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Inspiring youth through his art By Margaret Foster When Maryland artist Normon Greene was a child in southwestern Virginia, he watched his mother sketch and vowed to be just like her one day. “I was inspired by her drawings, so I started drawing,” the 69-year-old painter and sculptor said. “Then she gave me clay, and I thought, ‘Wow, I can draw three-dimensionally!’” Now Greene, a retired youth counselor and artist whose works are displayed throughout the D.C. metro area, is the one inspiring a younger generation. His work is being exhibited in the Sandy Spring Museum from May 2 through July 28. At the same time, the museum will present artwork done by school students from kindergarten to eighth grade at St. John’s Episcopal School in Olney, Md. As the museum prepared for both exhibits, its executive director “suggested the idea of having students examine [Greene’s] art work and explore his art style,” said St. John’s visual arts teacher Maggie Lewis. Lewis loved the idea. She showed Greene’s work to her students, and they created family portraits in Greene’s style of bold colors and simple shapes. Then she sent her students’ work to Greene. “I was so impressed, I asked if I could go to the class and introduce myself,” Greene said. Lewis arranged a March visit to her second-grade classroom. The students peppered Greene with questions: How long did it take to complete his artwork? What materials did he use? “I was really taken by how every one of them got into it,” he said. “As we get older, we don’t see young people as often. It’s really important that we learn from each other.”

5 0 MAY 2019

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L E I S U R E & T R AV E L

Forts, fishing, food and fun — there’s much more to Alabama’s Coast than beaches; plus, Alaska by yacht, and how to avoid car rental gotchas page 38

ARTS & STYLE

Strangers get to know one another at Grand Hotel, now at the Signature Theatre; plus, a prom dress giveaway, and how fashion holds a fascination for all ages page 44

TECHNOLOGY 3 k Overcome computer frustrations

Wide open spaces for art

Normon Greene returned to his love of art after he retired from his career as a youth counselor. His paintings and sculptures — including the rooster shown here in Takoma Park, Md. — have been widely displayed in the years since. Now through July, some of Greene’s works will be exhibited at the Sandy Spring Museum, alongside that of local students who have been inspired by Greene’s signature style.

Greene has been creating art — first on the side, now full-time — for more than 40 years. You may have seen some of his work around town or even along major highways out West. Through a connection with an artist friend, Steven Weitzman, he has crafted reliefs for highways and bridges in Oklahoma and Arizona. Today, several of his public sculptures are on display in Maryland and D.C. His 2008 stone sculpture “Five in the Wind”

stands beside the Potomac River in National Harbor, and his bronze “Roscoe” statue, cast in 2000, depicts a beloved rooster in Takoma Park, Md. Other statues and reliefs are displayed in Wheaton and Scotland, Md. From his studio in Brentwood, Md., Greene even carved a stone sculpture in 2015 for the city of Charleston, S.C. All told, he has displayed his work in more than 90

venues, including galleries, libraries, community centers and public parks.

Tai chi is another passion Greene grew up in Lynchburg, Va., where he first glimpsed someone in a local park practicing tai chi, an ancient Chinese martial art. See ARTIST, page 46

FITNESS & HEALTH 8 k Brain zaps may improve memory k More turn to pot for aches and pains SPOTLIGHT ON AGING k Newsletter for D.C. seniors

LAW & MONEY 30 k Common money mistakes to avoid k Find part-time work with the Census ADVERTISER DIRECTORY

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M AY 2 0 1 9 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

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Heads in a fog Is it me or are more people driving where people are constantly streaming in around today with their heads in the and out, so I expected to have some close clouds than before? encounters. Drivers have always had disSurprisingly, I arrived at a tractions, whether from kids time when there was an empty roughhousing in the back seat, spot near the front of the store. cars rubbernecking at an acciIn the car next to that spot, a dent, or the urgent need to woman was rooting around in change the radio station or CD. her trunk, so I drove into my But today, we have more spot slowly and carefully. things than ever clamoring for Then, as if she hadn’t even our attention when we drive. noticed me there, she proSome of them are external and ceeded to open the rear pastechnological in nature, such as FROM THE senger door of her car, pinphone calls, texts and GPS di- PUBLISHER ning me inside mine. rections. When I saw that she had a By Stuart P. Rosenthal Other sources may be interchild in a car seat, I thought I nally generated. We’re so bombarded with would simply wait until she had gotten him messages all day, some of us may have out so they could go into the store. But after adopted a general air of inattention just to sitting quietly for a minute, I discovered she block out the noise. was still standing there, now feeding the On a quick outing the other day, I had child his lunch. three experiences in the same parking lot, I started my car again to open my window one after the other, that led me to write and politely asked if she could let me exit this column. my car. She did, and I went into the store. I had gone to a small strip mall with a I probably wouldn’t even recall that situcrowded parking lot to visit a popular store ation now were it not for my experience Correction: Our April cover story incorrectly stated that Ben Ali grew up in Puerto Rico. In fact, Ali grew up in San Juan, Trinidad and Tobago. We regret the error.

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only a few minutes later, as I tried to leave the same parking spot. When I returned to my car with shopping bags, I saw a car idling right behind me, the driver apparently waiting for a spot like mine to open up for him. So I put my bags in the backseat, got into the front seat and started the engine — only to discover the driver had not budged. I was trapped again. I waited a few moments, but when he continued not to move, I killed the ignition, opened my door and walked around to the driver’s side of his car to point out that I was trying to vacate a parking spot for him if he would allow me to leave. He then backed up just enough for me to get out and pulled into my spot. Next, I proceeded to the exit, which is also frequently crowded. There’s a very busy six-lane road outside the strip mall and a clearly marked two-lane driveway to allow entrance and egress for shoppers. As I neared the exit, the car just in front of me, also leaving the shopping center, inexplicably drove into the lane intended for those entering the center (rather than the exit lane) and proceeded to wait there for the light to change. I hesitantly started to pull into the (correct) exit lane but quickly realized that probably wasn’t a good idea under the circumstances, as the two of us would then be blocking all entrance to the center. Sure enough, a few seconds later, a car coming up the main road attempted to enter the shopping center, only to find the entrance lane blocked by the out-bound car. So, I pulled back completely from the exit lane, allowing the driver to maneuver around the stopped car and enter the shopping center that way. It seemed like an eternity before the traffic light changed and both the distracted car and I could leave the center.

Having these three experiences in a row got me thinking. Have many of us become so accustomed to focusing only on ourselves (or our ubiquitous technology) that we have stopped being aware of what’s happening around us? While I don’t know if technology actually had anything to do with these particular examples of distractedness, I wonder if our tech-obsessed modern way of life has accustomed us to walking (or driving) around in our own little worlds. With hearing blocked by ear pods or Bluetooth devices, eyes only for our smartphones and GPS, have we walled ourselves off to the sights and sounds of our surroundings and fellow human beings? As for those of us who find such behavior obnoxious, what lesson do we take away from these encounters? Do we walk around with chips on our shoulders, looking for reasons to get angry? Do we decide that, since so many others seem to be oblivious and get away with it, we should become more self-centered and insular ourselves? Or do we aim to make a point to acknowledge the presence of others while respecting their personal space, in hopes that we might break through the barriers between us and help reestablish norms of human interaction? I hope the folks with whom I interacted that day gained a little more self-awareness after our encounter. But even if not, I certainly have been doing a lot of thinking myself since then, and I hope I have come away a little more aware of how my own behavior (especially behind the wheel of a car) might affect others. And I hope those reading about this experience may do the same.

Letters to the editor Readers are encouraged to share their opinion on any matter addressed in the Beacon as well as on political and social issues of the day. Mail your Letter to the Editor to The Beacon, P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915, or e-mail to info@thebeaconnewspapers.com. Please include your name, address and telephone number for verification. Dear Editor: I read your April cover story about Ben’s Chili Bowl with interest. It reminded me of the drug store and luncheonette, Smith’s Pharmacy, which I owned and operated from 1959 to 1968, and which, unlike the nearby Ben’s Chili Bowl, did not survive the 1968 riot. Smith’s had an experienced pharmacist and luncheonette employees who could prepare chicken, fish and steak dinners, 15-cent hamburgers and other foods. All went well until April 4, 1968, when we heard that the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. had been shot and killed. When I heard on the news that looting had begun, I phoned my manager who told me, “Doc, they are tearing up the store.” The police told me, “Sorry, Sir, there is nothing we

can do; there is rioting and looting all up and down 14th Street.” The next day, I rushed into my store. Everything had been smashed, and most of the merchandise was gone – except, strangely enough, the Easter cards, which remained untouched. Although I subsequently acquired other small businesses, my greatest job-related happiness and fulfillment was as owner and operator of Smith’s Pharmacy. Larry Rosen Rockville, Md. Dear Editor: I am writing to let you know how much I like and appreciate your “From the Publisher” message in the April Beacon. Your See LETTERS TO EDITOR, page 53

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — M AY 2 0 1 9

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Technology &

Innovations Don’t suffer computer problems alone By Gabe Goldberg The only thing worse than having computer, Internet or other technology problems is suffering them alone. But take heart: local organizations called “user groups” let you meet friendly people to help you cope with — and even enjoy — technology. Though it’s easy to think that buying a computer is as simple as selecting a microwave oven, groups offer assistance for this tricky choice. People often enjoy tailoring a system to their unique needs. User groups also hold meetings on wide-ranging topics, from general technology (e.g., online safety, privacy, getting better search results) to specific technolo-

gies (password managers, favorite Windows or Apple utilities, care and feeding of personal network routers, etc.). Groups offer newsletters, freewheeling Q&A sessions, discounts on books, hardware and software, raffle prizes, email and web services, and “virtual technology conferences” that can be found online.

Give and receive help, support User group membership provides a setting to make friends, socialize, and give and receive help. They often adopt the motto “users helping users.” As a volunteer organization, a user group is like a credit union, in that the more effort people contribute, the more

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payback they and their community receive. In my user group, I give advice and support in some areas, and receive it in others. So my efforts are not an expense for me, but a rewarding investment in myself and my community. Yours can be, too. As nonprofits, user groups provide community services, too, such as judging science fairs and refurbishing used computers for deserving schools, organizations and individuals.

How to join User groups love new members. It’s easy to join one, get to know people, and quickly feel like a longtime member. I’d hate to think about facing my computer

without my fellow user group members beside me! Groups appreciate volunteers, and getting involved is personally rewarding. It’s a way to serve the community while getting the best introduction to a group’s technology resources. The DC-area’s leading consumer computer user groups include: — patacs.org: Meets monthly in Fairfax, twice monthly in Arlington. Mostly focuses on Windows, with strong general component of smartphones, tablets, Internet, apps, general technology, etc. And there’s a free-ranging discussion list for sharing See COMPUTER HELP, page 5

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M AY 2 0 1 9 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Reason to get tech savvy: the grandkids By Beth Brophy Retirees Kristi Appelhans, 68, and her husband, Tony, 69, live in Idaho Falls, Idaho — about 2,000 miles from their daughter Kira’s family in Staten Island, N.Y. Although they visit every few months, they have found that the best way to stay connected to their grandson, Oliver, 5, is through video chats using Skype and FaceTime. “Once Oliver got big enough to see us, around age one, we’d walk outside with our computer and show him our rooster or a bird’s nest,” said Kristi. At three, Oliver began guiding their long-distance interactions. “We’d watch him as he played with Legos in his living room and talk to him,” said Kristi. These days, Oliver shows them the lights on his bedroom ceiling or performs chemistry experiments, such as mixing vinegar and soda in the kitchen sink. “Technology has allowed us to keep the connection with him strong between vis-

its,” said Kristi. “We use it more than we expected.”

Better than a phone call Like the Appelhanses, many grandparents separated by geography from their beloved grandchildren find that communicating through new tech tools is a lot more fun than the obligatory phone calls relied on by past generations. “Audio alone doesn’t cut it anymore. This generation expects to see someone’s face when they talk,” said Alison Hillhouse, vice president of youth culture and trends at MTV, and author of the self-published how-to guide, Virtual Grandma. Her son, Charlie, 6, likes to video chat with his grandmother, who lives in Missouri. “My mom, a former schoolteacher and creative type, uses puppets and props,” said Hillhouse. “She will play with toy trucks and narrate a story to Charlie. And my dad dresses up in costumes.” Hillhouse recommends that grandpar-

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ents incorporate their grandchild’s “passionate points,” such as a love of trucks, into video chats. Walking around with your device, pointing out objects of interest, is better than standing still. “It may seem silly to you, but kids jump right into it,” she said.

Apps, social media make it easy Several companies are developing products to ease intergenerational communications. For example, business invention firm Inamoto & Co., in Brooklyn, N.Y., is working on a prototype for Mado, a video chat interface, as a way to “give kids and grandparents things to do during video chat, to have deeper conversations and more fun,” said Inamoto product designer Sheena Livingston. It works like this: During a video chat, grandparents and kids launch a virtual spinner from their computer screens that lands on an activity they can do together, such as charades or trivia. Inamoto’s limited testing found that kids who normally video chat for five minutes have stayed on for 20 minutes, Livingston said. As the grandkids acquire their own devices, grandparents can establish a direct line of communication by texting and following the kids on social media, if the kids give permission.

“You’ll hear from them more if you get comfortable texting on messaging apps like WhatsApp and iMessage,” said Livingston. Younger children often enjoy multi-player online gaming with grandparents, said Ben Halpert, president of Savvy Cyber Kids, a youth-focused digital education nonprofit. For older grandkids, Halpert advises sharing photos. Choose an interesting image and tell a story through it, he said. A side benefit of using social media: It “gets you involved in your grandchild’s online world,” he said.

Don’t overdo it But maintaining digital boundaries is key. Halpert’s tips: Don’t post unflattering photos of your grandkids. Don’t hijack every post and turn it into a conversation. Don’t use social media to guilt the grandkids. While some grandparents may be reluctant to try new tech tools, staying connected to the grandkids can be a powerful motivator. “Ask your grandchildren for help setting up your accounts and for tips,” said Halpert. Given the doting nature of the grandparent-grandchild bond, they will probably display more patience toward you than they do to their parents. © Tribune Content Agency, LLC

A new approach to caring for our community Providence is transforming healthcare in D.C. Providence Health System is dedicated to finding innovative ways to care for you. One of those innovations is bringing the kind of care you want closer to your neighborhood. We no longer offer hospital and emergency care services but will soon be opening an urgent care center accessible seven days a week. We know you have lots of other needs, so we’ll still be right here with services, including: • Primary care • Geriatrics • Outpatient behavioral health • Skilled nursing care through Carroll Manor

Visit ProvidenceHealthyVillage.org for more information.

• Care coordination for Medicaid beneficiaries • A pharmacy and access to free medications to those in need • Care for police officers and firefighters

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Virginia

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❏ Ashby Ponds (See ads on pages 14) ❏ Chesterbrook Residences (See ad on page 13) ❏ Culpepper Garden (See ad on page 27) ❏ Falcons Landing (See ad on page 11) ❏ Greenspring (See ad on page 14) ❏ Gum Springs Glen (See ad on page 25) ❏ Herndon Harbor House (See ad on page 25) ❏ Lockwood House (See ad on page 25) ❏ Morris Glen (See ad on page 25) ❏ Overture Fair Ridge (See ad on page 16) ❏ Sommerset Retirement (See ad on page 19) ❏ Vinson Hall (See ad on page 18) ❏ Wingler House (See ad on page 25)

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Health Stuies

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❏ Calorie Restriction Study (See ad on page 23) ❏ Hearing Research Study (See ad on page 23) ❏ Speech Comprehension Study (See ad on page 23) ❏ Vegan Diet Arthritis Pain Study (See article on page 22)

Please mail this form to: The Beacon, P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915-2227 or fax to (301) 949-8966

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❏ Alfredhouse (See ad on page 35) ❏ Brooke Grove (See ads on pages 8, 56) ❏ Churchill Senior Living (See ad on page 26) ❏ Covenant Village (See ad on page 25) ❏ Emerson House (See ad on page 25) ❏ Five Star Premier Residences (See ad on page 17) ❏ Gardens of Traville (See ad on page 31) ❏ Hebrew Home (See ad on page 21) ❏ Hillside Apartment Homes (See ad on page 40) ❏ Homecrest House (See ad on page 7) ❏ Homewood (See ad on page 36) ❏ Kensington Park (See ad on page 24) ❏ Landing of Silver Spring, The (See ad on page 15) ❏ Park View Bladensburg (See ad on page 43) ❏ Park View Columbia (See ad on page 43) ❏ Park View Emerson (See ad on page 43) ❏ Park View Laurel (See ad on page 43) ❏ Riderwood (See ad on page 14) ❏ Springvale Terrace (See ad on page 22) ❏ Victory Housing (See ad on page 27)

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Remnants of Civil War forts and batteries are scattered throughout the D.C. area. Join a National Park Service ranger for a twomile hike from Fort Ethan Allen (Arlington) to Fort Marcy (McLean) on Wednesday, May 15, and Saturday, May 18. Both hikes will depart at 9:30 a.m. from Madison Community Center, 3829 N. Stafford St., Arlington, Va. Experienced hikers can pre-register by calling (703) 228-4878.

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Maryland

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May 15+

❏ Armed Forces Retirement Home (see ad on page 27) ❏ Chevy Chase House (See ad on page 13) ❏ Friendship Terrace (see ad on page 12) ❏ Modern at Art Place, The (see ad on page 3)

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It’s “The Greatest Show-and-Tell on Earth.” Check out the smart ideas at the annual Maker Faire NoVa on Sunday, June 2, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at George Mason University, 4400 University Dr., Fairfax, Va. Browse the inventions and crafts of local engineers, artists and innovators. Free parking, $6 senior admission. For more information, call (703) 467-8465 or visit nova.makerfaire.com.

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June 2

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Not sure how to scan? An expert team of library archivists will show you how to preserve your personal photos and documents on Thursday, May 30, from 3 to 5 p.m. Bring 10 images or papers you want to archive to Iona Senior Services, 4125 Albemarle St. NW. For more information or to register for the free workshop, call (202) 459-9485.

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Housing Communities

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May 30

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resources/tips and active Q&A. — wap.org: Meets monthly, alternating between Fairfax and Montgomery Counties, plus informal “users helping users” gatherings. Mostly focuses on all-things Apple, with strong component of consumer issues, general tech how-to and

★ FREE INFORMATION ★ FREE INFORMATION ★ FREE INFORMATION ★ F R E E

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trends, networking, etc. Call (301) 9840300 (leave message) or email office@wap.org with tech questions. If you attend a meeting or join, mention that you read about this in the Beacon. To find a user group in other areas, visit the Association of Personal Computer User Groups at apcug.org. Gabe Goldberg is a freelance writer and computer enthusiast.

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Say you saw it in the Beacon | Technology & Innovations

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — M AY 2 0 1 9

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M AY 2 0 1 9 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

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

Vision Zero: Our Plan to Eliminate Fatalities and Severe Injuries Among Car Occupants, Bicyclists and Pedestrians What is “Vision Zero”?

You Can Help Achieve “Vision Zero”

Montgomery County is actively implementing its “Vision Zero” Action Plan to reduce severe and fatal collisions on County roads for vehicle occupants, bicyclists and pedestrians. Our broad goal is to eliminate such fatalities and severe injuries by 2030.

1. Stay alert and avoid distractions: Nearly half of all drivers and 4 in 10 pedestrians involved in severe or fatal crashes were distracted. Keep your head up and your eyes open. Attention saves lives! 2. Be courteous and safe when driving: • Drive within the speed limit • Drive sober and avoid driving after taking medicine that impairs function • Look out for pedestrians at every crosswalk • Allow bicyclists a three-foot clearance • Move over and slow down when you pass a crash to avoid hitting police or fire/rescue personnel 3. Be courteous and safe when walking: • Use crosswalks to cross the street, abiding by traffic signals • Keep your eyes open and stay alert for vehicles and bicycles 4. Understand the impact of aging on driving: • Explore older driver resources at: montgomerycountymd.gov/senior/older-driverresources.html

The Vision Zero concept for roadway safety originated in Sweden in 1997 and has thus far been adopted by more than three dozen jurisdictions in the United States. Traffic engineers, police and community members all play a role in keeping roadways, bikeways and sidewalks safe for everybody. Montgomery County’s Vision Zero Action Plan has 41 action items such as improving bus stops, redesigning trail crossings, adding new sidewalks, increasing police enforcement and providing bicycle education courses. The plan can be found at: www. montgomerycountymd.gov/visionzero. Vision Zero builds off the success of Montgomery County’s Pedestrian Safety Initiative: Between 2010 and 2016, there were 250 fewer severe and 33 fewer fatal collisions compared with the previous fiveyear average.

• Aging & Disability Resource Line 240-777-3000

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

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

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WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — M AY 2 0 1 9

Tech startups want to check your memory By Margaret Foster Have you ever taken a “brain selfie”? This spring, a San Francisco startup is looking for about 900 people to take a test that will provide a snapshot of their current cognitive status. The one-hour game, taken via iPad, isn’t exactly a test, said study director Shenly Glenn, CEO of Miro Health. “It’s more of a series of interactive movies.” With this iPad-based test, Miro Health hopes to determine the reliability of its neurocognitive assessment tool, the Mobile Assessment of Neurological Function. Miro Health is conducting the study to ensure that the snapshots it takes are reliable — and also to apply for FDA approval to market its tool to doctors, researchers and consumers, Glenn said. Miro Health’s tool is currently used by researchers at Johns Hopkins, the University of California at San Francisco and the University of Pittsburgh. Although neurologists already have assessment tools, the “tests are very blunt,” Glenn said. “They really only confirm severe impairment.” If they detect a problem, it’s often too late to help. The beauty of the tool, she said, is that it’s accessible to anyone (with access to an iPad, that is). “Most people only test healthy subjects who can come into the doctor’s office.

We can test people everywhere,” Glenn said.

What’s in it for you? Why should people sign up for the study? Because it can provide detailed information about your current mental status. For instance, if you’ve recently started eating more leafy greens, taking a fish-oil supplement, or exercising more in the hopes of improving your memory, this study may be able to tell you if those efforts are paying off. “Everyone really should start doing a yearly mental physical so they can compare results,” Glenn said. Miro Health is currently enrolling older adults from 64 to 85, as well as younger adults ages 18 to 25. The startup expects to have results in two to three months. A small stipend may be available. Sign up at mirohealth.com/community.

No iPad? Try this website A second company, Arizona-based MindCrowd, needs one million people to help test their tool. MindCrowd, formed in 2013, hopes to determine the risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease. MindCrowd wants adults of any age to take their free online word pair test, which is based on a test first developed in 1894! The 10-minute test flashes pairs of words

BEACON BITS

June 3

POETRY READING

Whitman, Frost — and you? On Monday, June 3, from 7 to 9 p.m., listen to Lisa Lewis and Margaret Mackinnon read their poems and then step up to an open mic to read your own work. The evening starts with a classical guitarist and includes refreshments. Admission is free. Metro’s Bethesda stop is a 10-minute walk from the Writer’s Center, 4508 Walsh St., Bethesda, Md. For more information, call (301) 654-8664.

Caring for your aging parent or loved one? It’s nnot all up to you. Call us. 240 0-777-3000 ADS@ @ MontgomeryCountyMD.gov

Aging & Disability Services Mon and Fri: Tue, Wed, & Thur:

8:30am – 5:00pm 8:30am – 7:30pm

A free service of your County Government

for a few minutes and then asks people to fill in the missing word. So far only about 130,000 people have taken the test. “What we’re try to do here is to approach the study of Alzheimer’s from an entirely different angle,” said study leader Dr. Matt Huentelman, associate professor of neurogenomics at the Translational Genomics Research Institute. “We want to study people who have healthy brains, who don’t have Alzheimer’s disease, and understand what might be associated with brain performance — demographics, genetics, lifestyle. Hopefully these factors we identify could be used to avoid or delay Alzheimer’s,” he said. Established by the institute, Mind-

Crowd works with the University of Arizona and the Alzheimer’s Prevention Initiative. MindCrowd started from a donation from a family foundation, and it’s funded by private individuals and foundations. You can remain anonymous when you take the test and still help out. If you choose, you can do a DNA test in a phase II version of the study. “It’s fun and it’s a short bit of time; however, it’s an extremely valuable piece of info for science,” Huentelman said. So far, his research has shown that men’s reaction time in this test is faster than that of women, but that women give more accurate answers than men.

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May 30+

ANNAPOLIS GREEK FESTIVAL Can you say spanakopita three times fast? Sample spinach pie and other Greek delicacies at the Annapolis Greek Festival, May

30 through June 2, from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Enjoy live music, dancing and shopping. Free admission and free parking are available at the festival, located at the Saints Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church, 2747 Riva Road, Annapolis, Md. Call (240) 205-1190 or visit annapolisgreekfestival.org.

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Health Fitness &

BRAIN ZAPS Mild electrical shocks improve shortterm working memory in older adults TENNIS ELBOW, ANYONE? Painful elbows — caused by tennis, golf or many other activities — can be eased GOING TO POT More older adults are turning to marijuana to soothe aches and pains NATURAL HEARTBURN REMEDIES You may not need a variety of OTC pills to soothe acid stomach if you try these

Facing cancer treatment? This can help By Lindsey Tanner Before she could start breast cancer treatment, Nancy Simpson had to walk in a straight line, count backward from 20 and repeat a silly phrase. It was all part of a special kind of medical fitness test for older patients that’s starting to catch on among cancer doctors. Instead of assuming that patients are too frail for treatment or, alternatively, recommending harsh drugs tested only in younger patients, they are taking a broader look. Specialists call these tests “geriatric assessments,” and they require doctors to take the time to evaluate physical and mental fitness, along with emotional and social well-being. They also take into account the

patient’s desires for life-prolonging treatment regardless of how much time might be left. An avid walker with a strong network of nearby family and friends, Simpson, now 80, said she “wanted to do the maximum I could handle” to fight her disease. She scored high enough in her 2017 evaluation to proceed with recommended surgery and chemotherapy. “It gave me encouragement. Then I felt like I am OK and I can get through this — and will get through this,” said Simpson.

For patients 65 and up These tests are sometimes done with other illnesses but only recently have been recommended for cancer. In new guidelines, the American Society of Clinical Oncology recommends the evaluations for patients 65 and up, particularly before making decisions about chemotherapy. The idea is to find ways to help patients tolerate treatment, not rule it out. For example, if walking tests show balance problems that chemotherapy might worsen,

Nearly two-thirds of all cancer patients are 65 or over

patients might be offered physical therapy first. Relatives or friends might be called on to help cook for patients who live alone and would become too weak to prepare meals during chemo. And for those who want to avoid the hospital no matter what, treatment that could put them there would be avoided. Almost 1 million U.S. adults 65 and older will be diagnosed with cancer this year, the American Cancer Society estimates. Nearly two-thirds of all cancer patients are in that age group. And yet, most cancer treatments stem from studies on younger, often healthier patients. That leaves doctors with limited See CANCER TREATMENT, page 9

PARKINSON’S POINTERS “The Value of Multidisciplinary Care in Parkinson’s Disease” A free, livestream event followed by a question-and-answer session

Presented by Zoltan Mari, MD, director of the Parkinson’s and Movement Disorders Program and The Ruvo Family Chair, Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health

Thursday, June 6 • 6:30-8 p.m. check-in & Hors d’oeuvres • 6 p.m. Brooke Grove Rehabilitation and Nursing Center 18131 Slade School Road • Sandy Spring, MD 20860

The complexity and diverse nature of Parkinson’s means that no one pill or physician can effectively deal with the myriad of problems it presents. An alliance of specialists and subspecialists are needed to collaborate and effectively tackle each and every symptom and challenge experienced by patients. During this seminar, Dr. Mari will discuss the benefits, current models and future of multidisciplinary care. For information or to register, contact Toni Davis, 301-388-7209 or tdavis@bgf.org, by June 4.

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Cancer treatment From page 8 information on how treatments will affect older patients. Geriatric assessments can help bridge that gap, said Dr. Supriya Mohile, a specialist in geriatric cancer at the University of Rochester Medical Center.

Evaluations assess risks These tests may require 15 to 30 minutes or more, and recent research has shown they can accurately predict how patients will fare during and after cancer treatment, Mohile said. Older patients who get chemo and have other health problems are more vulnerable to falls and delirium, and are at risk of losing independence. “We hear all the time about ‘decision regret,’” she said, meaning patients who got harsh treatment but weren’t aware of risks and other options, and who later say, “I wish someone had told me this could happen.” Mohile co-authored a recent study that found just one in four U.S. cancer specialists did the assessments. She said doctors say it takes too long and that patients don’t want it. But she hears from patients and caregivers:

“I’m so happy you’re asking me about these things. Nobody ever asked me.” One of Mohile’s colleagues administered Simpson’s evaluation, which showed she was strong enough to endure a standard, aggressive three-drug chemotherapy combo for breast cancer. She chose a variation that was gentler, but extended the treatment by several weeks. The evaluation showed “I wasn’t in as that bad of shape as my age would indicate,” Simpson said. Her walking buddy and four attentive children gave her strong social support, and she lived independently, doing her own cooking and cleaning. Treatment left Simpson with hair loss, fatigue and excruciating mouth sores. She knew about the risks but has no regrets. Cancer “gave me a different perspective on what is important in life and what isn’t, and I’m still adjusting to that,” Simpson said.

Insurance often doesn’t cover Dr. Hyman Muss, a geriatrics specialist at the University of North Carolina’s Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, said there’s no question the assessments are important, but insurance cover-

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age is sometimes a problem. Medicare will pay for yearly physical exams but not geriatric assessments, he said. Doctors can sometimes squeeze the tests into other office visits, but there is no billing code for the exams, he said. Advocates note that the assessments can include questionnaires that patients can fill out at home to shorten time in the doctor’s office. Beverly Canin, 84, of Rhinebeck, N.Y., became an advocate after declining chemotherapy following surgery for early breast cancer 20 years ago. She didn’t have an assessment, and says her doctor dismissed her concerns about harsh side effects and refused to consider other options. A 2015 medical report Canin co-authored told of a patient who had the opposite experience. The 92-year-old man with

rectal cancer entered hospice care after he declined surgery, the only treatment his primary care doctor recommended. The doctor determined the man would not tolerate rigorous chemotherapy and radiation because of his advanced age. A specialist approved the treatments after the man had a geriatric assessment and declared he wanted care that would control his symptoms and prolong his life. The patient managed well and was cancer-free two years later. Canin said his stress and treatment delay could have been avoided if an assessment had been done first. “The risks with older adults traditionally are overtreatment and undertreatment. What we need is more precision treatment,” she said. —AP

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Brain zaps boost memory in people 60+ By Malcolm Ritter Zapping the brains of people over 60 with a mild electrical current improved a form of memory enough that they performed like people in their 20s, a new study found. Someday, people might visit clinics to boost that ability, which declines both in normal aging and in dementias like Alzheimer’s disease, said researcher Robert Reinhart of Boston University. The treatment is aimed at “working memory” — the ability to hold information in mind for a matter of seconds as you perform a task, such as doing math in your head. Sometimes called the workbench or scratchpad of the mind, it’s crucial for

things like taking medications, paying bills, buying groceries or planning, Reinhart said. “It’s where your consciousness lives… where you’re working on information,” he said.

Effects are short term The new study is not the first to show that stimulating the brain can boost working memory. But Reinhart, who reported the work last month in the journal Nature Neuroscience, said it’s notable for showing success in older people and because the memory boost persisted for nearly an hour minimum after the brain stimulation ended. One scientist who has previously report-

ed boosting working memory with electrical stimulation noted that the decline in this ability with normal aging is not huge. But “they removed the effects of age from these people,” said Dr. Barry Gordon, a professor of neurology and cognitive science at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine in Baltimore. “It’s a superb first step” toward demonstrating a way to improve mental performance, said Gordon, who was not involved in the new study. Reinhart agreed that more research is needed before it can be formally tested as a treatment.

No pain involved The electrical current was administered through a tight-fitting cap that also monitored each subject’s brainwaves. For study participants, that current felt like a slight tingling, itching or poking sensation under the electrodes for about 30 seconds, Reinhart said. After that, the skin got used to the current and it was imperceptible. The researchers’ idea was to improve communication between the brain’s prefrontal cortex in the front and the temporal cortex on the left side, because the rhythms of activity in those two regions had fallen out of sync with each other. So the researchers applied the current

to those two regions to nudge the activity cycles back into a matching pattern. The results provided new evidence that a breakdown in that communication causes the loss of working memory with age, Reinhart said. Part of the study included 42 participants in their 20s, plus 42 others 60 to 76. First, they were tested on a measure of working memory. It involved viewing an image such as a harmonica or broken egg on a computer screen, then a blank screen for three seconds, and then a second image that was either identical to the first or slightly modified. The subjects had to judge whether it was the same image or not. During a sham stimulation, the older group was less accurate than the younger participants. But during and after 25 minutes of real brain stimulation, they did as well. The improvement lasted for at least another 50 minutes after the stimulation ended, at which point the researchers stopped testing. It’s not clear how long the benefit reached beyond that, Reinhart said, but previous research suggests it might go for five hours or more after stimulation stops. Researchers got the same result with a second group of 28 subjects over age 62. —AP

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Health Shorts Dog walkers have more falls, broken bones Broken bones from falls while dog walking are on the rise among older U.S. adults, and hip fractures are among the most common injuries. That’s according to a study published in JAMA Surgery. University of Pennsylvania researchers examined government data on emergency room visits for dog-walking injuries in adults 65 and older. The numbers nationwide jumped from nearly 1,700 in 2004 to

about 4,400 in 2017. Almost 80 percent of the patients were women, who tend to have less dense bones than men. While dog walking causes fewer than 1 percent of fractures among older adults, the numbers are higher than expected and the risk is often underappreciated, said study co-author Dr. Jaimo Ahn, an orthopedic surgeon. Injuries typically happen when a dog pulls on a leash and walkers lose their balance. Breaking bones, especially hips, can sharply diminish older adults’ health. Previous research suggests that at least 1 in 4 dies within one year of breaking a hip. But research shows that dogs can be good companions for older adults and can help them stay active. So before embark-

M AY 2 0 1 9 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

ing on those outings, older people should consider strength training for themselves — and obedience training for their dogs, Ahn said.

High heat warnings may go out too late A new study finds even moderate heat sends some mid-Atlantic residents to the hospital, suggesting that government weather service warnings of dangerously high temperatures are coming too late in some parts of the U.S. The research shows an uptick in hospital admissions for heat problems long before alerts go out in northern, generally cooler states. And that’s happening at lower temperatures than in the toastier South, where people are more accustomed to the heat. “Alerts are not occurring early enough,” said Dr. Renee Salas, an emergency room doctor and researcher at the Harvard

Global Health Institute. Salas, who wasn’t part of the study, called it important in a warming world where heat illnesses are going to only get worse. Researchers at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and other federal agencies studied hospital admissions for heat-related illnesses in 22 states over a decade. They found 36,000 such hospitalizations per summer, on average. In the Midwest and North Central states, when the heat index — which combines temperature and humidity for a feels-like number — hits 85 degrees, there’s a noticeable jump in the number of people who go to the hospital with heat-related illnesses, such as dehydration, breathing and heart problems, even diabetes, the study said. But NOAA’s National Weather Service’s first level of heat alerts don’t go out in those regions until the “feels-like” temperature approaches 100 degrees. Colder regions just aren’t used to the See HEALTH SHORTS, page 13

BEACON BITS

May 23

COOKING WITH VEGGIES

Eat your peas and carrots. Watch and learn as sisters Adrienne and Danielle Cook, a writer-nutritionist team, demonstrate the best ways to serve late spring vegetables. Two similar lectures at noon and 12:50 p.m. will be held in the Conservatory Garden Court of the U.S. Botanic Garden, 100 Maryland Ave. SW, DC. Free; no registration is required. For more information, call (202) 225-8333 or visit usbg.gov.

May 23

AGING EXPO

At the Bender JCC’s 10th Annual Senior Health & Wellness Expo, enter a raffle, pick up information about local providers, learn lifestyle tips, watch interactive demonstrations, take a health screening and more. Admission is free. Swing by Leisure World, 3701 Rossmoor Blvd., Silver Spring, Md., on Thursday, May 23, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information, email fenoch@benderjccgw.org or call (301) 348-3809.

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Health shorts From page 12 heat, and people there get sicker at lower temperatures than in areas where high temperatures in the summer are a daily fact of life and air conditioning is more prevalent, said study lead author Ambarish Vaidyanathan, a CDC health scientist. During dangerously high temperatures, health officials advise limiting or avoiding strenuous outdoor activities, staying cool inside, drinking plenty of water and wearing light, loose-fitting clothing.

Climate change prolongs allergy season Scientists say that climate change is prolonging allergy season and the suffering that goes along with it. The News Journal in Wilmington, Del., reported last month that local doctors are seeing more people who are suffering from allergies, and that they are suffering for longer periods of time. Scientists say that deforestation and the

burning of fossil fuels are sending more greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Those gases in turn warm the planet and extend allergy season. Some studies have found additional carbon dioxide may even cause some plants

to produce more pollen. Local historical data shows that Delaware appears to be getting warmer. Delaware State Climatologist Daniel Leathers said that has meant a longer span between frosts when plants can bloom and grow. —AP

BEACON BITS

June 4

MEDICAL MARIJUANA INFO

What’s the buzz about medical marijuana? On Tuesday, June 4, from 6:30 to 8 p.m., tune in for a free discussion about the science of cannabinoids, innovative edible options and Maryland’s medical cannabis program from Devona Austin of Herbology. Hope Connections for Cancer Support will offer the free talk at Beaumont House at FASEB, 9650 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, Md. For more information and to register, call (301) 634-7500 or email info@hopeconnectionsforcancer.org.

May 18

PLANT SALE

Stop by Green Spring Gardens in Alexandria to pick up quality plants from 40 vendors. Master Gardeners of Northern Virginia will be on hand to give advice and answer questions. Admission is free, and meals can be purchased at food trucks or a bake sale. Garden Day is set for Saturday, May 18, from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. at Green Spring Gardens, 4603 Green Spring Rd., Alexandria, Va. For more information, call (703) 642-5173, email info@friendsofgreenspring.org or visit friendsofgreenspring.org.

May 25

HOME GARDEN TIPS

Which plants grow well in the D.C. area? Choose native plants that will thrive in our humid climate. In this free class by Extension Master Gardeners, learn more about planting, maintenance and how to attract birds, butterflies and pollinators to your garden. The class will take place on Saturday, May 25, from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Beatley Library Reading Garden, 5005 Duke St., Alexandria, Va. For more information, call (703) 2286414 or email mgarlalex@gmail.com.

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Easing pain from golfer’s or tennis elbow By Christopher Camp, M.D. Dear Mayo Clinic: A few months ago, I noticed minor pain in my elbow when I’d lift anything — even something light. Recently, the pain is worsening and moving down my inner forearm. My elbow hurts even when I’m not lifting. Turning my wrist or twisting my arm causes pain. What could be the reason for this? Are there things I can do at home to make it better, or do I need to see my

healthcare provider? A: The problem you describe sounds like “golfer’s elbow.” The medical term for this disorder is medial epicondylitis, which develops when muscles and tendons on the inside, or medial side, of your arm become damaged, usually due to overuse. Self-care measures often are enough to ease the pain. If you don’t see improvement after a few weeks, however, make an appointment with your healthcare provider for an evaluation.

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The muscle and tendon damage of golfer’s elbow triggers pain and tenderness on the inner part of your elbow. As in your case, the pain may extend down the inside of the forearm. It also can lead to stiffness in the elbow and weakness in the hand and wrist. A related condition that tends to be more common is tennis elbow (also called lateral epicondylitis). It affects the outside (lateral side) of the forearm and leads to symptoms similar to those of golfer’s elbow. Despite its name, golfer’s elbow doesn’t affect only athletes. The condition develops due to excessive or repeated stress on the muscles and tendons of the inner arm. That can happen over time as a result of any activity that involves repeatedly bending and straightening your elbow.

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Although it can be painful, golfer’s elbow doesn’t require urgent care. It’s safe to try some remedies at home before you see your healthcare provider. Rest your arm, and avoid activities that require you to turn or twist it. Use an ice pack on your elbow, 15 to 20 minutes at a time, three or four times a day. Take a nonprescription anti-inflammatory medication, such as ibuprofen or naproxen sodium, to ease discomfort.

In many cases, following these self-care steps consistently for several weeks is enough to relieve symptoms of golfer’s elbow and allow you to gradually return to your activities. If there’s no improvement after several weeks, then it’s time to see your healthcare provider. A review of your health history and activities, along with a physical exam, usually are all that’s needed to diagnose golfer’s elbow. In some cases, X-rays may be useful to rule out other conditions, such as a broken bone or arthritis. Once the diagnosis has been confirmed, physical therapy is the next step in treatment. Strengthening and stretching exercises called “eccentric exercises” are particularly effective in treating golfer’s elbow. A physical therapist can teach you these and other strengthening and flexibility techniques. In most cases, golfer’s elbow resolves completely with self-care and physical therapy, and no further treatment is needed. Recovery can take time and patience, however. Total symptom relief often requires three to six months of consistent physical therapy. Although that may become frustrating, the effort is worth it. For most people who take the time to work through physical therapy to treat golfer’s elbow, See ELBOW PAIN, page 16

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New Alzheimer’s-like condition identified By Lauran Neergaard Some people told they have Alzheimer’s may instead have a newly identified mimic of the disease — and scientists say even though neither is yet curable, it’s critical to get better at telling different kinds of dementia apart. Too often, the word dementia is used interchangeably with Alzheimer’s when there are multiple types of brain degeneration that can harm people’s memory and thinking skills. “Not everything that looks like Alzheimer’s disease is Alzheimer’s disease,” said Dr. Julie Schneider, a neuropathologist at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago. And among all the known dementias, this newly identified kind “is the most striking mimic of Alzheimer’s,” she added. It’s not clear how many people have this particular type, which an international team of scientists defined on April 30 in the journal Brain. But there could be a sizeable number, said Dr. Peter Nelson of the University of Kentucky, the paper’s lead author. The dementia was dubbed “LATE,” an acronym chosen in part because the oldest seniors seem at greatest risk. Here’s a look at various dementias in the confusing Alzheimer’s-or-not mix:

Standard Alzheimer’s plaque Alzheimer’s is the most common form

of dementia, and autopsies have long found its telltale signs in the brain: sticky plaque from an abnormal buildup of amyloid protein, and tangles of another protein named tau. Only recently have scientists developed special, pricey scans that can measure that buildup in living brains. Studies with those scans found about a third of people with Alzheimer’s symptoms lack amyloid buildup — ruling out Alzheimer’s, said Schneider, senior author of the paper. What else could cause their dementia?

Another toxic protein found It turns out another protein, named TDP-43, also can run amok in the brain. Scientists knew it plays a role in a completely different disorder, Lou Gehrig’s disease. Then, they linked TDP-43 buildup to severe shrinking of the hippocampus, a brain region key for learning and memory. Nelson said about a quarter of people over age 85 have enough abnormal TDP43 to affect their memory or thinking abilities. For now, it takes an autopsy to spot — the symptoms seem like Alzheimer’s until a specialist can peer inside the brain. “What is now clear is that a lot of dementia is caused by gloppy proteins. We used to think it was just two gloppy proteins, amyloid and tau,” Nelson said.

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The next step: Finding better ways to measure abnormal TDP-43 and diagnose LATE. (It stands for an unwieldy scientific name — Limbic-predominant Age-related TDP-43 Encephalopathy.) “Our ultimate goal is to test people hopefully in a very noninvasive way,” said National Institute on Aging dementia specialist Nina Silverberg. That’s key to eventually developing treatments.

Other dementia culprits — Strokes, sometimes small “silent” ones, can trigger what’s called vascular dementia, something scientists at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) think might be prevented with better blood pressure control.

— Lewy body dementia, named for clumps of still another abnormal protein, can cause Alzheimer’s-like symptoms along with movement and other problems. — Frontotemporal dementia often triggers changes in personality and tends to strike at a younger age than Alzheimer’s, yet can still be misdiagnosed. Many older patients probably have “mixed dementia,” several brain changes that combine to cause trouble, Dr. Walter Koroshetz, head of NIH’s National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, told a recent meeting about non-Alzheimer’s dementias. The paper about TDP-43-caused disease See NOT ALZHEIMER’S, page 17

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M AY 2 0 1 9 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

More seniors try pot for age-related aches By John Rogers The group arrives right on time at the gates of Laguna Woods Village, an upscale retirement community in the picturesque hills that frame this Southern California suburb a few miles from Disneyland. There they board a bus for a quick trip to a building that, save for the green Red Cross-style sign in the window, resembles a trendy coffee bar. The people, mostly in their 70s and 80s, pass the next several hours enjoying a light lunch, playing a few

games of bingo, and selecting their next month’s supply of cannabis-infused products. “It’s like the ultimate senior experience,” laughs 76-year-old Ron Atkin, a retired beauty products distributor, as he sits down to watch the bingo at the back of the Bud and Bloom marijuana dispensary in Santa Ana. More than 30 states now have legal medical marijuana, and 10 of them, including California, allow anyone 21 or older to

use pot recreationally. The federal government still outlaws the drug even as acceptance increases. The 2018 General Social Survey, an annual sampling of Americans’ views, found a record 61 percent back legalization, and those 65 and older are increasingly supportive. Indeed, many industry officials say the fastest-growing segment of their customer base is people like Atkin — older adults who are seeking to treat the aches, sleeplessness and other maladies of age with the same herb that many of them once passed around at parties. “I would say the average age of our customers is around 60, maybe even a little older,” said Kelty Richardson, a registered nurse with the Halos Health clinic in Boulder, Colo., which provides medical examinations and sells physician-recommended cannabis through its online store. Its medical director, Dr. Joseph Cohen, conducts “Cannabis 101” seminars at the nearby Balfour Senior Living community for residents who want to know which strains are best for easing arthritic pain or improving sleep.

Can it replace opioids?

Elbow pain

lightweight equipment when working, exercising or playing sports. Don’t overuse your elbow. If you notice discomfort when doing an activity, take a break. — Christopher Camp, M.D., Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Mayo Clinic Q & A is an educational resource and doesn’t replace regular medical care. E-mail a question to MayoClinicQ&A @mayo.edu. For more information, visit mayoclinic.org. © 2019 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. All rights reserved. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

From page 14 symptoms don’t return. Rarely, symptoms may persist despite consistent self-care and physical therapy. In those cases, an injection of platelet-rich plasma may be beneficial. In severe cases where all other treatment options have failed, surgery may be necessary. Once your symptoms are gone, take care to help prevent golfer’s elbow in the future. Strengthen your forearm muscles, and stretch before physical activity. Use

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There’s evidence pot can relieve chronic pain in adults, according to a 2017 report from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine. But the study also concluded that the lack of scientific information about benefits for specific conditions poses a risk to public health. At Bud and Bloom, winners of the bingo games take home new vape pens, but Atkin isn’t really there for that. He’s been coming regularly for two years to buy cannabis-infused chocolate bars and sublingual drops to treat his painful spinal stenosis since the prescription opiates he had been taking quit working. It was “desperation” that brought him here, he said, adding that his doctors didn’t suggest he try medical marijuana. But they didn’t discourage him, either. Adele Frascella, 70, purchases a package of gummy candies she says helps keep her arthritic pain at bay. “I don’t like to take an opioid,” she said. Fashionably dressed with sparkling sil-

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WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — M AY 2 0 1 9

Seniors & pot From page 16 ver earrings, Frascella confirms with a smile that she was a pot smoker in her younger days. “I used to do it when I was like 18, 19, 20,” she said. “And then I had a baby, got married and stopped.” She took it up again a few years ago, even investing in a “volcano” — a pricey, high-tech version of the old-fashioned bong that the website Gizmodo calls “the ultimate stoner gadget.” But these days, like many other seniors, she prefers edibles to smoking. [The Maryland legislature recently approved legislation legalizing edibles for those eligible for medical cannabis.] Renee Lee, another baby boomer who smoked as a youth, got back into it more than a dozen years ago after the clinical psychologist underwent brain surgery and other medical procedures that she said had her taking “10 meds a day, four times a day.” “And I wasn’t getting any better,” she said, adding that she asked her doctors if she might try medical marijuana as a last resort. They said go ahead and she found

Not Alzheimer’s From page 15 adds to the complexity, said Alzheimer’s Association chief science officer Maria Carrillo, who wasn’t involved with the new research. “We must learn more about each contributing cause of dementia so we can understand how these changes begin and interact and co-occur, and how to best diagnose, treat and prevent them,” she said.

Correct diagnosis important Current treatments for Alzheimer’s and other dementias temporarily ease symptoms. But there are other reasons for a precise diagnosis.

it ended her pain. In 2012, she founded the Rossmoor Medical Marijuana Club in her upscale San Francisco Bay Area retirement community. “We started with 20 people, and we kept it really quiet for about a year and a half,” she said, noting that although California legalized medical cannabis in 1996, it was still seen in some quarters as an outlaw drug. Her group has since grown to more than 1,000 members and puts on regular events, including lectures by pro-cannabis doctors and nurses.

Some cautions

effects, particularly in older people,” he said. “They can get dizzy. It can even impair memory if the dose is too high or new ingredients are wrong. And dizziness can lead to falls, which can be quite serious.” Richardson said Colorado saw an uptick in hospital visits by older users soon after the state legalized cannabis in 2012. The problem, he said, was often caused by novices downing too many edibles. That’s a lesson Dick Watts, 75, learned the hard way. The retired New Jersey roofing contractor, who keeps a winter home at Laguna Woods Village, began having trouble sleeping through the night as he got

into his 70s. He attended a seniors’ seminar where he learned marijuana might help, so he got a cannabis-infused candy bar. He immediately ate the whole thing. “Man, that was nearly lethal,” recalled Watts, laughing. Now when he has trouble sleeping, he takes just a small sliver of candy before bed. He said he wakes up clear-headed and refreshed. “And I have it up on a shelf so my grandkids can’t get to it,” Watts said. —AP Associated Press Writer Krysta Fauria contributed to this story.

People Lee’s age — 65 and over — are the fastest-growing segment of the marijuana-using population, said Dr. Gary Small, professor of psychiatry and aging at the University of California, Los Angeles. He believes more studies on the drug’s effects on older people are needed. And while it may improve quality of life by relieving pain, anxiety and other problems, he said, careless, unsupervised use can cause trouble. “We know that cannabis can cause side A list of medications common for seniors can harm people with Lewy body dementia, for example. Knowing the specifics also can help people plan care, as some types of dementia worsen faster than others. And it’s critical for developing better dementia treatments. Testing a treatment that targets, say, the tau tangles or amyloid plaques of Alzheimer’s won’t stand a chance if patients who only have TDP-43 are allowed into the study. “If you have a dementia percolating in your brain, the only hope we have right now is to participate in a clinical trial to try to stop it,” Nelson said. —AP

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M AY 2 0 1 9 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Insulin too pricey? Ways to cut costs By Linda A. Johnson The skyrocketing price of insulin has some diabetics scrambling to cover the cost of the life-saving medication. Others are skipping doses or using smaller amounts than needed and sometimes landing in the emergency room, patients and advocates told Congress recently. About 7.4 million Americans use insulin to keep their blood sugar at safe levels. Insulin needs vary by patient, as do costs depending on insurance coverage. Amid the public uproar about costs, drugmakers and some prescription plans are starting to offer patients bigger discounts. Express Scripts and its parent company, insurer Cigna, just began offering a month’s

worth of insulin to eligible patients for $25 per month. Express Scripts is now lining up other insurers whose prescription plans it manages. For most insulin and other diabetes medicines, manufacturers offer coupons reducing monthly out-of-pocket costs. The American Diabetes Association connects patients to assistance programs through insulinhelp.org, though not everyone qualifies. “We do not want anyone to skip or ration doses,’” said Dr. William Cefalu, the advocacy group’s chief scientific officer. If you are struggling to afford insulin, tell your doctors, Cefalu said. They might be able to recommend a free clinic or pa-

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tient assistance plan, or suggest cheaper options. If cost is an issue, here are other ways to save money:

Try older kinds of insulin Talk to your doctor about switching to older, cheaper kinds of insulin, suggested Dr. Robert Gabbay, chief medical officer at Joslin Diabetes Center in Boston. However, dangerous blood sugar plunges are more common with those, as they don’t control blood sugar as tightly as newer, more expensive insulins. Patients using older products, such as Novolin and Humulin R, must test their blood sugar more often, and more careful-

ly time when they inject insulin before meals, Gabbay stressed.

Switch to vials Patients who’ve been using insulin pens — injection devices containing multiple insulin doses — could switch to insulin vials. They are cheaper but less convenient. Drawing insulin out of the vial into a syringe makes doses less precise, and the abdominal injections hurt a bit more. Another option is Basaglar, a cheaper near-copy of the popular long-acting Lantus insulin pens.

See CHEAPER INSULIN, page 19

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Say you saw it in the Beacon | Fitness & Health

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — M AY 2 0 1 9

Cheaper insulin From page 18

Check your insurance Review your insurance company’s list of covered medications for insulin with the lowest copayments; coverage and copayments often change in January and there may be cheaper choices. Other savings options include getting a 90-day supply instead of 30-day refills.

Shop around Compare prices at different pharmacies. Prices can vary widely for insulin, other diabetes drugs and the testing strips and lancets needed to check blood sugar levels. Patients can look up drug prices at multiple drugstores and get coupons for big discounts at the pharmacy counter at GoodRx.com Or try healthwarehouse.com, which sells medicines at cash prices that can be cheaper even if you have insurance. Medicare and Medicaid patients can’t combine coupons with their insurance, but

a coupon alone might still be the cheapest option. The three main insulin makers offer the following savings: — Sanofi’s Insulins ValYOU Savings Program offers uninsured and cash-paying patients one insulin vial for $99 or one insulin pen for $149 each month. Starting in June, it will offer up to 10 vials and/or pens of most of its insulins for $99. Its Sanofi Patient Connection offers low-income, uninsured patients free insulin. — Eli Lilly will soon sell Insulin Lispro, a half-price version of its top-selling insulin Humalog KwikPens, for $265 per month. Its Lilly Diabetes Solution Center helps patients find affordable options. — Novo Nordisk has long sold an older insulin, ReliOn, through Walmart for about $25 a vial. It’s now available through CVS Health and Express Scripts. Novo Nordisk offers copay savings cards for Tresiba and other insulins, plus patient assistance with generous income limits at NovoCare.com. —AP

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M AY 2 0 1 9 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Relief for leg cramps; digestive issues By Howard LeWine, M.D. Q: I frequently have leg cramps that wake me up from sleep. How can I quickly stop the cramps, and are there ways to prevent them? A: Few things are more jarring to a night’s sleep than a sudden cramp in your calf. By the way, you have lots of company. Although nocturnal leg cramps can strike people at any time of life, they become more common with age. Among people over 50, about half report having leg cramps, a third say they are awakened by cramps at night, and 15 percent report weekly episodes. Leg cramps are muscle spasms caused by “mini-seizures” of motor neurons (nerves

that power muscle contractions). They are common among people with foot problems like flat feet or high arches, metabolic disorders, or neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease or neuropathy (nerve damage). However, most cramps strike people who are otherwise healthy. Dehydration and electrolyte imbalances such as low blood potassium or magnesium levels (a common side effect of diuretics) can increase the risk of cramping. To stop a foot or cramp once it happens, lean over and grab your toes, then slowly bend your foot back toward your head. Hold for about 20 seconds, then release it. Repeat as needed.

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If that doesn’t help, you can try rubbing the cramp with ice wrapped in a towel. Some people find more relief with a heating pad placed on the cramp. Despite the lack of a scientifically proven and safe therapy to prevent recurrent nighttime leg cramps, a few approaches may be worth trying. Start with stretching exercises. Stand about two feet from a wall. Lean forward, keeping your legs straight and feet flat on the floor. You should feel the stretch, but it should not be painful. Hold the position for 20 seconds and release. Repeat the stretch four to five times. Ideally try to do this four times per day for the first couple weeks at least. The most important time to stretch is before bed. Other preventive measures you can try include avoiding dehydration, wearing wellfitting supportive footwear, and keeping the bedding at your feet loose during the night. Although the evidence isn’t strong, some people find that taking a daily vitamin B complex helps, or consider over-thecounter diphenhydramine (Benadryl) before bedtime. Right now, there are no FDA-approved medications for leg cramps. The one drug with solid evidence for reducing the frequency of muscle cramps is quinine. However, the FDA has issued repeated warnings against

using quinine to prevent or treat leg cramps because it may cause serious side effects. Although doctors can still prescribe quinine, it is recommended only when cramps are disabling and the person understands the significant risks. Q: Food often sits heavy in my stomach. Should I be taking a daily digestive enzyme supplement? A: Digestive enzyme supplements promise to fix everything from bloating and flatulence to heartburn and gut health. Some of them are clearly beneficial in certain situations. But enzyme supplements are too often used in situations where there is little evidence that they do any good. Naturally occurring digestive enzymes help break down food so we can soak up nutrients. Your mouth, stomach and small intestine make some digestive enzymes. However, the majority come from your pancreas, which floods the small intestine (when food arrives there) with enzymes such as: — lipase, which breaks down fats — amylase, which breaks down carbohydrates, and — proteases and peptidases, which break down proteins. Once nutrients are broken into small See DIGESTIVE ENZYMES, page 22

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

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Health Studies Page

M AY 2 0 1 9 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

THE PLACE TO LOOK FOR INFORMATION ON AREA CLINICAL TRIALS

Can a vegan diet relieve arthritis pain? By Margaret Foster If your joints ache due to rheumatoid arthritis (RA), chances are you’ve tried every medication and trick in the book. But have you considered changing what you eat? RA is a progressive disease that currently has no cure. Along with diabetes, heart disease and other major diseases, it has been linked to chronic inflammation. RA is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system attacks its joints and, sometimes, organs.

A novel research approach With a new study, a D.C. nonprofit will examine the connection between diet and RA pain. The randomized trial will assess how nutritional changes in people diagnosed with RA affect their pain — and even their mood. The trial is “a novel idea” for the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, a D.C.-based nonprofit research and advocacy organization that has published several studies on plant-based diets, said Dr. Hana Kahleova, its director of clinical research.

“It’s based on the experience of our past research study participants. Some were not only struggling with their weight, but they also had arthritis and noticed they had less joint pain during their [vegandiet] trial,” Kahleova said. During the 36-week study, participants will be randomly assigned either to a group that will take pill-based supplements of vitamin E or omega-3 oil, or to a group that will begin eating a plant-based vegan diet. After four months, participants will switch groups. The vegan group will avoid dairy, meat and eggs for 16 weeks. After first meeting with a registered dietician, they will attend

one-hour nutrition classes on Wednesday evenings at the nonprofit’s office, 5100 Wisconsin Ave. NW (on Metro’s Red Line). Onsite parking will be validated for those who wish to drive.

Digestive enzymes

tic fibrosis, doctors prescribe enzyme pills to substitute for the lack of natural enzyme production. People with known deficiencies clearly get a benefit from these. Likewise, we know that taking a nonprescription lactase supplement (such as Lactaid or Lactrase) can help people manage lactose intolerance, and taking an alpha-galactosidase supplement (such as Beano or Bean Relief) may reduce gas and bloating if you have a hard time digesting the sugars in beans. But for other common gut problems, like heartburn or irritable bowel syndrome, there is little evidence that digestive enzymes are helpful. 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, please visit health.harvard.edu. © 2019 President and Fellows of Harvard College. All rights reserved. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

From page 20

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enough molecules, they are absorbed through the wall of the small intestine into the blood and then delivered throughout the body. Sometimes the body doesn’t make enough digestive enzymes. This can slow the digestion process and lead to uncomfortable symptoms. For example, if you don’t make enough of the enzyme lactase, you’ll have a hard time digesting lactose — the sugar in milk and milk-based products. If you don’t have lactase, the undigested lactose goes to the colon, which leads to more fluid entering the colon and more gas produced by bacteria in the colon. That creates bloating, flatulence and diarrhea. For people who can’t make enough digestive enzymes because of a health condition such as chronic pancreatitis or cys-

Classes offer support The classes, which will begin in July, will offer tips, recipes, food demonstrations and a grocery store tour. They’ll also function as a support group so that people new to a vegan diet can compare notes and share favorite foods. See HEALTH STUDY, page 24

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WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — M AY 2 0 1 9

Immune therapy fighting more cancers By Marilynn Marchione A treatment that helps the immune system fight deadly blood cancers is showing early signs of promise against some solid tumors, giving hope that this approach might be extended to more common cancers in the future. The treatment, called CAR-T therapy, involves genetically modifying some of a patient’s own cells to help them recognize and attack cancer. Richard Carlstrand of Long Key, Fla., had the therapy more than a year ago for mesothelioma, an aggressive cancer of the lining of the lungs. “We were going into unknown territories” to try this, he said, but now he shows no sign of cancer. “I couldn’t be happier.” Results on his and other cases were discussed in March at an American Association for Cancer Research conference in Atlanta. The first CAR-T therapies were approved in 2017 for some leukemias and lymphomas. After being altered in the lab, the modified immune system cells are returned to the patient through an IV, which puts them right where the cancer is — in the blood. But that approach doesn’t work well if the cells have to travel far through the bloodstream to get to tumors in the lung, breast, colon or other places. “Solid tumors are notorious for not letting

the immune cells enter,” and not enough may make it in to have an effect, said Dr. Prasad Adusumilli of Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York. A bigger worry is that the proteins on solid tumor cells that these therapies target also are found on normal cells at lower levels, so the therapy might harm them, too.

Cells injected near tumors Adusumilli helped design a new CAR-T to try to avoid these problems. He tested it on 19 patients with mesothelioma and two others with lung and breast cancer, respectively, that had spread to the chest lining. About 150,000 patients in the U.S. each year face this situation. The modified cells were injected directly into the chest where the tumors were. A genetic safety switch was added so a medicine could be given to destroy the cells if they caused harm. After the therapy, one patient was able to have surgery and radiation, and is doing well 20 months later with no further treatment. Fifteen others were well enough to start on a drug that boosts the immune system in a different way. Eleven of the 15 have been studied long enough to report results. Two had signs of cancer disappear for about a year, although one later relapsed. Six saw their tumors

shrink. Three saw their cancer worsen. There were no severe side effects, although some patients had temporarily low blood counts and fatigue. Grants from the federal government and foundations paid for the work, and a larger study is planned. Sloan Kettering has licensed the treatment to Atara Biotherapeutics and may get payments from it, as may Adusumilli.

Similar results with sarcomas A second study tested a different CAR-T therapy in 10 children and adults with advanced sarcomas — cancers that originate in various soft tissues or bones. Unlike other CAR-Ts that are usually given just

once, this one was given multiple times, up to 15 in one patient’s case, if there were signs it was helping. “From a single blood draw we make a large amount of the CAR-T cells and then we freeze them” and give them through an IV as needed, said Dr. Shoba Navai of Baylor College of Medicine in Houston. Two of the 10 patients had all signs of cancer disappear, one for 17 months and the other for nearly three years, so far. Three others had their disease stabilized. Five worsened despite treatment. Side effects were similar to the other study. The therapy seems safe “and we have early signs that this treatment approach may help,” Navai said. —AP

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M AY 2 0 1 9 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Why scientists are trying to map all cells By Malcolm Ritter Did you hear what happened when Bill Gates walked into a bar? Everybody there immediately became millionaires — on average. That joke about a very rich man is an old one among statisticians. So why did Peter Smibert use it to explain a revolution in biology? Because it shows averages can be misleading. And Smibert, of the New York Genome Center, said that includes when scientists are trying to understand the basic unit of life, the cell. Until recently, trying to study key traits of cells from people and other animals often meant analyzing bulk samples of tissue, producing a mushed-up average of results from many cell types. It was like trying to learn about a banana by studying a strawberry-blueberry-orange-banana smoothie.

In recent years, however, scientists have developed techniques that let them directly study the DNA codes — the activity of genes and other traits of individual cells. The approach has become widely adopted, revealing details about the body that couldn’t be shown before. And it has opened the door to pursuing an audacious goal: listing every cell type in the human body. “Single-cell analysis is crucial for a comprehensive understanding of our biology and health,” Dr. Francis Collins, the director of the National Institutes of Health, declared recently. In fact, the journal Science named the techniques that allow single-cell tracking of gene activity over time in developing organisms and organs as its “breakthrough of the year” for 2018. Its announcement declared, “The single-cell revolution is just starting.”

A slew of discoveries Even complicated animals like us are really just massive communities of cells, each of which has a particular role and works with its neighbors. An average adult human has 37 trillion of them, and they’re surprisingly varied: the inner lining of the colon, for example, has more than 50 kinds of cells. It was just five years ago that methods for decoding of DNA and its chemical cousin RNA from individual cells became broadly accessible, according to the journal Nature Methods. New techniques are still being developed to pry more secrets out of individual cells. The single-cell approach is leading to a slew of discoveries. In just the past year, for example: — Scientists closely tracked gene activity within fish and frog embryos, a step toward

the longstanding goal of understanding how a single fertilized egg can produce an animal. One study compiled results from more than 92,000 zebrafish embryonic cells. — Other researchers revealed details of the physical connection between pregnant women and the fetus, giving potential clues for causes of stillbirth. — A study found a pattern of gene activity in some melanoma cells that let them resist immunotherapy, the practice of unleashing the body’s immune system on cancer. That might lead to finding a way to render those cells vulnerable. At the MD Anderson Cancer Center of the University of Texas, Nicholas Navin uses single-cell DNA studies to reveal differSee MAPPING CELLS, page 25

Health study From page 22

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“This gives them some social support. Especially in the first couple of weeks [of a new diet], it’s so crucial to give them specific advice,” Kahleova said. Study organizers will administer surveys before and after the treatments, including a modified health assessment questionnaire, a visual analog scale for pain, and a disease activity score scale. “Rheumatoid Arthritis is a painful condition that can be hard to treat through medicines alone,” said Neal Barnard, the nonprofit’s founder, in an email. “Previous studies have suggested that low-fat, vegetarian diets and certain nutritional supplements can help reduce pain and the need for pain medications for some people. This study will add to the evidence.” To volunteer for the study or learn more, call (855) 788-3918 or visit pcrm.org/study.

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WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — M AY 2 0 1 9

Mapping cells From page 24 ent patterns of mutations in various cells of a single tumor. That lets him reconstruct when and where those mutations appeared as the tumor evolved from benign cells. And he can identify cells that contain combinations of mutations that make them the most lethal. Someday, such research should indicate what treatments to use for particular patients, or which patients have the highest risk of the disease progressing, Navin said. It might also allow doctors to check how well their cancer treatments are working. A decade or two from now, it might let doctors detect cancers very early by picking up and analyzing the DNA of rare cells in blood tests, he said.

Mapping all the cells Meanwhile, the ability to produce single-cell results for hundreds of thousands of cells at a time has opened the door to a huge effort to catalog every cell type in the human body. More than 1,000 scientists from 57 coun-

tries have joined the Human Cell Atlas Consortium, which estimates it will eventually profile at least 10 billion cells found in healthy and sick people. Why do this? It’s a natural follow to the big project that catalogued all the human genes, said co-organizer Aviv Regev, a biology professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and researcher at the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard. The gene map led to identifying thousands of genetic variants that raise or lower the risk of many diseases. But to turn that into therapies, scientists have to know in which cells those variants act, Regev said. And to run down those cells in the human body, “we have to map all of them.” Some cells are rarer than others, but they can be just as critical as their more plentiful neighbors, she said. She hopes for a first draft of the cell atlas in about five years, focused on certain organs and tissues of the body. Regev won’t hazard a guess about how many cell types will be found in the human body. “This is not going to cure all disease immediately,” she said, but “it is a critical stepping stone.” —AP

Share your opinion via a letter to the editor. See page 2.

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M AY 2 0 1 9 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Biscuits with the flavor of sweet potatoes By America’s Test Kitchen It was only a matter of time before sweet potato-loving Southern cooks combined the fluffy texture and pleasant tang of biscuits with the earthy sweetness of this popular tuber. To add the flavor of sweet potatoes to biscuits without weighing down the dough, we microwaved them to eliminate their moisture while concentrating their flavor. After mashing the flesh, we stirred in cider vinegar to mimic buttermilk’s tang

and to create greater lift once combined with the dough’s baking powder and baking soda. We maximized the biscuits’ tender texture with low-protein cake flour and opted for the deep, molasses-like sweetness of brown sugar to complement the sweet potatoes. The dough took on a pretty orange color and, once baked, the biscuits emerged tender and subtly sweet, perfectly ready for a smear of butter or jam, or to be sliced and

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stuffed with ham and mustard. If you can find them, Beauregard sweet potatoes are the best variety for these biscuits. The biscuits can be stored in airtight container for up to two days.

Sweet Potato Biscuits Makes 16 Start to finish: 1 hour 30 minutes Ingredients: 2 1/2 pounds sweet potatoes, unpeeled, lightly pricked all over with fork 2 tablespoons cider vinegar 3 1/4 cups cake flour 1/4 cup packed dark brown sugar 5 teaspoons baking powder 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1 1/2 teaspoons salt 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into ½-inch pieces and chilled, plus 2 tablespoons melted 4 tablespoons vegetable shortening, cut into ½-inch pieces and chilled Directions: Microwave potatoes on plate until very soft and surfaces are wet, 15 to 20 minutes, flipping every 5 minutes. Immediately cut potatoes in half. When potatoes are cool enough to handle, scoop flesh into large bowl and, using potato masher, mash until smooth. (You should have 2 cups. Reserve any extra for another use.) Stir in vinegar and refriger-

ate until cool, about 15 minutes. Adjust oven rack to middle position and heat oven to 425˚F. Line rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Process flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt in food processor until combined. Scatter chilled butter and shortening over top and pulse until mixture resembles coarse meal, about 15 pulses. Transfer flour mixture to bowl with cooled potatoes and fold with rubber spatula until incorporated. Turn out dough onto floured counter and knead until smooth, 8 to 10 times. Pat dough into 9-inch circle, about 1 inch thick. Using floured 2 ¼-inch round cutter, stamp out biscuits and arrange on prepared sheet. Gently pat dough scraps into a 1inch-thick circle and stamp out remaining biscuits. (You should have 16 biscuits total.) Brush tops of biscuits with melted butter and bake until golden brown, 18 to 22 minutes. Let biscuits cool on sheet for 15 minutes before serving. Nutrition information per biscuit: 265 calories; 93 calories from fat; 10 g. fat (5 g. saturated; 0 g. trans fats); 19 mg. cholesterol; 450 mg. sodium; 39 g. carbohydrate; 3 .g fiber; 6 g. sugar; 3 g. protein. For more recipes, cooking tips and ingredient and product reviews, visit americastestkitchen.com. —AP

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WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — M AY 2 0 1 9

Natural remedies for reflux, esophagitis

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disease, gastritis and ulcers. 5. Zinc Carnosine This is a dietary supplement that chemically ties together a zinc molecule to a carnosine molecule. The tissue-healing effects come from both compounds, which allow for tissue repair and a reduction in intestinal inflammation. Symptoms of esophagitis vary and include some of the following: Swallowing food and then experiencing mild pain in the chest or throat, the sensation that

something is stuck in the throat or sternum, early satiety, belching, mouth sores, heartburn, reflux and mild nausea. If you’re not significantly better within a week of your home treatment (natural or over-the-counter), see a specialist to make sure there is no serious underlying cause. This information is opinion only. It is not intended to treat, cure or diagnose your condition. Consult with your doctor before using any new drug or supplement. Visit suzycohen.com for more.

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For me, the yerba mate was the problem. I finally got reflux and heartburn after all these years. I have newfound respect for For others, it may be smoking, spicy foods, alcohol or hot drinks. Whatever those of you who deal with it! it is, discontinue your trigger. I traced my problem to drink2. Discontinue spices ing shots of yerba mate. I drank and hot foods. them several times a week for I’ve temporarily given up energy. I noticed heartburn spicy mayo, cayenne and black about 20 minutes after drinking pepper, and even vinegar to one tiny glass bottle of it. give my esophagus a rest. After it happened three times Also, I noticed it would hurt last week, I made the connecwhen I drank hot coffee or tea. tion. I did a little research and learned that drinking too much According to an article published in International Journal of mate, especially hot mate, ap- DEAR Cancer, drinking hot tea draparently is tied to esophageal PHARMACIST By Suzy Cohen cancer. I’ve stopped drinking matically increases your chance for developing esophageal canyerba mate shots as a result of cer. So drink your beverages lukewarm. my pain as well as these concerns. 3. Drink marshmallow root water. I didn’t take acid blockers like famotidine Fill a big glass jar with cold water and put (H2 antagonists) or omeprazole (Prilosec, a about 1 tablespoon of dried marshmallow popular PPI med) to deal with my reflux. Acid blockers don’t soothe, coat or direct- root per cup of water. In a few hours, you ly patch up your mucosal lining. They sup- will have a water that is somewhat thicker, press acid, which gives your esophagus a preserving the mucilaginous properties of break. It’s an indirect treatment, but it’s okay the marshmallow, which coats and soothes delicate membranes as you drink it. if that’s what your doctor recommended. 4. Mastic Gum In my case, instead I started taking natuMastic Gum is a resin that is extracted ral remedies. I’m happy to report my strategy worked! Just one week later, I’m 75 from a tree. This is sold as a dietary suppercent better. plement and is used as a natural remedy Here’s the short story of my strategy: for many intestinal problems, including in1. Discontinue the offender. digestion, acid reflux, inflammatory bowel

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M AY 2 0 1 9 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

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VOLUME XXXI, ISSUE 5

A newsletter for D.C. Seniors

DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE By Laura Newland, Director D.C. Department of Aging and Community Living Happy Older Americans Month! some of the toughest cases around Here at the Department of Aging mental health, maternal and infant and Community Living, we celebrate care and public health. As a leader, you every day of the year. But dur- she transformed the small D.C. Ofing the month of May, we’ll be fice on Aging into a premier governspending even more time celebrat- ment agency and a role model for ing all of your contributions to com- other states across the nation. munity and to this city. I always say She brought senior wellness to that D.C. is the best D.C., established the nacity in the world to age tion’s first freestanding — and you make it so. Senior Wellness Center It’s fitting that we — Washington Senior recognize and honor Wellness Center in Ms. E. Veronica Pace Ward 7 — and was induring Older Ameristrumental in opening cans Month. I was sadfive other wellness cendened to hear that Ms. ters across the city, Pace, former Executive which continue to operDirector of the D.C. Ofate today. fice on Aging (1983 – Ms. Pace was a tireless 1991 and 1997 – 2006), advocate for reducing passed away recently. health disparities across E. Veronica Pace tirelessly Ms. Pace led the way for served as executive director the city for the District’s this city to be a place of the D.C. Office on Aging. older residents, and where our older Washingtonians are launched numerous programs and active, engaged and contributing to services for seniors and caregivers our community every day. who are often overlooked but critical in I saw Ms. Pace in February at Con- making sure seniors can live in the gress Heights Senior Wellness Cen- communities they know and love. The ter. She made a surprise visit to wit- majority of programs started by Ms. ness Mayor Muriel Bowser signing Pace continue to serve residents today. legislation officially redesignating Ms. Pace was a public servant at the D.C. Office on Aging as the De- her core and a relentless champion partment of Aging and Community for District seniors. We will all miss Living — a cause she championed her energy, her spirit of advocacy, and since her days working under former her drive for doing what’s right for the Mayor Marion Barry. Her presence city and for our older residents. filled the room, just like her presence She would occasionally visit us at filled the city during her 35+ year ca- the Hayes Senior Wellness Center reer serving District residents. and comment, “I know every brick in Ms. Pace was a lifelong Washing- this building.” Similarly, she knew tonian who left an indelible mark on every corner of the city, the history of the city. A graduate of Dunbar High the Department of Aging and ComSchool who earned Howard Univer- munity Living, and how critical our sity undergraduate and School of So- work is in supporting our seniors. cial Work degrees, her first job was She was fiercely loyal to Washingworking for District government. As a social worker, she oversaw See DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE, page 29

May 2019

May is Older Americans Month Every May is Older Americans Month, held nationally to honor the contributions of older adults to their communities. The 2019 theme, Connect, Create, Contribute, encourages older adults and their communities to: Connect with friends, family and services that support participation. Create by engaging in activities that promote learning, health and personal enrichment. Contribute time, talent and life experience to benefit others.

Here is a list of Older Americans Month activities to be held across the city. May 8, 10 a.m. – 11a.m. 2019 Older Americans Month: Consumer Affairs Outreach Division of the Federal Communications Commission-Robocalls Washington Seniors Wellness Center 3001 Alabama Avenue, SE Call (202) 581-9355 for more information See MAY EVENTS, page 29

Spotlight on Aging

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — M AY 2 0 1 9

FY 2020 Senior LGTBQ Program Competitive Grant This Request for Application seeks to identify qualified applicants to provide seniors (60 years and older) who are Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Questioning (LGBTQ) with quality programs, services, and activities in a safe, affirming, caring, welcoming and healthy environment, with professional and culturally-competent staff. Successful applicants will establish and/or enhance services that support LGBTQ seniors in citywide programs to help them remain independent, healthy and connected to the community. Successful applicant(s) will be expected to plan and implement supportive programs in the following service areas: — Responsive and adaptable citywide programs based on community assessed needs — Outreach to LGBTQ community

that raises awareness and access to DCbased programs, activities and services — Reduce senior social isolation among the LGBTQ community through impactful activities and services, including but not limited to intergenerational, educational, cultural competency and volunteer opportunities. Each project is expected to include a strong sustainability plan. The deadline for application submission is May 17, 2019, at 4:00 p.m. Applications can be obtained from the Department of Aging and Community Living, 500 K Street, NE, Washington, DC 20002. For additional information regarding this application package, contact: Eric Manuel, Program Manager at eric.manuel@dc.gov, (202) 730-1745, or Jennifer Adu, Program Analyst at jennifer.adu@dc.gov, (202) 727-6601.

LGBTQ Seniors! Join the Department of Aging and Community Living for a ride on the Senior Trolley during the Capital Pride Parade

CAPITAL PRIDE PARADE Saturday, June 8 4:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Parade Route: Metro – Start: (RED) Dupont Circle Metro – End: (GREEN) U Street/African-Amer Civil War Memorial/ Cardozo – 13th Street Exit

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Get Involved Tuesday, May 7 • 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Monday, May 20

Department of Aging and Community Living and St. Paul’s at Rock Creek Church host a Community Health & Resource Fair 201 Allison St., NW – Ward 4 Contact: Kaye E. Savage (202) 726-2080

Third Annual Resource Fair Community Presentations and Workshop Please join the Department of Aging and Community Living and our partners for a workshop and presentations by DC DBH Consumer and Family Affairs Administration. Saint Elizabeth’s Hospital Auditorium 1100 Alabama Ave., SE – Ward 8

Tuesday, May 14 • 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. The Mayor’s Office on Returning Citizens will host a workshop with soon-to-bereleased inmates. The Department of Aging and Community Living will participate. Gilmer Federal Correctional Institute 201 FCI Lane, Glenville, WV 26351

Wednesday, May 15 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Legal Counsel for the Elderly presents National Senior Fraud Awareness Day, the 2019 Free Shredding and Fraud Awareness Forum. Pennsylvania Avenue Baptist Church 3000 Pennsylvania Ave., SE – Ward 7 Contact: Darnetta Bascomb (202) 4342127

Tuesday, May 21 • 7 – 9 p.m. Department of Aging and Community Living will provide a brief presentation on our resources and services. Fairlawn Citizens Association Anacostia Neighborhood Library 1800 Good Hope Rd., SE – Ward 8 Contact: Graylin W. Presbury, President

Thursday, May 22 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. The Senior Zone on 1340 AM Senior Spa Day Ft. Stanton Recreation Center 1812 Erie St., SE – Ward 8

Thursday, May 16 • 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Community Preservation and Development Corporation 7th Annual Senior Village Health & Informational Expo 2019 Bald Eagle Recreation Center 185 Joliet St., SE Ward 8 Contact: Katrina Polk (202) 699-1282

Saturday, May 18 12 p.m. – 3 p.m. The Department of Aging and Community Living will provide a presentation, “Safe at Home and Other Resources and Services” St. Gabriel Church Senior Luncheon 26 Grant Circle, NW – Ward 4 Contact: Josette (703) 298- 3120

Thursday, May 23 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. The Mayor’s Office on Returning Citizens will host a workshop with soon-to-bereleased inmates. The Department of Aging and Community Living will participate. Cumberland Federal Correctional Institute 14601 Burbridge Rd., SE Cumberland, Md. 21502

Wednesday, May 29 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Residents are invited to participate in and celebrate the 26th annual National Senior Health & Fitness Day. 1901 Evarts St., NE – Ward 5

Call 202-724-5626 to reserve your seat on the trolley today!

Director’s message From page 28

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

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

Director Laura Newland

Editor Darlene Nowlin

Photographer Selma Dillard

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

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

ton, D.C., and that meant that she was fiercely loyal to seniors. She went from place to place in this city exhorting everyone she saw, whether politicians, business leaders or journalists, to “take care of our seniors.” Thank you, Ms. Pace — for everything. During Older Americans Month, I

May events From page 28

May 9, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. East River Family Strengthening Collaborative, Inc. Older Americans Month Celebration! St. Luke’s Center 4923 50th St SE, Contact: Tiara Anderson (202) 5344880 for more information May 15, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Older Americans Month Elder Housing Forum

encourage you to join in one — or several — of the activities planned throughout the city. Take a look at the event calendars on these pages and give us a call if you need help deciding. Connect with your community, create something new, and celebrate the contributions you’ve made and continue to make. In doing so, you’ll be celebrating the life and legacy of E. Veronica Pace. See you out in the community!

Washington Seniors Wellness Center 3001 Alabama Ave. SE Call (202) 581-9355 May 17, 10 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Annual Older Americans Month Health & Resource Fair Nineteenth Street Baptist Church 4606 16th Street, NW Contact: Edwinta Jenkins (202) 882-1824 May 23, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Seabury Senior Day Out Celebration Capital City Hall of Distinction 1250 Saratoga Street, NE – Ward 5 Contact: Tinya Lacey (202) 529-8701

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M AY 2 0 1 9 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Money Law &

COMMON MONEY MISTAKES Being overly optimistic can prove costly. There are times you really need to buy insurance, write a will, or hire a financial advisor COUNTING ON RETIREES A short-term part-time job with the 2020 Census might be just the thing for some retirees; how to find one UNPLEASANT SURPRISES Not yet on Medicare? If you use drug company discount coupons at the pharmacy, be sure your insurance will credit your deductible in full

Get your grandkids in the giving spirit By Neale Godfrey Charitable giving is a subject close to my heart and something I have emphasized to my children — and now with my grandchildren — since they were young. It is an opportunity for you to impart your personal values to your family. My mantra is: You are not your money. You are your values. A charitable donation can be made in many ways. It can be as small a gesture as giving spare change to a homeless person — offering a powerful visual lesson for a child to see that there are people less fortunate than themselves. It is also important to give to a specific charity that you and your grandchild have selected together. Perhaps the most precious gift of all, though, is the gift of time and consideration. Volunteerism is a crucial concept. When your grandchild volunteers to help others, they become empowered by their acts and very aware of their link with the community. Charity is also a key element of managing your finances responsibly.

Giving of yourself Explain to your grandchild that volunteer-

ing together can be fun. This is a great activity that can become a cherished memory of the precious time you spend with them. With that in mind, you may want to look for something that matches your grandchild’s talents or interests. For instance, if your grandchild is interested in soccer, they could find a preschool program that needs help supervising young players. When my kids were young, we went into a local hospital and helped to serve meals. Now my granddaughter and I make candles and “fun slime” together. There is a local store that will sell our goods. We have set up a “company” we call Grandma and Me. A portion of our sales goes to a charity that my granddaughter has selected, Freedom from Fistula, which provides care to women in Africa injured during prolonged and obstructed childbirth. I explained this charity to my granddaughter and said I am so passionate about it because I gave birth to her mother by caesarean section. If I had been from an African village, I may not have been so lucky. If my daughter had not been born, I wouldn’t have my granddaughter. She is now passionate about this charity

as well, and our personal connection to the issue formed the basis of our business, Grandma and Me.

How to start Watching the news together, talking to friends or just helping your grandchildren observe the world around them can help uncover volunteer projects that are appropriate and will interest them. There are kids’ volunteer groups in every school and house of worship. It should take only one or two phone calls to locate something in your community. For instance, some nursing homes welcome people to come with their friendly dogs who just love to be petted by the people in the facility. What an easy way to spread some joy.

Empower them to act Teach your grandchildren that they have the power to do something to make positive change. Start the discussion by letting them know the organizations you have donated to and where you have volunteered. Let’s say your grandchildren want to

raise money for a local cause. Make sure your young ones just don’t complain about a problem or expect someone else to do something about it. You want your grandchildren to decide that they can make an impact and that they are dedicated enough to do something about the problem. Next, set a goal. Have your grandchild spell out, in one simple sentence, what their goal is. For example: “We, the kids of Chester, N.J., want to raise money for a children’s playground in Newark so kids there can have a place to play.” Set a date to accomplish the goal. (This is important. Imagine if their teacher said, “Just hand in your homework whenever you’d like!”) Have your grandchild set a realistic date for completion and a timetable for sub goals to be met along the way. Most of all, remember that volunteering instills positive values in your grandchildren that will stay with them their entire lives. You are showing your grandchildren that they can make a difference. What a great gift! © 2019 The Kiplinger Washington Editors. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Don’t help scammers steal from Medicare By Ricardo Alonso-Zaldivar Last month, Federal agents broke up a billion-dollar Medicare scam that peddled unneeded orthopedic braces to hundreds of thousands of seniors. Two dozen people were charged, including doctors accused of writing bogus prescriptions. The Justice Department said the scheme relied on overseas call centers to pry Medicare numbers from beneficiaries. Authorities also announced charges against owners of call centers, telemedicine firms and medical equipment companies that shipped unneeded back, shoulder, wrist and knee braces. Profits from the scheme were laundered through offshore shell companies and then used to buy high-end cars, yachts and luxury homes here and abroad, officials said. Medicare’s anti-fraud unit said it’s taking action against 130 medical equipment companies implicated. The companies

billed the program a total of $1.7 billion. The actual loss to Medicare was estimated at more than $1.2 billion. The Health and Human Services (HHS) inspector general’s office said the fastmoving scam was fueled by kickbacks among the parties involved. The FBI, the IRS and 17 U.S. attorney’s offices took part in the crackdown. “The telemedicine we are talking about is basically a tele-scam,” said Gary Cantrell, who oversees fraud investigations for the HHS inspector general’s office.

Reported by many seniors Officials said the scam was detected last summer as complaints from beneficiaries poured in to the Medicare fraud hotline. They said telemarketers would reach out to older adults, offering “free” orthopedic braces, also touted through television and radio ads. Interested beneficiaries

would be patched through to call centers, part of what officials described as an “international telemarketing network” with operations in the Philippines and throughout Latin America. After verifying their Medicare coverage, the seniors would be transferred to telemedicine companies for consultations with doctors, who wrote prescriptions for orthopedic braces, regardless of whether or not the patients needed them. Sometimes the same patient would get several braces. The call centers would collect prescriptions and sell them to medical equipment companies, which would ship the braces to beneficiaries and bill Medicare. Medical equipment companies would get $500 to $900 per brace from Medicare and would pay kickbacks of nearly $300 per brace. Officials said it’s one of the biggest frauds the inspector general’s office has seen. “The breadth of this nationwide con-

spiracy should be frightening to all who rely on some form of healthcare,” IRS criminal investigations chief Don Fort said in a statement. “The conspiracy details broad corruption, massive amounts of greed, and systemic flaws in our healthcare system that were exploited by the defendants.” Attempts to reach defendants named by the Justice Department were unsuccessful. The investigation is continuing. Authorities asked doctors who have been involved with telemedicine and medical equipment fraud to voluntarily come forward.

A huge, costly problem Healthcare fraud is a pervasive problem that costs taxpayers tens of billions of dollars a year. The true extent of it is unknown, and some cases involve gray areas See SCAMMERS, page 33

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WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — M AY 2 0 1 9

Bond funds help avoid interest rate risk Traditional bond funds lost value last year rate risk because the bonds held mature at as the Federal Reserve steadily increased in- the time you wish to liquidate. Two financially stable fund terest rates. The Fed could also families that specialize in this increase interest rates in 2019, type of investment are Invesco and this causes some concern and BlackRock. Both compaamong bond fund investors. nies issue exchange-traded One of the disadvantages of funds (ETFs). traditional bond funds in a cliInvesco invests in corporate mate of rising interest rates is and emerging markets with that there is no fixed maturity maturities every year up to date; fund managers are con2028. BlackRock iShares are intinually modifying their portvested in corporate and municifolios. Accordingly, when an THE SAVINGS pal bonds with maturities from investor sells shares of the GAME 2020 to 2028. These ETFs have fund, he or she may face a By Elliot Raphaelson modest fees of approximately loss of net asset value (NAV). There are ways that bond investors can 0.5 percent per year. If you invest in traditional bond funds, mitigate interest rate risk. The simplest is to buy individual bonds and hold them to you can find some funds with lower annual maturity. In this way, an investor is sure to fees. However, as I indicated, traditional receive the par value of the bond when it bond funds expose you to the risk of selling matures. Laddering bond purchases makes your shares at a time when the NAV is it easier to hold issues to maturity and avoid lower because of unfavorable interest rate increases. having to sell in a time of rising rates. The major disadvantage of holding individual bonds is that it exposes an investor to Target fund downsides Target-maturity bond funds do have greater default risk, especially with corporate bonds. An investor could buy U.S. Trea- some disadvantages. The bonds held in the sury notes and bonds, but the added securi- fund mature in the same year, but some will ty comes at the cost of lower coupon rates. mature months before the fund’s closing date. The cash associated with the sale of Benefits of target funds these bonds will be idle and have negligible There is another option for those looking return. for higher coupon rates, the benefits of diAnother disadvantage is that some of versification and relative protection from in- the bonds in the portfolio might be called, terest rate risk: target-maturity bond funds. and the fund management will not be able These funds hold bonds that mature in to invest these proceeds with high returns. the same year. For example, assume you Another potential disadvantage is liquidknow that you want to invest in bonds for a ity risk: If you decide to sell your shares 10-year period and then liquidate your hold- prior to the closing date you selected, you ings because you are facing a specific pay- could be facing some loss in value as there ment, such as college tuition. A target-matu- may be insufficient interest in purchasing rity bond fund allows you to avoid interest your shares.

What to do If you are a short-term bond investor and are concerned about interest rate risk, invest in bond funds with three- to five-year maturities. You will receive reasonable returns with minimum interest rate risk. If you are a long-term bond investor, then traditional bond funds have advan-

tages over the target-maturity bond funds. However, if you are pretty certain as to when you need the funds in your bond portfolio, and you are concerned about interest rate risk, then you can consider target-maturity bond funds as an alternative. © 2019 Elliot Raphaelson. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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Money mistakes even smart people make By Liz Weston Certified financial planner Jill Schlesinger has seen smart people make some pretty spectacular money mistakes. One client who repeatedly refused to buy disability insurance later developed multiple sclerosis. A doctor she knew put off writing a will and left behind a six-figure tax bill. A technology company engineer balked at her suggestion to sell some of his stock options, only to watch their value — and his retirement plans — evaporate when the market plunged. Schlesinger, a CBS News business analyst and author of The Dumb Things Smart People Do With Their Money, admits to financial missteps as well, including waiting for “just the right moment” to invest and thus missing a big jump in the stock market. “We’re emotional animals, not just ra-

tional ones,” Schlesinger said. “So even otherwise intelligent people are stymied by their emotions — usually fear and greed — and their cognitive biases.” In fact, a whole field of economics is devoted to exploring how we make financial decisions, including the bad ones. Behavioral economics tries to pinpoint where our brains and emotions lead us wrong, as well as what we can do about it.

insurance, for example, thought he wouldn’t need it because he was healthy. The stock option guy didn’t want to sell a winning investment, not understanding how vulnerable he was to a downturn. The doctor just didn’t want to think about dying. The antidote to this kind of thinking is to stop trying to calculate the odds of something going wrong. Focus instead on how much you or your loved ones have to lose if the worst happens. If you can’t easily absorb that loss, then buy the insurance, diversify your investments and write your will.

The value of pessimism Most of us don’t like to dwell on what could go wrong, Schlesinger noted, and many of us believe we’re better at predicting the future than we actually are. Overconfidence, excessive optimism and the conviction that the recent past will continue into the future mean many of us don’t adequately protect ourselves. The client who wouldn’t buy disability

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Most financial advisers aren’t required to put your interests ahead of their own. They can sell you an investment that costs more or performs worse than an alternative, simply because it puts more money in their pocket. This lack of advisors’ fiduciary duty has convinced many people they’re better off handling their own financial affairs. A do-ityourself approach may actually be appropriate, Schlesinger said, when you’re getting a handle on the basics — paying off credit card debt, starting to save for retirement and building an emergency fund. That said, you still would be smart to seek out an expert if you’re confronting a situation that’s complex or out of the ordinary, she said. See MONEY MISTAKES, page 33

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WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — M AY 2 0 1 9

Scammers From page 30 of complex payment policies. Experts say part of the problem is that Medicare is required to pay medical bills promptly, which means money often goes out before potential frauds get flagged. Investigators call that “pay and chase.” In recent years, Medicare has tried to adapt techniques used by credit card companies to head off fraud. Law enforcement coordination has grown, with strike forces of federal prosecutors and agents, along with state counterparts, specializing in healthcare investigations. Officials said the government has options to recoup at least some of the money lost to Medicare, including seizing fraudsters’ assets and accounts, as well as property pur-

Money mistakes From page 32 If the IRS is auditing you, you need a tax pro. If you’re being sued by a creditor, you need a lawyer. If you’re about to inherit a large sum — more money than you’re accustomed to dealing with — you should talk to a fee-only financial planner who agrees in writing to put your interests first. The more money you have, the more likely you are to face complex situations that require expertise you don’t have. The consequences of making a mistake or not

chased with the proceeds of the scam. The Medicare beneficiaries drawn into the orthopedic braces scam didn’t have to pay anything up front, but Cantrell said they have been harmed as well: A beneficiary’s private information, once in the hands of fraudsters, can be resold for many illegal purposes. Additionally, if a beneficiary whose information was misused ever does need an orthopedic brace, he or she may encounter waiting periods from Medicare. The program limits how often it pays for certain supplies and equipment. “It can be very attractive to receive equipment,” Cantrell said. “But after giving out your identifying information, it could be compromised to perpetuate additional fraud. There is no fraud without the ID number of a Medicare beneficiary.” —AP spotting a problem can be greater as well, which is why financial planners often hire their own financial planners. Two areas that are particularly tricky are estate planning and retirement income strategies, including when to start Social Security and how to tap retirement funds. The cost of getting an expert second opinion could be a fraction of what you would pay for a mistake. “We all make dumb mistakes, but some of them can be costly — and life-altering,” Schlesinger said. —AP

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M AY 2 0 1 9 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Census offers temp jobs for retirees Dear Savvy Senior, cruiting more than 500,000 temporary workThe U.S. Census Bureau is in the ers to help carry out the upcoming 2020 Cenprocess of recruiting thousus national head count of every sands of workers for tempoperson living in the country. rary jobs to help collect valuThe U.S. Census helps deterable data for the 2020 Cenmine each state’s representasus, and retirees are ideal tion in Congress; how funds are candidates. Can you write a spent for schools, hospitals, column to get the word out? roads; and provides information Thanks for your help! to guide many decisions made — Census Recruiter by government agencies, priDear Recruiter, vate businesses and institutions. I’m happy to oblige, and I Among the jobs within the agree. This once-a-decade job SAVVY SENIOR census are working in the field opportunity is a great fit for re- By Jim Miller canvassing, updating maps, tirees who have some free doing follow-up interviews with time on their hands and wouldn’t mind citizens in your community, working in the earning some extra income while helping office as a clerk doing administrative tasks the community. and overseeing field staff. Attention retirees! The United States CenSome jobs will begin this summer, but sus Bureau is currently in the process of re- the majority of positions will begin in late April 2020 and last a month or two. These temporary part-time positions are located in every county throughout the United States and Puerto Rico. Some positions require evening or weekend shifts because you must be available to interview members of the public when they’re at home. And all positions require several days of online and classroom training. The pay ranges between $13.50 and $30 per hour, depending on position and location. To find the pay rates in your area, see 2020census.gov/en/jobs/locations.html. See CENSUS JOBS, page 36

BEACON BITS

May 19

PIANO CONCERT The Washington

Piano Society’s Spring Concert will take place on Sunday, May 19, at 3 p.m. at Calvary Lutheran Church, 9545 Georgia Ave. in Silver Spring, Md. Listen to pieces by Bach, Chopin, Mendelssohn and Rachmaninoff. The concert is free, but donations are welcome. For more information, call (301) 793-1863 or visit dcpianosociety.org.

May 15

SENIOR HOUSING FAIR Learn about your op-

tions for staying in your current home or how to downsize into a new place. Speakers and vendors will gather on Wednesday, May 15, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Holiday Park Senior Center, 3950 Ferrara Dr., Silver Spring, Md. For more information, call (240) 777-4999.

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Law & Money

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

Pre-Medicare? Beware twist on co-pays By Mary Kane If you are not yet on Medicare and use a drug manufacturerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s discount coupon or co-pay assistance card to save money on medicine, check your health plan before you fill your next prescription. Otherwise, you could be in for an unpleasant surprise at the pharmacy counter. You might be subject to a co-pay â&#x20AC;&#x153;accumulator program,â&#x20AC;? which is a new restriction that prevents your discount card or coupon from counting toward your deductible. Some experts say co-pay accumulators drive down drug prices as patients seek cheaper drugs. But the programs also add complexity for people who are ill and dealing with health issues, said Dan Klein, president of the Patient Access Network Foundation, which provides charitable co-pay help.

How the program works Co-pay accumulator programs began appearing in 2016 in employer-provided private health plans and in Affordable Care Act marketplace plans. The programs change the way your out-of-pocket costs are calculated if you use a manufacturerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s discount card or coupon to reduce your prescription costs. Patients can download discount coupons or cards from a drug companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website or get them from their doctors. You use them with your insurance; in some cases, you pay as little as $5 or $10 for your medication. But the total cost for the medicine counts toward your deductible, substantially lowering your out-of-pocket costs for future refills. If a plan has a co-pay accumulator adjustment program, you still can use a co-pay as-

sistance card or coupon. But the drugâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s full cost wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t count against your deductible. And most assistance cards have a dollar limit on how much they will pay. After that, you still have to pay your full deductible before your planâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cost-sharing kicks in, said Anna Hyde, vice president of advocacy and access at the Arthritis Foundation. Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s say your health plan has a $4,000 deductible and your arthritis drug costs $3,000 a month. At the start of the year,

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TELL YOUR STORY

The silver StoryCorps vehicle is parked in Downtown Silver Spring, Md. Stop by and record your story now through May 22. For more information on the project and its connection to the National Archives, visit StoryCorps.org.

May 18

CARNIVAL FUN

Spin on a tea cup ride, snack on some funnel cake and play carnival games at the annual McLean Day on Saturday, May 18, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The festival will be held at Lewinsville Park, 1659 Chain Bridge Rd., McLean, Va. For more information or a map of attractions, visit mcleancenter.org/special-events or call (703) 790-0123.

May 30

FLUTE CONCERT

Relax and enjoy the entire Hummel sonata for flute and piano plus other classical works. The free one-hour performance will be held on Thursday, May 30, at 7:15 p.m. at the Levine School of Music, 2801 Upton St., NW in Washington D.C. Free parking. For more information, call (301) 770-3269.

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BEACON BITS

May 5+

you use your co-pay assistance card at the pharmacy, which covers most of the cost of the drug, and you make your usual copayment, Hyde says. But within three months, you reach the limit on your co-pay assistance. When you pick up your medicine in April, you owe $3,000 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; the drugâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s full cost. Without the accumulator, you would have already met your deductible while

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Census jobs From page 34 To be able to work for the 2020 census you must: • Be at least 18 years old; • Have a valid Social Security number; • Be a U.S. citizen; • Have a valid email address; • Complete an application and answer assessment questions; • Be registered with the Selective Service System or have a qualifying exemption,

Co-pays From page 35 using the discount card. When the assistance ran out, you’d only pay your plan’s cost-sharing for your drug —sometimes as

M AY 2 0 1 9 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

if you are a male born after Dec. 31, 1959; • Pass a Census-performed criminal background check and a review of criminal records, including fingerprinting; • Commit to completing training; and • Be available to work flexible hours, which can include days, evenings, and/or weekends. In addition, most census jobs require employees to have access to a vehicle and a valid driver’s license, unless public transportation is readily available. Access to a computer with internet and an email ac-

count are needed to complete training.

low as 5 percent. With the co-pay accumulator, you owe the full deductible, which can be thousands of dollars. About 30 percent of large employers have a co-pay accumulator program now, according to a survey by the National

Business Group on Health. Co-pay assistance from manufacturers or from co-pay charitable foundations has become more popular in recent years, as more people are living with chronic conditions such as cancer or Parkinson’s, which require the regular use of costly drugs, and as high-deductible insurance plans have become more common. About 43 percent of workers with private coverage had a high-deductible plan in 2017, government figures show.

CONNECT-A-RIDE Free Transportation Information and Personalized Help

Public, private and volunteer transportation referrals Free travel training workshops – Learn to use Metrobus and Metrorail

Call 301.738.3252 E-mail ConnectARide@AccessJCA.org Monday thru Friday • 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m 24-hour voice mail • Translation service available Connect-A-Ride is a service of the Jewish Council for the Aging for adults age 50 and older and adults with disabilities living in Montgomery County. It is funded by Montgomery County Department of Transportation.

8127

52847

How to apply The first step is to complete the online job application at 2020census.gov/en/jobs. The process takes about 30 minutes and will include some assessment questions about your education, work and other experience. If you’re a veteran who would like to claim veterans’ preference, which provides preference over nonveteran applicants, you’ll need supporting documentation. For more information on the 2020 Census,

You’re safe if on Medicare But Medicare beneficiaries can’t use copay cards or other co-pay assistance with their insurance, so co-pay accumulator programs aren’t a concern after enrolling in Medicare. Medicare beneficiaries are permitted to

or if you have questions or problems with the application process, call (855) 562-2020. After you apply, an interviewer will reach out to potential hires to conduct a phone interview, but not all applicants will be interviewed. Job offers are made verbally, but candidates will also receive a letter by email. Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of The Savvy Senior book.

get co-pay assistance from charitable organizations, such as the PAN Foundation, the HealthWell Foundation or the Patient Advocate Foundation. The charitable help applies to Part D’s out-of-pocket spending requirements to reach catastrophic coverage, under which beneficiaries pay only 5 percent of a drug’s cost. If you are not yet on Medicare and are concerned your health plan may have a copay accumulator, call your provider directly or check your insurance plan documents, said Carla Dellaporta, director of education for NeedyMeds. The programs often aren’t listed on the summary of benefits page and may be labeled differently across plans. © 2019 Kiplinger. Environmental Nutrition. All rights reserved. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Law & Money

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — M AY 2 0 1 9

Councilmembers: Support DC Seniors by Funding Home & Community Services Many DC seniors rely on home and community services for meals, getting dressed, and trips to the doctor—all to live independently in their own homes and communities. But without essential funding for these programs, seniors could be forced into expensive nursing homes, costing taxpayers more. That’s why AARP DC urges Councilmembers to support seniors in the Fiscal Year 2020 budget by fully funding key initiatives, including the 10 Year Senior Strategic Plan, the LongTerm Care Services and Supports Act of 2018, and the Grandparent Caregivers Program. We also call for more investment in nutrition services for seniors, with an additional dietitian in each Ward.

Take Action: Tell your Councilmember to support DC seniors in the Fiscal Year 2020 budget. Call 1-844-254-6885 today. facebook.com/AARPDC @AARPDC aarp.org/DC

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M AY 2 0 1 9 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Travel Leisure &

Cruising Alaska in a small boat grants glimpses of rainforests, waterways and plenty of wildlife. See story on page 40.

Alabama’s Gulf coast popular year-round

For beach bums and active hikers Of course, the beach, lapped by the bluegreen waters of the Gulf of Mexico, is the

reason most people visit Gulf Shores, a town of about 12,000 residents, and nearby Orange Beach, about half that size. Between the two towns lies what many locals consider to be the best of Alabama’s 22 state parks: Gulf State Park. While the park is home to the shortest stretch of beach in the region, its other claims to fame account for its reputation and popularity. Nine distinct ecosystems in its 6,000-plus acres include pine forests, coastal hardwood swamps and freshwater marshes. A 27-mile backcountry trail complex, accessible to people with varying abilities, leads walkers past boggy streams and three spring-fed freshwater lakes. Hikers may spot white-tailed deer, an alligator basking in the sun or even a bobcat. The park’s nature center and butterfly garden offer a glimpse of colorful wildlife. Boats and fishing gear are available for rent, as well as lakeside cabins, cottages and campsites.

PHOTO BY CHRIS GRANGER, GULF SHORES AND ORANGE BEACH TOURISM

By Victor Block My first thought was that I must have taken a wrong turn. The scene outside the car windows — Dollar Stores, Waffle Houses and tattoo parlors — hardly matched the almost poetic name of my destination: Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Ala. Small, aging wooden houses, some of which had seen better days, lined the narrow lanes off the main road. Before long, though, I came upon glitzy high-rise condominium buildings standing shoulder to shoulder along a broad stretch of sugar-white sand. Then it dawned on me: I was in a something-for-everyone kind of place. Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, perched on the southernmost tip of Alabama, combine the usual list of to-dos and to-sees of many sun-and-sand destinations, but they have some unique surprises. Folks who want a respite from the sun can explore a historic fort or museums devoted to Native Americans or naval aviation. For foodies, the area’s restaurants range from elegant to beach-dive casual. And those who like to commune with nature have plenty of ways to do so.

What’s the attraction to Orange Beach and Gulf Shores, Alabama? The beach is one, of course. But those who venture beyond the sugar-white sand will find backcountry hiking trails, excellent fishing, dolphin-watching and plenty of other outdoor fun.

Museums, cruises, fishing Nearby Fort Morgan, a state historic site, has a 14-mile seashore. Visitors can sit on the beach, bike, fish, kayak, picnic or visit a pentagon-shaped fort, completed in 1834. The structure occupies a strategic location, where Mobile Bay meets the Gulf of Mexico, and was built to strengthen the coastal defense of the United States following the War of 1812. PHOTO BY CHRIS GRANGER, GULF SHORES AND ORANGE BEACH TOURISM

At Fort Morgan, on Alabama’s coast, visitors can tour an 1834 fortress, artillery batteries and a military museum — and enjoy a picnic lunch on the nearby beach.

The site contains historic military buildings; artillery batteries constructed between 1895 and 1904; and a museum displaying uniforms, weapons, photographs and letters of solders who served there. To top it off, the fort fronts the same kind of broad, gentle, snow-hued beach that is characteristic of the area. If you prefer to take to the sea without any effort, you can book a sunset, dolphinwatching or dinner cruise instead of kayaking or paddleboarding, For fishing, some try their luck off a pier that stretches 1,540 feet over the Gulf of Mexico. Snorkelers and divers who prefer to be in, rather than above, the water can explore a system of artificial reefs with experiences geared to everyone from children and beginners to advanced divers. Golfers will find 14 courses in the area, including Craft Farms and Kiva Dunes, which rank high on Golf Digest’s “best courses” lists.

Plenty for history buffs For those who want to learn, not burn, a good place to start is the Gulf Shores Museum, located in a historic beach house. Permanent exhibits tell the story of 19thcentury settlers in the area and of hurricanes, including how they originate and

how a community rebuilds after a storm. Housed in a former school built in 1910, the Orange Beach Indian & Sea Museum provides introductions to the area’s Native American and fishing heritages. Battleship Memorial Park, about an hour away in Mobile, is home to the massive USS Alabama, which saw action for 37 months during World War II, as well as a wartime submarine and a collection of historic aircraft. An hour drive in the other direction leads to the National Museum of Naval Aviation in Pensacola, Fla., the largest such museum in the world. Despite its name, the collection of more than 250 aircraft represents every military branch. The complex also is home to the famous Blue Angels, the aerobatic team of aviators from the Navy and Marines that thrills onlookers. Not surprisingly, the area has been recognized and highly ranked in “best of” lists compiled by the likes of USA Today, Reader’s Digest and Travel + Leisure. Battleships, historic airplanes, golf and a historic fort would seem to have little in common with an inviting beach destination. That’s the point. Inclusion on “Top 10,” “Best Places” and See BEACH, page 39

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WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — M AY 2 0 1 9

Beach From page 38 “Most Beautiful” lists is based upon the magnificent stretches of beach as well as the long list of other attractions that Gulf Shores and Orange Beach offer those who visit. As one repeat visitor told me, “I came here the first time for the beaches. Now I return for everything else.”

If you go Given the nature-friendly environment of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, the most inviting place to stay fits very comfortably into that theme. The Lodge at Gulf State Park is a trendsetter when it comes to sustainability and environmental protection. In small ways and large, its owners have incorporated numerous innovative efforts into its design, construction and operation. The building contains 20 percent recy-

cled materials, and three-quarters of construction waste was recycled rather than going to a landfill. The lodge was designed in a way to protect the sand dunes. Invasive plants were replaced with native species that thrive without irrigation, chemical pesticides or fertilizers. Condensate water from the guestroom air conditioning system is filtered and used in the swimming pool. Straws in the restaurant are made of reusable wood, and words on pens in guest rooms bear the message, “I used to be a newspaper.” Rates at the Lodge begin at $129. For more information, call (251) 540-4000 or visit lodgeatgulfstatepark.com. Of an estimated 200 restaurants in the area, only a couple of handfuls are chain eateries. The upscale Perch dining room in the Lodge at Gulf State Park has great views of the Gulf. Try the Gulf gumbo ($9) or jumbo prawns ($20). Stuffed quail ($28) is one of several land options. First-time diners at Doc’s Seafood

Shack & Oyster Bar soon understand why the modest eatery is a local legend. Many regulars go for the signature fried shrimp ($17). Others opt for the “create your own” seafood platter (from $21) or fried chicken basket ($9-$13). For more information, call (251) 981-6999. Gulf Shores and Orange Beach is a yearround vacation destination. During sum-

mer, the sea breeze provides relief from high temperatures and humidity. Winters generally are sunny and mild, with daily highs close to 60 degrees. The ocean is warm from May through November, with temperatures often in the low 80s. For more information about Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, visit gulfshores.com or call (800) 745-7263.

BEACON BITS

May 18

ALZHEIMER’S INFORMATION

Experts will present information on “Alzheimer’s Disease, Brain Health and the Black Community,” hosted by the Greater Washington Urban League Guild, on Saturday, May 18, from 12 to 3 p.m. The symposium will take place at the First Congregational United Church of Christ, 945 G St., NW. For more information, call (202) 360-1858 or email guild@gwul.org.

BEACON BITS

June 5

RICHMOND ROAD TRIP

On Wednesday, June 5, hop aboard a bus to Richmond’s Maymont and Lavender Fields Farm. Tour the Gilded Age mansion of Maymont and its Italianate and Japanese gardens. Then stop by Lavender Fields Farm for an herb class — and a taste of lavender lemonade and lavender ice cream. Trip departs Green Spring Gardens at 8 a.m. and returns at 5 p.m. Register online for $113 at fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes/ or call (703) 642-5173.

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

WOLF SANCTAURY, PA Sept 12 – 13 ................................................................................$349pp Also includes 1-night hotel, 2 meals, Yuengling Brewery, Colebrookdale Railroad and Farm for aged Equines.

Price based on double occupancy

ATLANTIC CITY OVERNIGHT, Sept 24 – 25 ......................................................................... $215pp Stay at Bally’s Atlantic City Hotel & Casino, 1 buffet dinner, slot play and show!

Price based on double occupancy

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M AY 2 0 1 9 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

A unique visit to Alaska in a small yacht By Don Mankin The Inside Passage in Southeast Alaska is the kind of place that inspires multiple visits. On my first two trips, I cruised past its lush rainforests and coastal mountains via the large, state-run ferries of the Alaska Marine Highway. On my most recent trip, though, I hopped aboard the 85-foot MV Windward, the first charter yacht in Alaska, built in 1924. With only four cabins, the yacht is more intimate than the ferries and giant

cruise ships that sail up and down the Inside Passage all summer. On the seven-day trip I got to know everyone, including the three-person crew. The Windward was able to access coves and bays that larger boats cannot. And our itinerary was flexible, enabling us to change course to see whales, kayak in protected waters or dodge icebergs.

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seem longer. The soft green forest muted the sounds we made to scare off the bears — or at least not catch them by surprise. Our noisy efforts must have worked, since we didn’t run into any. I was both disappointed and relieved. Another day we hiked up a hill alongside a roaring river to a natural hot spring. After picking my way along a rocky, muddy trail, I felt as if I had earned the soak.

Animal planet We saw tons of wildlife, pun intended. We spent almost two full days spotting whales — mostly humpbacks and a few orcas. Some were in the distance, but many swam alongside the boat, flipping their tails as if waving goodbye before diving. One swam so close I got a photo of his nostril-like blowholes; another breached See ALASKA, page 41

PHOTO BY DON MANKIN

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silver world, passing islands covered in tall evergreens. Tufts of clouds and fingers of mist hung in the air between the hills and islands, wrapping the rolling contours of green in wispy cotton. On sunny days, we sat in shirtsleeves on the deck, soaking up the warm rays. I woke up early every morning to stand on the deck and watch eagles swoop, salmon leap and sea lions play as the sky turned colors in the emerging dawn. There was plenty of time to read, nap, contemplate, or look for whales spouting in the distance. Despite the relaxed pace, though, there were plenty of active moments. We kayaked for an hour or so most days, usually an easy paddle in a protected cove, along a beach or around an island. One day we disembarked to hike through an old-growth rainforest to a lake. It was only three miles round trip, but the rough trail and the fresh bear scat made it

www.hillsideseniorlivingapts.com

The narrow fjords and glaciers of Southeast Alaska are best explored via small boats or kayaks. The area is known for bears, moose and whales.

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WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — M AY 2 0 1 9

Alaska From page 40 just a few feet off our bow, spraying me with an impressive splash as he flopped back into the water. We also spent an afternoon at a fish hatchery, watching a dozen bears scrounge for salmon in the river just 20 or 30 yards away. We had enough time to note the bears’ personalities, relationships and even a dramatic teeth-baring exchange of snarls and growls between two bears challenging each other over a choice fishing spot in the river. It’s hard to top whales and bears, but the last two days of the trip came close, cruising down Endicott Arm, a long fjord carved deep into the snow-capped mountains of the Coast Range.

A fjord and a glacier Our first stop was Fords Terror, a steep and narrow fjord branching off from Endicott Arm, named after a naval crewman who rowed through the narrows in 1899 at slack tide only to spend several scary

hours trapped by the turbulent, twisting currents when the tide surged out. To avoid any terror, we waited for high tide before entering the narrows. It was a breathtaking ride between granite walls 2,000 feet high with streams cascading through the seams in the rock. John Muir compared these cliffs to Yosemite Valley. That only begins to describe the dramatic beauty of this place, one of the most spectacular places I’ve ever visited. We stopped for the night at the end of the fjord, which felt like the end of the world. The next morning, it was worth getting up early to watch the sun touch the snowcapped peaks behind the walls of rock, then creep down the sheer walls to the water. Mist hung over the stunning reflections of the walls in the water, and the fragrance of evergreens filled the air. The only sound was the soft rustle of distant waterfalls. On the way out of the fjord at high tide, we got in the kayaks to observe the waterfalls up close and paddle the last couple of miles back through the now-placid nar-

rows to our boat waiting for us on the other side. Once aboard we headed to Dawes Glacier, a massive tidal glacier — about 200 feet high and a half mile across — that carved out the fjord millions of years ago. Our captain carefully threaded his way through the many icebergs and bergy bits floating by. We gazed at the glacier for hours, bundled up against the cold wind, listening for the

cracks of thunder that signaled the calving of chunks of ancient, deep blue ice, some as big as houses, crashing into the water. There, on essentially the last day of the trip, I knew I probably wouldn’t come back this way again. It would be hard to match this trip, and impossible to beat. Don Mankin was hosted on this trip by Wilderness Travel, wildernesstravel.com. For more information and photos, see his blog at adventuretransformations.com.

PHOTO BY DON MANKIN

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Viewed from the deck of a 1924 charter yacht, Alaskan sunrises can be a peaceful, once-in-a-lifetime experience.

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M AY 2 0 1 9 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Grandparent’s quandary: what’s my name? By Alice Shapin We’re about to become grandparents! And to be honest, since we are the last of our friends to have that honor, I’ve heard some unique stories about choosing a name. Not the baby’s name. Thank goodness that’s not our problem. My husband and I are trying to figure out what we will be called by the grandkids. It seems that whenever I get together with my peers, this topic always comes up. Maybe it’s because as baby boomers “Grandma” — or even worse, “Bubbe” — just doesn’t seem to fit. After all, our generation does everything to stay young and active. We practice

yoga, do Pilates and lift weights. We wear skinny jeans, never housecoats. We try not to let our gray or our wrinkles show. (Yes, it’s hair dye and Botox.) So, with all of our efforts to stay young, we certainly don’t want an old-fashioned name. I can’t imagine my mother’s generation sitting around discussing what to be called. It was just assumed it would be “Grandma” or its ethnic equivalent. I never thought of my grandma as young. She wore the same black-laced shoes and the dowdy dresses at age 60 as she did at 80. “Young” and “active” are not the two words I would use to describe her. So what are some of the names my generation are adopting? My hair colorist pro-

claimed, “I’m too young to be ‘Grandma.’ From this day on, I’m going to be known as ‘Goddess.’” Similar sentiments were echoed by my friend Andrea. “My nickname used to be ‘Andee;’ hence my new name, ‘Grandee.’” Gail took a different route. “I was listed in my sons’ phone books under ICE (standing for “in case of emergency”). So, when I would call the boys, their wives would say, ‘Ice is on the phone.’” When she became a grandmother, Gail decided to stick with Ice — until her oldest grandchild changed it to Icey. She likes it, she said, “and I’ve never met another one.” Robin searched the Internet for grandmother names that were either unusual or in a different language. “I wasn’t coming up with something that I could relate to,” she said. “Then, I remembered when my youngest son put a big ‘Yo’ in front of all of his friends’ names. And then I found he had put ‘Yoma’ on my phone. It was there the whole time. I was truly meant to have that name!” If my friends are thinking out of the box, you can be sure that celebrities do, too, including Goldie Hawn (“Gogo”), Naomi Judd (“Mawmaw”), Suzanne Somers (“Zannie”), Blythe Danner (“Lalo”), Kris Jenner (“Lovey”) and Susan Sarandon (“Honey”). Trendy names run the gamut: “Coco,” “Cici,” “Fancy,” “Babo,” “Bamba,” “Birdie,” “Gaga,” “Geema,” “Grandy,” “Memom,” “Foxy,” and so on. And there are some names that come from the mouths of babes. Yes, baby talk. Funny, but many of them actually stick. My friend Laurie found her first grandchild saying “Yahyah.” Now she is “Yahyah” to all four. Eileen wanted “Gramsy,” but her grandson named her “Mimi.”

I’ve heard little ones calling out “Dede” and “Roro,” and for one grandfather, “Bumpa,” when the baby couldn’t say “Grandpa.” Then of course there are the religious and ethnic names. Want an Italian flair? Try “Nonna.” For Hebrew, it’s “Savta,” and German, “Oma.” Sometimes choosing a name can cause conflict. Take my friend’s husband. When his grandson was born, the only name he wanted to be called was “Zayde.” But that name was already in use by his daughterin-law’s parents. After negotiation and tensions, his son realized how important it was to his father, and the family agreed both could have that name. Crisis averted. Some grandfathers have gone rogue, demanding to be called “Maestro” due to their musical career, “Captain” (or other rank) for ex-military, or even “GrandDude” for no reason at all. As for my family, my son-in-law’s father is going with “Zazu,” the quirky bird and trusted advisor in Disney’s The Lion King. Because his two sons already call him that, he even has a hat with the name on it. I have to admit, though, “Zazu” has me worried. What if his wife comes up with a more clever name than I do? What if we both want the same one? Should I declare a name now? (With two sets of grandparents, you have to lay claim early.) If I don’t move fast, maybe the baby will choose a name for me. I’ve heard that one baby’s first word for grandma was “Dodo.” Even worse: the name stuck. Alice Shapin writes about boomer lifestyle, travel, golf and beauty for Washingtonian, Baltimore magazine, The Washington Post, Washington Golf, DCRefined and other publications.

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Leisure & Travel

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — M AY 2 0 1 9

Car rental gotchas and how to avoid them Renting a car, like buying most travel services, exposes you to a few gotchas that can make your experience more expensive, less pleasant or both. But you can also avoid most of them, most of the time, by vetting your rental company and reading the fine print before you put down your credit card.

so you don’t need extra. But if it doesn’t, then you have to pay. — Personal Accident coverage is often bundled with personal property, and it usually duplicates coverage you already have. If you need it, you need it all the time, not just when renting a car.

Limitations Insurance catches

Sometimes, when you’re returning a car at a departure airport, finding a convenient gas station can be a problem. But if you don’t return it full, you can expect a refueling gouge. When you refuel, get a receipt. Some rental companies charge a flat rate for short-term rentals where you drive only a few miles — a rate that’s substantially more than what you’d pay for the gas you used. But the biggest gotcha you face is going off-contract. Most contracts say you can’t drive on unpaved roads, let anyone drive who hasn’t signed on — and paid — as an extra driver, drive recklessly, or drive outside a contractually limited region. (Some rentals limit where you can drive. Smaller companies, in particular, may limit you to a single state or group of states.) In many cases, the rental company will never know if you go off-contract. But if you do — and the rental company finds out —

Most rentals in the United Insurance has always been States come with unlimited TRAVEL TIPS the main minefield of renting mileage, but you occasionally By Ed Perkins a car. The rental agent will try run into a rental with a maxito get you to buy some insurance you don’t mum daily mileage. That may or may not need at all and some you can buy else- curtail your trip, but if you plan on piling where at a lower price. on the miles, make sure they’re unlimited. — Collision insurance covers damage The best rental contracts start you with to, or loss of, the car you rent. Obviously, a full tank of gas, and if you return the car when you are using someone else’s full, you do not face a refueling charge. $30,000 asset, you need to insure yourself in case it is damaged when in your control. The rental company will try to sell you a waiver that eliminates your risk but roughly doubles the daily cost of the rental. But your own insurance may cover you in a rented car, your credit card may cover what your regular insurance doesn’t — most travel-oriented cards do — or you can buy separate coverage from a thirdparty source for about one-third of what ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY the rental company asks. The Greens at Hammonds Lane: 410-636-1141 — Liability insurance covers you for Park View at Furnace Branch: 410-761-4150 any damage you may do to other people or Park View at Severna Park: 410-544-3411 property. Clearly, you should never get behind the wheel of any car without adequate BALTIMORE CITY liability insurance, but your risk is no highEdnor Apartments I: 410-243-0180 er in a rental car than in your own car. You need liability coverage whenever you drive Ednor Apartments II: 410-243-4301 any car, rental or otherwise. The Greens at Irvington Mews: 410-644-4487 Your own automobile, homeowner, umPark Heights Place: 410-578-3445 brella or other policy probably covers you,

you’re in big trouble: Your insurance may be void, and your rental cost may revert to a high daily rate plus a stiff per-mile charge. And rental companies know more than you think: Most rental cars have GPS, and even if you don’t use or pay for it, the rental company can track the vehicle through it.

What to do Avoiding the gotchas is easy: Get the insurance you need through your own regular coverage, credit card or third-party policy; don’t rent on a contract that limits where you can drive; refuel before you return; avoid off-contract driving; and if you want someone else to share the driving, find a rental with no extra-driver charge. Send e-mail to Ed Perkins at eperkins@ mind.net. Also, check out Ed’s new rail travel website at rail-guru.com. © 2019 Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

We Turn Addresses

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into homes

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BALTIMORE COUNTY (CONT.) Park View at Randallstown: 410-655-5673 Park View at Rosedale: 410-866-1886 Park View at Taylor: 410-663-0363 Park View at Towson: 410-828-7185 Park View at Woodlawn: 410-281-1120

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

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

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 Park View at Fullerton: 410-663-0665 Park View at Miramar Landing: 410-391-8375

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

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Call the community nearest you to inquire about eligibility requirements and to arrange a personal tour. www.rhomecommunities.com MOST COMMUNITIES ARE PET-FRIENDLY

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M AY 2 0 1 9 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Style Arts &

Four guidebooks can make nearby hikes easier and more fun. See story on page 48.

Strangers in the night at a grand hotel an intimate experience. The center aisle is a wonderful touch in the scenic design by Paul Tate DePoo III, putting actors and ensemble members in close proximity to the audience. The decorative stairs and railings are impressively glitzy.

Superb choreography, music While the performers and the orchestra have excellent volume and sound quality, there are problems during the sequences where conversations and vocals overlap. This creative device can create dramatic effect, such as ratcheting up the tension when the businessman is confronted by the company’s board members. However, it eventually becomes too distracting, making it hard to understand the lyrics at times. Otherwise, the musical numbers are excellently executed, with superb choreography by Kelly Crandall D’Ambrose. Telephone operators connecting incoming calls to the switchboard gesture perfectly, for instance. The idea of class and position resonates powerfully throughout the show, particularly when the scullery workers perform “Some Have, Some Have Not/As It Should

PHOTO BY C. STANLEY PHOTOGRAPHY

By Patricia Cuadro Audiences travel back in time to ritzy 1928 Berlin in Grand Hotel, playing at the Signature Theatre in Arlington, Va., through May 19. With a book by Luther Davis and music and lyrics by Robert Wright and George Forrest, the show was a hit on Broadway in 1989. However, this local production, under the direction of Eric Schaeffer, leaves the audience somewhat unsatisfied. The musical follows an array of unusual guests at a popular hotel, including a doctor injured in WWI (Lawrence Redmond) and a businessman (Kevin McAllister) chasing a failing deal. There’s an oft-retiring ballerina (Natascia Diaz) who catches the eye of a charming Baron (Nkrumah Gatling) being harassed by a gangster (Gregory Maheu) intent on collecting debts. The Baron also flirts with a secretary (Nicki Elledge) dreaming of a Hollywood career. Then there’s a dying bookkeeper (Bobby Smith), just trying to enjoy his last days at the hotel. The Signature Theatre, celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, lends itself well to

A Baron and a secretary, played by Nkrumah Gatling and Nicki Elledge, are among the guests whose lives intertwine in Grand Hotel, a musical running through May 19 at Arlington’s Signature Theatre. Some of the upbeat numbers allude to the social injustice of 1920s Berlin.

Be.” The clanging noises as they dance and bang their crates against the floor represents the physicality of their work and their discontent with inequality. The relationship between the Baron and

the ballerina is a major plot point in Grand Hotel but is far from the most compelling. Despite fine vocals, Gatling does not demonSee GRAND HOTEL, page 47

MA AY 2 2 - JULY 2 8

‘Great Performances in the Neighborhood’ Rockville Little Theatre presents

The Victorian Lyric Opera Company presents

Sherlock’s Veiled Secret

Princess Ida

6 Performances | May 3-12 Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. Tickets: $22 Adults; $20 Seniors (62+) and Students

Theatre F. Scott Fitzgerald

6 Performances | June 7-16 Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. Tickets: $28 adults; $24 seniors; $20 students. All tickets are $14 on June 7.

410-730-8311

TobysDinnerTheatre.co m Due to the nature of theatrical bookings, all shows and dates are subject to change.

Resident Company season subscriptions available! Call Box Office for more information. Tickets Online: www.rockvillemd.gov/theatre Box Office: 240-314-8690

AT RO C K VI L L E CI VI C CE NTE R PA R K

Rockville Civic Center Park • 603 Edmonston Drive, Rockville, MD

A UGUS S T 1 - SEPTEMBER BER 8

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Arts & Style

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — M AY 2 0 1 9

Tosca To gain the world, would you sell your soul?

May 11–25 | Opera House Music by Giacomo Puccini Libretto by Luigi Illica and Giuseppe Giacosa Sung in Italian with projected English titles. Casting available at Kennedy-Center.org/wno

Kennedy-Center.org

Groups call (202) 416-8400

For all other ticket-related customer service inquiries, call the Advance Sales !"#$%&'#()#*+,+-#./0123.,

WNO acknowledges the longstanding generosity of Life Chairman Mrs. Eugene B. Casey.

WNO’s Presenting Sponsor

(202) 467-4600

Major support for WNO is provided by Jacqueline Badger Mars. David M. Rubenstein is the Presenting Underwriter of WNO.

Generous support for WNO Italian Opera is provided by Daniel and Gayle D’Aniello.

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From page 1 During an eight-year career in the U.S. Navy, Greene was stationed in San Francisco when he again spotted a tai chi practitioner in a park, moving slowly through a series of poses. Intrigued, he began studying the exercise and art form. Today he teaches 10 tai chi classes per week, mostly to older adults, including those at the Riderwood retirement community in Silver Spring, Md. “Everyone wants to learn tai chi, especially seniors,” Greene said. In his classes, students move together in slow-motion, synchronized poses known as forms. He calls it a bonding experience. “They’re enjoying the flow of each other. When that happens, oh my goodness, it’s a good feeling.”

teach tai chi.” After 21 years at the YMCA, Greene retired and started his own business in Brentwood, Ra Studio, as a space to create art and teach classes. Several local agencies have commissioned his work over the years, including Montgomery County Arts and Humanities Council, the D.C. Commission on the Arts, and the Maryland State Art Council. Greene also founded a group called the Takoma Park Artists’ Guild, which hosts weekly exhibits in that city. Greene plans to start teaching art classes, including some targeted to older adults, later this year. He said he enjoys teaching — and learning from — those older than he. One of his tai chi students is 104 years old. “I teach seniors all the time, and I’m just awed by their history and their skills,” he said.

A teambuilder then and now Greene graduated from the University of Maryland, majoring in sociology and minoring in studio art. For most of his career, he worked as a youth counselor and outdoor adventure specialist at the YMCA of Metropolitan Washington. Working with disadvantaged kids, he organized team-building experiences “to bond together” through rock climbing, caving, river rafting, and group games “where everybody has to win together,” he said. “I use the same teambuilding skills to

The power of color Through Greene’s tai chi practice and his art, he hopes to unite people. In the Navy, Greene worked as an equal opportunity specialist, hosting workshops on race. “Some of the things that came up [in those workshops] was that the term ‘white’ or the term ‘black’ really wasn’t about the real shade of our skin. We’re all the same color, just different shades.” Greene explored this multicultural theme in his art, and he has been working for three

PHOTO BY MAGGIE LEWIS

Artist

M AY 2 0 1 9 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Second graders at St. John’s Episcopal School in Olney, Md., welcomed artist Normon Greene to their classroom in March to show him their colorful family portraits and pepper him with questions about art.

years on the series that will be exhibited at the Sandy Spring Museum on May 2. He named it “Colored Folks: We Come in Every Shade” because he “wanted to do more to get people to talk about [skin color] in a non-negative way,” he said. “The term ‘colored folks’ doesn’t mean just black people; it means white people, brown people — it includes all of us because that’s who we are.” Witnessing the enthusiasm and openness of the St. John’s Episcopal School students gave him hope, Greene said. “The conversation [about race] has been coming up more, and it comes up in such a

positive way — I think we’re all learning from it. I’m really happy that young people are noticing it. That’s our future.” Greene’s exhibit, “Colored Folks: We Come in Every Shade,” and St. John’s Episcopal School exhibit, “Our Life in Art,” will be on display at the Sandy Spring Museum, located at 17901 Bentley Rd, Sandy Spring, MD, through July 28. The museum is open Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Fridays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free. For more information, visit sandyspringmuseum.org or call (301) 774-0022.

TICKETS ON SALE NOW! SAMMY HAGAR’S FULL CIRCLE JAM TOUR NIGHT RANGER S.o.S MAY 31

ROCK OF AGES TENTH ANNIVERSARY TOUR JUN 18 + 19 Photo: Gene Schiavone

JOHNNY MATHIS

DIANA ROSS

THE VOICE OF ROMANCE TOUR

JUN 27

JUN 15

AMERICAN BALLET THEATRE SWAN LAKE JUL 11–13

CLASSIC ALBUMS LIVE PERFORMS:

PINK FLOYD’S THE WALL 40TH ANNIVERSARY JUN 22

REBA McENTIRE JUL 28

LYLE LOVETT & HIS LARGE BAND WITH SPECIAL GUEST MAVIS STAPLES AUG 1

ROSSINI'S THE BARBER OF SEVILLE WOLF TRAP OPERA LIDIYA YANKOVSKAYA, CONDUCTOR

AUG 9

TONY BENNETT

STING

AUG 17

AUG 26–28

SHANGHAI SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA LONG YU, CONDUCTOR AUG 14

THE BEACH BOYS AUG 25

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Arts & Style

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — M AY 2 0 1 9

Club helps students prepare for prom By Margaret Foster ‘Tis the season for corsages, tuxedos and taffeta dresses. But not every student in Washington, D.C. can afford all the trimmings to attend their high school prom. That’s where the women of the D.C. Seniors Cameo Club come in. This spring, former Ms. Senior D.C. Pageant participants (who make up the Cameo Club) have fanned out all over the metro area, asking local boutiques to donate new dresses to low-income students at D.C. public schools. They’ve gathered more than 100 gowns

so far that will be distributed for free to local high schoolers. At two events in early May, local students will be invited to a church hall to try on and take home whatever they wish. Also, accessories, stockings and corsages donated by Lee’s Flower and Card Shop on U St. NW will be made available to the students. “Without these donated gowns, there are so many young ladies that will not be able to attend their prom,” said Rebecca Washington, chair of the club’s publicity committee. This is the second year the club has offered free dresses. In 2017, they gave away

about 50 of them. The D.C. Seniors Cameo Club consists of 35 women who have been contestants in the Ms. Senior D.C. Pageant, an annual event for District women 60 and older. In addition to their charitable work, Club members entertain at nursing homes, veterans’ and children’s hospitals and at other community and charitable organizations, according to its website. Washington, 68, who owned eight beauty salons in the District, got involved in the prom giveaway during her volunteer work with the nonprofit Family Matters of

Greater Washington. As one of 10 children, she recalls shopping for her prom dress at Garfinckel’s department store. Her aunts chipped in to buy the perfect blue dress. Now she is helping the younger generation. “It’s a blessing to see these young ladies come in and their parents crying,” Washington said. “The young ladies are so excited. They try on these beautiful dresses and they are so happy.” This year’s prom giveaway events are scheduled for May 4 and May 11. For more information, call (202) 413-2070 or (202) 723-1077.

Grand Hotel

Gatling is convincing in his strong though unlikely friendship with the ailing accountant. There’s a lightness and unforced sincerity in both of these relationships which linger in one’s mind long after final bows. The most memorable characters in Grand Hotel are the bookkeeper, the secretary and two singers known as the “Jimmys” (Ian Anthony Coleman and Solomon Parker III). For much of the musical, the latter provide comic relief, and their entertaining zingers hold a running commen-

tary about class that resonates today. Coleman and Parker also perform dynamic dance moves, particularly as they lead their own number, “The Grand Charleston.” With a strong presence on stage, Elledge stands out as a sympathetic Hollywood-aspiring secretary. She is adept in shifting from fun-loving and determined to vulnerable and afraid. That range of emotions is notable in her vocals during her solo, “Girl in the Mirror.” However, the best aspects of her character come through in Elledge’s rapport with Smith — demonstrated both in their lines and their improved dancing as scenes unfold. Smith is wonderful when his hands

tremble as the ailing bookkeeper. His dancing range is perfectly suited to his awkward yet endearing character in “Who Couldn’t Dance with You?” and “We’ll Take a Glass Together.” While there are pluses in this production, the minuses leave a theatergoer wanting more by curtain call. Given the more mature themes of the plot, as well as brief depictions of drug use and smoking, Grand Hotel isn’t appropriate for children. For more information or to buy tickets, visit signature.org or call (703) 820-9771. Performances continue through May 19 at the Signature Theatre, 4200 Campbell Avenue, Arlington, Va.

From page 44 strate enough passion in “Love Can’t Happen” when he is onstage with Diaz. He gives a more earnest effort in his solo “Roses at the Station,” but it’s far too late.

Well-portrayed relationships In contrast, the flirtations between Gatling and Elledge, the Baron and secretary, convey more chemistry. Similarly,

BEACON BITS

May 18

FREE WRITING WORKSHOPS Writing experts will host free workshops at the Gaithersburg

Book Festival on May 18. Learn how to adhere to a writing routine, use an Edward Hopper painting as inspiration for a short story, build suspense or hone storytelling skills and get published. The Book Festival is held on the grounds of City Hall, 31 S. Summit Ave., Gaithersburg, Md. between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.

THE UNITED STATES AIR FORCE BAND WA S H I N G T O N , D . C . !"!#$"%&!#%'()!*$"+,% !--.#+$/%.#+% !#+0(1!/

Accessible shuttle will be available from Shady Grove Metro and Lakeforest Mall. For the schedule of free 55-minute workshops, call (301) 258-6310 or visit www.gaithersburgbookfestival.org.

Heritage to Horizons Wednesday, May 15 at 7:30 p.m. featuring The United States Air Force Band and Honor Guard Drill Team

It’s never too late to make music at the PEABODY PREPARATORY. Our Adult and Continuing Education program offers private music lessons and classes for lifelong learners at all experience levels. Summer offerings include Piano at Peabody and Flamenco and Spanish Dance. REGISTER NOW! SUMMER SESSION BEGINS JUNE 17.

peabody.jhu.edu/ace • 667-208-6640

FREE! No tickets needed. Outdoor concerts subject to weather cancellation. For more info, please visit our website.

Air Force Memorial 1 Air Force Memorial Drive, Arlington, VA

www.usafband.af.mil

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M AY 2 0 1 9 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Highlighting outdoor destinations nearby As the mild weather beckons, thoughts joyable and stress-free. Top Trails: Shenandoah National turn to the great outdoors. Getting advice on Park: 50 Must-Do Hikes for where to venture out, and inforEveryone, by Johnny Molmation about the destinations loy, 332 pages, Wilderyou’re considering, can make ness Press paperback, secthe planning easier and your ond edition, 2018 trip more pleasurable. This extensive and informaHere are some good options. tive guide to trails in ShenanWaterfalls of Virginia & doah National Park, in VirWest Virginia: 174 Falls in ginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, the Old Dominion and the is a must-have for anyone conMountain State, by Randall sidering venturing there. The Sanger, 272 pages, AdvenTop Trails series provides vital ture Publications paper- THE information using maps, symback, second edition, 2018 BIBILOPHILE By Dinah Rokach bols, graphs and photographs West Virginia outdoorsman to describe choices for novice Randall Sanger has composed an enchanting guidebook that ranks and de- and experienced nature-seekers. Although Skyline Drive is Shenandoah’s scribes the most scenic waterfalls in Virginia most famous feature, there is much more and West Virginia. Height of the waterfall, directions, the to explore. Thanks to this guide, you’ll feel nearest town, walking distance from park- confident venturing to more private and ing, hiking difficulty, trail quality, websites picturesque parts in the backcountry. A map of the park and a trail-features and nearby sites — all are included in meticulously written tips for travelers. Ad- table at the beginning of the book orient mission is free to all West Virginia water- readers. Tips on hiking, information on falls. Those that charge admission in Vir- lodgings and camping, as well as averagetemperature range by month are included. ginia are duly noted. Trails are rated by difficulty, and advice as The vivid color photographs accompanying the text are sure to lure you from the to the best — and worst — seasons to hike comforts of home to experience the sights each trail is thoughtfully included. An appenand sounds of these natural wonders. Wa- dix provides information on local resources, terfalls also includes suggestions by the phone numbers and websites. Black-andauthor, a professional photographer, for white photographs accompany the text. The author of more than 60 books about taking the best shots. The table of contents and the back-of- the outdoors, Johnny Molloy puts his exthe-guide checklist make finding your des- perience at the reader’s disposal in an tination easier, as do the overview state easy-to-follow format. “Don’t get lost” trail maps. Short descriptions superimposed on milestones and GPS coordinates are helpthe photographs summarize the most en- fully provided. Lists, easily accessible in the page mardearing features, helping readers sort gins, identify features of note, specifics on through the myriad choices. This guide makes planning your trip en- items of geographical and horticultural in-

terest, as well as autumn colors and vistas. Also noted are the presence of facilities, length of hike, distance from parking, difficulty, elevation, best time of day to use and whether the trail is child-friendly. 60 Hikes Within 60 Miles: Washington, D.C., Including Suburban and Outlying Areas of Maryland and Virginia, by Renee Sklarew and Rachel Cooper, map specialist Brian Cooper, prior edition by Paul Elliott, 256 pages, Menasha Ridge Press paperback, third edition, 2017 The authors of this handy guide are avid hikers and local residents with a robust familiarity of nearby, easily accessible destinations. Hikes are rated by difficulty and duration, accompanied by maps and color photographs. Their descriptions let you select your itinerary leisurely before you embark on a day hike. 60 Hikes is well organized. You’ll know what to expect en route and be able to decide before leaving which hikes are most interesting to you. Beginning with an overview, two tables provide at-a-glance information regarding overlooks, historic sites, elevation, significant flora and fauna, accessibility to mass transit, bikeability, length, and whether the hikes are child-friendly or handicapped accessible. The 60 hikes are categorized into five regional groups. They are each accompanied by a short summary of relevant information followed by a detailed description, map, contact information, directions and nearby activities. Be sure to check the contact information provided for each hike, especially the more esoteric ones. For example, Hike #40, a privately owned botanical preserve, was permanently closed as of June 2018.

Appendices provide the names and contact information of hiking clubs should you prefer to join others on your outing. The book also includes a comprehensive list of local stores that specialize in hiking supplies and sporting goods, including discount outlets. Hike Maryland: A Guide to the Scenic Trails of the Free State, by Bryan MacKay, photographs by Debi and Bryan MacKay, maps by Bill Nelson, 240 pages, 12-page insert of color photographs, Johns Hopkins University Press paperback, 2018 This informative and useful guide to trails in Mar yland — and one, Rock Creek Park, in the District of Columbia — will have you out and about, secure in the knowledge of what to expect on your trek. Bryan MacKay, a retired senior lecturer in the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Baltimore, has selected 50 hikes of note that highlight the best of the natural wonders of Maryland. MacKay takes the reader in hand with detailed descriptions of the hikes, devoting a chapter to each. You’ll find trail maps as well as basic information such as GPS location, website, trail distance and difficulty, directions, and whether the trail is dog-friendly. The preface makes note of those trails that are wheelchair and stroller accessible. Admission fees are mentioned in the text, but check the website for current information. Essays accompanying each hike discuss a relevant environmental topic or describe a species you may encounter. Not only will you exercise your body if you go, but reading MacKay’s book will expand your mind.

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Arts & Style

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — M AY 2 0 1 9

Unexpected Italy (II): Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini

May/June Events

Gianandrea Noseda conducts a program featuring works by Respighi, Casella, and perhaps Rachmaninoﬀ’s best-known work, Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, featuring pianist Francesco Piemontesi.

May 30 & June 1 | Concert Hall

Dvořák’s “New World” Symphony Gianandrea Noseda presents a program of folk-inspired pieces including Dvořák’s Ninth Symphony: “From the New World,” Copland’s cowboy ballet Billy the Kid, and Berio’s Folk Songs, with mezzo-soprano Anita Rachvelishvili.

June 6, 8 & 9 | Concert Hall June 9: 3 p.m. matinee

Mozart Forever I In the ﬁrst concert of our three-part salute to Mozart, Nathalie Stutzmann conducts the delightful overture to The Marriage of Figaro and “Haﬀner” Symphony. Concertmaster Nurit Bar-Josef and NSO Principal Viola Daniel Foster showcase virtuosity playing the Sinfonia Concertante for Violin and Viola, and Principal Bassoon Sue Heineman shines in the Bassoon Concerto.

June 14 & 15 | Concert Hall June 14: Coﬀe Concert at 11:30 a.m.

Mozart Forever II Nathalie Stutzmann conducts a concert that opens with the dramatic Overture to Don Giovanni. The program also contains Mozart’s Symphonies No. 25 and 40, as well as his Horn Concerto No. 4 featuring NSO Principal Horn Abel Pereira.

June 18 & 19 | Concert Hall

NSO Pops: Vanessa Williams Grammy®- and Emmy®-nominated actress and singer Vanessa Williams joins the National Symphony Orchestra Pops for a Broadway-themed program.

May 3 & 4 | Concert Hall

Berlioz’s Symphonie fantastique

Unexpected Italy (I): Rossini & Liszt As part of the Kennedy Center’s celebration of Unexpected Italy, Gianandrea Noseda leads the NSO, the University of Maryland Concert Choir, and a stellar cast of soloists in Rossini’s popular Stabat Mater. The program also features Liszt’s Dante Symphony.

May 16 & 17 | Concert Hall

NSO Pops: Michael Bolton

Mozart Forever III Nathalie Stutzmann conducts the glorious “Jupiter” symphony and the famous Overture to The Magic Flute. The concert also features Principal Musicians Aaron Goldman and Adriana Horne in the Concerto for Flute and Harp.

June 21 & 22 | Concert Hall

NSO Pops: 50 Years Over the Rainbow: A Judy Garland Celebration

Conductor Edward Gardner leads Berlioz’s whimsical Symphonie fantastique and Wagner’s dramatic Overture to The Flying Dutchman. The program also features violinist Renaud Capuçon who brings his poise, depth of tone, and dazzling technique to Sibelius’s beautiful Violin Concerto.

The Grammy Award® winner joins the NSO for a one-night-only concert of timeless hits and a musical journey through pop, rock, soul, standards, and even classical, specially arranged for symphony orchestra.

The NSO and singers Laura Osnes, Capathia Jenkins, and Jimmie Herrod remember the immortal music and extraordinary cultural impact of Judy Garland.

May 9–11 | Concert Hall

May 21 | Concert Hall

June 28 & 29 | Concert Hall

Kennedy-Center.org

Groups call (202) 416-8400

For all other ticket-related customer service inquiries, call the Advance Sales !"#$%&'#()#*+,+-#./0123.,

David M. Rubenstein is the Presenting Underwriter of the NSO.

Unexpected Italy is presented in cooperation with the Embassy of Italy.

AARP is the Presenting Sponsor of the NSO Pops Season.

The NSO Music Director Chair is generously endowed by Vicki† and Roger Sant.

The Abramson Concert Series is made possible by the generous support of the Leonard and Elaine Silverstein Family Foundation Fund in Honor of Ronald D. Abramson (May 30 & June 1).

(202) 467-4600

International programming at the Kennedy Center is made possible through the generosity of the Kennedy Center International Committee on the Arts.

The Blue Series is sponsored by United Technologies Corporation. Mozart Forever is funded in part by the Dallas Morse Coors Foundation for the Performing Arts.

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

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Arts & Style

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — M AY 2 0 1 9

Fashion reflects personality for all ages In the fashion world, the only constant is someone feels unsure but sees him or herchange. As society and popular culture self reflected back in another’s appearance — say in identical clothing — evolve, so do our garments. that person feels pumped up, Regardless of what styles less insecure. …When adoleshave been in vogue throughcent[s] see aspects of themout history, one thing reselves mirrored in their peers, mains the same: fashion is a they get an ego boost and feel high priority in American soless vulnerable.” ciety, both for teenagers and Sometimes, however, mirolder adults. roring backfires. For example, First, let’s clarify the differI have often seen people at my ence between “fashion” and school wearing the same shirt “style.” While the two words GENERATIONS because it was displayed in a are often used synonymously, TOGETHER trendy shop window in the they are by no means the By Alexis Bentz mall. In addition, the need to same thing. mirror can put pressure on “Fashion” is a trend — often popularized by prominent celebrities teens to dress a certain way or to purchase — that can encompass clothing, hairstyles, items only sold by a specific brand or store. Simultaneously, although it may seem accessories or footwear. Meanwhile, “style” has a more personal contradictory, teens’ clothing choices are connotation; it is how individuals choose to one of their earliest steps toward indepresent themselves — how they dress, how pendence and differentiating themselves. they style their hair, etc. While their final No longer do their parents pick out clothlook may or may not be similar to what is ing for them; they can express themselves currently deemed fashionable, their style in any way they wish. As I have gotten older, I have enjoyed exis typically reflective of their unique personality. perimenting with different looks, some of which I’ve seen in catalogs, and some based Teens focus on fashion on my own sense of comfort and confiFashion is very important to teenagers, dence. I love to mix and match popular fashwho are at an age where a desire to fit in ions with my own style; for example, a fashtends to trump all else. Dressing similarly ionable jean skirt with a T-shirt with the to one’s peers can inspire a sense of ac- name of my favorite band. The elements of ceptance — you can feel confident in what my outfit combine to reflect my personality, you are wearing because you already and the ability to control that is liberating. know it is widely accepted as fashionable. Teens use social media platforms, priThis idea is referred to as “mirroring.” marily Instagram (a photo-sharing app), to In a Psychology Today article, Stephanie debut their styles, many of which are Newman explained the concept this way: “If copied by teens everywhere.

Tell them you saw it in the Beacon!

Older adults with style Older adults can be just as impacted by — and influential in — fashion as teenagers and young adults. They can be susceptible to mirroring as well (though perhaps not to the same extent as teens), and enjoy inventing their own unique looks which often reflect both modern trends as well as styles popular when they were growing up. Lately, many fashion companies are recruiting older models. The idea is that 60something models will inspire not only younger generations, but also older peers. A perfect example is 64-year-old Lyn Slater, who is better known by her Instagram username, “Accidental Icon.” Due to her blog’s success, this inspiring fashion writer and model has been hired by companies such as Uniqlo for advertising cam-

paigns. Slater proves that boomers can shape the fashion game. This subject can lend itself to intergenerational relationships. Discuss with your teenage friend the ways fashion has changed over time. What styles do you like the most? Which are your least favorite? Which decade’s trends do you believe have had the most impact on the fashion industry? You can also consider the impact of mirroring and the pressures to look a certain way. Together, you can work to create your own styles. Go shopping together and compile looks that are fun, glamorous and uniquely you. Don’t forget to take pictures! Alexis Bentz is an 11th grade student at Thomas Wootton High School in Rockville, Md. She has been writing this intergenerational column for the Beacon for five years.

ANSWERS TO CROSSWORD

FROM PAGE 52 ANSWERS TO SCRABBLE

A P R I L

L O O F A

B U O Y S

A T C L H A E S

S H A V E

A T M O S P H E R E

I P R U D H O T E I D E A

B A A U L O S I C N Y A P U S C E E L L

U N D I D

S T A K E

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

H I F D I E L A G H O S T I S A M E R Y

U R O N N E P T I F T H T D I G M O D E O L I E U L D S S A E H O T S O N I T L I A R E C R U S E A T

ANSWERS TO JUMBLE Jumbles: TAKEN TRUMP COBALT CALMLY Answer: The cattle rancher wanted to stock up, so he went to the — BULL MARKET

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M AY 2 0 1 9 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

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

24 28 33

30 36

44 47 51

48 53

59 64

25 32

Jumble answers on p. 51.

Scrabble answers on p. 51.

Stephen By StephenSherr Sherr 6

Across 1. Actress Jessica, named “Sexiest Woman in the World” for 2007 5. A Go over 21 9. Most central of the Great Lakes 14. Display disappointment 15. One on the other side 16. Bumbling 17. Library, study, or conservatory 18. West of Gotham City 19. Too much vodka, for most 20. Hindsight on one’s dessert selection at the Single Ladies’ Diner (with 39, 45, and 57 Across) 23. Accessory for a Toy Story action figure 24. Strike from the record 25. Try to reach China 28. Letters on a bike pump 30. Possible result of this puzzle’s second thoughts 33. E-Cigarette lacking 35. Letters on Miracle on Ice losing jerseys 38. “___ down and get some rest” 39. More of the dessert thoughts 42. Santa of Silicon Valley 43. Maiden name monikers 44. Its first retirement check was in 1940 for $22.54 45. Still more of dessert thoughts 47. Secure an ice skate 49. Dir. from Washington state to Washington DC 50. Weakens 53. Immunizations 57. Dessertion conclusion 60. One who routinely avoids R-rated movies 63. Most of a unicycle 64. One convicted of perjury 65. Final Monopoly investment 66. Arab nobleman 67. Wedding invitation color 68. In an ___ world... 69. Violate norms 70. Ticket stub identification Down 1. National Canine Fitness Month

2. Exfoliation sensation 3. Keeps afloat 4. Ambience 5. Biblical false god 6. Voided 7. Vampire killer 8. Technique which can make a flower appear to bloom in seconds 9. Quality of an audiophile’s audio files 10. “A piece of spaghetti or a military ___ can only be led from the front end” (Patton) 11. Gridiron official 12. Make a choice 13. To the ___ degree 21. Acronyms for universities in Oregon and Ottawa 22. The first letters of the first state 25. Raggedy Ann and Andy 26. “___ bad thing” (regretful words) 27. “I’m impressed!” 29. Like Pluto 31. Sixth word of the Gettysburg Address 32. Consistent features of Tom and Jerry’s houses 33. Rand McNally publication 34. Convert a full beard to a goatee 36. Got in touch with 37. White billiards ball 40. Siesta 41. Next after FDR 42. Marxist Guevara 46. ___ it or lose it 48. End of symbol- or social51. Like 1999 and 2017 52. Feature of the Century Schoolbook font 54. In the cooler 55. Headwear available at shopdisney.com 56. Walk confidently 57. Invention’s first step 58. Landline alternative 59. Ethereal 60. One down from upsilon 61. Good name for a fisherman 62. Denizen of the Beehive State

Answers on page 51.

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Arts & Style

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — M AY 2 0 1 9

Letters to editor From page 2

ONE BIG HAPPY By Rick Detorie

last paragraph says it all: “I look forward to reading a report in the future that — rather than treating older adults as one more ‘factor’ in society’s mistreatment of the young — praises us for staying independent as long as possible, and for taking care of ourselves, our homes and our communities.” This is such an important message for everyone. We need to be grateful to and to honor our elders for their wisdom, life experiences, and their contributions to society, while treating them with the utmost dignity and respect. This is one of my company’s guiding principles. Thanks again for bringing your message to many thousands of folks who enjoy your monthly newspaper as much as I do. Sandy Kursban Family & Nursing Care, Inc. Dear Editor: I loved the article about Stonington, Maine, in your April edition. I wanted to make sure you are aware of the wonderful work the Deer Isle-Stonington Historical Society does. The Society maintains the Salome Sellers House — such a wonderful learning experience. Salome Sellers was my great, great, great grandmother, and I’m so grateful that her home has been preserved. Thank you again for the wonderful story! Krysten Jenci Chevy Chase, Md. Dear Editor: Another great article (“Home sweet home” in April’s “From the Publisher”) on a “touchy” and important topic. You did admirable investigative reporting to tease out the factors underlying this issue — and to counter the stereotype. Like you, I disdain the perpetuation of the “Inter-generational Warfare” myth! Dr. Jay Kenney Via email

BEACON BITS

May 11+

76 TROMBONES & MORE Songs from The Music Man, George Gershwin and the 1950s will

have you humming along at the free spring concerts for the Encore Chorale, a program for singers 55 and up. Listen to the Fairfax and Reston chapter on Tuesday, May 14, at 7:30 p.m. at St. George’s United Methodist Church, 4910 Ox Rd., Fairfax, Va. Or catch another performance on Saturday, May 11, at 3:00 p.m. at Falls Church Episcopal, 115 E. Fairfax St., Falls Church, Va. For other concert times and dates, call (301) 261-5747, email info@encorecreativity.org or visit encorecreativity.org.

May 9+

FREE LIBRARY OF CONGRESS CONCERTS On May 9, gospel singer Cora Harvey Armstrong performs with her family members and band. Enjoy music from the Balkans and

Romania by the duo Eva Salina and Peter Stan on May 16, and South African acapella singers on June 13. The free concert series, “Homegrown: The Music of America,” hosted by the American Folklife Center at the Library of Congress, runs through September. Concerts are at noon in the Coolidge Auditorium in the Thomas Jefferson Building, 10 First St. S.E., Washington, D.C. No tickets are required. For more information, call (202) 707-5510, email folklife@loc.gov or visit loc.gov/concerts/folklife/

WB519

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CLASSIFIEDS The Beacon prints classified advertising under the following headings: Business & Employment Opportunities; Caregivers; Computer Services; Entertainment; For Sale; For Sale/Rent: Real Estate; Free; Health; Home/ Handyman Services; Miscellaneous; Personals; Personal Services; Vacation Opportunities; and Wanted. For submission guidelines and deadlines, see the box on page 55. 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.

Caregivers CHEVY CHASE HOME CARE — reliable certified caregivers at time of illness, infirmity, loneliness. Personal assistance, ALL AGES, 4- to 24-hour shifts, homes, hospitals, nursing homes. MD, DC, No. VA. Tel.: 202-374-1240. www.ChChHomecare.com. QUALITY ELDERLY CARE 11+ yrs exp. providing excellent care. Eg. Meal prep, run errands, appt mgmt , excellent comm, etc. YOUR LOVED ONE DESERVES IT! Contact: Monica, 301.646.2132 / monica4elderlycare@gmail.com *Excellent references upon request.* 5147542110836326 CONTACT DMV SENIOR COMPANIONS, LLC for great companion care and transportation. Excellent references available. 301-5293707. A HOME HEALTHCARE - Experienced nurses, CNA, GNA are available 24/7. Cooking, companionship, personal care, housekeeping , driving. Full/Part-time or live-in. Flat rate for live-in care. 15 years’ experience. 240-533-6599.

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

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

For Sale ORGANIC MATTRESSES! Adjustable Beds! Low Low Prices- Make offer, Experts, Warranty, Highest Quality Latex or non Latex Gots Certified, delivery, non pressure showroom. Treasure Barn Mattresses & Collectibles 16650 Georgia Ave, Olney 301-750-4164 ACCESSIBLE HONDA ELEMENT, converted with passenger-side ramp by Freedom Motors. 2011, under 12,000 miles, hand controls, excellent condition. Gray. $19,500. Maintenance records. Call 301-654-5642.

M AY 2 0 1 9 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

For Sale/Rent: Real Estate

Personal Services

Wanted

IF YOU’RE LOOKING TO TAKE THE LEAP to a retirement community, try our newly announced Real Estate Partnership: Sue Heyman, Rick Winkler, and Sudha Baxter. Rely on our combined strengths: Top Weichert Producers, plus backgrounds in Teaching, Tax, and Business. We are located at the Leisure World Plaza Weichert Office and have personal knowledge of the Community from the investor and resident perspective. We will take you on a tour of the Community, show you floor plans, discuss campus amenities & offer how best to coordinate your move. We will set up an automated search for you, preview units, and contact you to arrange a showing when there is a match. We also offer exceptional service selling your current home. Call for your free Community booklet. You can see our current listings in this issue. Office 301-681-0550, Sue 301-580-5556, Rick 301-404-3105, Sudha 202-368-8536.

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

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

NOW LEASING ONE BEDROOM HOMES to those 62+! Welcome to Matthews Memorial Terrace, located in the historic Anacostia Region. Matthews Memorial Terrace is located within walking distance from the Metro-rail station which allows you to easily get around the city. Amenities include energy star rated kitchen appliances, refrigerator, a washer and dryer in every home and more! Community features include covered parking, an elevator, a laundry facility, and a children’s play area. (1 bedroom rents starting at $1269/month — Resident pays for just electricity). Contact us for income restrictions and other pre-qualifications. www.matthewsmemorialterrace.com | matthews@tcbinc.org | (202) 552-2570 | TTY: 711. Equal Housing Opportunity and ADA. BASEMENT FOR RENT IN SILVER SPRING, MD — One bedroom with a full bath, also includes small kitchen and personal dinning area. All areas described are private. It also has a private entrance door. Includes parking for one car. Non-Smoking and No Pets. Adult Male or Female Only. If interested call (301) 622-2461. LEISURE WORLD® - $185,000. 1 BR + Den 1-1/2 BA Arbor in “Pines.” Recent paint and carpet, 803 sq. ft., Stan Moffson, Weichert Realtors, 301-301-254-5825. LEISURE WORLD® - $177,000. 2 BR 2 FB “F” in the GREENS. Move in ready. New paint and carpet, enclosed balcony, 1120 sq ft., Stan Moffson, Weichert, Realtors, 301-254-5825. LEISURE WORLD® - $179,900. 2 BR 2 FB “F” in the GREENS. New paint and carpet, Sunny enclosed balcony. 1120 sq ft., Stan Mofffson, Weichert, Realtors, 301-254-5825. LEISURE WORLD® - $227,000. 2 BR 2 FB “C” in Turnberry. Updated table space kitchen, close to elevator, golf course view. 1093 sq ft, Stan Moffson, Weichert, Realtors, 301-254-5825. LEISURE WORLD® - $185,000. 2 BR, 2 FB + GARAGE, “GG” in “GREENS”, Table space kitchen, updated bath with step-in shower. Enclosed Sunroom. 1210 Sq Ft., Stan Moffson, Weichert Realtors, 301-254.5825.

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Personals VERY ATTRACTIVE 75-YEAR OLD widow ISO male companion. ABOUT ME: Favorite Books: Beauty Fades, but Dumb Lasts Forever, How to be Your Own Best Friend, Travels with Charlie and Unhinged. Favorite Music: Celine Dion’s Beauty and the Beast and What are you Doing the Rest of your Life? Favorite Movies: Bucket List, Greenbook, Book Club and Beauty and the Beast. Theater: All musicals, ballet and dance. ABOUT YOU: Kind, affectionate, selfaware, financially secure, outgoing, good sense of humor, good conversation and listening skills. I like blue and white collar guys. A Favorite Sunday Afternoon: Brunch, a movie, flea markets and yard sales perhaps, cocktails and light supper at my house. Bobbie (301)439-0833 Leave message.

TV/Cable DIRECTV. CALL AND SWITCH NOW — Get NFL Sunday Ticket for FREE! Every Game. Every Sunday. CHOICE- All-Included Package. Over 185 Channels. $60/month (for 12 Months.) CALL 1- 888-572-4953. DISH Network. 190+ CHANNELS. FREE Install. FREE Hopper HD-DVR. $49.99/month (24 months) Add High Speed Internet - $14.95 (where avail.) CALL Today & SAVE 25%! 1-844560-5837. SPECTRUM TRIPLE PLAY! TV, Internet & Voice for $29.99 ea. 60 MB per second speed. No contract or commitment. More Channels. Faster Internet. Unlimited Voice. Call 1-888-366-7573.

Wanted BUYING VINYL RECORDS from 1950 through 1985. Jazz, Rock-n-Roll, Soul, Rhythm & Blues, Reggae and Disco. 33 1/3 LPs, 45s or 78s, Larger collections of at least 100 items wanted. Please call John, 301-596-6201. SEEKING FULL/SEALED BOTTLES of Vintage Bourbon and Rye. Do you have full/sealed vintage bottles of bourbon or rye collecting dust in your cabinet. Do any of your bottles have an old red or green tax strip? Call Alex, 443-223-7669. BUYING MILITARY MEMORABILIA WW2, WW1, Civil War uniforms, weapons, photos and items associated with US, German, Japanese or items of other Military History. DAVE, 240-4640958. BUYING ESTATES jewelry, watches, old coins, silver, gold, art, old toys, trains, comic books, fountain pens, baseball cards, memorabilia, golf clubs, military, firearms, knives, swords, antique photos, books, autographs, etc. Please call Tom 240-476-3441. COLLECTOR BUYING MILITARY ITEMS: Helmets, weapons, knives, swords, web gear, uniforms, etc. from all wars & countries. Also Lionel Trains, & slots/coin operated machines. Will pay top prices. Discreet consultations. Call Fred, 301-910-0783.

LADY WHO LIKES CHINA and other pretty things would like to buy yours. Favorites include Herend, Meissen, Royal Copenhagen, Shelley and Villeroy & Boch. Some Lenox and Johnson Brothers. I love English bone china cups and saucers. Baccarat and Lalique too. Paintings and pottery. I’ve collected antique Christmas and Halloween for thirty years and am always looking to add to my collection. Sterling and jewelry. MD license no. 2753. Call, 301-785-1129. WANTED: OLDER VIOLINS, GUITARS, BANJOS, MANDOLINS, UKULELES, ETC. Musician/collector will pay cash for older string instruments. Jack (301) 279-2158. CASH FOR JEWELRY: Buying jewelry, diamonds, gold, platinum, silver, watches, coins, flatware, etc. Ask for Tom. Call anytime, 301654-8678 (Reg. 883). TOP PRICES PAID for fine antiques, artwork and high quality decorative items including decorated crocks and jugs, rare antique clocks, music boxes,unusual lamps, slot machines and great old toys and dolls to name a few. I am 66 years old with over 40 years in the antique business, well educated and financially capable . Why pay expensive auction house , estate sale, or consignment store commissions when you can get a fair upfront price for your pieces immediately? If you have something unusual and interesting, rare and valuable and are prepared to sell it I would like to speak with you. Please call Jake Lenihan 301 279 8834 . No calls after 7 pm please. Thank you. BUYING VINYL RECORDS from 1950 through 1985. Jazz, Rock-n-Roll, Soul, Rhythm & Blues, Reggae and Disco. 33 1/3 LPs, 45s or 78s, Larger collections of at least 100 items wanted. Please call John, 301-596-6201. $$$ CASH $$$ FOR MILITARY USMC ARMY USAF USN ITEMS - Buying Military Uniforms, Patches, Medals, Insignia, Flight Jackets, Weapons etc. from the Civil War through Vietnam. Especially seeking U.S. Army Air Corps, USMC, Airborne and German/Japanese/Italian items from WWII. Call or Text Dan at 202-8413062 or email MILITBUFF@AOL.COM. ESTATE LIQUIDATION/ANTIQUES & COLLECTIBLES: One call solves it all when you hire us to handle your estate liquidation, down-sizing and/or home cleanout. We sell your treasures, take care of charitable donations and provide junk removal. We also purchase partial estate contents/collections. Always buying antiques, jewelry, fine art, vintage toys, collectibles, advertising, sports memorabilia, military items, rare books, Mid Century Modern furniture, vinyl records collections and more. Based in Silver Spring, we serve Montgomery County, Howard County, Baltimore County, Washington D.C., NOVA and beyond. No home, barn or warehouse is too packed for us! Friendly, conscientious staff. Call Chris on cell (202) 731-9447. www.OrionsAttic.com. PAYING CASH merchandise pre 1980. Old toys, silver, records, books, photographs, smoking pipes and lighters, fountain pens. If you have stuff to sell cal Carl 312-316-7553. Sorry no furniture or glassware. Located Silver Spring MD. CASH FOR RECORDS AND CDS. WE HAUL IT ALL! Don’t waste time with cherry pickers! Best price guaranteed. Free appraisals. All types of records & CDs. Also buying turntables and stereos. Will make house calls. Call or text Steve at 301-646-5403. CASH FOR ESTATES; moving, etc. I buy a wide range of items. Buy out/clean up. TheAtticLLC.com Gary Roman 301-520-0755.

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — M AY 2 0 1 9

Say you saw it in the Beacon

Wanted

I BUY MILITARY ANTIQUES. Trusted for over 30 years in MD, DC and VA. I have a Masters Degree in History and specialize in military memorabilia. I buy medals, documents, uniforms, insignia, historic firearms, & books from the Civil War, WWI, WWII, Korea and Vietnam - single items or collections. I offer fair prices. View my biography and testimonials from veterans and their families on my website. Call me first or for a second opinion. Tim Frank 703-447-7243 www.midatlanticmilitaryantiques.com

STAMP COLLECTIONS Purchased/Appraised; interested in valuable. U.S./ Worldwide Collections; APS member; Contact Alex: 301-309-3622; E-Mail: ARogolsky@gmail.com

Thanks for reading the Beacon!

BEACON BITS

May 22+

FREE FOREIGN FILMS For filmgoers who don’t shy away from subtitles, the McLean

Community Center offers free movies in the Alden Theatre, located at 1234 Ingleside Ave, McLean, Va. Stop by on Wednesday, May 22, at 1 p.m. and stay for a backstage discussion after the film. For more information, including upcoming movies, call (703) 790-9223 or visit mcleancenter.org.

June 13

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 amount for you. Note: Maryland contractors must provide a valid MHIC number. • Each real estate listing qualifies as one ad. • All ads are subject to publisher’s discretion. Payment will be refunded if unacceptable for any reason.

To place your classified ad, visit www.thebeaconnewspapers.com/classifieds BEACON BITS

SECRETS OF THE NATIONAL GALLERY On Thursday, June 13, join Arthur Wheelock, the National Gallery of Art’s former curator of Dutch and Flemish painting, as he looks

back on his career launching gallery exhibitions from 1973. The lecture and dinner are part of a series of salons hosted by the Dupont Circle Village with prominent Washingtonians in a private home. Tickets are $75 each; $50 is tax-deductible. For more information, call (202) 436-5252; or visit dupontcirclevillage.net.

May 9+

WWII LANDING BOAT

To mark the 75th anniversary of D-Day, the National Inventors Hall of Fame will display a landing boat used on June 6, 1944, known as the Higgins Boat. Fewer than 20 of the WWII vessels survive. The craft’s inventor, Andrew Higgins, will be posthumously inducted into the museum’s hall of fame in May. The fully restored vessel will be displayed until July 27 in Dulany Gardens outside the National Inventors Hall of Fame, 600 Dulany St, Alexandria, Va., on the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office Campus. For more information, call (571) 272-0095 or visit invent.org.

ADVERTISERS IN THIS ISSUE Clinical Studies Calorie Restriction Study..............23 Hearing Research Study................23 Speech Comprehension Study ......22

Computer/ Technology Help Beacon Silver Pages......................20 TechMedic4U..................................5 TheBeaconNewspapers.com.........50

DOEE............................................41 Montgomery County Aging and Disability Services ...................6, 7 Montgomery County Public Library ..............................7 Montgomery County SHIP ...........34

Home Health Care/Companion Services

Friedman, Stephen, DDS ..............12 Oh, Judy, DDS ..............................10

Best Senior Care . . . . . . . . . . . . .33 Bright Hope Home Care . . . . . . .24 JSSA Hospice & Homecare . . . . . .9 Options for Senior America ..........51 SmithLife Homecare.....................16

Events

Housing

Beacon 50+Expo...........................40 Brooke Grove ............................8, 56 GROWS ........................................41 Montgomery County Caregivers ..................................26 To Life Health & Wellness Expo........................42

Alfredhouse...................................35 Armed Forces Retirement Home.......................27 Ashby Ponds .................................14 Brooke Grove Retirement Village ....................................8, 56 Charles E. Smith Life Communities ......................21 Chesterbrook Residences..............13 Chevy Chase House ......................13 Churchill Senior Living ................26 Culpepper Garden .........................27 Falcons Landing ...........................11 Five Star Premier Residences .......17 Friendship Terrace.........................12 Gardens of Traville, The................31 Greenspring...................................14 Hillside Apartment Homes ...........40 Homecrest House............................7 Homewood at Frederick................36

Dental Services

Financial/ Insurance Services Children’s National Hospital.........31 Mutual of Omaha ..........................32

Funeral Services Going Home Cremation................18

Government Services DC Dept of Insurance ...................20 DC Office on Aging ................28-29

Kensington Park............................24 Landing of Silver Spring, The ......................15 Modern at Art Place, The ................3 Overture Fair Ridge ......................16 Quantum Property Mgmt .................25 R Homes Communities ....................43 Riderwood.....................................14 Sommerset Retirement..................19 Springvale Terrace ........................22 Victory Housing............................27 Vinson Hall ...................................18

Legal Services Farr Law Firm ...............................34 Law Offices of Lee Holdmann .....31 Law Offices of Paul Riekhof ........35

Medical/Health Arya Wellness Center......................9 Health For Life Dispensary...........17 Herbology .....................................16 Lesner Hearing..............................17 Medical Eye Center ......................26 Nexus Montgomery ......................19 Noxicare........................................18 Providence Health Systems.............4 Silver Spring Medical Center .......13

Miscellaneous AARP............................................37 AccessJCA ....................................36 Silkway Movers.............................12

Real Estate Long & Foster/ Eric Stewart..........................33, 39

Weichert/Sue Heyman ..................25

Retail/Pawn/Auction Healthy Back Store .......................10 Maryland Estate Treasure .............31 McKay Used Books ......................22

Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation Brooke Grove ..................................8 Cadia Healthcare...........................19 Hebrew Home ...............................21 Manor Care Health Services.........15

Subscriptions Beacon Newspaper........................53 Washington Jewish Week..............35

Theatre/ Entertainment City of Rockville...........................20 Ford’s Theatre................................48 F. Scott Fitzgerald Theatre ............44 Kennedy Center ......................45, 49 Peabody Preparatory .....................47 Senior Zone...................................42 Toby’s Dinner Theatre ...................44 US Air Force Band........................47 Wolf Trap ......................................46

Tour & Travel Almost Heaven Vacations .............41 Eyre Travel ....................................41 Festive Holidays ............................42 Martinsburg, WV Travel ...............40 Shillelaghs.....................................39

More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

M AY 2 0 1 9 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

MAY – June 2019

UPCOMING SEMINARS & EVENTS at Brooke Grove retirement village

As experts in senior care and memory support, Brooke Grove Retirement Village is pleased to offer seminars and events that promote physical, spiritual and mental well-being. All seminars and events will be held at Brooke Grove Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, located at 18131 Slade School Road on the Brooke Grove Retirement Village campus, unless otherwise noted. Please register with Toni Davis at 301-388-7209 or tdavis@bgf.org. caregiver connection: “Changing Bat tles into Laughter”

Living well seminar: “Stretching: How, Why and Where”

Healthy Living class: “mindful meditation”

TUESDAY, MAY 14 • 2-3 P.M.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15 • 1-2:15 P.M.

June 12 through July 17

Alzheimer’s and dementia patients often seem to live in a different world. Discover how to engage by using the basic improv principal of “yes, and.” This will give you a chance to play — rather than battle — with the realities experienced by your loved one, while also helping them to feel heard and accepted.

Flexibility training is important for everyday functioning, pain relief and injury prevention. It can improve your golf swing, tennis game or other leisure activities you enjoy! Learn when you should stretch and identify moves that can be carried out seated or standing — anytime, anywhere.

WEDNESDAYS • 11-11:30 A.M.

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

Six-week Session Fee: $20

FREE. Register by May 12.

Recent scientific studies show that mindful meditation changes the brain in astonishing ways — promoting greater focus, reduced anxiety, increased compassion and improved well-being. Experience guided, mindful meditation in a quiet space.

Reservations are requested by June 9. FREE. Register by May 13. Alzheimer’s disease and dementia care consultations

Healthy Living class: “Everyday balance”

SECOND WEDNESDAY OF EACH MONTH 50-MINUTE SESSIONS

June 10 through July 17 MONDAYS & WEDNESDAYS 10-10:30 A.M.

18100 Slade School Road Sandy Spring, MD 20860

301-260-2320 · www.bgf.org

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

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.

Reservations are requested by June 7. FREE. Schedule an appointment at any time during the dementia journey.

Independent living

assisted living

rehabilitation

long-term care

memory support