April 2020 | Howard County Beacon

The Howard County

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Zinner, who was an ardent racquetball player before he injured his knees, started biking seriously about eight years ago, just around the time C2H was formed.

He found cycling “a really good alternative when you can’t do quick turns or

APRIL 2020

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PHOTO BY IVEY NOOJIN

A sustainable exercise

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More than 30,000 readers throughout Howard County

Bicycling for the health of it

By Robert Friedman Columbia resident David Zinner will be wearing his knee-length, red-white-andblue socks on April 21 as he and a group of fellow bikers from Cycle2Health (C2H) pedal to several presidential primary voting sites.

“We hope to look a little outrageous so that people will be reminded to get out and vote,” said Zinner, 69, a ride leader for C2H. While the official Howard County primary date is April 28, early voting will be available at several sites from April 16 to 23, including Miller Library in Ellicott City, the Florence Bain Senior Center in Columbia, and the Ridgely’s Run Community Center in Jessup, where the riders plan to stop along their 30-mile route.

Zinner, a onetime community organizer and former executive director of Tifereth Israel Synagogue in Washington, D.C., joined C2H several years ago.

The organization is a Howard County government-sponsored health program open to all ages but designed with bikers 50 and over in mind.

Members, of whom there are currently 160, range in age from their 20s to their 80s. Many are retired, and most are grandparents, according to Zinner.

The group offers rides every week, led by some of its 31 trained ride leaders, who map out and lead different routes designed for beginners, intermediates and veteran cyclists.

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LEISURE & TRAVEL

Read of Barcelona’s winding streets and curvy, colorful architecture; plus, snorkeling in Indonesia, and tips for traveling with grandchildren page 27

ARTS & STYLE David Zinner, right, with John Ingalls, left, go on group bike rides every week for Cycle2Health, a Howard County program. Residents of all ages are welcome to participate in the program, which caters to riders at every skill level.

quickly move side-to-side anymore.”

One of Zinner’s fellow cyclers, Columbia resident Joyce Kelly, would agree.

Kelly, 79, said she started biking when she was 10 years old.

A former executive in the environmental field, Kelly joined C2H after knee sur-

IMPORTANT. EASY. SAFE. EVERYONE in Howard County Counts!

gery. Now a seven-year veteran of the group, she likes to pedal at her own pace.

“All the other riders in my group are younger than me,” Kelly said. “I’m usually in the caboose, at the end of eight to 15 riders, See BIKERS, page 12

“I encourage everyone to be fully counted in 2020.”

Howard County Executive Calvin Ball

COMPLETE THE CENSUS TODAY! ONLINE • BY PHONE • BY MAIL 410-313-6325 • census2020@howardcountymd.gov www.howardcountymd.gov/census2020

Three actors pay homage to the Bard’s complete works in two hilarious hours at the Chesapeake Shakespeare Company page 31

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Seek, but shall ye find?

First, I want to start out by admitting I their own suggestions. We explained the am guilty of the very pet peeve I want to reason was to help our publication appeal share today. I’m speaking to a larger pool of readers about the classic error of conwho might object to being laducting a survey that’s misbeled “senior.” aimed from the outset. The We had a solid response to Beacon did such a survey of the survey. Many voted for readers more than 15 years one or more of the suggesago. tions we offered (my personLong-time readers will real favorite was “Healthy, call our publication was Wealthy and Wise”), and a named “Senior Beacon” at its surprising number proffered inception in 1988. In the early their own new name (ranging 2000s, we decided that the FROM THE from serious proposals to time had come to drop the PUBLISHER tongue in cheek names like By Stuart P. Rosenthal term “senior” from our name “Geezer Gazette”). because we found many But to our surprise and adults in their 40s, 50s and 60s who would shame, the vast majority voted to retain have found our publication helpful were re- the name “Senior Beacon,” a number of luctant to pick up anything with that label them taking umbrage at the thought that in the title. we would even consider changing our So, we ran a full-page survey one month name to appease a younger generation. telling readers we were conducting a conThat’s when it hit us that we were surtest for a new name and asking for their veying entirely the wrong audience. If we vote on several possibilities, as well as were concerned that people “out there” 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.

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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).

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were not picking up the Beacon because the name “senior” put them off, when why were we asking the readers who very happily picked 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 15minute 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-todoor, 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 33

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: 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 someone, 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.

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Health Fitness &

READY FOR A CLOSE-UP What are dermal fillers, and do they really erase signs of aging?

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 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 disease 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 respira-

tory 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 prescripSee CORONAVIRUS, page 6

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 congestion 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 See SUPERFOODS, page 7

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Dermal fillers can reduce signs of aging

By Kristina Liu, M.D. The four major structural components of our face are skin, fat, muscle and bone.

As we age, volume loss in these areas contributes to the visible signs of aging. Dermal fillers may help.

Over time, age-related bone loss in the face can lead to retraction of the jaw line, descent of the nose and loss of high cheekbones.

The facial muscles also decrease in volume and elasticity, and deflation and movement of facial fat further accentuates the signs of aging.

Finally, the skin stretches and loses elasticity. Compounded by the loss of scaffolding provided by fat, muscle and bone, these changes lead to wrinkles, sagging skin and other familiar signs of aging.

Dermal fillers, an injectable treatment performed in a doctor’s office, can help

smooth lines and replenish lost volume, restoring a more youthful appearance.

Many types of fillers Dermal fillers are soft, gel-like substances that are injected under the skin.

They can address a number of common concerns, including smoothing of undereye circles, lifting of cheekbones, volumization of the lips, smoothing of lip lines and nasolabilal folds (the creases that run from the side of the nose to the corners of the mouth), and rejuvenation of the hands.

Dermal fillers can be composed of a variety of substances, some naturally occurring and some synthetic. One of the most common compounds used in dermal fillers is hyaluronic acid (HA).

HA is a naturally occurring substance found in our skin, and it plays a major role in keeping skin hydrated and voluminous.

HA fillers, depending on their specific chemical makeup, can last from six months to much longer before being gradually absorbed by the body.

One of the main benefits of HA fillers, aside from their natural appearance when injected, is that they can be dissolved by a special solution in case of an adverse event, or if the person dislikes the appearance. Also, most HA fillers are premixed with lidocaine, a numbing agent, to maximize comfort during treatment.

Other available dermal fillers include those made from calcium hydroxylapatite, poly-L-lactic acid, polymethyl methacrylate, and autologous fat (fat that is transplanted from another part of your body).

Calcium hydroxylapatite is a minerallike compound naturally found in human bones. It has been used in dentistry and reconstructive plastic surgery for years

with a long track record of safety.

Poly-L-lactic acid is a synthetic filler that helps stimulate collagen production. This filler is different from other fillers because its results are gradual. Volumization occurs over several months as it stimulates the body to produce collagen.

Polymethyl methacrylate is a semi-permanent filler. While it is more durable compared to other more readily biodegradable fillers, it has potential complications such as forming lumps or being visible under the skin.

Get professional advice Each of these substances has its own pros and cons, as well as a unique density, longevity and texture, which means a particular material may be more or less suited to a specific area of the face or desired result.

Choosing the right type of dermal filler requires the guidance of an experienced, board-certified dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon with a thorough understanding of facial anatomy and familiarity with the variety of available fillers and their respective injection techniques.

A medical professional will thoroughly See DERMAL FILLERS, page 7

Coronavirus From page 4 tion 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.

Don’t ignore the seasonal flu It’s also important to remember that we are still in the middle of the seasonal flu season, which impacts older adults every year. According to the CDC, it’s estimated that 70 to 85% of seasonal flu-related deaths have occurred in people aged 65 or over.

While there is no vaccine for the coronavirus, it’s never too late for individuals to get their annual flu shot. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about how you can protect yourself and those around you.

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 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.

Superfoods From page 4 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 or-

ange, 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 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,

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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.

BEACON BITS

Apr. 11

MORNING HIKE Hike 3 miles to the Patapsco River and surround yourself with the

animals and plants of spring. An easy-to-moderate walk is available. Bring water.

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Clinical Studies ❏ Heart Attack/Stroke/Circulation Study (see ad on page 15) ❏ Depression Mushroom Study (see article on page 15)

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Dermal filler procedures can be expensive, which has prompted some consumers to turn to the black market online to purchase do-it-yourself fillers.

The Food and Drug Administration has issued an official warning urging consumers to “never buy dermal fillers on the Internet. They may be fake, contaminated

★ F R EE I N FOR MATION ★ F R EE I N FOR MATION ★ F R EE I N FOR MATION ★

Please provide your e-mail address if you would like to receive monthly links to the Beacon online and occasional notices of events and programs of interest.

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Check the boxes you’re interested in and return this form to: The Beacon, P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915 or fax to (410) 248-9102.

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Avoid black market fillers

or visit hcconservancy.org.

F R EE

evaluate any specific areas of concern, understand what you hope to get out of the procedure, and review what to expect before, during and after the treatment to ensure the best cosmetic outcome.

Pleasant, 10520 Old Frederick Rd., Woodstock. To register, call (410) 465-8877

F R EE

From page 6

The free event will be held on Sat., April 11 from 10 a.m. to noon at Mt.

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Dermal fillers

or harmful.”

Dermal fillers are safe and effective in the right hands. Finding the right physician to perform your dermal filler procedure is key.

Don’t be afraid to ask about training and certification to ensure you’re receiving care from a board-certified, experienced dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon.

With the right preparation and communication with your physician, you can achieve natural, beautiful and safe results.

Kristina Liu, M.D., M.H.S., is a contributor to Harvard Health Publications. © 2020 President and Fellows of Harvard College. All rights reserved. Distributed

by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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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.

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?

OTC pain meds work, too

When an opioid makes sense

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

Of course, there are times when the overthe-counter medications are not going to be sufficient to treat acute pain. In those situations, the goal should be to take non-prescription 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 recommendations 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.

Use minimally, if at all My general recommendation for opioidnaïve patients, regardless of age, is this: 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.

For more severe pain, such as from fractures or after surgery, 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.

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9

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 plastic 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 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 X-

rays, 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 low-impact 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.

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Is recurring stomach pain from an ulcer?

By Robert Kraichely, M.D. Dear Mayo Clinic: I thought I had an ulcer, but my doctor ruled that out and wants to run tests. He said it could be functional dyspepsia. What causes this, and is it treatable?

A: Functional dyspepsia (also called nonulcer dyspepsia) and peptic ulcers can feel much the same.

But unlike a peptic ulcer, which involves open sores in the digestive tract, functional dyspepsia involves recurring indigestion

or stomach pain that has no obvious cause.

Common signs and symptoms of functional dyspepsia include a burning sensation or discomfort in your upper abdomen or lower chest, bloating, belching, an early feeling of fullness when eating and nausea.

While not life-threatening, the symptoms can significantly affect your quality of life.

Use of endoscopy One component to help with diagnosis is endoscopy, in which a thin, flexible,

lighted instrument (endoscope) is passed down your throat so that your doctor can view your esophagus, stomach and the first part of your small intestine.

Endoscopy also allows your doctor to collect small pieces of tissue (biopsy) from your stomach or duodenum to look for inflammation or cancerous growths.

Your healthcare provider can determine whether an endoscopy is needed, but endoscopy generally is recommended in adults 60 and older who have symptoms. A normal result on this test most often indicates functional dyspepsia.

Endoscopy also may be performed on adults younger than 60 who have “alarm” features — such as weight loss, anemia, difficulty swallowing or persistent vomiting — along with dyspepsia symptoms.

If no abnormal results are found with endoscopy, a noninvasive breath or stool test to check for the Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacterial infection may follow to guide the course of treatment.

This test also is used for adults under 60 with no alarm features. If H. pylori is present, your healthcare provider may recommend an antibiotic to eliminate the infection.

Ways to reduce stomach acid For those who test negative for the bacterium, as well as for those whose symp-

toms persist after antibiotic treatment and clearance of H. pylori, the first line of treatment is to reduce stomach acid.

This may be performed using two types of medications: proton pump inhibitors or H2-receptor blockers.

Proton pump inhibitors reduce acid by shutting down the tiny pumps within stomach cells. Examples include esomeprazole (Nexium), lansoprazole (Prevacid) and omeprazole (Prilosec).

H2-receptor blockers, including famotidine (Pepcid) and ranitidine (Zantac), reduce acid production by blocking histamine receptors in stomach cells.

Cognitive behavioral therapy also may be recommended as a way to cope with the symptoms and reduce the stress that may trigger stomach pain.

Because functional dyspepsia lacks a fully understood cause and its symptoms overlap with other gastrointestinal conditions, the diagnosis of functional dyspepsia can be challenging. Researchers continue to explore better means of clearly identifying it.

Email a question to MayoClinicQ&A@ mayo.edu. For more information, visit mayoclinic.org. © 2019 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

KNOW before you THROW GENERAL RULES

Paper (newspaper, office paper)

Keep it loose, lose the bag.

Plastic (bottles, tubs, jugs, jars)

Metal (aluminum & steel cans, EMPTY aerosol cans)

Glass (bottles & jars)

Cardboard (clean & flattened)

Place recyclables loosely together.

No need to remove lids, caps or labels from items.

Make sure containers are CLEAN, EMPTY, and DRY.

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H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — A P R I L 2 0 2 0

11

New cookbook aims to bring out flavors

Easy Indian 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.

Directions: Preheat oven to 350° 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 cook-

ing ends.

Place the pan or dish into the oven and cook for 30 minutes or until the fish is just cooked (time will vary depending on its thickness and variety. See note above.)

Serve with basmati rice and a salad or vegetable, and you will have a wonderful Indian-style meal ready in less than an hour.

Deep Flavors, published by Inspire on Purpose, is available from Amazon.com for $39.95 ($9.99 on Kindle). For more about the author and the book, visit deepflavorscookbook.com.

Coconut-curry fish 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

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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!

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Bikers From page 1 in a 24-to-30-mile ride. But I get there.”

As her 80th birthday approaches in July, Kelly has decided to celebrate the milestone (when the weather is better, in September) with an 80-mile bike ride — one mile for each year — along the flat roads of the Eastern shore.

Saul Zuckman, a Columbia accountant who celebrated his 80th birthday last month, has been cycling for the last 50 years. He was one of Cycle2Health’s founding members in 2010 and has been pedaling in the group ever since.

That year, he participated in a crosscountry race from San Diego to Annapolis (the Race Across America). “We rode for 40 minutes, had a three-hour rest period, rode again, rested again — for seven-anda-half days,” Zuckman recalled. “At age 70, I was the oldest biker to finish the race.”

“I’m still active as a cyclist,” he said, “but I’m riding a little slower nowadays — and not as far.” Nevertheless, like Kelly, he hopes to be pedaling “into my 90s.”

When in doubt, use e-bikes Dr. Martin Wasserman, 77, another C2H leader and a former Maryland Secretary of Health and Mental Hygiene (from 1994 to 1999), has just purchased two ebikes for him and his wife, Barbara.

E-bikes have small electric motors to

give riders a boost whenever needed, whether on steep climbs or over long distances. Wasserman said he made the purchases after he and his wife spent last summer riding e-bikes around Europe.

While both are C2H members, they ride in separate groups because he is a more experienced cyclist.

A three-year veteran of the C2H program, Wasserman said he joined “to keep myself physically active, and for the social opportunity to meet new people.

“When you are riding alone, there are certain safety concerns. It’s much safer when you are riding along with 20 other bikers.”

Benefits immune system Besides the social and safety benefits, cycling is (as the group’s name suggests) healthy. Scientists at the University of Birmingham in England carried out tests on 125 amateur cyclists between 55 and 79.

In the study, which was published in the journal Aging Cell in 2018, the cyclists preserved more muscle mass and strength as they aged compared with non-cyclists.

Men who biked also maintained higher testosterone levels.

In addition, the study found that biking boosts the immune system. The thymus, an organ that produces white blood cells, generally starts to shrink after the age of 20. But with the cyclists, their thymuses

A P R I L 2 0 2 0 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

were still producing the quantity of white blood cells a young person’s would.

Zuckman, who was diagnosed with diabetes in 1991, can personally attest to the benefits he has experienced. He said that biking in C2H has been “a big help” in stabilizing his blood sugar.

Biking has mental health benefits, too.

Bike commuters are happier and less prone to depression than people who walk, drive or use public transportation, according to the 2018 study.

Overall, cycling prolongs life. It decreases the risk of death by more than 40% and the risk of cancer and heart disease by 45%, according to a different study published in 2017 in the British Medical Journal.

Choose your exertion level Howard County has more than 100 miles of shared bike paths and walking trails on which residents can take advantage of these health benefits.

This season’s C2H rides, mostly scheduled during the daytime and on weekdays, will begin on the first Tuesday in May. The organized rides run Tuesdays and Thursdays through November, and all Howard County residents are welcome to participate.

“Although the program is designed with 50+ individuals in mind, we welcome absolutely anyone with a bike,” said Malarie Burgess, who heads the county govern-

ment program. “Young riders, working riders and new riders have also joined the program.”

The rides offered by C2H are of three different levels. So-called “casual rides” for beginners are “less than 12 miles on a relatively flat terrain at a relaxed pace on pathways, trails or quiet residential streets with frequent re-grouping,” according to the county.

Moderate rides of 15 to 20 miles usually consist of “some moderate short hills and maybe a longer hill.” The bikers in that group “should be comfortable riding in some traffic and know basic group riding etiquette.”

“Advanced rides” are 18 miles or longer and include “steep hills with limited rest stops.” The program officials note that “riders should be aware of their riding ability and limitations before participating in an advanced ride.”

Each member provides her or his own bicycle, helmet, water, spare tube, air pump and tools to change a flat tire. Participants are also advised to bring “snack/lunch money, as rides may conclude with a lunch outing.”

Howard County residents can now register for the 2020 Cycle2Health program online at cycle2healthhowardcounty@gmail.com or at the county’s 50+ (senior) centers.

The annual fee is $15 per biker. For more information, call (410) 313-6073 or email mburgess@howardcountymd.gov.

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H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — A P R I L 2 0 2 0

13

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.

Psoriasis is the result of an overactive immune system that causes a rapid turnover of skin cells and leads to cells piling up on the surface.

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 developing heart disease and having a 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 cho-

lesterol (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) A statin dose tailored to the individual is more important than reaching a particular target number.

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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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.

Read us online at TheBeaconNewspapers.com | Fitness & Health

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Health Studies

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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.

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.

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

Have you ever had a heart attack or stroke?

BEACON BITS

Apr. 2

GENES, LIFESTYLE CHOICES AND HEALTH

The Central Branch Library hosts Dr. Jyothio Rao for a talk on autoimmune illness on Thurs., April 2 at 7:30 p.m. Advance registration is required. For more information, visit the library at 10375 Little Patuxent Pkwy., Columbia or call (410) 313-7800.

Apr. 4

DIET AND MS

Debbie McGrann, author of The Accidental Cure, will present her health story at a wellness workshop on Sat., April 4. The free lecture, “Is There a Cure for Multiple Sclerosis?� will take place from 2 to 4 p.m. at Coldwell Banker, 6031 University Blvd., #100, Ellicott City. Please RSVP at (410) 531-5201.

Apr. 7

OPIOID TRAINING

Save a life and learn how to administer Narcan, an opioid-overdose reversing medication. The free class will be held on Tues., April 7 at 3 p.m. at the Howard County Health Department, 8930 Stanford Blvd., Columbia. For more information, call (410) 313-6202.

Apr. 15

Have you considered participating in a clinical study?

Participating in a clinical study can improve future treatment options for you and other people with cardiovascular diseases Research has shown that treatment with semaglutide may reduce the risk of stroke and heart attack in people with type 2 diabetes. In a study called SELECT, we will check to see if semaglutide reduces the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attack and stroke in people with overweight or obesity.

FREE BLOOD PRESSURE SCREENINGS

Howard County General Hospital will offer free blood pressure screening on a walk-in basis from 10 a.m. to noon on Wed., April 15 at Savage Branch Library, 9525 Durnees Ln., Laurel. For more information, call the library at (410) 313-0390.

Ongoing

Do you have poor circulation?

LOAN CLOSET REOPENS

The Loan Closet of Howard County featuring refurbished wheelchairs and other medical equipment has reopened at a new location, 7125 Riverwood Dr., Columbia. County-operated, some 12,000 residents have used the service since it opened in 2009. To learn more, call (410) 313-0363.

What are the benefits of being involved in the SELECT study? • Study-related care, including regular health check-ups • General talks with a dedicated team of doctors and nurses • Guidance on healthy lifestyle choices

THIS STUDY IS CURRENTLY RECRUITING For more information, please contact: 4UVEZ $PPSEJOBUPS )FBUIFS %ZF 4UVEZ 4JUF $FOUFOOJBM .FEJDBM (SPVQ

1IPOF &NBJM IEZF!DFOUFOOJBMNFEJDBM DPN Trial ID: EX9536-4388, version 1.0, date 18-MAY-2018, Global Master

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What’s going on in HoCo? Crafts & Fine Arts Fused Glass Workshop

Learn the art of fusing glass! Make fused glass objects such as jewelry, an ornament, or another small item. Hear about different types of glass and how they can fire together.

Instructor: Tara Holl Classes: 1 $30 materials fee RP3531.701 Gary J Arthur Comm Ctr Apr 4 9am-noon Sa $30

Pastel Painting For Beginners

Learn techniques and execution of pastel painting with demonstrations.

You are welcome to work independently while receiving instructor input. Materials list will be emailed.

Instructor: Tara Holl Classes: 4 RP3545.701 Elkridge 50+ Ctr Apr 21 6-8pm Tu $49

Pastel Painting Workshop

Learn pastel painting techniques. This workshop is beneficial for those interested in Pastel Painting for Beginners.

Instructor: Tara Holl Classes: 1 Materials included RP3549.701 Elkridge 50+ Ctr Apr 7 6-8pm Tu $45

You & Yupo Encore is specifically-designed for those at least 55 years old.

Info: www.howardcountymd.gov/encore.

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

Yupo is a polypropylene sheet that does not absorb watercolor paint.

Learn special techniques and watercolor paint additions that enable control, texture, washes and glazes.

Classes: 5 Gary J. Arthur Comm Ctr RP0309.701 May 4 1:15-3:15pm M $89

Sports & Fitness Encore Adventures

Try your hand at a variety of outdoor skills, including fishing, paddling a kayak, archery and more! Earn a certificate and patch for completing five or more Encore Adventure activities within a two-year period. No experience necessary and all equipment is provided. Info: Dawn Thomas, 410-313-1754 or visit www.howardcountymd.gov/adventure.

Intro to Fishing

Learn or review how to cast, identify fish, rig a pole, tie knots, and much more.

RP9171.701 Centennial Pk South Apr 30 9:30am-noon Th $25

Guided Walk Exploring the Spring Migration

Join us for a guided walk around Centennial Lake to observe warblers, waterfowl and other native birds. Receive a field guide to start your own birdwatching checklist.

RP9171.702 Centennial Pk South May 14 9:30-11am Th $25

Paddling

Learn kayaking techniques, safety and gear selection during this American Canoe Association-certified instructional program.

RP9171.703 Centennial Pk South May 28 9:30-11:30am Th

Archery

$35

Learn the basics of target archery with a USA Archery-certified instructor.

RP9171.704 Centennial Pk South Jun 4 9:30-11:30am Th $35

• Fitness waiver must be completed prior to exercising.

• Info: Scott Ripley, 410-313-7281 or sripley@howardcountymd.gov.

UnBarred with Doreen Sheppard

UnBarred movements are inspired by ballet, yoga, Pilates, and functional movements but without a ballet barre. Classes include modifications for any level, so you may feel successful while achieving an amazing workout that lengthens, strengthens and tones your body.

55 yrs + St. Mark’s Episcopal Church Classes: 6 RP3563.701 Apr 1 11:30am-12:30pm W $69

HC Bocce League

Join the HC Bocce League for fun play with active aging men and women. Great for all levels. Register individually or as a team.

League is seven weeks with playoffs and championship on week 8.

55 yrs + Cedar Lane Park No play 5/9-5/23 RP3539.701 Apr 4 9-11am Sa $75/Team RP3539.703 Apr 4 9-11am Sa $15/Ind RP3539.702 Apr 6 1-3 pm M $75/Team RP3539.704 Apr 6 1-3 pm M $15/Ind

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — A P R I L 2 0 2 0

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HOWARD COUNTY RECREATION & PARKS

Yoga in the Park Pop-Ups

Relax while you take in the sights and surrounding beauty of nature as you get fit and improve your health. Join us for the classes that fit your schedule!

55 yrs + Classes: 1 RP3541.702 Belmont Manor Apr 13 10-11am M $20 RP3541.701 Centennial Pk Apr 20 10-11am M $20

LaBlast

LaBlast is a revolutionary, partner-free fitness program based on the ballroom dances seen on Dancing with the Stars!

Roger Carter Comm Ctr Classes: 6 RP3561.702 Apr 15 1:30-2:30pm W $65

Balance, Strength & Fitness with Lori Nowicki

With the use of the BOSU stability ball, light weights and resistance bands, the active adult will learn exercises which involve training the body for the activities performed in daily life.

55 yrs + Cedar Lane Pk West Classes: 7 No class 5/25 RP3516.701 Apr 20 10:45-11:30am M $69

Pickleball NEW! FIT2020 with Christopher Towle

This class will focus on the BIG 3 of a proper fitness class and program; strength, cardiovascular and joint mobility (Flexibility).

55 yrs + Roger Carter Comm Ctr RP3566.701 Apr 4 9-10am Sa $65 Classes: 6 RP3566.702 Apr 7 2-3pm Tu, Th $95 Classes: 12

HIIT Workouts with Lauren Daly

A fast-paced interval training workout designed to burn calories and build strength in just 30 minutes.

55 yrs + Classes: 8 No class 4/18, 6/27, 7/4 RP3525.701 Roger Carter Comm Ct Apr 4 8:15-8:45am Sa $60

Cardio Kickboxing for Active Adults

A 30-minute cardio boxing and kickboxing workout set to high energy music. Modifications for all fitness levels.

55 yrs + Classes: 12 RP3524.701 Roger Carter Comm Ctr Apr 6 8:30-9am M,W $55

Fun with Fitness

Keep your muscles and joint happy and healthy by combining upbeat fun music, great energy, and just the right tempo with both seated and standing exercise. We use dumbbells, resistance bands, and a small exercise ball to help improve flexibility, coordination, strength, balance, and joint mobility.

55 yrs + Roger Carter Comm Ctr Classes: 7 RP3560.701 Apr 6 1-1:50pm M $69

Monday Mornings at the Barre with Margaret Wolf, ACE

A fusion of yoga, Pilates, strength training and ballet; barre classes incorporate specific sequencing patterns and isometric movements that target specific muscle groups. Class improves strength, balance, flexibility and posture.

55 yrs + Classes: 6 RP3550.701 Gary J Arthur Comm Ctr Apr 6 11am-noon M $49

Gentle Yoga/Yoga 1 with Kathy Whelan, RYT-200

This yoga class is suitable for both new and continuing students preferring a less vigorous version of a Yoga 1 class. Move through poses to increase flexibility, strength and balance while emphasizing mindfulness and breath awareness.

55 yrs + Classes: 8 RP3515.701 Elkridge 50+ Ctr Apr 7 6-7pm Tu $69

Programs, classes, leagues, and tournaments offered.

Visit www.howardcounytmd.gov/pickleball.

Lifelong Learning Basics of Mindful Meditation

Learn meditation techniques and discover applications for mindfulness.

Enhance positivity and self-awareness. Studies show benefits to one’s health.

Instructor: Nancy Holt Classes: 4 RP3546.701 Elkridge 50+ Ctr Apr 2 7-8pm Th $39

Mindful Meditation for Grief, Loss, Anxiety & Depression

Using the principles of mindful meditation, journaling and community support, learn methods to release pain and uncover the peace that already flows within.

Instructor: Nancy Holt Classes: 6 RP3559.701 Roger Carter Comm Ctr Apr 6 11am-noon M $59

Speaker Series Managing Your Money

Discuss where to find the income you’ll need to live on after retirement.

The Sandwich Generation, Money Matters Instructor: Bradley Fine How to manage the financial demands of your children, parents and/or other family members.

RP3506.704 Roger Carter Comm Ctr Apr 2 1-3pm Th $20 RP3506.705 Gary J Arthur Comm Ctr Apr 9 6-8pm Th $20 Bonds & Stocks, Tax-Thoughtful Investing for your Life Cycles Instructor: Bradley Fine Applying thoughtful tax-efficient bond and stock allocations.

RP3506.706 Roger Carter Comm Ctr Apr 16 1-3pm Th $20 RP3506.707 Gary J Arthur Comm Ctr Apr 30 6-8pm Th $20

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HOWARD COUNTY RECREATION & PARKS

Ford’s Theatre Presents Guys and Dolls

RP4530.701 All ages Apr 4 Noon-5:30pm Sa $129

Baltimore Symphony Orchestra: The Wizard of Oz

RP4531.701 All ages Apr 19 1:30-6:30pm Su $119

Museum of the Bible RP4550.701 All ages Apr 30 9am-4pm Th

$79

National Cathedral Flower Mart RP4533.701

16 yrs +

May 1

9am-3pm

F

$59

United States National Arboretum RP4534.701 All ages May 8 9am-3pm F $59

National Museum of the American Indian RP4535.701 All ages May 14 9am-4pm Th

$59

United States Capitol • View all trips at www.howardcountymd.gov/tripsandtours.

• Registration: 410-313-7275, www.howardcountymd.gov/rap, or 7120 Oakland Mills Road, Columbia, MD 21046 • Information: Tracy Adkins, 410-313-7279, tadkins@howardcountymd.gov • Pick-up locations: Bain 50+ Ctr and Long Gate Park & Ride

RP4536.701

16 yrs +

May 28 TBD Th

$69

Cape Cod, Massachusetts (Four night trip) RP4549.101 Single Occupancy Sep 20 $1,199 RP4549.102 Double Occupancy Sep 20 $950

HOWARD COUNTY RECREATION & PARKS

NOW HIRING!

Our GO50+ membership packages are designed to enhance the quality of life for the 50+ adult population that lives, works and plays in Howard County.

Live longer, healthier lives… join today!

www.howardcountymd.gov/OOAHealthandWellness

CHILDCARE

LIFEGUARDS

INSTRUCTORS

PROGRAM DIRECTORS

SPORTS COACHES

AND MANY MORE!

For more information please visit us online at www.howardcountymd.gov/hcrpjobs or call 410-313-4700.

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — A P R I L 2 0 2 0

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HOWARD COUNTY RECREATION & PARKS

Adult Astronomy & Nature Events Belmont Blockbusters

Experience the beautiful setting of Belmont Manor & Historic Park with your friends and family at this outdoor movie series! Movie starts shortly after sundown (dusk). Arrive early to enjoy the gardens. Our large movie screen is in the formal garden behind the Manor. Bring a picnic, blanket or lawn chairs. Popcorn is available.

Inclement weather: www.belmontmanormd.org or 410-313-0200.

June 18

Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (PG-13)

July 16

Up (PG)

August 13

Onward (not yet rated)

6555 Belmont Woods Road, Elkridge, MD 21075 410-313-0200 | www.belmontmanormd.org belmontmanormd@howardcountymd.gov @belmontmanorhouse

Call 410-313-0400 for info or to register. More programs listed at www.howardcountymd.gov/RNC/programs.

Friday Evenings Under the Dome

Treat your partner or friends to a unique Friday night experience of top-notch astronomy and entertainment at the Robinson Nature Center. This program is held in the Center’s planetarium/ dome movie theater and features a full-dome movie preceded by an adult-level planetarium presentation about current happenings in our night sky and space science. No late seating.

18 yrs + 8-9pm $7 per ticket RP4800.701 NEW! Planets and Galaxies Revealed Apr 3 F RP4800.702 NEW! Lives of Stars May 1 F

Space Matters

Join us one Thursday a month in our planetarium to discover what lies beyond our planet! Each program features a presentation about current happenings in the sky and recent developments in space science. Some presentations are complemented with a half-hour movie projected in 360º on the planetarium’s domed ceiling or with hands-on demonstrations. Please note we require attendees to check in and be seated 15 minutes prior to the show.

Due to dark conditions, we cannot safely accommodate late seating.

55 yrs + 2:30-3:45pm Th $9 per ticket RP4804.701 NEW! Planets and Galaxies Revealed Apr 9 RP4804.702 NEW! Live of Stars May 14

Adult Flashlight Egg Hunt

Adults embark on a nighttime egg hunt using flashlights and your wits to search for hundreds of eggs hidden inside the Robinson Nature Center and on its trails! Collect as many as you can for chances to win passes to local attractions, gift cards to stores, coupons to restaurants and more. Preregister as space is limited. Rain date for April 24 hunt is May 8 and for the May 22 hunt is May 29.

21 yrs + RP4874.701 Apr 24 8-10pm F $29 RP4874.711 May 22 8-10pm F $29

Stroll and Paint

For a full list of adult classes, go to www.howardcountymd.gov/adultprograms.

Get active and artsy, no experience needed! Discover seasonal wonders on a guided walk, then paint the landscape “en plein air” (outdoors). Artist Tara S. Holl demonstrates techniques in oils and provides tips, tricks and feedback. Light snacks and easels provided, pack a lunch. Register by May 22. Materials list emailed to participants one week prior to class.

55 yrs + Instructor: Tara Holl RP4843.701 May 30 9am-1pm Sa $45

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A Publication of the Department of Community Resources and Services

2020 Census Counts Every Generation April 1 is Census Day!

E

very 10 years, the United States counts everyone who lives in the country, from newborn babies to the oldest among us. It is important for everyone to complete the 2020 Census so that communities like Howard County can be accurately funded and represented.

According to AARP, older Americans have been more likely than other age groups to return their U.S. census forms and make sure they were counted. But experts say there may be challenges in getting older people to participate in the 2020 Census since it is the first to be completed largely online. A recent U.S. Census Bureau survey found that 56 percent of those 65 and older aren’t comfortable with an online response and prefer to fill out a paper census form.

Postcards mailed to residents in mid-March have instructions on how to respond to the census online, by phone, or by mail. Choose the option that is most comfortable for you. Large-print guides to the questionnaire are also available upon request. From May to July, census takers will visit households that have not yet responded and can help you complete your form.

Census2020 results will influence community funding and congressional representation for Howard County over the next decade. This includes funding for programs and services that directly impact older adults, such as first responders; Medicare Part B; libraries and community centers; plus the Supportive Housing for the Elderly, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Senior Community Service Employment Program.

By law, your Census responses can only be used to produce statistics; this information cannot be shared with law enforcement agencies or used against you by any government agency or court in any way.

If you have questions or need assistance, contact us at 410-313-6325 (voice/relay), visit www.howardcountymd.gov/census2020, or email census2020@howardcountymd.gov.

Volume 10, No. 4 • April 2020

A Message from Howard County Executive

Calvin Ball April may bring warmer weather and rain showers, but it’s also a month that has long been associated with taxes. This month I’d like to highlight our tax credits available to older adults that support aging in place, tax preparation help at our 50+ centers, volunteer appreciation week, and how to complete the U.S. Census to ensure we receive critical federal funds.

Tax credits available to older adults include the Aging in Place Tax Credit, Senior Property Tax Credit, and the Livable Homes Property Tax Credit. These tax credits are designed to provide support for property owners to help the older adult population remain in their homes and continue to thrive in our community. Each tax credit has varying eligibility requirements and due dates. For detailed information and applications, please visit our newly-launched constituent portal at services. howardcountymd.gov or contact Maryland Access Point (MAP) with the Office on Aging and Independence for additional information.

If you need help preparing your taxes, AARP and the IRS are offering personal income tax preparation for Howard County residents through April 15, available to all middle-and low-income taxpayers, with emphasis on those age 60 and older. To schedule an appointment, call your local 50+ Center or 443-741-1220.

April 1 is National Census Day, if you haven’t already completed your census questionnaire, be sure to take some time in the next month to complete it online, by phone, or by mail. The Census ensures that Howard County and our community receives the federal funds needed for our population — for hospitals, roads, support services under the federal Older Americans Act, and other vital programs. Please be sure to complete your census, so that all our residents are counted.

Last but not least, during National Volunteer Week (April 19-25), I hope you will join me to recognize and thank the many volunteers who lend their time, talent and voice to make a difference throughout Howard County. Doing good comes in many forms, and we recognize and celebrate them all!

The 50+ Connection is published monthly by the Howard County Office on Aging and Independence.

This publication is available in alternate formats upon request.

To join our subscriber list, email kahenry@howardcountymd.gov 9830 Patuxent Woods Drive, Columbia, MD 21046 410-313-6410 (VOICE/RELAY) • www.howardcountymd.gov/aging Find us on

Registration is now open for the 2020 season of Cycle2Health, Howard County’s non-competitive, peer-led, bicycling club for adults of all ages and riding abilities, coordinated by the Office on Aging and Independence. For more information and to register, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/C2H.

www.Facebook.com/HoCoCommunity

Kim Higdon Henry, Editor • Email: kahenry@howardcountymd.gov Advertising contained in the Beacon is not endorsed by the Office on Aging and Independence or by the publisher.

The 50+ Connection

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24th Annual Women’s Hall of Fame Howard County Inducts Five New Members

Barbara Allen

Evelyn O. A. Darden

Lori A. Fuchs

Terri L. Hill

Tracey L. Williams

H

oward County Executive Calvin Ball and the Commission for Women have inducted five local women into the 2020 Women’s Hall of Fame. This class of inductees includes Barbara Allen, founder of James Place, Inc., and a tireless advocate for addiction-related policymaking and treatment; Evelyn O. A. Darden, a distinguished Maryland attorney and a staunch advocate for equal pay for women and civil rights; Lori A. Fuchs, a longtime community supporter of education, disability services, workforce development, and equity for women; Terri L. Hill, Maryland’s 12th District delegate since 2015 and a groundbreaking physician and plastic surgeon; and Tracey L. Williams, a respected leader in K through 12 education and a catalyst in the creation of Howard County’s inaugural expungement fair. “These five dynamic women have made meaningful impacts on our county, and it is quite fitting for them to be honored by the Commission for Women in the Hall of Fame,” said County Executive Ball. “Our communities are more empowered because of their dedicated service to others and I am grateful for their contributions to Howard County."

Quilters Spread Goodwill One Stitch at a Time April is Volunteer Appreciation Month

The Faithful Circle Quilter’s group is just one example of how doing something you love can benefit others.

D

uring April, the Department of Community Resources and Services (DCRS) will highlight the contributions volunteers make every day to support the work of our offices, boards and commissions. The Faithful Circle Quilters is one such group.

The group makes and donates hand-stitched items for six local charities, including Project Holiday and the Loan Closet through the Office on Aging and Independence. “We share friendship and camaraderie as we work on the quilts together,” said organizer Sue Scott.

“Knowing that the quilts will brighten someone’s day makes it even better.”

“Often times the smallest acts of volunteering have the biggest impact,” says Darlene Vaselaros, DCRS volunteer coordinator. “Today and every day, we say "thank you" to our amazing volunteers!” Visit www.hocovolunteer.org for other volunteer opportunities.

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The 50+ Connection

Subscribe for half-price. See p. 34

A P R I L 2 0 2 0 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

LISTENING SESSIONS 50+ Center Highlights Free Blood Pressure Screenings Offered

H

oward County Executive Calvin Ball announces a series of listening sessions to be held this spring to gather more input from residents about the Age-Friendly Howard County Initiative. Residents will have the opportunity to share their views on what is working for them, what is still needed, and what improvements will make Howard County a more age-friendly community.

The Age-Friendly steering committee and workgroups will take these issues into consideration as they develop a five-year action plan for Howard County residents, organizations, businesses, and government agencies. Session dates and locations will be posted on www.howardcountymd.gov/agefriendly, on Facebook, and at all Howard County 50+ Centers and Community Centers.

For questions, email agefriendly@howardcountymd.gov.

Explore Your Personal HEALTH AND WELLNESS from both Traditional and Integrative Perspectives!

The Office on Aging and Independence encourages older adults in Howard County to take a more active role in monitoring their health conditions. The American Heart Association recommends regular self-monitoring at home for everyone who has high blood pressure. If you don’t have access to a home monitor, take advantage of free blood pressure screenings offered at the following 50+ Centers:

BAIN 50+ CENTER April 2 | May 7 | June 4 • 10:00 a.m. to noon ELKRIDGE LIBRARY April 14 | May 12 | June 9 • 1:00 to 3:00 p.m.

ELLICOTT CITY 50+ CENTER April 7 | May 5 | June 2 • 9:00 a.m. to noon GLENWOOD 50+ CENTER April 28 | May 26 | June 23 • 8:30 to 11:30 a.m.

SAVAGE LIBRARY April 13 | May 11 | June 8 • 10:00 a.m. to noon For more information, contact Jennifer Lee at 410-313-5940 (voice/relay) or jlee@howardcountymd.gov

Next Steps: Creating a New Future After Loss ELLICOTT CITY 50+ CENTER Wednesdays, April 8 – May 13 • 10:00 to 11:30 a.m.

Friday, May 15 • 9 AM TO 2 PM ELKRIDGE 50+ CENTER

This facilitated, small group discussion tackles issues of personal identity and life changes after experiencing a loss. Using a variety of approaches, participants will explore how to build self-esteem and confidence; make new choices; and create positive thinking for the future. FREE. Pre-register

by April 1. For more information, contact Karen Hull at 410-313-7466 (voice/relay) or email khull@howardcountymd.gov.

6540 Washington Boulevard, Elkridge 21075

Intergenerational Fun at the Children's Discovery Fair PRESENTED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE

Howard County Health Department • Local Health Improvement Coalition and the Maryland University of Integrative Health

410-313-5192 • elkridge50@howardcountymd.gov

www.howardcountymd.gov/aging

VETERANS Resource Fair Tuesday, April 21 • 4 TO 7 PM Howard Community College Galleria, 10901 Little Patuxent Parkway Columbia 21044

NORTH LAUREL COMMUNITY CENTER Saturday, April 18 • 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Grandparents, bring your grandchildren to move, groove, and discover hands-on learning activities and preschool movement concepts. This free event features interactive games, songs, crafts, and stories suitable for children ages 3 to 5, and offers free dental screenings for kids two to 12.

For details, email children@howardcountymd.gov or call 410-313-1940.

An opportunity for local veterans and military families to meet with agencies and organizations dedicated to providing services, support and jobs to veterans. All active, guard and reserve veterans are invited to attend.

JOIN US FOR

FREE Medical and Dental Screenings • Workshops Over 50 Service Vendors • Auricular Acupuncture Equine, Canine, Motorcycle and Art Therapy Services Entertainment • and more!

FREE ADMISSION. Registration is encouraged; for details and to register: hocoveteransfair.eventbrite.com

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CHARITABLE GIVING Understand the latest tax rules when giving to your favorite charities. It makes sense to donate every other year, and consider donating directly from your IRA

Money Law &

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 ganization devoted to investor protection are the leading products or in the United States, Canada schemes that are likely to and Mexico. It is the voice of trap investors in 2020, accord50 state security agencies reing to Christopher Gerold, sponsible for efficient capital the president of the North formation and grassroots inAmerican Securities Adminisvestor protection. trators Association (NASAA).

I spoke with Gerold and Also on the top five list other NASAA representatives (based on investor complaints to determine how investors and ongoing investigations) can protect themselves are real estate investments, against common signs of incr yptocurrency-related in- THE SAVINGS vestment scams. vestments, and social media- GAME According to Gerold, the and internet-based invest- By Elliot Raphaelson most common telltale sign of ment schemes. an investment scam is an offer NASAA is the oldest international or- of guaranteed high returns with no risk.

He also indicated that many of the threats facing investors involve private offerings, which are exempt from federal securities registration requirements and are not sold through public stock exchanges.

He recommended NASAA’s investor fraud quiz (nasaa.org/investor-education/investment-fraud-awareness-quiz). I took the quiz and found it to be informative.

Here are some of the questions and answers (see the website for a detailed discussion of the answers to the quiz): 1. Which of the following phrases should raise your concern about an investment? a. High rate of return b. Risk-free

c. Guaranteed against loss d. You must invest now e. All of the above Answer: e. Beware of any salesperson who tells you an investment is risk-free and provides a guaranteed high rate of return.

2. Security laws protect investors by requiring companies to: a. Show profits before they can sell stock b. Provide investors with specific information about the company c. Pay dividends d. Repay investors who have lost money See FINANCIAL FRAUD, page 25

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A P R I L 2 0 2 0 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

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. [For more about required minimum distributions, see “New law changes RMD and IRA rules” in the January Beacon.]

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 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.

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — A P R I L 2 0 2 0

Financial fraud From page 23 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 low-risk 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

BEACON BITS

Apr. 2

RETIREMENT AND ESTATE PLANNING

Miller Branch Library will host a discussion on financial consideration of seniors led by retirement and estate planners Elville and Associates of Baltimore and Baltimore-Washington Financial Advisors. The session is scheduled for Thurs., April 2 from 2 to 3 p.m. at the library, 9421 Frederick Rd., Ellicott City. Registration is required, either by phone at (410) 3131950 or online at hclibrary.org/classes-events.

Apr. 16

ADVANCED PLANNING, LIVING WILLS

Howard County General Hospital will offer a free session on advanced care planning and health care directives, including living wills, on Thurs., April 16 from 3 to 6 p.m. The program will take place in the hospital’s Trellis Center, 10760 Hickory Ridge Rd., Columbia. For more information, call (443) 518-6484 or email kshelte7@jhmi.edu.

Read us online at TheBeaconNewspapers.com | Law & Money

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 acquain-

25

tance. 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. NASAA provides a link to the interactive map of state security regulators in the U.S. at nasaa.org/contact-your-regulator. It provides investor alerts at nasaa.org/category/investor-advisories.

Elliot Raphaelson welcomes your questions and comments at raphelliot@gmail.com. © 2020 Elliott Raphaelson. Distributed

by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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A P R I L 2 0 2 0 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

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.

Here’s what you can expect from the 2020 Census in the coming weeks, and how you can protect yourself from potential scams.

Census forms coming soon 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. The invitation will include detailed instructions of what you need to do.

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.

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.

BEACON BITS

Mar. 27

APPLY NOW FOR MLK COMMISSION

Persons interested in serving on the commission charged with creating the Howard County-sponsored celebrations of Martin Luther King Day may apply through Friday, March 27 at the Howard County Office of Human Rights. Appointments are for five-year terms. For more information and to apply, contact Evelyn Boulware at the County Office of Human Rights, (410) 313-6457, or go to the website mlk@howardcoUntymd.gov.

Apr. 18

VIOLIN-PIANO DUO IN CONCERT

Violinist Kristof Barat pairs with pianist Enrico Pace for a concert featuring composers Brahms, Beethoven and Janacek on Sat., April 18 at 7:30 p.m. in the Horowitz Performing Arts Center on Campus Dr., Columbia. For tickets ($41) and other information, call (410) 987-2324.

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 Department 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 Social 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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H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — A P R I L 2 0 2 0

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Travel

27

Leisure &

In Indonesia, meet villagers, snorkel with sharks, hike its peaks and spot rare birds. See story on p. 29.

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.

© TOMAS1111 | DREAMSTIME.COM

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 28

28

Leisure & Travel | Subscribe for half-price. See p. 34

Barcelona From page 27 tall, covering FĂştbol 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.

A P R I L 2 0 2 0 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

Affordable dining

If you go

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.

Barcelona weather is pleasant yearround, 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 established a travel ban on European flights. Check cdc.gov for the latest news.

BEACON BITS

Apr. 14

A T E

~ ~ A L

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HoCoPolitso’s poet in residence, Teri Cross Davis, and her husband, Hayes Davis, a high school English teacher, will read selections from their poetry in a free program sponsored by HoCoPolitso on Tues., April 14. The reading will take place at 7 p.m. in the Columbia Arts Center, 6100 Foreland Garth, Columbia. For details, call (410) 730-0075 or visit HoCoPolitso.org

Apr. 4

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POETRY EVENING

GREENFEST

Celebrate the 50th anniversary of Earth Day with GreenFest, an annual festival with live music, environmental activities such as paper shredding and compost bin giveaways, wildlife exhibits and food. The free event will be held on Sat., April 4 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Howard Community College, 10901 Little Patuxent Pkwy., Columbia. For more information, contact Alan Wilcom at (410) 313-6433 or awilcom@howardcountymd.gov.

Ongoing

ARTS COUNCIL GRANTS

Howard County Arts Council has announced a new plan to assist small arts organizations and businesses not served currently by an Arts Council grant. Amounts vary up to $1,000. Interested organizations should visit hocoarts.submittable.com or call (410) 313-2787.

Read us online at TheBeaconNewspapers.com | Leisure & Travel

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — A P R I L 2 0 2 0

29

Having peak experiences in Indonesia an hour or more. But the rewards for enduring the early hours and being patient (not one of my strong points) were great, especially for serious birders.

Who wouldn’t be thrilled watching a Bird of Paradise showing off its brilliant, colorful plumage? The serious birders were able to see several of them, plus many other species, adding to their already impressive life lists.

We also visited a number of indigenous villages along the way. Each visit involved a warm greeting, a welcome ritual, dancing and singing, speeches by village dignitaries, and an exchange of gifts.

We were also given an opportunity to make fools of ourselves by joining in the dancing while smiling children held our hands and led us through the movements.

Then we’d wander the village, buying tchotchkes and sampling coconut, fried fish and other, often unidentifiable, treats.

Perhaps these greetings were just an attempt to separate tourists from their dollars. But I looked closely at the faces of the villagers as they danced, sang and interacted with us and did not detect even a hint of insincerity.

Yes, of course they want tourist dollars.

But the opportunity to show us who they are was at least as important as the few bucks we spent on wall hangings, masks and penis gourds.

Views worth climbing for Aside from the whale sharks, what most appealed to me during the trip was the lush scenery. To get to the best view of my trip, I had to climb an almost-vertical trail over sharp volcanic rocks, pulling myself up via roots, strong branches and thin tree trunks — plus a rope for the last 10 yards or so. I was drenched in sweat by the time I reached the top, but the view was worthy of a poster or brochure.

The climb back down was hairy, requiring serious concentration to return safely to the trailhead. After that climb and descent, though, I felt proud that I still had some adventure left in my aging body.

Our two birdwatching outings involved getting up very early, stumbling through the forest in the dark and sitting quietly for

WWII battles and current unrest I expected lush scenery, snorkeling, birds and villages in Indonesia. What I didn’t expect was to be touched by the human tragedy, past and present, of this tropical paradise.

It started with a visit to the Japanese Caves on Biak Island. During World War II, the Japanese used the underground chambers to hide from U.S. soldiers, who were trying to take back the island in the final months of the Pacific war. The Japanese soldiers would pop out of the caves to attack the U.S. troops, then slip back into hiding.

The Japanese army had forced out the local people, executing those who resisted.

The locals tipped off the U.S. military, who

PHOTO COURTESY OF DON MANKIN

By Don Mankin The whale shark swam directly at me.

As I feared becoming whale shark canapé, it veered slightly and slid past me, just a couple of feet away. If I had been so inclined (or stupid), I could have touched the 25-foot-long shark as it glided by.

I’ve had some pretty amazing animal encounters in my life — lions in Namibia, mountain gorillas in Uganda, whales in Alaska and Antarctica, polar bears in Siberia — but this snorkeling sighting ranked near the top. Of course, knowing that whale sharks only eat plankton, not overweight Americans, helped.

My shark encounter came about halfway through a recent two-week trip on Heritage Expeditions’ “Indonesian Explorer” adventure cruise through some of the most beautiful tropical scenery in the world.

We saw plenty of wildlife in Raja Ampat, more than 1,500 steep, jungle-covered islands at the eastern edge of Indonesia. It’s one of the most biologically diverse regions on the planet.

It was an active trip. At least two or three times each day we either hiked, snorkeled, swam off pristine white sand beaches, visited local villages or cruised around in a Zodiac (an inflatable boat used for shore excursions and close-up views of the islands).

Author Don Mankin ascended a jungle-covered peak in Indonesia’s Raja Ampat island chain for a beautiful view of its crystalline bay. The 1,500 islands are home to exotic birds, colorful coral reefs and diverse marine life.

then bombed the caves, dumping gasoline on them to kill anyone who survived the bombing. It’s a grisly story: 3,000 Japanese soldiers were killed in the attacks.

Current events in Indonesia belie its beauty, too. The Papuans on the eastern-

most island of Indonesia, an island shared

by Papua New Guinea, have a separate culture, ethnic origin, religion and language.

They feel discriminated against by the See INDONESIA, page 30

30

Leisure & Travel | Subscribe for half-price. See p. 34

A P R I L 2 0 2 0 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

PHOTO BY TREKPEDITION.COM

In Indonesia’s Raja Ampat, some villagers live in houses that hover over the water.

Indonesia From page 29 Indonesians, and don’t have access to the same economic opportunities. Many would prefer to be politically independent, separate from Indonesia. Their discontent has turned violent in often deadly public demonstrations.

We saw the consequences of this conflict on one of our shore excursions to visit a freshwater, inland lake. Civil unrest had broken out a couple of weeks earlier, and we observed broken windows and burneddown buildings on the way to the lake.

We also heard stories of demonstrators shot by Indonesian police and military. A large hospital ship was docked in the harbor to treat the wounded. In an indication of just how serious the situation was, we were not allowed to take photos of the ship.

I got a first-hand account of the problems that day. After the welcoming cere-

mony, I strolled through the village, where I met Jacob (not his real name). He talked openly but quietly about the conflict, his aspirations, and his role in the efforts to help achieve self-determination for his people.

Despite the local tensions, though, we never felt threatened or in any danger.

Everyone was friendly and relaxed in our presence. The manifestations of the conflict seemed distant to us.

If you go Heritage Expeditions offers tours of Raja Ampat starting at $6,995. Visit heritage-expeditions.com, or call 1-866-2857884.

One-way airfares from BWI to Sorong, Indonesia, where the trip begins, start at around $700. Airfare home from Madang, Papua New Guinea, where the trip ends, is about $1,400.

For more information and photos, see Don’s website, adventuretransformations.com.

BEACON BITS

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

Apr. 4

DAFFODIL DAY

History and daffodils will be in bloom at the 13th annual Whipps Garden Cemetery Daffodil Day Celebration.

Highlights include the Daffodil Demonstration Garden, entertainment by the Camerata Musica Madrigal Singers, and horticulture talks in the Woodland Theatre.

Guided tours will highlight cemetery history, the restoration of original iron work and recent Eagle Scout Projects. The event is scheduled for 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sat., April 4, at 3651 St. John’s Lane in Ellicott City.

Whipps is maintained by Howard County’s Master Gardeners and is open to the public daily. For more information, call (410) 313-1913 or email hcmgwebmaster@gmail.com.

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

Apr. 1

Apr. 19

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

www.enterprisecommunity.org PET-FRIENDLY

ISRAEL CAFÉ

Learn about Israeli current events, including elections and culture, from Israeli emissary Shay Rubinstein. Bring a lunch. The free session takes place on Wed., April 1 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Jewish Federation of Howard County, 10630 Little Patuxent Pkwy., Suite 121, Columbia. To register, call (410) 730-4976, ext. 122 or visit jewishhowardcounty.org.

PULL AND PLANT

Preserve River Hill by removing invasive species and replacing them with native plants. The volunteer opportunity takes place on Sun., April 19 from 10 a.m. to noon at Claret Hall, 6020 Daybreak Cr., Columbia. To learn more, visit columbiaassociation.org.

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — A P R I L 2 0 2 0

Read us online at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

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31

Arts &

Avoid being shocked. See story on p. 33.

Slapstick Shakespeare parodies the Bard

Puns and other low humor There are puns (“A nose by any other name would still smell�), jabs at Shakespeare (“excelling despite male pattern baldness�), audience participation, slowmotion swordplay, rainbow-striped pantaloons, primary-color tights and high-top

Keds, spurts of silly string and a nod to the Bard’s “A-List� 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 Kashner’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 “pre-eminent Shakespearean scholar� (graduate of a certificate program, making him “neither eminent nor post-eminent�), who describes the Bard’s influence “spreading through the lymphatic system of civilization.�

Act One begins with a satiric salute to Romeo and Juliet. The biggest laugh comes as Wilson’s Romeo declares, “Call me but love, and I’ll be new baptized.�

Kashner’s Juliet interrupts, “Um, did you just call yourself Butt Love? Is that your name now?�

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 daughter’s assailants, bakes their remains into pies, and feeds them to their mother. Naturally, Titus becomes a cooking show, “The Gory Gourmet.�

Othello follows as a Gilbert & Sullivan parody: “I am the very model of a model Moorish general.� Macbeth offers Wilson a rather

PHOTO BY BRANDON W. VERNON

By Dan Collins “Dying is easy. Comedy is hard.�

Whether it was 20th-century actor Peter O’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.

It’s 16 comedies, 11 historical plays and 11 tragedies, not to mention the sonnets (“It’s the complete WORKS of Shakespeare, not just his plays!�), 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.

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 See SHAKESPEARE, page 32

March M arch 27 - June 7

June 12 - August 23

410-730-8311

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32

Arts & Style | Subscribe for half-price. See p. 34

Shakespeare From page 31 as the obscure works, or Shakespeare’s crappy plays,” as aforementioned scholar Burgess explains.

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

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 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

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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 scenes performed, all greatly abridged.

Kudos to director Ian Gallanar and the entire scenic, lighting, costume and production crew for presenting this Bardic farce, essen-

tially 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.

PHOTO BY BRANDON W. VERNON

On to Act Two

A P R I L 2 0 2 0 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

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GOLD MEMBERS Howard County Office on Aging & Independence, Residences at Vantage Point, The Beacon Newspapers SILVER MEMBERS Bob Lucido Team of Keller Williams Integrity, Brooke Grove Retirement Village, HomeCentris Healthcare, Right at Home In-Home Care & Assistance, Wayforth BRONZE MEMBERS Angels of Elder Care Planning, LLC, Arbor Terrace Fulton, ComForCare Home Care of Howard County, Debra Levy Eldercare Associates, Elegant Restoration, Inc., Heartlands Senior Living at Ellicott City, Homewatch Caregivers, Lutheran Village at MILLER’S GRANT, Reframe Financial Planning, Somerford Place of Columbia, Stress Free Solutions PATRON MEMBERS Alfred House Elder Care, Alzheimer’s Association – Greater MD Chapter, Assisting Hands Home Care, Dr. Paul Short, Licensed Psychologist, Golden Oak Elder Law, P.C., Home Instead Senior Care, HomeCall, Keller Williams Realty Centre, LyfLynks, Inc., Moyer and Sons Moving and Storage Inc., New Life Assisted Living, Parkinson’s Foundation- Mid Atlantic Chapter, Raymond James Financial Planning Services, Shangri-La Senior Living, Sunrise of Columbia, Visiting Angels, Winter Growth Inc.

Gregory Burgess performs a shorter, funnier version of Hamlet’s “Alas, Poor Yorick” soliloquy in the Chesapeake Shakespeare Company’s current production.

Read us online at TheBeaconNewspapers.com | Arts & Style

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — A P R I L 2 0 2 0

33

New alarms warn park-goers of lightning

By Amanda Cash If you’re in a park in Howard County this summer and thunder rumbles, you may hear a low, baritone siren and see a strobe light flashing.

Such lightning sirens with strobe lights will be placed in regional parks throughout Howard County by early summer, according to John Marshall, the county’s park bureau chief.

The eight regional parks with new lightning alarm systems are Blandair, Cedar Lane, Centennial, Rockburn Branch, Troy, Savage, Schooley Mill and Western Regional.

Howard County Parks and Recreation is

leasing the alarms from a company called Earth Networks. “Our location accuracy is about 200 meters or so, which is really pretty accurate,” Earth Networks Chief Marketing Officer Anuj Agrawal said.

If lightning is detected within 10 miles of a Howard County park that has the alarm system, the horn will sound for 15 seconds alerting individuals to seek shelter.

“The horn will be heard by some homes around the parks, but the key is that it will only go off when the park is open,” Marshall said. “So, when a storm comes in at 2 in the morning, you’re not going to hear the horn.”

A strobe light will continuously flash until the weather-monitoring service has determined the danger is no longer imminent and initiates an “all clear” sound three times.

In addition, staff members at the parks will be alerted if lightning occurs within a 15-mile radius via a smartphone app or their laptops.

Staff and volunteer training will begin in April for education on the lightning alarm systems for summer camps, organizations and clubs. Signs will also be posted near

devices for the general public.

The lightning alarm system is currently in use at the Bob Lucido fields of Covenant Park in Howard County, as well as at the Germantown sports facility fields in Montgomery County.

Howard County residents may recognize similarities in structure between the lightning alarm system and the flood detection alarm system being used in Ellicott City.

The park alarms will be tested once a month during non-severe weather days.

From the publisher

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.

From page 2

FROM PAGE 34 ANSWERS TO SCRABBLE

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

are printing a one-page survey form on page 5 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.

BEACON BITS

Apr. 12

Painters entering the Plein Air Ellicott City juried competition June 25 to 27 must file an application with the Howard County Arts Council by Sun., April 12. Open Paint (non-juried) registration begins in May. For more information, visit hocoarts.org or call the Arts Council at (410) 730-0065.

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34

Arts & Style | Subscribe for half-price. See p. 34

A P R I L 2 0 2 0 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

Crossword Puzzle

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

2

3

4

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5

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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

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Scrabble answers on p. 33.

10

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Grad. of MIT Sloan School of Mgmt.

2.

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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 33.

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — A P R I L 2 0 2 0

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.

For Sale 5 PLOTS AVAILABLE ALL TOGETHER or will separate at Meadowridge Memorial Park.

Westland area Block 38 lot 97 easy access from Meadowridge Road. Call Pat Cotino, 410-3752521 or coninc@verizon.net... will negotiate.

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.

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.

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Health 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.

PAID RESEARCH STUDY: Healthy 65-85yr olds with normal hearing needed for MRI study of speech comprehension at Univ. of Maryland College Park. Earn $10-15/hr in 2 sessions (34hrs total). Contact 240-630-0461, EffComLab@gmail.com, http://ter.ps/listen HOME HEALTH AID/PRIVATE CAREGIVER with over 15 years experience in elderly care. Certified CNA/MEDTECH/HHA. Worked in Nursing Homes, Assisted Living Facilitates, and Private Duties. I am U.S Citizen, own transportation for errands, available 24/7, negotiable fees. Please contact Comfort by email at: comfortaddo88@gmail.com or call 240-338-0550.

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

DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. NOT just a discount plan, REAL coverage for [350] procedures. Call 1-844366-1003 for details. www.dental50plus.com/320.

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Home/Handyman Services R&G CLEANING SERVICE. Small family owned business catering to all your household needs. Friendly, reliable, and trustworthy with reasonable rates and flexible hours. Call Dolores to set an appointment for an estimate.

301-442-5032. 240-280-1451 LAUREL SENIOR CLEANING SERVICES provides house cleaning for mature adults, adults with mobility issues, & adults with health problems. Call (240) 564-8682 or visit laurelseniorcleaning.com. Serving Prince George’s, Anne Arundel, and Howard Counties.

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 Legal Services

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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.

SELL ME YOUR CAR, Truck or SUV for CASH today instead of a maybe tax deduction tomorrow. I come to you. NO FUSS NO MUSS. 410-916-0776 I also buy Motorcycles, Scooters & Bikes. If it’s got wheels, I am a Buyer..

CASH FOR ESTATES, moving etc; I buy a wide range of items. Buy out/clean up. www.atticllc.com Gary Roman; 301-520-0755.

CASH FOR JEWELRY; I buy a wide range of jewelry; gold, silver, costume, watches, turquoise, coins, school rings, etc. Gary Roman; 301-520-0755.

ADVERTISERS IN THIS ISSUE Clinical Studies

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Centennial Medical Group . . . . . . . . . . . .15

Brooke Grove . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12, 36 Charlestown/Erickson Living . . . . . . . . . .11 Enterprise Residential . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30 Residences at Vantage Point . . . . . . . . . . .13 Shriner Court . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

Elections Horvat for Circuit Court Judge . . . . . . . . . .6

Events Beacon 50+Expo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32 Brooke Grove . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36 COGS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32

Funeral Services Going Home Cremations . . . . . . . . . . . . .32 Harry H. Witzke’s Family Funeral Home, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28 MacNabb Funeral Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 Sol Levinson & Bros., Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . .28

Home Health Care

35

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Howard County Community Resources . . .1 Howard County Board of Elections . . . . . .8 Howard County Recreation & Parks . .16-19 Howard County Recycling . . . . . . . . . . . .10

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Bob Lucido Team . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 Coldwell Banker/Debbie McGrann . . . . .20 Sachs Realty/Ruth Lyons . . . . . . . . . . . . .25

Retail/Services

A-1 Action Nursing Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 At Home Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Homewatch Caregivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Options for Senior America . . . . . . . . . . .29

Columbia’s Village Centers . . . . . . . . . . .24 Maryland Pipe Dreams . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 Oakridge Auction Gallery . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 Perfect Sleep Chair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Zinger Chair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

Home Improvement

Senior/Government Services

Budget Bath . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

Howard County 50+ Connection . . . . .20-22

Technology

Theatre/Entertainment Columbia Pro Cantare . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31 Toby’s Dinner Theatre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31

Tour & Travel Eyre Tour & Travel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29

Volunteers/Employment Meals on Wheels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28 The Beacon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24

36

A P R I L 2 0 2 0 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

Subscribe for half-price. See p. 34

April 2020

UPCOMING SEMINARS & EVENTS at Brooke Grove retirement village

As experts in senior care and memory support, Brooke Grove Retirement Village is pleased to offer seminars and events that promote physical, spiritual and mental well-being.

All seminars and events will be held at Brooke Grove Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, located at 18131 Slade School Road on the Brooke Grove Retirement Village campus, unless otherwise noted. Please register with Toni Davis at 301-388-7209 or tdavis@bgf.org. caregiver connection: “How to Protect Yourself Against Financial Fraud and Scams”

living well seminar: “Get ting Your House in Order: Advance Directives”

TUESDAY, APRIL 14 2-3 P.M.

Who will make health care decisions for you if you become incapacitated? Have you implemented a Health Care Power of Attorney or Living Will? What do they do and why are they important? Discover the purpose of and laws regarding Advance Directives and how to use them to prepare for the future.

Con artists are everywhere, so the more educated you are about financial fraud and scams, the better equipped you’ll be to avoid becoming a victim. Learn about the most common telephone, computer and in-person scams, how to keep from taking the bait and where to report fraud/scams.

April 22 through May 27

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 15 1-2:15 P.M.

WEDNESDAYS • 11-11:30 A.M.

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

FREE. Register by April 13.

Healthy Living class: “Everyday Balance”

MONDAYS & WEDNESDAYS 10-10:30 A.M. During this class, simple yet effective techniques are used to improve balance and agility and reduce your risk of falls.

No props are used, so exercises may easily be performed at home.

Six-week Session Fee: $30 Reservations are requested by April 17.

Independent living

assisted living

rehabilitation

Six-week Session Fee: $20 Reservations are requested

by April 19.

SECOND WEDNESDAY OF EACH MONTH • 50-MINUTE SESSIONS

April 20 through June 1

301-260-2320 · www.bgf.org

Recent scientific studies have shown that mindful meditation changes the brain in astonishing ways — promoting greater focus, reduced anxiety, increased compassion and improved well-being.

Alzheimer’s disease and dementia care consultations

FREE. Register by April 12.

18100 Slade School Road Sandy Spring, MD 20860

Healthy Living class: “Mindful Meditation”

This service is designed to help caregivers — as well as those who are newly diagnosed — cope with the impact of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, enabling participants to better understand the disease, manage care and make informed decisions regarding services and treatments.

FREE. Call to schedule an appointment at any time during the dementia journey.

long-term care

memory support