April 2020 | Baltimore Beacon by The Beacon Newspapers

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I N S I D E … BALTIMORE BEACON — APRIL 2020

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Clutter and hoarding: not the same thing By Margaret Foster and Harvard Women’s Health Watch As a professional organizer in Baltimore, Amy Bloom, founder of Let Your Space Bloom LLC, said that accumulation of possessions is a natural part of life. “There are a lot of people who live with a lot of clutter. Even if you’re very cognizant of editing your stuff, if you’re in a space for a long time, you’re going to accumulate a lot of clutter,” said Bloom, who works with empty nesters who are preparing to sell their houses. It can feel overwhelming to own too much. “Clutter is pervasive, physically and mentally,” she said. But sometimes a person’s accumulation of stuff grows to the point that it signifies a deeper problem. Since Bloom started her organization company in 2016, she has encountered about a dozen people who meet the definition of a hoarder. Hoarding disorder, according to the American Psychological association, is “a persistent difficulty getting rid of or parting with possessions.” It’s a widespread problem that affects between 2% and 6% of the population.

What’s behind hoarding? Television shows such as “Hoarders” and “Hoarding: Buried Alive” increased public awareness of the issue by presenting a vivid picture of hoarding to millions of viewers. But TV shows — particularly those that

emphasize cleanup services rather than therapy — can present a distorted picture of the serious work involved. Cleanup alone is almost never a long-term solution. It’s unclear where compulsive hoarding comes from; research has shown that it isn’t correlated with material or emotional deprivation earlier in life. Psychologists have identified a pattern of cognitive and emotional difficulties that underlie hoarding symptoms. These are as follows: • Indecisiveness and fear of making mistakes. By never choosing to throw anything out and constantly accumulating things “just in case,” the hoarder tries to avoid making wrong decisions or having regrets. • Difficulty categorizing. A person who has a hard time sorting objects into categories can find it difficult to decide which drawer something belongs in. For a person who has difficulty distinguishing between valuable and worthless items, keeping old supermarket flyers may seem as sensible as keeping last year’s tax return. • Concerns about memory. A hoarder may have unjustified doubts about the reliability of her memory and therefore avoid putting things away for fear of not being able to find them again. Dresser drawers remain empty while clothes pile up on furniture and the floor. Old newspapers and magazines are saved for fear the information in them will be forgotten if they’re not kept on hand. • Emotional attachment to objects.

How to help a hoarder 1. Listen. Let the person tell his/her story. Respect the person’s perspective and attachment to the possessions. Don’t tease or criticize. 2. Go slow. There’s no need to rush changes unless the person’s living situation is unsafe or it is necessary to move to smaller quarters or a nursing facility. 3. Engage. Involve the hoarder in decisions about where to put things and what to throw out. 4. Notice other changes. If there are signs of other cognitive or emotional problems, arrange for a professional evaluation. For example, hiding belongings or spending a lot of time rummaging

through stuff can be a sign of dementia. 5. Provide structure and emotional support. During the de-cluttering process, keep the person company and help him/her stay focused on one area at a time. 6. Lift and tote. An older hoarder may need family, friends, professional cleaners or movers to help with handling the clutter. 7. Work with others. More than 75 communities have hoarding task forces that address psychiatric, legal, geriatric and housing concerns. One possible source of information is your local Area Agency on Aging. — Harvard Women’s Health Watch

By Simone Ellin As Winston Churchill once said, “We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.” Older adults in Baltimore and beyond are more active than ever, and some are devoting their later years to giving back to their communities. Studies confirm that Americans over 62 are waiting longer than previous generations to retire. What’s more, many who do retire aren’t doing so in order to slow down; they’re simply leaving their jobs to pursue other passions. Some even continue to work 40 hours a week at volunteer jobs. That volunteer work is valued at $75 billion, according to the federal Corporation for National and Community Service. In the Baltimore area, many retired and semi-retired people are volunteering to help others and to improve their communities. Here are a few of their stories.

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Too much clutter can be a sign of a mental illness known as hoarding, which can lead to dangerous conditions in a home.

A hoarder often comes to see beauty and value in clutter and develops a sentimental attachment to it. This heightens his or her enthusiasm for acquiring things and reluctance to discard them. • Need for control. The hoarder usually doesn’t want anyone else to make decisions about her possessions, so it can be difficult for the family to help.

Medication and therapy may help There are no specific anti-hoarding medications. Drugs that are used to treat OCD may help, especially selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressants or tricyclic antidepressants. But compulsive hoarders often don’t respond to these medications. Studies show that people with OCD are less likely to respond to SSRIs if hoarding is one of their symptoms. On the other hand, these drugs may be useful for treating the depression and anxiety that often accompany hoarding. Traditional cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can work, but hasn’t worked well either, often because patients are reluctant to participate. To find a therapist with experience in the

treatment of hoarding, check the treatment provider listing in the hoarding section of the International OCD Foundation website.

An escalating problem Over the years, compulsive hoarding takes an increasing emotional, financial and sometimes physical toll. The home becomes unsafe. Guests may be forbidden. “Family members are much more likely to seek help than the hoarder. Hoarders are reluctant to change. And they’re usually upset about their hoarding only if people are putting lots of pressure on them to change,” said Dr. Michael Jenike, professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School and founder of the hoarding clinic at Massachusetts General Hospital. Family interventions don’t always help. The hoarder may resist to hiring a professional cleaner. Extra storage units may simply be filled up. Relatives or friends may try to strongarm a hoarder into getting rid of her stuff, but that tactic often ends disastrously, causing lifelong resentments. “You need someone to negotiate for See HOARDING, page B-3

SEE SPECIAL INSERT Housing & Homecare Options following page 14

Retired, but still on the job By the time many of us retire, we’re ready to pursue something entirely new. That’s not the case for Towson resident Susan Nestler, 73. After working in banking for 30 years, she left the corporate world six years ago to work as a major gifts officer for a nonprofit. Although she officially retired from that group recently, she continues to work for the organization in a volunteer capacity. “Last year, I volunteered in the development office three times a week, doing my own job,” Nestler said. “Once you’ve done fundraising, you can’t really escape it. You’re called upon to do it, and you can’t say no. But also, I really enjoy it,” she admitted. In addition to fundraising, Nestler volunteers for political campaigns, fundraises for other nonprofits she cares about, and helps older residents in her neighborhood by driving them to appointments. In between volunteering gigs, Nestler has time to travel, garden and spend time with family. “I thought I was just going to keep working,” Nestler said. “But when I turned 70, I realized I’m on the short end. I’m not going to live as long as I have lived already. “I knew I had a lot of things I wanted to do. I still like doing [the work I used to do], but it’s really nice not having a schedule, not commuting and not having people

ARTS & STYLE

Baltimore County resident Marty Sitnick, 72, has always loved animals. So, after he retired as a travel agent, he volunteered as an animal trainer at several rescue shelters. Many retirees fulfill lifelong dreams by working overtime as volunteers.

rely on me in the same way. I’m so thrilled to be retired.”

The dog whisperer Owings Mills entrepreneur Marty Sitnick, 72, sold his discount travel company in 2010. With more time on his hands, he decided to spend the rest of his life helping pets. “I always loved animals,” Sitnick said. “My parents always had dogs, and my mother encouraged me to have snakes, hamsters, guinea pigs, lizards… “When I was 7 or 8, I used to walk home from school and I discovered that if I saved some of my lunch, I could get dogs to follow me home. It drove my parents crazy.”

Sitnick wanted to become a veterinarian, but he became disillusioned during an anatomy class at the University of Maryland, when a teacher provided a live demonstration of a chicken running around with its head cut off. Instead, Sitnick graduated with a bachelor’s degree in history and went on to own a variety of successful businesses. Yet, caring for pets — his own and other people’s — was never far from his heart. “I spent as much time as I could reading about animal training, studying techniques and different breeds. I became the kind of See VOLUNTEERS, page 5

At the Chesapeake Shakespeare Company, three actors pay homage to the Bard’s complete works in two hilarious hours; plus, an adopted son’s success story page 23 FITNESS & HEALTH k CDC’s coronavirus advice k Foods that help fend off colds

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Seek, but shall ye find? First, I want to start out by admitting I am to a larger pool of readers who might obguilty of the very pet peeve I want to share ject to being labeled “senior.” today. I’m speaking about the We had a solid response to classic error of conducting a the survey. Many voted for survey that’s mis-aimed from one or more of the suggesthe outset. The Beacon did tions we offered (my personal such a survey of readers more favorite was “Healthy, Wealthy than 15 years ago. and Wise”), and a surprising Long-time readers will renumber proffered their own call our publication was new name (ranging from serinamed “Senior Beacon” at its ous proposals to tongue in inception in 1988. In the early cheek names like “Geezer 2000s, we decided that the Gazette”). time had come to drop the FROM THE But to our surprise and term “senior” from our name PUBLISHER shame, the vast majority voted because we found many By Stuart P. Rosenthal to retain the name “Senior Beaadults in their 40s, 50s and con,” a number of them taking 60s who would have found our publication umbrage at the thought that we would even helpful were reluctant to pick up anything consider changing our name to appease a with that label in the title. younger generation. So, we ran a full-page survey one month That’s when it hit us that we were surveytelling readers we were conducting a con- ing entirely the wrong audience. If we were test for a new name and asking for their concerned that people “out there” were not vote on several possibilities, as well as picking up the Beacon because the name their own suggestions. We explained the “senior” put them off, when why were we reason was to help our publication appeal asking the readers who very happily picked PLEASE NOTE: Due to the increasing number of cancellations of public gatherings due to the coronavirus, be sure to confirm any programs or events mentioned in the Beacon Bits in this issue before you set out. Also, if you would like to receive the Beacon FREE via email each month or subscribe to the print edition at half price ($6/year + tax), email roger@TheBeaconNewspapers.com or call (301) 949-9766.

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The Beacon is a monthly newspaper dedicated to inform, serve, and entertain the citizens of the Greater Baltimore area, and is privately owned. Other editions serve Howard County, Md., Greater Washington, DC and Richmond, Va. (Fifty Plus). Subscriptions are available via third-class mail ($12), prepaid with order. Maryland residents add 6 percent for sales tax. Send subscription order to the office listed below. Publication of advertising contained herein does not necessarily constitute endorsement. Signed columns represent the opinions of the writers, and not necessarily the opinion of the publisher. Publisher/Editor – Stuart P. Rosenthal President/Associate Publisher – Judith K. Rosenthal 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 Representative – Steve Levin Editorial Assistant – Ivey Noojin

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up the Beacon every month what we should change our name to? It was non-readers we needed to survey. Duh! In our defense, I will say that we surveyed the audience that we had, not the audience we didn’t have. That was the easiest thing to do, of course, even though in retrospect it made no sense. So that brings me to two recent examples of organizations who should know better doing exactly the same thing. First, a national membership organization of people over 50 conducts a periodic survey to determined how many of its members are comfortable with using technology. One of the chief goals of these surveys is to show the rest of the world (and potential business partners and advertisers) that people over 50 are “tech-savvy.” The organization crowed in a press release about the most recent results, as their survey “found that 83% use mobile phones, for instance. And more than half (52%) own a tablet. According to the survey, older adults are adopting devices such as smartphones, wearables, home assistants/smart speakers and smart-home technology at nearly the same rate as adults ages 18 to 49.” All well and good, until you go to the actual report and read the fine print on “methodology.” Turns out, the entire survey was only done online and took approximately 15 minutes on average to complete. If you’re trying to find tech-savvy people, it makes sense to look online. But if you’re truly trying to learn what percent of Americans over 50 are comfortable using technology, I think you’d get a truer picture if you also surveyed people who never or seldom go online, who would be unlikely to learn about a survey done online, or would not be comfortable filling out a 15-minute survey online. By omitting all those people from the survey base, they certainly got the results they wanted, but they are hardly representative. A similar error was made, in my opinion, by a county government that had been

discouraged to hear time and again that many older residents were not at all aware of the useful services the county offered. The county wanted to know what additional services such people might need, and most of all, how to better convey to them and their families what the government could do for them. So, they developed a 111-item survey asking about every possible aspect of life where older adults might be having issues or concerns that government could help with. Then they posted the survey online and allowed three weeks for people to reply. When it was brought to their attention that people who would learn of and complete the survey online were probably the folks who already knew exactly how to find out the information they need, they said they were also going to have printed versions of the survey available at all their senior centers and libraries. When it was pointed out that people who already frequent senior centers and libraries also probably know that the government offers such services, they said they are also going to do focus groups. What can I say? In all of these cases, surveyors have their heart in the right place, but due either to limited budgets or limited imaginations go to exactly the wrong place to find out what they say they want to know. I don’t have any easy answers. To really reach the people who are most cut-off from the internet and government services, you probably would have to go door-to-door, and work with the nonprofits and religious institutions that feed and care for the neediest. That takes time, effort and money. It’s certainly easier to post a survey online, which has the added benefit in most cases of showing that you really don’t have to do that much more than you’re already doing. That said, the Beacon is still interested in finding out what our current readers think and want. So, it is no mistake that we See FROM THE PUBLISHER, page 16

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 email info@thebeaconnewspapers.com. Please include your name, address and telephone number for verification. Dear Editor: I am moving, and I have a huge amount of stuff to get rid of before I do. I have lived in my house for 52 years, and my late husband and I both saved piles of mementos over the years. The things I find in boxes surprise me no end! It’s fun to look at the items and remember the good times they represent, but I will probably never look at them again, even if I keep them. So out they go, to Goodwill or Catholic Charities or recycling or the trash bin. I’ve started a program of working 15 minutes

a day to attack one area; it seems to be working. Moving is no fun — but the hardest part is moving out of my chair! Mary Irving Fantucchio Via email Editor’s note: Thank you for your timely letter. The cover story of this month’s Housing & Homecare Options magazine (inside) describes the difference between clutter and hoarding. Glad you’re tackling the former, not the latter. See LETTERS TO EDITOR, page 22

BALTIMORE BEACON — APRIL 2020

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Health Fitness &

PAINKILLER WARNINGS To avoid addiction, use opioids sparingly; try non-prescription painkillers first NEED TO KNOW ABOUT KNEES Knee replacement surgery: the pros, the cons and alternatives to try beforehand SUPERFOODS Garlic, fish, citrus fruits and many other foods may help fight off colds DEPRESSING DIAGNOSES Hopkins seeks volunteers with MCI or Alzheimer’s for depression study

Coronavirus: What you need to know now By Kathleen Cameron The situation around the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) is changing rapidly, and the National Council on the Aging (NCOA) is taking proactive steps to share the best information we have to protect the public’s health, especially among older adults. Now is the time to stay informed and follow basic tips to protect yourself and those around you.

Older adults at higher risk The CDC has identified older adults and people who have severe chronic medical conditions like heart, lung or kidney dis-

ease at higher risk for more serious COVID-19 illness. According to the CDC, early data suggest older people are twice as likely to have serious COVID-19 illness. This is likely because as people age, their immune systems change, making it harder for their body to fight off diseases and infection, and because many older adults are also more likely to have underlying health conditions that make it harder to cope with and recover from illness. Age increases the risk that the respiratory system or lungs will shut down when an older person has COVID-19 disease.

That’s why the CDC is recommending that people at higher risk take the following actions: • Stay at home as much as possible. • Make sure you have access to several weeks of medications, food and supplies in case you need to stay home for prolonged periods of time. • When you go out in public, keep away from others who are sick, limit close contact, and wash your hands often. • Avoid crowds. • Stay up to date on CDC Travel Health Notices (https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/ notices). Anthony S. Fauci, M.D., director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, said that people with serious chronic conditions, especially the elderly, should think twice about traveling or going to crowded places. He advised that these individuals take the simple steps of “not putting yourself in a situation — whatever that might be — that might increase the risk given your situation.” The CDC is urging individuals to stay calm and share facts, not fear. Among the CDC’s advice are these common-sense tips: • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing. • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands. • Stay home when you are sick. • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.

How to support older adults People of all ages can support older adults during this time. Many older adults

depend on services and supports provided in their homes or in the community to maintain their health and independence. The CDC recommends that family members, neighbors, and caregivers: • Know what medications your loved one is taking and see if you can help them have extra on hand. • Monitor food and other medical supplies (oxygen, incontinence, dialysis, wound care) needed and create a back-up plan. • Stock up on non-perishable food items to have on hand in your home to minimize trips to stores. If you care for a loved one living in a care facility, monitor the situation, ask about the health of the other residents frequently, and know the protocol if there is an outbreak.

Beware of scams Unfortunately, scammers are taking advantage of fears surrounding the coronavirus. The Federal Trade Commission has identified several and is offering tips to protect yourself and others. These include watching for emails claiming to be from the CDC saying they have information about the virus, and also ignoring online offers for vaccinations. There currently are no vaccines, pills, potions, lotions, lozenges or other prescription or over-the-counter products available to treat or cure COVID-19, either online or in stores. If you receive an email asking you to donate to a nonprofit that is fighting the coronavirus, make sure to research the organization first through an independent charity rating service such as CharityNavigator.org. See CORONAVIRUS, page 6

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For decades, Dr. Michael Sherlock, 77, a pediatrician who still practices behavioral medicine part-time, has led groups of volunteer landscapers to create green spaces in his Mount Washington neighborhood. His love of landscaping began at an early age. “My mother was a fantastic gardener,” Sherlock said. “She used to take me and my brothers and parade us around her garden.” When Sherlock and his wife purchased a house in Mount Washington in 1976, he discovered he had inherited his mother’s knack for gardening. When he ran out of projects in his own yard in the early 1980s, Sherlock began noticing “a number of public areas that had nothing growing.” So, he and some gardener friends sought permission to plant on city land. “We started at Cross Country [Boulevard] and Kelly [Ave.] with half a dozen

While some people devote themselves to a particular cause, others balance several volunteer positions. Mary Halpin, for instance, another Mount Washington resident, divides her time between a hospital, a nonprofit and a church. A former human resources professional who had previously considered a career in nursing, Halpin retired 10 years ago, when she was 65. She took on a weekly shift at Baltimore’s Mercy Hospital in the endoscopy and cystoscopy unit, changing linens, sanitizing stretchers and running errands. “I was drawn to Mercy because all my doctors are there,” she said. “I work with good people. The nurses are wonderful, the patients are grateful and the staff in the volunteer office are also fabulous. “I love [the job], and I’m sad when I have to miss my shift,” said Halpin, who also helps with Mercy’s annual scrubs sale and blood drives. When she’s not at the hospital, Halpin serves on the grants committee of the Bal-

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Nurturing nature

forts to help needy Baltimore City residents at Thanksgiving and Christmastime, and visits patients at Sinai Hospital. “Sometimes I just ask, ‘What did I do to deserve the life I’ve had?’” Halpin said. “I’m so privileged and blessed throughout my whole life. “I think it’s very important to give to others. I have the time, I have the health, and I’m comfortable enough that I can do it.”

A juggling act

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person people came to with questions about training their pets,” Sitnick said. So, when Sitnick retired, he knew exactly what he wanted to do. He developed a business plan to help animal shelters as well as people who adopt their animals. In the meantime, he volunteered at the Baltimore Humane Society in Reisterstown, becoming a board member and eventually associate executive director, a volunteer position. In addition to his administrative work, Sitnick provides onsite training at shelters and at adoptive families’ homes or over the phone. “I’ve been able to leverage myself to help more people. Sometimes I talk to 10 people in a day from all over the country,” he said. His ultimate goal, he said, is “keeping the animal alive and in the home.”

timore Women’s Giving Circle. The group gives $500,000 in grants to projects that “enable and empower women and their families,” Halpin said. “The circle has funded organizations I never knew existed,” she said. Halpin’s volunteer efforts don’t end there. She’s also an active volunteer with her church, where she participates in an annual school supply drive, supports ef-

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volunteers and donations from neighbors,” Sherlock said. Subsequently, he read everything he could find on the topic and earned a landscape design certificate. After Hurricane David decimated a Mount Washington apartment complex in 1989, it was condemned and eventually demolished by Baltimore City. The following year, Sherlock spearheaded his largest landscaping project to date — the creation of a community arboretum on the empty lot at Tanbark Drive. Today the sustainably designed arboretum, created with funding from the Mount Washington Preservation Trust, the TKF Foundation and other groups, includes more than 300 yards of trails, 300 species of native plants, as well as fish, birds and a pond with a waterfall.

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APRIL 2020 — BALTIMORE BEACON

When/how to use opioids for acute pain By Scott Weiner, M.D. Two recent articles have again highlighted how often opioid pain relievers — medications like oxycodone and hydrocodone — are excessively prescribed in the U.S. for acute pain, sometimes for vulnerable populations, and sometimes for conditions for which they are probably not even indicated. The first paper, by authors at Boston Children’s Hospital, evaluated visits to the emergency department by adolescents and young adults (ages 13 to 22) over an 11-year period from a nationwide sample. About 15% of patients — roughly one in six — were prescribed an opioid, with high rates seen for ankle sprains, hand fractures, collarbone fractures and dental issues, for which an incredibly high 60% of patients in

this age group received an opioid. The second paper compared opioid prescribing by dentists in the U.S. and England in 2016, and the numbers are shocking. U.S. dentists prescribed about 35 opioids per 1,000 people, compared to just 0.5 opioid prescriptions per 1,000 people in England. The pain experienced by people in the U.S. can’t be staggeringly different than in the U.K. So why the discrepancy? In the U.S., prescribers were reassured for years that opioids were a safe and effective way to treat pain. Yes, they are effective. But as evidenced by the vast increase in opioid-related overdose deaths seen in the country over the past decade, they are not safe.

OTC pain meds work, too

On the other hand, medications like acetaminophen and ibuprofen — over-thecounter pain medicines that you can get at any supermarket — actually work amazingly well for acute pain. As an example, a large survey study of more than 2,000 patients who underwent a range of dental procedures discovered that the vast majority experienced adequate pain relief with over-the-counter or non-opioid prescribed pain medications. Similar studies are abundant. Another looked at patients treated for low back pain in the emergency department and found no difference in pain after five days, whether the patient was treated with an anti-inflammatory medicine (naproxen) or an opioid. It just didn’t make a difference, so why take the risk?

When an opioid makes sense Of course, there are times when the over-the-counter medications are not going to be sufficient to treat acute pain. In those situations, the goal should be to take nonprescription medications first, and then add an opioid only when the pain is unbearable. Typically, this period of severe pain is in the first three days after a surgery or trauma. For example, my colleagues evaluated opioid consumption in the days after suffering an acute fracture. Most patients needed only about six oxycodone pills. We therefore subscribe to the recom-

Coronavirus From page 4

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With COVID-19 and all health issues, when in doubt, the best course forward is always to consult with your doctor. Many physicians and healthcare providers are asking that people call or send their questions

mendations of the Opioid Prescribing Engagement Network (OPEN) program in Michigan, which recommends relatively small opioid prescriptions after surgery, such as 10 pills after having your appendix removed or hernia repaired, and just five for procedures like a breast biopsy. Patients do fine with these smaller numbers of pills, and they’re at less risk of developing long-term opioid use.

How to discard leftover pills When the acute pain is gone, if there are leftover opioid pills, discard them safely. Although opioid misuse among teens is decreasing, it still is a major problem. About two-thirds of adolescents who misused opioids got them from friends or family for free. These medications should ideally be stored securely and dispensed by a parent or guardian following the appropriately prescribed schedule. There are lots of places to safely discard pills. In fact, the Drug Enforcement Administration has a website that lists the closest bin locations. If one of those is not accessible, mix the medication with coffee grounds, kitty litter or dirt, seal it in a plastic bag, and put it in the trash. Don’t flush it down the toilet, as opioids and other drugs can contaminate the water supply. See OPIOIDS, page 8

via email first before coming into the office. This article was reprinted with permission of the National Council on Aging. As of press time, this article included the latest information from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Please check www.ncoa.org/blog for updates, and visit cdc.gov for the most current news.

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BALTIMORE BEACON — APRIL 2020

Questions on dry skin, cholesterol drugs By Howard LeWine, M.D. Q: My skin has become very dry and itchy over the past year. Could it be some other skin problem, not just dry skin? A: Our skin’s top layer, or epidermis, is normally thick with naturally occurring fats and oils that act as a barrier to help retain moisture and prevent irritants from entering the skin. But as we age, the skin thins, and we lose some of those fats and oils. This allows vital moisture to escape from the skin, allowing it to become dry and cracked. While dry skin in itself is the most common cause of itchy skin, sometimes it’s tough to tell if the symptoms are caused by a different condition, such as contact dermatitis, eczema or psoriasis. People with contact dermatitis are more vulnerable to allergens and irritants such as fragrances that could cause inflammation. When they come in contact with something that causes a reaction, they develop a red, cracked, itchy rash. Eczema is another term for atopic dermatitis, a condition that is mostly diagnosed in children. In older adults, eczema is a more general term for skin that’s chronically dry, cracked and itchy despite the use of moisturizers. Psoriasis causes thick, raised, red or silvery patches of scaly skin on the elbows,

knees, scalp and trunk. This skin condition isn’t as itchy as eczema.

Over-the-counter remedy For simple dry skin, a concerted effort to moisturize the skin throughout the day may be all it takes to get rid of itching and dryness. But most people don’t moisturize often enough, or they use lotions that contain too much water to be effective on very dry skin. Instead of liquid lotion, look for an oilbased cream that’s so thick it comes in a jar, not a pump bottle. If moisturizing alone isn’t working, it’s time to make an appointment with your doctor or a dermatologist. Q: My cholesterol level has remained about the same for many years, but now my doctor suggests that I start taking a statin drug. What has changed? A: There are two major reasons why your doctor could now be recommending a statin — the cholesterol guidelines continue to evolve and/or you have developed other heart disease risk factors, such as Type 2 diabetes or hypertension. In the past, the decision to start a statin or other drug was based primarily on the level of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL), the so-called “bad cholesterol.” New guidelines have removed this “target-driven” approach. They don’t focus on

the LDL numbers. Instead, they recommend using risk to decide when people should take a statin drug to lower LDL cholesterol. Statins are best because they do more than just lower a number. They reduce risk of heart disease and stroke. New evidence suggests that an LDL cholesterol level much lower than 70 mg/dL is probably beneficial for some people. So, even if you have an excellent LDL blood level, you likely should take a statin if you have: —Artery disease, including angina, a previous heart attack or stroke, or other related conditions —A very high level of harmful LDL cholesterol (generally at or above 190 mg/dL) —Diabetes, if you are also 40 or older For everyone else it’s a decision that

you make with your doctor, depending on risk factors that include: —A parent, brother or sister who had coronary artery disease or stroke at an early age (a man before age 55 or a woman before age 65) —Tobacco use —High blood pressure —A low HDL (“good cholesterol”) level (under 40 milligrams per deciliter) Howard LeWine, M.D., is an internist at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston and assistant professor at Harvard Medical School. For additional consumer health information, visit www.health.harvard.edu. © 2020 President and Fellows of Harvard College. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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APRIL 2020 — BALTIMORE BEACON

Knee pain? Options to try before surgery Courtesy of the University of Michigan When cartilage inside the knee joint starts to break down, a person may begin to experience pain. “If you were to look inside a healthy knee joint, you’d see a thick cushioning of cartilage that covers and protects the ends of your bones, as well as another type of cartilage, called the meniscus, that acts like a shock absorber between the bones,” said Andrew Urquhart, M.D., a professor of orthopedic surgery at Michigan Medicine’s Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Center. “The meniscus keeps the knee joint stable and helps evenly spread out the weight the knee joint bears. “But when a person’s knee cartilage is deteriorating, the bones rub together and they may experience pain when walking or weight bearing.” To treat a painful knee, Urquhart mentioned a few options. “Many patients jump to surgical options, but we recommend every patient start with diet and exercise or physical therapy before considering knee replacement surgery,” he said.

What surgery involves Total knee replacement surgery involves capping off the thigh bone (femur) and shin bone (tibia) with metal, and inserting a plas-

tic bearing, or artificial joint, in between the bones where cartilage would normally exist. In some patients, a plastic cap is inserted over the kneecap (patella) as well. Urquhart notes that the surgery shouldn’t be taken lightly. “About 15 to 20% of patients that undergo knee replacement surgery have buyer’s remorse because they still experience discomfort or a sensation of instability in their knee, even after surgery,” Urquhart said. “That’s why we strongly encourage patients to try non-surgical options before electing surgery.” Urquhart answers some common questions he hears from patients about knee replacement surgery: Q: What’s causing my knee cartilage to break down? A: There are a number of conditions that can cause knee pain and the cartilage to deteriorate. Some of the most common are arthritis; an injury, such as tearing the meniscus; and obesity. Q: Am I a candidate for total knee replacement? A: Patients in their 50s or older who have a hard time walking, despite trying non-surgical treatments first, may be good candidates for knee replacement surgery. Before considering knee replacement surgery, I always recommend patients start with

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improving their diet and exercise routine. Many Americans are overweight, and just losing a few pounds can improve symptoms in the knee, which carries five times a person’s body weight when going up a single stair. Targeted physical therapy and exercise can improve and strengthen the muscles in the knee, which may result in less pain. We also recommend patients try nonsteroidal medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen to reduce swelling and pain. For some patients, we recommend trying steroid injections, such as cortisone injections, before electing knee replacement surgery. When all of the non-operative options listed above do not work, patients should consult with an orthopedic surgeon. During that consultation, a physician will likely give strength and ligament tests, take Xrays, and discuss symptoms as well as the benefits and risks of surgery. Q: What’s the difference between partial knee replacement and total knee replacement? I’ve also heard of resurfacing the knee; what does that mean? A: A partial knee replacement is performed on patients who have intact ligaments and pain isolated to the inside portion of the knee. Performing surgery on that inside portion of the knee can result in

relief of symptoms and the patient not needing surgery on the entire knee joint, thus the “partial” title. All knee replacement surgeries involve some amount of resurfacing, or replacement of the knee’s cartilage. Q: How long does it take to recover after surgery? A: Every patient’s recovery time is different, but most patients can expect to be up and walking without a cane or walker about four weeks after surgery. They can generally bend their knee to or beyond 90 degrees by that point, but they may still experience some pain or stiffness. Q: Will I be able to get back to a physical, active lifestyle? A: Most patients — about 80 to 85% — feel their knee functions better after surgery than before. These patients can get back to lowimpact physical activity, such as walking, hiking, biking, playing golf or tennis, and other light recreational activities. We discourage high-impact activities, such as basketball and running, as these can reinjure the knee. A Wellness Update is a magazine devoted to up-to-the minute information on health issues from physicians, major hospitals and clinics, universities and health care agencies across the U.S. © 2020 www.awellnessupdate.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Opioids

For more severe pain, use the minimum number of opioids needed to tolerate the pain, then back off once the pain is bearable. Then continue with non-prescription treatments. Scott Weiner, M.D., is a contributor to Harvard Health Publications. © 2020 President and Fellows of Harvard College. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

From page 6

Use minimally, if at all If you have a simple problem, like a sprain or a dental procedure, or even back pain, do whatever you can to avoid an opioid. Ask your doctor about which over-thecounter pain treatments you can safely take, and maximize those.

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BALTIMORE BEACON — APRIL 2020

Superfoods that can help fight off colds By Amanda MacMillan They say you are what you eat. So, it makes sense that eating nutritious foods can help you maintain a healthy immune system. “Vitamins, minerals, antioxidants — these are what keep your body strong, and without them you’re not giving your body the edge it needs to ward off infection,” said registered dietitian Karen Ansel, a former spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. For the best defense against colds and flu, make these healthy foods part of your diet: Fish Oily fish — including salmon, tuna and mackerel — are rich in omega-3 fatty acids (compounds that help reduce harmful inflammation in the body). Chronic inflammation prevents your immune system from working properly and can contribute to colds and flu. Garlic These pungent cloves contain allicin, a sulfuric compound that produces potent antioxidants when it decomposes. Garlic packs the biggest antioxidant punch when eaten raw. Anise seeds These licorice-flavored seeds, which have antibacterial properties, have been shown to ease coughing and help clear con-

gestion from the upper respiratory tract. Citrus fruits Studies show that taking vitamin C at the first sign of illness may reduce a cold’s duration by about a day. Eating lots of citrus — noshing on orange and grapefruit slices, or using lemons and limes in recipes — will provide a healthy dose of this powerhouse nutrient. Fennel Fennel is a natural expectorant and can help clear chest congestion and soothe a persistent cough. Make your own fennel tea with 1.5 teaspoons of the seeds and 1 cup boiling water. Steep for 15 minutes, strain and sweeten if desired. Yogurt and kefir Probiotic foods such as yogurt and kefir are a good way to replenish beneficial strains of bacteria, which promote digestive health and help prevent stomach ailments and upper respiratory tract infections. Red peppers Like citrus fruit, red peppers are high in vitamin C. In fact, one red pepper has 150 milligrams of the nutrient. (A large orange, by comparison, has about 100 mg.) Skinless turkey breast Lean proteins are high on Ansel’s list of flu fighters. “We think we need protein to build muscle, and we do. But we need it to

Treating Difficulty Standing, Walking, Sitting, and Sleeping attributed to Arthritis, Spinal Stenosis, Neuropathy, Fibromyalgia, Painful Swollen Legs, Poor Circulation, and "Growing Pains" in Children. As a podiatrist with over 39 years experience, I have always focused on non-surgical treatment pain. I find that many people with uncomfortable symptoms (arthritic, aching, burning, cramping or difficulty walking), even those who have had other treatments, including surgery of the foot (or knee, hip or back), can be helped, usually in 1 or 2 visits. — Dr. Stuart Goldman

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build antibodies and fight infection in the body, as well,” she said. Chicken, turkey and pork are all good sources of protein, as are beans, nuts and dairy. Blueberries These antioxidant powerhouses are bite-size immunity boosters, especially when they grow in the wild. Studies suggest that wild blueberries contain the most active antioxidants of any fresh fruit, thanks to their high levels of anthocyanins — among the most potent antioxidants. Dark chocolate Ounce for ounce, pure cocoa contains more of the disease-fighting antioxidants known as polyphenols than most berries — and it’s loaded with zinc, too. To reap

the immunity-boosting benefits without the unhealthy extras (like high sugar content), stick with bite-size portions of dark chocolate with a cocoa content of 70% or higher. Carrots and sweet potatoes Orange fruits and vegetables such as carrots and sweet potatoes are rich in beta carotene. Your body converts this organic compound into vitamin A, which is essential for maintaining a strong immune system. Health.com delivers relevant information in clear language that puts health into context in peoples’ lives. © 2020 Meredith Corporation. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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APRIL 2020 — BALTIMORE BEACON

New cookbook aims to bring out flavors By Stuart Rosenthal This month’s recipe comes from Deep Flavors, a new cookbook described as “a celebration of recipes for foodies in a kosher style.” The author is Ken Horwitz, an attorney and CPA from Dallas, Texas, with a passion for cooking. He tells stories before (and within) almost all his recipes, giving context and history, and he describes stepby-step instructions to maximize the flavor and presentation of the dish. While that means instructions can be highly prescriptive, the recipes themselves are not so complex that they might put you off from trying them. Some recipes offer the cook options, such as mushroom soup made either with

or without a roux. With either choice, there are simple, but detailed, instructions. The book’s 15 chapters cover the food landscape, from spice mixtures and pickles, to meaty (and vegetarian) main courses and decadent desserts (lots, but not all, with chocolate). The “kosher style” element means there are some traditional “Jewish foods,” many using family recipes, and that non-kosher ingredients are either not used or kosher substitutes are suggested. The book has an international flavor as well, including a selection of Iraqi, Mexican, Italian, French and Indian recipes. We’ve selected a curried fish recipe for the following except from the book. Enjoy!

Easy Indian fish

Coconut-curry fish

You may think that preparing Indian food is daunting and beyond the scope of your capabilities. This is simply not true, now that there are numerous Indian spices and mixtures available from your normal grocery. Or you can buy from online spice markets such as Penzeys.com or a local Indian or Asian grocer so that you do not need to assemble multiple spices yourself. In this recipe, use a white-fleshed fish such as Chilean sea bass, black cod (also known as sablefish), red snapper, grouper, cod, haddock or other similar mild-flavored fish. Do not use salmon, which does not meld well with these flavors. Also be sure to remove the skin from black cod or Chilean sea bass before cooking. Also note that the type of fish used, and its thickness, will determine how long the cooking time is. For example, a thin snapper fillet will cook much faster than a thick fillet of black cod or Chilean sea bass. Also, these latter two varieties need to be fully cooked, while you need to be careful not to overcook ordinary cod or snapper. The final flavor of the dish will vary depending on the spice mixtures used. It is easy to change the flavor of the recipe as desired.

Ingredients: Neutral-flavored oil or butter for sautéing 2 large shallots or ½ sweet onion, finely chopped 2-4 garlic cloves, finely chopped 2 tablespoons ginger, finely chopped 3 pounds fish (see note above) 1 can high-quality, unsweetened, full-fat coconut milk 1 tablespoon garam masala (Indian spice mix) 1 tablespoon sweet curry powder (or another mixture, such as tandoori or tikka masala spice blend) 1 lemon or lime, zested and juiced 1 cup cilantro leaves, chopped Directions: Preheat oven to 350º F. Lightly sauté the shallots, garlic and ginger in a small amount of butter or oil until they have wilted and the aroma is incredible. If you are sautéing in an over-proof pan, add the fish, spices, coconut milk and citrus zest. Otherwise, transfer all of the ingredients except the citrus juice and cilantro to an oven-safe Corning Ware or Pyrex dish. Reserve the cilantro and citrus juice to be added a couple of minutes before cooking ends.

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Health Studies

APRIL 2020 — BALTIMORE BEACON

INFORMATION ON AREA CLINICAL TRIALS

Studying mushrooms to fight depression By Ivey Noojin It’s normal to feel sad after receiving a diagnosis of early Alzheimer’s disease or mild cognitive impairment (MCI). But that doesn’t mean there’s no hope for the sadness to lift. A Johns Hopkins University study is testing a potential treatment for these feelings: psilocybin, a psychoactive substance found in mushrooms. “For many people who get a diagnosis of early stage Alzheimer’s or MCI, it can be a very jarring and unpleasant experience,” said Albert Garcia-Romeu, Ph.D., one of the principal investigators of the ongoing study. “A lot of those folks end up with some depressed mood.” In fact, up to 40% of people with Alzheimer’s experience significant depression, according

to the Alzheimer’s Association. Symptoms include self-induced social isolation, sleep and eating disruption, agitation, fatigue and suicidal thoughts. “It takes a toll on quality of life,” GarciaRomeu said.

Volunteers sought In an open-label pilot study (one without placebos or control groups), GarciaRomeu and Paul B. Rosenberg, M.D., will test psilocybin’s effect on depression in such individuals. They’re looking for people of all ages with some level of depressed mood (which doesn’t require an official diagnosis by psychologist or psychiatrist), plus a diagnosis of early Alzheimer’s or MCI. Volunteers will come to the Bayview

Medical Center, 4940 Eastern Ave., Baltimore, for 15 visits over six months. After two screening days to assess eligibility for the study, they will start weekly counseling sessions. At weeks four and six, they will receive two doses of psilocybin. To monitor its effects, volunteers must stay the entire day, with counseling meetings before and after the dosage session. The drug is administered only during the second month. “Everything after that is a follow up, so we can see if it has made any lasting changes,” Garcia-Romeu said.

A potentially multi-purpose drug Study investigators say the drug isn’t new. “Our lab has been working with psilocybin for the last 20 years, and we found that it has a lot of benefits,” Garcia-Romeu said. In 2014, Garcia-Romeu found that it had the potential to help cigarette smokers quit. Additionally, in a 2011 study, the drug

decreased anxiety and depression in people with a recent cancer diagnosis, as reported in JAMA Psychiatry. Researchers are still trying to determine whether it might also produce cognitive enhancement. Psilocybin has only been tested for this purpose on rats and monkeys, who have demonstrated improved memory and learning processes. While improved cognition is not the main goal of the current study, the researchers will be monitoring those effects as well. “We are curious to see if that translates to improvements in memory and cognitive function in people who are starting to have these symptoms,” Garcia-Romeu said. All participants will receive free counseling throughout the study. Parking expenses will be reimbursed. To learn more about the clinical trial, or to see if you qualify, visit hopkinspsychedelic.org/alzheimers or call the Bayview Medical Center at (410) 550-0100.

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Mar. 31

HUMOR AND HEALTH

Laughter is beneficial to your mental health, immune system and blood pressure. Learn how to laugh and achieve those health benefits. A free class will be held on Tues., March 31 from 7 to 8 p.m. at the Woodlawn Library, 1811 Woodlawn Dr., Woodlawn. To learn more, call (410) 887-1336.

Apr. 4

BREAKFAST WALK

Walk off the calories from your breakfast on a 5 km trail. A group will walk through a park, new neighborhood or McDaniel College. The free walk starts between 8 and 10:30 a.m. and will finish by 2 p.m. on Sat., April 4. The meeting place is Church of the Ascension, 23 North Court St., Westminster. For more information, contact Ward Parr at (301) 337-5764 or parrw@comcast.net.

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BALTIMORE BEACON — APRIL 2020

How the jojoba plant can help your skin There is a plant with beautiful foliage products may be useful for rosacea, psoriathat provides year-round food for deer, so sis, dermatitis, acne or sensitive skin. 3. Hair growth. If you are they call it the deer nut plant. currently dealing with some But you might know it as jojoeyebrow loss due to aging, diba (pronounced huh-hoé-ba). eting or hypothyroidism, jojoJust like cactus plants, jojoba oil might be good to apply ba is a desert plant that can to your brows. tolerate high heat, long hours 4. Strengthen the barrier. of sunlight and very little Our skin’s barrier is termed the water. It’s botanically known stratum corneum, and it traps as Simmondsia chinensis. moisture inside, while keeping Other delightful, hilarious out pollutants, environmental names include goat nut, pignut DEAR toxins, dirt and pathogens. and quinine nut. Call it what PHARMACIST This barrier is important beyou will, the plant is still an exBy Suzy Cohen cause it is what keeps your skin ceptional ingredient to find in looking clear and moisturized. your lotion, face cream and Studies have proven that jojoba oil has serum. It’s so similar to your own sebum (the major skin barrier reparative powers. 5. Nourishing. Jojoba oil contains a natoily secretions of our skin cells) that your skin immediately absorbs jojoba, which ural source of skin-benefitting nutrients can enhance the absorption of other topi- such as vitamin E, zinc, iodine, copper, selenium and chromium. Zinc is known to help cal treatments, nutrients or medication. I think jojoba is one of the healthiest, with acne. Vitamin E protects us from sun most moisturizing, skin-healing and wrin- damage and free radicals. Copper and selekle-reducing oils one can use on the skin. nium may help with collagen formation. IoFull disclosure: I’ve put it in a facial serum dine is a natural type of skin antibiotic. 6. Scars. Jojoba oil is known to be a wonthat I formulated for anti-aging benefits. derful scar healer, especially for acne Here are six benefits of jojoba oil: 1. Collagen synthesis. In several stud- scars. There was a study showing that after ies, jojoba oil has been used to accelerate just six weeks, 154 participants using a jojoba the production of both keratinocytes oil-based face mask experienced a 55% perand fibroblasts. This could mean im- ceived reduction in acne scars. The magic is proved skin wound healing, reduced scar from the high content of vitamin E in jojoba. Jojoba oil is great for practically any skin formation and hair growth. 2. Anti-inflammator y. Jojoba-based type. You can simply buy a plain bottle of it to

Cookbook From page 10 Place the pan or dish into the oven and cook for 30 minutes or until the fish is just done. Serve with basmati rice and a salad or veg-

etable, and you will have a wonderful Indianstyle meal ready in less than an hour. Deep Flavors, is available from Amazon.com for $39.95 ($9.99 on Kindle). For more about the author and the book, visit deepflavorscookbook.com.

use for manicures, pedicures or even a massage. You can also add any essential oil to jojoba for fragrance and additional benefits. One of my favorite things to do is rub jojoba oil onto my dry, itchy or cracked heels. It keeps my feet looking pretty and soft. Be well and pamper yourself with this hydrating, natural oil.

This information is opinion only. It is not intended to treat, cure or diagnose your condition. Consult with your doctor before using any new drug or supplement. Suzy Cohen is a registered pharmacist and the author of The 24-Hour Pharmacist and Real Solutions from Head to Toe. To contact her, visit SuzyCohen.com.

Fitness & Health | Subscribe for half-price. See p. 26

APRIL 2020 — BALTIMORE BEACON

New insights about brain from epilepsy By Carla K. Johnson and Malcolm Ritter Although Genette Hofmann is still using her brain, last month she donated a bit of it to science. Hofmann needed the surgery — her

Seattle surgeon was looking deep into her brain, where he found the trigger for the epileptic seizures that had disrupted her life for 30 years. But to get there, he teased out a bit of

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Ongoing

FREE TAX HELP

Maryland’s Taxpayer Services can help residents prepare their state tax returns for free. Call 1-800 MDTAXES or (410) 2607980 for assistance Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. As an alternative, you can send an email to taxhelp@marylandtaxes.gov or walk into a branch office in Baltimore or Towson. You can also file for free online through iFile at www.marylandtaxes.gov.

Apr. 11

BECOME A NATURALIST

Learn how to use iNaturalist, an app to contribute to observations of biodiversity in the area. The free class takes place on Sat., April 11 from 9 a.m. to noon at BLISS Meadows, 5105 Plainfield Ave., Baltimore. To register, visit http://bit.ly/NaturalistApp.

healthy tissue the size of a lima bean and, with her blessing, quickly sent it to some researchers, who were eager to study live brain cells. Hofmann joined other epilepsy patients who’ve helped scientists reveal basic secrets of the brain — knowledge that could lead to new treatments for a variety of diseases. Research volunteers such as Ruth Nall made a different kind of contribution in a California hospital room, reading sentences aloud as a network of surgically implanted sensors kept close track of how her brain worked. Since she was going to have electrodes implanted anyway, she reasoned, why not help out? “Plus,” she added, “I’d have visitors.”

Disorder provides clues Epilepsy disrupts the brain’s electrical ac-

tivity, producing recurrent seizures that involve strange sensations, behaviors, emotions and, sometimes, loss of consciousness. Most people with epilepsy don’t need surgery and can control seizures with medications. But when surgery is necessary, research scientists can ask to piggyback on the procedures for a rare chance to study the brain directly. For decades, studies of epilepsy patients have revealed secrets of the brain, like how the two halves operate differently. The disease has a long history of revealing the importance of the brain to memory, emotion and everything we call “the self,” said Christof Koch, chief scientist at the Allen Institute in Seattle, where Hofmann’s cells were analyzed. “Seizures have taught us more about brain and the mind, and the relationship between the two, than any other disease,” he said. The Allen Institute is building an online atlas that makes information on hundreds of human brain cells freely available for study. The institute hopes that will provide a new avenue, beyond brain scans and animal studies, for tackling conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease and autism.

Volunteers make a difference For Hofmann, 57, the decision to contribute to the study was simple, even beyond her own epilepsy. She spent years caring for a grandmother with dementia. “This will be my chance to make a difference,” she said. Nall, the California woman, underwent surgery, too. But before that, doctors had to discover the spot that was triggering her seizures. To do that, surgeons often implant sensors on and within a patient’s brain to eavesdrop on its activity and catch the trigger in the act of causing a seizure. Patients being monitored in this way may spend a week or more in a hospital room as doctors wait for seizures to happen. “It is rare that you have the opportunity to study the brain in such a detailed way in awake people,” said Dr. Joshua Rosenow of Northwestern University. The monitoring of Nall’s brain provided data for several papers published in the past couple years. Nall said she’d encourage others to take the same step. “It is something you feel good about later,” she said. “Let your life be defined by the lives that you change.” Two weeks after Hofmann’s surgery, she was optimistic. “So far, so good,” she said. “No seizures.” Part of her brain is gone, but she doesn’t feel anything’s missing. In fact, happy memories have surfaced, “things I haven’t thought of since I was a girl.” Contributing brain cells to science “makes me so proud and so satisfied,” she said. “It makes me feel more connected to the human race.” —AP

BALTIMORE BEACON — APRIL 2020

SPECIAL PULL-OUT SECTION

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Clutter and hoarding: not the same thing

By Margaret Foster and Harvard Women’s Health Watch As a professional organizer in Baltimore, Amy Bloom, founder of Let Your Space Bloom LLC, said that accumulation of possessions is a natural part of life. “There are a lot of people who live with a lot of clutter. Even if you’re very cognizant of editing your stuff, if you’re in a space for a long time, you’re going to accumulate a lot of clutter,” said Bloom, who works with empty nesters who are preparing to sell their houses. It can feel overwhelming to own too much. “Clutter is pervasive, physically and mentally,” she said. But sometimes a person’s accumulation of stuff grows to the point that it signifies a deeper problem. Since Bloom started her organization company in 2016, she has encountered about a dozen people who meet the definition of a hoarder. Hoarding disorder, according to the American Psychological association, is “a persistent difficulty getting rid of or parting with possessions.” It’s a widespread problem that affects between 2% and 6% of the population.

Too much clutter can be a sign of a mental illness known as hoarding, which can lead to dangerous conditions in a home.

treatment of hoarding, check the treatment provider listing in the hoarding section of the International OCD Foundation website.

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APRIL 2020 — BALTIMORE BEACON

How to select an active adult community By Harriet Edleson Steve Thornton was driving along Interstate 75 in South Florida on a “scouting trip” for a place to live in retirement when he saw a billboard for Trilogy at Ocala Preserve. Stopping there, he was taken with the beauty of the place — and knew his wife would agree. “Lyndia would like it,” Thornton, 69, recalled thinking. While their children were growing up, the Thorntons had vacationed in Orlando, an hour southeast of Ocala. “We knew we wanted to be in Florida,” he said. “We had a few places on our list.” The couple had gone online to do research at FloridaforBoomers.com. They narrowed their choice to three communities by following these steps: Do in-person reconnaissance. As part of their research, the Thorntons visited the area as well as the communities they were considering. “We went to them all,” Thornton said. They settled on Trilogy at Ocala Preserve because it felt “right” for them: It wasn’t too big, was newly construction and had a golf course. Plus, it was a 45-minute drive to their grandchildren and 30 minutes to an airport, and had “excellent” healthcare nearby. “This place is more intimate,” he said. “We have new friends from all over the United States.” For retirees, living in an active adult

community — whether age-restricted, agetargeted or no age restrictions — is an option for the 40% of retirees who relocate. Five percent moved to an age-restricted community, according to 2014 surveys conducted by ProMatura Group, a market and consumer research organization focusing on those 55-plus. “Active adult communities come in all shapes and sizes,” said Bill Ness, founder and chief executive officer of 55places.com, a Chicago-based website that focuses on such communities. “It’s not a one size fits all.” Some communities are budget-oriented, and others are high-end. Most have a 3,000-square-foot clubhouse, while others have 20,000-square-foot clubhouses or multiple clubhouses and pools. Today’s active adult homebuyer wants to be closer to a metro area, Ness said. At the same time, the average community size has decreased, with some communities of just 25 homes near an urban center, for instance. About 75% have an age restriction of either 55 and older or 62 and older. Visit the community and the surrounding area. Many communities offer two-night visits, typically at a special rate of $99 or $199 per stay or, in some cases, $149 per person per stay so that prospective residents can learn about them. (Rates vary by property.) While you are there, ask to try the amenities and activities, walk through the

clubhouse, and speak with as many residents as you can. Know your budget. One key to finding the right active adult community is knowing what you are comfortable spending, now and in the future. “What is your capability? What are you willing to spend?” Ness said. Consider the purchase price, whether you will need a mortgage, how much the real estate taxes are, and how much the monthly homeowners fees are and what they include. The Thorntons traded their 5,000-squarefoot house for a one-level, 2,400-square-foot home at Trilogy at Ocala Preserve. Their new home has two bedrooms, a library, sunroom and a three-car garage. The cost of living is lower in Ocala, Florida, than in the Dallas area. “It fits into our budget,” Thornton said. Houses in their community range in price from about $169,000 to about $304,000. Monthly fees vary depending on the location, amenities, size of your home and age of the community. Monthly fees in other active adult communities can be $150 to $400 or more, depending on the amenities — which may include a clubhouse, pools, restaurants, tennis or pickleball courts, fitness centers and spas, walking trails and bike paths, libraries and art studios. Fees also can cover services such as lawn care. Ask what the fee covers; fees can increase, typically with inflation (about 2% a year). Ensure stability. Research the financial stability of any community you consider. Ask to speak to someone other than the marketing person to obtain detailed financial information. Request a copy of the current financial statements and the operating budget, said Dawn Bauman, senior vice president, government affairs at the Community Asso-

ciations Institute, in Falls Church, Virginia. Two key questions to ask: Is there a reserve plan? And is it funded? The reserve plan describes the life expectancy of major components of the property, the cost of maintaining them and their replacement value. You’ll want to find out if there is a line item in the budget for funding the reserve plan. Funds can be placed in a separate account, Bauman said. Although that is not required in every state, it is a best practice, she said. “Before you sign that contract, find out how long you have to evaluate the homeowners association’s finances, reserve fund and rules,” Bauman said. For example, some communities don’t allow you to park a motor home in your driveway. Initially, developers manage most active adult communities, but generally after 10 years or less they transition to management by the owners. Make sure the developer has adequately funded the reserve in advance of owners taking over management, so monthly fees won’t jump or to avoid a special assessment. Check if a special assessment is pending in the upcoming budget. Get the right fit. Active adult communities typically do not include meals or a central dining area. You’ll have your own home, and you can participate as much or as little as you want in community activities. Do a self-assessment. “You have to take stock of choices you’ve made in the past and how you’ve reacted to them,” said gerontologist Mary Kay Buysse of the National Association of Senior Move Managers. Find a place that has activities you like. “Be an anthropologist for a couple of days,” Buysse said. “Try to figure out what the life is like there.” © 2020 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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BALTIMORE BEACON — APRIL 2020

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How the move to a community felt to me By Alice G. Miller On the first day in my new retirement community, I was greeted by a neighbor in the hallway. She remembered meeting other newcomers who had experienced difficult first days here without the necessary cookware to prepare a proper meal. So, she offered to lend me some of her own pots and pans. Clearly, she was mistaking me for some kind of “kitchen goddess,” who could hardly wait to whip up a hot supper for her husband. Actually, I was on my way to see what kind of meal had been whipped up in the café. I was so touched by her neighborliness that I was almost ready to accept the loaned pots and cook something. But I thought better of it and did not take advantage of her generous offer. Because various mobility issues (walk-

ing and balance problems) have increased my vulnerability, and Stan, my husband, is more than ready to embark on a freer lifestyle, we have taken the leap and opted to move into a lovely independent living senior residence. We chose this one because we were charmed by the strong, caring community.

A difficult decision This move has been a giant step, not without great loss. And, given a choice, I would have preferred to wait. We had always thought that our last home was going to be our forever home. But in another few weeks that home of many years will be going on the market. The spectacular acre of environmental habitat, dotted with secret gardens that have been our Eden and spiritual retreat, will no longer be ours.

For now, I am learning to accept one of Buddhism’s “Noble Truths” — that impermanence itself is a part of life. I have come to believe that this truth represents a positive awareness that nothing lasts forever, and knowing this, we need to experience, and be grateful for, each of today’s joys. The joys of today, for me, have been experiencing the welcoming friendliness of the residents and staff members here. Almost everyone stops by just to greet and exchange names. Already, I have met fellow therapists and gardeners and heard many interesting stories. It’s starting to feel like I am becoming a member of a very large tribe, where everybody knows your name.

Kinder, gentler side One resident I met commented that all the friendliness that she had encountered

was starting to feel like she had just been dropped into the Central Casting set for “The Stepford Wives.” Actually, I think what she was experiencing, but not recognizing, is an environment where people are enjoying far less pressure, competition and stress in their lives and thus are able to respond to others with the kinder, gentler part of themselves. It has been experiences like that, this past week, that are helping to heal the sad feelings of loss. I am again reaffirmed in my belief in the old Zen saying, “Leap and the net will appear.” After making the leap that had to be made, I have been embraced by the net of community. I may have lost a garden, but I have gained a tribe Alice G. Miller, a psychotherapist in private practice, is the author of four books. Read her blog at voiceoftheturtledove.com.

BEACON BITS From page B-1 you,” Jenike said. “In some cases, a person isn’t going to deal with this until the Board of Health gets involved.” Some villages in the area, including the Village of Takoma Park, have trained volunteer staff who might be able to help hoarders. Call your local village to ask.

Just a pack rat? If all this talk about hoarding has you wondering where you fit on the continuum of clutter, Bloom offers this advice for ordinary decluttering: “Start with small wins. Don’t start with your basement or your garage or your shed — that’s like Pandora’s box. Who knows what could be in there? Start with small spaces, build that confidence and

keep going.” Don’t be afraid to ask for help, whether from friends or an organizing business. You can pick up Marie Kondo’s bestselling book (The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up, 2011) or watch her Netflix reality series “Tidying Up with Marie Kondo.” Bloom said Kondo’s popularity has helped others understand her job — how stressful a messy house can be and how liberating a clean, organized house can be. When you start your decluttering project, don’t expect instant results, Bloom said. “You have to be patient and kind to yourself in trying to unravel what has accumulated over large periods of time.” — Harvard Women’s Health Watch, © President and Fellows of Harvard College. Distributed by Tribune Media Services, LLC.

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Hoarding

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Housing Notes by Ivey Noojin

Market rate units coming to Stadium Place Coming this fall, Stadium Place is adding a new housing option for residents 62 and older. Village Center at Stadium Place is located at 1100 East 33rd Street in

APRIL 2020 — BALTIMORE BEACON

Baltimore City. Stadium Place already provides affordable housing and support services for more than 370 older adults in a number of apartment buildings and a long-term care facility situated near a community YMCA. Village Center at Stadium Place will add 70 new market-rate apartments, and include space for medical offices and retailers. It will also be a pet-friendly community. Construction began in September. “This senior community has larger apartments, open floor plans and an interior design that is timeless,” said Maryellen

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DeLuca, the vice president of corporate marketing at Habitat America, which manages Village Center at Stadium Place. To submit an interest form, visit habitatamerica.com/communities/village-center-at-stadium-place/ or call (443) 7162550.

Affordable apartments in Mount Vernon In June 2019, Westminster House Apartments in Mount Vernon officially completed renovations on its building, originally constructed in 1965. The building had never been renovated, according to Property Manager Joan Campbell, and it needed new plumbing, flooring and common area. The $40 million renovation took a year and a half. In addition to upgraded cabinets and bathroom fixtures in the apartments, the building’s AC, heat and security systems were overhauled. The renovations were funded in part by Maryland bonds and federal tax credits, enabling the building to offer belowmarket rent to residents who have an income less than 80% of the area median income. Other amenities of the community include a convenience store, beauty salon, garage parking and a computer lab. Besides dedicating itself to affordable housing, Westminster House Apartments also has a walk score of 99 and a transit score of 91. “We’re in the heart of Mount Vernon,” Campbell said. “There are free buses to take residences everywhere.” Westminster House has a resident-service coordinator on staff to plan activities in the surrounding area.

Apartments are available for people 62 and older. The building is located at 524 N. Charles St., Baltimore. To learn more about the apartments, visit westminsterhouseapts.com or call (410) 837-0180.

Support for affordable senior housing Last month, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) awarded $5 million to two Baltimore nonprofits to support their affordable senior housing initiatives. HUD gave $1.1 million to CSI Support and Development Services to provide affordable communities for older adults, and $3.7 million to Comprehensive Housing Assistance, Inc., an agency that works to increase homeownership and economic stability in northwest Baltimore. Forty new units at Comprehensive Housing Assistance and seven new units at CSI Support and Development Services will be reserved for rental assistance, which covers the difference between the cost of operation and the resident’s rent contributions. “It’s very exciting to be one of the two organizations in Maryland to receive this,” said Brandon Moss, the regional manager at CSI. “We’re looking forward to continuing to work with HUD.” The money, part of a $51.6 million grant to 18 nonprofits across the country, will be used to finance housing construction, rental assistance and service delivery for low-income older adults. Overall, the funds will help create nearly 1,100 new homes for low-income seniors in the United States. For more information, visit hud.gov, csi.coop and chaibaltimore.org.

BALTIMORE BEACON — APRIL 2020

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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 coupon to the Beacon. Please do not request info if you are not interested. All replies received by May 1 will be entered into a random drawing to win tickets to Awake and Sing.

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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 found on page 5 and the reader survey on page 28. One entry per household, please. Name __________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Address ____________________________________________________E-mail_______________________________________________

City _______________________________________________________ State ______________________ Zip ____________________ Phone (day) _______________________________________________ (eve) ________________________________________________ BB 420

Please provide your telephone number and e-mail address so we may contact you promptly if you win the drawing.

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APRIL 2020 — BALTIMORE BEACON

Should you move or be a perfect guest? By Alice Shapin When we heard our 30-something daughter was pregnant with our first grandchild, my husband and I were ecstatic. Then came the bad news: Their family was moving to Portland, Oregon for her husband’s job. Our daughter assumed we would move out there, too. But when we visited, the city’s hippie vibe didn’t seem to fit us. We don’t know anyone there, and the winters are rainy, damp and dreary. Besides, our daughter would think nothing of picking up and moving again, leaving us stranded. We’ve all heard of parents moving to be near their children, only to have them move elsewhere.

If it’s likely that they’ll stay put, it’s worth considering if their choice of locale is right for you. Will the weather affect you; is there good healthcare nearby? And, since you need a life beyond the kids and grandkids, are there activities that you like, such as theater, museums or hiking? If you like to travel, is an airport nearby? Find out if there are places to volunteer and see if there’s an over-55 community near them, so you can make friends. And if everything seems perfect, consider a trial run, ideally a few weeks in the summer and a few in the winter. You may find that the solution is getting a summer or winter place there instead of making a complete move.

Consider before moving How do you know if it’s right to uproot yourselves to be near your children and grandchildren?

Tips for visiting grown kids For now, we are staying in Maryland, especially since my husband is still working.

But with Portland being too far away for a long weekend, we’ve needed to focus on how to be the perfect guests when we stay for more than a couple days. After all, we all know the old saying about fish and company: After two or three days, they begin to stink. The funny thing is that, 30 years ago, I wrote a how-to article for adult children titled “The Parents’ Visit: How to Survive and Even Enjoy the Ordeal.” Now that the shoe is on the other foot, hopefully I learned and remembered some things. Here are a few bits of advice for being a good guest with your grown children: Don’t shy away from staying at nearby hotel or Airbnb. If your grown children don’t have a separate guestroom or more than one bathroom, consider a hotel or Airbnb nearby. If you do stay in their house, offer to cook a few meals. Before you leave, strip

ENTERPRISE RESIDENTIAL MOST COMMUNITIES ARE 62 AND BETTER ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY

BALTIMORE COUNTY (CONT.)

The Greens at Hammonds Lane: 410-636-1141 Park View at Furnace Branch: 410-761-4150 Park View at Severna Park: 410-544-3411

Park View at Rosedale: 410-866-1886 Park View at Taylor: 410-663-0363 Park View at Towson: 410-828-7185 Park View at Woodlawn: 410-281-1120

BALTIMORE CITY Ednor Apartments I: 410-243-0180 Ednor Apartments II: 410-243-4301 The Greens at Irvington Mews: 410-644-4487 Park Heights Place: 410-578-3445 Park View at Ashland Terrace: 410-276-6440 Park View at Coldspring: 410-542-4400

EASTERN SHORE Park View at Easton: 410-770-3070

HARFORD COUNTY Park View at Bel Air: 410-893-0064 Park View at Box Hill: 410-515-6115

HOWARD COUNTY

BALTIMORE COUNTY Cove Point Apartments I: 410-288-2344 Cove Point Apartments II: 410-288-1660 Evergreen Senior Apartments: 410-780-4888 The Greens at English Consul: 410-789-3000 The Greens at Liberty Road: 410-655-1100 The Greens at Logan Field: 410-288-2000 The Greens at Rolling Road: 410-744-9988 Park View at Catonsville: 410-719-9464 Park View at Dundalk: 410-288-5483 • 55 & Better Park View at Fullerton: 410-663-0665 Park View at Miramar Landing: 410-391-8375 Park View at Randallstown: 410-655-5673

Park View at Colonial Landing: 410-796-4399 Park View at Columbia: 410-381-1118 Park View at Ellicott City: 410-203-9501 Park View at Ellicott City II: 410-203-2096 Park View at Emerson: 301-483-3322 Park View at Snowden River: 410-290-0384

PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY Park View at Bladensburg: 301-699-9785 • 55 & Better Park View at Laurel: 301-490-1526 Park View at Laurel II: 301-490-9730

Call the community of interest to you to inquire about eligibility requirements and to arrange a personal tour.

www.enterprisecommunity.org PET-FRIENDLY

the bed, ask where they want the linens, offer to put clean ones on and wipe down your bathroom. Light housekeeping may ease the burden of your visit and elicit an offer for a return visit. Open your wallet. If you can afford it, offer to pay for lunch, dinner or take-out. You might even pay for one grocery trip. If money is tight, maybe buy pizza or ice cream cones. Or offer to babysit, so the young parents can get away. And try to look for some activities for yourselves — visit a museum or other place of interest on your own. Break the visit up. A week-long visit just sitting around can be deadly; if possible, plan a mini-trip or long weekend together. After visiting the Portland hot spots, we took our daughter, son-in-law and granddaughter to Bend, Oregon — a walkable, fun town with a beer festival, delicious restaurants and cute shops. Try not to take things too personally. I have to admit I’m overly sensitive, and have to work on this. When the baby was born, we did a lot of cooking for them. My son-in-law, whom I’m crazy about, kept asking if I washed my hands before starting food prep, when I touched the refrigerator, and so on. I’ve been married 37 years, raised two children and never gave anyone food poisoning, so his caution annoyed me. But when you’re in their house, just play by their rules. Be flexible. Try hard to fit into their schedule. One of my friend’s in-laws would get up late even though the best time to take the kids out for an activity was in the morning. Remember, you’re only there for a few days, so don’t disrupt their routine. Respect their sources of information. Things are different from when we brought up our kids. We had books by Dr. Spock and Dr. Brazelton; they have the internet. Besides so much online info, there are apps to keep track of when the baby pooped, when they were last breastfed and when they napped and how long. Don’t be controlling. Don’t criticize or offer unsolicited advice on their parenting skills or anything else, such as how to live a better life. That includes the grandkids’ eating habits, even if their diet is bread and milk, as well as the amount of TV and other forms of screen time they are permitted. The only thing you’ll accomplish is annoying the parents. Resist disciplining the kids unless it’s a safety issue. My in-laws thought it was their right as grandparents to tell their grandkids when they didn’t like their behavior or how they dressed. As grandparents, all we want is for the grandkids to love us. Disciplining is up to the parents, thank goodness. See PERFECT GUEST, page B-7

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BALTIMORE BEACON — APRIL 2020

A new rental income tax break available By Joy Taylor Renting out property can create a retirement income stream that is Uncle Samfriendly. The federal tax law is replete with breaks for landlords, and the 2017 tax law created a new write-off that many landlords can take for their Schedule E rental income. The new tax break falls under the special 20% deduction for individual owners of “pass-through entities.” Self-employed individuals and owners of S corporations, partnerships and LLCs can now write off 20% of their qualified business income (QBI). QBI is your allocable share of income less deductions from a trade or business. Special rules and limitations apply to individuals reporting taxable incomes before the QBI deduction in excess of $321,400 on joint returns and $160,700 on single returns. The QBI rules are one of the hardest provisions in the 2017 tax law to navigate, according to Joel Grandon, enrolled agent and president of the National Society of Accountants. There is no hard and fast rule for determining whether your real estate rental activity is a trade or business, other than a safe harbor, which is difficult to meet. It’s best to seek out the advice of a good tax preparer, Grandon said.

Qualifying for the QBI break There are two ways to qualify rental income as QBI. The first way is if the rental activity rises to the level of a trade or business. This determination depends on a taxpayer’s specific facts and circumstances. Some relevant factors are type of property (residential or commercial), extent of day-to-day involvement by the lessor or his agents, lease terms and number of rentals. A second way to qualify rental income as QBI is to meet an IRS safe harbor. At least 250 hours in a year must be devoted to the activity by the property owner, employees or independent contractors. Time spent on repairs, tenant services, property management, advertising, collecting rents, negotiating leases and supervising workers counts. Hours put in for arranging financing, constructing long-term capital improvements, and driving to and from the property aren’t included. Taxpayers who use the safe harbor must meet strict recordkeeping require-

Perfect guest From page B-6 Temper your expectations. Don’t think everything will be perfect. When my mother visited, she expected our kids to be obedient little dolls. I’d plead with them to behave, so Grandma would think I was a good mother. But no, on one visit, a fight broke out,

ments and attach an annual statement to their returns, as detailed in IRS Revenue Procedure 2019-38. Meeting the safe harbor lets you treat the rental activity as a business for QBI purposes.

Best practices to follow Following a set of best practices can help to solidify the tax break. Because of the safe harbor’s stringent 250-hour minimum and strict recordkeeping requirements, Grandon said it may be easier to meet the case law’s trade or business standard, which doesn’t always require a lot of time spent on the activity. It depends on each taxpayer’s facts, so it’s possible to spend substantially less than 250 hours and still be in a business. Grandon advises that those who want to treat their rental activity as a business adhere to these best practices: Keep separate bank accounts for the activity. Track your time and the time of everyone whom you pay to do work on the property, plus a description of the work. Keep expense receipts, and insure the property. And send 1099 forms by January 31 to anyone you pay $600 or more in a year for services and isn’t a corporation; file copies of the 1099s with the IRS. Can you qualify for the QBI break if you only own one rental home? Steve Fishman, author of Every Landlord’s Tax Deduction Guide (Nolo, $40), said yes, depending on the facts and circumstances. Fishman said that if he owned a single rental property that generated income, he would take the 20% write-off. He concedes, however, that the more rental properties you own, the stronger your trade/business argument will be. Treating the rental income as QBI and taking the 20% deduction won’t change the way you report rental income on your 1040 return. Real estate rental income is usually reported on Schedule E. Also, the rental income generally isn’t subject to self-employment tax. If you qualify, you take the 20% QBI deduction on line 10 of the 2019 Form 1040 and attach either Form 8995 or 8995-A, depending on taxable income. © 2020 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

and my daughter gave my son a bloody nose. Try to remember that kids will be kids — even your grandchildren — so relax. And if you remember only one thing, remember the wise words of Queen Elsa in Frozen: Let it go. Alice Shapin is a freelance writer in the Washington, D.C. area and a member of the Society of American Travel Writers.

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Charlestown 1-800-222-9651 715 Maiden Choice Lane Catonsville, MD 21228 CharlestownCommunity.com A sprawling 110-acre campus, hundreds of resident-run clubs, and three clubhouses featuring dozens of top-notch amenities. For over 35 years, Charlestown retirement community has been delighting Baltimore area seniors with all the comforts of maintenance-free senior living. This enviable lifestyle comes with the security of a 90% Refundable Entrance Fee* and a predictable Monthly Service Package that covers utilities, telephone, cable, Internet, scheduled transportation, and much more. Residents have their pick of stylish apartment homes, plus convenient on-site medical care, including advanced care options should health needs ever change. Call 1-800-222-9651 for your free brochure. *Carefully read the Residence and Care Agreement for the conditions that must be satisfied before the Provider is required to pay the entrance fee refund.

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APRIL 2020 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; BALTIMORE BEACON

BALTIMORE BEACON — APRIL 2020

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Money Law &

CHARITABLE GIVING Understand the latest tax rules when giving to your favorite charities. It makes sense to donate every other year, and to consider donating directly from your IRA CENSUS 2020 SCAMS Is that email, or that person at the door, really from the Census? How to tell LEAVING A LEGACY Giving an annuity to your grandchildren provides a lifelong gift with some key tax benefits

What do you know about financial fraud? Promissory notes and Ponzi schemes istration requirements and are not sold are the leading products or schemes that through public stock exchanges. are likely to trap investors in He recommended NASAA’s 2020, according to Christoinvestor fraud quiz (nasaa.org/ pher Gerold, the president of investor-education/investmentthe North American Securifraud-awareness-quiz). I took ties Administrators Associathe quiz and found it to be intion (NASAA). formative. Also on the top five list Here are some of the ques(based on investor complaints tions and answers: and ongoing investigations) 1. Which of the following are real estate investments, phrases should raise your cryptocurrency-related investconcern about an investTHE SAVINGS ments, and social media- and ment? GAME Internet-based investment a. High rate of return By Elliot Raphaelson schemes. b. Risk-free NASAA is the oldest interc. Guaranteed against loss national organization devoted to investor d. You must invest now protection in the United States, Canada and e. All of the above Mexico. It is the voice of 50 state security Answer: e. Beware of any salesperson agencies responsible for efficient capital for- who tells you an investment is risk-free and mation and grassroots investor protection. provides a guaranteed high rate of return. According to Gerold, the most common 2. Security laws protect investors by telltale sign of an investment scam is an offer requiring companies to: of guaranteed high returns with no risk. a. Show profits before they can sell stock He also indicated that many of the threats b. Provide investors with specific inforfacing investors involve private offerings, mation about the company which are exempt from federal securities regc. Pay dividends

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d. Repay investors who have lost money Answer: b. Securities regulation is based on a disclosure system: Laws require companies to provide investors with specific information. Companies don’t have to show profits or pay dividends to sell stock. There is no requirement to repay investors who lost money investing. 3. In which situation are you taking the least amount of risk? a. Buying a certificate of deposit (CD) in the U.S. b. Investing with someone you know from your church or community association c. Investing offshore d. Investing with someone who contacted you by phone Answer: a. Although buying a CD is low risk, you should investigate insurance levels in the event of the bank’s failure. In addition, you should consider inflation risk when you invest in low-return investments. All your investments shouldn’t be in lowrisk investments if you need capital growth as part of your investment objectives. 4. A fellow book club member tells you about an investment opportunity that has earned 20% during the past year. Your

investments have been performing poorly, and you are interested in higher returns. This person is your friend and you trust him. What should you do? a. Ask your friend for more information about the investment so that you can understand the risks before you make a decision b. Invest only a small amount to see how things go before you make a larger investment c. Call your securities regulator to see if the investment has been registered or is properly exempted for sale d. Both a and c Answer: d. You should never make an investment simply based on word of mouth, even if the recommendation comes from a family member, friend or acquaintance. Ask for more information and call your securities regulator to see if the investment has been registered or exempted for sale. For other questions and answers, visit the fraud center website. Elliot Raphaelson welcomes your questions and comments at raphelliot@gmail.com. © 2020 Elliott Raphaelson. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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APRIL 2020 — BALTIMORE BEACON

How to reduce taxes when giving charity By Jaime Eckels When it comes to tax planning, there are few more emotionally charged decisions than those around charitable giving. People tend to see their donations as a vital way to give back to society and to feel connected to a broader community, whether it be on a local, national or even spiritual level. The task of deciding where and how to give has become more important, and more complex, as a result of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, which reduced a key incentive for charitable giving. The near-doubling of the standard deduction for joint-filing married couples (it stands at $24,800 in 2020) means that many families no longer get a benefit from itemizing their deductions, of which charitable giving has traditionally been a significant component. Only around 16 million households are estimated to have itemized their deductions in 2018, down from 37 million. There are early signs that charities are suffering the effects of this change. Individual giving fell 1.1% in 2018 to $292 billion, or by 3.4% adjusted for inflation, according to Giving USA 2019: The Annual Report on Philanthropy for the Year 2018. Giving by individuals declined from 70% of total giving to 68% that year.

There are several options to donate in a tax-efficient way, so long as you’re willing to plan ahead. Here are three tax strategies to help your charities and reduce your tax bill:

Bunch your donations Most philanthropically minded taxpayers should be considering bunching two years’ worth of donations into a single tax year and giving every other year rather than giving the same amount annually. This has always been a viable tax strategy, but the drastic rise in the standard deduction has made it relevant for a much broader swath of households. Consider a family that has potential deductions of $10,000 in mortgage interest payments, $8,000 in property taxes, and wants to give $5,000 to charity ($23,000 total). On an annual basis, the family wouldn’t have enough deductions to break through the standard deduction threshold and so would get zero tax benefit from their donations. By bunching two years’ worth of their $5,000 in donations into the same tax year, they would exceed the standard deduction level by $3,200 (in 2020) and thus be able to reduce their taxable income by that amount.

Give from a retirement fund Since older adults often own their home outright and thus don’t deduct mortgage interest, they’re even less able to achieve tax benefits through itemized deductions. But they do have a powerful alternative in qualified charitable distributions (QCDs). If you’re taking required minimum distributions (RMDs), it can be advantageous to donate directly from your IRA account via QCDs. These distributions, which were made permanent in 2015 as part of the Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes (PATH) Act, allow retirees to avoid paying income tax on distributions of up to $100,000 and can satisfy their minimum distribution requirement. The donations get transferred straight from the IRA to a qualified charity, and the income never shows up on their 1040. This strategy has a secondary benefit of reducing adjusted gross income (AGI), which can affect your Medicare premiums and the taxability of Social Security benefits.

Give appreciated securities The longest U.S. stock market bull run in history has left a lot of people’s brokerage accounts inflated with unrealized gains. These profits are a great source of

From the publisher From page 2 are printing a one-page survey form on the back page of this issue. It’s meant for you! We would greatly appreciate your taking a few minutes to fill it out and send it back to us. For those comfortable with internet surveys, you may also fill it out online at this address: bit.ly/tbns2020

charitable gifts, but the moment you sell the stock, you’ll have to pay capital gains tax. For annual donations of $1,000 or more, you may be far better off to transfer the long-term appreciated stock directly to a charity. The gain simply disappears, leaving neither you nor the charity on the hook for it. The one catch is that this doesn’t lend itself to a last-minute scramble to organize your donations at the end of December. It generally takes time to make sure your charity has a brokerage account, arrange the transfer, and allow time for it to go through. Give yourself a few months or ask those questions now, when the people who run the charity might be in less of a rush, too. If you’re giving consistently to charity, it means you’ve given thought to who you want to support and why. It only makes sense, then, to give more thought to how you support them as well. This article was written by and presents the views of Jaime Eckels, CFP, relationship manager at Plante Moran Financial Advisors. Check adviser records with the SEC or FINRA. © 2020 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

As an incentive, we will be holding a random survey of all entries for a cash drawing of $250. Many thanks for reading the Beacon, for enduring my tirades, and for helping us with our survey.

BEACON BITS

Mar. 28

FINANCIAL FITNESS FAIR

Celebrate the 15th annual Money Power Day with the region’s largest free financial fitness fair. Get advice on boosting your financial independence. The fair will be held on Sat., March 28 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Baltimore Polytechnic Institute, 1400 West Cold Spring Ln., Baltimore. To learn more, visit http://bit.ly/PolytechnicInstitute.

Mar. 28

PROTECTING YOUR LEGACY

Create a healthy financial plan by understanding the basics of creating a will, power of attorney and medical directives. The free seminar takes place on Sat., March 28 from 1:15 to 2:30 p.m. at the Baltimore Polytechnic Institute, 1400 West Cold Spring Ln., Baltimore. To register, visit http://bit.ly/LegacyProtection.

Mar. 29

CELEBRATE PASSOVER EARLY

Honor the Israelites who were liberated from Egypt with an early seder. Eat seasoned chicken or a vegan dish, drink wine and listen to prayer and song. The event will be held on Sun., March 29 from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Baltimore Hebrew Congregation, 7401 Park Heights Ave., Baltimore. Tickets cost $25. To register, contact Sid Bravmann at (410) 952-6352 or visit baltimorehebrew.org/bhseder.

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BALTIMORE BEACON — APRIL 2020

Beware of potential 2020 Census scams By Jim Miller Unfortunately, scams have become a persistent problem when the U.S. Census Bureau does its once-a-decade count of the U.S. population. While census participation is very important and required by law, you also need to be vigilant of census-linked scams. This is especially important for older adults, who tend to be prime targets. In mid-March, you and nearly every other U.S. household will receive an invitation in the mail to respond to the 2020 Census. It only takes a few minutes to complete the census questionnaire. This year, you will have the option of completing the questionnaire either online, by mail or by phone. If you don’t respond to this invitation letter, you will receive several follow-up postcard reminders from the Census Bureau by mail. If you still don’t respond by late April, a census worker will come to your door to collect your response in person. The Census Bureau warns against phishing email scams as well as con artists masquerading as census workers who will try to solicit your personal financial information. Here are some tips that can help you protect yourself:

Guard financial information

Don’t give out your personal or financial information. The Census Bureau or a legitimate census worker will never ask for your Social Security number, bank account number, credit card number, money or donations. And they will never contact you on behalf of a political party. If you’re asked for any of these, whether it be via phone, mail, email or in person, it’s a scam and should be reported to rumors@census.gov.

Don’t fall for email The Census Bureau will not send you an unsolicited email to request your participation in the 2020 Census. So, ignore any emails you get that may direct you to a census website. It may look real, but is fake — and may be infected with malware. Also, don’t reply to the email or open any attachment because they could contain viruses that could infect your computer. Forward the email or website address to the Census Bureau at rumors@census.gov. Then delete the message.

Check ID of census workers If someone visits your home to collect a response for the 2020 Census, make sure you verify their identity. A legitimate census taker must present a field badge that includes a photograph of themselves, a De-

partment of Commerce watermark and an expiration date. Census workers will also be carrying a Census Bureau laptop or cellphone, as well as a bag with a Census Bureau logo. Also, remember that a Census worker will only ask you the questions that appear on the questionnaire — your name, gender, age, race, ethnicity, phone number, type of residence and number of people living with you. They will not ask for sensitive personal information, such as your So-

cial Security or credit card number. If you have questions about their identity, you can call 1-800-923-8282 to speak with a local Census Bureau representative. If it is determined that the visitor who came to your door does not work for the Census Bureau, contact your local police department. For more information on the 2020 Census, visit 2020census.gov. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of The Savvy Senior book.

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APRIL 2020 — BALTIMORE BEACON

Leave grandchildren an annuity as legacy By Ken Nuss A trust is one way to leave a legacy, but you’ll need to hire a lawyer to draw it up. And there may be ongoing management fees that will reduce the amount your loved ones will receive. There are simpler, cheaper ways to leave a legacy. For instance, you can buy a cash-value life insurance policy or fund a 529 college savings plan. But one of the best options, an income annuity, is usually overlooked. It’s an ideal vehicle for leaving a legacy. An annuity offers unique benefits. It’s the only gift guaranteed to keep on giving for a lifetime. Here’s how it would work: You buy a longevity annuity — also called a deferred income annuity — for your grandchild. This type of annuity defers payments until a future date that you choose. For example, your grandchild is 10 years old. You make a $100,000 deposit. You decide to have income payments begin when your grandchild reaches age 25 and continue for the remainder of his or her life. One top insurer will guarantee a payment of $481.68 per month, with $335.73 of it taxable. If your grandchild lives to age 85, he or she will collect $346,809.60: $246,809.60 in interest plus the $100,000 of principal.

Pros and cons An income annuity has no cash value, and that’s something that can be both a pro and a con. As a pro, after you’re gone, your grandchild won’t be able to blow the money on a fancy pickup truck or whatever. Upon request, some insurance companies will even add a non-assignable/transferable clause to the policy in order to prevent your loved one from selling their annuity on the secondary market. While lack of cash value has advantages, it does have some downsides. Of course, you must be sure that you’ll never need the money before you give it away for good. I used the example of a $100,000 deposit, but you don’t need to spend that much. You can buy an income annuity with as little as $10,000. In addition, you’re trading your cash for the insurer’s promise to pay a stream of income. So, you need to take care to choose a financially strong insurance company. Depending on your state’s laws, once you buy an annuity you have 10 to 30 days to change your mind and get your money back. But once the “free look” period is over, you can’t get out of the contract, though you or your heirs may be able to sell an income annuity on the secondary market, if you didn’t have a non-assigna-

ble/transferable clause added to the policy as described above. Another pro is that since your grandchild will receive a check from you every month or year, you’ll be remembered fondly. If you choose annual payments, you might have the annuity check arrive each year on your grandchild’s birthday or on Christmas, Hanukkah or another holiday.

Inflation protection available In addition, the checks can increase. For an added cost, you can add an inflation-protection rider so that the amount will go up over time. This will help the recipients retain future purchasing power. Over time, an initial deposit of $100,000 could grow to $300,000, $400,000 or more in total gifts received. It depends on how long the income pays out, the internal rate of return offered by the insurance company, and how many recipients are set up to receive the income payouts. What other financial product will let you do this?

Only partly taxable Another advantage is tax efficiency. When income is received, only a portion of it will typically be taxable. This is because part of the income from an annuity is considered to be a return of principal and part is considered to be earnings. While earn-

ings are taxed, return of principal is not.

Is it right for you? Buying an annuity for a child or grandchild is probably not the best approach for someone with a relatively large estate and sufficient resources to hire estate planning attorneys and accountants, as well as having the necessary time and patience to implement a more complex estate plan involving various forms of trusts, etc. But for someone who wants a quick, easy and inexpensive way to be remembered as giving the gift of guaranteed lifetime income to younger loved ones, it can be a good fit. Keep in mind that this strategy is not intended to replace your entire estate plan; it’s just an option for part of it. While others may give gifts that are soon forgotten, providing those loved ones with an ongoing gift of income that will last for the remainder of their lives or longer will ensure that you have created a legacy for yourself as well as a nice financial cushion for the younger generation of your heirs. This article was written by and presents the views Ken Nuss, CEO and founder of AnnuityAdvantage. © 2020 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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BALTIMORE BEACON — APRIL 2020

The Invention of the Year The world’s lightest and most portable mobility device Once in a lifetime, a product comes along that truly moves people.

Introducing the future of personal transportation... The Zinger.

“I can now go places and do things that I wasn’t able to go or do before. It has given me a new lease on life and I am so happy I found it!” –Dana S., Texas The first thing you’ll notice about the Zinger is its unique look. It doesn’t look like a scooter. Its sleek, lightweight yet durable frame is made with

aircraft grade aluminum. It weighs only 47.2 lbs but can handle a passenger that’s up to 275 lbs! It features one-touch folding and unfolding– when folded it can be wheeled around like a suitcase and fits easily into a backseat or trunk. Then, there are the steering levers. They enable the Zinger to move forward, backward, turn on a dime and even pull right up to a table or desk. With its compact yet powerful motor it can go up to 6 miles an hour and its rechargeable battery can go up to 8 miles on a single charge. With its low center of gravity and inflatable tires it can handle rugged terrain and is virtually tip-proof. Think about it, you can take your Zinger almost anywhere, so you don’t have to let mobility issues rule your life. You can even gate check it at the airport like a stroller. Why take our word for it. You can try the Zinger out for yourself with our exclusive home trial. Call now, and find out how you can try out a Zinger of your very own.

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Throughout the ages, there have been many important advances in mobility. Canes, walkers, rollators, and scooters were created to help people with mobility issues get around and retain their independence. Lately, however, there haven’t been any new improvements to these existing products or developments in this field. Until now. Recently, an innovative design engineer who’s developed one of the world’s most popular products created a completely new breakthrough... a personal electric vehicle. It’s called the Zinger, and there is nothing out there quite like it.

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of settings. And best of all, it features a powerful lift mechanism that tilts the entire chair forward, making it easy to stand. You’ll love the other benefits, too. It helps with correct spinal alignment and promotes NEW back pressure relief, to prevent back and Footrest extension muscle pain. The overstuffed, oversized for better support biscuit style back and unique seat design head to toe will cradle you in comfort. Generously filled, wide armrests provide enhanced arm support when sitting or reclining. It even has a battery backup in case of a power outage.

APRIL 2020 — BALTIMORE BEACON

Subscribe for half-price. See p. 26

PHOTO BY DANIEL HATTON

Travel Leisure &

Real tips for traveling with grandchildren. (Just kidding with the photo.) See story on p. 22.

Barcelona’s architecture, history, sports

Rambling along La Rambla The city’s boulevards have wide sidewalks, plentiful cafés and comfy benches, all ideal for people-watching. Budget-conscious

visitors can easily explore Barcelona on foot, by bus or subway. Total immersion is the only way to fully feel the vibes of the mile-long La Rambla, a broad, plane-tree-lined, pedestrian avenue traversed by 150,000 people a day. At times, it seems like all of the city’s 7.5 million annual visitors are ambling along the road from the Placa de Catalunya to the sea. Walkers can easily spend half a day poking in and out of cafés, shops and flower stalls (and dodging souvenir hucksters). At the midpoint of Placa de la Boqueria is Joan Miró’s sidewalk mosaic, his gift to the city, centered by an anchor, a reminder of Barcelona’s attachment to the sea. At the Mercat de la Boqueria, a market that opened in 1217, barrels bulge with products like ham, snails, dried mushrooms, fish, fruit, vegetables and olives.

By Glenda C. Booth Antoni Gaudí, Barcelona’s renowned architect, once observed, “There are no straight lines or sharp corners in nature.” Straight lines are few in Gaudí’s hometown of Barcelona, a Mediterranean city of 5 million in northeast Spain, sprawled between the mountains and the sea. A winding, narrow street connects with yet another winding street, which spills onto a bustling plaza of merry buskers — and from there, more narrow, winding streets lead to other plazas. Many buildings sport decorative ironwork, balconies, bay windows, turrets, painted tiles, flower boxes, carved relief, mosaics, frescoes and statues. Inspired by nature, Gaudí’s one-of-akind buildings throughout the city are fanciful amalgams of swoops, curves, wavy lines, undulating roofs, pillow-like corners and ornate turrets. Barcelona is the capital of Catalonia, a region proud of its identity. Most locals speak two languages, Spanish and Catalan, and English is common. The Catalonian red and yellow flag hangs from many balconies — a reminder of movements to secede from Spain.

Barcelona’s largest and most celebrated building, La Sagrada Família, is unfinished but open to tourists. Construction began 137 years ago but was interrupted by the Spanish Civil War and lack of funding. The city hopes to complete the basilica by 2026, the centennial anniversary of the death of Antonin Gaudí, its primary architect.

Gorging on Gaudí Barcelona’s jewels are the Catalan Modernism architectural wonders designed by the beloved Gaudí (1852-1926). Exploring his creations feels like an adventure on par with Dr. Seuss or Alice in Wonderland. Gaudí’s flamboyant, imaginative designs include parabolic archways, organic shapes, cone-shaped towers, tree-like columns and colorful tiles. Many towers and turrets have imaginative “toppings.” Gaudí’s masterpiece is La Sagrada Familia Basilica, a fantastical, unfinished © OLGACOV | DREAMSTIME.COM

cathedral. Gaudí became its chief architect in 1883, and planners hope it will be finished by 2026, the centenary of the architect’s death. (He is buried in its crypt.) Another Gaudí masterpiece withing walking distance of the basilica is La Pedrera, built between 1906 and 1912. The building combines geometry and nature in its flowing forms, undulating lines, wavy walls and 30 chimneys that resemble medieval knights. In the center of Barcelona, Casa Batlló — with its sinuous facade, wave-shaped window frames and dragon’s-back-shaped roof — is another Gaudí spectacle of light and color. With its broken tiles resembling fish scales, it invokes the sea and its creatures. Even the wooden handrail undulates. Park Guell, a former estate that Gaudí planned, is another dramatic merging of architecture, fantasy and nature.

The original Roman city

Tourists and locals walk, shop and people-watch on La Rambla, Barcelona’s busy pedestrian walkway. The tree-lined esplanade stretches about a mile through the center of the city to its harbor on the Mediterranean Sea.

The labyrinthine Barri Gotic, or Gothic Quarter, dates back to the Romans and is the historic core of the old city. Visitors can explore the ruins of the Roman colony called Barcino under the Museum of History and learn how the ancients accomplished everyday tasks, such as preparing the Mediterranean condiment garum (fermented fish sauce), making wine, and storing food and drink in large Greek jugs called amphorae.

Centered in the Barri Gothic’s heart is the soaring Barcelona Cathedral. The main part was built between 1298 and 1460, with the facade added in 1870. One legend says Christopher Columbus brought Native Americans there and converted them in the baptismal pool. If you navigate the nearby cobblestoned streets and alleyways, you’ll find the Picasso Museum, where you’ll learn about his formative years and long, creative life by studying his paintings, sketches, lithographs, etchings, aqua tints and linocuts. A ride to the top of Montjuic, the “city’s green lung,” offers views of the city and the art of Barcelona native and surrealist, Joan Miró at the Fundacio Joan Miró. Exhibits explain: “He tortured the canvas with unconventional practices like perforating and burning it, almost ‘anti painting.’” Miró believed that “one line, one color can make a painting.” Soccer fever infects Barcelonans, and even soccer agnostics can catch it at Camp Nou, the city’s famed soccer (called football in Europe) stadium. This hallowed ground and museum is the most visited site in Barcelona, tourism promoters contend. The museum’s walls display medals and trophies, some five feet See BARCELONA, page 21

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BALTIMORE BEACON — APRIL 2020

Barcelona From page 20 tall, covering Fútbol Club Barcelona games from 1902 to the present. Videos blast out historic game highlights. Visitors who squeeze through hordes of teenagers taking selfies can see the players’ room, sauna and press room and tour several levels of the stadium.

A day trip to Monserrat Monserrat — the name refers to a mountain range, a monastery and an 8,900-acre national park — is 31 miles from Barcelona, an easy day trip by hourly train and a funicular up the mountain. The highest peak is 4,000 feet. Pressed against the imposing rock formations is a Benedictine monastery established in 1025. Many tourists find respite in the beautiful basilica with a facade that features carvings of Christ and the 12 apostles.

The interior sparkles with white marble and gold. Above the altar sits the Black Madonna, a statue of the Virgin Mary with a dark complexion. On the park’s trails, visitors may spot nightingales, eagle owls, titmice, bats and 1,250 plant species. For more information, visit monserratvisita.com.

Affordable dining In Barcelona, it’s easy to eat well for less. One restaurant, Fernando Serato, brags, “Our Bellota pigs live in freedom,” meaning they are free range and forage for nuts and whatever else they find outdoors. Butcher Enrique Tomas’s motto: “Keep calm and eat ham.” Lunch typically begins around 2 p.m., and dinner is late, served at 9 or 10 p.m. If people show up at 6:30 or 7 p.m., “They must be Americans,” one local quipped.

If you go Barcelona weather is pleasant year-

BEACON BITS

Apr. 11

PULL AND PESTO Garlic mustard is often used in sauces, but it is also an invasive

species. Help remove the plant from a public park and then make some pesto to take home. The event takes place on Sat., April 11 from 10 a.m. to noon at the Oregon Ridge Nature Center, 13555 Beaver Dam Rd., Cockeysville. Cost is $5 for nonmembers and $3 for members. To register, call (410) 887-1815 or email info@OregonRidgeNatureCenter.org.

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round, thanks to steady sea breezes. The tourist agents under Placa de Catalunya can be your best friends, from giving instructions on using public transportation to arranging tours.

For planning information, visit barcelonaturisme.com. As of press time, the U.S. government has banned flights to and from Europe. Check cdc.gov for current news.

BEACON BITS

Apr. 2

HOW WOMEN SEE NATURE

An exhibit, “Women and Nature,” highlights the relationship between humans and the environment through visual art and poetry by female Maryland artists. The free grand opening will take place on Thurs., April 2 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Maryland State Arts Council, 175 W. Ostend St., Suite E, Baltimore. For more information, visit msac.org.

Apr. 20

JOB FAIR

Get hired at a job fair with local businesses and national corporations. The free event takes place on Mon., April 20 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Sheraton Baltimore North, 903 Dulaney Valley Rd., Towson. To register, visit http://bit.ly/BaltAprilJob.

Leisure & Travel | Subscribe for half-price. See p. 26

APRIL 2020 — BALTIMORE BEACON

When you’re traveling with grandchildren By Jim Miller Dear Savvy Senior, My husband and I are interested in taking our two grandkids on a big trip this summer and are looking for some good ideas. Can you recommend some travel companies that offer special travel packages for grandparents? —Doting Grandparents Dear Doting, There are a number of travel companies today that offer specialized, multi-genera-

tional trip packages for grandparents and grandchildren. They plan everything for you, with most activities for the two generations together, but some just for adults so you can get an occasional breather. Available in various trip lengths and price ranges, these tours are designed for children, typically between the ages of seven and 18, and are usually scheduled in the summer, or sometimes during breaks when the kids are out of school. Here are some top tour companies to

Luncheon All Marylanders 100 years of age and older, or who will be age 100 by December 31, 2020, are invited to attend the 28th anniversary

Maryland Centenarians Recognition Luncheon

check into that will take you and your grandkids on a fun, well-planned vacation: Road Scholar (RoadScholar.org): This well-established not-for-profit organization has offered educational travel to older adults since 1975. They currently offer 130 different programs geared to grandparents and grandchildren. About 75% of the grandparent trips are domestic; the rest are international. Some of the most popular destinations include the U.S. National Parks, Costa Rica, the Galapagos Islands and Paris. The average cost per person per night is $250 for domestic trips; $360 for international. Tauck (Tauck.com): This is a large tour operator that offers 22 foreign and domestic multi-generational trips. Some of their most popular excursions are Costa Rica, European riverboat cruises, and Cowboy Country, which takes you through Wyoming and South Dakota. Austin Adventures (AustinAdventures.com): This adventure travel tour operator offers 119 family friendly trips ideally suited for grandparents and grandchildren. Popular packages include destinations such as Yellowstone National Park, Alaska, Costa Rica, Austria and Holland. Adventures by Disney (AdventuresByDisney.com): This offers more than 35 vacations all over the world, including itineraries in Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe, North America and South America. Smithsonian Journeys (SmithsonianJourneys.org): They offer seven different family journey trips to London and Paris, Tuscany, Iceland, Galapagos Is-

Letters to editor From page 2 Dear Editor: The March issue of the Beacon was very well written. [The cover story about] Ms. McDermott is interesting. In the second paragraph, she said, “What makes all Americans Americans, regardless of their hyphenation, is that they are from someone, or are some-

lands, Botswana, Yellowstone and a Rhine River cruise. Journeys International (JourneysInternational.com): This group offers customized multi-generational trips primarily to Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Pacific.

Take the right travel docs Depending on where you go and your mode of transportation, you’ll need to gather some documents for your grandchildren to make sure everything goes smoothly. Most travel experts recommend you bring a notarized travel consent form (letter of permission from the parents), and a medical consent form in case any emergencies arise. Also bring copies of insurance cards. If you’re traveling domestically, you should know that airlines and trains don’t require any form of ID for children under 18. But if you’re traveling to Mexico, Canada, Bermuda or other areas of the Caribbean by land or sea, grandchildren 15 and under will need certified copies of their birth certificates. And if your grandkids are 16 or older, or you’re traveling to these locations via air, passports will be required. If you’re traveling overseas, all children, even infants, must have a passport. Some countries also require a visa for entry, and vaccinations may be required. Before booking a trip, check the U.S. Department of State’s website at travel. state.gov for country-specific information. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of The Savvy Senior book.

one, who left their home, whether for reasons of ambition or desperation.” As a black or African American whose ancestors were slaves, I have to disagree with her. Some were brought over against their will to be human property for life. That’s a stain America would like to forget, but “immigrants” has a different meaning to different people. Dora McPherry Towson, Md.

Thursday, May 14, 2020 • 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Martin’s West 6821 Dogwood Rd. • Baltimore, MD All family and friends of centenarians are also welcome. Donation: $45. Centenarians admitted free with registration. For more information or to register,

call (410) 664-0911 or email doctorodd@comcast.net www.mdcentenarians.org SPONSORS: AARP, Catholic Charities, Keswick Multi Care Center Baltimore, Baltimore County Government, Recreation and Parks, Senior Division The Beacon Newspaper, CARE Services, Maryland Centenarian Committee, Inc., Social Security Administration

Cars, boats, furniture, antiques, tools, appliances Everything and anything is sold on

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BALTIMORE BEACON â&#x20AC;&#x201D; APRIL 2020

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Baltimore mother Marian Davis celebrates her adopted sonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s success. See story on p. 24.

Slapstick Shakespeare parodies the Bard Puns and other low humor There are puns (â&#x20AC;&#x153;A nose by any other name would still smellâ&#x20AC;?), jabs at Shakespeare (â&#x20AC;&#x153;excelling despite male pattern baldnessâ&#x20AC;?), audience participation, slowmotion swordplay, rainbow-striped pantaloons, primary-color tights and high-top Keds, spurts of silly string and a nod to the Bardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x153;A-Listâ&#x20AC;? works. Each member of the three-man ensemble plays multiple roles and, in keeping with Shakespearean tradition, the female parts as well (hence numerous well-worn wigs and in Kashnerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s case, a variety of voice modulations, from Cockney lass to Valley girl). Burgess provides what little order he can to the proceedings in his role as a â&#x20AC;&#x153;pre-eminent Shakespearean scholarâ&#x20AC;? (graduate of a certificate program, making him â&#x20AC;&#x153;neither eminent nor post-eminentâ&#x20AC;?), who describes the Bardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s influence â&#x20AC;&#x153;spreading through the lymphatic system of civilization.â&#x20AC;? Act One begins with a satiric salute to Romeo and Juliet. The biggest laugh comes as Wilsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Romeo declares, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Call me but love, and Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be new baptized.â&#x20AC;? Kashnerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Juliet interrupts, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Um, did you

PHOTO BY BRANDON W. VERNON

By Dan Collins â&#x20AC;&#x153;Dying is easy. Comedy is hard.â&#x20AC;? Whether it was 20th-century actor Peter Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Toole, 18th-century thespian Edmund Kean, or a host of others who may have said it, this quip refers to the challenge of making audiences laugh. It could also be a reference to the amount of physical energy expelled, given the many pratfalls, quick changes and assorted wild goings-on required for any comedic production. Both the skill and the sweat are clearly at play as actors Gregory Burgess, Elliott Kashner and Matthew Wilson take on the hilariously Herculean task of performing The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged) by Adam Long, Daniel Singer and Jess Winfield. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 16 comedies, 11 historical plays and 11 tragedies, not to mention the sonnets (â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the complete WORKS of Shakespeare, not just his plays!â&#x20AC;?), all in two hours, with a 15-minute intermission. One becomes winded just perusing the program. Performances run (and they do run) through March 29 at the Chesapeake Shakespeare Company.

Elliott Kashner, Matthew R. Wilson and Gregory Burgess perform multiple Shakespearian roles in the comedic parody The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged), which runs at the Chesapeake Shakespeare Company until March 29.

just call yourself Butt Love? Is that your name now?â&#x20AC;? Things ratchet up a notch as the perspiring players are perturbed to discover this single play has taken nearly a quarter hour to perform. On to Titus Andronicus, a bloody work

where a tormented father kills his daughterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s assailants, bakes their remains into pies, and feeds them to their mother. Naturally, Titus becomes a cooking show, â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Gory Gourmet.â&#x20AC;? See SHAKESPEARE, page 25

March M arch 27 - June 7

June 12 - August 23

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APRIL 2020 — BALTIMORE BEACON

Baltimore adoptee now college president By Timothy Cox For Marian Elizabeth Wilson Davis, being the mother of a college president is more than she envisioned when she adopted a 3-year-old boy in 1972. In the early 1970s, Davis and her husband, Belford, were in the midst of contemplating parenthood after learning that Marian could not conceive. The Davises eventually adopted young Roger Wilson Davis, who grew up in Baltimore. Last year, Roger, now 50, was elected as the first African American president of the Community College of Beaver County in the Pittsburgh suburb of Monaca, Pennsylvania. Marian Davis, 91, grew up in rural Darlington, Maryland, in Harford County (30 miles north of Baltimore), as the eighth of 10 children. She attended segregated schools, and because black children were not allowed to ride the bus to school, she had to walk, she recalled. “We were poor, but we didn’t realize it,” she said. “We had the separate water fountains and bathrooms, but it was not as bad as the terrorism that folks faced in places like the deep South — like Georgia, Mississippi or Alabama,” she said. After graduating from Bel Air Colored High School in 1944, Davis matriculated to

Morgan State College (now Morgan State University), where she graduated with a physical education degree. She enjoyed a 40-plus career as a physical education teacher in both Calvert and Baltimore County schools. Her husband worked for Bell Telephone and AT&T, first as a janitor before retiring as a telephone booth coin-collector. Mr. Davis died in 2008. “I’ve outlived all my siblings, my husband and all my friends,” Davis said during a recent interview. “Sometimes I feel lonely, but it’s all right.”

One fateful day Davis remembers the day she and her husband decided to adopt Roger. She happened to turn on the television to a program on the CBS-Baltimore affiliate. Roger was featured on the segment, which was called “A Child is Waiting.” “The little boy was on a tricycle and kept riding up to the TV camera. He was just so sweet and adventurous. I talked to my husband, made the necessary calls, and it happened,” she said, describing how the adoption came about. The Davis family attended Union Bethel AME Church of Randallstown, Maryland. Little Roger would perform Michael Jackson’s “Moonwalk” step “in front of the

whole church,” she remembered. “I really thought he was going to be a minister. He spent so much time in church; he loved to sing, write and produce plays,” she said. Roger was an excellent student, she said. “In school, his teachers said he was a very talkative youngster, but he was a good student and always came home with good grades.” Davis received his bachelor’s degree at the University of Maryland, and then went on to earn a master’s degree at Coppin State University and a doctorate of education at Morgan State University. He was an associate dean and statistics professor at the University of Maryland University College in Adelphi for almost 20 years. This year, Davis was unanimously elected by the Community College of Beaver County’s nine-member board of directors to serve as ninth president — the first African-American to head the 53-year-old institution.

An emotional moment Genetha Woods-Short, an African American board member, delivered the news during the February 2019 board meeting. Davis said the excitement she exhibited took him by surprise.

“She was so choked up with emotions, she could hardly make the announcement,” Roger Davis said. “I’m so humbled and really excited about what the future holds for all of us.” Roger describes his childhood in the Woodmoor section of Baltimore County as healthy and loving. He once met his biological mother, who answered questions that had bothered him for years. “She explained that she was in an abusive relationship and couldn’t raise four young children,” he said. “I told her I was okay and had no regrets or blame toward her, and that God had led my path.” Marian Davis advises prospective adoptive parents to adopt younger children before they become teenagers, if possible. She also recommends being open and honest with adopted children. “I told Roger he was adopted soon after we got him [at age three].” She felt her honesty helped strengthen their bond. “I just feel blessed that it all turned out so well,” she said. While attending Milford Mill High School, he played on the tennis team and realized the value of strong academics. He matriculated to the University of MarySee ADOPTEE, page 25

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BALTIMORE BEACON — APRIL 2020

Shakespeare From page 23 Othello follows as a Gilbert & Sullivan parody: “I am the very model of a model Moorish general.” Macbeth offers Wilson a rather clever way to play three witches simultaneously. Shakespeare’s 11 history plays become a fast-paced football game, Lancaster versus York, as one king overthrows another. The audience is also introduced to Shakespeare’s “problem plays, also known as the obscure works, or Shakespeare’s crappy plays,” as aforementioned scholar Burgess explains.

Adoptee From page 24 land Eastern Shore in Princess Anne County where he earned a bachelor’s degree in English. From there he returned to Baltimore to secure a master’s degree in adult education from Coppin State University and an Ed.D. in urban educational leadership from Morgan State University. He celebrates the chance to direct CCBC which marks renewed interest due, he believes, to a recent economic surge in Beaver County. The construction of a $6 billion utility factory by Shell has resulted in significant job-growth in a region that has suffered for decades following the closing of multiple steel mills. “It’s definitely a resurgent and reinven-

The Bard’s comedies are quickly dispatched as “all the same,” switching in gender, identity and species, and then concluding with everyone married.

On to Act Two All the foregoing takes place just within the first hour of the show! Following the intermission, the play’s second half is all “Halmet — uh, that is, Hamlet,” which exposes the many layers of the characters. Ophelia is torn between her desire for Hamlet, her traditional role as a courtly woman of Denmark, and her grief after her father’s death, all presented tive spirit going on throughout the entire (Beaver) Valley,” Mr. Davis said. He remains unmarried, so he has plenty of time for his four godsons and for other downtime activities including international travel and tennis. One day he hopes to go back home to Charm City (Baltimore). “I have a heart for Baltimore; it’s the foundation of my educational training. It’s still the place I call home,” he said. Retrospectively, Mrs. Davis offers advice to young parents who may be contemplating adopting children. “My advice to any family, and especially black families, is to adopt the child when he/she is still young. Up to age 8 or 9, because it becomes difficult the closer they are to becoming teenagers,” she added.

in didactically droll fashion as an exploration of the id, ego and super-ego — with some help from a few willing, but wary, audience members. From Hamlet’s father’s ghost to “Fellatio, um, Horatio,” the stage trio take on all roles in Shakespeare’s most famed play, though Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are nowhere to be found because “they’ve got their own play anyway,” Kashner jokes. The cast’s lively performance resulted in a standing ovation followed by several encores, which included a 43-second production of Hamlet, and one version of Hamlet in reverse, both in lines read and

FROM PAGE 26 ANSWERS TO SCRABBLE

scenes performed, all greatly abridged. Kudos to director Ian Gallanar and the entire scenic, lighting, costume and production crew for presenting this Bardic farce, essentially a 120-minute Marx Brothers routine. The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged) continues through March 29 at the Chesapeake Shakespeare Company, 7 South Calvert Street, Baltimore, two blocks north of the Inner Harbor. Tickets range from $19 to $53. For more information, visit chesapeakeshakespeare.com or call the box office at (410) 244-8570.

ANSWERS TO CROSSWORD M A T T B R A U A K I N A S H E T I X A N E C U D R A B U T R O I S B G N U A B S U L O I S E X E S

E N G L I S H E R O R R

A T O M S A R A I S R E N T P O O A M S W L A B A O H A S R A N T A D J E C C O A H T H K I E E K N D A N D A O V E R N Y E T

H O B O O W E D O W N E D R U P S A M P S T M E V E R B I N T O T I V E D U O N E N Y D S A T B S U R D L A N A I E R O D E

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APRIL 2020 — BALTIMORE BEACON

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Crossword Puzzle

Daily crosswords can be found on our website: www.TheBeaconNewspapers.com Click on Puzzles Plus Grand Slams 1

Stephen Sherr

28 32

70. 71. 72.

BB420

55 59

Shine-less Smallest amount of an element Vagabond Manscaping manufacturer “Nobody doesn’t like ___ Lee” Was subject to the terms of the credit card agreement Part 1 of a grammar observation (by t he Grand Poobah) Key, usually next to the spacebar Impoverished FedEx foe Word following “my pronouns are...” “___ the Walrus” Features of Alligator Alley StubHub offering Full portion of ribs M&T Bank lobby feature Part 2 (at the Grand Canyon) DOCUDRAMAS’ middle section Start of -acid and -arctic He’s Just Not That ___ You Part 3, grandly descriptive One with Middle-Earth malevolence Home to the Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden Number that is its own square root Part 4 (the least grand part of all) Thanksgiving table-mates At least six ft. Lion’s lunch Imitate a corpse flower Member of the 2019 World Series champs Grand finale of the grammar observation Coworker of Clark and Jimmy ___ the moon with joy Hawaiian Island, 97% owned by Larry Ellison Xerox end-points Security Council veto Chip away at

Down 1.

50 54

Across

20. 21. 22. 23. 26. 28. 30. 31. 33. 34. 40. 41. 42. 43. 48. 49. 50. 51. 54. 55. 56. 57. 59. 61. 67. 68. 69.

49 53

17.

37 42

Scrabble answers on p. 25.

21 26

1. 6. 10. 14. 15. 16.

18 20

Grad. of MIT Sloan School of Mgmt.

2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 18. 19. 23. 24. 25. 27. 29. 32. 35. 36. 37. 38. 39. 44. 45. 46. 47. 51. 52. 53. 56. 58. 60. 62. 63. 64. 65. 66.

Noah’s construction project Mai ___ (drink served at 49 and 69 across) Sushi fish Language of Australia Obnoxious jerk Rain delay cover-up Cold Stone Creamery mix-ins He was named the greatest racehorse of the 20th century by ESPN ___ the West was Won Accept responsibility Words from R2D2 All the houses on one side of the street Prefix relating to a Mediterranean nation Give a campaign speech Right fielder Rusty, in the Mets Hall of Fame Member of an Indian religion Put forth, as effort “Pa has the car today; ___ it yesterday” Year in Pope Benedict XVI’s Pontificate Instrument Taylor Swift strums on “Mean” Chocolate substitute Ruth’s Chris specialty Diplomat He lines up against the lft. tackle Forecasts, ominously “ERROR” with a transposition error Used the information from the briefing Host for the 2022 Winter Olympics Able to be adjusted, as a grand piano Place for unread mail Wake Up Little ___ Subject to a baggage surcharge Severe wind It is often bent in Game of Thrones Russian ruler Battleship letters A-Team actor (after completing his dissertation) Game with Reverse and Skip cards “Far out!” Fizzle out, as a bonfire

Answers on page 25.

BALTIMORE BEACON — APRIL 2020

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 the right. CAVEAT EMPTOR! The Beacon does not knowingly accept obscene, offensive, harmful, or fraudulent advertising. However, we do not investigate any advertisers or their products and cannot accept responsibility for the integrity of either. Respondents to classified advertising should always use caution and their best judgment. EMPLOYMENT & REAL ESTATE ADS: We will not knowingly or intentionally accept advertising in violation of federal, state, and local laws prohibiting discrimination based on race, color, national origin, sex, familial status or handicap in connection with employment or the sale or rental of real estate.

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For Rent/Sale: Real Estate MID-ATLANTIC FUNDING GROUP — Pays cash for Owner Financed Mortgages. Professional Service / Fast Closing. Call Us Today! 1 (800) 641-9521 or visit midatlanticnotes.com A PLACE FOR MOM. We’re the nation’s largest senior living referral service. Call today to connect with one of our trusted, local Senior Living Advisors. Our service is no cost to you. No obligation! Call 1-855-502-4495.

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Home/Handyman Services For Sale EASE ADJUSTABLE MATTRESS. Full Size. Firm. 10 year warranty. Purchased June 2019 for $2040.00. Asking $1500.00 or best offer. Call 410-653-0992. If no answer, please leave a message. HOLLY HILL MEMORIAL GARDENS, Crypt for sale. Garden building 2, crypt 17, 2 A. Does overlook beautiful field. Paid $6800 and willing to let go for $5,800 OBO. Call Robin, 443-528-5540. DULANEY VALLEY MEMORIAL GARDENS interior crypt. Location in mausoleum east wing Lot 181 level F. Today’s value $19,030, which includes opening and closing of crypt. This is a very desirable space in the Chapel area. Willing to let go for $15,000. Call Robin for more info 443-528-5540. (2) GRAVE PLOTS AND VAULTS Parkwood Cemetery (Parkville)Located in Garden of Honor. Value: $8500, Cost: $5000 for both. Only for Veteran and First Responder, Call : 410.665.9339. PUT ON YOUR TV EARS and hear TV with unmatched clarity. TV Ears Original were originally $129.95 - NOW WITH THIS SPECIAL OFFER are only $59.95 with code MCB59! Call 1-833-934-0843.

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HOW TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED AD All classified ads must be submitted and paid for online, via our website, www.thebeaconnewspapers.com/classifieds Deadlines and Payments: To appear in the next issue, your ad text and payment must be entered by the 5th of the preceding month (for Baltimore and Howard County editions); by the 20th (for Washington 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 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 Personal Services

Wanted

BOOKKEEPER: $30/HR. — My age is 67, retired, highly organized, and assertive dealing with situations. I’ll work with you to setup and track: monthly budgets; pay bills as you require; track down mistakes on invoices and credit card bills; help contest Medicare and medical provider billing errors; track investments; and, help you coordinate with your accountant regarding tax filings and payments. Call Greg at 443-463-4344.

BUYING VINYL RECORDS from 1950 to 1990. Jazz, Rock-n-Roll, Soul, Rhythm & Blues, Reggae, Punk, Blues, and Disco. 33 1/3 LP’s, 45’s and some 78’s, Some Groups Of CD’s Larger collections of at least 100 items wanted. Please call John, 301-596-6201.

Personals RETIRED JEWISH LAW PROFESSOR, kind, considerate, fun to be with, great sense of humor; Ravens and Orioles fan, enjoys Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, dining, and movies. Seeks like-minded lady, age 50-70, to share dating and companionship. Call Ned at 410-998-8448. SINGLE WHITE FEMALE, 56, in search of single white or Latina female for friendship and possibly more. Interests include cats, the zoo and museums. Call and leave a message on my cell phone: 443 916-4907.

TV/Cable DISH NETWORK. $59.99 for 190 Channels! Blazing Fast Internet, $19.99/mo. (where available.) Switch & Get a FREE $100 Visa Gift Card. FREE Voice Remote. FREE HD DVR. FREE Streaming on ALL Devices. Call today! 1-844-560-5837. DIRECTV - Switch and Save! $39.99/month. Select All-Included Package. 155 Channels. 1000s of Shows/Movies On Demand. FREE Genie HD DVR Upgrade. Premium movie channels, FREE for 3 mos! Call 1-888-572-4953.

MONEY, TIME TO SELL! CALL GREG, 1717-658-7954. We buy sterling silver flatware, jewelry, gold, silver, coins, watches, paper money, antiques, toys, bottles, comic books, records, pottery, art glass, vintage military and old sporting items (baseball, football and boxing) just about anything old. Make the right choice! You have something to sell give me a call. Greg 1-717-658-7954 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, vintage cars, Mid Century Modern furniture, vinyl records, gold and silver coins and more. Based in Silver Spring, we serve Montgomery, Howard and Baltimore Counties, Washington D.C., NOVA and beyond. Also provide appraisal services for insurance/estates. Friendly, conscientious staff. Call Chris on cell (202) 731-9447. www.OrionsAttic.com.

Classifieds cont. on page 25.

ADVERTISERS IN THIS ISSUE Clinical Research Studies

Health

Weinberg Senior Living . . . . . . . . .B-8

Survey

Alzheimer’s Depression Study . .13 Balance & Falls Study . . . . . . . . .12 Calorie Restriction Study . . . . . . .14 Dental Health Study . . . . . . . . . . .13 Knee Osteoarthritis Study . . . . . .12 Memory Study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 Neuropathy Study . . . . . . . . . . . .12

Barenburg Eye Associates . . . . . . .9 Goldman, Stuart, DPM . . . . . . . . .9 Low Vision Shop . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Myerberg Center . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Rosenblatt Foot Care . . . . . . . . . .13 Skin Cancer EB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Legal Services

Beacon Reader Survey . . . . . . . . .32

Angels of Elder Care Planning . .15 Frank, Frank & Scherr Law Firm . .15

Technology

Health For Life . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Home Health Care

Dental Services

Options for Senior America . . . .B-4

Moving Services

Denture Doctor . . . . . . . . . . . .5, 10 Quick Affordable Dentures . . . . . .9

Home Improvement

Medical Cannabis

Caring Transitions . . . . . . . . . . . .17

Real Estate

Everyman Theatre . . . . . . . . . . .B-5 Toby’s Dinner Theatre . . . . . . . . .23

Travel

Bath Fitter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Leaf Guard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18

Bob Lucido Team . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

Coppin State University . . . . . . . .23

Housing

Shopping

Blair House at Stoneleigh . . . . .B-2 Catholic Charities . . . . . . . . . . .B-3 Charlestown/Erickson . . . .B-3, B-7 Christ Church Harbor Apts. . . . .B-4 Enterprise Residential . . . . . . . .B-6 Oak Crest/Erickson . . . . . .B-3, B-7 Pickersgill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B-2 St. Mary’s Roland View Towers . .B-4 Warren Place Senior Apartments . . .17 Weinberg Park Assisted Living . . .B-7

Radio Flea Market . . . . . . . . . . . .22 Perfect Sleep Chair . . . . . . . . . . .19 Zinger Chair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

Beacon 50+Expo . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 Centenarians Luncheon . . . . . . . .22 Keswick Wise & Well . . . . . . . . . .8

Government Services Pikesville Senior Center . . . . . . . .21

Computer Doctors . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 TechMedic4u . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 TheBeaconNewspapers.com . . . .24

Theatres/ Entertainment

Education Events

Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation Manor Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Subscriptions Beacon Subscription . . . . . . . . . .26

Eyre Bus, Tour & Travel . . . . . . .22 Resorts Casino Hotel . . . . . . . . . . .4 Superior Tours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

Volunteers/Careers Baltimore City Companion Program . . . . . . . . .17 Meals on Wheels . . . . . . . . . . . . .21

APRIL 2020 — BALTIMORE BEACON

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