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By Tony Glaros For 24 years at the same microphone, radio host Judith Krummeck, her wellmodulated voice sounding both authoritative and soothingly sweet, has rattled off breaking news while queuing up the next classical music piece from Dvorak to Mozart. During her four-hour weekday presentation, Krummeck unveils a fount of selections featuring piano and violin sonatas, oboe concertos, wind quintets and Hungarian dances. Sometimes there’s a fandango for guitar blended in, giving things that much more texture and richness. In February, Krummeck marked her 24th year at WBJC-FM, whose powerful, 50,000-watt signal creates a vast audio footprint that reaches several states. Krummeck is the drive-time radio host of the station, which is licensed to Baltimore City Community College. WBJC’s studios and offices are located in a drab building in aging Reisterstown Road Plaza, a grab-bag of offices housing fingerprinting and juvenile justice services, Giant Food shopping carts and quickserve pretzels and custard. Given classical music’s more refined and dignified image, locating the station in such an unlikely atmosphere “is very bizarre,” said the radio host and author. “It’s like walking through the pages of a Kafka novel.”

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Judith Krummeck has hosted a radio show on Maryland’s classical music station, WBJC 91.5 FM in Baltimore, since 1998. Krummeck is also an author, having published two books based on her South African upbringing and immigration to America.

Krummeck was born in South Africa but spent some of her early years in Namibia, where her father worked as a banker. Her mother, a painter working in watercolors and oils, also taught art. Krummeck’s aunt was a classical pianist, while both of her grandmothers taught piano. After growing up in this artistic family, Krummeck pursued a degree in drama and art history at the University of Cape Town. She started acting, “taking words on a page and turning them into dialogue,” as she put it. Over time, though, she said, the stage lost its luster. “Sadly, I found [the marketing] aspect of the acting world — pressing the flesh, networking, et cetera — really depressed me.” Krummeck grew up at a time when the

specter of apartheid dominated and defined South Africa’s social, political and economic infrastructure. In her first year at the University of Cape Town, she took part in anti-government protests. “I sat on the steps of St. George’s Cathedral,” she recalled. “There were photographs of students being beaten by batons.” The news media, too, “was very much under the thumb of the nationalist government. My brother had his mail opened for years because of his stand against apartheid.” In time, the brutal, decades-long struggle drove Krummeck to a personal crossroads, and she decided, “This is not a country I want to live in.”

Moving to America Emigrating to the U.S. in 1996 with her husband, Douglas Blackstone, an American attorney, “I didn’t know what I was going to do here,” she said. “I looked at all my training — theater, broadcasting, arts. I was really throwing the net wide.” Krummeck came across an ad in a broadcasting trade magazine: WBJC was looking for a staff announcer. So, hoping to realize a dream of finding a job at a classical music station on the East Coast, she applied, auditioned and was hired. “I got the job out of the blue,” she remembered. Still, the road connecting acting to radio See RADIO HOST, page 20

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Alzheimer’s drug saga Last year, we covered the controversy Not only did the studies not prove over the FDA’s approval of Aduhelm, the Aduhelm to be effective, they revealed new — and first ever — drug some very serious — in one treatment to claim the ability case fatal — side effects, into slow the progress of cluding falls, brain bleeding Alzheimer’s disease. More and brain swelling. has happened in the last few Despite its uncertain (unweeks. likely?) benefit, the drug’s deTo summarize, the FDA veloper, Biogen, proposed to approved the drug under a charge patients (in most process that bypassed its cases, that means Medicare) usual “safe and effective” $56,000 a year for the prodstandard. Instead, Aduhelm uct. received “accelerated ap- FROM THE Today, more than one out proval” based on an expecta- PUBLISHER of 10 Medicare recipients suftion that its proven ability to By Stuart P. Rosenthal fer from Alzheimer’s. As a reremove clumps of amyloid sult, when Medicare set its protein in the brains of papremium rates for 2022, it tients (one of several biomarkers of the raised them by the largest dollar-amount disease) ought to reduce patient symp- ever: $21.60 per month, about half of toms. which it said was due to the expected cost Unfortunately, the studies on which the of covering this one drug. approval was based were in conflict on this That means 56 million Medicare recipipoint. In fact, two early studies of the drug ents are each being charged $130 more were halted by the manufacturer itself due this year to cover the cost of this dubious to disappointing results. treatment for eligible patients. Furthermore, of the 11 medical experts In my view, there are several parties reconvened by the FDA to consider all the sponsible for this egregious situation: The study evidence, 10 indicated the studies researchers who pushed the FDA to apfailed to show “clinical effects,” and addi- prove the drug despite the absence of the tionally expressed uncertainty even as to usually required evidence; the patient adthe role of amyloid in Alzheimer’s disease. vocacy groups who have sought a treat-

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ment — any treatment! — for Alzheimer’s for decades and lobbied the FDA heavily for approval; the manufacturer, who reportedly priced the drug based on “comparables” from life-saving cancer treatments (Aduhelm is not a life-saver, or even a proven life-extender at present); and even competitor drug manufacturers pursuing similar lines of research who hoped to piggyback on the approval of Aduhelm to promote their own treatments. Fortunately, though the FDA overlooked its “safe and effective” standards in this case, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), which administers Medicare, did not ignore its “reasonable and necessary” standards for covering the drug’s cost. Normally, Medicare pays for all FDA-approved drugs. This year, however, CMS announced it would cover Aduhelm’s cost only for patients enrolled in an approved double-blind study of the treatment’s effectiveness. I will also note that, due to a great outcry over Aduhelm’s originally proposed cost, and also to the reluctance of many leading hospitals and medical practices to prescribe the treatment, Biogen cut the price in half. As a result, Medicare is now considering whether to reduce the current premium. They certainly should, not only because of the price drop, but due to the very limited coverage Medicare is offering. Here’s how I view the characters in this modern-day morality play: • The FDA, in providing accelerated approval, succumbed to political and other pressures, ignoring long-standing rules, established expectations, and the judgment of its experts. • Biogen was guilty of overreach both in pushing for full approval without satisfactory evidence, and aggressively pricing this drug of limited effectiveness. On the plus side, at least the company responded to market pressures and reduced the

price, though it’s still exorbitant. • Medicare made two smart calls: first, in pricing this drug into 2022 premiums, and second, in publicizing the degree to which the new drug was responsible for the increase. This transparency appropriately galvanized public response. I think it would be wise for Medicare to act similarly whenever extraordinarily priced drugs have a measurable effect on premiums. • CMS was not wrong to both limit coverage of the drug and to require all patients receiving it to participate in a study. However, I wish those studies were not required to be placebo-controlled, because that means half the patients will not be receiving the real drug, and that the number (and locations) of participants will be highly limited. Another, less onerous route exists for collecting study data on new drugs: a CMS-approved registry. That would permit more patients to obtain Aduhelm from doctors all over the country, and require those doctors to submit data to CMS that could be used to prove (or disprove) the new drugs’ effectiveness over time in realworld settings. CMS’s position is that placebo-controlled studies must first establish evidence of effectiveness so that registry data can be compared against those results. Once such studies are complete, the registry can be utilized to gather data more broadly through the population. That means most Alzheimer’s patients and their caregivers and families will have to wait several more years before finding out if they will get a chance to try the much-hyped, much hoped-for Aduhelm or one of the other treatments still in development. Let’s hope that day comes. It can’t be too soon.

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Dear Editor: I am so glad to see your editorial about voting in the April Beacon. I am a lifetime GDI, well, we will just say Independent. You missed one thing which has irritated me for almost 60 years, since I first voted after I turned 18. I have long insisted that if GOP and DEMs wanted a closed primary, the parties should pay for them. Smaller parties could do a caucus or some such so they would not need to pay as much. Then each party can put their choice on the general election ballot. This could include Green,

Libertarian etc. parties. Why should independents have to pay for elections in which we are not allowed to vote? And of course, ranked voting is a good answer to multiple runoffs. I think even multiple runoffs are better than having only a small percentage of voters, like 7% or 14% of those who come out and vote, to [choose] the winners. If you can’t win 50% of the few voters in a primary, you should not be the winner, even as your par ty’s nominee. And that See LETTERS TO EDITOR, page 21

B A L T I M O R E B E A C O N — M AY 2 0 2 2

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ANOTHER VACCINE? A COVID infection can bring on shingles; a shingles vaccine can help ALEXA, CALL THE DOCTOR Amazon technology offers speechactivated telehealth appointments BLURRY VISION Simple home adjustments can help you cope with early cataracts SAY IT AGAIN, SAM A new study may help you learn to hear better in noisy situations

For more happiness, try fewer choices By Kelly Bilodeau, Harvard Health Blog If the events of the past two years have left you feeling emotionally deflated, you’re not alone. Cheer has been in short supply during the pandemic, and you may be in serious need of a mood boost. Yet while this slice of time may have been unusually stressful, people often struggle to find happiness even in normal times. This is why the field of positive psychology first emerged in the 1990s. It sought to answer the questions: Why is it sometimes hard to be happy? And is there a way to help people improve their mood and life outlook? The answer to the second question is yes. You can do a lot to improve the quality of your daily life and feel more fulfilled. Test out this recipe for improved happiness, which includes a mix of three physical and emotional strategies. Try each of these options for a week. Assess whether one or more of these positive steps increased your happiness — and then keep doing it!

Get out and get active Fresh air and exercise are a powerful mood-lifting combination. Take the opportunity to get outside and get moving.

Regular exercise can help to improve both your health and your mood. Aerobic activity like walking, biking or running releases mood-boosting hormones that can reduce stress and confer a sense of well-being. Also, when your muscles contract in a repetitive pattern, as they do when you are walking, swimming or doing activities such as yoga, it bumps up levels of a chemical in your brain called serotonin, which is what many antidepressants are designed to do. Higher levels of serotonin are associated with better mood. In fact, one study found that just 90 minutes a week of activity provided mood improvements similar to an antidepressant. When combined with medication, exercise can even help mood disorders that have been resistant to other treatments. How much movement should you strive for? Research shows that ideally you should try for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise five days a week, or a vigorous 20 minutes three times a week. But if you can’t do that much, remember

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pause and enjoy small pleasures like these every day.

Limit your decisions Appreciate small daily pleasures Little annoyances can spoil the best day — you misplace your keys, stub your toe or encounter a grouchy coworker. But the reverse is true as well. Studies show that taking the time to appreciate small, pleasurable moments can make you feel happier. Focus on small daily events the same way you would big ones like a wedding day, the birth of a child or a relaxing vacation. After all, it’s those little moments that make up most of your life. Savor time spent gardening (yes, potted plants count) or sitting in a sunny window with a cup of tea; laugh with family members over a good meal; or settle in with a good book. Also, celebrate tiny milestones and achievements — a project well done or a daily goal met. Make a conscious effort to

“Having lots of choices can generate more worry.”

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that some is always better than none. Even a quick 10-to-15-minute walk can elevate your mood, at least in the short term.

It may sound like a dream to have endless options, but in truth having lots of choices can generate more worry. Happiness does depend partly upon choices — after all, it would be highly stressful not to have any control over your life. However, research has found that people given more options have more opportunity for regret. This is why people who run meditation or spiritual retreats often limit selections. Not having to make numerous decisions all day long can be freeing. A simple exercise can help you ease the choice burden. Decide that if a decision won’t bring major consequences, you’ll limit the amount of time you give yourself to pick, or you’ll give yourself fewer options. Don’t allow yourself to second-guess the decision once it’s made. Save the heavy deliberations for bigger, more consequential issues. However, even when making these choices, try to avoid looking back. © 2022 Harvard University. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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M AY 2 0 2 2 — B A L T I M O R E B E A C O N

Can COVID bring on a case of shingles? Dear Savvy Senior: get, the greater your risk for shingles. How effective is the shingles vaccine, The reason for this is because when you and what is the CDC’s reccontract COVID-19, your imommendation for getting it? mune system becomes comMy older brother and sister, promised as it fights the virus, both in their 50s, got which gives shingles — a virus COVID a few months back, that already exists in your followed by shingles. Do you body if you’ve had chickenpox know if there is a connection — a chance to reactivate. between these viruses, and Here’s what you should would the shingles vaccine know about shingles, the have protected them? shingles vaccine, and the rec—Scared of Shingles ommendations of the Centers SAVVY SENIOR for Disease Control and PreDear Scared: Great question! Many health- By Jim Miller vention (CDC): care professionals across the country have been urging their older patients What are shingles? to get the shingles vaccine (in addition to the Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, COVID-19 vaccinations) during the pandemic is a burning, blistering skin rash that afbecause getting COVID-19 can indeed in- fects 1 million Americans each year. crease your chances of developing shingles. The same virus that causes chickenpox And the more severe case of COVID you causes shingles. What happens is the chick-

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enpox virus that most people get as kids never leaves your body. It hides in the nerve cells near the spinal cord and, for some people, emerges later in the form of shingles. One out of every three Americans will develop shingles during their lifetime. While anyone who’s had chickenpox can get shingles, it most commonly occurs in people over age 50, along with people who have weakened immune systems. But you can’t catch shingles from someone else. Early signs of the disease include pain, itching or tingling before a blistering rash appears several days later, and can last up to four weeks. The rash typically occurs on one side of the body, often as a band of blisters that extends from the middle of your back around to the breastbone. It can also appear above an eye or on the side of the face or neck. In addition to the rash, about 20 to 25% of those who get shingles go on to develop severe nerve pain (called post-herpetic neuralgia, or PHN) that can last for months or even years. And in rare cases, shingles can also cause strokes, encephalitis, spinal cord damage and vision loss.

The shingles vaccine The vaccine for shingles, called Shingrix, provides much better protection than the old shingles vaccine, Zostavax. Manu-

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factured by GlaxoSmithKline, Shingrix is 97% effective in preventing shingles in people 50-69 years old, and 91% effective in those age 70 and older. Shingrix also does a terrific job of preventing nerve pain that continues after the rash has cleared — about 90% effective. Because of this protection, the CDC recommends that everyone age 50 and older receive the Shingrix vaccine, which is given in two doses, separated by two to six months. Even if you’ve already had shingles, you still need these vaccinations because reoccurring cases are possible. The CDC also recommends that anyone previously vaccinated with Zostavax be revaccinated with Shingrix. You should also know that Shingrix can cause some adverse side effects for some people, including muscle pain, fatigue, headache, fever and upset stomach. Shingrix, which averages around $205 for both doses, is covered by most private health insurance plans, including Medicare Part D prescription drug plans, but there may be a cost, depending on your plan. Contact your insurer to find out. 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.

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should be done in the morning and repeated at least once to ensure accuracy. Most laboratories use 300 to 1,000 nanograms per deciliter as the normal range for total testosterone. Based on your results and your symptoms, you and your doctor might discuss TRT. But keep in mind that your testosterone level and how you feel may not be connected. Howard LeWine, M.D., is an internist at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston and assistant professor at Harvard Medical School. Visit health.harvard.edu. © 2022 Harvard University. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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and it’s hard to predict which men with low levels can benefit from TRT. Testosterone levels vary among men of the same age, and men experience testosterone deficiency symptoms at different levels. In fact, many men with low levels have no symptoms. If you’ve experienced changes that could be related to low testosterone, speak with your doctor. He or she will first want to explore whether your symptoms are related to another cause — such as overuse of alcohol, a thyroid problem or depression. The next step is to measure your blood level for total testosterone. Because levels fluctuate throughout the day, the test

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each year for the rest of his life. This change is so gradual that many men don’t notice the effects for several decades. So, the question remains: Do the progressively lower levels of testosterone cause symptoms in a man, the way lower levels of estrogen do in a woman? There is no doubt that they can, but it can be hard to tell. There are situations when a man might experience an abrupt fall in testosterone because of an injury or illness, chemotherapy or radiation treatment, or certain medications. Extremely low levels can clearly cause loss of muscle mass and bone strength, increased body fat, drop in energy, less interest in sex, and erectile dysfunction. In these cases, the term “male menopause” could be applied, and testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) may improve the symptoms. However, in the average man, linking testosterone levels to symptoms is tricky,

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By Howard LeWine, M.D. Q: Do men go through a phase of menopause similar to what women experience? A: Like women, men experience a drop in sex hormone levels as they age. But in men, the pace of these changes is quite different. In women, levels of estrogen — the primary female sex hormone — remain high for many decades. Then, around age 50, the levels plunge over a period of about five years. The lower levels of estrogen cause the physical and psychological changes of menopause, including the cessation of menstrual periods. When a woman enters menopause, it’s easy for her to tell. For the vast majority of men, the change is much more gradual. Levels of a man’s main sex hormone, testosterone, begin to drop as early as age 30. Instead of plunging within a few years, testosterone levels drop slowly (about 1%)

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M AY 2 0 2 2 — B A L T I M O R E B E A C O N

Amazon’s Alexa can get you a doctor 24/7 By Tom Murphy and Anne D’Innocenzio If there is no doctor in the house, Amazon’s Alexa will soon be able to summon one. Amazon and telemedicine provider Teladoc Health are starting a voice-activated virtual care program that lets customers get medical help without picking up their phones. The service, for health issues that aren’t emergencies, will be available around the clock on Amazon’s Echo devices. Customers can tell the voice assistant Alexa that they want to talk to a doctor, and that will prompt a call back on the device from a Teladoc physician. The program, announced this spring, marks Amazon’s latest expansion into healthcare and another push by the retail giant into a form of care that grew rapidly

during the COVID-19 pandemic. “Telehealth now is something that patients have gotten used to and may come to expect as an option for their care,” said Lori Uscher-Pines, a senior policy researcher with Rand Corp. “[Before] the pandemic, there might not have been this much awareness that this was a service that was available.”

Disrupting healthcare Amazon already dispenses prescription drugs and is expanding an Amazon Care program it launched in 2019 that offers telemedicine visits with an option to send a care provider to the patient if they need an in-person visit. The company’s latest healthcare expan-

sion comes as several competitors, including Walmart, CVS and Walgreens, also beef up their medical offerings. They are adding care clinics or virtual programs to make it easier for patients to find regular help in the fragmented U.S. healthcare system. Insurers and employers that pay medical bills are pushing for this as a way to improve health and cut down on hospital stays or other big medical expenses. “Healthcare is a huge industry of enormous value, and it is ripe for disruption,” said Neil Saunders, managing director of GlobalData Retail. “And Amazon views itself as a disruptor.”

Used in British hospitals Some hospitals already use Alexa as a voice assistant in patient rooms. In Great Britain, Alexa works with that country’s National Health Service to help answer medical questions with advice from the country’s official website. The service will be available for customers who create an Alexa voice ID. After telling the voice assistant that they need to talk to a doctor, people will be connected to a Teladoc call center and then get a call back from a physician. The calls are audio-only for now, but the companies say they expect to add video

soon. In some cases, doctors will be able to prescribe medications. Customers can get a call back the same day, but that may depend on the availability of doctors in the state where the patient is located, Teladoc spokesman Chris Savarese said. He noted that the ongoing pandemic may lead to longer wait times. The cost for a visit can vary depend on the patient’s coverage. Without insurance, the calls will cost $75. Savarese said Amazon will not be able to access, record or store the content of the ensuing call.

Won’t replace in-person visits Telemedicine in general grew rapidly when the pandemic first hit the United States and patients wanted to hunker down at home instead of visiting the doctor’s office. Virtual visits have since leveled off a bit as office visits have widely resumed. But Uscher-Pines said research shows that patients remain interested. Many want telemedicine available when they need its convenience, not as a replacement for in-person care. “Most people don’t want that to cannibalize their in-person care,” she said. “They still want those options.” —AP

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B A L T I M O R E B E A C O N — M AY 2 0 2 2

Stiff muscles? Don’t stretch; strengthen By Lauren Hubbard Dear Mayo Clinic: I am a ver y active person. I visit the gym and run regularly. Although I have been able to avoid any major injuries, I find myself constantly stretching my hamstrings. It seems no matter how flexible I get, they still feel tight. What else can I do? A: Having an active lifestyle is important to achieving long-term health and wellness, so congratulations on maintaining regular exercise — and avoiding injuries. Stretching has probably helped protect you from injury. Stretching is an important component of any exercise program. Most aerobic and strength training programs inherently cause your muscles to contract and tighten. Stretching can increase flexibility and improve your joints’ range of motion, helping you move more freely. Stretching after you exercise also can boost circulation. It is not uncommon to see patients like yourself who have a constant urge to stretch their hamstrings — a muscle on the back of the thigh that bends the knee. These patients state that they feel the desire to stretch frequently to get rid of a sensation that their muscle feels tight or stiff. This type of stretching, known as static stretching, is when we passively hold a muscle in an elongated position in attempts

to lengthen it from its previous state. More often than not, this type of stretching only provides short-term relief, and then the tight sensation comes right back. The reason for this has to do with how your body is triggering you and with the way your nerve and pain pathways work. Studies have shown that this feeling of stiffness does not always correlate with lack of mobility or flexibility in the affected area. Instead, the stiffness is a message from the nervous system alerting the brain on the current state of your body. In essence, your body is hurting, so the nervous system is sending this message in hopes of getting your attention to slow your movements. In some cases, the sensation of tightness and stiffness may signal an injury, but usually it is only an alert from the body in an attempt to help you avoid potential injury.

portance of the information and either decides that it is harmful or dismisses it. If it decides that the environment is harmful, the brain creates pain sensations at that location. Relating this back to stiffness, this sensation is simply a constant message being sent from the nerve endings about that muscle, and the brain is deciding that the message could potentially be harmful. As a result, the brain is creating discomfort in that area. Over time, however, when the affected area of the body is strengthened, the nervous system becomes less concerned about injury because it no longer perceives weakness as a potential threat. Patients with hamstring issues often get more long-term relief from tightness with specific stability exercises as opposed to stretching alone. Consider adding activities such as squats or dead lifts.

When stretching can help How (and why) we feel pain Pain nerves do not exist in the body. Instead, the nerve endings send messages about its environment to the brain. It may tell the brain it is experiencing sensations such as warmth, vibration or light touch, which can be considered potential threats. These messages are taken from the nerve endings, up the spinal cord and into the brain. At this point, the brain weighs the im-

Be aware that there is another common pain generator that often sends people to physical therapy: the piriformis muscle. This muscle is beneath your glutes and works to turn your hip outward. Pain in this muscle can create a constant grabbing sensation in the glute, and can cause you to have a sore lower back and hamstrings. Typically, this can be treated with stretches where you pull your knee

up toward your opposite shoulder. In general, when you’re stretching, keep it gentle. Breathe freely as you hold each stretch for around 30 seconds. Try not to hold your breath. Don’t bounce or hold a painful stretch. Expect to feel tension while you’re stretching. If you feel pain, you’ve gone too far.

When strengthening is key Remember that the sensations felt in your body are your brain’s attempts to tell you to strengthen, move or behave in a different way. These sensations serve to drive your behaviors and do not necessarily correlate with the actual biomechanical state of the body. As a result, perceived stiffness does not always mean that the muscle is tight or needs to be stretched. Oftentimes, the muscle needs strengthening to help bring stability to the tissue. You may find a guide to stretching useful; see bitly.com/basicstretches. If you’re continuing to experience tension or pain, and stretches do not relieve this tension or pain, consult with a physical therapist, orthopedist or sports medicine specialist. These healthcare providers can identify the underlying cause of your constant feeling of tightness and, if necessary, provide See STIFF MUSCLES, page 8

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When is it time to get cataract surgery? By Julie Corliss Starting around age 40, the lenses of your eyes start becoming cloudy, a condition known as cataracts. In many people, cataracts eventually become so dense that their vision becomes blurry or distorted. By age 80, more than half of Americans will have developed a cataract or had cataract surgery. This surgery — a quick, safe procedure that involves replacing the clouded lens with a clear plastic one — offers a very effective cure. But unless your eye doctor advises otherwise, you may not need to have surgery right away. “Most cataracts progress very slowly and can be safely observed until you feel you need better vision — for example, if you have difficulty reading or seeing street signs,” said Dr. Laura Fine, a cataract specialist and clinical instructor in ophthalmology at Harvard Medical School. One of the most common early symptoms

of cataracts is poor night vision, especially in the rain or when driving. People often complain of seeing glare or starbursts from headlights when driving at night, she added.

Coping with early cataracts In the early stages of cataract formation, you might notice a slight decline in your vision, but not so much that it affects your day-to-day activities. In some cases, the lens simply thickens, causing nearsightedness, rather than becoming opaque. When that’s the case, the following tips can help: • See your eye doctor for a new eyeglass or contact lens prescription. • Put brighter lightbulbs in the lamps around your home, especially the ones you use to read or do other close work. • Reduce glare by positioning lights directly behind you, pointed on the task (such as on the book you’re reading). • Use magnifying lenses to read or work. • Place contrasting colors — such as a

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dark blanket on a light chair — around your home to help you see better. These measures help many people safely delay cataract surgery for years. Some end up never needing surgery. But people who rely on their eyes for work, such as architects, dentists and jewelers, may need surgery sooner than others.

When it’s time for surgery Typically, people have surgery in the eye with the denser cataract first. If the other eye has only a minimal cataract, a second eye surgery many not be needed for years. However, most people with age-related cataracts have similar disease in both eyes, and the second eye is usually done a few weeks after the first one, once it’s had a chance to heal. Because there are follow-up visits one day and one week after each surgery, the whole process generally takes about two months in all, Fine said.

Stiff muscles From page 7 you with individualized strengthening exercises to improve your symptoms. — Lauren Hubbard, D.P.T., Physical Therapy, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida Mayo Clinic Q & A is an educational

It’s a good idea to sort out logistics in advance, Fine noted. For example: • In addition to a ride home after the surgery, some older patients may need drivers or caregivers to be with them for follow-up visits, and possibly to assist with administering eye drops following surgery. • For the first few weeks after cataract surgery, it’s important to take certain precautions. During the first week, people should avoid lifting things heavier than 10 to 15 pounds. For the first two weeks, people shouldn’t wear eye makeup and should also avoid swimming, baths and hot tubs. Vision may be blurry in the first few days after surgery but gradually will improve. More than 95% of people who undergo cataract surgery end up with visual acuity of 20/40 or better. Still, most people will likely continue to need glasses for reading or driving. © 2022 Harvard University. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. resource and doesn’t replace regular medical care. Email a question to MayoClinicQ&A@mayo.edu. For more information, visit mayoclinic.org. © 2021 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. All rights reserved. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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Ways to maintain your feel-great weight By Tina Haupert, Health.com Does this pattern sound familiar? You follow a strict diet and lose weight but then, on reaching your goal, you ditch the diet and gain the pounds back. If you want to shed weight once and for all (and stop torturing yourself with restrictive dieting and constant hunger!), focus on adopting healthy eating and exercise habits that are balanced and livable. Small changes to your daily lifestyle can add up to help you lose weight and maintain it. Here are everyday ways to help maintain your happy weight: Eat often. Eating frequently might sound counterintuitive if you’re trying to lose weight. But aiming for three healthy meals and two small snacks a day means you’re eating something every three hours or so, so you’ll never let yourself get too hungry. This prevents overeating later and keeps your metabolism humming along. Get cooking with your oven. Roast-

ed vegetables are an easy snack or quick addition to a meal. Get into the habit of popping a baking sheet full of vegetables in the oven to roast along with whatever else you’re cooking. That way, you always have a nutritious option on hand. Set exercise reminders. Your calendar can keep you organized with all aspects of your life, including workouts. Schedule workouts for the week ahead every Sunday. Having them all laid out with plenty of time to exercise may motivate you to stick to your routine. Create a motivation board. Feeling down-in-the-dumps and unmotivated about fitness and exercise? Try making a motivation board on Pinterest. Just the act of creating it may lift your funk and serve as a constant source of inspiration when you’re just feeling lazy but know you should exercise. Think 50-50. When preparing meals, aim to have fruits and veggies make up about half of the plate. Breakfast, for in-

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stance, could include a large banana or a cup of fresh berries. For lunch and dinner, add roasted veggies or a big salad (or both). All of that brightly colored produce packs tons of nutrients, but not many calories. Eat real food. You’ve probably heard this one before, but the more packaged and processed foods you eat, the less satisfied you’re likely to feel. Instead of eating a package of pretzels or cookies, for example, reach for half of a sandwich or a banana with peanut butter to fill you up and satisfy your hunger. Plan ahead. If you plan out what you’re going to eat at the beginning of the week and the start of each day, you’ll be less likely to scramble for something to eat when you’re really hungry. Having food ready at hand can help you resist junk food and unhealthy take-

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out when your stomach starts to grumble. Finish last. Eating is not a race! Slow down and properly chew your food instead of inhaling what’s on your plate. Try this out and focus more on the overall dining experience. You’ll consume fewer calories. Eat by the numbers. When enjoying a big meal, stop eating when you’re at 6 or 7 on a scale of 1 to 10 (where 10 is stuffed to the gills). It may be that 20 minutes later, you feel even more full. Aim for feeling satisfied, not stuffed. Health delivers relevant information in clear, jargon-free language that puts health into context in peoples’ lives. Online at health.com. © 2022 Meredith Corporation. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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Health Studies INFORMATION ON AREA CLINICAL TRIALS Say what? Study helps focus on hearing By Margaret Foster If you have trouble keeping up with a conversation in a noisy restaurant, you’re not alone. After all, as we age, our ears and brains age, too. Now researchers at the University of Maryland’s Hearing Lab are launching a study to teach older adults how to listen

better. They’re seeking 100 volunteers between the ages of 65 and 85. “For someone who has trouble understanding what’s going on at a dinner table at a restaurant and would like to be able to understand better, this might help them,” said Jonathan Simon, principal investigator. “It could also help us determine what

helps other people.” Simon’s team has designed a training program to help listeners understand more of what others are saying and to reduce the effort it takes to do that.

Six weeks, mostly at home The six-week study includes five in-person visits to College Park, Maryland. Parking is free, and compensation will be provided. But most of the study can be done at home on a computer. Each participant will listen to a 30-minute session and answer questions about what they’ve heard. Even “for people who don’t feel that comfortable with computers, it works just fine,” Simon said. His staff will check in “at the beginning and the end [of each session] to make sure everything is working and that participants are comfortable.” Once enrolled, participants will be placed at random into one of three groups. One group will watch instructional videos and answer questions about them. Another group will listen to a speaker while someone else talks over them at varying volumes. The third group will take a memory test, which

“involves much more of the brain and brings in memory and listening,” Simon said. For each participant, both before and after the training, Simon said, “We measure how difficult it is for them to understand speech in noisy conditions, and, critically, also their brain activity.” To track brain activity, everyone will have a magnetoencephalography (MEG) scan, a non-invasive test that measures the magnetic fields produced by the brain’s electrical currents. Eligible participants will also have a 15-minute MRI during the study. People tend to prefer a MEG scan to an MRI scan because they’re “quiet and not confining,” Simon pointed out. “We want to see what good things have happened to their brains — how these improvements have made their brains better,” Simon said. Taking part in the study could improve your hearing and pave the way for future scientific developments, he said. “There’s potentially something in it for them and for the greater community.” If you’re interested in participating in the Speech Perception and High Cognitive Demand study, call (301) 405-5629.

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Make meatballs with pesto for big flavor By America’s Test Kitchen For a new spin on meatballs, add basil pesto for big flavor. The pesto replaces the minced herbs, minced garlic and grated cheese in standard meatball recipes. Buy pesto from the refrigerated section of the supermarket — it has a fresher flavor than the jarred pesto sold in the grocery aisles. [Non-dairy vegan pesto made with nutritional yeast may also be used.] This kid-friendly recipe is easy to follow, so young ones can join in on the cooking fun. Just be sure an adult is nearby to help, especially when using the oven.

Pesto Turkey Meatballs with Marinara Sauce Serves 4 Ingredients: Vegetable oil spray 1 pound (93% lean) ground turkey ¾ cup pesto

½ cup panko bread crumbs ¼ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon pepper 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil 2 garlic cloves, peeled and minced 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes Directions: 1. Adjust the oven rack to the middle position and heat the oven to 450 degrees. Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil. Spray foil with vegetable oil spray. 2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, pesto, panko, salt and pepper. Use your hands to gently mix until well combined. 3. Lightly wet your hands. Use your wet hands to roll turkey mixture into 16 meatballs. Arrange meatballs evenly on the baking sheet. Wash your hands. 4. Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake until meatballs are just beginning to brown, about 15 minutes.

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5. While meatballs bake, add oil to Dutch oven. Heat over medium heat for 1 minute (oil should be hot but not smoking). Stir in garlic with wooden spoon and cook for 30 seconds. Stir in tomatoes and bring to boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 10 minutes. 6. Use oven mitts to remove the baking sheet with meatballs from the oven. Place the baking sheet on a cooling rack. 7. Use tongs to carefully transfer meatballs to sauce in Dutch oven. Cook, gently

stirring occasionally, until meatballs are cooked through and register 165 degrees on instant-read thermometer, about 5 minutes. Turn off heat. Serve. For 25 years, confident cooks in the know have relied on America’s Test Kitchen for rigorously tested recipes developed by professional test cooks and vetted by 60,000 athome recipe testers. See more online at americastestkitchen.com/TCA. © America’s Test Kitchen. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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Money Law &

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TIPS for investing in a time of inflation Many investors are looking for conserva- tween prices and interest rates. That is, tive investments that will protect them when interest rates go up, the prices of bonds, and bond funds and against inflation. The recent ETFs, go down. fall in the stock market has many investors on edge, so they are looking for safe investBe careful where you buy ments that will provide some Note that there is a distincprotection of their asset base. tion between buying TIPS diThere are a few investrectly from the Treasury at ments that investors expect TreasuryDirect.gov and buywill provide them some proing TIPS in the form of shares tection, namely Series I savfrom mutual funds or ETFs. ings bonds [see “A good time THE SAVINGS You can purchase TIPS from for inflation-protected bonds” GAME the Treasury for terms of 5, 10 in the February Beacon], and By Elliot Raphaelson or 30 years. You may hold them mutual funds and exchangetraded funds that invest in Treasury Infla- to maturity or sell them before maturity. Your principal will increase in value based tion Protection Securities (TIPS). Series I bonds and TIPS are designed to on the CPI. At maturity, you are paid either protect investors against increases in infla- the adjusted principal or the original price, tion because their returns are linked to the whichever is higher. consumer price Index (CPI). Interest is earned twice a year at a fixed Unfortunately, some investors in TIPS rate which is applied to the adjusted princivia mutual funds and ETFs have found the pal. So, if your principal increases because value of their underlying shares recently of an increase in the CPI, the interest dropped significantly in value as interest earned would also increase. rates have risen. However, the interest is taxable in the That’s because, in general, for bond year earned — even though you won’t refunds there is an inverse relationship be- ceive the interest until maturity if you pur-

chase the TIPS directly from the Treasury. You could also purchase TIPS mutual funds and ETFs from a financial institution, but they would not have fixed 5, 10 and 30-year terms. [Instead, the fund’s return would reflect a mix of the maturities of the TIPS it purchases.] The advantage is that you would actually receive the interest paid semi-annually. However, there is a major disadvantage: You no longer have the protection of principal you get when you purchase TIPS directly from the Treasury and redeem them at maturity. When you purchase shares in the form of mutual funds and ETFs, there is no maturity date. Your shares will fluctuate in value, and when interest rates increase your shares will likely fall in value.

Recent investors got burned This has already happened this year, and I have received mail from investors complaining about the recent fall in prices. Many of them were under the false impression that, because TIPS returns are based on the CPI, their principal would also be protected and they would be receiving a positive return.

That has not been the case for shortterm investments in TIPS mutual funds and ETFs in 2022, so these investors are facing unanticipated losses. The bottom line is that investors in TIPS who want to be sure their principal is protected should ONLY purchase TIPS directly from TreasuryDirect.gov and should hold them to maturity. For example, the total return of 10-year TIPS in 2021 was 5.5%. Most investment advisers expect the Federal Reserve to continue increasing short-term interest rates in 2022. So it is expected that investors in TIPS funds and ETFs will likely see a negative return on these investments. If you had invested in these funds in prior years, you would have received good results for three and five prior years, and modest positive returns for the past year. But recent investors in these vehicles are now seeing negative returns. Year-to-date returns for many of these has been -3%. Contact TresuryDirect.gov for more information about these investments. Elliot Raphaelson welcomes your questions and comments at raphelliot@gmail.com. © 2022 Elliot Raphaelson. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Take a free course at Harvard from home By Cal Sefer The first time I heard about MOOCs, I thought it must be some kind of hybrid cow. The name caught my attention, so I did what I always do when I want to know about something: I Googled it. Turns out MOOC stands for Massive Open Online Course. What’s that? Massive — thousands of students. Open — anyone can participate. Online — over the internet. Course — college classes. About 45 colleges in the United States and nearly 140 around the world offer online courses that you can either audit for free, or pay a modest fee of about $40 and get a certificate. (There are online courses from major universities that offer credit and degrees too, but for this article I’m writing only about free or certificate courses.)

Learning for fun I’ve taken several MOOC courses just to

learn something. Most were recorded lectures, so I could go at my own pace. I could even replay any class if I thought I had missed something. What’s more, some professors talk rather slowly, and I could speed up the playback and get through an hour’s lecture in 45 minutes. Some courses require you to pass a quiz before going onto the next lecture, but others allow you to skip the quizzes. Since I don’t want a certificate, sometimes I skip the quizzes. I can usually complete a sixweek course in a couple of weeks. Being loose with how I take the courses means I probably miss something, but at the end I know more than when I started, and that fits my goal of learning something new every day. For example, I’ve taken a course on Financial Markets from Robert J. Shiller, a noble laureate at Yale; a course on Cybercrime

from the University of Maryland; a course on Ancient Israel from New York University; and I just completed a course from Tel Aviv University called “The Fall and Rise of Jerusalem.” All for free!

Almost endless choices When I first came across MOOCs, there weren’t a lot of choices. Since then, the idea of MOOCs has gained traction. Search “MOOC platforms” and one result will be a list of the top 10. Just put any one of them in your web browser and then go bonkers choosing from the hundreds of courses you might want to take. (The platforms I have used are Coursera and edX.) The list of courses seems endless: music, math, astronomy, computer programming, taxes, cinema, art, culinary, biology, history. You can also search by subject to find courses. Just to make the point, I looked

up something I thought kind of obscure: a “mooc course on how clocks work.” I got a list of possibilities! Before COVID, I audited at least one course at Howard Community College every semester to keep my brain working. Since COVID, I’ve used MOOC courses as a substitute. Currently I’m into ancient Middle Eastern history. Without the MOOC classes, I’d have never thought to travel there. Now I’m finding it fascinating and contemplating a trip. Whether you’re still working or retired, you can reward yourself by learning something new or reviewing a subject you haven’t thought about in a while. And you can do it at your own pace at no cost. I keep thinking about going back over algebra. I use equations every day, but can no longer figure out where two trains traveling See FREE COURSES, page 13

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B A L T I M O R E B E A C O N — M AY 2 0 2 2

Con artists target people who owe taxes By Rivan V. Stinson With tax season under way, the IRS is once again warning taxpayers to be wary of “Offer in Compromise” scams. These promotions claim that they can help taxpayers pay back taxes for just “pennies on the dollar.” But victims often end up paying the promoters thousands of dollars in fees and still end up owing money to the IRS. While the IRS’s Offer in Compromise (OIC) program allows taxpayers to request a reduction in unpaid taxes, the guidelines are strict and only a small percentage of applications are approved. To be eligible for the program, you must be up-to-date on your tax returns and have received at least one bill from the IRS. You’ll be required to provide supporting documents, including a breakdown of your

Free courses From page 12 in opposite directions at various speeds would meet — and I don’t see how I can possibly go on without knowing how to do that! Even after my life gets back to a postpandemic normal, I’ll keep making use of the learning opportunities made available

expenses. The IRS will then review your income and the assets you own, such as equity in your home, to determine whether you’re eligible to have some of your tax debts forgiven. If it determines that you can afford to repay your taxes in full through an installment program, it will likely reject your offer. You can find out if you pre-qualify for the OIC program by going to irs.treasury.gov/ oic_pre_qualifier. The IRS charges a $250 application fee, but waives it for low-income taxpayers.

Bank officer impersonators Consumers also need to be on the lookout for con artists who claim to be fraud officers from their bank. Here’s how it works: in MOOCs. Try it; you’ll like it. Visit edx.org or coursera.com for a list of their free classes. You can also search for a specific university’s free courses at their website (for example, Open Yale Courses at oyc.yale.edu; Professional and Lifelong Learning Courses at pll.harvard.edu, etc.). Note: some courses on these sites do charge for tuition.

BEACON BITS

May 15

RAISE FUNDS AT WALK/RUN/FUN DAY Help the nonprofit organization One Love raise $350,000 to edu-

cate young people in the Mid-Atlantic about the signs of healthy and unhealthy relationships with a timed 5k walk/run and day of community and family fun. The event takes place on Sun., May 15 at the Camden Yards Sports Complex. Checkin starts at 7:30 a.m., and the walk/run starts at 8:45 a.m. For more information and to register or donate, visit bit.ly/OneLove5k.

You receive a fraud alert via text or email asking you to verify a purchase you didn’t make. Respond “no,” and you’ll receive a phone call from a fraud impersonator requesting personal information, such as your username and password, in order to “catch” the scammer. The imposter then uses that information to drain your account. Never give out sensitive information over the phone or send money to people

you don’t know. If you’re not sure whether a call is legitimate, hang up and contact your bank directly. While your bank may ask you to verify your identity or account information, this usually happens when you initiate the call. © 2022 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

BEACON BITS

May 5

INVESTMENT FRAUD

Learn how to protect yourself from investment fraud in this free virtual event hosted by AARP and presented by a U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission attorney on Thurs., May 5 from 6 to 7 p.m. For more information and to register, visit bit.ly/AARPInvestmentFraud.

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M AY 2 0 2 2 — B A L T I M O R E B E A C O N

Considering a pet? Be aware of the costs By Roxanne Alexander Animals are just plain cute and can bring so much joy to your life. But like children, they are not cheap — especially if you care for your pet properly. Whether you choose to adopt a pet from an animal shelter or buy one from a store or breeder, there are several costs to consider over the life of your pet. The first one is the acquisition cost. You can adopt a dog for around $60 to over $200, depending on the shelter (this usually in-

cludes having them spayed/neutered and vaccinated), but I have seen French bulldog puppies through breeders for $7,000. There are so many advantages to having a pet. They can bring such unconditional love and companionship. The purpose of this article is not to discourage you from owning a pet, but to allow you to consider the resources you should have available for a long-term financial commitment. A dog or cat can have a lifespan of more than 15 years — this is almost like raising

a child to college age. Many people adopt or buy animals and don’t factor this into their planning. What if a new job forces you to relocate? What if pet restrictions make buying a condo or renting an apartment a problem? I have heard many sad stories of being allergic to pets or people losing their jobs and having to surrender pets they can no longer afford to care for. Some additional costs to think about are:

Food and toys

should plan on budgeting $120 to $550 per year for food per pet, according to Petfinder. For cat owners, the estimate is only a smidgeon lower: $120 to $500. I have friends who cook chicken and “people food” for their dogs. This can be as expensive as feeding another human. Your pet may need some toys, a bed and possibly a crate for training. If you have a cat you may need to purchase something they can scratch. A couple of toys can easily cost $50, a dog bed $35, and a cat scratching post $30

Food can be quite expensive, especially if you have a larger animal. Dog owners

See PETS, page 15

BEACON BITS

May 12

VETERANS’ JOB FAIR

RecruitMilitary is hosting a veterans’ job fair on Fri., May 12 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the M&T Bank Stadium. For more information, including a list of companies attending, parking information and event preparation resources, visit bit.ly/BaltVetJobFair.

May 22

INTERACT WITH TURTLES

The National History Society of Maryland hosts the second annual World Turtle Day. Interact with turtles and learn about conservation efforts on Sun., May 22 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tickets costs $5 for members; $7 for non-members. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit bit.ly/MDTurtleDay.

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Pets From page 14 or more depending on how fancy you want to get. And don’t forget the kitty litter, which could add up to $70 to $150 per year, Petfinder reports.

Training costs/property damage Puppies like to chew, and kittens like to scratch up furniture. This can be frustrating and costly, especially if the puppy ravages your expensive shoes. The average cost for dog training is about $50 per hour, but obedience training can run $200 to $600 per week. A private dog trainer can run up to $150 per hour.

Pet insurance/healthcare If your pet has known health issues based on their breed, it may make sense to either get pet insurance in advance or set aside cash for large vet bills. Pet insurance can range from as low as $10 per month to higher than $100 per month. Keep in mind many insurance companies will exclude “typical” conditions associated with a breed. Healthcare and vet bills can be a wild card depending on your pet. Keep in mind that if something serious comes up, a week in a veterinary hospital could mean a bill of $10,000 or more. With regular dental cleanings (easily $300 or more each time) and periodic vaccines, heartworm pills ($58 to $159 per year) and flea and tick prevention ($150 to $200 per year), even routine care adds up fast.

General liability insurance Some condo associations require you have liability insurance if you have a pet in case it bites or destroys property. This can increase your insurance costs. About 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs each year. If you own your home, your homeowners insurance policy often will cover dog bites, but it pays to verify. Some companies exclude covering certain breeds. In those cases, and if you are a renter, you should look into personal liability coverage and/or umbrella insurance.

BEACON BITS

May 6

HUMANE SOCIETY FUNDRAISER

On Fri., May 6 from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. the Baltimore Humane Society hosts its Black Tie and Tails Gala, with a seated dinner, music, pet fashion show and auction. Guests are encouraged to bring their pets! To purchase tickets, visit bit.ly/BHSGala.

May 10

CLEAN UP FAMILY HISTORY CENTER

Join Patapsco Heritage Greenway to clean up the Columbia Family History Center on Tues., May 10 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. To learn more and register, visit bit.ly/CHFCCleanUp.

A colleague informed me that her condo association requested an analysis of her dog’s poop so that the culprit can be identified if a dog’s poop is not cleaned up!

Grooming This can cost up to $100 per visit depending on the size of the pet and your location. Not all dogs require grooming, however.

Travel/pet sitting If you travel frequently or work outside your home, factor in the costs of someone taking care of your pet when you are away. Having a dog walker come by during the day can easily cost $20, depending on where you live. Doggy day care can be $25 per day and $40 for overnight. If you travel frequently, these costs can add up quickly.

Future planning Many people have set up trusts for their pets. Since your pet is likely part of the

family, what if something happens to you? Do you have plans in place for the pet, and the financial resources to provide for the pet after you are gone?

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Travel Leisure &

Learn on page 18 why South Padre Island is Sandcastle Capital of the World.

Fun in the sun: South Padre Island, Texas

More than just fishing Sunbathers, bike riders, surf fishermen and vacationers have long been attracted to the sand that stretches in an unbroken

line from White Sands Beach in the north to Pearl at its southern end. Fishing is by far the favorite pastime for both residents and visitors. Anglers seek their dinner in the flats of Laguna Madre Bay, which separates SPI and Port Isabel, by surf casting off beaches, dropping a line from a pier or trolling the offshore depths of the Gulf. So productive are the waters that the advertising of one charter boat captain offers “Guaranteed fish. No fish — no charge.” The popularity of that activity also becomes clear in other ways. One is the fact that streets on SPI are named after swordfish, tarpon, marlin and other denizens of the deep. In some sports bars, along with TV sets tuned to the usual athletic events, there are others beaming fishing programs. Fortunately, for visitors to the area seeking other activities, a lengthy catalog awaits their perusal and participation. Of course, the A (antiquing) to Z (ziplining) list includes many that are water-related. For starters, there’s kayaking and canoeing, snorkeling and sailing, speeding along on a jet ski and loping along a beach on horseback. Nature attracts fans to the South Padre Island Birding, Nature Center & Alligator Sanctuary, a good place to observe a variety of native wildlife. An observation tower, blinds and a

PHOTO BY SOUTH PADRE ISLAND VISITORS BUREAU

By Victor Block “Fish. Party. Repeat.” Those words, printed on a sign hanging on the wall of a restaurant in South Padre Island, Texas, refer to two of the most popular pastimes there. SPI, as the locals call it, and Port Isabel, perched at the other end of a causeway that connects the two, have outstanding beaches, a long list of both land and water activities, and intriguing historical tidbits that add color to the setting. The resorts are well known to “Winter Texans” — people primarily from the Midwest who spend several winter months soaking up the sun, and fun, in those twin towns on the Gulf of Mexico at the Lone Star State’s southern extremity. At first glance, both communities present the atmosphere of many beachfront locations. Hotels, restaurants and souvenir shops abound. Colorful golf carts are a popular mode of transportation. The favored attire gives new meaning to the words “casual clothing.” But much more awaits those who find their way to this inviting destination within a seashell’s throw of Mexico, which has a strong influence on the local culture.

Tourists can ride a Ferris wheel and watch the sun set over the Gulf of Mexico, just off South Padre Island, Texas.

PHOTO © ARINAHABICH08 | DREAMSTIME.COM

3,300-foot-long boardwalk provide close-up sightings of some of the 350-plus species of birds that have been seen in the area. During my visit, a wall chart that lists recent identifications included colorful monikers like marbled godwit and semipalmated plover. Another expedition took my wife, Fyllis, and me on a Breakaway Cruises dolphin watch excursion in Laguna Madre Bay. Captain Bob pointed out the first one as soon as we left the marina. Whenever someone spotted a telltale fin, or better yet a dolphin leaping out of the water, a collective “oooh, aaah” echoed among the passengers. Adding to the enjoyment, and education, was inspecting at close hand various specimens that a net had dredged up from the bay floor. Among sea life we examined were a stingray, several small fish and shrimp.

Shrimp a large draw

Morning and evening horseback rides along the beaches of South Padre Island give visitors a chance to explore the area when it’s quiet and cool.

It’s no surprise that shrimp were found there because those crustaceans have been the source of an industry that has thrived in the area since the middle of the 19th century. Today, Texas consistently ranks among the top three producing shrimp states, along with Alaska and Louisiana.

The trawlers typically drag their nets along the bottom of the Gulf of Mexico for as long as three weeks at a time, working at night, since shrimp are nocturnal. When not at sea, trawlers may be spotted docked at several locations in Port Isabel. Also not surprising are the variations on shrimp dishes served at local restaurants, which augment the Tex-Mex cuisine on many menus. Dishes using shrimp that were new to me included tacos, quesadillas, omelets, Eggs Benedict and even a BLT sandwich. The story of shrimping is among many told at the Port Isabel Historical Museum. Exhibits there portray the area’s past, beginning with the Spanish exploration period and moving on to the arrival of Native Americans, the Civil War and colorful tales of border folklore. The museum is housed in an 1899 building that in the past served as a dry goods store, post office and railroad station. Port Isabel is also home to a landmark lighthouse that was completed in 1853 to guide ships bringing supplies to U.S. military posts. During the American Civil War, it was used as an observation tower by both Confederate and Union forces. Of 16 See TEXAS, page 18

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B A L T I M O R E B E A C O N — M AY 2 0 2 2

Philly may bring out your inner wanderer Time travel to a quieter era On a four-day visit last November, my wife and I chose to stay in Society Hill, just south of Old City, a neighborhood of historic row houses built 200 to 300 years ago. The streets, buildings and squares look much as they did when Ben Franklin walked these very same streets more than 250 years ago. Our apartment, rented from Airbnb, was in a classic townhouse in the heart of Society Hill. Horse-drawn carriages clipclopped past our door. Across the street, visible from our living-room window, was the historic HillPhysick House, former home of the “father of modern surgery,” who treated the elite of Philadelphia society as well as several of the founding fathers. Also visible from the window was Delancy Street, a cobblestone street with some of the most faithfully restored 18thcentury Federalist and Greek Revival-style townhouses in the neighborhood. After a day of wandering through the neighborhood, we headed a few blocks north to the Historic District to check out the most historic sites of all: Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House and Elfreth’s Alley, a narrow passage lined with restored houses built between 1720 and 1830. The website of Visit Philadelphia calls it “the nation’s oldest continuously inhabited residential street.” On subsequent days, we explored South Street and Queen Village, just three short blocks south of our apartment. In my youth, South Street was a rundown commercial district where I would go to buy cheap, invariably ill-fitting suits. In the 70s and 80s, it turned into a hippie, bohemian, punk haven, and then evolved into the tourist destination it is

PHOTO BY ANETA WABERSKA/SHUTTERSTOCK

By Don Mankin I learned the art of urban wandering in Philadelphia, the city I grew up in. The French have a word for it: A flâneur is someone who strolls, rambles or saunters almost randomly through city streets, observing people and places, looking for the novel, the interesting and the unexpected. Flâneurs will peek down a street and change course, pulled in by the architecture, the look of the people, the hidden parks, the stores that support the neighborhood, or a café where others take a break from their own explorations and perambulations. Sometimes it’s simply the way the sunlight filters down through the trees. The keys to successful flânerie are spontaneity, serendipity and discovery. As the feet wander, so does the mind, revealing observations, memories and insights. When I was growing up, my father, a great wanderer in his own right, would lead me through the narrow streets of what is now known as Old City — the historic district near the Delaware River, where in 1681 William Penn founded the “greene country town” now known as Philadelphia. I reluctantly left the city behind 45 years ago when I moved to Los Angeles. As a travel writer, whenever I visit a city, I spend a day or two exploring it on foot. But after all these years, my favorite place to explore is still Philly, especially the Old City and the Society Hill and Queen Village neighborhoods to the south. Their narrow, tree-shaded streets, many of them cobblestone, are lined with restored 18th- and 19th-century townhouses, small parks and squares, hidden courts and mews, and a restaurant scene that is as creative and lively as it gets.

Philadelphia’s Elfreth’s Alley, the nation’s oldest residential street, dates to 1702. The city is full of interesting neighborhoods, like Old City and Society Hill, for visitors to explore on foot.

today, overflowing with “exotic” boutiques, tattoo parlors, headshops, hipster bars, and inexpensive places to eat. Its lively street scene is perfect for peoplewatching.

World War II-era submarine, the SpanishAmerican War cruiser USS Olympia, and a four-masted steel barque built in Scotland in 1904 that now serves as a floating restaurant.

Art galleries and a riverwalk

How to be a flâneur

Just south of South Street is Queen Village. Queen Village is just as old and walkable, almost as historic, but not as upscale as Society Hill, so the restaurants, shops and art galleries tend to be more quirky, lively and cutting-edge. A couple of blocks east is Penn’s Landing on the Delaware River, where — you guessed it — William Penn (almost) landed about 350 years ago (he actually landed further south, but the City of Philadelphia purchased the right to use the name). There you’ll find more places to eat, plus a promenade and plazas along the river. It also hosts the Independence Seaport Museum and several historic warships — including a

If you are planning a visit to Philly, find a place to stay in or close to the Historic District and bring a reliable pair of walking shoes. Get a good map, take a look at it to get an idea of where you are going, then put it away and just wander. Check the map from time to time to orient and guide your wanderings, but let your heart, not the map, be your guide. If a street looks interesting, go down it. If a café looks like a good place for a break, take a seat. If a house strikes your fancy, don’t be shy: Stop, stare, take a photo. And don’t be afraid to eat one of those See PHILADELPHIA, page 18

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Texas From page 16 lighthouses along the Texas coastline, this is the only one that’s open to visitors. The importance of Port Isabel’s role during the United States-Mexican War (1846-1848), following annexation of Texas by the U.S., and the American Civil War comes alive at the Walk of Generals. It consists of 21 medallions set in sidewalks surrounding the lighthouse that commemorate military men who served and fought in the area during those conflicts. Among the men so honored are Generals Thomas (Stonewall) Jackson, Robert E. Lee, Ulysses S. Grant and Zachary Taylor (12th President of the Unites States).

Local art scene Both Port Isabel and SPI also lay claim to being art appreciation destinations, though

Philadelphia From page 17 gigantic cheese steaks. The worse that can happen is a good case of heartburn and a grease-stained shirt — the mark of a genuine, fully-fledged Philly flâneur.

If you go Amtrak trains run frequently from D.C. to Philly for as little as $30 each way. Or you can drive up I-95 in about two hours. How-

M AY 2 0 2 2 — B A L T I M O R E B E A C O N

in a non-traditional way. Any flat surface inside or outside a shop, restaurant, home or other building can serve as a palette for paintings, usually depicting sea life. There are two “trails” that visitors may follow. The Sea Turtle Art Trail leads to 10 colorfully painted Fiberglass replicas of those reptiles as they’ve never been seen before. The largest, named Tank, covers the entire front of a building. Images on Miracle’s shell depict the challenges of turtle life, from emerging as hatchlings to avoiding predators in the deep oceans. More than two dozen sandy creations comprise the Sandcastle Art Trail, supporting SPI’s claim as Sandcastle Capital of the World. Along with traditional castles, the creations include a singing mermaid and wildlife (such as pelican, alligator and dolphin) that frequent the area. In addition, a tent-like structure called the Sandcastle Village houses an eclectic ever, parking and congestion on the narrow streets can be expensive and annoying. We booked Cobblestone Street Sanctuary, a one-bedroom apartment with a fully stocked kitchen in the heart of Society Hill, through Airbnb for $125 per night plus fees. For something more conventional, try the Philadelphia Marriott Old City near the major historic sites. Rates start at $218/night. As for restaurants, try these: Southwark — an excellent neighborhood restaurant and classic tavern in the

Flights from Washington, D.C. or BWI to Harlingen, Texas, start at $430 on Southwest Airlines. The Harlingen airport is about an hour from the coast, as is the Brownsville airport. Accommodations include the selection expected at a beach resort destination. Typical of the budget hotels in SPI is La Copa Inn, a beachfront property with a pool, restaurant and fitness room. Rates begin at $90; lacoparesort.com.

Fyllis and I opted for a three-bedroom Airbnb condo with a full kitchen, balcony and use of a swimming pool shared with occupants of the three other condos nearby. Many restaurants in SPI and Port Isabel are similar in decor (casual) and menus (lengthy). Ceviche is a common appetizer, sometimes touted as the best in SPI, all of Texas and the world. Many seafood restaurants offer to “cook your catch” for reasonable prices. Because entrees, like Texas, are oversized, Fyllis and I usually shared one and, at times, an appetizer, which was enough for two hungry people. Jake’s Restaurant is a typical local eatery which has been “serving fun since 1982.” Specialties include fish, shrimp, oyster and chicken baskets with sides ($10.95-$12.95) and a bountiful seafood platter with sides ($23.95); Jakesspi.com. For more information visit sopadre.com and portisabel-texas.com.

heart of Queen Village specializing in farm-to-table American cuisine. Famous 4th Street Delicatessen — a hundred-year-old deli in the heart of Queen Village serving the thickest pastrami sandwich I have ever eaten outside of New York. Jim’s Steaks — Monster cheesesteak sandwiches on South Street. Typical Philadelphia attitude: “Order and move on.” The food is worth the attitude. Zahav — A modern Israeli restaurant that has earned worldwide praise and a

James Beard award for the chef. Possibly the best meal I have ever eaten. It’s a difficult reservation to get, but persistence will be well rewarded. Le Virtù — Outstanding Italian restaurant on Passyunk (pronounced “Pashyunk” by the locals) Avenue in South Philly near the Italian Market. Marrakesh — an excellent, inexpensive Moroccan restaurant located in Society Hill for almost 50 years. For more information see visitphilly.com.

collection of works. Santa stands not far from Neptune; an enormous butterfly dwarfs a nearby iguana. If seeing sand animals isn’t your thing, perhaps world-class fishing or relaxing on celebrated beaches is. They’re among the many treats that await those who visit SPI and Port Isabel, Texas, a welcome wonderland in any season.

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Our cover story about WBJC’s Judith Krummeck continues on page 20.

TV series on Baltimore’s crooked cops show based on it,” Simon told Fenton.

Authentic advisors Co-creator Pelecanos told the Beacon: “Justin Fenton’s book provided us with an excellent blueprint for the series.” Pelecanos, award-winning author of more than 20 crime novels set in and around D.C., added that, while shooting the TV series, “We had police technical advisors every day. “We met many people who had dealt with these particular [corrupt] police officers firsthand. The interactions we had with Baltimoreans were invaluable” in making the series, he said. “We are always trying to answer the ‘why’ of the situation,” Pelecanos said of his TV work on the Baltimore crime scene. “In this case, what is it about the system that allows a squad of police officers to do a good job of getting guns off the street while at the same time violating the rights of citizens?” In a recent column in the Washington Post, ESPN senior writer Michel A. Fletcher, writing about Fenton’s book, noted: “One of the culprits that emerges from the book is the war on drugs itself. The huge amount of money washing around in the trade is a corrupting force that attracts a seemingly inexhaustible stream of players… “At the same time, the cops who are called on to keep order frequently behave like a callous, occupying force and, all too often, the money corrupts them, too.”

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

Radio Flea Market Heard every Sunday, 7-8:00 a.m. on 680 WCBM

By Robert Friedman The Baltimore police are on the move, invading the home of a known drug dealer, pushing the woman of the house aside, laying out the dealer, finding his mountains of cash and tossing the packs of money to each other — for their own keeping. That’s in the opening TV chapter of “We Own This City,” the new HBO series about crooked cops in Baltimore in and around the year 2015. The series gets underway April 25, bringing back to the home screen the dramatic skills of “The Wire” creators, Davis Simon and George Pelecanos. The six-part mini-series will be run weekly in a single season, each program one-hour long. The series is based on the nonfiction book We Own This City by former Baltimore Sun crime reporter Justin Fenton. The book follows the rise and fall of the Baltimore Police Department’s Gun Trace Task Force, as well as the police killing of Baltimore citizen Freddie Gray, the protests that followed, and subsequent investigations. Fenton had been covering crime since he went to work for the Baltimore paper in 2008. (He now works at the Baltimore Banner, a startup nonprofit digital newspaper.) He said that he wrote the book at the suggestion of former Sun reporter Simon. “David Simon reached out to me and said, ‘You should write a book’” about the corrupt task force that Fenton had been reporting on. “If you do, we can make a

Bestselling author George Pelecanos (left) and television producer David Simon teamed up to produce a new six-episode series for HBO about corruption in the Baltimore police force. The series, which premieres on April 25, is based on the book by Baltimore Sun reporter Justin Fenton about the Baltimore Police Department’s Gun Trace Task Force.

The TV series based on Fenton’s book focuses on the elite nine-member task force whose job was to get guns and drugs off the streets of the city. But the supposed good guys turned out to be bad guys, too.

An investigation found that, for more than a decade, rotating members of the force had been committing such crimes as See HBO, page 21

Arts & Style | Subscribe online! See how on p. 22

Radio host From page 1 was tough, she admitted. “Technical stuff was really terrifying,” she said. “I had never operated a [control] board before. I needed two weeks’ training.” However, station managers had a different timetable. “I had three days. I was plunged on the air on the fourth day. Of course, things went wrong.” What does an experienced radio broadcaster do while the music is playing? Krummeck dispelled the myth that announcers simply sit back with their feet up, hitting the on-air button. “I am so busy!” she said, explaining, “I am compiling half-hourly newscasts dur-

ing the peak hour of drivetime. I am programming ahead for the next day. Once the playlist is finished, I am pulling my CDs for the next day’s shift.” Then there are emails to answer and social media-related assignments she tends to. “It’s pretty hectic.” Along with her daily radio program, Krummeck hosts Book Notes on the station, a twice-monthly feature where she interviews an array of local and national authors covering all genres. Her personal web page, a refreshingly subdued affair, is peppered with her bitesized reflections. Her site also features dates of Krummeck’s public appearances at book stores, concerts and beyond. There’s also news about conversations

ANSWERS TO CROSSWORD

FROM PAGE 22 ANSWERS TO SCRABBLE

M AY 2 0 2 2 — B A L T I M O R E B E A C O N

S A G A

A L A S

D O N T B E

I T C H E S

T I A R T A

R I N D

I N J U R P Y H O S E A B L E J M E I D X I

S E A L I O N P O T U S

P U P L A O U R I N S O W A S H E D

A P R S

V O O D O T O A N I G O N O U O T A D A R E R I E Y A D

E N T I C E N O T E D

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

with notable figures like James Conlon, the artistic advisor of the Baltimore Symphony.

Gifted writer Nearly a quarter-century in Charm City has seen Krummeck digging deeper into her vault of innermost thoughts. One goal she folded into an already chockablock schedule was to pursue a Master of Fine Arts degree at the University of Baltimore, which she earned in 2014. Marion Winik teaches the creative nonfiction course there. Krummeck, she recalled, was “such a lively and unusual person. Her whole manner, her elegant accent. She’s a very gifted writer. She’s very kind and gives classmates her support. She’s also very determined.” The thesis topic assigned for graduation required students to self-publish a book of creative nonfiction. “They had to design, market and arrange [their book] for printing,” Winik explained. Krummeck published Beyond the Baobab, her collection of essays chronicling the triumphs and the travails she encountered as a newly minted American. Energized by the acclaim generated by her debut book (Writer’s Digest called it “an excellent read”), Krummeck followed up in 2019 with Old New Worlds — a biographical memoir that colorfully knits immigrant accounts of “my great-great grandmother from England to Africa, and mine from Africa to America almost 200 years later.”

When asked her preference if she had to make a choice between radio and writing, Krummeck, with a softly measured cadence, put a finer point on it. “If I absolutely had to choose, I would choose writing because I could do that for the rest of my life, and it holds so many challenges for me still.” All the same, she made certain to layer her sentiment with a sense of balance. “I find working concurrently in the media of the spoken word and written word a wonderfully complementary combination.” In her years living, working and playing in Baltimore, Krummeck has nurtured a deep fondness for its people, vintage rowhouses, world-class museums and majorleague symphony orchestra. Nevertheless, despite the horrors of apartheid, her native soil occupies center stage. “Cape Town is still my soul city,” she said, her comforting, signature vocalese dripping in each syllable. “It’s the smells, the lights, the people. It’s absolutely in my blood.” In May, Krummeck will make two public appearances. On Fri., May 13 at 6 p.m., she will be a panelist at Greedy Reads: The Lost Weekend, speaking about the book, If You Love Baltimore, It Will Love You Back by Ron Cassie. On Sun., May 15, at 4:30 p.m., Krummeck and composer James Lee III will host a preconcert discussion before the Shriver Hall Concert Series at Johns Hopkins’ main campus.

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B A L T I M O R E B E A C O N — M AY 2 0 2 2

Letters to editor From page 2 should never be enough to be the winner of the election. Thanks for your editorial. These are efforts which could lead to more moderate people from either direction being the winners. Maybe they would actually work together. Any change of getting these ideas passed? Hollis Jackson Baltimore, MD Dear Editor: Your comments appear to lump voters into three categories: Democrats, Republicans and Independents. “Independent” identifies a voter as non-Democratic and non-Republican but has become a catch-all term for a number of genuine alternatives.

HBO From page 19 armed robbery of suspected drug dealers, keeping the stolen money, and illegally selling the drugs. In addition, they were planting evidence, initiating reckless car chases that, at least once, turned fatal, and even collecting overtime pay while they were on vacation.

Filmed in Baltimore The television series, which was filmed

The Libertarian Party and the Green Party run on the general ballot and often have restricted primaries within their own memberships. The Bread and Roses Party that ran on the 2020 ballot (now disbanded) had just one candidate and no need for a primary. Beyond those, a voter might still be truly “independent” of course, holding to an ideology such as communism, anarchy or any position the others chose not to push. In the early days of the country, Whigs and Democratic-Republicans were the majors. Today’s Republican Party was once small. Greens have become major in several European countries. A multi-party system would be good for America. Kenneth Kepler Columbia, MD Dear Editor: It’s a shame parents don’t want to discipline their children [so that] grandparents last fall in Baltimore, was directed by Reinaldo Marcus Green, who also directed, among other films, “King Richard” — the movie about the family of tennis-playing sisters, Venus and Serena Williams — which was nominated for six Academy Awards. “We Own This City” stars Jon Bernthal as Sgt. Wayne Jenkins, the former leader of the Gun Trace Task Force. Jenkins, one of the eight task force members found guilty in 2017 of federal racketeering charges, is serving 25 years in prison.

and great-grandparents end up taking over. All laws on the books should be obeyed. If certain people are soft on crime and don’t like a law, put that law to a vote. We need to use whatever money allotted to us to enforce our laws, support our police and

add to our law enforcement by giving them more money and more encouragement. I support Gov. Hogan’s two new (old) bills and I think they both are no brainers! Susan Rose Reisterstown, MD

BEACON BITS

May 5

MLK ARTISTIC CELEBRATION

The MLK Artistic Celebration at the Walters Art Museum takes place Thurs., May 5 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Poet Kondwani Fidel will share new work accompanied by musician John Tyler and guests Akilah Divine, APoetNamedNate, Kooz, Zyaa, HLVII KIRA, Black Assets and Eddie Vanz. To register for this free event, visit thewalters.org/event/mlk-2022.

May 7

SEE SCULPTURES RACE!

Watch ordinary people race over land, water, sand and mud in human-powered, artful contraptions on Sat., May 7 beginning with opening ceremonies at the American Visionary Art Museum at 9:30 a.m. The event concludes at the Museum with an awards ceremony from 6 to 7 p.m. For more information, visit bit.ly/SculptureRace or call (410) 244-1900.

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M AY 2 0 2 2 — B A L T I M O R E B E A C O N

Crossword Puzzle Find a new crossword every day on our website at www.TheBeaconNewspapers.com/puzzles. Instant Oats 1

By Stephen Sherr 5

35 38

46 50

54 61

41 45

57 63

Across 1. Offerings at an Indian clothing stare 6. Create a bike path 10. Bog down 14. Wedding gown style 15. ___ the Roof (Drifters classic co-written by Carole King) 16. More than 21, in blackjack 17. Drug taxed by the British in 1856 18. Early model 20. Without any pizzazz 22. Site of the 2016 Olympics 23. Natl. Bat Appreciation Month 24. Donkey 27. Proceed cautiously 33. On the House, or Off the Hook, briefly 34. Columbus’ favorite ship 35. Eagle’s nest 36. Sergeants and corporals 38. ___-law (such as Meathead to Archie) 41. Whip mark 42. US news org. since 1846 44. Blunder 46. Sense of Humor, in personal ads 47. Totally defeated 51. Dir. from Ft. Myers to Ft. Lauderdale 52. Chinese “way” 53. Make an incorrect ruling 54. How to prepare instant oatmeal (or solve this puzzle) 60. Vacation property 63. Acid in proteins 64. Like Las Vegas and Tatooine 65. New York canal with 35 locks 66. Tears to pieces 67. Lift to the airport 68. Twosome (such as a 31 Down) 69. Sprinkle on the vinaigrette BB522

Scrabble answers on p. 20.

22 27

Down 1. War and Peace, for example

2. “Oh dear!” 3. Drink garnish 4. An insult makes it worse 5. Fisherman’s Wharf sunbather 6. Insect stage 7. Car loan figs. 8. Spooky curse 9. Offer a carrot 10. Closet pest 11. Brown league 12. Member of the AFL-CIO leadership 13. Before, poetically 19. Roman port that is an anagram for IOTAS 21. Name of 18 French kings 24. Motionless 25. Site of an early Civil War battle 26. Boil with rage 27. “___ such a pushover” 28. Penalties from poison plants 29. One of the Friends 30. End of an INFERNO 31. Dance in Evita and Rent 32. One of the Testaments 37. Gal of song 39. Promise to pay 40. Prominent 43. Denizen of Pennsylvania Ave. 45. Book section usually paginated with Roman numerals 48. Ready to be returned to the wardrobe 49. Witness to a signature 50. Constitution co-writer 54. Users of the Force 55. Diva’s solo 56. Title : Car :: ___ : House 57. Pitchfork part 58. Gets to the closing credits 59. Another one of the Friends 60. Make lace 61. Good name for a financial planner 62. Trail ___

Answers on page 20.

Makes a great gift! | Arts & Style

B A L T I M O R E B E A C O N — M AY 2 0 2 2

CLASSIFIEDS The Beacon prints classified advertising under the following headings: Business & Employment Opportunities; Caregivers; Computer Services; Entertainment; For Sale; For Sale/Rent: Real Estate; Free; Health; Home/ Handyman Services; Miscellaneous; Personals; Personal Services; Vacation Opportunities; and Wanted. For submission guidelines and deadlines, see the box on the right. CAVEAT EMPTOR! The Beacon does not knowingly accept obscene, offensive, harmful, or fraudulent advertising. However, we do not investigate any advertisers or their products and cannot accept responsibility for the integrity of either. Respondents to classified advertising should always use caution and their best judgment. EMPLOYMENT & REAL ESTATE ADS: We will not knowingly or intentionally accept advertising in violation of federal, state, and local laws prohibiting discrimination based on race, color, national origin, sex, familial status or handicap in connection with employment or the sale or rental of real estate.

Caregivers LION AND LAMB TRANSPORTATION. Wheelchair Transportation for senior living, social events, doctors’ appointments, outpatient surgery, etc. Servicing Baltimore & Harford Counties. Call Jeana Morris 410-692-7587 CAREGIVER 24 YEARS EXPERIENCE. Competent, wise, kind, humorous, jewish, psych & law degrees. North Baltimore area. Michael 410-486-2758 THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE HOME! Jamhuri Healthcare Services recognizes the importance of keeping seniors or adults with special needs, in their homes, rather than sending them to a skilled nursing facility. Our personal in-home care program is designed to implement non-medical tasks to meet the clients’ physical needs. Our home care aides provide a multitude of services for our clients, ranging from meal preparation & house cleaning to personal assistance & running errands. We are diligent in our staff & client pairings. We won’t put just anyone in your home or the home of your loved ones. Senior transportation services available 24/7. Call us toll-free at 1800-547-2851.Visit us on the web: www.jamhuricares.com. send us a text at: 443-929-9769 MATURE, EXPERIENCED KIND, CAREGIVER/COMPANION. Available up to 32 hrs/week. Cooking, bathing, meds, transportation, errands. Call or text 410-925-4501

Computer Services TECH COACHING ON PC, MAC, SMARTPHONE, TABLET, ETC. Patient, Practical & Personable. Tuning into your needs & guiding you to comfort & confidence. Complete beginner or want to learn more, call Julia: 443-436-2612, www.computercoachbaltimore.weebly.com

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

For Sale DOUBLE CRYPT TIER 4 EAST (95-137), Garden of Sermon on The Mount, Annapolis Memorial Gardens, 814 Bestgate Rd, Annapolis, MD. Sell for $8,000/Best Offer. Frances 410353-0111/fe_miller@hotmail.com PUT ON YOUR TV EARS and hear TV with unmatched clarity. TV Ears Original were originally $129.95 - NOW WITH THIS SPECIAL OFFER are only $59.95 with code MCB59! Call 1-833-934-0843. 2001 ACURA INTEGRA: AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION. 4 good tires, no major problems. AM/FM radio, CD player, cassette player, A/C, electric moon roof, ABS brakes. Runs on regular gas, no recalls, asking $1800. Call 410882-4295. GENERAC STANDBY GENERATORS provide backup power during utility power outages, so your home and family stay safe and comfortable. Prepare now. Free 7-year extended warranty ($695 value!). Request a free quote today! Call for additional terms and conditions. 1-866-964-8106.

Health ARE YOU STRUGGLING TO HEAR, LISTEN, and/or communicate? Are conversations frustrating for you? Do you have hearing loss? “ASA Speech-Language-Hearing Therapies” provides listening training, lipreading/speechreading training, as well as strategies for communication which can support/enhance your abilities. Antoinette Allen, CCC-SLP is a certified and licensed speech-language pathologist who has provided aural rehabilitation/listening/communication therapy services to hard-of-hearing, deaf, and Deaf adults for 35 years. If you (or a loved one) have hearing loss and seek a provider who combines expert knowledge with sensitive and compassionate care, we are here to assist/support. Feel free to contact us at asallen@asahearingtherapies.com DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 350 plus procedures. Real dental insurance - NOT just a discount plan. Do not wait! Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details! 1-844366-1003 www.dental50plus.com/320 #6258. MOBILEHELP, America’s Premier Mobile Medical Alert System. Whether You’re Home or Away. For Safety and Peace of Mind. No Long Term Contracts! Free Brochure! Call Today! 1240-650-9189. PORTABLE OXYGEN CONCENTRATOR May Be Covered by Medicare! Reclaim independence and mobility with the compact design and long-lasting battery of Inogen One. Free information kit! Call 855-851-0949.

Events

Home/Handyman Services

KENTUCKY DERBY WATCH PARTY, Saturday, May 7th, 2022, 4:30 until 8:30 P.M. Knights of Columbus, Bethlehem Council, #2605, 7401 Bay Front, Rd., Edgemere, Md., 21219, Reservations required, 410-477-5225, $25. per person, Southern inspired menu, Mint Juleps and Mimosas, Dress in your Derby best.

THE BATHROOM OF YOUR DREAMS for as little as $149/month! BCI Bath & Shower. Many options available. Quality materials & professional installation. Senior & Military Discounts Available. Limited Time Offer - FREE virtual in-home consultation now and SAVE 15%! Call Today! 1-855-653-0087.

HOW TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED AD All classified ads must be submitted and paid for online, via our website, www.thebeaconnewspapers.com/classifieds Deadlines and Payments: To appear in the next issue, your ad text and payment must be entered by the 5th of the preceding month (for Baltimore and Howard County editions); by the 20th (for Washington and Richmond editions). Cost will be based on the number of characters and spaces in your ad: • $25 for 1-250 • $35 for 251-500. • $50 for 501-750 (maximum length). The website will calculate this for you. Note: Maryland contractors must provide a valid MHIC number. • Each real estate listing qualifies as one ad. • All ads are subject to publisher's discretion. Payment will be refunded if unacceptable for any reason.

To place your classified ad, visit www.thebeaconnewspapers.com/classifieds Home/Handyman Services

Personals

DON’T LET THE STAIRS LIMIT YOUR MOBILITY! Discover the ideal solution for anyone who struggles on the stairs, is concerned about a fall or wants to regain access to their entire home. Call AmeriGlide today! 1866-365-5170.

SINGLE, ATTRACTIVE, PETITE, AA FEMALE seeking male companion 55-65 years of age. Seeking physically and socially active male. Would like to meet for coffee and conversation. Phone 410-404-8834. Ask for DeDe.

AXS TILE: Repair Ceramic, Porcelain, Marble, Granit Tile. Stone Brick work. Repair leaking showers and basic plumbing work. New Bathroom Installation and Design. Kitchen backsplash and Countertops. Drywall plaster repair. Handyman Services. Please call 410-977-3610, or 410-285-5452. Email: axstile@yahoo.com. AXS Tile Construction Services, Inc. MHIC #115085

TV/Cable

DIAMOND PAINTING COMPANY INC. In business for over 30 years. Interior and exterior residential painting, for Baltimore & Harford Counties. MHIC 39570. Call Tom Morris at 410692-7586

DISH NETWORK. $64.99 for 190 Channels! Blazing Fast Internet, $19.99/mo. (where available.) Switch & Get a FREE $100 Visa Gift Card. FREE Voice Remote. FREE HD DVR. FREE Streaming on ALL Devices. Call today! 1-844-560-5837. DIRECTV for $79.99/mo for 12 months with CHOICE Package. Watch your favorite live sports, news & entertainment anywhere. First 3 months of HBO Max, Cinemax, Showtime, Starz and Epix included! Directv is #1 in Customer Satisfaction (JD Power & Assoc.) Some restrictions apply. Call 1-888-572-4953.

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

Miscellaneous REALTOR SPECIALIZING IN SENIOR HOME SALES. I’m a preferred agent for several retirement communities & a regular speaker at the 50+ centers & county libraries on topics like how to get the highest home price, preparing your home for sale, decluttering tips, & retirement community options. I will be with you every step of the way as we go through the process of SELLING YOUR HOME. CALL ME—KAREN GATZKE, RE/MAX Solutions, 410-218-0578 (preferred #); karengatzke@remax.net. Office-410-747-2800. SAVE BIG, SHOP & GET CASH BACK on Gas, Restaurants, Entertainments, Save on Medical Rx, etc. Get Credit for ALL Your Receipts and Save even MORE. This is Amazing Must See! Low Cost! Go to www.SaveShopandEarn.com I WILL BUY YOUR UNWANTED REAL ESTATE for CASH! AS IS! No repairs, inspections and no Realtors Fees or Closing Fees! No need to clean the house out, take what you want and leave the rest! You can have your MONEY in 14 DAYS! CALL NEAL for your cash offer now! 410-419-1289.

BUYING VINYL RECORDS from 1950 to 1990 JAZZ, ROCK, BLUES, R&B, DISCO, SOUL, REGGAE, & GOSPEL, ANY VINYL FORMAT 33 1/3 RPM Albums, small 45 RPM’s & some 78 RPM, Also CD’s, Prefer LARGER COLLECTIONS AT LEAST 100 items, PLEASE CALL JOHN 301-596-6201 COLLECTOR PAYING CASH FOR COMIC BOOKS! from the 1940s to the 2000s. So check your attic and your closets and let me know if have any you would like to sell! Call or text Joe at 443562-8082 or by email: joebuyscomics@gmail.com. CASH FOR ESTATES; I buy a wide range of items. jewelry, silver, art, rugs, cultural items, collections, etc. Buy out/clean up. Gary: 301520-0755. Website: theatticllc.com. I have my own trucks, my own crew & insurance. WANTED OLD MOTORCYCLES: 1970’s & Older. Any condition good or bad. Buying AS IS paying CASH & PICKING UP. Kawasaki Norton Honda Triumph BMW Yamaha Harley BSA Suzuki Indian Etc. Call for CASH offer 1(800)220-9683, WEBSITE: www.wantedoldmotorcycles.com

Thanks for reading the Beacon!

Advertiser Index Accessibility & Home Remodeling

Renovation Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

Career Opportunities

Beacon Inside Salesperson . . . . . . . . . .21

Clinical Research Studies

Balance & Memory Study . . . . . . . . . . .11 HIPS Fall Prevention Study . . . . . . . . .10

Financial Services

John Richardson Insurance . . . . . . . . . .15

Funeral Services

Cremation Society of Maryland . . . . . .13 MacNabb Funeral Home . . . . . . . . . . . .13

Government Services

Maryland Relay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

Health

Apex Neuropathy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Greenspring Podiatry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Keswick Wise & Well . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Home Health Care/ Companion Services

Absolute Care Services LLC . . . . . . . . . .8 Options for Senior America . . . . . . . . .17

Housing

Charlestown/Erickson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Christ Church Harbor Apts . . . . . . . . . .14 Enterprise Residential . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 Oak Crest/Erickson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

Park View Apartments . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 Pickersgill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 St. Mary’s Roland View Towers . . . . . .10 Virginia Towers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Warren Place . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation

ProMedica . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Tender Care Nursing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

Subscriptions

Real Estate

Beacon Newspapers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22

Retail

Computer Doctors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 TechMedic4u . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

Renovation Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 Perfect Sleep Chair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Radio Flea Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 So-Lite Glide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 So-Lite Scooter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 Zinger Chair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20

Technology

Theater/Entertainment

The Lyric/Glenn Miller Orchestra . . . . .21 Toby’s Dinner Theatre . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

Travel Eyre Tour & Travel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 Superior Tours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

M AY 2 0 2 2 — B A L T I M O R E B E A C O N

Subscribe online! See how on p. 22

ALL-NEW mobility technology

Introducing the world’s lightest mobility scooter with anti-tip technology The So Lite Scooter is easy to transport and almost impossible to tip over. TM

Like millions of older Americans, I struggle with mobility. For years, I watched my quality of life slip away, as I was forced to stay home while friends and family took part in activities I’d once enjoyed. I thought I’d made some progress when I got a mobility scooter, but then I realized how hard it was to transport. Taking it apart and putting it back together was like doing a jigsaw puzzle. Once I had it disassembled, I had to try to put all of the pieces in the trunk of a car, go to wherever I was going, and repeat the process in reverse. Travel scooters were easier to transport, but they were uncomfortable and scary to drive, I always felt like I was ready to tip over. Then I found the So LiteTM Scooter. Now there’s nothing that can hold me back. Years of work by innovative engineers have resulted in a scooter that’s designed with seniors in mind. They created Electronic Stability Control (ESC) that makes it virtually impossible to tip over. If you try to turn too quickly, the scooter automatically slows down to prevent it from tipping over. The battery provides powerful energy at a fraction of the weight of most batteries. With its rugged yet lightweight aluminum frame, the So LiteTM Scooter is the most portable scooter ever—but it can hold up to 265 pounds—yet weighs only 40.8 pounds without the battery! What’s more, it easily folds up for storage in a car seat, trunk or even on an airplane.

Why a So Lite Scooter is better: TM

• Latest “No-Tip” Technology • Lightweight yet durable

• Folds and locks in seconds • Easier to operate

It folds in seconds without tools and is safe and reliable. Best of all, it’s designed with your safety in mind, from the newest technology and superior craftsmanship. Why spend another day letting your lack of mobility ruin your quality of life? Call now and find out how you can get a So LiteTM Scooter of your very own.

The So Lite Scooter TM

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Exclusive Electronic Stability Control helps prevent tipping