a public school teacher in 12,000 kids were coming to New Jersey and Colorado. our after prom,” said Bashir, She met her husband in colKaren Bashir a former teacher and nurse lege at the University of Colwho also volunteers at several area med- orado in Boulder. She went on to the Uniical clinics and nonprofits. versity of Maryland, where she earned a For Bashir’s work with the “Post Prom” master’s in political science. group, as well as decades of other volunDuring her 22 years at the National Inteer service throughout Montgomery stitutes of Health, Bashir picked up a nursCounty, a panel of judges from the Coun- ing degree at night and a second master’s ty’s Commission on Aging chose her as degree in nursing informatics. She missed one of two winners of the 2019 Neal Potter that graduation in 2010, though, because it Path of Achievement Award. was the same day her son graduated from Working with refugees is a special pas- medical school. “I didn’t go to my graduasion for Bashir, whose husband, Dr. Jawaid tion because I wanted to go to his,” she Bashir, emigrated from Pakistan decades said. ago. She is a board member for Social WelWith her nursing degree, Bashir still fare Activities, U.S., which helps Pakistani See AWARD WINNERS, page 13 refugees find jobs and colleges, and she

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Award winners

ment of Agriculture in the Office of Civil Rights in 2011 when she suffered a stroke From page 12 that left her paralyzed on her right side and volunteers at health fairs for the underin- led to her retirement from the government. She spent a year working to regain her sured. She also finds time to serve on the Maryland Board for the Protection and strength and the ability to speak, which Advocacy for Persons with Mental Illness, she still struggles with sometimes. Even the Montgomery County Alcohol and now, her walking remains impaired and Other Drug Abuse Advisory Council, and she cannot write. Yet she decided to dedicate her newthe Alumni Board of Governors at Montfound free time to giving back to the comgomery College. “I don’t need a lot of munity. sleep,” she laughed. In 2013, Frazier collaborated with TakoWhen she looks back on her life, Bashir is proudest of the post-prom initiative, she ma Park councilmember Jarrett Smith to said. “You never know how many lives launch Lunch and Learn — a free summer you’re saving. But the police tell us, and camp that provides low-income children with breakfast and lunch, and tutors them we take their word for it.” —Margaret Foster in math and reading. That summer, Frazier ran Lunch and Learn out of the community room at Essex Jackie Frazier The second winner of this year’s Path of House for 30 children in first through 12th Achievement Award is Jacquette “Jackie” grades. The camp now serves 200 children. Frazier, 61, of Takoma Park, “My dream was for [the Md. camp program] to go eventuIn 1997, she moved to Takoally back into the schools,” ma Park’s Essex House, an afFrazier said. That dream will fordable housing community, come true this summer, and raised her daughter there. when the program will be ofBut she’s also been highly fered for the first time in partinvolved in serving the comnership with Montgomery munity, whether delivering County Public Schools. turkeys during the holiday Campers receive instrucseason or planning programs tion in reading and math as for resident seniors. Jackie Frazier well as lessons on nutrition “I’ve always been involved in what’s going on in my community,” said and civic duties. They’re also taught how Frazier. “I just like doing things for people.” to swim, which Frazier, a native CalifornFrazier was working at the U.S. Depart- ian, considers a life skill.

“It takes six months of planning for six weeks of camp,” she said. When she is not busy with her responsibilities as camp director of Lunch and Learn, Frazier is an active member of several community organizations. She sits on the boards of the Village of Takoma Park, which helps the community’s older residents age safely in place, and What’s My Bias, a nonprofit helping immigrants and people of color access community resources. She serves on a committee for racial equality and coordinates monthly food distribution to seniors and people with disabilities living at Essex House. She

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also runs Takoma Park’s annual service program on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. For her commitment to the community, Frazier received the 2015 Azalea Award for “Neighborhood Volunteer of the Year” from the Takoma Foundation and is a three-time winner of the President’s Volunteer Service Award. “I started out volunteering while I was working, and then [after retirement] I was able to give back more,” she said. “I wanted to also let people who have disabilities know that they can do as much as anybody else.” —PJ Feinstein

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Active listening benefits all generations There was a poster hanging in my questions regarding your tale? If so, then eighth-grade health classroom that I can you are among the many who appreciate still visualize. It read in a active listening. brightly colored font, “‘Listen’ and ‘silent’ are spelled with Five stages of listening the same letters.” This communication techThat poster echoed the mesnique is composed of five sage that we have been taught stages: receiving a message, from an early age but often igunderstanding it, evaluating nore: that merely hearing, or it, remembering it and rethe act of perceiving sound by sponding to it. the ear, doesn’t cut it. This last stage of respondOnly by actually listening, ing is of particular imporor concentrating on another’s GENERATIONS tance: by providing feedback words and internalizing their TOGETHER or asking relevant questions, meaning, can we partake in an By Alexis Bentz the listener reveals that they have been paying attention to effective conversation and show respect to our peers — and this goes the speaker, sending the underlying message that they care. Knowing that somefor individuals of any age. Can you recall a time that you shared a one else cares feels good. Teenagers and older adults may both personal story with a friend and felt a sense of validation as they hung on your experience a lack of respect from others every word and eagerly asked follow-up during their particular stage of life. So

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both age groups can feel as if they are not being heard. Many people erroneously assume that members of these generations are unable to make their own decisions. As a result, teens and older adults both may find their opinions ignored or disregarded by others. On the flip side, teens may choose not to listen to others, especially to their parents, as a way to declare independence or assert power. Older adults, too, crave their own independence, and after years of being an authority figure, may be hesitant to listen to the younger folks who are now trying to tell them what is best. So, whatever one’s age, it helps to try to be an effective listener — even if you may not agree with the views of the person speaking.

Become a better listener How can we become better listeners? First off, when having a conversation, be sure to make eye contact with the speaker. Next, keep an open mind. If you jump to conclusions about what the speaker is saying, it may compromise your effectiveness as an unbiased listener. Try not to be a “sentence-grabber,” one who finishes people’s sentences. It’s important to let the speaker finish their thoughts and not assume a specific conclusion to their sentence — that’s talking, not listening. To maintain focus on what the person is saying, try to picture the information

being communicated, and remember key words and phrases. This will enable you to take more from the conversation and follow up with relevant questions. However, don’t take this advice too far and spend the duration of your companion’s story planning what to say next. The speaker may have responded to the question you were planning to ask even as you were thinking about it! A few final tips include: trying to put yourself in the speaker’s shoes, nodding to indicate that you are actively processing what they are saying, avoiding interruptions and mirroring. This last tip refers to replicating on your own face the emotions the speaker is conveying. For example, you may appear stressed as the person with whom you are talking expresses anxiety about an upcoming deadline or project. For an intergenerational outing: You and your younger buddy can work together to improve your listening IQ and encourage others to actively listen as well. A great way to practice this is to make listening into a game: one of you can tell a story, and the other must see how much detail they can remember. By working to develop your listening abilities, you will likely find that people find you more trustworthy and loyal. After all, the best type of person to confide in is one who you know will listen. Alexis Bentz is an 11th grade student at Thomas Wootton High School in Rockville, Md.

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Make overnight oatmeal with grandkids If you think oatmeal only comes in a packet, think again. They know about oatmeal in Ireland and Scotland, where whole-grain, steel-cut oats are popular. Yes, these slightly chewy oats take longer to cook than old-fashioned rolled oats (and way longer than instant oats in a packet), but the results are so much better. To shorten the usual half-hour cooking time, start the process at night and then finish up in the morning. This recipe is great to make with grandkids or for houseguests.

Overnight oatmeal with raisins and brown sugar Servings: 4 Prep Time: 10 minutes, plus overnight resting time Cook Time: 15 minutes Ingredients: 3 cups plus 1 cup water, measured separately 1 cup steel-cut oats 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup raisins

3 tablespoons packed brown sugar 1 tablespoon unsalted butter 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon In large saucepan, bring 3 cups water to boil over high heat. Turn off heat and slide saucepan to cool burner. Stir in oats and salt. Cover saucepan with lid and let sit overnight. In morning, stir remaining 1 cup water into saucepan with oats and bring to boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to medium and cook, stirring occasionally, until mixture is creamy and oats are tender but chewy, 4 to 6 minutes. Turn off heat and slide saucepan to cool burner. Stir in raisins, sugar, butter and cinnamon. Cover and let sit for 5 minutes. Serve. Nutrition information per serving: 270 calories; 48 calories from fat; 5 g. fat (2 g. saturated; 0 g. trans fats); 8 mg. cholesterol; 154 mg. sodium; 53 g. carbohydrate; 5 g. fiber; 25 g. sugar; 7 g. protein.

Variations to try Also try these fun flavor combinations: â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Banana and brown sugar oatmeal: Use 2 chopped ripe bananas instead of

BEACON BITS

Apr. 11+

STARTING THE CONVERSATION Learn how to talk to your loved ones and caregivers about your

end-of-life care at a two-part workshop, hosted by the Coalition to Improve Advanced Care on Thursday, April 11, from 4 to 5 p.m. Get assistance filling out your advance directive on Thursday, April 18, from 4 to 5 p.m. Both free events take place at Columbia Pike Branch Library, 816 South Walter Reed Dr., Arlington, VA. For more information or to register, call (703) 228-5993 or visit bit.ly/ColumbiaPikeLibrary411.

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raisins. Leave out cinnamon. â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Blueberry and almond oatmeal: Use 1/2 cup blueberries instead of raisins. Use 2 tablespoons almond butter instead of butter and cinnamon. Add 1/2 cup sliced almonds to oatmeal along with blueberries. â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Toasted coconut oatmeal: Use 1 cup

canned coconut milk instead of water. Use 1/2 cup toasted unsweetened flaked coconut instead of raisins. Leave out butter and cinnamon. For more recipes, cooking tips and ingredient and product reviews, visit americastestkitchen.com. â&#x20AC;&#x201D;AP

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Health Studies Page

A P R I L 2 0 1 9 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

THE PLACE TO LOOK FOR INFORMATION ON AREA CLINICAL TRIALS

Pneumonia vaccine study may save lives By Margaret Foster Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve all heard tragic stories about the loss of loved ones to pneumonia or complications of pneumonia. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s especially deadly for older adults. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are not yet winning the battle against pneumonia,â&#x20AC;? according to the American Thoracic Society, which notes

that pneumonia was one of the most expensive conditions in inpatient hospitalizations, costing nearly $9.5 billion in 2013. There is a vaccine to help prevent pneumonia, but only about 70 percent of people over age 65 have received it so far, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

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A new study hopes to change that. Meridian Clinical Research in Rockville, Md., is evaluating the safety and effectiveness of a pneumococcal vaccine in older adults. Sponsored by Pfizer, the doubleblind study is currently recruiting about 200 D.C.-area adults over 60 years of age. The pneumonia vaccine, delivered in several shots, has already been approved by the FDA, but Meridian is conducting this arm of the study to determine the optimum sequence of the shots. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This study is to help determine the best effective method of protection against the streptococcus pneumonia, in patients age 60 and older,â&#x20AC;? said Kelly McDonald, director of East Coast recruitment for

Meridian Clinical Research, which is based in Omaha, Neb. Patients can qualify for the D.C.-area arm of the study only if theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve never received the pneumonia vaccine. The study requires three visits to an office in Rockville, and a follow-up phone call. Participants will receive $75 per visit and reimbursement for their travel expenses. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also a public-health benefit to the study. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We hope to be able to get everybody vaccinated for pneumonia,â&#x20AC;? McDonald said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We must stay one step ahead and find the best methods to counteract these diseases.â&#x20AC;? To volunteer for the Pneumococcal Vaccine Study, call (912) 623-2240.

BEACON BITS

May 6

FREE ACTIVE AGING EXPO Explore, learn and have fun at the City of Gaithersburgâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Active

Aging Expo, taking place at the Activity Center at Bohrer Park on Monday, May 6, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. This free event features educational talks, health screenings, fitness demonstrations, resource information and more. The expo is hosted by the City of Gaithersburg and sponsored by Asbury Methodist Village. For more information, visit gaithersburgmd.gov or call (301) 258-6380.

Apr. 8

MEDICARE 101 Get the basics of Medicare coverage and choices from Medicare counselors from Alexandriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Division of Aging and Adult Services.

This free event takes place on Monday, April 8, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library, 4701 Seminary Rd., Alexandria, Va. For more information or to register, call (703) 745-5999 or email VICAP@alexandriava.gov.

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WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — A P R I L 2 0 1 9

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Fitness & Health

Annual memory checks often forgotten By Lauran Neergaard Few older people get their thinking and memory abilities regularly tested during check-ups, according to a new report from the Alzheimer’s Association. Medicare pays for an annual “wellness visit” that is supposed to include what’s called a cognitive assessment — a brief check for some early warning signs of dementia, so people who need a more thorough exam can get one. But doctors aren’t required to conduct a specific test, and there’s little data on how often they perform these cognitive snapshots. About half of older adults say they’ve ever discussed thinking or memory with a healthcare provider, and less than a third say they’ve ever been assessed for possible cognitive problems, according to a recently released Alzheimer’s Association survey. Even fewer, 16 percent, said they get regular cognitive assessments — a stark contrast to the blood pressure and cholesterol checks that just about everyone gets routinely. Just 1 in 3 knew cognition is supposed to be part of the annual wellness visit. Even though many older adults say they’ve noticed changes in their mental abilities, “the majority of the time seniors are waiting for the physician to bring it up,” said

Alzheimer’s Association chief program officer Joanne Pike.

Early detection can help About 50 million people worldwide have dementia, and Alzheimer’s is the most common type, affecting 5.8 million people in the U.S. The disease takes root in the brain decades before symptoms appear. There is no cure, and today’s treatments only ease symptoms. They don’t prevent the disease from gradually worsening. Some slowing of memory is a normal part of aging, like temporarily misplacing your keys. But more significant declines in memory, thinking skills or behavior can require medical care. It might be due to something treatable like sleep apnea, depression or a side effect of medication. But even if someone is developing dementia, knowing early allows people time to plan for their future care — and to participate in research studies, Pike said. The doctor looks for any signs of impairment as the check-up gets under way, asks the patient directly about any changes over time, and asks any family members who came along for the visit if they have concerns. Then the doctor sometimes, not always, administers a test, such as asking the pa-

tient to remember a short list of words. Some written tests excel at spotting subtle problems, but they’re too simplistic to rule out trouble. Nor does a poor score mean there’s a problem, just that more testing is required.

Why aren’t more tested? Medical guidelines don’t say everyone needs a formal assessment with those memory quizzes, cautioned Dr. Sumi Sexton of Georgetown University’s School of Medicine and editor of the journal American Family Physician, who wasn’t involved with the survey. In fact, you might be getting assessed and not realize it, she said. Maybe a conversa-

tion with the doctor shows that you’re pretty active and doing well. Or maybe the doctor spots that you’re taking medications that can impede cognition — and changes your prescription, waiting to see if that solves the problem. “We [doctors] are all attuned to memory issues,” said Sexton, who tends to screen frequently. But she wasn’t surprised at the report’s low screening numbers, because a discussion about cognitive impairment takes time in an already crammed check-up. And it’s hard for patients to bring up, said Jim Gulley, 69, who was diagnosed with early-stage Alzheimer’s in 2015. He marked See MEMORY CHECKS, page 18

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A P R I L 2 0 1 9 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Many treatments for thumb arthritis pain Dear Mayo Clinic: What can be done about thumb arthritis besides having surgery to relieve the pain? A: There are a number of therapies to consider before turning to surgery to treat thumb arthritis. Although these therapies may not always provide long-term relief, for most people with thumb arthritis, they can effectively lessen symptoms, and surgery may not be necessary. Surgery for arthritis of the thumb is usually a treatment of last resort. The thumb is designed to give you a wide range of motion, enabling you to pinch, grip and grasp objects. It provides approximately 40 percent of hand function.

In a normal thumb basilar joint, the cartilage that covers the ends of the bones acts as a cushion and allows the bones to glide smoothly against each other. With thumb arthritis, the cartilage that covers the ends of the bones deteriorates, and its smooth surface roughens. The bones then rub against each other, resulting in friction and more joint damage. The most common symptom of thumb arthritis is pain at the base of your thumb during daily activities, such as opening a jar, turning a key or pulling a zipper. You may notice other symptoms, too, such as stiffness, tenderness or swelling at the base of your thumb. You may not have as much range of motion or strength in

your thumb as usual. About 8 to 12 percent of the population is affected by arthritis of the thumb joint, making it the second-most common part of the hand to have arthritis. In fact, thumb arthritis affects more than half of women 70 and older. The joints at the end of the fingers are the most common spot for hand arthritis. Simple at-home treatments may be all that are needed for some people to reduce symptoms of thumb arthritis successfully. Anti-inflammatory medication, such as ibuprofen, is often effective. A gel form of a similar anti-inflammatory medication (the prescription diclofenac) is available for those whose stomachs do not tolerate anti-inflammatories well. Other medications, including acetaminophen and prescription pain relievers, also may help. In addition to medications, tools that make it easier for you to grip with your thumb can be useful. Jar openers, key turners and large zipper pulls designed for people with limited hand strength are available. Many people with thumb arthritis also find it helpful to replace traditional round door handles with lever handles. Your healthcare provider or a hand therapist may have other suggestions about techniques and equipment that can make it easier to use your thumb. If those steps aren’t enough, talk to your healthcare provider about getting a splint

that can support your joint and limit your thumb and wrist movement. Doing so helps rest the thumb joint and lessens pain. Some people only need to wear a splint at night. But, depending on your situation, your healthcare provider may recommend prolonged use of a splint, especially when you do activities that cause thumb pain. If the above treatments are not enough, an injection of medication into the thumb joint, such as a corticosteroid injection, may reduce inflammation and relieve pain temporarily. If none of these approaches work, surgery may be a reasonable option, especially if symptoms are making it hard for you to do your day-to-day activities. There are various treatments, including arthroscopy (keyhole surgery); removal of the arthritic bone at the base of the thumb, possibly with a tendon graft; joint fusion; and even joint replacement (in select cases). It is important to thoroughly try all nonoperative treatments before surgery. In most people, they can relieve symptoms of thumb arthritis successfully. — Sanjeev Kakar, M.D., Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. E-mail a question to MayoClinicQ&A@ mayo.edu. For more information, visit www. mayoclinic.org. © 2019 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. All rights reserved. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Memory checks

Penfield, N.Y. His father had had dementia, and he knew “the stigma is not dead.” But after Gulley told his church group about his diagnosis, he was inundated with help — and with others asking how to know if something’s wrong. He now counsels people to talk to their doctors early. —AP

From page 17 “memory issues” on a check-up questionnaire but then crossed it out — only to have his longtime doctor insist on a discussion. “I was definitely afraid,” said Gulley, of

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Say you saw it in the Beacon | Fitness & Health

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — A P R I L 2 0 1 9

Choosing the yogurt that’s best for you By Harvard Health Letters There are so many kinds of yogurt in the dairy aisle these days, it can be tough to know which to choose. That’s a great problem to have. Many of the yogurts that have hit store shelves in the past decade offer nutritional benefits including higher protein levels, more calcium and additional choices for people who want to enjoy the benefits of yogurt, but with less added sugar — or who want to find dairy alternatives that offer similar benefits. However, it’s wise to know what you’re buying before facing that aisle, as many types of yogurt contain more sugar than you’d like to eat for breakfast or a quick snack. Here’s a guide to help you identify the main varieties, discover some popular options, and learn what to look for when shopping for the healthiest choice.

tose, calcium, milk sugars and minerals, but results in a higher protein content. One cup of Greek yogurt can have up to 20 grams of protein; traditional yogurt has 11 to 13 grams.

For the most protein-rich choice, try Icelandic yogurt This is the thickest of all varieties: 1 cup of this strained yogurt is typically made with 4 cups of milk. Because of that, Icelandic yogurt often has the highest protein content. It also has the longest incubation process, so it’s the tartest of all varieties and has the lowest amount of milk sugar. If creamy is your thing, choose Australian yogurt. Creamy and unstrained, this yogurt is commonly made with whole milk, so it will be higher in fat than the traditional variety. Other than that, it has a similar nutritional profile.

When choosing, check for these three things: Probiotics: Look for the Live & Active Cultures seal on the label of dairy and nondairy yogurts. It means that your choice contains the highest amount of probiotics. No seal? L. bulgaricus and S. thermophilus should be listed as ingredients. Sugars: Plain yogurt with 9 grams or less of natural sugar per serving is the healthiest choice. For flavored yogurts, opt for ones with less than 15 grams of

Try traditional yogurt The yogurt you grew up eating is unstrained (still contains whey), which means it’s thinner than Greek and Icelandic styles. Nutrition-wise, it has more calcium and natural milk sugar than other varieties.

Get more protein with Greek yogurt This thick, strained yogurt now makes up more than a third of all yogurt sales in the United States. Straining removes some lac-

Don’t do dairy? You have options Yogurt can be made from nondairy milks, such as coconut, soy and almond. For the same health benefits as regular yogurt, look for calcium on the Nutrition Facts label. A serving should provide at least 15 percent of your daily calcium dose. And also make sure the yogurt has been cultured: You should see probiotics listed on the label.

ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE AND DEMENTIA

CARE CONSULTATIONS One-on-one assistance from Diane Vance, programs and services manager of the Alzheimer’s Association National Capital Area Chapter

2 nd Wednesday of each month Complimentary 50-minute sessions Brooke Grove Rehabilitation and Nursing Center 18131 Slade School Road • Sandy Spring, MD 20860

This service is designed to help caregivers — as well as those who are newly diagnosed — cope with the impact of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, enabling participants to better understand the disease, manage care and make informed decisions regarding services and treatments. Consultant Diane Vance can assess current needs, help develop a care plan, address behavioral and communication concerns, share coping techniques, discuss care options, provide resources and more. Care consultations may be scheduled at any time during the dementia journey. To schedule your appointment, contact Toni Davis at 301-388-7209 or tdavis@bgf.org.

sugar. Anything higher than 17 grams has the same sugar content as two fun-size Snickers bars! Fat: Full-fat yogurts can be a creamier, healthy choice; just figure their higher saturated fat and calories into your overall daily saturated fat intake, which should be less than 7 percent of your total daily calories. © 2019 Meredith Corporation, Harvard Health Letters. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

A P R I L 2 0 1 9 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

VOLUME XXXI, ISSUE 4

April 2019

A newsletter for D.C. Seniors

DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE By Laura Newland, Director D.C. Department of Aging and Community Living Last month, Mayor Muriel Bowser released her fiscal year 2020 Proposed Budget and Financial Plan, continuing her commitment to ensuring every Washingtonian has a fair shot of living a good life here in the District. This year, Mayor Bowser challenged us to think bigger and bolder about what we can accomplish as a city if we are not afraid to fail. I want to thank all of you who participated in the Mayor’s Budget Engagement Forums and shared your vision about what we could and should accomplish together. The Mayor has been committed to ensuring our government agencies work for our residents. What this means for our seniors, adults with disabilities and caregivers is that there’s continuity of services under one roof. So, in FY20 the Adult Protective Services (APS) Division, which currently operates within the Department of Human Services, will become a part of the Department of Aging and Community Living. For our residents, this transition will be seamless: While the address will change, the core mission of APS — to investigate alleged cases of abuse, neglect and exploitation of adults — will remain the same. In fact, this change will create more streamlined access to services and supports for older residents and vulnerable adults — in times of crises, and for the long-term. This will also enable DACL to better identify the trends around exploitation, abuse and neglect, and allow the District to move quickly and effectively to protect our residents. We’re excited to welcome the dedicated APS staff to our department, and I know you are looking forward to seeing all that we can accomplish together. In addition, the Mayor continues to make historic investments in affordable housing. In her budget, Mayor Bowser has made it clear that supporting our seniors in their homes and in their communities is a top priority for her administration. In FY20, the Mayor has increased the Safe at Home budget by $2 million for a total annual investment of over $6 million, ensuring more and more seniors and adults with disabilities can age well in the safety of their own homes and communities. In addition, a $5.2 million investment will help more seniors remain in their homes by expanding the Keep Housing Affordable Tax Credit for eligible District seniors. We heard from seniors that you don’t want to wait for big projects like the new senior wellness site in Ward 8. So, the Mayor has expedited, by two years, construction plans for the new Citywide Senior Wellness Center. With this capital investment of $11.4 million, we are delivering more wellness in more places, and we’ll be working with the community on plans for the new site. We are excited for the many changes that are happening within the agency and the historic investments in making sure D.C. continues to be an agefriendly city for all. Over the first two weeks of April, I’ll be holding a series of budget town halls to discuss more in-depth all the investments made to ensure our seniors, adults with disabilities and caregivers have the services and supports to age well in D.C. I hope you will join me for one, or all, of these town halls. This will be your opportunity to share with me your ideas, and what you envision for the Department as we continue to work together to make D.C. the best city in the world to age! See DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE, page 21

Celebrating 100 years in D.C.

In late April, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser will honor John Tatum, right, at the 33rd Annual Salute to D.C. Centenarians. Bowser has said the city “remains committed to ensuring that Washington, D.C. continues to be an age-friendly city where residents of every age – whether they’re 100 days old or 100 years old – can live and thrive.”

John Tatum, who recently turned 100 years of age, continues to be a hero and role model in his community. Mr. Tatum was born in 1919 to a family of nine in Washington, D.C. After serving in the U.S. Navy, fighting in WWII and building his own legacy as a Washingtonian, Mr. Tatum continues to break age barriers and inspire the community with his wisdom, wit and courage.

For decades, Mr. Tatum has been known to be one of the most athletic within his community. But when Mr. Tatum isn’t training for senior swim meets at the Takoma Park Recreation Center or coaching youth athletics, you can find him advocating for his community, Woodridge, Northeast. By his side, you’ll find Curtis Brown, See CENTENARIANS, page 21

Ms. Senior D.C. The deadline for applications for the next Ms. Senior D.C. Pageant is April 30, 2019. District women age 60 and older interested in becoming a contestant should visit dcoa.dc.gov/page/ms-senior-dc-pageant to apply, or call 202-724-5626 for more information.

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — A P R I L 2 0 1 9

Director’s message From page 20

Tuesday, April 2, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Prince Hall Center for the Performing Arts 1000 U Street NW Thursday, April 4, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Petworth Library Community Room 4200 Kansas Avenue NW Monday, April 8, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Saint Luke’s Catholic Church 4925 East Capitol Street SE Wednesday, April 10, 12:45 p.m. – 1:45 p.m. Asian and Pacific Islander Senior Service Center,

Spotlight on Aging

417 G Place NW (Mandarin interpretation will be provided) Friday, April 12, 12:45 p.m. – 1:45 p.m. Vida Senior Center 1842 Calvert Street NW (Spanish interpretation will be provided) To find out more about these town halls, reach out to us at 202-724-5626. Also, on Thursday, April 25, I’ll be representing DACL at our annual Budget Oversight Hearing. I hope you will join us and share your thoughts on DACL’s programs and our proposed FY20 budget. If you’re interested in testifying, call 202-724-8198. I can’t wait to see you out in the community! Aging is Living!

From page 20

a longtime family friend of the Tatum family. What sparked Brown’s initial communication with Mr. Tatum was the loss of his own biological father when he was a child. After spending more time with Mr. Tatum, Brown eventually began to look at Mr. Tatum as his own father. “I lost my father when I was nine years old, and I searched for a long time. I lived without a father forever, and when I met this man, he became a father figure,” explained Brown. Brown grew up as a close friend with Mr. Tatum’s son, Kevin. After Kevin passed recently from cancer, Brown began to spend more and more time with Mr. Tatum. This sparked Brown to gather with Mr. Tatum every Tuesday, bringing forth food, family and fellowship. It’s no surprise that Brown has such a strong regard for Mr. Tatum, as he is known to be a legend within his community. Mr. Tatum has been awarded by the

DMV AIA – Athletes in Action for being a historian and caregiver to the community, and has participated for many years in the DPR Golden Olympics and the National Senior Games. He has hundreds of medals that he has received in both the local and national games. With only two of his six biological children remaining, Mr. Tatum cherishes each moment he spends with his children, along with his grands and greatgrandchildren. Known to be the “Superman” of his community, Mr. Tatum’s legacy is sure to remain forever. “I call him Superman because for a gentleman his age, he still takes great care of himself. He cuts his own grass, swims, drives; he even takes care of his daughter,” explained Brown. “He loves to be involved.” Mr. Tatum is one of many centenarians who will be honored by Mayor Muriel Bowser at the end of April. According to the Social Security Administration, there are nearly 300 D.C. residents who are 100 years of age or older.

Tuesday, April 2 • 7 – 8:30 p.m. The Department of Aging and Community Living will provide a presentation on DACL Resources and Services, Palisades Recreation Center 5200 Sherier Pl. NW — Ward 3

Tuesday, April 2 • 7 – 8:30 p.m. The Office of Tax and Revenue Workshop Glover Park Citizens Association Stoddert Elementary School 4001 Calvert Street, NW — Ward 3 Contact: Karen Pataky 202-337-3917

The Senior Zone Senior Spa Day Kenilworth-Parkside Recreation Center 4321 Ord Street, NE — Ward 7

Wednesday, April 10 9 a.m. – noon Department of Aging and Community Living and partners graciously support the WTU Retirees Chapter 6th Annual Health & Resource Fair Washington Center for Aging Services, Crystal Room 2601 18th Street, NE — Ward 5

Friday, April 12 • 1 – 3:30 p.m. Department of Aging and Community Living and partners graciously support the Friendship Terrace Residents Community Health & Resource Fair 4201 Butterworth Place, NW — Ward 4 Contact: Jade Turner 202-244-7400

Saturday, April 13 8:30 a.m. – noon Department of Aging and Community Living and partners graciously support the Community Forum for the National Capitol Chapter of the Society of Financial Service Professionals Achieving Financial Success, Retirement Planning, Aging in Place and Eldercare Metropolitan AME Church 1518 M Street, NW — Ward 2 Contact: Carolyn Rogers 301-383- 8282

Wednesday, April 17 • 1 – 3 p.m.

Spotlight On Aging is published by the Information Office of the D.C. Department of Aging and Community Living for D.C. senior residents. Advertising contained in the Beacon is not endorsed by the D.C. Department of Aging and Community Living or by the publisher.

500 K St. N.E., Washington, D.C. 20002 202-724-5626 www.dcoa.dc.gov

Director Laura Newland

Editor Darlene Nowlin

Photographer Selma Dillard

The D.C. Department of Aging and Community Living does not discriminate against anyone based on actual or perceived: race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, familial status, family responsibilities, matriculation, political affiliation, disability, source of income, and place of residence or business. Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination which is prohibited by the Act. In addition, harassment based on any of the above protected categories is prohibited by the Act. Discrimination in violation of the Act will not be tolerated. Violators will be subjected to disciplinary action.

The D.C. Department of Aging and Community Living is in partnership with the District of Columbia Recycling Program.

Get Involved

Wednesday, April 3 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Centenarians

Say you saw it in the Beacon

Department of Aging and Community Living and partners graciously support the Michigan Park Christian Church Senior Group’s

Community Health & Resource Fair 1800 Taylor Street, NE — Ward 5 Contact: Dellie Reed 202-288-8622

Thursday, April 18 10:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Department of Aging and Community Living and partners graciously support the Chevy Chase Community Center’s 5th Annual Health & Resource Fair 5601 Connecticut Avenue, NW — Ward 3 Contact: Caryl King 202-282-2204

April 18 • 10 a.m. – noon Train to Become a DACL Ambassador 500 K Street, NE Call 202-727-0374 or contact sadia.ferguson@dc.gov

Friday, April 19 • 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Department of Aging and Community Living and partners graciously support the Therapeutic Recreation Center Community Health & Resource Fair 3030 G Street, SE — Ward 7 Contact: Tonya K. Cousins-Johnson 202-299-3781

Saturday, April 20 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Earth’s Natural Force Connections Earth Day Celebration 2019 Emery Heights Community Center 5701 Georgia Avenue, NW — Ward 4 Contact: Allen Burris 202-320-8021

Friday, April 26 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Department of Aging and Community Living and partners graciously support the Jubilee Housing & Jubilee Senior Club Health & Resource Fair Festival Center 1640 Columbia Road, NW — Ward 1 Contact: Constance Bryant & James Parker 202-559-2329

Saturday, April 2 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Department of Aging and Community Living and partners graciously support True Gospel Tabernacle Baptist Church’s 46th Anniversary Celebration Health & Resource Fair 4201 Wheeler Road, SE — Ward 8 Contact: Louise Harris 202-567- 8100

Senior Peer Support Program Help an isolated senior in your community through the gift of companionship! The Senior Peer Support Program (SPSP) is a volunteer home visiting program being piloted through Mary’s Center in partnership with the D.C. Department of Aging and Community Living. The goal of the program is to improve emotional well-being of older adults experiencing loneliness through social connection with a peer. Volunteers will provide weekly onehour home visits to an assigned peer

for eight weeks. Volunteers will be trained through Mary’s Center on how to give personalized, undivided attention and support to make their peer feel seen and understood. Both volunteers and participants must be 60+ and residents of D.C. Mary’s Center will cover transportation and onboarding costs (background check, TB test). For questions or a volunteer application, contact Austyn Holleman: aholleman@maryscenter.org, 202-779-3006.

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A P R I L 2 0 1 9 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Building a more cohesive community By Carol Sorgen Remember television’s “Cheers,” the bar where everybody knew your name? What if you lived in an entire community where everyone knew your name? That’s one of the principles behind the growing interest in a concept known as cohousing. The concept of cohousing was first pioneered in Denmark in the early 70s as a multigenerational community that would foster close ties among families with children who would support and connect with each other throughout the phases of life. In 1988, architects Kathryn McCamant and Charles Durrett introduced the term to North America in a book they published after visiting several such communities. In Cohousing: A Contemporary Approach

to Housing Ourselves, the husband-and-wife team defined cohousing as an “intentional community” in which residents help organize and participate in the planning and design of a housing development, and are responsible as a group for final decisions. That heightened cooperation is the strength of senior cohousing communities. Later, the couple wrote a handbook on senior cohousing, showing how the concept could become a solution to the challenges of isolation among older adults. “The senior cohousing concept re-establishes many of the advantages of traditional villages within the context of 21st-century life,” Durrett wrote in The Senior Cohousing Handbook. In cohousing communities in general,

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From D.C. to greener acres A few years ago, architect Mike Binder and his wife, Martha Wetherholt, wanted to move from Washington, D.C., to a small university town. More importantly, though, they

wanted to live in harmony with nature — and other people. Fortunately, Binder and Wetherholt found a small group of people who were planning a 19-acre, mostly 55+ cohousing community in Shepherdstown, W. Va., with 30 units designed for aging in place. Together they all planned the development, called Shepherd Village, which will be completed in July. “We all have our hand in creating the community,” said Binder, who is the architect of record for the site’s private homes. “Most of the people here are retired, but everybody is still active.” Binder moved in last February, and by this summer, all of his neighbors will be moved in, sharing meals in the common See COHOUSING, page B-4

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for example, private homes are generally strategically situated around a common area so that neighbors have more opportunities for social interaction. While each family generally lives independently in their own home, a “common house” is typically used for meals that are shared on a regular basis. However, residents in cohousing communities have their own primary incomes, and the community does not generate any income of its own. Furthermore, residents reflect a variety of religious and political beliefs: they’re not like the “communes” of the 1960s.

CELEBRATE SPRING Champagne Brunch Sunday, April 14 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. RSVP Required to 202-905-0708 A group of older adults, including these new neighbors, joined forces to design and build a cohousing community in Shepherdstown, W. Va. With smaller yards and larger common areas, residents plan to age in place as close-knit neighbors.

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Housing Notes By PJ Feinstein

New “resortstyle” apartments available in Gaithersburg, Md. Renovations are expected to be complete mid-summer at Hillside Senior Apartments in Gaithersburg, Md., a resort-style community for active adults ages 62 and older. The property was previously the Hyatt House Hotel. Hillside Senior Apartments intends to bridge the gap “between high-end luxury living and Class-C properties,” said Angie Lombardi, vice president of marketing at the building’s property management company, the Franklin Johnston Group. “We are making sure that people still have a lovely place to live, but aren’t spending their entire monthly income and not having anything left over,” she said. The one- and two-bedroom apartments feature fully-equipped kitchens with granite countertops, spa-inspired bathrooms with walk-in showers, walk-in master closets and nine-foot ceilings. Utilities such as electric and water are included. The community has an outdoor pool and sundeck, a fire pit with lounge seating, gas grills and a laundry center. In the clubhouse, the main gathering space, residents have access to computers and printers, a Keurig coffee bar, a small fitness center, a library and a community room

stocked with games. The clubhouse also hosts a variety of workshops and demonstrations, including monthly birthday celebrations, designed to build relationships between the residents. “We don’t want somebody to live in an apartment complex,” said Lombardi. “We want someone to feel like they’re part of an apartment community so that they know the staff, they know their neighbors.” So far, a quarter of the 140 fully renovated apartments are occupied, and seven percent have been pre-leased. The cost for a onebedroom, one-bathroom apar tment is $1,295/month; two-bedroom, two-bathroom units cost $1,395/month, including utilities. For more information, call (301) 869-0255.

Virginia riverfront property expands offerings Falcons Landing, located along the Potomac River in Loudoun County, Va., is a community for veterans who “have retired from work but not from life.” The independent living community currently features cottages and high-rise apartment buildings. Now, the development is working on a new project: Terrace Home Apartments, two three-story buildings each with underground parking and four large corner units per floor. The units range in size from about 1,600 square feet to nearly 2,200 square feet. The buildings will have social spaces to gather with neighbors, and are ideal for those who enjoy natural lighting, open floor plans, indoor/outdoor living and entertaining family and friends.

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The buildings will be ready for occupancy in early 2021. For more information, call (703) 293-5054.

Erickson Senior Living acquires Marriott’s 34 acres in Bethesda In January, the senior housing company Erickson Living announced it had purchased Marriott’s 775,000-square-foot

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headquarters in suburban Bethesda, Md. After Marriott vacates the property in 2022 for downtown Bethesda, Erickson will develop the 34-acre site as a continuing care retirement community. “As a thriving urban center, this location provides an ideal opportunity to further expand our service offerings in the state of Maryland, as well as Montgomery County,” Erickson Living CEO Alan Butler said in a statement. Erickson owns and operates 20 continuing care retirement communities, including four in Maryland.

Where Friends are Made, Memories are Created, & Joy Abounds This is every day at Potomac Place! Imagine living in one of the largest apartments for seniors in the Woodbridge area. Enjoy relaxing on your patio or balcony or go on an outing. Step into !"#$%&%&'#())*#)(#+%,% #-&#-. %+% /#-&$#/)0122#3&$# a community that feels cozy and close-knit. It’s a place you can call home. Call today.

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Vinson Hall Retirement Community 703-536-4344 6251 Old Dominion Drive McLean, VA 22101 www.vinsonhall.org Celebrate the tradition at Vinson Hall Retirement Community! We're located in McLean, Virginia, near Washington, D.C. and its surrounding suburbs. We are an active, vibrant senior living community, offering independent living, assisted living, nursing care, and memory support residences — all located on 20 acres in a suburban setting. Residents are encouraged to live life “their way.” Visit our website to learn more: www.vinsonhall.org.

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Greenspring Retirement Community 877-575-0231 7410 Spring Village Drive, Springfield, VA 22150 EricksonLiving.com Explore stylish senior living at Greenspring Greenspring is Springfield's most popular retirement community — and for good reason! Few senior living destinations have such a wide variety of apartment home options. The community offers cozy one bedroom floor plans, spacious two bedroom options, and deluxe apartments with special features like sunrooms, dens, and extra storage. Regardless of the home size and style you choose, your Greenspring apartment home includes quality fixtures and finishes, like granite countertops and stainless steel appliances. Our custom interiors team can also help you create your ideal living space with custom window treatments, closets, built-ins, and more. Call 1-877-575-0231 today for your free Greenspring brochure.

ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITY

Victory Housing 301-493-6000 Six Maryland Locations www.victoryhousing.org Assisted living begins with a conversation. For more than thirty years, Victory Housing has been a leader in this discussion. Together we will have an upfront talk about lifestyle at our community including resident needs and wants, resident suite options, and the peace-ofmind that comes from individualized care. We’ll also address financial considerations including our no-surprise pricing. Unlike other providers, we do not charge extra for additional care services—ever. We understand that considering assisted living is an important decision. Discover Victory Housing’s straight-forward approach and our non-profit, award-winning communities. Call or visit us today, let’s talk.

A P R I L 2 0 1 9 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

The agony and ecstasy of living in a Pod By Neale Godfrey [Editor’s note: If cohousing is not for you, or you don’t want to move to W. Va., consider this more individualized option.] I have been writing about a new way of living in retirement: Pods. Why? Because according to Northwestern Mutual’ s 2018 Planning & Progress Study, 21 percent of Americans have nothing saved at all for their golden years, and a third of Americans have less than $5,000. I’m not going to lecture you about the fact that the way you may have planned to live in retirement will not pan out. What I’m doing is offering you a future that could be spent with friends and family while sharing expenses.

that offers a safe place, like peas in a pod — protected, close to others, warm and cozy. It’s pooled skills, pooled resources, with lives as separate and individual as you want to make them. It can be a close-knit group of friends, but not necessarily. You can even join, or form, a Pod as a couple. Pod is also the term used to describe a group of dolphins — creatures that have the whole ocean to roam and new horizons to explore every day, while at the same time knowing that they are not alone. There’s a built-in support group that dolphins have for security and companionship. Dolphins work together to gather food, and they team up for protection. Like us, they’re social. It’s not so much a structure as a con-

What’s a Pod? A Pod is a shared-living arrangement

Cohousing From page B-2 house several times a week. “People are really engaged with the process and want to create a great community,” he said. “It’s about having an active life as you get older and being able to support each other when we need help.” With one-quarter of older Americans falling into the category of “elder orphans” (meaning they have no spouse, significant other, children or other support system nearby), experts are paying increasing attention to how we will take care of ourselves during the period between healthy aging and the end of life. Senior cohousing may be part of the solution. Currently, there are only 13 senior cohousing communities in the country, but a dozen more are being formed, according to the Cohousing Association of the United States.

Neighbors with strong bonds Several intergenerational cohousing communities have taken root in Maryland, including Liberty Village in Frederick and Eastern Village Cohousing in Silver Spring. In Washington, D.C., Takoma Village Cohousing was established two decades ago and is open to all ages. Ann Zabaldo is one of the original residents of Takoma Village Cohousing, which welcomed its first residents in 2000. Zabaldo, who is active in several cohousing organizations, is enthusiastic about her community. “Where else could I live where everybody knows my name and I know everybody else, even down to their extended family and their pets?” she said. “We have very strong social connections and bonds. What a way to live!” With Takoma Village and Shepherd Village as models, a group in Baltimore has been working for the past five years to establish a similar community specifically for older adults. “More and more people are excited about

See POD LIVING, page B-5

the prospect,” said Mike Dennis, speaking for Cohousing of Greater Baltimore (CGB), which currently has 20 members who are part of the organizational process. “We started [the group] to develop a community focused on the needs of older people and to enhance our social connections and support base as we age,” said Dennis. The group’s current plan is to remain somewhat flexible in making room for younger families or individuals, he added. According to Dennis, the biggest challenge in getting the project off the ground is finding a suitable site within Baltimore City or County. “In this area, there isn’t much available land,” he said. The group is looking for about five acres in a safe location for the construction of individual homes (or a multi-unit dwelling, depending on space available) and common facilities. While the search for the right-sized property and a developer continues, Dennis’ group continues to meet and pursue its mission to create an alternative to traditional aging options. They hope they’ll be able to establish such a community within the next two or three years. The goal is to provide affordable housing for those with limited financial resources, with three or four styles and sizes of homes that will meet a variety of needs. Cohousing communities can be as small as eight to 10 households or as large as 60 or more individual dwellings. CGB is hoping to limit its size to 25 to 30 households. Their higher goal, of course, is to create a true home for its residents. As Durrett put it in Senior Cohousing, the older adults he has observed in senior cohousing communities have chosen “to build their own community where they live among people with whom they share a common bond of generation, circumstance and outlook. And they have a great time doing it.” For more information on cohousing in the Mid-Atlantic region, visit midatlanticcohousing.org.

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WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — A P R I L 2 0 1 9

Pod living From page B-4 cept. A Pod can be whatever you make it, if you remember those two goals: financial security and companionship. For me the prospect of living in a Pod gives me a feeling of excitement when looking forward to my later years, instead of experiencing that overwhelming dread of isolation and loneliness.

The ecstasy Take a serious look at your assets and your expenses. How much more savings would you need to have to be able to spend two weeks, or even a month, every year in that little place on the Gulf Coast, painting landscapes? Or taking the grandkids to Orlando to visit Disney World? Or knowing that, as you sit at home on your porch watching a sunset, or in a cozy room watching Netflix, your bills are paid and you have enough left over for at least a couple of items in a new fall wardrobe? If the difference is one that you could make up if some of your core expenses were shared by living in a Pod, then hello, Mickey!

This is an area where a Pod can be a surprising help. For one thing, it will focus your thoughts on the space you’ll be moving to, and how much you’ll need to downsize to fit into it. For another, it’s amazing how helpful a good friend can be in reassuring you that you really can live without that stoneware dinner set or those commemorative coins that were supposed to increase in value but never did. And sometimes they can reassure you that you don’t have to jettison something: “Say, I love to read real books and those will look wonderful in our new common room.” Downsizing is one of the biggest issues confronting empty nesters moving on to the next phase of their lives. We’ve spent the first two-thirds of our lives accumulating. Accumulating furniture. Accumulating art. Accumulating books and records and CDs and knickknacks and Hummel figurines and cars and boats and cottages by the lake. I know that there can be sentimental value to these things, but the act of accu-

The agony Now for the grueling part: Downsizing. If you decide that Pod living is for you, it’s time to get that dumpster. And frankly, if you think you should be downsizing, then you should be. Yes, it’s hard to let go of the roomful of stuffed animals and Katy Perry posters that your daughter is not planning to use in her new apartment. Or disposing of the books you’ve been buying and putting on shelves for the last 40 years, and my, they do take up a lot of space now, don’t they?

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This article was written by, and presents the views of, contributing adviser Neale Godfrey, president and CEO of Children’s Financial Network Inc., not the Kiplinger editorial staff. You can check adviser records with the SEC or with FINRA. © 2019 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

mulation must stop. Remember, to everything, there is a season. A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together. And as we move toward retirement, which may well be as much as one-third of your total lifespan, it’s time to cast away stones; they are weighing you down. Pod life may be something to think about.

Changes & Challenges in Today’s News & Media Landscape

Many different types There are many designs for a Pod. You can share a house. You can get adjoining houses in a retirement community and pool certain essentials. You can do the same thing in your old neighborhood, with the people you grew up with and know well. You can even make a multigenerational family Pod. I didn’t invent this concept; we have all watched “The Golden Girls.” I’m just suggesting that you think about this if you don’t feel confident you’ve saved enough for retirement, or if you want a retirement that’s more luxurious, fun and fulfilling than you could otherwise afford. All Pod life asks for is the ability to compromise (and a lot of good humor). In return, it can give you the life that you want.

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KENSINGTON PARK SENIOR LIVING SPEAKER SERIES: Thursdays, April 18, May 16 & June 20 from 2:00-4:30pm Held at Woman’s Club of Chevy Chase, 7931 Connecticut Ave, Chevy Chase, MD 20815 Call Conor at (301) 946-7700 for details • RSVP to KPEvents@kensingtonsl.com The Changing Business of Journalism with Bob Levey

Media Ethics with Steve Roberts

Thurs, April 18

RSVP by May 10

How Social Media Impacts the News with Julia Ziegler

Thurs, May 16

Thurs, June 20 RSVP by June 14

RSVP by April 12

Bob Levey—a highly regarded, retired journalist from The Washington Post— brings a sharp eye, quick wit and keen insight to a hearty discussion about the challenges of reporting and journalism amidst today’s fast-paced information culture.

Steve Roberts—a journalist for more than 50 years—explores the ethics of media, a highly relevant topic in light of today’s rapid, expansive and unmanaged delivery of news by way of multiple communication channels.

Julia Ziegler—News Director of WTOP.com, the leading online source of Washington’s top stories—discusses the effect of social media on the accuracy, integrity, quality and quantity of local, national and world news.

(301) 946-7700 | 3620 Littledale Road | Kensington, MD 20895 | www.KensingtonParkSeniorLiving.com I N D E P E N D E N T

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A P R I L 2 0 1 9 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Numerous reasons not to retire to Florida By Bob Niedt As retirement approaches, you have Florida on your mind. After all, it’s the quintessential post-working world existence. But is it right for you? Before you take the plunge, try before you buy. Spend some serious leisure time in the Sunshine State. Skip the hotel and instead rent an Airbnb in a residential area you’re interested in. Introduce yourself to the neighbors, shop and dine locally, and observe the rhythms of life. Stay a few days — or, better, a few weeks — and you might not like what you see as the realities of Florida living sink in. To that end, we took a serious look at the downsides of retiring in Florida. Here’s some of what we found.

Crawling with boomers Do you really want to join the graying crowd that made Woodstock a thing? Face it, your riff to retire in Florida isn’t solely yours. Look at the numbers and consider what you’ll be facing in the coming years. Florida’s estimated population of nearly 21 million includes some 4.2 million residents 65 and older. That’s up from 3.3 million seniors in the 2010 U.S. Census.

And the upcoming 2020 census is expected to count 4.5 million Floridians who are 65plus. By 2030, the number of seniors in the Sunshine State is expected to crack 6 million. That’s a lot of tricked-out golf carts. Other popular retirement states in the Southeast — Georgia, Alabama, the Carolinas — all skew much younger than Florida.

Crawling with critters, too It’s common knowledge that Florida has a lot of alligators. There are also invasive Burmese pythons, green iguanas and herpes-carrying wild monkeys. Then there are the rats: on the beach, in palm trees and on your roof. Molly Elliott, who lives in Fort Myers Beach, said beach rats were a big adjustment for her, as was the expense of keeping them out of her house. She pays $300 a year for rodent control. Other transplanted northerners agree the pests and exotic creatures are an acquired taste. “It’s not unusual to see snakes and alligators, especially on golf courses,” said Trisha Torrey, a transplant who now lives in central Florida. “Neighbors have found poisonous snakes on their lanais and patios three times in the two years we’ve lived here.”

Not so tax-friendly

Swimming pools are expensive

A big whoop to many Florida transplants is there’s no state income tax, including no income tax on Social Security benefits, pensions and other retirement income. Score one for the Sunshine State. But don’t confuse no state income tax with no state taxes at all. The combined state and local sales tax averages 7.05% in Florida, according to the Tax Foundation. That’s higher than the combined rates retirees from states such as Michigan, Massachusetts and New Jersey are accustomed to paying. Fees can add up, too. Florida charges a steep $225 fee to register an out-of-state vehicle, for example, and a driver’s license costs $48 for eight years (versus $25 for 12 years in Arizona, a competing retirement hotspot).

Naturally, you’ll want a swimming pool to beat the Florida heat. Just be prepared to pay a pretty penny to keep your pool up and running year-round. It costs $177 a week, on average, to maintain a standard 14-by-28-foot pool. You’ll also spend hundreds — even thousands — of dollars on routine repairs to torn liners and leaky plumbing. And expect to shell out anywhere from $100 to $600 a month for energy to run a pool heater.

Not such great weather Let’s put this right up front: Florida earned two spots on the list of the top 10 sweatiest cities in the U.S. Both Tampa and Miami made the cut. But farther north, while summers are hot, expect winter temps to fall below freezing in parts of northern Florida. And in places like Pensacola, Tallahassee and Jacksonville, it even snows. After years of being cooped up in an office, you may be looking forward to being outdoors for hours on end to soak up Florida’s eternal sunshine. But many savvy retirees to Florida confine outdoor activities — from rounds of golf to leisurely walks — to early mornings when the mercury and humidity levels are still tolerable. On top of the heat and humidity, there are also biting flies, mosquito swarms and columns of fire ants.

The toll on your skin Many boomers who grew up in the ‘60s and ‘70s slathered on baby oil to enhance the tan. SPF? Who knew? But now we know too much sun causes premature wrinkling, uneven skin coloring and worse. Prolonged sun exposure and frequent sunburns can also increase your risk of skin cancer. Sun worshippers are urged to avoid the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. (when the rays are most damaging) and use broadspectrum sunscreens. And when you are on the beach or poolside, sit under an umbrella.

Hurricanes are a costly menace The Atlantic hurricane season is a long one. It runs from June 1 to Nov. 30 — fully half the year — peaking from August through October. Florida is in the crosshairs of many of those deadly and destructive Atlantic hurricanes. In October, Hurricane Michael, one of the most powerful storms to hit the U.S. in 50 years, killed at least 20 people and devastated towns in Florida’s Panhandle. Retirees who move to Florida are often See NOT FLORIDA, page B-8

Retirement as

Unique as You!

Every senior living community is different. It's important to find one as unique as you. If you're hoping to find happy neighbors, exciting events, delicious food, and a caring staff, then look no further. Call today to schedule your personal visit and discover your new home!

Ask about two-bedroom apartments from 558 to 595 square feet! 2030 Westmoreland St. | Falls Church 703-531-0781 | chesterbrookres.org A Caring Assisted Living Retirement Community Coordinated Services Management, Inc.—Professional Management of Retirement Communities since 1981.

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Housing Options

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — A P R I L 2 0 1 9

Move managers can help you downsize By Mary Kane When his beloved 90-year-old cousin Sidney needed to move from her New Jersey home into a nearby independent living community last spring, Paul Mesard faced a dilemma. Mesard, 62, lives in Denver, and it seemed nearly impossible to take off enough time to pack up a house that Sidney had lived in for 35 years and relocate her. But Mesard came across a solution: Hire a senior move manager — a professional who specializes in helping older adults move from their longtime homes and resettle elsewhere. A move manager and her team guided Sidney through every room, closet and drawer, quizzing her gently on what to keep or give away. After the move, they unpacked and set up her new apartment. The entire process took just two days. “They were really focused, so it wasn’t a trip down memory lane,” Mesard said. “You’re paying them by the hour, so it’s just about business.”

Helpful in many ways Those moving for the first time in decades can be overwhelmed by the task of emptying out an attic or basement full of boxes. And many of us have physical conditions, or recent knee or hip replacements, that can make moving difficult. Some of us also face a major living transition, often into a smaller apartment in a care facility or to an adult child’s house in another part of the country. “Sometimes you have to move because it’s not safe, or affordable, or feasible for you to stay where you are,” said Tracy Greene Mintz, a social worker and longterm-care consultant in Redondo Beach, Calif. “But that doesn’t mean it’s not hard and it’s not sad.” Senior move managers, some of whom may have social work backgrounds or special training, can address these emotional minefields. Some serve as neutral third parties divvying up family possessions. Others acknowledge the pain of saying goodbye to treasured items. Clients always have final say, but some managers find ways to help ease the transition. One manager painstakingly photographed and recreated the display of a collection of

glass figure miniatures for a cabinet in a client’s new apartment, said Susan Devaney, president of the Mavins Group, a move-management company in Westfield, N.J.

What to expect Move managers typically charge hourly rates between $55 and $100, depending on the type of service. Managers pack boxes or organize an entire home, tagging items for family, charity or the new residence, and keeping out-of-town adult children in the loop by video chatting as they work. A typical move, including planning and consultation, takes three to five weeks, Devaney said. Managers can work on short notice, too. Managers also review the floor plan for a new apartment and help decide where the old furniture will fit. And they can recommend vetted moving companies, and firms that might buy unwanted items. The cost to hire a manager to move from a house to a two-bedroom independent living apartment may range from $2,500 to $5,000, not including moving company costs, Devaney said. You can find an accredited move manager through the National Association of Senior Move Managers, the industry’s professional association.

A comforting service Vera Lasser, 79, decided to hire a senior move manager when she and her husband, Norman, 84, needed help to move from their New Jersey home of nearly 49 years to a continuing-care community in Massachusetts. “The house was an absolute mess,” she said. “We had collected so many papers and so much junk over the years.” Devaney’s firm encouraged them to let go of some things and to make a memory box to save meaningful items. The couple wanted to keep a large baker’s rack they loved, but the move managers helped them realize that it wouldn’t fit in their new, smaller space. Having help as she sorted and made decisions, Vera said, was comforting during a stressful time. © 2019 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

BEACON BITS

Apr. 4+

NEW COMEDY

Best Medicine Rep Theater Company closes its 2018-2019 season with Play Date, a fast-moving comedy about parents who misbehave during their children’s play dates, running Thursday, April 4 through Sunday, May 5 at Best Medicine Rep, Lakeforest Mall, 701 Russell Ave., Suite H205, Gaithersburg, Md. Performances are Fridays and Saturdays at 7 p.m., with Saturday and Sunday matinees at 2:30 p.m. $25 general admission, $23 seniors. For more information, call (636) 299-2635, email BestMedicineRep@gmail.com or visit BestMedicineRep.org.

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INDEPENDENT/ASSISTED/MEMORY CARE

Waltonwood Ashburn 571-982-6318 44141 Russell Branch Parkway Ashburn, VA 20147 www.Waltonwood.com Social opportunities and luxury amenities await you at Waltonwood Ashburn, a brand new community from Singh Development with independent living, assisted living and memory care communities. Our broad range of amenities includes a beauty salon, saltwater therapy pool, fitness and wellness center, movie theatre, cafe, convenience store and more. Enjoy chef prepared meals in our elegant dining room, plus personal help services and courtesy transportation. You will love our beautifully appointed and spacious studio, 1- and 2-bedroom apartment homes. Independent, assisted living and memory care are available now. Visit us for tours 7 days a week and take advantage of brand new, luxury senior living. Ask about current incentives!

INDEPENDENT LIVING COMMUNITY

Sommerset Retirement 703-450-6411 22355 Providence Village Dr. Sterling, VA 20164 www.Sommersetretirement.com At Sommerset Retirement Community, located in the heart of Sterling, Virginia, you’ll experience exceptional independent living at its best, with a comfortable, fulfilling, secure and active lifestyle. Sommerset’s unique amenities include restaurant style dining, housekeeping, 24-hour front desk personnel and private transportation. Enjoy the convenience of being just minutes from medical services, shopping, banking and entertainment. Sommerset has been voted by the readers of Virginia Living Magazine as one of the best retirement communities in Northern Virginia! Call us or visit our website to request more information or to schedule your tour and complimentary lunch.

INDEPENDENT LIVING COMMUNITY

Riderwood Retirement Community 877-575-0231 3140 Gracefield Road Beltsville, MD 20904 EricksonLiving.com Explore stylish senior living at Riderwood Riderwood is Silver Spring's most popular retirement community — and for good reason! Few senior living destinations have such a wide variety of apartment home options. The community offers cozy one bedroom floor plans, spacious two bedroom options, and deluxe apartments with special features like sunrooms, dens, and extra storage. Regardless of the home size and style you choose, your Riderwood apartment home includes quality fixtures and finishes, like granite countertops and stainless steel appliances. Our custom interiors team can also help you create your ideal living space with custom window treatments, closets, built-ins, and more. Call 1-877-575-0231 today for your free Riderwood brochure.

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A P R I L 2 0 1 9 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

D.C. expands intergenerational housing By Margaret Foster On a typical day in the first “grandfamily” apartment building in Washington, D.C., grandmothers are cooking comfort food, staffers are helping haul furniture, and children of different ages are fingerpainting or taking a college readiness class. “It’s always all hands on deck. We help each other here,” said Jamarl Clark, program manager at Plaza West. The new apartment building at 4th and K Streets NW has set aside 50 units designated for

grandfamilies — older adults who care for their younger relatives full-time. Intergenerational housing communities of several types have opened in the D.C. area in recent years. Together, they demonstrate the strength that comes from older adults living close to young people. Plaza West, which opened in September 2018, has 173 traditional apartments and a separate entrance for its 50 grandfamilies. It’s one of only nine such grandfamily housing concepts in the country.

“We’re hoping this could be a model — as we’ve grown from other models — that can work in other neighborhoods,” said Becky Lang Staffieri, spokesperson for Mission First Housing Group, which built Plaza West. The unique community was the brainchild of Bible Way Church founder Bishop Smallwood Williams, who built five affordable housing buildings near the current site of Plaza West. Williams approached landowner Mission First with his idea. “He had this vision years ago during the

80s crack epidemic about intergenerational housing and how it would work,” Staffieri said. “We said, ‘How can we make this happen?’” To help grandfamilies thrive, Mission First hired Clark, a full-time, on-site program manager. Clark coordinates the building’s programs, such as a partnership with Howard University School of Social Work, in which students meet with Plaza West’s kids.

Not Florida

homeowners insurance covers wind and rain, but not flooding.

See INTERGENERATIONAL, page B-10

From page B-6

NOW LEASING!

shocked to discover that deductibles for hurricane insurance often range from 2 to 5 percent of the policy coverage, rather than the fixed dollar amount, say $500, they were accustomed to up north. And that’s if you can line up any insurance at all. “Homeowners insurance in general can be tough to get when you live on a barrier island,” said Elliott, the northern transplant who now lives in Fort Myers Beach on the Gulf Coast. “No one wanted to insure us, so we had to use the default state insurer.” Oh, and if you buy a home in a designated flood zone, your mortgage company will insist you buy flood insurance. Typical

!"#$%&'()*#%+$,%-.'/)0"12.+3 4.56)7)8)9)&($#""-2 Are you a senior 50 years & older, raising a grandchild(ren) 17 years & under, and looking for housing in a vibrant downtown location? !"#$%#&'%"()!$"*+&%,-"./)0,%0#/1,%"!&%#)'% "2"/+"*+&%/#%13&%3&"!1%)4%516%7&!#)#%8!/"#9+&% '/13%)#,/1&%!&,/$&#1%,&!2/.&,%4)!%,&#/)!,%"#$% :)0136 Apply now! Call (202) 969-0103 or email Leasing@PlazaWestDC.com. 1035 4th Street NW, Washington, DC 20001

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You’ll miss your family Florida newcomers tend to brace themselves for a lot of visitors from the north. After all, there’s the irresistible lure of sunshine, beaches, theme parks and a free place to stay, right? But that may wear off after initial visits to Florida. “Loved ones are often far away (ours are in New York and Pennsylvania),” said Torrey, the central Florida transplant. “Phone calls and video calls help out, but we don’t spend as much time together as we would if we were still living up north.” © 2019 The Kiplinger Washington Editors. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Housing Options

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — A P R I L 2 0 1 9

Dear Friends,

At our core, Seabury provides housing, social services, transportation and community dining. But we also recognize the many contributions that older adults make to their communities through their volunteer and business leadership. We are honoring one such leader, Virginia Ali, co-founder of the Washington DC institution Ben’s Chili Bowl at our Leadership in Aging celebration on May 15.

with dignity and respect. I envision a community where our time and talents are valued no matter our age.

As we enter our 95th year of service to the greater Please join me in this journey. Find Washington comout more about Seabury at seaburyremunity, I am taksources.org and I hope to see you on ing time to reflect May 15. on Seabury’s history and our future path. Seabury was founded in 1924 to Sincerely, provide a home for seven older adults with limited income. Since that humble beginning we have grown to reach more As we look towards the future, I enDeborah M. Royster than 17,000 older adults each year. vision a community in which all can age Chief Executive Officer

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ASSISTED LIVING & MEMORY CARE

Brooke Grove Retirement Village 301-260-2320 18100 Slade School Road Sandy Spring, MD 20860 www.bfg.org This community hums with warm-hearted camaraderie and a zest for life shared by residents and staff alike. Experience all that makes assisted living at Brooke Grove extraordinary. Cozy, homelike dwellings with easy access to beautiful courtyards and walking paths. Caring staff trained in using memory support techniques, building independence and lifting self-esteem. Innovative LIFE® Enrichment Programming with meaningful activities and off-site adventures. Visit us to see why Brooke Grove Retirement Village is one of the most sought-after continuing care retirement communities in the state. Living here is simply different … because what surrounds you really matters.

INDEPENDENT LIVING COMMUNITY

Emerson House 301-779-6196 5999 Emerson Street Bladensburg, MD 20710 Our community features bright onebedroom apartments in a nine-story elevator building for today’s active and independent seniors who are 62 or older. Emerson House is subsidized for low- to moderate-income households. Activities are yours to choose from: gardening, Bingo, Wii bowling league, movie night, parties, bus trips, exercise classes, learning to line dance — it’s all waiting for you and more! Emerson House offers an in-house Resident Service Coordinator to assist with finding helpful resources. Please call today for an appointment to tour our community or request an application; 301-779-6196 Monday-Friday from 8:30 to 5:00.

INDEPENDENT LIVING COMMUNITY

Covenant Village Senior Apartments 301-540-1162 18889 Waring Station Road Germantown, MD 20874 www.qpmgmt.com • Spacious 1 and 2 bedroom plans with washer/dryer in each apt. • Shuttle bus for shopping and local trips • On-site fitness, game, and craft rooms, movie theatre, library, beauty salon, and courtyard garden plots. It's about our residents, said Management staff, Debra and Trisha. They always ensure that they have interesting and exciting things going on. Some of the fun includes: Garden Party Cookouts, Trips to Washington, DC to see the Cherry Blossoms, the Franciscan Monastery, and the National Zoo, Black Hills Pontoon Boat Ride, Low-Impact Fitness Classes, Resident Birthday Celebrations, Craft Classes and Potlucks. Also, many guest speakers are invited to speak to our residents on topics that are relevant to them.

A P R I L 2 0 1 9 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Intergenerational From page B-8 But there’s plenty of programming for older adults, too, such as Connect DC — free monthly technology workshops for older adults arranged by the D.C. Department of Aging and Community Living. “We haven’t forced community; we’ve allowed it to happen,” Clark said. Because all the children in the units are being raised by older adults rather than parents, they can create strong friendships. “It’s the norm now for them; they’re not the only ones living with their grandparents. They’re all in the same boat.”

Adopted grandparents at Genesis In springtime, an urban garden on Georgia Avenue in Washington, D.C., comes alive. On a typical afternoon, you’ll see children and gray-haired adults there together, digging, planting and pulling weeds outside Genesis — a 27-unit affordable apartment building established in 2015 for a unique population: young mothers who have aged out of the foster care system and need support to raise their children, and older adults. It’s a symbiotic lifestyle: the older adults are expected to help out the younger families for a set number of hours a week, and vice versa. “The relationship between the children and the seniors is really special in this building. You definitely see the trust that has been built over the years,” said Elin Southbury, deputy director of Mi Casa, Inc., the developer that built Genesis through a partnership with Generations of Hope, D.C. Child and Family Services Agency and the D.C. Department of Aging and Community Living. Genesis offers plenty of places for kids and grandparent-figures to mingle. There’s a 2,000-square-foot common room with a piano and other instruments, a multi-purpose room used for yoga and exercise or art class, and even a library stocked with everything from Seuss to Steinbeck.

“You will often see children run to hug [the older residents], and it’s a lovely ongoing relationship. And their mothers are very trusting of the elders in their community and trust them with their children,” Southbury said.

Young at heart in the new Shaw In the nearby gentrified neighborhood of Shaw, also in Northwest D.C., a slightly different housing model juxtaposes older adults with younger neighbors — though not in the same building. The Hodge on 7th is a 90-unit apartment building for adults 55 and older. Developer Bozzuto Group was able to make the building affordable for low-income residents with the aid of federal and city tax credits. IOne resident, Bernard Johnson, has lived in the Shaw neighborhood for more than a dozen years. As the area has changed and millennials have moved in, Shaw hasn’t pushed out older people like Johnson, thanks to the Hodge. Surrounded by hipster restaurants and bars, the area is a perfect fit for active retirees like Johnson, who’s typically first in line to try out a new eatery. “I don’t feel awkward with younger people at all. I participate in the same things they do,” he said. A few years ago, Johnson was looking for a new apartment. He spotted a newspaper ad about a building for older adults who made no more than 60 percent of the area’s median income. He secured a spot on the Hodge wait list and moved in when it opened in 2014. “I like my neighbors,” Johnson said. “I interact with folks here. You’re close to everything, and I like to walk. I’m very much a walker, so what else can I ask for?” The Hodge is located across the street from the Kennedy Recreation Center, where grandparents can watch visiting grandkids play. More senior housing projects are planned in D.C., including 200 units for veterans and older adults at the former Walter Reed National Military Medical Center.

INDEPENDENT LIVING COMMUNITY

Falcons Landing 703-404-5100 20522 Falcons Landing Circle Potomac Falls, VA 20165 www.falconslanding.org Common Bonds and Extraordinary Living is what you find when you move to Falcons Landing! Nestled near the Potomac River in scenic Loudoun County, Falcons Landing is a vibrant hub for residents who have retired from work, but not from life! Falcons Landing is embarking on an exciting new project with the addition of The Terrace Home Apartments, 24 new units that fuse the best aspects of apartment and cottage living. Residents will enjoy generous square footage in private corner units with social spaces to gather with neighbors. The Terrace Homes provide a fresh and exciting new take on senior living and are ideal for those that enjoy natural lighting, open floor plans, indoor/outdoor living and entertaining family and friends.

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Housing Options

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — A P R I L 2 0 1 9

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FREE HOUSING AND OTHER INFORMATION For free information from advertisers in this special section, check off those that interest you and mail this entire page to the Beacon. Please do not request info if you are not interested. All replies have an equal chance to win. To be eligible for Wolf Trap tickets, your reply must arrive by May 6, 2019.

HOUSING COMMUNITIES:

❑ Springvale Terrace . . . . . .B-9 & B-19 ❑ Victory Housing . . . . . . . .B-4 & B-15

WASHINGTON, DC

VIRGINIA

❑ Chevy Chase House . . . . .B-2 & B-17 ❑ Friendship Terrace . . . . . .B-9 & B-17 ❑ Plaza West . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B-8

❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑

MARYLAND ❑ Brooke Grove Retirement Village . . . . . . . . .B-10, B-16 & B-17 ❑ Covenant Village . . . . . .B-10 & B-18 ❑ Emerson House . . . . . . .B-10 & B-18 ❑ Gardens of Traville, The . . . . . . . . .B-2 ❑ Homecrest House . . . . . . .B-3 & B-16 ❑ Homewood at Frederick . . . . . . .B-14 ❑ Kensington Park . . . . . . . .B-5 & B-16 ❑ Landing of Silver Spring, The . . . .B-3 ❑ Riderwood . . . . . . . . . . . .B-7 & B-13

Ashby Ponds . . . . . . . . .B-13 & B-19 Chesterbrook Residences . .B-6 & B-19 Culpepper Garden . . . . . . . . . . . .B-14 Falcons Landing . . . . . . .B-10 & B-20 Greenspring . . . . . . . . . . .B-4 & B-13 Gum Springs Glen . . . . . . . . . . .B-18 Herndon Harbor House . . . . . . . .B-18 Lockwood House . . . . . . . . . . . .B-18 Morris Glen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B-18 Overture Fair Ridge . . . . . . . . . . . .B-8 Potomac Place . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B-3 Sommerset Retirement . . .B-7 & B-15 Sylvestry, The . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B-14

❑ Vinson Hall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B-4 ❑ Waltonwood . . . . . . . . . . . .B-7 & B-12 ❑ Wingler House . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B-18

HOME CARE SERVICES: ❑ Attenda Home Care . . . . . . . . . . .B-5 ❑ Best Senior Care . . . . . .B-13 & B-15 ❑ Debra Levey Eldercare . . . . . . . . .B-6

MISCELLANEOUS ❑ Seabury Resources . . . . . . .B-8 & B-9 ❑ Silkway Movers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B-6

SKILLED NURSING & REHABILITATION ❑ Brooke Grove . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B-16

Check the boxes you’re interested in and return this entire coupon to: The Beacon, P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915-2227. You may also include the free info coupon on page 5. One entry per household please. Name __________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Address ____________________________________________________E-mail_______________________________________________ City _______________________________________________________ State ______________________ Zip ____________________ Phone (day) _______________________________________________ (eve) ________________________________________________ Please provide your telephone number and e-mail address so we may contact you promptly if you win the drawing.

WB419

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A P R I L 2 0 1 9 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Should you move abroad for healthcare? By Liz Weston The notion that healthcare outside the U.S. could be good as well as cheap is a foreign one to many Americans. Expat Kathleen Peddicord frequently hears from such skeptics as founder of Live and Invest Overseas, a site for people curious about living abroad. Actual expats like her, however, tell of good-quality care at a fraction of the U.S. price. Treatment for a motorbike accident in Panama cost her $20. Emergency dental surgery that might cost $10,000 or more in the U.S. was $4,500 in Paris. In many countries, medications that would require a prescription in the States are available directly from licensed pharmacies at low prices, thanks to govern-

ment subsidies or regulation. “The healthcare in a lot of places around the world is very good, as good as in the United States,” said Peddicord, who currently divides her time between Paris and Panama. “Some places, it is better.”

Among reasons to move Low-cost, quality healthcare usually isn’t the main reason people move abroad, said expat and Mexico resident Don Murray, who writes for rival site International Living. But reduced medical expenses are part of the lower living costs that prompt many Americans to relocate, he said. About nine million Americans who aren’t in the military live outside the U.S., according to State Department estimates.

That’s increased considerably from its 1999 estimate of three to six million. The number could rise in coming years as millions more Americans barrel toward retirement without enough income to maintain their standard of living at home. Healthcare is a particular concern for Americans who want to retire before age 65, when Medicare kicks in. Currently, early retirees can buy coverage through the Affordable Care Act, but it’s not always truly affordable and its future is uncertain. Some who would otherwise retire plan to keep working, rather than risk being uninsured. But a move abroad could be an option for those intrepid enough to try it. Cheaper healthcare also may appeal to gig economy workers who aren’t tied to stateside jobs. Freelance science writer Erica Rex, for example, recently wrote an opinion column for The New York Times about moving to the United Kingdom and then France after her 2009 cancer diagnosis. “Moving to Europe was a choice weighed against other, grimmer options for healthcare, which included the strong possibility of being bankrupted by cancer treatment and winding up at the mercy of New York State’s welfare system,” she wrote.

Quality abroad varies

Life is Good at Waltonwood! Waltonwood Ashburn offers a carefree lifestyle in a community full of amenities with endless possibilities. • A fresh, fun and interactive dining experience • Life Enrichment programs allowing for opportunities of continued learning and special interests • Forever Fit wellness programs encouraging resident independence • Housekeeping and maintenance teams providing a truly worry free lifestyle

Call and schedule a tour today 571-982-6318

A SHBURN Independent Living, Assisted Living and Memory Care 44141 Russell Branch Parkway, Ashburn, VA 20147

Waltonwood.com | SinghJobs.com

Not all expat havens have great healthcare systems. Belize, for example, encourages immigration by exempting retirees from most income taxes. But many expats there cross the border to Mexico for healthcare, Peddicord said. France, on the other hand, is known for its excellent healthcare system. International Living and Live and Invest Overseas give the country top marks, along with Mexico, Ecuador and Malaysia. International Living praises Thailand

and Costa Rica as well, while Live and Invest Overseas said Portugal, Italy and Malta have admirable healthcare. With any country, quality can vary, especially in sparsely populated areas. Murray and his wife, Diane, left their first retirement destination, a small town in Ecuador, after encountering broken equipment and few doctors. They’re much happier with the care near their Yucatan Peninsula home, where next-day appointments are the norm, and doctors are typically trained in the U.S. or Europe, he said. “It’s like in the U.S. — if you live in Possum Belly, Alabama, and they don’t have a hospital and the nearest one is an hour and a half away, the healthcare isn’t going to be the same” as in a major city, Murray said.

Options for coverage Expats may be able to qualify for a country’s public healthcare system if they become residents. Otherwise, there’s typically a private system in which people can pay out of pocket and get reimbursed if they have private health insurance. Peddicord and her husband, Lief Simon, who are in their 50s, have an international health insurance policy that covers them whether they’re traveling or at home in France or Panama. The annual cost is about $3,000 for both of them, she said. Murray, 69, said he and his wife pay about $80 each month for Mexico’s public health system, but use private doctors and pay out of pocket for most care (including $8 for a recent hospital visit to treat an eye infection). “My personal budget no longer contains a line for healthcare expenses,” Murray said. “They are so inconsequential there is no need.” —AP/Nerdwallet

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — A P R I L 2 0 1 9

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Housing Options

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What makes your place feel like home? By Kim Cook What makes a house or an apartment a home? For some of us, home is a walk-up apartment that we share with a roommate or two. For others, it might be a center-hall Colonial on a leafy suburban street, or a modern glass box overlooking the sea. The variations are endless. The only real universal feature is a roof over your head. Everything else that distinguishes a home from mere shelter is different for each of us. And evolving technology and lifestyles are changing what we want our homes to be. “With so many entertainment and smart technology options at our fingertips, we find homeowners are spending more time at home. People are focusing on how they truly use a space to reflect how they live, versus what the room is ‘supposed to be,’’’ said Kerrie Kelly, an interior design expert for the online real-estate marketplace Zillow.

Multi-function rooms For instance, she notes, dining rooms are no longer just a place to eat. “Adults work from this space and kids do homework here, making a single-use room more multi-purpose,’’ Kelly said. “We also see ‘library rooms’ in lieu of formal dining rooms, with more attention to comfortable seating for taking in a vari-

ety of media. And lastly, the laundry room isn’t just for washing clothes any more. Pet-washing stations are popping up more frequently instead of laundry tubs.’’ For city dwellers, Kelly’s noticed an increase in conversions of loft-like work spaces into living spaces. “People are interested in living in an urban environment in order to enjoy culture without getting in the car,’’ she said. “Easily accessible restaurants, entertainment and shopping appeals to all age groups.’’

ple turn what they love to do into a business, then in a way their business becomes home.’’ Dungan worked on a home in Texas where the client wanted a sewing room placed right off the master suite. Other clients are also asking for dedicated spaces such as yoga and art studios. In IKEA’s report, Alison Blunt, co-director of the Centre for Studies of Home at Queen Mary University of London, said there are essentially five things that matter to people when they consider the ideal home: “Com-

fort, security, a sense of autonomy and ownership, and the capacity for privacy. Home at its core goes back to a sense of belonging.’’ A survey last year asked people what it took for them to finally call a dwelling a home. Many responders said it takes a couple of holidays, barbecues, family visits, big sporting events and game nights before they really feel “at home.’’ So, feather the proverbial nest however you like, and have fun while you do it. Then invite somebody over. —AP

Working at home The retailer IKEA surveyed people across the globe for its 2018 “Life at Home’’ report, and found that 1 in 4 respondents said they work more from home than ever before. Nearly 2 in 3 said they’d rather live in a small home in a great location than in a big home in a less ideal spot. Jeffrey Dungan, an international architect, reports that more clients want to use their homes for creative pursuits. “There’s this idea that with the increasing popularity of the Maker movement, and people turning hobbies into successful businesses — whether it’s a side hustle or primary income — the home is more and more becoming a place of business,’’ he said. “Home is the place where you can do what you love unapologetically. And as more peo-

SENIOR LIVING WITH

STYLE

Spring into a vibrant retirement at Ashby Ponds, Greenspring, or Riderwood, the area’s premier continuing care retirement communities. Each community features a variety of fashionable floor plans that are affordable and maintenance-free!

13342537

Call 1-877-575-0231 for your free brochure.

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A P R I L 2 0 1 9 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Planning ahead can save on move costs By Lauren Schwahn Moving comes with a long, expensive to-do list. The average cost for a local move from a two-bedroom apartment or three-bedroom house ranges from $400 to $1,000, according to HomeAdvisor’s True Cost Guide. While you’re choosing a place to live and deciding what to pack, having a plan for expenses can ensure your budget doesn’t get lost in the shuffle. “It’s very easy to overlook minor details,

because when you’re moving you’re looking at getting your stuff from point A to point B,” said Jessica Nichols, a director at Avail Move Management, a relocation and transportation service in Evansville, Indiana. Preparing for moving costs can help alleviate emotional and financial strain. Consider these less-obvious expenses. 1. Peak surcharges Many moving and truck rental companies raise rates during busy times like summer and weekends. If you have the

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flexibility, relocate in an off-peak period to save money. 2. Packing materials Buying items like boxes, bubble wrap and packing tape can add up. For example, UHaul sells large moving boxes for $1.63 to $1.99 each, depending on how many you buy. Be realistic about the number you need. Or seek free materials from friends or online. Additionally, consider the items you’ll need to safely transport your belongings, including furniture covers, hand trucks and bungee cords. If your movers don’t provide them, or you aren’t hiring professionals, renting or borrowing is more affordable than buying. 3. Excess cargo The more stuff you schlep, the more you’ll pay. Movers usually factor the number and weight of items into the bill. Expect additional fees for valuable or large items like pianos that require extra time, space or labor. Hauling everything yourself? A bigger load can require a larger vehicle or more gas-guzzling trips. To save money, donate or sell what you can before you move. 4. Cleaning You’ll likely need to tidy up your current place, especially if there’s a security deposit at stake. Housecleaning services typically charge

$200 to $300 for a one-time cleaning, according to HomeAdvisor. You’ll save money by doing some or all of the work yourself. 5. Utilities Watch for deposits, taxes and connection and installation fees when setting up utilities at your new address. These could range from $10 to $200 or more. Ask power, Internet and other service providers about charges in advance. 6. Food Food expenses can pop up, too. Think snacks for the road, restocking the refrigerator and pantry, and feeding friends who’ve helped. Shopping wholesale clubs could be a smart strategy to feed a crowd. 7. Lost or damaged items Some belongings might not survive the journey. Depending on what you’re transporting and how far, it may be worth purchasing insurance to repair or replace property. “Nobody wants to think about their items getting broken. Ideally that would never happen, but in the real world that’s something you need to plan for,” said Nichols. Most movers provide basic valuation coverage, which limits their liability to 60 cents per pound. For a 40-pound TV valued at $500, that’s $24. See PLANNING AHEAD, page B-16

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Housing Options

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — A P R I L 2 0 1 9

B-15

Telling your story well can improve care PJ Feinstein When Jay Newton-Small moved her father, who had Alzheimer’s, into a senior living community, she had hesitations about the extensive intake questionnaire she had been asked to fill out. “Who was ever going to read and remember 20 pages of handwritten data points for the more than 100 residents in

that particular community?” she said. Newton-Small, who was a professional writer at the time, also found some of the questions challenging to answer succinctly. “You know, ‘Describe your parents’ fiftyplus year marriage in four lines.’ It’s like writing in haiku,” she said. So Newton-Small turned in a blank questionnaire, and instead used her skills PHOTO COURTESY OF THE NEWTON-SMALL FAMILY

as a trained journalist to write her father’s story as if it were a magazine profile. “There’s an expression in Alzheimer’s, ‘meeting people where they are,’ and I knew he was regressing at that point back to his earlier days,” she said. In order to help his caregivers better understand her dad’s current state of mind, she decided to focus her story on his experiences as a young man and his career as a U.N. diplomat. The one-page, double-sided story was a

hit with the staff. “Two of his caregivers were actually Ethiopian, and they had no idea that he’d lived in Ethiopia for four years early in his career with United Nations,” Newton-Small said. “They became his champions. They would sit for hours and ask him what it’d been like to work with Emperor Haile Selassie and what the emperor had been like. Dad loved it because he remembered See TELL YOUR STORY, page B-16

Jay Newton-Small’s father, Graham, shown here with Jay as a young girl, received better care as an Alzheimer’s patient after she shared his life story with his caregivers. After he died, she founded MemoryWell to enlist professional writers to write biographies of older adults in care facilities.

Let’s Talk Assisted Living

It’s a conversation we’ve been having with seniors and their families for over 30 years. At Victory Housing, you’ll discover our simple and straight-forward approach to assisted living. From all-inclusive rates to individualized care, our award-winning communities offer the ideal setting to call home. Call or visit us today, let’s talk. 489./::;:<=>.?;";0@.A4BB80;<;=:

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INDEPENDENT & PERSONAL CARE COMMUNITIES

B’nai B’rith Homecrest House 301-244-3579

A P R I L 2 0 1 9 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Tell your story From page B-15 Ethiopia from his early 20s pretty well at that point in time, even if he didn’t often remember last week or last month.”

Getting to know you

14508 Homecrest Road Silver Spring, MD 20906 www.homecresthouse.org Homecrest House is a non-profit, affordable, subsidized community neighboring Leisure World. Our community offers 2 senior living options, and residents may qualify for rent & service subsidies based on eligibility. EDWARDS PERSONAL CARE BUILDING offers: onsite 24 hour staff, daily meals, weekly housekeeping & laundry services, assistance with bathing & optional medication administration. HOMECREST INDEPENDENT LIVING offers: dinner meals, full calendar of activities & scheduled trips. Our Computer Lab, Fitness Center, Salon & Convenience Store are just a few of the amenities our residents enjoy. Contact Princetta at 301-244-3579 or marketing@homecresthouse.org for a personalized tour or visit us at www.homecresthouse.org.

INDEPENDENT/ASSISTED LIVING/MEMORY CARE

Kensington Park 301-946-7700 3620 Littledale Road Kensington, MD 20895 www.kensingtonparkseniorliving.com Friendship and fun. Activities and companionship. Family and support. You'll find it all at Kensington Park, a senior living community that features Independent Living, Assisted Living and Memory Care on one beautiful campus. The variety of lifestyle options makes it easy for residents to live the way they want and need in an environment that reflects deep understanding of seniors. Independent Living offers a lively calendar of events, a sophisticated dining experience and cocktail hours. Assisted Living provides enhanced care programs that include a full spectrum of clinical support and end-of-life care. Three levels of Memory Care address challenges unique to each phase of progressive change. Please call us at 301-946-7700.

REHABILITATION

Brooke Grove Retirement Village 301-260-2320 18100 Slade School Road Sandy Spring, MD 20860 www.bfg.org Imagine an extraordinary staff and the best therapies and equipment—in a beautiful environment that rejuvenates and restores. Physical therapy spaces bathed in sunlight. The quiet comfort of a garden walk or relaxing massage. Imagine getting back to the activities that matter to you. Our new, state-of-the-art rehab addition at Brooke Grove Rehabilitation and Nursing Center offers innovative therapy services for seniors, including NeuroGym® Technologies mobility training, the Korebalance system and much more. Visit us to see why Brooke Grove Retirement Village is one of the most sought-after continuing-care retirement communities in the state. Rehab here is simply different… because what surrounds you really matters.

Seeing how writing her father’s life story transformed his care, Newton-Small was inspired to help other family members tell the stories of their aging loved ones. A few years ago, she founded MemoryWell (www.memorywell.com), a company that matches older adults and family members with experienced journalists who can craft personal narratives that “make for great cheat sheets” in senior living communities, giving paid caregivers the tools they need to individually engage with residents. Plus, “knowing that person’s biography is a much more effective way to connect with them when they are upset,” explained Newton-Small. She recounted the experience of a man with dementia, a former accountant, who would harass the other residents and staff in his community whenever they rang the chow bell. “When we did his story, they finally realized that he’d also been a volunteer firefighter his entire life. There was the same kind of bell in the firehouse, and whenever he heard [the chow bell] he was trying to evacuate people,” she said. “They changed the bell to a chime, and he was no longer accosting people.” MemoryWell primarily works directly with senior living communities (the stories were originally conceived as a tool for Alzheimer’s and dementia care), but Newton-Small believes that family members, particularly grandchildren, can benefit from them as well. “Intergenerationally, it’s a point of commonality, of conversation, of connection,” she said. A young fashionista, for example, might learn that her grandmother used to

Planning ahead From page B-14 Top-tier options and separate insurance plans offer higher or full values, but it will cost extra. If you have homeowners or renters insurance, you likely have some coverage. Check your policy. 8. Tips Movers appreciate tips after a long day of heavy lifting. Give tips based on your satisfaction level, but a good rule of thumb is 5 percent of the total bill. 9. Storage If you can’t immediately move your possessions into your new home, you might have to rent a self-storage unit. Costs vary by size and location. Public Storage units typically range from about $50 to $400 per month in this area. The less time and space you need, the less expensive the unit.

sew her own dresses and form a bond over dressmaking. The basic service for families costs $299, but MemoryWell also offers an option for families to build on their professionally-written 800-word stories using digital media for an additional fee. There is also a $2,500 option for a magazine-length profile.

Other options MemoryWell is just one of the many ways that older adults can tell their stories, whether to improve their care or simply to preserve memories. Today’s technology makes it possible for individuals to share not only their personal narratives, but also images, video and audio memories. Stor yWor th (www.stor ywor th.com), for example, sends weekly questions, such as “What television programs did you watch as a child?” and “Have you broken any habits over the years?” that can be answered by email, on the web, or in its app. (Personal photos can also be uploaded.) As the storyteller, you can share your responses each week with as many friends or family as you’d like, and at the end of the year, all 52 stories are printed in a keepsake book. At $79, a regular subscription includes a year’s worth of story prompts and a black-and-white hardcover book. If writing is not your forte, StoryCorps (www.storycorps.org) is a free service that allows you to record, preserve and share your oral history at StoryCorps recording sites around the country, or by using the StoryCorps app on your phone. The 40-minute session is formatted as an interview between you and a loved one, or anybody else you choose, on any topic you’d like. Afterwards, you’ll receive a digital copy of the interview for download, and, with your permission, StoryCorps will send a copy to the American Folklife Center at the Library of Congress to archive.

Get a handle on all costs Mentally walk through your moving process from start to finish. Outline the potential items and services you’ll need at least a month ahead. Then, research prices and get multiple estimates for the best deals and service, Nichols suggested. Leave wiggle room for unexpected costs, and take your time purchasing new home furnishings, said Daria Victorov, a certified financial planner at Abacus Wealth Partners in San Mateo, California. Remember, you don’t have to buy everything at once. “When you move into an empty house it feels like you need everything right away,” Victorov said. “Before you move, figure out what those essential items are, the things that you use every day, and that’ll help you figure out your budget, too.” —AP

To subscribe, see page 41.

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — A P R I L 2 0 1 9

Memory care staff become ‘best friends’ By Deborah Gertz Husar A memory care facility in Illinois uses a “best friends” approach to build relationships with residents — and to help their families. “Basically being a ‘best friend’ with Alzheimer’s patients is just that. It’s getting to know that person, their past,” said Robyn Johnson, director of nursing at Adams Pointe in Quincy, Ill. The process, outlined in The Best Friends Approach to Alzheimer’s Care, by Virginia Bell and David Troxel, begins even before residents move into Adams Pointe or the Arbors, the memory care assisted living facility run by Americare. Families provide a “life story” for residents, providing information about the person from childhood to the present day, which staff uses to build a friendship with the person. They fill a “memory window” or “shadow box” outside each room with personal items tied to that life story, including photos or collectibles. “It helps us, especially [in dealing] with someone with memory deficits, to focus on something from their childhood or something from their family,” Johnson said.

Overcomes fear on both sides Meeting new people, such as Arbors staff, can be scary for residents dealing with dementia, but that background information helps staff more quickly become their friends. Kathie Palmer, nursing supervisor at the Arbors, said, “It’s that one-on-one approach to get to know the whole person, not the person presented to you. You’re not treating the disease. You’re treating the person.”

The approach, Bell and Troxel say, improves the lives of people with dementia and reduces challenging behaviors. “When caregivers rethink or recast their relationship to the person with dementia to be a best friend, a caregiver moves from sadness and stress to acceptance and success, a person with dementia feels more safe, secure and valued,” they wrote. Administrator Mary Leezer said, “If we can bring a smile to their face, we’ve done something.”

Understanding is key The best friends “knack” relies on using knowledge, nurturing, activities, community and kinship to work with residents. Palmer said, “You’ve got to know your residents to get them in a happy place to feel satisfied and fulfilled. We have to live in their reality, not ours. If they think they’re in Pekin, we’re in Pekin. There’s no sense trying to bring them to our reality.” While staff at any long-term care facility work to become friends with and build relationships with residents, Johnson said Adams Pointe is the only facility in its area taking the formal best friends approach. Staff members are certified in the approach within 90 days of being hired, and attend annual refresher courses. Becoming a best friend also benefits family members, who often struggle as Mom or Dad no longer recognize them. Leezer said, “It’s a comfort, even with families, if they become the best friend instead of the daughter or the son.” —AP

BEACON BITS

Apr. 26

UNDERSTANDING DEMENTIA Some cognitive changes are a normal part of aging, and some

aren’t. Lindsey Vajpeyi, director of education at Insight Medical Center, discusses the types and stages of dementia and offers tips for brain health on Friday, April

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Housing Options

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INDEPENDENT LIVING COMMUNITY

Seabury at Friendship Terrace 202-244-7400 4201 Butterworth Place NW Washington, DC 20016 www.friendshipterrace.org Active, affordable senior living close to stores, restaurants, transportation and entertainment can be found at Seabury at Friendship Terrace! Located in a quiet, tree-lined northwest Washington neighborhood, Friendship Terrace is just two blocks from the Tenleytown Metro station. The community offers affordable senior living with subsidy assistance to those who are eligible, as well as exciting onsite events including performances, lectures, holiday observances, socials, and more. A rooftop deck, greenhouse, library, lounges, and a dining room overlooking an outdoor courtyard are highlights of the community. Your new home awaits. Remarkable in town value! Applications now being accepted. Call for your tour today!

INDEPENDENT LIVING COMMUNITY

Brooke Grove Retirement Village 301-260-2320 18100 Slade School Road Sandy Spring, MD 20860 www.bfg.org You’ll feel it as soon as you drive onto our 220-acre campus of lush pastures and hardwood forest—all that makes independent living at Brooke Grove different. Beautiful cottages in a truly picturesque setting. Maintenance-free living, with more time for what you really want to do. Personalized fitness programs, meals prepared by talented chefs, clubs and social events. Neighbors who share your interests and passions. Come for a visit and see why Brooke Grove Retirement Village is one of the most soughtafter retirement communities in the state. Living here is simply different … because what surrounds you really matters.

ASSISTED LIVING

Chevy Chase House (202) 686-5504 5420 Connecticut Ave., NW Washington, DC 20015

26, from 11 a.m. to noon. Part of Virginia Hospital Center’s Healthy Aging lecture series, this free event takes place at Carlin Springs Campus, 601 S. Carlin Springs Rd., Arlington, Va. Registration is required by calling (703) 558-6859 or emailing lifeline@VirginiaHospitalCenter.com.

Ongoing

SUPPORT FOR WIDOWS Widowed Persons Outreach hosts a support group for widows or widowers under the age of 70 at Sibley Memorial Hospital, 5255

Loughboro Rd. NW, Washington, D.C. on the second and fourth Wednesday of every month from 7 to 8:30 p.m. The group will meet this month on April 10 and 24. To register, call (202) 537-4942.

www.meridiansenior.com/chevychasehouse

Visit our beautifully renovated community and tour our luxury residences! Our residents enjoy a wealth of social opportunities and enriching activities. Updated, full-sized accommodations provide an easy transition from homeownership to luxury senior living. You’ll find all-inclusive amenities, bright living spaces, a full social calendar and a dedicated staff … everything you need and desire to live life to the fullest. From your luxurious new home at Chevy Chase House, you'll experience premier city living with all of its benefits. Your day awaits. Call or visit Chevy Chase House today. Ask about our value priced studios at $4,499. Take a tour and enjoy lunch on us! .

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A P R I L 2 0 1 9 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Lessons learned from a D.C. empty nest By Ashraf Khalil It’s a tale with everything you’d need for a soap opera: star-crossed lovers, a stable relationship threatened by younger suitors, pregnancy and loss, and a hungry raccoon. Washingtonians, along with a global community of eagle-watchers, have been transfixed this winter by Liberty and Justice — two bald eagles who’ve nested and raised eaglets together for 14 years on the grounds of the city’s police academy. Their annual mating ritual, egg-laying and hatching process normally draws thousands of viewers to a special eagle cam. But this year has been unusually dramatic, with twists and turns that became headline news outside the eagle-watcher community. “It’s been a roller-coaster ride,” said Tommy Lawrence, managing director of the Earth Conservation Corps, which runs the eagle cam and has been instrumental in repopulating the local bald eagle community. “People kind of take ownership of the eagles and really become invested in their well-being.” The saga of Justice and Liberty isn’t the capital’s only eagle drama. One recent day, the Blue Line of Washington’s Metro was delayed to rescue an injured bald eagle from the tracks. The bird later had to be euthanized. Another eagle cam, at the National Arboretum, also has chronicled relationship tensions this year. Two eagles, known as Mr. President and The First Lady, experienced a comparatively mild relationship drama when another female showed up and tried to woo Mr. President. The interloper was chased off by The First Lady.

Hubby went AWOL But the bigger drama involved Liberty, the female, and Justice. Their mating season started normally. Together they prepared the nest they’ve shared for 14 years. They mated on Feb. 9.

Normally at that point, Liberty would lay eggs — usually two — and spend most of her time sitting on them while they incubated and the male sought food for the family. But this year, Justice disappeared almost immediately after mating, leaving Liberty with no way to gather food while keeping the eggs warm. During his absence a younger male eagle began appearing at the nest and courting Liberty. Researchers named him “Aaron Burrd” and speculated that he had fought Justice and driven him from the territory. A second young male rival also made some appearances. After about 10 days, Liberty began making short flights away from the nest, causing the temperature of the eggs to drop too low to hatch. On Feb. 23, Liberty flew away with one of her new suitors for two days, essentially abandoning her nonviable eggs. The next day, Justice reappeared after a more than two-week absence to reclaim his place. When Liberty returned, she didn’t accept him back at first, but gradually they reconciled. Then came a final Darwinian twist. While the reunited pair was away from the nest, a raccoon climbed up and ate both eggs live on camera. Nothing was actually lost. The eggs were never going to hatch. But Lawrence said some newer eagle-cam devotees didn’t fully understand what had happened. “The reaction was intense,” Lawrence said. “People would start freaking out on Facebook and asking why we didn’t rescue the eggs, and then some older members of the community would calm them down.”

Trying again When interviewed recently by the AssoSee EMPTY NEST, page B-19

BEACON BITS

Apr. 18

HEAR BOB LEVEY

Hear Beacon columnist Bob Levey and other well-known journalists offer their perspective on the challenges of reporting and journalism today on Thursday, April 18, at 2 p.m. Hosted by Kensington Park Senior Living, this free event takes place at the Women’s Club of Chevy Chase, 7931 Connecticut Ave., Chevy Chase, Md. Email KPEvents@KensingtonSL.com or call (301) 946-7700 to RSVP by April 12.

Ongoing

FREE MONTHLY MOVIES

The Montgomery County Police Department’s “Free Senior Movie and Safety Forum” at ArcLight Bethesda Theatre returns on the first Wednesday of every month at 10 a.m. Officers will discuss crime prevention strategies and tips for safety, security and well-being before each movie. Mark your calendars for The Bridges of Madison County on May 1, Julie and Julia on June 5, and Unforgiven on July 3. ArcLight is located at 7101 Democracy Blvd., Potomac, Md. For more information, call (240) 773-6727 or email Dana.Stroman@MontgomeryCountyMD.gov.

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — A P R I L 2 0 1 9

Empty nest From page B-18 ciated Press, Lawrence announced breaking news: Justice and Liberty, after slowly rekindling their relationship, had mated the day before. Now the watch is on to see if Liberty is still fertile this late in the mating season and will lay more eggs. Justice, by the way, has continued his mysterious disappearances. On March 7, he vanished for five days before returning. “We don’t know where he keeps going,” Lawrence said. “Our minds go to ‘Does he have a second nest somewhere?’” The twists and turns have been covered by multiple local media outlets with Kardashian-level detail. Now speculation is running hot as to whether Justice and Liberty have a long-term future together or whether the younger suitors are a glimpse of the future. “It does seem like there’s all these young bucks out there looking for some action,” Lawrence said. If the aging Justice is going to face regular challenges from younger males going forward, Lawrence said he might discover that his mate is fiercely loyal — to the nest. “The female will give up her mate before she gives up her nest,” he said. “Liberty basically has the keys to the house and she decides who she lets in.”

Successful conservation The cult-like following for the eagles is a testament to the wildly successful mid1990s campaign to bring them back after they had died out locally in the late 1940s. Starting in 1994, the Earth Conservation Corps brought 16 new eagle hatch-

lings — four per year — from Wisconsin and raised them locally so they would develop an affinity for the area. Mature eagles leave the nest after four to six months, and leave their home territory for several years, then frequently return to their home area to mate — “like going to college,” Lawrence said. Eagles generally live about 30 years, so that first batch of eaglets would be a middle-aged 25 now. But much of the nowhealthy local bald eagle population is presumed to be the children and grandchildren of those first few hatchling batches. Dan Rauch, a wildlife biologist who is responsible for Mr. President and The First Lady, praised the following that has developed around both local eagle cams. “The community is great! Some people are very involved and are watching all day. They really have an emotional investment in these birds,” he said. Rauch attributes the popularity to the comeback story, the eagle’s status as America’s national symbol, and the natural fierce magnetism of the winged predators. “The bald eagle itself is a very charismatic animal,” he said. Lawrence said he has learned not to underestimate the power and devotion of the eagle-watcher community. He recalls last year when a special cable malfunctioned and knocked out the eagle cam. Lawrence put out an appeal on Facebook asking if any IT professionals could donate their time and take a look. “Literally a few hours later I get a call from the people who lobby for Verizon saying, `We’ve received a bunch of phone calls, including from two congresswomen, asking us to fix this,’” he said. —AP

BEACON BITS

Apr. 14

AN AFTERNOON WITH SUFFRAGISTS

Wear your Suffragist best, including hats and pearls, to Mount Vernon Unitarian Church on Sunday, April 14, at 3 p.m. for “The Grit and Wit of Women.” Learn about the history of the Suffragist movement and plans for a memorial. Tea and cookies will be served. $25 per person. The church is located at 1901 Windmill Ln., Alexandria. Va. For tickets, visit MVUC.brownpapertickets.com.

Apr. 13+

UKRAINIAN EASTER BAZAAR

Enjoy traditional food and crafts at the Holy Trinity Ukrainian Catholic Church Easter Bazaar, 16631 New Hampshire Ave., Silver Spring, Md. This free event happens on Saturday, April 13, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Sunday, April 14, from 1 to 3 p.m. For more information, call (716) 903-5485.

Apr. 16

TASTY TOMATOES

Learn how to harvest your own tomatoes on Tuesday, April 16, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at Beatley Library, 5005 Duke St., Alexandria, Va. This free class from Master Gardeners of Northern Virginia requires advance registration at mgvn.org. For more information, call (703) 2286414 or email mgarlalex@gmail.com.

Apr. 27

GROW IT, EAT IT

Learn how to grow your own food at the 8th Annual Grow It Eat It Open House on Saturday, April 27, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Agricultural History Farm Park, 18410 Muncaster Rd., Derwood, Md. Hosted by the Montgomery County Master Gardener program of the University of Maryland Extension, this event includes gardening classes, workshops, demo gardens, and children’s activities. To preregister for workshops (small fee required), visit giei2019.eventbrite.com. For more information, call (301) 590-9638 or email mc.growit@gmail.com.

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Housing Options

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ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITY

Chesterbrook Residences 703-531-0781 2030 Westmoreland Street Falls Church, VA www.chesterbrookres.org Make the move to Chesterbrook Residences and enjoy all the freedom that comes with residing in a caring assisted living community! Comfortable one- or two-bedroom apartments feature great views of the wooded area surrounding our neighborhood. You'll enjoy chef-prepared meals, many on-site activities, outings to great DC area attractions, and relaxing community spaces that feel like home. On-site rehab services include physical, occupational, and speech therapy. Plus, an on-site wellness center, visiting physicians, and maintenance-free living offer convenience that you can't find at home. Call today to schedule your tour of our nonprofit community today!

INDEPENDENT/PERSONAL CARE/ASSISTED LIVING

Seabury at Springvale Terrace 301-587-0190 8505 Springvale Road Silver Spring, MD 20910 www.springvaleterrace.org Discover Seabury at Springvale Terrace, inside and out? Our Assisted Living offers a lifestyle you will love! Affordable value, that can only be found at our community, providing wonderful care, exercise, music, art, a host of daily activities and social events, as well as special entertainment for all residents. Enjoy the benefits of Independent Living just steps away from downtown Silver Spring. Within blocks, you will have access to the Silver Spring Civic Center, Library, AFI Silver, Whole Foods, CVS pharmacy, movie theaters, shopping, restaurants, and more! Come take a fresh look at Seabury at Springvale Terrace. Assisted Living apartments are available now, but space is limited. Call to schedule your visit today.

INDEPENDENT LIVING COMMUNITY

Ashby Ponds 877-575-0231 21170 Ashby Ponds Boulevard Ashburn, VA 20147 EricksonLiving.com Explore stylish senior living at Ashby Ponds Ashley Ponds is Loudoun County's most popular retirement community --and for good reason! Few senior living destinations have such a wide variety of apartment home options. The community offers cozy one bedroom floor plans, spacious two bedroom options, and deluxe apartments with special features like sunrooms, dens, and extra storage. Regardless of the home size and style you choose, your Ashby Ponds apartment home includes quality fixtures and finishes, like granite countertops and stainless steel appliances. Our custom interiors team can also help you create your ideal living space with custom window treatments, closets, built-ins, and more. Call 1-877-575-0231 today for your your free Ashby Ponds brochure.

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WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — A P R I L 2 0 1 9

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Money

TAX-FREE LIFELONG LEARNING 529 college savings plans aren’t only for grandkids; you can use them too

Law &

DEALER IN Are prepaid car maintenance plans really worth it? Sometimes they can be IS SMALLER BETTER? Small-cap stocks have led the pack recently, but probably won’t do so forever

Live like the royals — frugally, that is By Andrea Browne Taylor With an estimated net worth of $88 billion, the British royal family is one of the wealthiest monarchies in Europe. However, just because money is no object for them doesn’t mean they’re frivolous spenders — quite the opposite. It has been well-documented that Queen Elizabeth II keeps a close eye on her spending, and frugality is a trait that has passed down to other members of her family. Take a look at several of the most widely reported penny-pinching habits of the various members of the British royal family. In many ways, they’re just like the rest of us.

Prince William and Kate Middleton shop at IKEA Prince William and his wife, Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge, who are parents of three small children, could easily have custom furniture made for their little ones’ rooms. Instead, they like to shop at Swedish home furnishings retailer IKEA. During a visit to Sweden’s national museum of architecture and design ArkDes in 2018, they revealed to IKEA’s head of design Marcus Engman that they had pur-

chased some of the brand’s furniture for two of their kids’ rooms, the Mirror reported.

Prince Charles saves leftovers Chef and author Carolyn Robb cooked for the British royal family for more than 10 years, from 1989 to 2000, so she’s wellversed on their eating habits. In a 2015 interview with Racked.com, Robb revealed that Prince Charles is adamant about saving leftovers for additional meals. “The Prince was very economical and very much believed that nothing should go to waste,” she explained. “If there were leftovers, they’d be used one way or another…If we made roasted lamb and there were leftovers, we’d probably go and make Shepherd’s pie the next night.”

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle fly coach You might expect an heir to the British throne to use a private jet. But in 2018, the Daily Mail reported that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle flew economy class on a British Airways flight to Nice, France, for a New Year’s vacation. According to passen-

gers who were on the flight, the couple — casually dressed in jeans, a baseball cap and a beanie — sat at the back of the plane with three bodyguards. In 2014, Prince William flew coach on an American Airlines connecting flight from Memphis, Tenn., to Dallas, on his way home from a friend’s wedding. He only ordered water on the short flight, the Daily Mail noted.

Queen Elizabeth II uses a space heater Queen Elizabeth II has some thrifty habits, too. She has been photographed on several occasions using an electric space heater at Buckingham Palace to keep warm when greeting guests in the audience room, as well as in her private sitting room at her vacation castle in Scotland. When the temps drop, rather than crank up the thermostat at her 775-room palace or her Balmoral castle, she simply plugs in a $40 space heater and sets it inside a room’s fireplace. Yet she’s also mindful of energy use at Buckingham Palace — so much so that there’s a ban on the use of light bulbs over

40 watts, according to the Daily Express, and lights must be turned off when a room isn’t in use. After all, when you live in a palace that spans 828,818 square feet, energy costs can quickly get out of hand if you aren’t keeping a close watch.

Kate Middleton recycles clothing Several royals have been photographed out-and-about over the years wearing their favorite clothing and accessory items repeatedly. The Duchess of Cambridge favors highend brands but gets her money’s worth from them. In fact, WhoWhatWear.co.uk has deemed her “the perfect advertisement for the cost-per-wear shopping model,” which calculates the true price of a fashion item by dividing the cost by the number of times it’s been worn. The site reports that she has been spotted at least six times since 2011 wearing a Smythe “Duchess” blazer (she wears it so much the brand renamed it after her), which retails for $695. Using the cost-perSee LIVE LIKE ROYALS, page 24

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A P R I L 2 0 1 9 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Live like royals wear model, the true cost of that blazer based on how many times she has publicly worn it is just under $110.

Tennis star Serena Williams recently praised Markle for sporting a $145 blazer from her Serena fashion line. (The blazer has sold out since Williams posted a picture to her Instagram account of Markle wearing the garment.)

Prince William’s children wear hand-me-downs

Prince William and Kate Middleton cook

Wearing your elder brother’s or sister’s old clothes is a rite of passage for many younger siblings — including the British royals. Princess Charlotte, the daughter of Prince William and Kate Middleton, was photographed earlier this year holding her new baby brother, Prince Louis, while wearing a blue cardigan with a distinct print around the collar. Social media fans quickly pointed out that it was the same cardigan her big brother, Prince George, wore in 2016 in an official photo for his great-grandmother Queen Elizabeth II’s 90th birthday, the Huffington Post UK notes. In that same picture of Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, he’s seen wearing a cream top and pants that were also worn by his big sister.

While Prince William admits he’s not the best in the kitchen, his royal highness still enjoys cooking for himself. Last year, while serving as a judge at a charity cookoff competition in London, the Prince shared with the crowd that his favorite meal to prepare at home is roast chicken and steak, according to People.com. Even his kids like to prepare home-cooked meals with help from their mom. While making an appearance earlier this year at St. Luke’s Community Centre in London, where the Prince and Duchess helped prepare meals, Kate Middleton shared with other attendees that her children Prince George and Princess Charlotte like making pizza dough from scratch, Hello! magazine reports.

From page 23

Meghan Markle is a budget fashionista The Duchess of Sussex’s fashion sense has taken center stage since she started dating her now-husband, Prince Harry. The American actress-turned-British-royal has been lauded for her budget-friendly style choices — including $80 Missoma gold rings she was spotted wearing via social media and a $300 J. Crew coat.

Queen Elizabeth II saves gift-wrapping paper In the biography Young Elizabeth: The Making of Our Queen, author Kate Williams shares that the Queen has a longtime habit of collecting wrapping paper and ribbons from gifts she’s received, smoothing them out and storing them to use again, People.com reports. Just like many of us. © 2019 The Kiplinger Washington Editors. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

BEACON BITS

Apr. 11

SOCIAL SECURITY CHOICES

Get the facts from a professional to understand and enroll in Social Security on Thursday, April 11, from 6 to 9 p.m. at Woodrow Wilson Library, 6101 Knollwood Dr., Falls Church, Va. For more information about this free event, call (703) 820-8774 TTY 711 or email libWW@fairfaxcounty.gov.

Apr. 12

SENIOR LEADERSHIP MONTGOMERY

The application deadline for Senior Leadership Montgomery is Friday, April 12, at 5 p.m. This program is for retired or soon-to-be retired individuals 55+ who are interested in learning more about Montgomery County, meeting new people, and exploring ways to give back to the community. For more information or to apply, call (301) 881-3333, email ali.levingston@leadermont.org or visit leadershipmontgomerymd.org/senior-leadership.

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — A P R I L 2 0 1 9

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Law & Money

Pay for lifelong learning with tax-free fund By Mary Kane If you have helped children or grandchildren with college costs, you are probably already familiar with 529 plans — the taxadvantaged education savings accounts offered by states and educational institutions. There’s no federal tax deduction for 529s, but residents can usually get a state tax deduction on contributions made to their own state’s plan. Furthermore, the money grows tax-free over the years until you take it out, taxfree, to use for a child’s tuition, books, room and board, and other qualified educational expenses.

Works for any age student But you may not realize the plans also can serve a different purpose — to fund your own education. If you are a lifelong learner, you can set up a 529 plan for yourself to pay for your educational pursuits. You get the same tax breaks and benefits as any 529 plan owner. You can fund the account with new money or with unused money from a child’s account. Any leftover money in your 529 that you don’t use can go to the 529 of a child or grandchild. Joe Hurley, 62, of Victor, N.Y., used about $5,000 saved in his 529 plan to study horticulture and conservation at Finger Lakes Community College. “I don’t think a lot of people know you can do one just for yourself,” he said. “It sounds almost too good to be true.” Hurley, who is a former accountant and founder of Savingforcollege.com, a college finance research website, learned about a personal 529 after setting up plans for his two children in the early 1990s. He sold the website in 2012 and now runs a farm. Karen Austin, deputy treasurer for the state of Iowa, set up a 529 for herself in

2012 to help pay for her MBA from the University of Iowa. By the time she finished her degree, Austin deducted nearly $9,000 over three years from her state income taxes. She says her only regret is not saving money in a 529 sooner.

Shop around To set up your own 529, do some shopping first. Find details on different state plans at savingforcollege.com. Most states (including Maryland, Virginia and the District of Columbia) offer residents a state income tax break for contributing to their own state’s plan. Virginia taxpayers can deduct up to $4,000 per account per year on state taxes. In Maryland, individuals may deduct up to $2,500 per beneficiary per year. Married couples may deduct up to $5,000 per beneficiary per year.

Contributions to the D.C. College Savings Plan by D.C. residents may be deducted up to $4,000 per year by an individual, and up to $8,000 per year by married taxpayers who each make contributions to their own account.

You can choose a plan in another state, which could be a smart move if your state doesn’t offer deductions and another state’s plan offers better investing options See LIFELONG LEARNING, page 26

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A P R I L 2 0 1 9 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Are prepaid car maintenance plans worth it? By Ronald Montoya, Edmunds Prepaid car maintenance plans are one of the most common items a dealership finance and insurance manager will offer you when you buy a new car. The sales pitch promises the advantage of “locking in” maintenance prices at today’s rates for a little extra amount added to your monthly payment. Then, whenever you need scheduled maintenance, just roll in, get the service done, and roll out without ever opening your wallet.

The pitch sounds tempting. But what exactly do these plans cover? And are they a smart use of your money?

Identify the type of plan There are two types of prepaid maintenance: one offered by the automaker (or a company it has approved) and another from the dealership. A car manufacturer’s prepaid maintenance plan usually covers the regularly scheduled maintenance listed in the owner’s

manual and excludes coverage for anything that wears out, such as brake pads or windshield wipers. Typically, any of the brand’s franchised new-car dealership service departments will honor it. These plans can be tailored to the length of ownership. Dealership-based maintenance plans can offer such services as unlimited oil changes, which are useful, but they might not include other maintenance items. Further, prepaid plans that are only good at a single dealership limit your flexibility.

Do your research According to Oren Weintraub, president of Authority Auto, a car-buying concierge company based in Los Angeles, it’s nearly impossible to know if the price for a prepaid plan is a good one as you sit in a dealership’s finance and insurance office, signing paperwork. “People get hit with so much information, and they’re unprepared,” he said. “They have no idea of the price of the product.” That’s because the finance manager will likely present the prepaid maintenance plan in terms of a monthly payment, not the overall price of the plan. One way to get clarity is to research the cost of prepaid maintenance before you buy the car, when there’s no pressure and you have time to compare out-of-pocket and prepaid costs. Contact the service department of a dealership that sells the vehicle brand in which you’re interested, and ask to speak to the service manager or a service adviser. Request a list of all the manufacturer’s required maintenance for the vehicle you’re interested in, along with the price of each service. If you’re planning on having the car for three years, that’s the period for which you want the quote. If it’s five years, ask for that. Also, ensure you’re not getting the dealership’s service recommendations, which

Lifelong learning From page 25 or lower fees. You also can research and compare plans at the website of the College Savings Plans Network (collegesavings.org). If you decided only recently to go back to school, you won’t have time to let your 529 contributions grow. But most states (including Md., Va., and D.C.) allow for immediate 529 withdrawals, according to Mark Kantrowitz, publisher for Savingforcollege.com. You can set up a plan one day, take money out the next day and still qualify for a state tax deduction that same year.

Know the rules You may be tempted to use the money to take a trip advertised as an educational tour, but it likely won’t count as a qualified plan expense, Hurley warned. Continuing education or certification courses count, so you could use a 529 for

often include work that’s not required by the manufacturer. Armed with the out-of-pocket costs, you can see if the price for a prepaid plan is a good one. If it’s too high and you can’t strike a deal that’s less than what you’d pay out of pocket, it’s not worth it. Keep in mind that if you wrap prepaid maintenance into the financing for your vehicle purchase or lease, you will be paying interest on it. If you can’t get a good deal on a plan, you’d be better off setting up a maintenance savings account and drawing on that to pay for service visits. You’d earn a smidge of interest on your money instead of paying interest for the plan.

Incentives for lessees A good maintenance deal can be had if you’re leasing, Weintraub said. Audi and Mercedes-Benz are two carmakers that incentivize the purchase of prepaid maintenance by increasing the residual value (the estimated long-term value of a vehicle as determined by the lender) of the leased vehicle. With the residual value increase, the vehicle is estimated to be worth more at the end of the lease since it would have been properly maintained at the dealership. To incentivize the prepaid plan, the dealership will pass on those savings to the consumer, thereby reducing the price of the plan. Weintraub gave the example of a lease for a 2018 Audi Q5 with a residual value of 55 percent. The prepaid maintenance plan’s retail cost is $869 for four years, according to Audi. But if you were to fold the cost of the plan into your lease, Audi would help you get a break by raising the SUV’s residual value by 1 percent, Weintraub said. If the car’s retail price is $50,000, that tweak would add $500 to its residual value. See CAR MAINTENANCE, page 27

those. Be sure any course you take is offered by an eligible educational institution, and use the money only to pay tuition and other eligible expenses. Otherwise, you could face a 10% tax penalty and income taxes on the account’s earnings, and you also may have to pay back your state tax deduction. Going back to school may make you eligible for the federal Lifetime Learning tax credit, which is worth 20% of the first $10,000 in tuition you pay per year, for a maximum credit of $2,000. But you can’t double dip on tax breaks, Kantrowitz pointed out. You can’t use the same educational expenses to justify both the tax credit and the tax-free withdrawal from a 529. You’d owe income tax on the earnings withdrawn from your 529, though the 10% penalty would be waived. To avoid the tax hit, use 529 money only after you exceed the limit of the expenses covered by the tax credit. © 2019 The Kiplinger Washington Editors. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Law & Money

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — A P R I L 2 0 1 9

Smaller stocks are doing well, for now By Stan Choe The stock market’s biggest gains are once again coming from its smallest companies, but the trend may not last much longer. Smaller-company stocks like Allegiant Travel and AK Steel have been soaring since late December and leading the rest of the market — a sharp reversal from much of the winter, when smaller stocks were plunging more than the rest of the market. The Russell 2000 index of small-cap stocks has jumped 19.8 percent since Christmas Eve versus 16.2 percent for the big stocks in the S&P 500 large-cap index, though neither has returned to the records they set late last year. Bed Bath and Beyond, for example, has surged 46.3 percent since Christmas Eve, helped by a stronger-than-expected earnings report where it said it’s ahead of plan in eventually returning to profit growth. Besides earnings reports, smaller stocks have also been benefiting in recent weeks from reduced worries that the Federal Reserve will raise interest rates too quickly. The Federal Reserve has pledged to be patient in raising interest rates, even though the economy is still growing, with inflation low and worries high about weakening growth. That’s a big deal for investors in small-company stocks, because they often carry higher levels of debt than their bigger rivals, which gets more expensive as borrowing costs rise. Stocks in the S&P 600 small-cap index have about 3.3 times more in net debt than they do in earnings before interest payments, taxes and other items. The big stocks in the S&P 500, meanwhile, have just 1.7 times more debt than earnings before interest payments, taxes and other items.

which would be just about a 2 percent rise from mid-March. Also, after their quick rebound, smallcap stocks no longer look as cheap as they did just a few weeks ago, relative to their earnings. And if the economy is indeed in the later stages of its current expansion cycle, as many economists believe, smaller companies may be in line for a more difficult time than their larger rivals, for a variety of reasons. Profit margins at smaller companies are more vulnerable to rising costs and a slowing economy, for example, say strategists at Wells Fargo Investment Institute. So even though those strategists are forecasting similar returns for small-cap stocks this year as for other areas of the stock market, they say small-cap stocks may take investors on a more volatile ride getting there. —AP Clip this offer to apply for coverage!

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Just don’t count on this run to last forever. “We love the bounce back, but we don’t anticipate the momentum continuing,” Jefferies strategist Steven DeSanctis wrote in a recent report. He is sticking with his forecast for the Russell 2000 index of small-cap stocks to end the year at 1,550,

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From page 26 That amount would be subtracted from the $869 maintenance plan, costing you only $369. Figure in tax and interest, and your cost for the plan would be about $410, which buys you scheduled maintenance for up to 50,000 miles, plus brake fluid replacement every two years. Based on price quotes Weintraub received from two Southern California Audi dealerships, the out-of-pocket cost for those service visits come to about $1,910. You would save $1,500 by prepaying. In the end, prepaid maintenance plans can be a convenient and cost-effective way to service your new vehicle, provided you’re willing to research prices ahead of time and aren’t shy about negotiating. —AP

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A P R I L 2 0 1 9 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

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WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — A P R I L 2 0 1 9

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Say you saw it in the Beacon

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A P R I L 2 0 1 9 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Travel Leisure &

Sumatra’s orangutans and other wildlife thrive in the tropical island’s national parks and sanctuaries. See story on page 32.

Exploring a classic Maine fishing village many places for quiet reverie along the shoreline, in the woods or about town. And residents want to keep it that way. The threatened “infiltration” of a Dollar Store in nearby Blue Hill prompted vociferous protests.

PHOTO BY DINA MOOS

By Glenda C. Booth To get to Stonington, Maine, from U.S. 1, wind down the Blue Hill Peninsula to Deer Isle on two-lane roads for 38 miles, past blueberry fields, rocky pastures and spruce forests, until the road stops at a snug working harbor on the peninsula’s end, a granite thumb lapped by salty ocean waves. Stonington, situated at the southern end of Deer Isle, is a quintessential coastal Maine village, named for its granite quarries. And like those formations, which were carved by a two-mile-thick glacier 20,000 years ago, living up north can be hard — especially during the long, cold winter. But summer brings colorful window boxes crammed with orange impatiens and purple petunias, hydrangea blossoms the size of volleyballs, and sweet aromas of simmering seafood. Signs advertise freshlypicked blueberries, ocean-fresh haddock fillets and fishing gear at the auto store. Summer is a time of lupines, lobster boat racing and Maine’s iconic bean “suppahs” that draw both locals and those “from aways” who gobble up traditional bean hole beans, coleslaw, pickles and pies. Fishermen head out at first light in boats with names like Scallowag, Clueless and Wicked Weak Moment. Stonington’s a slow-paced hamlet of fishing, boating, art and meandering, with

Fishing fixation Part of the fun in Stonington takes place around the town dock. Surrounding waters support a working fleet of more than 300 lobster boats. Stonington claims the title as “the state leader in pounds and dollar value of lobster landings.” You can watch the boats return, help haul out their catch, and buy a lobster fresh off the dock. In the summer, local captains conduct narrated boat trips laced with the arcana of lobstering. For example, did you know Maine’s favorite crustacean takes five to seven years to reach the legal catch size and, during that time, sheds its shell 25 to 27 times? On some boat tours, passengers can spot harbor seals lounging around on the granite boulders and hear lighthouse lore, such as the story of the first female lighthouse keeper on Mark Island. Captain Mike Moffett of the Isle au Haut Boat Company chuckled, “A lot of fishermen swung by to say hello. Hello? She had a 45 revolver to ward off the unruly ones.”

Known for its port and its granite, Stonington, Maine, is a place to hike, kayak, visit art galleries — or just hang out on the town dock, the center of the community.

The Stonington Lobster Boat Races are a July highlight. High-powered diesel- and gas-powered lobster boats compete for speed, and the winner nabs the Fastest Lobstah Boat Afloat award and the Jimmy Stevens Cup.

Celebrating granite PHOTO BY GLENDA BOOTH

The bedrock under Deer Isle is rosehued granite, formed 360 million years ago. Since the late 1800s, Stonington’s quarries have supplied the stone to historic structures, including President John F. Kennedy’s memorial at Arlington National Cemetery. A statue next to the public landing honors stoneworkers who came to the area in the 1900s from Italy, Scotland, Sweden and other countries to quarry, cut and ship granite around the country. The Deer Isle Granite Museum honors the island’s quarry workers who “built America’s cities.” In its heyday, Stonington was a “wild west town,” with 50 businesses, says the recorded narration, and the saloons hawked beer at ten cents a glass.

Finding and making art In Stonington, the nation’s lobster capital, about one in five of its 1,030 residents holds a lobster license. Its port has a fleet of 300 fishing boats.

You can easily fill a day gallery hopping for paintings, weavings, pottery and stone work. At Marlin Spike Chandlery on West Main Street, Timothy Whitten masters

fancy ropework, inspired by the sailors and fishermen who needed tough lines and knots to withstand the seas’ turbulence and vengeance. (A marlin spike is a splicing tool.) Whitten creates bell ropes, beckets, jewelry and bags from mostly linen and hemp twine. His combo shop-studio is like a museum of nautical gear from sea chests to glass float balls. The Opera House, also on historic Main Street, is a popular venue for concerts, dance, theater and films year-round. Originally a music and dance hall, the 1886 building has gone through several iterations, including abandonment, but was renovated in 1999. The Deer Isle-Stonington Historical Society maintains five historic buildings on its site, including an original jail and a house built in 1830. It features exhibits of 19th century clothes and fishery and marine transportation memorabilia. It is open to the public from June 16 to September 16. On Stinson Neck overlooking Jericho Bay is Haystack Mountain School of Crafts — an artist’s rustic haven of 40 quiet, mossy, wooded acres offering workshops in pottery, metalwork, bookmaking, weavSee MAINE, page 31

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Leisure & Travel

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — A P R I L 2 0 1 9

Maine From page 30 ing, ceramics, wood, blacksmithing, glass blowing and other arts. Students can have 24-hour-a-day immersion in their passion. You don’t need a watch here, staff say. Another example of local creativity can be found at Nervous Nellie’s Jams & Jellies, “a cottage industry in a cottage,” where Anne Beerits produces 15 flavors of jam, chutney and marmalade in her small kitchen — 40,000 jars a year. Her husband Peter gives tours of a whimsical sculptural village he has created over the past 30 years from discarded items found around the island. It’s a quirky mishmash that won Yankee magazine’s “Best of Everything” award in 2010 and 2013. For landlubber outdoor types, several nature preserves invite quiet ambles. The Is-

land Heritage Trust’s walker’s map has trails through the woods and along a rocky coast. At the Barred Island Preserve, the walk “rewards mightily, especially when a storm blowing hard from the south pounds pretty respectable waves on the shore,” according to its brochure. Savvy trekkers time their visit to watch waves simultaneously cover a sandbar from both directions, known as the “zipper effect.” Another favorite is Isle au Haut, a sixmile ferry trip from Stonington, with 18 miles of trails, rocky shorelines, cobblestone beaches, evergreen forests, marshes and a lake.

Dining and downtime As for dining, restaurants like Aragosta serve ocean-to-table dishes such as Blue Hill Bay oysters and mussels, Gulf of Maine hake and Stonington lobster tortellini.

Restaurants also specialize in delicacies made from blueberries, the state’s famous fruit — blueberry pies, cobblers, buckles, syrup, wine, jams and ice cream toppings. All around town, fresh lobsters are steamed, stewed, casseroled or lumped on a hot dog roll — genuine Downeast Maine cuisine. So, what’s the best reason to visit? There’s something about the quiet here. On most days, the tide creeps in and bathes the rocky shoreline. A cottony, gauzy fog can feel like a warm blanket. “We have a relationship with the fog,” said Marissa Hutchinson, a staffer at Island Heritage Institute. In Maine, “it’s beautiful and low key, a slower pace. Down here, we don’t have immediate access to a lot of things, but

we learn we don’t need as much.”

If you go The closest airports are in Portland, 160 miles away, and Bangor, Maine, 58 miles away. The least expensive round-trip airfare to Bangor in April is $730 on American Airlines from D.C.-area airports. The Deer Isle Chamber of Commerce, deerisle.com, has an online island guide, lodging options and maps. Stonington’s Inn on the Harbor has 13 rooms with decks offering views of the bay, islands and waterfront. Boat tours are available from Bert and I Harbor Tours, deerislecabinwithboattours.com, or Old Quarry Ocean Adventures, oldquarry.com.

BEACON BITS

Ongoing

SPY MUSEUM VOLUNTEERS The International Spy Museum, reopening to the public on Sunday,

BEACON BITS

Apr. 11

May 12, at 700 L’Enfant Plaza, Washington, D.C., is launching its first-ever volun-

NETFLIX FOR NEWBIES

teer program. Volunteers will interact with guests in a variety of roles and enjoy

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benefits such museum store discounts, field trips, free tickets and more. For more

Thursday, April 11, at 6:30 p.m. A volunteer from the Department of Parks and

information, call (202) 654-0957, email volunteer@spymuseum.org or visit spymu-

Recreation will be at Arlington Mill Senior Center, 909 S. Dinwiddie St., Arlington,

seum.org/support-spy/volunteer-program/.

Va., to present a live demonstration and explain features and device compatibility. For more information about this free event, call (703) 228-7369.

Ongoing

SUPPORT FOR WIDOWS Widowed Persons Outreach hosts a support group for widows or

widowers under the age of 70 at Sibley Memorial Hospital, 5255 Loughboro Rd. NW, Washington, D.C., on the second and fourth Wednesday of every month from 7 to 8:30 p.m. The group will meet this month on April 10 and 24. To register, call (202) 537-4942.

BRANSON & THE OZARKS, May 1 – 9 ............................................................................... $1552pp Travel by Motorcoach and see 5 Fantastic Shows, College of the Ozarks, Grist Mill, Price based on double occupancy Gateway Arch tram ride & MUCH MORE!

NIAGARA FALLS, June 9 – 13 ........................................................................................ $1149pp Travel to Canada by Motorcoach to explore the ROAR! See Horseshoe Falls, Niagara on the Lake & MUCH MORE!

Price based on double occupancy

ANNAPOLIS, MD, June 25 ..................................................................................................... $129pp Enjoy a day out in Annapolis with a tour of the State House, guided tour of Historic Annapolis, walking tour of the Naval Academy, a 40 min harbor cruise and lunch.

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A P R I L 2 0 1 9 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Three enchanting weeks in sultry Sumatra We watched the playful youngster and his mother, then took a two-hour drive on a rutted, dusty road to an elephant reserve. For an hour, a herd of elephants, including two babies, frolicked in the river as my wife scrubbed one of the them with a brush. I got as big a kick watching her wash the “little” guy as I did watching the elephants. Our next destination was the village of Tuk Tuk on Samosir Island in Lake Toba. The biggest lake in Southeast Asia, Toba was formed about 75,000 years ago following the largest known volcanic eruption of the last 25 million years, many times greater than Vesuvius or Krakatoa. We took a leisurely boat ride to explore nearby villages of the Batak people, the

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largest ethnic group in the region. The next two days featured a walk through Tuk Tuk, once a popular stop on the hippie trail. (Many shops still sell magic mushrooms.) At 3,000 feet above sea level and surrounded by three volcanoes, Bukkitingi has more to offer than cooler temperatures and dramatic scenery: surprisingly friendly locals. Soon after we checked into our hotel, we took a short walk. It was Friday, after the weekly Muslim services, and the plaza

was full of people enjoying the early evening. As we strolled through the plaza, young Muslim girls in hijabs approached us, shyly giggling, and asked us to pose for photos with them. Everyone was friendly, welcoming and curious, asking, “Where you from?” I felt like a rock star. I guess they don’t see many fat, old white men in that part of the world. Over the next three days, we walked See SUMATRA, page 33

PHOTO BY FLICKR/SBAMUELLER

By Don Mankin The young orangutan swung on a vine like an Olympic gymnast. From the look on his face, it was clear that he was having a great time performing for the sweaty hikers who had trekked through the Sumatran jungle to catch his show. My wife and I were in the orangutan reserve on the edge of Bukit Lawang in Northern Sumatra on a trip hosted by Eldertreks — an adventure travel company specializing in exotic trips for mature travelers (www.eldertreks.com). The young primate was just the opening act in a three-week adventure exploring the wildlife, culture, natural history and scenery of one of the most interesting places on earth.

A bridge in Sumatra’s second-largest city, Bukittinggi, leads a path to its zoo. Short hikes on this 1,100-mile-long island can reward trekkers with glimpses of birds, monkeys, rhinos and tigers.

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Leisure & Travel

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — A P R I L 2 0 1 9

Sumatra From page 32 through rural villages outside the town, and got a dose of Minangkabau culture — the ancient matrilineal people who dominate this part of western Sumatra — with a visit to the beautifully restored king’s palace and to a family in a local village. On our last day in Bukittinggi, we explored nearby tunnels, built with local slave labor during their occupation by Japan in WWII. The tunnels end in Sianok Canyon — not a Grand Canyon by any stretch of the imagination, but a pretty good canyon nonetheless, and one that is considerably easier to hike.

Krakatoa and pygmy rhinos Our next significant stop was Krakatoa, the legendary volcano off the southern tip of Sumatra. Krakatoa’s eruption in 1883 was probably the single greatest destructive force in modern history. All that is left of that volcano is an arc of islands that were part of the rim of the original caldera (the crater formed when a volcano erupts and collapses). Our destination was Anak Krakatoa (“child of Krakatoa”), a volcanic island that emerged in the middle of the original caldera from an eruption in 1927. After a rough two-hour ride in speedboats, we landed on a black-sand beach, then hiked through the tropical brush to an exposed expanse on the volcano’s flank. A few more minutes of hiking through the rocky lunar landscape granted us a view of steam and smoke drifting out of the caldera at the top, as well as the remnants of the original caldera, now steep junglecovered islands, not far away. Our last day included a visit to the Rhino Breeding Center in Way Kampas National Park. There are fewer than 100 pygmy rhinos in the world, and all of them are in

Sumatra. At the time of our visit, seven were in the breeding center. For almost an hour we were able to watch one of the “residents” devour bananas, branches, brush and almost everything else in sight in his protected compound. Then on a boat ride up a jungle river, we saw monkeys, birds (blue herons, kingfishers, fish eagles) and crocs slithering into the water.

domes, women in colorful head scarves sweeping their stoops, children in school uniforms waving to us, men repairing trucks in their front yards, and people selling all kinds of wares from stalls in front of their homes. At one point, we crossed the equator and stopped just long enough to take photos, straddling the imaginary meridian with one foot in each hemisphere — a

symbol, perhaps, of the complexity and diversity of this sultry, magical place. ElderTreks.com offers trips to Sumatra at $5,495; they also offer excursions to Europe, Africa and Antarctica. Don Mankin, an award-winning travel writer, will be leading a trip to Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia in October. For more information, visit adventuretransformations.com.

Bumpy but scenic road trips Our trip spanned the 1,110-mile-long island of Sumatra almost from end to end. That meant that we spent a lot of time on rough, twisting roads. Yet these drives were usually scenic, winding through dark, green tunnels of overhanging trees, and past rice paddies, tropical forests, volcanic cones covered in tangled jungle, and terraced fields of coffee, beans, corn and chili peppers. From our mini-bus we glimpsed everyday life in Sumatra — mosques with shining

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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

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A P R I L 2 0 1 9 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Most and least dangerous places to visit Reports about the most dangerous desti- do not appear to be duplicates: The Gallup nations are more useful than reports about Global Law and Order Report, and the the safest: After all, countries websites Ceoworld (cerated as safest generally fall oworld.biz), The Economist under the “round up the usual (safecities.economist.com) suspects” meme and many of and SafeAround.com. the most dangerous destinations are obvious to anyone Countries who reads a newspaper or Some entries on this list watches the evening news. shouldn’t surprise anyone: But a few recent reports Afghanistan, Iraq, Lebanon, point out a few places you Laos, North Korea, Somalia, might be considering — and TRAVEL TIPS Sudan and South Sudan, might want to reconsider. I By Ed Perkins Syria, Venezuela and Yemen. compiled results from four reMost visitors likely want to cent and current reports on safest/least avoid getting in the middle of active shootsafe destination countries and cities that ing, bombing and drone strikes, although,

oddly, nobody lists Iran. At least one of the sources, and often at least two, cite virtually all the countries in sub-Sahara Africa as dangerous, including South Africa. Mexico shouldn’t surprise anybody, but you find some surprises: At least one compilation classes the Bahamas, Bolivia and Puerto Rico as dangerous, along with the Philippines and parts of Thailand. The lists disagree on Egypt: one source lists it as dangerous, another gives it a good rating. The same is true for Uzbekistan. The tops of the “safest” lists all focus heavily on Canada, the United States, Western Europe, Australasia and the developed countries of East and Southeast Asia. And even Eastern Europe ranks reasonably high on most compilations.

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Cities To nobody’s surprise, many of the “most dangerous cities” are located in the “most dangerous countries,” including the main cities in South Africa. But dangerous ratings apply to reasonably popular visitor destinations. Gallup rates Moscow and St. Petersburg as dangerous; it comes down hard on the main cities in India, including Agra, Chennai, Delhi and Mumbai; and it gives poor scores to a handful of cities in South America that attract substantial numbers of visitors: Bogotá, Lima, Medellín, Rio, Salvador and São Paulo. Other tourist centers earning at least one dangerous rating include Cairo, San Pedro, Honduras, San Salvador, Dominican Republic and Sharm-el-Sheikh. And Mexican tourist centers Acapulco, Cabo and Mexico City get entries, although Cancún does not. The only U.S. cities to make at least one “most danger-

ous” list are Baltimore and Detroit. As with countries, the least dangerous cities all concentrate in North America, Europe, Australasia and developed Asia. The main Gulf cities of Abu Dhabi and Doha get good ratings, as does Bursa, Turkey, despite some local unrest in that area. One list rates Andorra la Vella as tops, worldwide.

Deciding where to go What to make of all this? For most of you, many of the “do not enter” places are obvious. But some low-scoring places are important visitor destinations where many travelers obviously ignore the warnings. If you’re considering a visit to one of these places, my suggestion is that you get as much information as you can before you make a commitment. Countrywide scores, for example, can be misleading: In a big country, parts can be dangerous where others are quite safe. The first place to look for information is in the U.S. State Department’s country information pages (bit.ly/DOScountryinfo). My main complaint with this source is that its standard “exercise caution” recommendation is really not very useful. One other suggestion: Don’t go anywhere where you will be thinking about safety the entire time. If you decide to go someplace with a poor safety rating, make up your mind to accept the risks, stick to major tourist centers, watch out for pickpockets and scams, and enjoy the destination. Constant worry about safety — or anything else, for that matter — can ruin a visit almost anywhere. Send email to Ed Perkins at eperkins@mind.net. Also, check out Ed’s new rail travel website at www.rail-guru.com. © 2019 Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — A P R I L 2 0 1 9

Say you saw it in the Beacon

Style

Arts &

Four books that shine a light on justice. See story on page 36.

A romp Into the Woods at Ford’s Theatre Grimm folk tales are indeed quite grim. Because of its exploration of the darkness and ambiguity of parental love, and the sometimes unexpected consequences of getting what you wish for, Into the Woods is recommended only for those 12 and above. “Happily ever after” is only half of the story…literally.

PHOTO BY CAROL ROSEGG

By Lynda Lantz It is always a treat to see a show in the intimate and history-rich Ford’s Theatre with its poignant flag-draped theatre boxes. That pleasure is enhanced by an engaging and high-energy performance like that of Into the Woods, which runs until May 22. The award-winning musical, written by Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine, is an ambitious and rewarding show that gazes at darker topics more than most musicals, but does not lack for laughter, catchy music and clever lyrics. It was also released as a popular film starring Meryl Streep in 2014. A baker and his wife journey into the woods to attempt to break the spell that keeps them from having a child. Their quest intersects with the fairy tales of Jack and the Beanstalk, Cinderella, Rapunzel and Little Red Riding Hood. At the end of the first act, the couple achieves their goal, and Cinderella, Jack and Little Red Riding Hood win their traditional endings. But there’s more to come. Despite the play’s fairy tale roots — or perhaps because of them — this is not a musical for young children. Remember, the original

A cast of standouts The entire cast features robust and wellmatched voices fully in command of the complex songs, bursting with word play. The live orchestra adds to the atmosphere. The audience quickly began to cheer on Jade Jones, whose voice inhabited the greedy, innocent and eager-to-learn Little Red Riding Hood. Another standout musical performance came from Awa Sel Secka as the baker’s wife, a woman who is determined, clever, and not afraid to break a few rules to get what she wants. The cast deftly balances ambitious songs with entertaining physical performances as well, some broadly drawn and some pointed. Cinderella’s stepsisters may have been cruel, but they were also hilari-

N OW O N STAG E

Stephen Sondheim’s Into the Woods puts a sometimes playful, sometimes dark spin on several Grimm fairy tales, including Cinderella, shown here, Little Red Riding Hood and more. The musical runs at Ford’s Theatre until May 22.

ous. The princely brothers were brave but bumbling in their utter lack of insight. Jack’s milky-white cow, played here by actor Tiziano D’Affuso rather than a plastic model, was a crowd favorite. His facial expressions and movements made every audience member want him as a pet just as much as Jack did.

Rachel Zampelli played the witch with heartless, imperious elegance and, as mother to Rapunzel, with a stabbing pinch of vulnerability. Following in the footsteps of the film’s witch, Meryl Streep, is no mean task, but Zampelli casts her own spell. See INTO THE WOODS, page 36

Winnie the Pooh March 29 – May 26, 2019 Based on the book by A.A. Milne Directed by Shirley Serotosky All performances held in Glen Echo Park Recommended for all ages

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A P R I L 2 0 1 9 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Some books that shine a light on justice By Dinah Rokach The District of Columbia has by far the highest number of lawyers per capita, compared to any state. Whether here or abroad, the ideal of justice — the evenhanded prosecution of the guilty and exoneration of the innocent — is a never-ending quest. You needn’t be a member of the bar to be enthralled by these fascinating accounts of crime and justice. Lincoln’s Last Trial: The Murder Case That Propelled Him to the Presi-

dency, by Dan Abrams and David Fisher, 320 pages, Hanover Square Press hardcover, 2018; paperback, May 2019 ABC News chief legal affairs anchor, attorney Dan Abrams, and co-author David Fisher have written a detailed account of the last criminal trial in which Abraham Lincoln served as counsel. Lincoln appeared in 2,000 cases during his two-decade long career. In the 1859 murder trial of Quinn Harrison in the courthouse of Springfield, Illinois, Lincoln

argued self-defense in representing his client, a young man who stabbed an acquaintance during a heated fight. Lincoln’s presentation, in this, his 27th murder case, exemplified the demeanor that brought renown to the future president — logical reasoning, deft analysis, thoughtful questioning, a reputation for honesty, clear and effective orations, homespun appearance, a passion for justice, respectful and friendly relationship with the opposing counsel, folksy wit and warm camaraderie

with his small-town neighbors. Lincoln’s Last Trial is engaging to read and an important addition to Lincolnia. The progress of the trial and the verdict will be of interest, no doubt, but the larger tableau presented is of great importance in adding to our understanding of the talents and skill of Abraham Lincoln. Conan Doyle for the Defense: The True Story of a Sensational British Murder, a

Into the Woods

Little Red Riding Hood meets her temporary demise, and then the wolf his more permanent end, from behind a screen in a scene that is part Indonesian shadow play and part animation. Cinderella’s mother appears to her as a face lighting up a tree trunk, and the witch, finally, vanishes in a fiery burst of sparks. In fact, the scenery overall — with its colorful fuzzy-looking vines, forest lit by gloom, and Rapunzel’s narrow tower — add immensely to the mystery and magic of the show. After the intermission, the mood of the play grows darker as the characters face the consequences of their wishes and actions — actions that were presented in Act

One as justified, but we may come to see differently in Act Two. If there’s a downside to this musical, it is that the first half abounds with life, humor and energy, while the second act, despite the attack of a towering shadowy giant, is more sluggish, a bit cluttered and quite melancholy. Maybe it’s just hard to give up the desire for a happy ending. Ford’s Theatre, which was extensively renovated in 2009, is beautiful and classic, surrounded by updated amenities including a gift shop, concessions stand and bathrooms. The theatre campus also includes the house where President Lincoln died and a state-of-the-art museum, exploring Lincoln, his assassination and American histo-

ry. (The museum, house and theatre tours are free, but reservations are recommended because of the popularity of the site.) Tickets for Into the Woods range from $20 to $83. Performances, which run through May 22, are Mon. through Sat. evenings at 7:30 p.m.; with matinees Fri. and Sat. at 2 p.m. Patrons 60 and over may purchase matinee tickets at a discount. Veterans’ tickets are half-price. The theatre offers a range of enhanced performances, including a free meet-andmingle event for audience members and performers at a nearby restaurant after a performance, and a sign-interpreted, a captioned, and a sensory-friendly performance. For more information, visit fords.org.

From page 35

Evocative set and effects I can only hope that director Peter Flynn and the design team had as much fun crafting the trickier elements of the plot as the audience did watching them play out. Birds, for example, are Cinderella’s guardian animal. They appear on stage directed by a silent, almost invisible human actor who causes them to bend and weave as a flock as they pluck lentils out of the ashes to allow Cinderella to attend the ball. Later, it is the expressive face of the human that conveys the birds’ thoughts and emotions to Cinderella and to us. In another breathtaking visual effect,

See BIBILOPHILE, page 38

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Say you saw it in the Beacon | Arts & Style

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — A P R I L 2 0 1 9

Virginia Ali From page 1 she said. “He met my family, we made a date and the rest is history.”

Let’s grow this hot dog stand The couple made history when, during their engagement, they signed a lease on a former silent movie theater-turned-pool hall on U Street. They invested $5,000 to open a hot dog restaurant called Ben’s Chili Bowl. “He wanted to be self-employed, and I thought it was a good idea,” Ali said. It turned out to be a great idea. The family business thrived for decades on U Street, becoming a national institution featured in films and documentaries. Stars like Duke Ellington, Miles Davis, Ella Fitzgerald, Barack Obama, Bill Cosby and countless other athletes and celebrities have had a meal at Ben’s Chili Bowl. “We’ve met a lot of people over the years, and we pride ourselves on giving everyone the warmth and welcome we give everyone else,” Ali said. “It doesn’t matter whether you’re the president or anyone else. We are all just people.” Ali remembers meeting Martin Luther

King Jr. in the late 1960s. His office was located on 14th and U, just a few blocks away. “Whenever he was in town, he’d come to the Chili Bowl,” Ali said. “We knew he was a great leader, a leader who preached nonviolence. We knew he was important.” After King’s assassination in 1968, grief and rage sparked riots in most American cities, including D.C. While most of U Street burned, Ben’s Chili Bowl remained open at the request of activist Stokely Carmichael. To protect the restaurant, Ben Ali scrawled “Soul Brother” in soap on the front window. It worked; Ben’s Chili Bowl survived. “We were here during the bad times, during the riots, during the drug epidemic, during the subway construction that closed the street. But we managed to hold on with the help of the community,” Ali said.

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With gratitude for the neighborhood in mind, Ali and her children formed the Ben’s Chili Bowl Foundation in 2011 with the mission to give back to the community. They invite D.C. schoolchildren to the restaurant for a free lunch and inspirational speech, a monthly event called “The

Water

Author Judith Viorst rhymes about aging in her new book, Nearing Ninety: And Other Comedies of Late Life. She will discuss her writing at Politics and Prose, 5015 Connecticut Ave. NW, Washington, D.C., on Tuesday, April 16, from 7 to 8 p.m. Seating is first come, first served at this free event. For more information, visit politics-prose.com.

Apr. 13

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BARBERSHOP SPRING CONCERT

The Fairfax Jubil-Aires perform a cappella favorites at their 63rd Annual Spring Show on Saturday, April 13, at 3 p.m. This barbershop group will share the stage at Edison High School, 5801 Franconia Rd., Alexandria, Va. with the Bella Nova Chorus and a variety of quartets. $20 for adult tickets, $5 for students/children. For more information or to buy tickets, visit fairfaxjubilaires.org.

the curb to greet a woman passing by in her car. “After we took pictures and hugged, she said, ‘I had a headache before you came and now it’s gone.’ That really made me feel good.” The Board of Directors of Seabury Resources for Aging will present Ali with the 2019 Leadership in Aging Award at a fundraising gala scheduled for Wednesday, May 15, from 6 to 8:30 p.m. at The District of Columbia Bar, 901 4th St. NW, Washington, D.C. Tickets are available at seaburyresources.org/lia. For more information, email events@seaburyresources.org or call (202) 414-6313.

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Self-Empowerment Experience.” So far, the foundation has given away more than $150,000 to 26 local groups. Ben Ali died 10 years ago, after 51 years of marriage to Virginia, and she and their three grown children carry on his legacy. A second Ben’s Chili Bowl debuted in Nationals Park in 2008, and a third opened in Reagan National Airport. Today, two more restaurants are located in Arlington, Va., and on H St. NW in D.C. Ali still enjoys greeting beloved customers at the original Ben’s Chili Bowl on U Street. Last month, she said, she walked out to

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Bibilophile From page 36 Quest for Justice, and the World’s Most Famous Detective Author, by Margalit Fox, 352 pages, Random House paperback, June 2019 Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, famous as the creator of the fictional detective Sherlock Holmes, was involved in righting a real-life miscarriage of justice. Conan Doyle for the Defense deftly relates the tale of a murder in the early twentieth century in Glasgow, Scotland, and the wrongful conviction of an immigrant outsider, Oscar Slater. The circumstances surrounding the ultimate vindication of the man wrongfully imprisoned at hard labor for 18 years — after being reprieved from execution — form the

A P R I L 2 0 1 9 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

basis of this intriguing book. Journalist Margalit Fox takes us back in time to describe the social milieu in which the events occurred. Conan Doyle for the Defense reminds us that individuals in every generation must come forward fearlessly to seek justice and right wrongs, though they may not find honor and praise in their lifetimes. Whether you read this book as a fascinating true-crime thriller or as an account of the failures of a flawed justice system, it will be well worth your time. The Third Degree: The Triple Murder That Shook Washington and Changed American Criminal Justice, by Scott D. Seligman, 224 pages, Potomac Books hardcover, 2018 A century-old D.C. murder trial is the basis of this fascinating account of crime

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and punishment. The suspect of a gruesome triple murder proceeds through the halls of American justice in the case of Ziang Sung Wan v. United States. This book addresses issues of racism against minority defendants, coercive police tactics (the third degree) and forced confessions, the morality of the death penalty, and the importance of skilled legal representation from trial through the appellate process. The Supreme Court, in its unanimous decision, added another building block to the edifice that would be crowned by the Miranda decision in our day. The sevenyear saga from the commission of the crimes to the legal resolution is subject still to varying interpretations. Seligman, a historian and writer, presents the story in lucid prose unencumbered by legalisms. Residents of D.C. will enjoy descriptions of places and neighborhoods — the ghosts of some are still discernible a century later. Unexampled Courage: The Blinding of Sgt. Isaac Woodard and the Awakening of President Harry S. Truman and Judge J. Waties Waring, by Richard Gergel, 336 pages, Sarah Crichton Books hardcover, 2019 U.S. District Court Judge Richard Gergel has written an account of a pivotal incident in the struggle for civil rights that, unlike Rosa Parks and the Montgomery bus boycott, has largely been forgotten. On Feb. 12, 1946, African American Ser-

geant Isaac Woodard was beaten and blinded by the white police chief of Batesburg, S.C. The decorated World War II veteran, en route home by Greyhound bus hours after being discharged from the U.S. Army, had been taken into custody in uniform. The racist atmosphere of Jim Crow restrictions and frenzied lynch mobs had confronted black veterans as they demobilized and returned to their Southern homes. At the time, the blinding of Sergeant Woodard became a cause around which civil rights activists coalesced through the media and into the public consciousness. Among those moved by the horrific story was President Harry Truman. Nonetheless, the police chief was acquitted. Judge Waties Waring presided at the jury trial, and his rulings in subsequent civil rights cases were powerful. The executive actions of President Truman in establishing a civil rights commission and desegregating the armed forces — including schools on military bases in the South — made a meaningful difference. His Justice Department’s filing of amicus briefs in support of private NAACP court actions to end discrimination and enforce the Fourteenth Amendment were pivotal. Unexampled Courage follows the incremental judicial decisions culminating in the Brown desegregation ruling by a unanimous Supreme Court. The denial of justice to one individual ignited the flame of justice for all.

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Arts & Style

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — A P R I L 2 0 1 9

Being judged on age, rather than merit My boyhood friend Roger has a resume retirement date for judges. No wiggle room. No appeal. that’s as gold-plated as gold-plated gets. What’s the rationale behind Honor student in high that mandatory retirement school (please don’t ask if I age? The same tired arguwas, too). Ditto in college (I ments I’ve been hearing since I told you not to ask). First in was knee-high to a Perry his class in law school. PracMason re-run. ticed law at a big firm for Tiredness Number One: about 20 years. No judge is as good at 76 as he Then Roger was appointed used to be. a judge in New York State. He From Roger: “I’m better at has been hearing cases — and tolerating overwrought 76 than I used to be. I have HOW I SEE IT more experience. I have more attorneys — ever since. practice. That’s why they call it But in a couple of weeks, By Bob Levey Roger will be 76 years old. That means he must retire by the end of 2019, by state law. I ran into Roger at a party recently. He was his usual bubbly self. But when I asked him about his mandatory retirement, it was as if a cloud had formed over his almost-bald head. “I don’t want to retire. I don’t need to retire. I’m not ready to retire,” he told me, with a grimace. “I want to retire when I can no longer do what I’ve done. And I will know when that day has arrived better than anyone else.” However, the geniuses in the New York legislature don’t want to hear any of that. They arbitrarily set 76 as the mandatory

practicing law.” Tiredness Number Two: Roger and his age mates need to clear out so they can give younger judges a chance. From Roger: “Those judges will get a chance soon enough, after they attend our funerals! What this really means is that governors want the chance to nominate their political supporters.” Tiredness Number Three: Forcing Roger off the bench will save the state money. From Roger: “In fact, it may cost the state money. Last year, I heard more cases than any judge on my court. Will a younger judge hear as many? If not, there will need to be two of him. That’s more

salary, not less.” Tiredness Number Four: New judges will be less set in their ways, and more likely to rule impartially. From Roger: “Complete nonsense. To be a good judge, I have to keep reading and keep learning new laws. If I had been a bad judge, some appeals court would have had me for lunch. Hasn’t happened.”

Tiredness Number Five: Roger is a white male, and justice should be administered by more people of many colors and both sexes. From Roger: “I agree with that. But that process is happening steadily anyway. I don’t judge because I’m white and male. I See BOB LEVEY, page 41

ANSWERS TO CROSSWORD

FROM PAGE 40 ANSWERS TO SCRABBLE

A D O R E

R O T O R

T R I B E

C H I S

M I A T A

A I R O F

T A B A R R B E A

Y M C A N A T R R K I R Y A A R F R O O O W T

A V O C A T I O A N S S I A N C O S

O D D J O B

R E L A X L S D S K I P S

B R E R R E E P L A U C L I O D A A N T E E D S

R A I S I N

C O S E C

Y A N U G E K E W

R E D S M O A U D U S L A D K U I D L I L O

O V U L E

W E E D

D R E S S

S T A T E

ANSWERS TO JUMBLE Jumbles: STUFF DAISY TRIVIA KENNEL Answer: They couldn’t figure out why the woman had passed out … they didn’t have the — FAINTEST IDEA

Arts & Style | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

A P R I L 2 0 1 9 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Crossword Puzzle Daily crosswords can be found on our website: www.TheBeaconNewspapers.com Click on Puzzles Plus Good Names 1

ByStephen StephenSherr Sherr

Across 1. Creative 5. A Arbitrary abbrev. for a complex investing strategy 8. It is quite complimentary to red 12. Where to get a breath of frosh air 13. Disqualified, on The Price is Right 14. Blusher 15. Related to drums, lobes, and canals 16. Businessman James, known as “The Pineapple King” 17. Slanty 18. Good names for catburglars 21. Before, read from either direction 22. Foe of Mr. Clean 23. Place into a third-person trust 27. Go at medium speed (to an equestrian) 28. Prefix with -demic and -center 29. Ironically, she was created during the day-time 30. Good names for the accounts receivable department 34. MXXX divided by X 35. It joined the Big-10 in 1912 36. Jell-O shaper 37. Good names for bears 42. “How was ___ know?” 43. Stubborn animal 44. Letters for debt-letters 45. African vacation 47. South Dallas (briefly) 48. HBO lack 51. Good names for straight-talkers 54. Implicit prohibition 57. Use quotes 58. It could be bounced off someone 59. Part of a detour sign 60. Newspaper page 61. Santa’s organizing tool 62. Outscore 63. Snake’s comment 64. Run out of checkers Down 1. Be quite fond of

46 51

Jumble answers on p. 39.

Scrabble answers on p. 39.

2. Helicopter blade 3. Descendants of any one of Jacob’s sons 4. Disco song with a Guinness record 44,000 simultaneous dancers 5. Hobbies 6. Take some deep breaths 7. ___ Rabbit 8. Opposite of sin (to a mathematician) 9. “Ew, gross” 10. Stay alive 11. Category of dog tricks 13. Bond-film henchman (or a type of 5 Across) 14. Trail mix ingredient 19. Drug kop 20. Best way to start making “reparations” 24. Improve the outfield 25. Flower’s seed 26. Remove unwanted plants 27. Total Recordable Injury Rate (acronym) 28. Clarifies 30. Mazda mini 31. Have an ___ superiority 32. Rumored inspiration for Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds 33. Advanced degree in singing or instrumentation 34. Letters in Greek tic-tac-toe 38. Temperate plant, sometimes called “old man’s pepper” 39. 30% of Earth’s surface 40. Like a library book 41. “___ Lang Syne” 46. In the scheming phase 47. Avoids school 48. Sound engineer’s responsibility 49. Finish preparing the Caesar salad 50. Governor’s constituency 52. Sgts. and cpls. 53. If looks could ___... 54. Typewriter key with jarring impact 55. “... all men ___ created equal” 56. Useless piece on a topless beach

Answers on page 39.

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Arts & Style

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — A P R I L 2 0 1 9

Bob Levey From page 39 judge because I know the law. So, I hope, would any future judge.” Tiredness Number Six: If there’s no retirement age, judges could try to sit even when they’re 100. Not good for justice. From Roger: “There’s a review board that can remove any judge if he can’t do the work anymore. Retirement should depend on that process, not on an arbitrary age.”

BEACON BITS

Apr. 17

CASUAL SYMPHONY CONCERT

And the final Tiredness, Number Seven: Because of mandatory retirement, Roger can soon do all those fun things he has always wanted to do. Snorkeling! Shuffleboard! From Roger: “Being a judge is what I have always wanted to do. I don’t have a secret wish list. Shuffleboard would kill me faster than hearing cases.” So, what’s the answer to Roger’s awkward position? The answer that many other industries, and many other courts,

already have in place. Instead of being forced to go from 60 to zero in the blink of an eye, Roger (and all 76-year-old judges) should be offered stepdown retirements. Maybe 50 percent of their usual caseload the first year. Maybe 30 percent the year after that. Maybe less. Maybe more. Maybe Roger would accept a pay cut. Maybe he’d accept a smaller set of chambers. Maybe he’d give up a fulltime law clerk.

It’s all negotiable. It’s all possible. Under phased-in retirement, Roger’s experience would still be available to the public. At the same time, governors could appoint their supporters, minorities could get greater representation — and perfectly capable 76-year-olds wouldn’t be scratching their nearly bald heads, wondering why they are being treated like the problem instead of like the solution. Bob Levey is a national award-winning columnist.

ONE BIG HAPPY By Rick Detorie

The National Symphony Orchestra (NSO) returns to The Anthem, 901 Wharf St. SW, Washington, D.C., on Wednesday, April 17, at 8 p.m., to kick off a series of low-priced community concerts. NSO musicians will dress casually and introduce each program, including Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony. Full bar and food are available to purchase. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Tickets ($15, $25, $30) are available at the Anthem Box Office, theanthemdc.com or 1-877-4FLY-TIX.

Apr. 1+

NONCREDIT CLASSES

Registration opens April 1 for the summer session of Montgomery College’s Workforce Development & Continuing Education. Noncredit classes are available at convenient locations throughout Montgomery County. Maryland residents 60+ are eligible for a tuition waiver and pay the class fee only. For more information, call (240) 567-5188 or visit www.montgomerycollege.edu/wdce.

BEACON BITS

Apr. 13

POTOMAC RIVER CLEANUP Rock Creek Conservancy needs volunteers and site leaders for the 11th Annual Rock Creek Extreme Cleanup on Saturday, April

13, at various locations along the Potomac River in Maryland and D.C. Most events take place from 10 a.m. to noon. For more information or to register, email volunteer@RockCreekConservancy.org or visit bit.ly/ExtremeCleanup2019.

Apr. 13

GUITAR POETRY Internationally acclaimed guitarist and songwriter Hiroya Tsukamoto takes the stage at Arts Barn, 311 Kent Square Rd.,

Gaithersburg, Md., on Saturday, April 13, at 8 p.m. Described as “cinematic guitar poetry,” his peaceful technique draws on the rich history of Japanese folk music. To purchase tickets ($25 for adults, $15 for 18 and under), visit artsonthegreen.ticketfly.com.

Apr. 2+

GRAND HOTEL Set in 1928 Berlin, Grand Hotel celebrates the decadence of the time period, as eclectic guests and hotel staff mix and mingle.

The musical runs April 2 through May 19 at the Signature Theatre, 400 Campbell Ave., Arlington, Va. Tickets start at $40. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit sigtheatre.org.

WB419

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CLASSIFIEDS 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; Personals; Personal Services; Vacation Opportunities; and Wanted. For submission guidelines and deadlines, see the box on page 43. 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.

Business and Employment Opportunities PAID RESEARCH STUDY: Participants needed for NIH-funded hearing experiments conducted at the University of Maryland, College Park. Seeking people ages 65-80 with normal hearing or hearing loss. English must be your first language. The study evaluates perception of words, sentences, and tones. Participation time: 6-8 hrs, scheduled in visits of 1-2 hours; $12.00/hr, Total compensation for completing the study is ~$75$90. Contact the Hearing Research Lab (301405-7454; hearingresearch@umd.edu).

Caregivers A HOME HEALTHCARE- Experienced nurses, CNA, GNA are available 24/7. Cooking, companionship, personal care, housekeeping, driving. Full/Part-time or live-in. Flat rate for for live-in care. 15 years’ experience. 240-533-6599 QUALITY ELDERLY CARE 11+ yrs exp. providing excellent care. Eg. Meal prep, run errands, appt mgmt, excellent comm, etc. YOUR LOVED ONE DESERVES IT! Contact: Monica, 301.646.2132 / monica4elderlycare@gmail.com *Excellent references upon request.* 5147542110836326 CHEVY CHASE HOME CARE — reliable certified caregivers at time of illness, infirmity, loneliness. Personal assistance, ALL AGES, 4- to 24-hour shifts, homes, hospitals, nursing homes. MD, DC, No. VA. Tel.: 202-374-1240. www.ChChHomecare.com.

Computer Services COMPUTER LESSONS — Personal Computer training in your home at your convenience. Email, Internet, Search, Digital photos, Google, General computer use, MS Word, Excel, Outlook, Windows PC, Mac. Troubleshoot PC issues. Setup new computers, printers, internet. Setup and train on all consumer electronics — Smartphone, Smart TV, Tablet, Digital cameras, Alexa. Gentle & patient teacher using plain English. Since 1996. Call David, 301-980-5840. COMPUTERTUTOR. PROBLEM WITH YOUR PC/MAC OR NETWORK? Computer Systems Engineer will come to you with help. Call David G. Computer Services at 301-642-4526.

Financial GOT AN OLDER CAR, VAN OR SUV? Do the humane thing. Donate it to the Humane Society. Call 1-844-230-2952.

A P R I L 2 0 1 9 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

For Sale/Rent: Real Estate

Miscellaneous

Wanted

LEISURE WORLD® — $179,900. 2 BR 2 FB “F” in the GREENS. New paint and carpet, Sunny enclosed balcony. 1120 sq ft., Stan Mofffson, Weichert, Realtors, 301-928-3463.

ENJOY 100% GUARANTEED, DELIVERED to-the-door Omaha Steaks! Save 75% plus get 4 more Burgers & 4 more Kielbasa FREE! Order The Family Gourmet Buffet — ONLY $49.99. Call 1-844-302-3754, mention code 51689JCT or visit www.omahasteaks.com.

TURN YOUR SILVER AND OLD GOLD jewelry into cash. Gold 4 Good (8241 Georgia Ave., Suite 100, Silver Spring, MD 20910) buys gold and silver jewelry, including broken pieces, all sterling silver and silver flatware, gold watches and gold and silver coins. I will come to your house and give you a free evaluation of what I can pay. If you decide to sell, I can buy your items at that time, but there is no obligation. Licensed with both Maryland and Montgomery County (lic. #2327). Call Bob, (240) 938-9694. Gold 4 Good pays an additional 5 percent to all sellers who are military veterans (or spouses of veterans). Gold 4 Good is a Maryland licensed precious metals dealership, not a pawnshop or private home-based business.

LEISURE WORLD® — $114,000. 2 BR 1 FB “CALVERT” model coop. New paint and carpet, New appliances, Enclosed Balcony, 1035 sq. ft., Stan Moffson, Weichert Realtors, 301-928-3463. LEISURE WORLD® — $187,654. 2 BR 2 FB “F” with GARAGE in GREENS. New Paint and Carpet, View of pond from the Enclosed Balcony, Move in ready, 1120 sq ft, Stan Moffson, Weichert, Realtors, 301-928-3463. LEISURE WORLD® — $227,000. 2 BR 2 FB “C” in TURNBERRY. Updated kitchen, new flooring, Golf Course view from Enclosed Balcony, 1093 sq ft, Stan Moffson, Weichert, Realtors, 301-928-3463. LEISURE WORLD® — $445,000. 2 BR + Den, 2 FB + GARAGE, “K” in “OVERLOOK”, Fantastic View from the HUGH Enclosed Sunroom. 1520 Sq Ft., Stan Moffson, Weichert Realtors, 301-928-3463. LEISURE WORLD® — $149,500. 2 BR 2 FB “E” in the GREENS. Updated kitchen, new carpet, enclosed balcony, 980 sq ft., Stan Moffson, Weichert, Realtors, 301-928-3463. LARGE STUDIO FOR RENT, 3100 Connecticut Ave., NW, full foyer, kitchen, bath, large main room and large closet. $1,500 a month, includes all utilities and cable; year’s lease required. Call: 202-332-5273. IF YOU’RE LOOKING TO TAKE THE LEAP to a retirement community, try our newly announced Real Estate Partnership: Sue Heyman, Rick Winkler, and Sudha Baxter. Rely on our combined strengths: Top Weichert Producers, plus backgrounds in Teaching, Tax, and Business. We are located at the Leisure World Plaza Weichert Office and have personal knowledge of the Community from the investor and resident perspective. We will take you on a tour of the Community, show you floor plans, discuss campus amenities & offer how best to coordinate your move. We will set up an automated search for you, preview units, and contact you to arrange a showing when there is a match. We also offer exceptional service selling your current home. Call for your free Community booklet. You can see our current listings in this issue. Office 301-681-0550, Sue 301-580-5556, Rick 301-404-3105, Sudha 202-368-8536.

PRESCHOOL: Enrolling for Sept. Morning preschool classes for your grandchild. Ages 2, 3, + 4. Over 60 years @same Silver Spring location. Call Mary (301) 593-2308.

Personal Services NEED CASH? DOWNSIZING? Professional online seller with 100% positive feedback will sell your extra items - clothing, jewelry, dishes, art, furniture, etc. Free consultation. I will determine the best online markets to sell your items, photograph and list everything, and you get paid when it sells! For friendly service, please contact Julia at 571-294-8401 or at juliawilk@aol.com. PIANO LESSONS for all ages, all levels. Masters in Music Ed, many years exp. Olney area only. Leave a call back Number: 301-598-7234. HOUSE CLEANING SERVICE, More than 10 years satisfied customers, free estimate. Call Vio, 301-706-6317 SELL YOUR SILVER AND OLD GOLD JEWELRY. Gold 4 Good (8241 Georgia Ave., Suite 100, Silver Spring, MD 20910) buys gold and silver jewelry, including broken pieces, all sterling silver and silver flatware, gold watches and gold and silver coins. I will come to your house and give you a free evaluation of what I can pay. If you decide to sell, I can buy your items at that time, but there is no obligation. Licensed with both Maryland and Montgomery County (lic. #2327). Call Bob, (240) 938-9694. Gold 4 Good pays an additional 5 percent to all military veterans (and their spouses). Gold 4 Good is a Maryland licensed precious metals dealership, not a pawnshop or private home-based business. ESTATE SALES & LIQUIDATIONS - Our company specializes in helping families in the DMV to downsize and transition to their new living situations. We provide home clear outs, estate/moving sales and home organization. Fairfax Estate Sales & ThriftFrog Valet - (703) 609-3535. Call for your FREE Consultation. www.fairfaxestatesales.com

TV/Cable

Health 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. DENTAL INSURANCE. Call Physicians Mutual Insurance Company for details. Not just a discount plan, real coverage for 350 procedures. 844366-1003 or http://www.dental50plus.com/320 Ad# 6118. ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A NATURAL Health Solution for Your Health Problems? Heal your body the natural way! Try our organic pink Fijian Ginger and organic Fijian Turmeric. 100% pure, safe and effective healing products from Wakaya Island. No chemicals, no pesticides, no preservatives, no additives. Experience how our products help to soothe your aching pains and detox your digestive system. Https://naturalhealthyliving.mywakaya.com.

Home/Handyman Services COMPLETE TILE GROUT and Caulk Restoration. Mold and mildew sanitizing. Removal of existing grout and caulk. Re-grout with white mildew resistant grout. Caulk with mildew resistant white caulk. Beaching for allergens. $250.00 value now $160.00. Decorative Coatings Refinishing LLC. 571-235-1682.

Legal Services SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY? Up to $2,671/mo. (Based on paid-in amount.) Free evaluation! Call Bill Gordon & Associates. 1866-970-0779. Mail: 2420 N St NW, Washington, D.C. Office: Broward Co. FL., member TX/NM Bar.

LADY WHO LIKES CHINA and other pretty things would like to buy yours. Favorites include Herend, Meissen, Royal Copenhagen, Shelley and Villeroy & Boch. Some Lenox and Johnson Brothers. I love English bone china cups and saucers. Baccarat and Lalique too. Paintings and pottery. I’ve collected antique Christmas and Halloween for thirty years and am always looking to add to my collection. Sterling and jewelry. MD license no. 2753. Call, 301-785-1129. WANTED: OLDER VIOLINS, GUITARS, BANJOS, MANDOLINS, UKULELES, ETC. Musician/collector will pay cash for older string instruments. Jack (301) 279-2158. CASH FOR JEWELRY: Buying jewelry, diamonds, gold, platinum, silver, watches, coins, flatware, etc. Ask for Tom. Call anytime, 301654-8678 (Reg. 883). TOP PRICES PAID for fine antiques, artwork and high quality decorative items including decorated crocks and jugs, rare antique clocks, music boxes, unusual lamps, slot machines and great old toys and dolls to name a few. I am 66 years old with over 40 years in the antique business, well educated and financially capable. Why pay expensive auction house, estate sale, or consignment store commissions when you can get a fair upfront price for your pieces immediately? If you have something unusual and interesting, rare and valuable and are prepared to sell it I would like to speak with you. Please call Jake Lenihan 301 279 8834. No calls after 7 pm please. Thank you. CASH FOR RECORDS AND CDS. Best price guaranteed. Free appraisals. All types of music {33, 45, 78 & CDs.} Also buying turntables and stereo equipment. Will make house calls. {Can help with donations} Call or text Steve at 301646-5403.

DIRECTV. CALL AND SWITCH NOW — Get NFL Sunday Ticket for FREE! Every Game. Every Sunday. CHOICE- All-Included Package. Over 185 Channels. $60/month (for 12 Months.) CALL 1- 888-572-4953.

BUYING VINYL RECORDS from 1950 through 1985. Jazz, Rock-n-Roll, Soul, Rhythm & Blues, Reggae and Disco. 33 1/3 LPs, 45s or 78s, Larger collections of at least 100 items wanted. Please call John, 301-596-6201.

DISH Network. 190+ CHANNELS. FREE Install. FREE Hopper HD-DVR. $49.99/month (24 months) Add High Speed Internet - $14.95 (where avail.) CALL Today & SAVE 25%! 1-844560-5837.

BUYING OLD STEREO/AUDIO Components from 1930’s - 1980 Speakers, Receivers, Amplifiers, Turntables, etc. working or not, also interested in parts. (540) 999-1486.

SPECTRUM TRIPLE PLAY! TV, Internet & Voice for $29.99 ea. 60 MB per second speed. No contract or commitment. More Channels. Faster Internet. Unlimited Voice. Call 1-888-366-7573.

Wanted CASH FOR ESTATES; moving, etc. I buy a wide range of items. Buy out/clean up. TheAtticLLC.com Gary Roman 301-520-0755. BUYING VINYL RECORDS from 1950 through 1985. Jazz, Rock-n-Roll, Soul, Rhythm & Blues, Reggae and Disco. 33 1/3 LPs, 45s or 78s, Larger collections of at least 100 items wanted. Please call John, 301-596-6201. WE PAY CASH FOR ANTIQUE FURNITURE, quality used furniture, early American art, pottery, silver, glassware, paintings, etc. Single items to entire estates. Call Reggie or Phyllis at DC 202-726-4427, MD 301-332-4697. SEEKING FULL/SEALED BOTTLES of Vintage Bourbon and Rye. Do you have full/sealed vintage bottles of bourbon or rye collecting dust in your cabinet? Do any of your bottles have an old red or green tax strip? Call Alex, 443-223-7669. BUYING MILITARY MEMORABILIA WW2, WW1, Civil War uniforms, weapons, photos and items associated with US, German, Japanese or items of other Military History. DAVE, 240-464-0958.

$$$ CASH $$$ FOR MILITARY USMC ARMY USAF USN ITEMS - Buying Military Uniforms, Patches, Medals, Insignia, Flight Jackets, Weapons etc. from the Civil War through Vietnam. Especially seeking U.S. Army Air Corps, USMC, Airborne and German/Japanese/Italian items from WWII. Call or Text Dan at 202-8413062 or email MILITBUFF@AOL.COM. BUYING ESTATES jewelry, watches, old coins, silver, gold, art, old toys, trains, comic books, fountain pens, baseball cards, memorabilia, golf clubs, military, firearms, knives, swords, antique photos, books, autographs, etc. Please call Tom 240-476-3441. ESTATE LIQUIDATION/ANTIQUES & COLLECTIBLES: One call solves it all when you hire us to handle your estate liquidation, down-sizing and/or home cleanout. We sell your treasures, take care of charitable donations and provide junk removal. We also purchase partial estate contents/collections. Always buying antiques, jewelry, fine art, vintage toys, collectibles, advertising, sports memorabilia, military items, rare books, Mid Century Modern furniture, vinyl records collections and more. Based in Silver Spring, we serve Montgomery County, Howard County, Baltimore County, Washington D.C., NOVA and beyond. No home, barn or warehouse is too packed for us! Friendly, conscientious staff. Call Chris on cell (202) 731-9447. www.OrionsAttic.com.

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — A P R I L 2 0 1 9

Wanted COLLECTOR BUYING MILITARY ITEMS: Helmets, weapons, knives, swords, web gear, uniforms, etc. from all wars & countries. Also Lionel Trains, & slots/coin operated machines. Will pay top prices. Discreet consultations. Call Fred, 301-910-0783.

Letters to editor From page 2 2019, “Not in our family”] on a complex and emotionally charged topic, sensitively and nonjudgmentally explored. My Dad wouldn’t miss an “All in the Family” episode, so you reawakened many memories of our family watching it with deep groans as well as laughter! Let’s keep the vital conversation going! Jay Kenney Rockville, Md. Dear Editor: Thank you for your measured, wise “From the Publisher” editorial in the March 2019 issue of The Beacon. Like blind men feeling the elephant, many have focused on one narrow aspect of past bad behavior revealed: How bad was it? When did it occur? Should there be consequences? How mild or harsh should they be? Is the punishment even-handed or prejudiced? Are there political or social considerations that should affect our answers? But yours is the first article I’ve read that explains in detail the need to forgive our imperfections to sustain the human fami-

Say you saw it in the Beacon

Thanks for reading the Beacon! ly. I felt a great sense of relief and calm when I finished reading it, a voice telling me, “Of course, that is how it should be.” A. Edelson Silver Spring, Md. Dear Editor: Many thanks for your excellent publication and for the information you provide for all your readers. I would like to make a suggestion that may or may not be practical. Has there ever been a consideration to divide the Beacon into several pullout sections? Maura A. Biondo Rockville, Md. Editor responds: Thank you for your suggestion. We can appreciate how that could be helpful, but to keep our printing costs reasonable, we are unable to do that. Those sections would have to be printed separately then collated, which would significantly increase our costs. We can, however, designate the center pages of each issue as a single pull-out section. This month we have such a section, on the topic of Housing & Home Care Options. We hope you will read and hold onto that section if you have need for the information.

WAY TO PLACE CLASSIFIED ADS All classified ads must be submitted and paid for online, via our website, www.thebeaconnewspapers.com/classifieds Deadlines and Payments: To appear in the next issue, your ad text and payment must be entered by the 5th of the preceding month (for Baltimore and Howard County editions); by the 20th (for Washington and Richmond editions). Cost will be based on the number of characters and spaces in your ad: • $25 for 1-250 • $35 for 251-500. • $50 for 501-750 (maximum length). The website will calculate this 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 place your classified ad, visit www.thebeaconnewspapers.com/classifieds BEACON BITS

Ongoing

KNITTING AT THE PORTRAIT GALLERY

Bring your needles and join a group of knitters every Thursday and Saturday in the beautiful atrium of the National Portrait Gallery from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. It’s fun, not a class, and knitters are willing to offer help to others. The museum is located at 8th St NW & F St NW, Washington, DC. For more information, visit Meetup.com and Ravelry.com; search for DC Threads.

Apr. 15

LIVE MUSIC FROM ZIMBABWE

Musicians from Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe will perform Afro-fusion music in a lively concert. The free performance at noon on Monday, April 15, is at The American Folklife Center (AFC) at the Library of Congress in the Coolidge Auditorium on the ground floor of the Thomas Jefferson Building, 10 First St. S.E., Washington, D.C. For more information, call Thea Austen, (202) 707-1743 or email taus@loc.gov.

ADVERTISERS IN THIS ISSUE Clinical Studies Calorie Restriction Study..............17 Hearing Research Study................17 Pneumococcal Vaccine Study .......16 RSV Vaccine Study.......................16

Computer/ Technology Help TechMedic4u...................................5

Dental Services Friedman, Stephen, DDS ..............18 Oh, Judy, DDS ..............................15

Employment Career Gateway.............................23 JCA Employment Expo ...........28-29

Events BL Small Business Expo ..............27 Brooke Grove ..........................19, 44 GROWS ........................................10 Montessori Aging Workshop ........13

Financial/Insurance Services Chesapeake Senior Benefits .........13 Children’s National Hospital.........23 Greenhouse H Street .....................25 Mutual of Omaha ..........................27

Funeral Services Going Home Cremation................38

Government Services DC Dept of Insurance ...................10 DC Office on Aging ................20-21 DOEE............................................37

Montgomery County Aging and Disability Services .................3, 14

Home Health Care/Companion Services Attenda Home Care . . . . . . . . . .B-5 Best Senior Care . . . . . .B-13, B-15 Bright Hope Home Care . . . . . . . .6 Debra Levy Eldercare . . . . . . . .B-6 JSSA Hospice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Options for Senior America ..........34 Premier Homecare ..........................9

Housing Aged Woman’s Home Of Georgetown.............................6 Alfredhouse...................................15 Armed Forces Retirement Home.........................6 Ashby Ponds ...............1, B-13, B-19 Brooke Grove Retirement Village ....19, 44, B-10, B-16, B-17 Chesterbrook Residences .....................B-6, B-19 Chevy Chase House ..........B-2, B-17 Churchill Senior Living ................15 Covenant Village.............B-10, B-18 Culpepper Garden .....................B-14 Emerson House ...............B-10, B-18 Falcons Landing .............B-10, B-20 Five Star Premier Residences .......13 Friendship Terrace.............B-9, B-17 Gardens of Traville, The..............B-2 Greenspring...................1, B-4, B-13 Hillside Apartment Homes ...........14 Homecrest House..............B-3, B-16 Homewood at Frederick............B-14

Kensington Park................B-5, B-16 Landing of Silver Spring, The.....B-3 Modern at Art Place, The ................4 Overture Fair Ridge ....................B-8 Plaza West ...................................B-8 Potomac Place .............................B-3 Quantum Property Mgmt.............B-18 R Homes Communities ....................33 Riderwood.....................1, B-7, B-13 Sommerset Retirement......B-7, B-15 Springvale Terrace ............B-9, B-19 Sylvestry, The............................B-14 Victory Housing................B-4, B-15 Vinson Hall .................................B-4 Waltonwood Ashburn........B-7, B-12

Legal Services Farr Law Firm ...............................25 Law Offices of Lee Holdmann .....25 Law Offices of Paul Riekhof ........26

Medical/Health Arya Wellness Center......................9 Health For Life Dispensary...........14 I Hate Knee Pain ...........................11 Lesner Hearing..............................15 Medical Eye Center ......................16 Nexus Montgomery ........................8 Noxicare........................................11 Silver Spring Medical Center .......18

Miscellaneous Misler Adult Day Center...............32 Seabury Resources..............B-8, B-9

Real Estate Long & Foster/ Eric Stewart..........................24, 39 Weichert/Sue Heyman ..................18

Retail/Pawn/Auction Maryland Estate Treasure .............24 Perfect Sleep Chair .......................12 Quinn’s Auction Galleries .............19 SAS Shoes.......................................6

Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation Brooke Grove ............................B-16 Cadia Healthcare...........................12 Manor Care Health Services...........8

Subscriptions Beacon Newspaper........................41 Washington Jewish Week..............32

Theatre/ Entertainment Adventure Theatre.........................35 City of Rockville Mansion............34 Ford’s Theatre................................37 F. Scott Fitzgerald Theatre ............37 Kennedy Center ............................36 Senior Zone...................................38 Toby’s Dinner Theatre ...................35 US Air Force Band........................36

Tour & Travel Eyre Travel ....................................31 Festive Holidays ............................33 Global Wanderer Travel ................33 Martinsburg, WV Travel ...............31 Shillelaghs.....................................31

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A P R I L 2 0 1 9 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

april-may 2019

UPCOMING SEMINARS & EVENTS at Brooke Grove retirement village

As experts in senior care and memory support, Brooke Grove Retirement Village is pleased to offer seminars and events that promote physical, spiritual and mental well-being. All seminars and events will be held at Brooke Grove Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, located at 18131 Slade School Road on the Brooke Grove Retirement Village campus, unless otherwise noted. Please register with Toni Davis at 301-388-7209 or tdavis@bgf.org. Parkinson’s pointers LIVESTREAM SEMINAR: “The Abc s of dbs”

living well seminar: “Spring Clean Your Diet”

THURSDAY, APRIL 4 • 6:30-8 P.M.

Would you like to know more about how you can optimize your day-to-day food choices in order to positively impact your health? If so, this seminar is for you! Explore meal planning, diet modifications and food labeling tips that will help you look and feel your best.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 17 • 1-2:15 P.M.

With 20 years of experience in Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) and 30 years of Parkinson’s research in his arsenal, neurosurgeon Zachary Levine, MD, is a leader and innovator in the neuromodulation/DBS community worldwide. During this seminar, he’ll share his expertise on the past, present and future of DBS as well as procedure eligibility, new technology and more. Presented in partnership with the Parkinson Foundation.

Preceded by complimentary lunch at 12:30 p.m.

smooth move seminar: “TOO MUCH STUFF: IT ISN’T THE MOVE, IT’S THE STUFF!” TUESDAY, MAY 7 10:30 A.M.-12 P.M. During this seminar, you’ll gain tips and ideas for downsizing by efficiently sorting through the contents of your home. A simple decision-making model will help you decide what to gift, sell, donate, recycle or throw away. Reservations are requested by May 5. Check-in begins and hors d’oeuvres served at 10 a.m.

FREE. Register by April 15.

Healthy Living class: “Chair yoga”

caregiver connection: “A Caregiver Retreat” TUESDAY, APRIL 16 • 1-4 P.M. Experience an hour of relaxation, far away from the stresses of caregiving! You’re invited to the spa and salon in Brooke Grove’s new rehab center, where you’ll be treated to hand and seated massages, a manicure/pedicure and other opportunities for pampering.

April 24 through June 5 MONDAYS & WEDNESDAYS 9:45-10:30 A.M. Chair yoga can improve mobility, increase energy, boost physical function and otherwise enrich your life! Take the road toward better health with this class that is ideal for seniors or those with stiffness or movement limitations.

18100 Slade School Road Sandy Spring, MD 20860

301-260-2320 · www.bgf.org

Six-week Session Fee: $30 Reservations are requested by April 21.

Appointments are available from 1-4 p.m. FREE. RSVP by April 14.

Independent living

assisted living

rehabilitation

long-term care

memory support