June 2021 | Howard County Beacon

The Howard County

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More than 30,000 readers throughout Howard County

Mentors help students grow

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PHOTO COURTESY OF A-OK MENTORING

By Catherine Brown Two decades ago, pediatric social worker Chaya Kaplan met an 8-year-old boy who became a lifelong friend. “T.B.” was a student she tutored through a program for disadvantaged children run by the Howard County Public School System and the Department of Social Services. He was one of eight children being raised by his grandmother.

“I tutored/mentored T.B. weekly for about five years, and, with his grandmother’s permission, took him on trips to D.C. I was taking with my own children,” Kaplan, now 80, said in an email to the Beacon. “We stayed in touch over the years, and eventually my husband and I were invited to his wedding.”

The opportunity to build a lifelong relationship with a student helped Kaplan, a Columbia resident, realize that many elementary and middle school students in Howard County could benefit from a mentor, whether in group academic tutoring or just positive, one-on-one interactions to help students develop confidence and self-esteem.

“I could see the value of the intervention,” Kaplan said, “and I decided — with the support of interested members of the Howard County School System, the Howard County Department of Social Services and at times the Howard County Police Department — to continue supporting mentoring for many years.”

Together with Joseph Willmott, Kaplan started A-OK Mentoring-Tutoring in 2003, initially as a community service project through the Oakland Mills Interfaith Center. (A-OK stands for “Assist Our Kids”.)

Later Kaplan and Willmott took over running A-OK on their own as an all-volunteer organization.

In 2009 the Howard County school system wanted to formalize their partnership with A-OK, so Kaplan took it from a small

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Celebrate a return to normal in Nashville, where live outdoor concerts, museums, parks and eateries are thriving; plus, visit these gorgeous gardens in our region page 20

A-OK Mentoring pairs volunteers like Bob Miller, above, with Howard County students for a weekly one-hour mentoring session that focuses on self-esteem in addition to academics. During the pandemic, mentors reached their students via Zoom.

volunteer-run organization to a formal nonprofit. She served as executive director until she retired in 2015.

The organization’s essential mission,

then and now, is to build strong relationships between the mentor and student that See TUTORING, page 25

ARTS & STYLE

Maryland author’s children’s book lands a spot on Fergie’s storytime show page 23 FITNESS & HEALTH 4 k Is Alzheimer’s linked to pollution? k Five ways to control pain LAW & MONEY 16 k Overcome fear of retirement k Paper tax return snafus k How to get a free credit report ADVERTISER DIRECTORY

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Guest columnist [While our publisher is on a brief sabbati- simply said, “That’s just how it was.” cal, in lieu of our regular “From the PublishI admired the two of them not only for er” column we will be having their strength but for their deguest writers. This month’s light in life — the way they still guest column is written by the flirted in the kitchen, when Beacon’s managing editor.] they thought they were out of Old age is a gift. As Mark earshot, and the way they enTwain put it, “Do not comjoyed all-you-can-eat buffets. plain about growing old. It is Most of all, I admired their a privilege denied to many.” hope. They still planned for I’m grateful for every wrinthe future, keeping up the kle and insight that comes house they owned for 50 years with another year. I’m grateand sprucing up their yard. ful, too, for the older people They were engaged with life. I AS I SEE IT in my life who showed me watched my grandfather, then

By Margaret Foster how to age well. What they all in his late 80s, plant a crepe have in common, I’ve found, myrtle in his back yard, both is something akin to hope — and some- of us knowing that the tree would outlast thing more: a love of life itself. him. He planted the tree anyway, leaving his My grandparents met at a USO dance; yard a better place for the next family. he was a U.S. Army sergeant, she a nurse.

My grandparents on my father’s side Both stationed in England before D-Day, demonstrated that retirement is the time they were married in a small church with to see the world. From their home in Ohio only two witnesses: the janitor and the they planned exciting trips to Japan, India, priest. After the wedding, my grandfather the Philippines and Italy. When they refought in Europe, and his new bride re- turned, we’d sit on the “davenport” togethturned home to Baltimore, where my er, poring over their slides and snapshots mother was born. When I asked my grand- from each adventure. My affable grandfamother what it was like not to know if her ther, also a WWII veteran, enjoyed striking husband would return from the war, she up conversations wherever he went. He

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The Beacon is a monthly newspaper dedicated to inform, serve, and entertain the citizens of the Greater Baltimore area, and is privately owned. Other editions serve Howard County, Md., Greater Washington, DC and Richmond, Va. (Fifty Plus).

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Publication of advertising contained herein does not necessarily constitute endorsement. Signed columns represent the opinions of the writers, and not necessarily the opinion of the publisher.

Publisher/Editor – Stuart P. Rosenthal President/Associate Publisher – Judith K. Rosenthal Executive Vice President – Gordon Hasenei Managing Editor – Margaret Foster Art Director – Kyle Gregory Director of Operations – Roger King

could quote the Japanese man he shared a park bench with or the Irish farmer who gave him directions.

Inspired by photographs of my grandmother feeding the pigeons in Venice, I bought a ticket to Italy and stood in the same square. When I retire, I’ll use that time to see more of the world — and to meet people, like my grandfather did.

My husband’s grandparents, too, were an inspiration. From those two New Yorkers I saw that selling the family home can be liberating. In their 70s they decided to move from Long Island to an oceanfront condo in Rockaway Beach, Queens. Because they weren’t far from a New York City subway station, they ditched their cars and walked everywhere, exploring the city in ways they couldn’t when they were working and raising a family.

“Every day is like a diamond,” she said to me once, still thrilled with each morning’s possibilities.

Every week, they’d take the subway to Times Square or Lincoln Center to see a show or concert, reporting back to us excitedly, sometimes line by line. They wanted to see every new movie, read every new book, and keep up with the pace of life. They thrived in the city, happy just to be alive.

Now my own parents are aging, and my friends’ parents, too. Some have decided to settle in their longtime homes to stay close to friends. Of course, they maintain the house and garden, like my grandparents

Letters to the editor Readers are encouraged to share their opinion on any matter addressed in the Beacon as well as on political and social issues of the day.

Mail your Letter to the Editor to The Beacon, P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915, or email info@thebeaconnewspapers.com.

Please include your name, address and telephone number for verification.

Dear Editor: My choice for keynote speaker [at your upcoming Expo] would be financial expert Ric Edelman. He explains economics and financial matters in simple, plain terms.

Ric is a practical advisor who doesn’t take

Assistant Editor – Catherine Brown Content Manager – Ashley Griffin

The Beacon, P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915 (410) 248-9101 • Email: info@thebeaconnewspapers.com Submissions:

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political or ideological sides.

The Beacon newspaper is intellectually stimulating and morally uplifting. I love your advice on money, housing and medicine.

Larry Calhoun Capitol Heights, MD

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June 8+

THE CREATIVES CAFÉ

HopeWorks at Howard County hosts a monthly virtual crafting circle. Bring a project you’re working on and make time to connect with other artists. HopeWorks provides programming like these cafés to support those impacted by sexual and intimate partner violence. The Creatives Café meets the second Tuesday of each month from 7 to 9 p.m. You can drop in anytime, but you must register to receive the Zoom details. For more information and to register, visit http://bit.ly/HopeWorksCafes.

Advertising Representatives – Steve Levin, Alan Spiegel

did. Others have found apartments in walkable senior communities with neighbors who host potluck dinners.

But the older adults I admire most are those who are still passionate about life.

Some have found a musical hobby, like my aunt, who taught herself to play the Baroque flute, or the publisher of the Beacon, who is dedicating these months to piano compositions.

Others have decided to eat well, exercise and take care of themselves now, in their 70s, so that they can make it to and enjoy their 90s. I swap recipes with one of those healthy agers, who, after a lifetime of quick meals, now reads books about nutrition, takes long walks on the beach and does yoga. Her lifestyle is a good example for me, a reminder that it’s never too late to take care of yourself.

Others travel the world. One couple will fly to Hawaii when it’s safe to travel; another will take their granddaughter to Bali.

All of them seem to live with hope. They remain engaged with life. They’re still looking forward to that next adventure: still reading the latest books, still playing music, still planting trees.

If I’m lucky enough to have a long life, I intend to do the same.

Please send us your best advice for aging well or, if you prefer, a story about your parents or grandparents. Our contact information is in the green box below. We’d love to hear from you.

Ongoing

JOB SEARCH

Get in touch with employers seeking to hire experienced professionals 50 and over. AARP’s job board provides listings searchable by location with special designations for companies seeking veterans or those committed to hiring people 50 and over. Visit jobs.aarp.org to learn more.

Ongoing

WIDOWED PERSONS OUTREACH The Widowed Persons Outreach offers weekly virtual support groups for widowed persons. For more information, including a schedule, visit wpodc.org.

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — J U N E 2 0 2 1

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J U N E 2 0 2 1 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

Health Fitness &

GOLF GOOFS Learn about ways to avoid wrist pain while golfing, and treatments for injuries SMOKER SCANS Low-dose CT scans are recommended for former high-risk smokers over 50 BEES’ KNEES Enroll in this study to help determine the best knee implant device SUMMER REMINDER The livin’ is easy in summertime, but stay hydrated to avoid kidney stones

Does air pollution lead to Alzheimer’s?

By Andrew E. Budson, M.D., Harvard Health Blog Have you ever spent the day in a city with such bad air pollution that when you blew your nose the mucus had a black tinge? Have you ever coughed as you breathed in diesel fumes from a passing bus and thought to yourself, “Well, that’s a year gone from my life”?

Could it actually be true — that air pollution leads to an early death? The answer, in fact, is an unqualified yes.

Air pollution causes heart and lung disease; early death It has been known for some time that air pollution causes lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, emphysema, asthma, heart disease and stroke. One recent study in China estimated that for those ages 75 and older, there are 1,166 early deaths for every 100,000 people — that’s more than 1%.

But if it doesn’t kill you outright, can air pollution impair your memory and cause dementia in general and Alzheimer’s disease (one cause of dementia) in particular?

Studies link air pollution to cognitive impairment Three studies from three different parts of the world suggest that air pollution might cause cognitive impairment, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

In the first study, researchers from China and the U.S. teamed up to analyze data from China. They found that longterm exposure to air pollution is related to poor performance on both verbal and math tests. Moreover, the poor performance on the verbal tests was more pronounced for older individuals, especially for men and those less educated.

In the second study, researchers in England studied 130,978 adults ages 50 to 79 from 75 medical practices in greater London.

They found that from 2005 to 2013, 2,181 older adults from this sample were diagnosed with dementia: 39% with Alzheimer’s disease, 29% with vascular dementia, and 32% without a specific dementia diagnosis.

Adults living with the highest annual concentration of air pollution had the highest risk of dementia — 1.4 times the risk of those with the lowest annual concentra-

tion. They also found that these associations were more consistent for those given an Alzheimer’s disease diagnosis.

In the third study, published earlier this year, researchers from the United States, including the University of Southern California and Harvard Medical School, studied data from 998 women ages 73 to 87 who had both cognitive tests and MRI scans.

They found that those women who were exposed to higher concentrations of air pollution in the preceding three years showed two differences compared to those who were exposed to less air pollution. Cognitively, those exposed to more air pollution showed greater declines in learning a list of words. Anatomically, they showed more atrophy (shrinkage) in those areas of the brain that typically shrink due to Alzheimer’s disease.

Importantly, in all three studies, the researchers controlled for every possible other factor that they thought might make a difference. For example, in the third study they controlled for: sociodemographic factors (age, geographic region, race/ethnici-

ty, education, income); lifestyle (smoking, alcohol, physical activity); employment status; clinical characteristics (diabetes, high cholesterol, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, hormone therapy); and MRI-measured cerebrovascular disease.

Nonetheless, air pollution may not be the cause of the cognitive decline The first thing to say is that I believe this correlation is real. The fact that three different groups analyzed data from three different continents and came to similar conclusions cannot be due to chance alone.

Thus, I firmly believe that the following statement is true: Higher levels of air pollution are associated with a greater risk of cognitive decline, dementia in general, and Alzheimer’s disease in particular.

However, that is not the same thing as saying that high levels of air pollution cause cognitive decline, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

Air pollution could cause Alzheimer’s disSee AIR POLLUTION, page 5

Mind-body therapies that help ease pain

By Heidi Godman I smashed my elbow recently. There was no bone break, just a bad bruise as a result of slipping in the kitchen and landing on my arm. But at times the pain has been excruciating.

So, I followed doctor’s orders: babying my elbow, icing it, and taking an occasional over-the-counter painkiller. (P.S. I wear sneakers in the kitchen now.)

Something else has helped, too: mindbody therapies. These approaches aim to change our awareness of pain and retrain the way we respond to it. The therapies can help us control pain — such as longlasting back pain — or live with it better.

While these techniques won’t erase pain, they can help change perception of pain intensity through distraction, relaxation and reframing of our thoughts.

Here are five mind-body therapies to consider for pain relief:

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) This talk therapy teaches people to redirect their thoughts, feelings and behaviors

in response to chronic pain.

For example, when a pain flare-up strikes, instead of bracing yourself and thinking, “Oh no, here it comes again,” tell yourself you’ve handled this before, and focus instead on your favorite place in the world: picture it in your mind, and feel how happy or relaxed you are when you’re there. A therapist trained in CBT can train you to hone your skills.

Deep breathing We typically take short little breaths without noticing, especially when we’re in pain. Focusing on breathing and taking deep breaths quiets the mind and induces the relaxation response — a well-studied physiologic response that counteracts the stress response, and may lessen chronic pain severity. To practice deep breathing: —Breathe in slowly through your nose, allowing your chest and lower belly to rise as you fill your lungs completely.

—Now exhale slowly through your mouth or nose.

Practice deep breathing for several minutes.

Meditation Like deep breathing, meditating triggers the relaxation response and may reduce the perception of pain.

You can use many methods to meditate, such as transcendental meditation (repeating a word, phrase or sound to quiet your thoughts); yoga (a series of strengthening and stretching postures combined with breathing techniques); or mindfulness meditation (focusing objectively on negative thoughts as they move through your mind, so you can achieve a state of calm).

Here’s one simple way to meditate: Sit quietly, close your eyes and focus on your breathing. Say a word such as “peace” or “one” each time you exhale.

Don’t worry about thoughts that come to mind; you can come back to them later.

Continue to repeat your word and focus on breathing.

Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) This approach combines mindfulness

meditation and yoga to build awareness and acceptance of moment-to-moment experiences, including pain.

A 2019 study published in the journal Evidence-Based Mental Health found MBSR was just as effective as CBT at reducing pain and depression and improving physical functioning, compared with usual care or no care. You’ll find MBSR programs at hospitals, universities and meditation centers, as well as online videos.

Relaxation Relaxation techniques, such as progressive muscle relaxation, may also help reduce the perception of pain.

To try progressive muscle relaxation, start with your facial muscles and work your way down the body. Tighten each muscle or muscle group for 20 seconds before slowly releasing the contraction. As the muscle relaxes, concentrate on the release of tension and the sensation of relaxation. © 2021 Harvard University. Distributed

by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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ease, and many researchers provided possible mechanisms as to how that might happen. However, it is also possible that air pollution could be linked to some as-of-yet unidentified factor that explains the association.

For example, it has already been fairly well established that some viral illnesses are associated with Alzheimer’s disease. It has also been well established that viral illnesses are more likely to be transmitted when people are gathered together indoors versus outdoors.

So, it may simply be that where there is greater pollution, people are more likely to gather together inside, shut the windows, and trade viruses with each other. The new virus they acquire may be the real cause of the increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease.

Now, that’s just speculation — just an example of how a real association is not the same thing as evidence of causation.

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From page 4

What can you do if you want to reduce air pollution to lower your risk of Alzheimer’s disease?

Directly or indirectly, we are all responsible for the air pollution in our cities, our country and our planet. We should each do what we can to reduce our carbon footprint.

We can work to reuse and recycle materials so that factories don’t need to produce as much. We can buy local foods that don’t need to be trucked across the country and shipped around the world. We can walk and bike instead of driving our cars (and, once we’re done with COVID-19, carpool and take public transportation).

Lastly, we can elect public officials who will advocate for local, national and international policy to reduce pollution. Those are just some of the things that we can do to clear the air.

Andrew E. Budson, M.D., is a contributor to Harvard Health Publications. © 2021 Harvard University. Distributed

by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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J U N E 2 0 2 1 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

Reasons golfing may cause wrist pain

By Sanjeev Kakar, M.D. Dear Mayo Clinic: I golf about three to four times a week and have been doing so for the last two years.

Lately, though, I’ve been experiencing pain in my wrists that makes golfing extremely uncomfortable.

A friend of mine had similar symptoms, and he ended up having surger y to treat tendinitis. Is there a way to reduce the pain that does not require surger y?

A: Wrist injuries can occur in people who play golf often, and can be due to overuse, poor mechanics or trauma. The right treatment depends on the underlying cause. The good news is that for most people with the type of wrist pain you describe, surgery is rarely needed.

Many golfing-related wrist injuries are a result of overuse — particularly in recreational golfers who may take a break during the winter months and then play a lot during warmer months.

For example, some golfers may go to the driving range and hit 200 balls in one session, or they may start playing several rounds of golf a week after being off the green for several months. Both situations could lead to wrist injuries.

Some wrist issues may be the result of poor mechanics. For example, if a golfer is swinging the club inappropriately or “casting” the club, it could lead to pain at the back of the wrist due to injury to a tendon called the extensor carpi ulnaris. In time, that can result in chronic wrist pain.

Wrist injuries also can come from some type of trauma. A golfer may be playing in the rough, for example, swing hard and catch the club in the long grass or the root of a tree. That can twist the wrists and, depending on the power of the swing, cause serious wrist tendon damage or even break a bone. Similar injuries may happen if a golfer takes a large divot out of the turf or hits a rock or other solid object with a club.

Treatments for wrist pain When wrist pain and swelling first appear, the best steps are to rest the area and put ice on it to bring down the swelling.

Using heat on the injured area can relieve soreness and stiffness too. A compression wrap or a wrist brace also may be helpful.

If you try these home remedies and

symptoms continue for more than a week or the pain continues to worsen, I would recommend seeking medical attention.

Before visiting your healthcare provider, you will want to think about when your symptoms began, how they started, and how long the pain lasts.

This information, along with a physical exam of your wrist, can also help shed light on how the injury may have occurred and determine if tests such as X-rays, ultrasound (USS), computerized tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans are needed to diagnose the problem.

If the condition is tendinitis, it may get better with rest and hand therapy. You may need to wear a wrist brace as well in the short term — even when you are playing golf.

If that’s not enough, an injection may help reduce inflammation in the injured area to allow for healing. If you still continue to have symptoms, surgery may be an option for chronic tendinitis.

Though unlikely, it is possible you could have a fracture or broken bone in your wrist. If this is the case, a cast may be needed to allow the injury to heal, and hand therapy may be necessary.

Depending on the type of broken bone, however, surgery may be needed, and See WRIST PAIN, page 7

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Should you be screened for lung cancer?

By Jim Miller Dear Savvy Senior, What can you tell me about lung cancer screenings? I was a big smoker but quit years ago, so I’m wondering if I should be checked out.

—Former Smoker Dear Former Smoker, Lung cancer screening is used to detect the presence of lung cancer in otherwise healthy people with a high risk of lung cancer.

Should you be screened? It depends on your age and your smoking history. Here’s what you should know.

Screening recommendations The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force — an independent panel of medical experts that advises the government on health policies — recently expanded their recommendations for lung cancer screenings.

They are now recommending annual screenings for high-risk adults between the ages of 50 and 80 who have at least a 20-pack year history and who currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years. This is a change from the 2013 recommendation that referred to patients ages 55 to 80 with 30-year pack histories.

A 20-pack year history is the equivalent of smoking one pack a day for 20 years or two packs a day for 10 years.

In 2020, lung cancer killed more than 135,000 Americans, making it the deadliest of all possible cancers. In fact, more people die of lung cancer than of colon, breast and prostate cancers combined.

Lung cancer also occurs predominantly

Wrist pain From page 6 that’s why meeting a hand surgeon would be important.

To prevent future injury To help prevent future golfing-related wrist injuries, take time to stretch before you play, including your back, legs, arms, elbows and wrists. Also, warm up with some easy practice swings before you begin a round of

in older adults. About two out of every three people diagnosed with lung cancer are 65 or older.

You’ll also be happy to know that most health insurance plans cover lung cancer screenings to high-risk patients, as does Medicare, up to age 77.

Screening pros and cons Doctors use a low-dose computed tomography scan of the lungs (also called a low-dose CT scan, or LDCT) to look for lung cancer. If lung cancer is detected at an early stage, it’s more likely to be cured with treatment. But LDCT isn’t recommended for every high-risk patient.

LDCT scans have a high rate of false positives, which means that many will undergo additional (and unnecessary) screening or medical procedures — such as another scan three, six, or even 12 months later — to check for changes in the shape or size of the suspicious area (an indication of tumor growth). For some patients, the anxiety or worry that goes along with waiting can be a real issue.

Or you may need a biopsy (removal of a small amount of lung tissue), which has risks, especially for those with underlying health conditions, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or emphysema. For example, in people with emphysema, there’s a chance of a lung collapsing during the procedure.

If you meet the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force criteria for high-risk lung cancer, the University of Michigan offers a free online tool (see ShouldIScreen.com)

golf or start hitting at the driving range.

You may want to work on improving your swing, too. Taking a lesson with a golf professional may be useful to ensure your form is still good.

Finally, invest in quality equipment.

Clubs with graphite shafts, and irons that are cavity-backed, reduce the vibration of impact and can help prevent injuries. © 2021 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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to help you decide if you should get an LDCT. It’s also important to discuss the benefits and risks with your primary care doctor before making a decision.

Tips for testing If you and your doctor determine that you should be screened, look for an imaging facility whose staff follows American College of Radiology requirements when performing low-dose CT scans. You can find accredited facilities at ACRaccreditation.org.

This can help to ensure an accurate read of your scans by a highly trained, boardcertified or board-eligible radiologist.

You may need a referral from your primary care provider. Most insurance companies, including Medicare, require this before they’ll cover the cost of screening.

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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Health Studies

J U N E 2 0 2 1 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

INFORMATION ON AREA CLINICAL TRIALS

A study to improve knee replacement surgery

By Margaret Foster For most people, knee replacement surgery improves their quality of life in a few weeks. A small percentage of patients,

though, aren’t quite satisfied — up to 20 percent, in fact.

Now, researchers at the Rubin Institute for Advanced Orthopedics are planning to

BEACON BITS

June 5

MEMORY LOSS SEMINAR The 14th Annual Holistic Health Seminar on Memory Loss takes

place via Zoom on Sat., June 5 from 9 to 11 a.m. The seminar will feature caregiver resources, holistic approaches to health and wellness and an interactive exercise demonstration. Register at bit.ly/HolisticHealthSeminar or by calling 1-855-492-6836. Email macab.info@gmail.com for additional information.

study how well the two typical knee replacement implants work.

“This study is going to be a game-changer in orthopedics,” said Dr. James Nace, the study’s principal investigator, who has been hoping to help those 20 percenters.

“We’re trying to find the perfection point for total knee replacement.”

The Rubin Institute is seeking to enroll 100 people age 18 to 75 who are planning to have knee replacement surgery at Sinai Hospital of Baltimore.

Participants will make eight in-person visits over five years to Sinai, located near Pimlico. (The Rubin Institute, owned by LifeBridge Health, has about a dozen locations in Maryland.) Free parking as well

as compensation for time and travel are available.

During three visits, researchers will analyze patients’ function and gait on the Rubin Institute’s state-of-the-art equipment.

Nace’s staff will compare patients’ gait before surgery, six weeks after surgery and a full year later.

The Rubin Institute’s laboratory is the first of its kind on the East Coast, according to Martin Gesheff, director in the research department at LifeBridge Health.

“The technology within the lab provides an advanced capability for research. It will provide a wealth of data that we can analyze for years to come,” Gesheff said.

Searching for the perfect knee replacement The study will compare the outcomes of medial pivot devices to single-radius designs. Both implants are used for total knee replacements, but some research indicates that medial pivot designs recreate more natural knee motion.

“Our main purpose is to improve function,” Nace said.

Nace emphasizes that doctors will follow the standard of care during the entire implantation process. The only difference is that study participants will undergo additional tests and gait analysis.

“There’s nothing experimental here; there’s just objective data,” he said.

Nace is looking forward to using the Rubin Institute’s specialized lab for future studies, too.

“There are probably 50 different papers we could publish because we have such a unique gait lab here,” Nace said. “This is really exciting stuff.”

For more information or to enroll in the study, email RIAOResearch@LifeBridgeHealth.org.

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June 7+

DEMENTIA CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUP

Are you helping someone who has Alzheimer’s disease or dementia?

Consider joining the free caregiver support group that meets via Zoom or telephone the first and third Mondays of each month from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Request information by visiting jcsbalt.org/dementia-support or calling Rachel Brodsky at (410) 843-7421.

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Fitness & Health

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — J U N E 2 0 2 1

9

Kidney stones: ways to reduce your risk

By Ivan Porter II, M.D. Dear Mayo Clinic: My father has a history of kidney stones. He has changed his diet in the past year, which seemed to help.

I’m concerned, though, since I’ve heard kidney stones can increase during the summer. Is this true? If so, are there any tips for how he can further reduce his risk?

A: As temperatures rise during the summer months, so does the risk of developing kidney stones, even if you have never had one before.

There are several reasons why there is a rise in kidney stones during the summer months. Among these reasons are an increase in outdoor activities, and the amount and types of food and drink we consume.

As the weather warms up, people spend more time outdoors. And often the body is not getting the type of fluids it needs while losing more than normal via the skin.

Kidney stones are hard deposits of minerals and salts that form inside your kidneys. They develop when your urine contains more crystal-forming substances, such as calcium, oxalate and uric acid, than the fluid in your urine can dilute.

There are several causes for kidney stones, including diet, which can play a significant role in the formation of kidney

stones. A family or personal history of kidney stones raises your risk, as do certain medications and medical conditions.

High body mass index, large waist size and weight gain also are associated with kidney stones. Having gastric bypass surgery and taking certain medications can raise your risk, too.

Drink more water, reduce salt One of the most straightforward ways to lower kidney stone risk is to drink plenty of fluids — water in particular. Extra fluids dilute urine, making stones less likely.

During the summer months, it is important to drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration. Consuming lots of liquid in the heat of summer can also lower your risk for developing kidney stones.

Typically, this equates to drinking about eight to 10 glasses a day of water, which should allow for you to pass approximately 2½ liters of urine per day.

One way to gauge whether you have adequate fluid intake is to check the appearance of your urine. If it’s light or clear, you’re likely drinking enough fluids.

Avoid too many sugar sweetened beverages or colas, as these can increase the risk. Sugary drinks, added sodium in sports drinks and an excess of calcium can increase your risk for stones also.

The amount of salt in your diet makes a difference, too. Taking in too much salt increases the amount of calcium your kidneys have to filter, and that raises your risk of kidney stones.

Many foods that are popular during the summer, including processed foods and meats like hamburgers and hot dogs (which are laden with sodium and nitrates) also can affect your risk for kidney stones. Reducing the amount of salt in your diet may lower the risk of stones.

Crafting a diet to prevent kidney stones can be complicated, so if your father has not had a consultation with a dietitian, I would recommend that he do so. Together they can review his specific situation and work to create an eating plan tailored to his needs during the summer and beyond.

Different types of stones It is important for your father to know See KIDNEY STONES, page 11

“I love it here!

I couldn’t have made a better choice.”

DO YOU HAVE TROUBLE SLEEPING? Study Volunteers Needed No In-Person Visits Required

–Beverly B., a community resident

At Charlestown, you’re free to live the independent life you want with an added safety net of support. We’re the premier senior living community in Catonsville!

The University of Maryland, Baltimore is conducting a research study to evaluate sleep and daytime function in older adults via mobile app.

• Go freely about your life and pursue the activities you love on our green and spacious campus.

• Be part of a connected community filled with friends, neighbors, and a dedicated staff.

• Gain time and freedom from the hassle and expense of house repairs.

We are inviting adults aged 60-85 years old with OR without sleep problems including insomnia, obstructive sleep apnea, and other sleep problems.

Call 1-800-989-6981 or visit CharlestownCommunity.com for your free brochure.

If you join the study: • You will wear a portable activity band.

• You will use an App on your smartphone to answer survey questions.

• You will receive compensation.

For more information, please contact the study team at: 410-706-1483 or emastudy@som.umaryland.edu.

Catonsville CharlestownCommunity.com 14601473

Principal Investigator: Emerson M. Wickwire, PhD ewickwire@som.umaryland.edu 410-706-4771 This research has been approved by the Institutional Review Board at University of Maryland, Baltimore, Protocol # HP-00092562.

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J U N E 2 0 2 1 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

Simple meat-free meatballs and burgers

By Family Features Plant-based eating should be easy and delicious — and it can be. Rather than follow strict rules, simply add foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, beans and grains to more meals throughout the day.

Walnuts, for example, are a kitchen multi-tasker with uses well beyond baked goods. In fact, walnuts can be used as a simple, whole-food meat alternative.

One ounce of walnuts contains important nutrients, including 4 grams of protein, 2 grams of fiber, 2.5 grams of monounsaturated fat, 13 grams of polyunsaturated fat and 2.5 grams of essential omega3 alpha-linolenic acid.

Try walnuts as an alternative to meat in recipes like these two, and find more plantforward recipes at walnuts.org/plantrecipes.

1 tablespoon Italian seasoning 2 tablespoons chopped Italian parsley 1 egg, beaten Directions: Preheat oven to 375° F and line baking sheet with parchment paper.

In small skillet over medium heat, heat oil. Add onion and garlic; sauté 1 minute. Add tomato paste and cook 1 minute.

Transfer to food processor with walnuts, rice, roasted red peppers, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, parsley and egg. Pulse until combined but not mushy.

Form into eight equal balls and place on prepared baking sheet. Bake 12 minutes, or until firm to touch. Serve with sauce of choice.

Walnut Meatless Meatballs

Walnut Steak House Burger

Serves 4 Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil ¼ cup minced onion 1 teaspoon minced garlic 1 tablespoon tomato paste ½ cup California walnuts, chopped ¼ cup cooked brown rice ¼ cup chopped roasted red peppers ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs ¼ cup Parmesan cheese

Serves 4 Ingredients: 1½ cups California walnuts ¾ cup red kidney beans, drained and rinsed ¾ cup cooked red lentils 6 tablespoons caramelized onions, chopped 1½ tablespoons Worcestershire sauce 1½ tablespoons steak house seasoning 1½ tablespoons olive oil

½ teaspoon kosher or sea salt Optional: add 1 egg and ¼ cup of panko for firmer texture Additional oil for brushing Directions: Place walnuts in a food processor and pulse to coarsely chop. Add kidney beans and lentils and pulse to combine.

Add caramelized onions, Worcestershire sauce, steak house seasoning, olive oil and salt, and pulse until blended but not mushy.

Form into 4 large patties.

Heat grill or flat top. Brush patties with olive oil and cook for 2 minutes on each side or until nicely seared. Serve on a bun with burger toppings.

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H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — J U N E 2 0 2 1

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Fitness & Health

11

Could you have small fiber neuropathy?

There is neuropathy, and then there is but again, the fibers destroyed in SFN are small fiber neuropathy. These conditions not myelinated; therefore, this condition are different. does not respond to methylatI hope this column will help ed vitamin B12 like you might many people who are suffering suspect. and don’t know what they Here are a few common have. You might very well have symptoms of SFN: small fiber neuropathy (SFN), -Internal vibration or restand if you ignore it, in time it lessness -Pins and needles will lead to bigger problems all over your body. But if you get -Numbness proper treatment and help, it is -Muscle aches -Electric shock sensations very treatable. I want to give DEAR in the body you hope, while educating you PHARMACIST about the disorder.

-Trigeminal neuralgia

By Suzy Cohen Only the small cutaneous -GI motility problems (skin) nerves are affected in SFN. The -Postural orthostatic hypotension (low main difference between SFN and typical blood pressure when you stand up) peripheral neuropathy (PN) is that SFN at-Bladder problems tacks the “small unmyelinated fibers,” -Dysautonomia hence the name “small fiber neuropathy,” -Redness on the feet, termed erythromeand it begins with sensations in your toes lalgia and feet. [Ed. Note: Myelinated fibers are Erythromelalgia is fairly hallmark — nerve fibers in your brain, optic nerves and episodes of redness, heat, pain or mild spinal cord that are covered by a protective swelling in the feet usually, although it sheath of myelin.] could be in the hands or anywhere in the Most other types of neuropathy have body. It’s usually triggered by raising your some degree of demyelination occurring, body temperature, which means you may

Kidney stones From page 9 the type of stone he forms. This can help with dietary choices.

For example, if his stones are calcium oxalate, he may need to limit foods rich in oxalates, e.g., certain fruits and vegetables, as well as nuts and chocolate. In most cases, eating low-fat dairy products with meals can protect against kidney stones by lowering oxalate that is absorbed.

Uric acid kidney stones can form in people who don’t drink enough fluids, have diabetes or metabolic syndrome, or eat a high-protein diet. In that case, choosing a diet low in animal protein can help.

If he has not already had one, I would recommend your father ask his healthcare

ple with fibromyalgia, an autoimmune disorder, suffer with some degree of SFN. One more interesting cause for this uncomfortable condition is the use of (or withdrawal from) SSRI antidepressants.

As for treatment, it varies based upon the etiology (cause). We see best effects from intravenous immunoglobulins (IV IG), as well as anti-seizure drugs like pregabalin and gabapentin.

I’ve written a more comprehensive article discussing more symptoms and treatments, as well as proper testing. I will email it to you if you sign up for my free newsletter. To do that, visit my website, suzycohen.com.

This information is opinion only. It is not intended to treat, cure or diagnose your condition. Consult with your doctor before using any new drug or supplement.

Suzy Cohen is a registered pharmacist and author of The 24-Hour Pharmacist and Real Solutions from Head to Toe.

Please tell our advertisers, “I saw you in the Beacon!”

provider for a test called a “metabolic urine profile.” This test involves analyzing urine over a 24- to 48-hour period. It gives specific information about how the kidneys are working and helps identify modifiable risk factors for kidney stone development.

By taking time to become educated about kidney stones and practice good hydration and diet, your father can reduce his risk for kidney stones despite the changing temperatures.

Should he find that his kidney stones are increasing, he should follow up with his healthcare provider or a nephrologist.

—Ivan Porter II, M.D., Nephrology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida © 2021 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. All rights reserved.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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Ongoing

exit a nice hot shower, hot tub or steam room and discover one or both feet have turned red, for example. It’s temporary and likely goes away in a few minutes.

The bottom line: If you notice unusual tingling, weakness or pain in your hands or feet, or any of the symptoms above, see your doctor.

Testing for SFN requires a skin biopsy, and there are amazing new test kits available now that a physician can order.

However, if your doctor does a regular EMG (electromyography) study on you, it will be normal. That’s the frustrating and confusing part — SFN does not show up on conventional EMG studies or nerve conduction studies.

The causes of SFN vary and may be tied to infections like Lyme disease or shingles, or endocrine conditions like diabetes.

Another frequent but hard-to-pinpoint cause is autoimmunity. About 40% of peo-

ALZHEIMER’S SUPPORT

If your loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia, you can search for memory care facilities near you by visiting alzheimersupport.com. The website also has a guide for finding the best memory care facilities.

Did you know you can download FREE eBooks, read magazines and newspapers online, and stream movies, television shows, and music through the Library? Visit hclibrary.org/research to get started. Need help? Call your local library branch for one-onone assistance.

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J U N E 2 0 2 1 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

A Publication of the Department of Community Resources and Services

Eat Fresh, Buy Local , at Farmers Markets

By Carmen Roberts, MS, RD, LDN, Nutritionist Howard County Office on Aging and Independence

T

here’s no reason not to eat fresh! Howard County’s farmers’ markets operate five days a week at alternating locations throughout the county, meaning that farm fresh produce is closer than you think! Here are just a few of the benefits of bypassing your supermarket this week to head to your local farmers’ market: EXERCISE — Walking around the outdoor markets is a great way to increase physical activity while getting fresh air and a boost of Vitamin D from being out in the sunshine.

FRESHNESS — Most participating farmers harvest their produce the day before or the morning of the market; fresh produce is richer in vitamins and tastes better than fruits and vegetables that have traveled many miles.

HEALTH — Purchasing local produce is a great way to add more fruits and vegetables into your diet. By supporting local growers, you can get produce that is fresher, better tasting, and naturally ripe. Most market vendors provide cooking tips, recipes, and meal ideas to inspire you to cook more at home.

ENVIRONMENT — Buying locally decreases the distance food is transported across the country or from other countries. This benefits the environment by reducing energy consumption and pollution.

Volume 11, No. 6 • June 2021

A Message from Howard County Executive

Calvin Ball

S

ummer is on its way, and just as we hoped, we are in a much better place this year amid the global pandemic.

We were able to resume in-person services for residents at our 50+ Centers last month, after more than a year of closures due to COVID-19. As of May, nearly 100% of our residents over 75 have been vaccinated and nearly 83% of our residents over 65 are vaccinated. This progress brings us great hope that we are inching closer to normal every day. If you haven’t already, be sure to get vaccinated and encourage family and friends to do so as well.

In addition to welcoming members back to our 50+ Centers, our team is still actively hosting online and virtual events for residents, which are much easier to browse and find on our new Howard County website. Be sure to visit www.howardcountymd.gov to see our improvements and let us know your thoughts — we want this site to be accessible to everyone. With a simple navigation, you can find our most popular services, activities for 50+ adults, and learn more about all that Howard County has to offer to you and your loved ones.

As we march on through the summer, I want to thank all our residents who have worked together over the past year to keep one another safe – your efforts truly have made a difference and saved lives. We’re so close, so let’s keep working together.

2021 Howard County Farmers’ Markets Clarksville Commons 12250 Clarksville Pike, Clarksville OPEN May 1 to November 6 Saturdays • 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

COST SAVINGS — Fruits and vegetables that are harvested and enjoyed in season cost less. Consider freezing produce at its peak ripeness so that you can enjoy it all year long.

Elkridge Furnace Inn Farmers’ Market

ECONOMIC IMPACT — Shopping at farmers’ markets supports family farmers who sell directly to consumers. By eliminating middlemen, local growers keep a larger portion of the sales price, which supports the local economy.

Days and hours of operation for the Farmers’ Markets vary by location, number of vendors, type of produce, and whether they offer organic fruits and vegetables, so you may want to do some research in advance.

Farmers’ Market @ Maple Lawn

To find a Howard County Farmers’ Market near you, see the list at right or visit www.hceda.org/farm-agriculture/locations/farmers-markets/

5745 Furnace Avenue, Elkridge OPEN Year-Round • Wednesdays • noon – 6:00 p.m.

7505 Maple Lawn Boulevard, Fulton OPEN May 8 to November 6 • Saturdays • 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Howard County Library Charles E. Miller Branch 9421 Frederick Road, Ellicott City OPEN May 5 to November 3 • Wednesdays • 2:00 – 6:00 pm

Howard County Library East Columbia Branch 6600 Cradlerock Way, Columbia OPEN May 6 to November 11 • Thursdays • noon – 7:00 p.m.

Oakland Mills Village Center Carmen Roberts is available for free one-on-one nutrition consultations.

To register, go to https://bit.ly/30qKZgj or call 410-313-0387 (voice/relay).

5851 Robert Oliver Place, Columbia OPEN May 9 to November 7 • Sundays • 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m

The 50+ Connection

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — J U N E 2 0 2 1

Say you saw it in the Beacon

WELCOME BACK! Howard County Office on Aging and Independence staff waarmly welcomed members back to the 50+ Centers* April 30 after more than a year’s closure due to COVID-19. Longtime member Brenda Colwell (pictured at center of photo bottom right) was first in line when the Bain 50+ Center reopened its doors for in-person services.

“Brenda was so excited to join our new fitness center,” said Director Linda Ethridge, “She came ready to work out!” The 50+ Centers and fitness equipment rooms are opperating at 50% capacity (by appointment only) and offer Maryland Access Point (MAP) and SHIP information annd assistance, plus limited activities.

Virtual 50+ Center offerings and Grab & Go meals will conntinue, and social programs such as discussion groups, lifelong learning, art and DIY activities, billiards, piickleball, walking groups, and health and wellness offerings will be phased in over the coming months. To To maake an appointment, call 410-313-5400 (voice/relay) or any centerr,, two business days in advance, between 9:00 am and 4:00 pm. * North Laurel 50+ Center will resume operations later this summer; appointments a for the fitness room, billiards and walking are currently available through Recreation and Parks at 410-313-0390.

EAST COLUMBIA 50+

ELKRIDGE 50+

GLENWOOD 50+

EC 50+ FITNESS F

BAIN 50+

EXPLORE the H Howard County 50+ CENTERS and discover a muultitude of ways for AGING WELL.

Paint A Garden Roock Add a painted rock with your own message, flair and favorite colors to one of our "Volunteers Rock" Gardens!

Rock "This partnership between the Departments of Community Resources and Services (DCRS) and Recreation and Parks was developed to recognize the contributions of the many volunteers who make Howard County rock solid as a community,” says Darlene Vaselaros, DCRS Volunteer Coordinator.

Let your creativity soar. Share a few words of gratitude. Paint a rock to acknowledge those who r just have fun! have had a positive impact on our community. No artistic abilities required...

Completed “rocks of art” can be displayed in one of three dedicateed rock gardens between April 1 and August 1: Ellicott City 50+ Center; Gary J. Arthur Comm munity Center; and the North Laurel Community Center. See www.hocovolunteer.org for volunteeer opportunities.

Emotional. Sexual. Finnancial. Physical.

Abuse isn’t alw ways visible.

LEARN THE SIGN NS OF ABUSE www.facebook.com/H facebook com/H HoCoCommunity JUNE 14 –18, 2021 ELDER ABUSE AW WARENESS WEEK CHECK ON VULNERABLE NEIGHBORS AND FAMIL FA LYY

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J U N E 2 0 2 1 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

VILLAGE LIFE the following is excerpted from

BGRNC Excels on 2020 MHCC Family Experience of Care Survey rooke Grove Rehabilitation and Nursing Center (BGRNC) achieved high scores on the Maryland Health Care Commission’s (MHCC) Nursing Home Family Experience of Care Survey for 2020. Ninety-five percent (95%) of respondents indicated that they would recommend BGRNC to others compared to a statewide average of 80% and a Montgomery County average of 81% who would recommend their nursing home. BGRNC also received high marks for its response to the COVID-19 outbreak.

B

A total of 223 Maryland nursing homes and 5,455 individuals participated in the Family Survey. It was sent to 102 designated family members of long-term care residents (100+ days) at BGRNC, which resulted in a 57% response rate. BGRNC’s overall rating of care was 8.7 on a scale of 1 to 10. This compares to statewide and county averages of 7.8 each.

Residents and Security and Resident’s Personal Rights. All of BGRNC’s domain scores were higher than state and county averages.

The 2020 survey contained two overall measures of satisfaction and 31 items assessing seven domains or aspects of residents’ life and care. These domains were: Staff and Administration of the Nursing Home, Care Provided to Residents, Food and Meals, Autonomy and Resident Rights, Physical Aspects of the Nursing Home, Activities, and Security and Resident’s Personal Rights. BGRNC’s highest domain scores were 3.6 (on a scale of 1 to 4) for Care Provided to

BGRNC’s scores are a direct result of a purposeful staff effort led by Administrator Rene Gomez and his leadership team. “I cannot express how humbled I am to work with all of you,” he said. “Thank you for all that you do on a daily basis and for the relentless commitment you bring to Brooke Grove. These scores show that even in tough times, great teams can have a huge, positive impact on residents’ lives.”

Message from the Village From the desk of Patty Anderson, executive director, Brooke Grove Retirement Village he results of the Brooke Grove Rehabilitation and Nursing Center (BGRNC) Family Experience of Care Survey from the Maryland Healthcare Commission for 2020 have arrived, and we landed on top! In the face of adversity, and in the toughest of times throughout the pandemic, BGRNC received high scores from its longterm care family members. All domains were higher than state and county averages!

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It honestly does not surprise me to see this reflection of the excellence in service BGRNC provided throughout the pandemic.

Brooke Grove Retirement Village is blessed with such giving and dedicated staff who literally put their lives on the line each day INDEPENDENT LIVING

ASSISTED LIVING

to continue offering the best possible care in the most difficult of times. Our teams are engaged, eager to learn and to serve, working toward a common goal in support of one another. We also had the benefit of many family members and residents cheering us on with notes of encouragement and meals for nourishment as we navigated each new phase of the pandemic.

We are grateful for the positive feedback, our devoted staff, and the BGRNC leadership team that led so well throughout this past year.

REHABILITATION

LONG-TERM CARE

MEMORY SUPPORT

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — J U N E 2 0 2 1

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A Wa Walk into Spring rooke Grove Retirement Village is well-kknown for its unique setting of rural woodland beauty in the heart h of a popular metropolitan area. Spring brings special deliight and new life as leaves return to trees, flowers burst into blooom and birds prepare their nests. From the sun on the fields to youungsters stepping out into the world for the first time, the season offers o enchanting views and experiences to residents, staff andd visitors alike.

There is something therapeutic about naturee.

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Brooke Grove’s 220-acre campus is simply different … because what surrounds you really matters.

Independent Living Liv ving at BGRV B is Simply S Different D he Cottages independent living community includes 40 spacious homes featuring casual elegance and comfort.

With no responsibility for lawn upkeep, snow removal, home maintenance, housecleaning or even appliance repair, there’s more time for what you really want to do. Improve your health with personalized fitness programs, tailored classes, walking paths with LifeT Tr ail® stations and more. Dine on delicious cuisine prepared by talented chefs. You’ll be among neighbors who share your interests and passions, and BGR RV ’s exceptional continuum of care ensures you won’t ever face life changes alone.

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Brooke Grove is simply different for a varietyy of reasons, including its unique setting of rural woodlandd beauty, charming independent living community, state-of-the-art rehab center, and decades-long commitment to help resideents continue to lead self-authored lives at all levels of care.

“We have three different sizes of Cottages — small, medium and large — and we work from a priority waiit list,” explained Retirement Counselor Laura Wright. “I’ll bee very happy to talk with you about how to apply and share addittional information about our community and currently available homes. I invite you to contact me at 301-260-2321 or lwrigh ht@bgf.org.”

For more information about Brooke Grove, call

301- 637-8928 18100 Slade School Road Sandy Spring g, MD 20860

www.bgf.o org INDEPENDENT LIVING

ASSISTED T LIVING

REHABIL LITA TA AT TION

LONG-TERM CARE

MEMOR RY YS SUPPORT

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© RMARMION|DREAMSTIME.COM

Money Law &

Insurance agents share five common misconceptions about insurance.

See story on page 18.

Afraid to retire, even though you can?

By Kara Duckworth I am seeing an interesting pattern in discussions with my clients about retirement — and it’s certainly not one I was expecting. Instead of worrying about whether they’ll have enough saved to enjoy retirement, they’re worrying about whether they’ll enjoy retirement at all.

Discussions about retirement start almost as soon as people get their first jobs.

Whether it’s saving as much as possible in their 401(k) plan or making an annual IRA contribution, the focus is always on having enough money to retire and enjoy all the things they’ve been dreaming of doing.

For some, the big plans include traveling to far-flung destinations; for others, it’s spending time with family, finally moving to that place they love to visit on vacation, or volunteering.

As people make progress on achieving those retirement dreams, they don’t spend time thinking about what life may actually look like in retirement.

Just last week, I spoke to a client who says she would like to retire at the end of this year. We have been working toward her

economic freedom for years, and she has enough assets to be able to make all the dreams she has expressed come to fruition.

We got to the end of the financial plan discussion, and I was all set to celebrate starting the countdown to the long-awaited retirement date.

But there was a pause, and then she said, “I don’t know if I can actually start to withdraw the money and feel good about it.

I have been so focused on saving, investing and planning for years that I don’t know how I will feel about starting to take money out, even if it’s for things I think I want.”

Feelings of ambivalence She went on to say that she always thought she wanted to move to another state to be close to her extended family, but she now realizes that they are going to be busy with their own lives, and it won’t just be fun all the time, like her visits now.

She worries that the photography and golf hobbies that she feels like she never has time to enjoy now won’t be enough to fill her days. She has traveled extensively already, and the list of places she still

wants to visit is getting shorter.

In other words, her biggest worry about retiring is what she is going to do with her time — even though she says frequently that she can’t wait to stop working.

For other people, retiring from being an expert in their field or having a prestigious job feels like giving up part of the identity they have worked very hard to earn.

So, what do you do when the hardest part about retirement is actually retiring? Here are some ideas to make retirement the next step in a journey, not a final destination: Consider slowing down at work instead of stopping completely. Working part-time allows you to have the best of both worlds: continued income and a dayto-day sense of purpose, as well as the time to pursue hobbies, travel and leisure.

Try before you buy. If relocation is in your retirement plans, take a new location for a test drive before committing to living there full-time.

Rent a house for a year in a new state to see if you like living there. In the meantime, you can rent out your current home

for some income, or just come back home for a break during the very hot or cold months in the new state.

Plan to explore new things. While you may have a few hobbies that you enjoy now and want to pursue in retirement, you can also plan to try out new experiences to keep your day-to-day life fresh and interesting.

Many people find that volunteering gives them the purpose that working used to fulfill — but without the stress.

You can also explore activities that you always thought sounded fun — painting, ballroom dancing, pickleball — but never had time to do before.

“I am busier now that I’m retired than I was when I was working” is a common theme I hear from clients, but now the activities are things they enjoy.

Having your financial adviser work with you on planning for your life in retirement as well as your finances will ensure the transition you make will be happy and fulfilling. © 2021 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

IRS ignores those filing paper tax returns I have been filing my federal tax returns told me that an IRS advocate was assigned to on paper for more than 50 years. It was me, and that I could expect a response from her. I was provided her phone never any trouble at all. After number. all, I had been an enrolled I then contacted TurboTax agent for several years.

But that all changed after I to file electronically. However, filed my 2019 return. representatives at TurboTax I filed it in April 2020. The told me that after October, the IRS still has not processed it.

IRS no longer accepted e-files When I go to the IRS website for 2019, and that they could and use the “Where’s my reonly file a paper return. They fund?” option, the IRS doesn’t suggested that I file a paper reeven indicate that my return turn again by registered mail.

THE SAVINGS has been received.

I followed their advice and GAME After several months of not filed a copy of my previous

By Elliot Raphaelson receiving an acknowledgment paper return again. This was from the IRS that it has my reagainst the IRS recommendaturn, I wrote to my congressional represen- tion. The IRS says on its website not to contative complaining about the delay. The rep- tact them and not to refile. However, the IRS resentative asked me for permission to con- still has not indicated that it has received any tact the IRS on my behalf, and I consented. paper return from me for 2019.

As a result of that intervention, I received a phone response from an IRS representative The trouble continues in December, who told me to file my return I contacted TurboTax in March 2021 to electronically. The IRS representative also file my 2020 tax return electronically. They

prepared my return and tried to file electronically.

When you file electronically, the IRS asks for your adjusted gross income (AGI) for the previous year as a security measure.

I entered the AGI from my 2019 return but, as I feared, the IRS rejected my e-filing because it has no record of that return!

After the rejection, TurboTax representatives then told me to enter zero for my 2019 AGI. I did that, and again the IRS has rejected my e-filing. (H&R Block informed me that its software also requires a valid AGI from 2019.)

TurboTax has now told me I must file by paper again in 2020 because the IRS won’t accept my request to file electronically. Naturally, I don’t want to file a paper return again.

I have gone to the internet to see if my situation is common. I have found that others are faced with the same problem. It’s a Catch-22.

Millions of individuals have also filed paper tax returns for 2019 that have not been processed. Yet the IRS won’t allow efiling because there is no AGI that match-

es their records.

Even though the IRS has assigned me a tax advocate who supposedly should be assisting me, she has not contacted me, and she doesn’t return my phone calls.

If millions of taxpayers like me are forced to file a paper return for our 2020 taxes, how long will the delay be? The IRS has already extended the April 15 filing date to May 17 because of its inability to process returns in a timely manner.

The IRS has no legitimate reason not to allow individuals whose 2019 returns have not been processed to file their 2020 returns electronically. I suggest you write to the IRS commissioner Charles Rettig, as I have done, at 77 K St. NE, Washington, D.C. 20002, and demand that he inform his staff of this problem, and that they take whatever steps are necessary to accept efiled returns from taxpayers who have no apparent record of AGI for 2019.

This situation is ridiculous. We are simSee PAPER RETURNS, page 18

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — J U N E 2 0 2 1

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Law & Money

17

Why worry about loss of ‘basis step-up’?

By Liz Weston Death and taxes may be the only certainties in life, but death taxes are only a remote possibility for most people. The vast majority of Americans won’t ever have or give away enough to owe estate or gift taxes.

But far more people could be affected if a tax break that benefits heirs is eliminated. While campaigning for president, Joe Biden proposed doing away with something called the “step-up in basis” that allows people to minimize or avoid capital gains taxes on inherited assets.

No legislation has been proposed yet, and such a change could have a tough time getting approved by a divided Congress.

But it’s worth knowing what the fuss is about.

“Right now, we’re telling folks to start thinking about this stuff, but we’re not rushing out to take action,” said certified financial planner Colleen Carcone, a director of wealth planning strategies at TIAA.

How step-up in basis lowers taxes Although most estates don’t owe estate taxes, anyone who’s inherited a house, stock or other property has likely benefited from the step-up tax break that boosts the value of such assets to fair market value at the owner’s death.

Say your savvy aunt paid $7,000 for a single share of Berkshire Hathaway stock in 1990. That’s her tax basis. If she sold the stock for its closing price of $362,000 on Feb. 10, she would owe capital gains tax on the $355,000 gain. If she generously gave you the stock and you sold it on Feb. 10, you’d owe the same amount of tax because you’d also hold the stock at her tax basis.

Now, let’s say that instead of giving you the stock, she left it to you in her will and she died Feb. 10. The stock would get a new basis for tax purposes of $362,000 (its fair market value on that date). All the gain that occurred during her lifetime would never be taxed. If you sold the stock later, you would owe tax only on any gains that occurred after her death.

Some kinds of inheritances, such as annuities or retirement accounts, don’t get the step-up. But it’s no exaggeration to say that far more people benefit from our estate tax system — by inheriting homes and other assets with a stepped-up tax basis — than have to pay any estate taxes.

out having to report the gifts.

Even if you do have to file a gift tax return, you wouldn’t actually owe gift taxes until the amount you gave away in your lifetime — over and above the annual exclusion amounts — totaled more than $11.7 million.

However, these historically high limits are scheduled to end in 2025. That means in 2026 the estate and gift tax exemption limits would revert to $5 million per per-

This year, an estate has to be worth more than $11.7 million to trigger federal estate taxes. Less than 0.1 percent of the

See ESTATE TAXES, page 19

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People who have to pay gift taxes are pretty rare as well. There’s an annual exclusion, or an amount you can give away to as many people as you want each year without having to file a gift tax return.

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Things you need to know about insurance

By Sarah Schlichter Insurance is notoriously complicated, and few people have the time or desire to pore over their policies. But some basic knowledge can go a long way. And that’s where an insurance agent can help, by clearing up some of the most common mis-

conceptions they encounter.

Here are five things agents say are helpful for customers to know:

Insurance doesn’t cover everything When it comes to insurance, “Most people don’t understand the details,” said An-

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drew McGill, agent at The Insurance Shoppe in Tennessee. For instance, they often don’t realize that most homeowners policies won’t cover flood or earthquake damage. If your home is at risk for these disasters, you need separate coverage.

Auto policies generally cover only personal use of your car, so if you’ve picked up a side gig delivering groceries or meals during the pandemic, you likely need additional coverage, said Keya Pratt, agent and CEO of Pratt Insurance LLC in Richmond, Virginia. Otherwise, accidents you have on the job may not be covered.

Insurance policies of all types also generally exclude wear and tear, said Katherine Navarro Wong, a State Farm agent in Santa Rosa, California. She often gets calls from policyholders asking if their insurance will pay for things like broken dishwashers or aging gutters.

The answer is no. Insurance is designed to cover sudden, accidental damage, not

Paper returns From page 16 ply trying to comply with the law and file our taxes, and we should not be punished because the IRS hasn’t processed 2019 paper returns yet.

I suggest you copy Treasury Secretary

regular maintenance. “We’re not going to replace [an] old pipe,” Wong said, “but if the pipe accidentally burst and ruined the wall and the flooring,” that would be covered.

A gap in coverage can be costly There are various reasons you might let your car insurance policy lapse. Perhaps you’re having trouble paying your bills, or you no longer own a vehicle.

But this could cost you, Pratt said. “People tend to shop insurance after they’ve already canceled their insurance, [but] unfortunately that’s a huge negative” when calculating your price.

After a gap in coverage, insurers view customers as riskier and charge higher rates.

You can avoid this by shopping for quotes before your policy expires, buying nonowner car insurance if you’re between vehicles, and asking your carrier for lenienSee INSURANCE, page 19

Janet Yellen with your correspondence to the IRS commissioner. You can reach her at the Treasury Department, 1500 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20220.

Elliot Raphaelson welcomes your questions and comments at raphelliot@gmail.com. © 2021 Elliot Raphaelson. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Law & Money

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — J U N E 2 0 2 1

Estate taxes From page 17 son, adjusted for inflation. Biden wants the exemption to drop to $3.5 million per person.

People in some states already face lower limits. The 12 states that impose their own estate taxes — Connecticut, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont and Washington — and the District of Columbia have lower exemption limits than the feds. [Maryland’s is currently $5 million; D.C.’s is $4 million.]

Massachusetts and Oregon have the lowest exemption amounts, $1 million.

Six states — Iowa, Kentucky, Maryland, Nebraska, New Jersey and Pennsylvania — also levy taxes on people who inherit wealth.

Different tax rates and exemption limits apply, depending on the relationship between the inheritor and the person who died. Immediate family members usually pay the least, if anything, while distant relations and nonrelatives pay more.

Insurance

For now, keep good records The idea of eliminating the step-up in basis has been proposed in the past, but it faced headwinds in part because the practice benefits a wide range of voters.

Since there’s no concrete proposal to change the step-up, there’s not much people can do to prepare for change other than what they should be doing anyway, which is keeping careful records. That means “tracking the basis” of what they paid for any assets as part of routine estate planning.

If you buy shares of a stock in a taxable account, for example, hang onto records showing those purchases.

The cost of any improvements you make to a home or other real estate also can increase its tax basis and potentially reduce taxes later. So, keep those receipts as well.

“The one thing we do think folks should start doing today is really start to think about the record-keeping,” Carcone said.

—AP/NerdWallet

Get and check free weekly credit reports

By Lisa Gerstner The three major credit bureaus — Equifax, Experian and TransUnion — will continue to offer a free credit report to consumers each week at AnnualCreditReport.com until April 20, 2022.

The extension follows the bureaus’ move in spring 2020 to provide free weekly reports as the coronavirus pandemic struck the U.S., causing financial hardship for Americans who lost their job or faced a pay cut.

Before the recent announcement, the availability of free weekly reports was scheduled to expire in April. Typically, a free report is available from each bureau only once every 12 months through AnnualCreditReport.com.

Check each report for errors or signs

of fraudulent activity —such as the presence of a credit card or loan that you never opened, or a collection account for a debt that you don’t owe.

The most effective way to block identity thieves from opening accounts in your name is to put a free security freeze on your report from each bureau. (You can add a freeze at transunion.com/freeze, experian.com/freeze and equifax.com/personal/credit-report-services.)

When a freeze is in place, a creditor cannot access your report in response to an application for new credit, thwarting crooks.

If you want to open a new credit account, you can temporarily lift the freeze. © 2021 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

FIND Y FIND YOUR OUR N NEW EW H HOME OME A AT T

From page 18 cy if you’re struggling to make payments.

You can’t cover risks after the fact If you get into an accident and your car needs repairs, you might want a rental vehicle to help you get around. But by that point it would be too late to add rental car coverage to your policy, Wong said. Your auto policy would pay for this only if you had rental car coverage in place when the accident happened — not if you added it the day after.

The same goes for other insurance. For example, say a storm leaves an inch of water in your basement, but you haven’t purchased flood insurance. You can still buy coverage for future disasters, but it won’t pay for damage your home has already sustained.

Don’t skimp on liability insurance Many people focus on buying enough coverage for their belongings, but the liability insurance on your policy may be even more important. It pays for injuries or property damage that you’re at fault for.

A lawsuit “is going to be more devastating than losing your laptop [or] ring,” Wong said. Including legal fees, the cost can total hundreds of thousands of dollars, especially if someone is seriously injured.

To protect yourself financially, buy enough liability insurance on your auto and home insurance policies to cover your net worth.

Your agent is there to help Confused by your policy’s fine print?

Don’t struggle through it on your own, said Jana Schellin Foster, agent at Nevada Insurance Agency Co. in Reno, Nevada.

“We’re here to take care of you and walk you through this process.”

—AP/NerdWallet

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Travel Leisure &

You don’t have to drive far to visit spectacular gardens like Ladew Topiary Garden in Monkton, Maryland. See story on page 22.

Nashville tempts palate with reopenings

Live music rebounds At the mother church of country music, the Ryman Auditorium — formerly known as the Grand Old Opry House — some concerts are being added to the light 2021 schedule. There’s also an excellent backstage tour of the building.

On Nashville’s waterfront, the Ascend Amphitheater is a good bet, with a sum-

mer schedule that begins with ballet in mid-May and includes artists like Lindsey Stirling, Phish and John Legend.

The City Winery is already hosting shows in a large, well-ventilated tent with tables appropriately distanced. Also following mask and distancing protocols are 3rd & Lindsley and Marathon Music Works. A cool New York transplant, Brooklyn Bowl, will be opening its lanes and its music stage soon.

Along downtown’s Lower Broadway (sometimes called NashVegas!) and its side streets, you’ll find plenty of Nashville’s iconic bar-restaurant-clubs, called honkytonks. It’s an exciting privilege to see songwriters present new material at places like the Bluebird Café and The Listening Room.

Just 45 minutes away is the new FirstBank Amphitheater in Franklin, Tennessee. Built in a quarry, its dramatic setting includes cliff walls and waterfalls. It’s scheduled to open later this year.

About 90 minutes from Nashville, in Pelham, Tennessee, The Caverns is an actual underground music venue where PBS filmed a television concert series called “Bluegrass Underground.”

The pandemic caused them to vacate the caves, and in October 2020, The Caverns Above Ground Amphitheater was born. In addition to live music, there are two different tours of the caves; one is a challenging three-to-four-hour adventure.

PHOTO COURTESY OF TAYLOR WALLACE/ASCEND AMPHITHEATER

By Ann Cochran Now that many of us are fully vaccinated, we can finally plan a getaway. Our first trip might be a road trip, perhaps a longer drive than we would have undertaken before.

After having to stay put for more than a year, I’m looking for a destination that’s within a day’s drive but feels different from my normal stomping grounds.

It only takes 10 hours to drive from here to Nashville, but it feels like it’s a world away. I love Nashville for its creativity and talent in music, cuisine and beyond, for its friendly vibe and fantastic food. Even if it isn’t in full swing, I would be happy to be in Music City.

Nashville’s museums and restaurants are open, but attendance is limited, meaning more reservations and less spontaneity.

Shops are also open, and so are Nashville’s many lovely parks. And, of course, in a city known for its live music, indoor and outdoor concerts are resuming.

PHOTO COURTESY OF VISIT NASHVILLE

Patsy Cline, Willie Nelson and other musicians performed at the legendary Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge, established in 1960. Located behind the Ryman Auditorium (formerly the venue for the Grand Ole Opry), Tootsie’s is the most famous honky tonk on downtown Nashville’s Lower Broadway, otherwise known as Honky Tonk Highway.

At downtown Nashville’s Ascend Amphitheater, concertgoers get a view of the skyline and the Cumberland River.

The museum scene Combining culture and music, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum has been the gold standard for years, with exhibits that demonstrate the influence Country music has had on many genres.

“Sing Me Back Home” is its permanent exhibit, with an excellent film, stories and displays from Country’s pre-commercial roots to the present.

Before leaving, book a tour of RCA Studio B, the oldest of Nashville’s recording studios. Elvis, Dolly and many others recorded their hits here.

If you prefer to focus on one artist, I recommend the small but packed Johnny Cash Museum.

For a dose of beauty and history, spend a few hours at Cheekwood Gardens, a 55acre complex with gardens, an art museum and an extravagant 36-room house built in 1929.

Belle Meade Plantation is an opportunity to tour a much older mansion, focus on African American history, explore the vast grounds, learn about thoroughbreds and end the day with a wine or bourbon tasting. Belmont Mansion was built around the same time, 1853, and has been meticulously restored.

Martin Luther King’s birthday this year marked the opening of the National Museum of African American Music. More than 50,000 square feet of exhibit space tell the stories of 400 years of African American music, from spirituals to the blues and

jazz, all the way to hip-hop. The museum is the only one in the country, its website says, “with a dedicated focus on the impact of African American music.”

For a different slice of history, visit President Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage, the plantation where he lived after his presidency ended in 1804 until his death in 1845. It is one of the oldest and largest historic site museums in the country.

Four decades of research about the 200 enslaved men, women and children who worked in the house and cotton fields have produced historically significant and fascinating information that’s on display and presented by guides.

The Frist Art Museum is 20 years young but definitely world-class, with an acclaimed Picasso exhibit just wrapping up. Currently open four days a week, the museum changes its exhibitions every few months.

Its ArtQuest gallery has 30 interactive stations where, with the assistance of staff and volunteers, visitors of all ages can make a print, paint an original watercolor or create a sculpture.

Fine dining to cafeterias Hungry yet? Eating in Nashville offers an embarrassment of riches, from fine dining to hot chicken, morning biscuits and “meat and three” dishes.

Like many restaurants, the fine dining Margot Café and Bar is open with limited See NASHVILLE, page 21

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H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — J U N E 2 0 2 1

Nashville From page 20 seating, so reservations are highly recommended. Owner Margot McCormack, called the Alice Waters of Nashville by Time Magazine, specializes in the foods of Provence and Tuscany.

Acclaimed chef Sean Brock chose Nashville for his first Husk outside Charleston. With a charming wraparound porch, this is a great choice for modern Southern cuisine.

Make reservations as far in advance as you can to experience a special occasion at the Catbird Seat’s u-shaped bar, where a nine-course ballet of a meal is skillfully prepared. Lots of music industry people dine at City House for Italian food influenced by the American South.

When in Nashville, one must try the Nashville Hot Chicken, poultry that’s buttermilk-soaked, cayenne-rubbed and deepfried. Hattie B’s and Prince’s are well established and beloved, but they aren’t the only games in town.

“Meat and three” is a very Southern food category consisting of a protein and three vegetables (mac-n-cheese counts).

At Arnold’s Country Kitchen, a James Beard America’s Classic, people have been lining up cafeteria-style since 1982.

For coffee refuels, stop at Barista Parlor, located in a converted transmission repair shop. Frothy Monkey, with several locations, also serves great coffee, brunches and more.

At Golden Sound, in an old recording studio, the baristas will recommend the ideal method for grinding the bean you choose. From the installations on the walls to the mugs and tables, locally sourced isn’t limited to breakfast meats and jams.

A unique dessert spot is Las Paletas, for savory (avocado) and sweet (corn, hot chocolate) ice pops created from old Mexican family recipes.

Unique shopping venues Walking off a big meal goes nicely with shopping, and the 12 South neighborhood is ideal. No national chains here.

White’s Mercantile, a general store akin to Anthropologie, is owned by Hank Williams’ singer-songwriter-musician granddaughter Holly.

Imogene + Willie sells custom-fitted “heritage blue jeans” that are popular with celebrities. Down the street, Judith Bright’s contemporary, affordable jewelry is handmade by local artisans.

There’s lots of great shopping all over town. A six-acre complex of shops and restaurants, called Fifth + Broadway after its location, opened in mid-March about half full. It has a vast food hall, live music

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venues and shopping. New tenants continue to move in.

Batch Nashville, at the Farmers Market, which should reopen soon, is a one-stop shop for all manner of Nashville-made goods, sold singularly or grouped in popular gift boxes.

Attached to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, Hatch Show Print is a letterpress shop that sells both vintage and new posters made by hand with an enormous stock of wooden block letters and images that have been accumulating since the business started in 1879.

If you go As we emerge from the pandemic, any travel requires making calls to confirm what’s open. And please note: not all websites are up to date.

Downtown hotel rates start at $145 per night; 12 new hotels opened in 2020, and 14 more are opening this year. From the hip Virgin and the luxurious Joseph, there

are choices upon choices for every style and budget.

Airbnb is doing a brisk business as well.

Don’t call too far in advance, since re-open-

21

ing is a moving target.

Round-trip, nonstop flights from Washington, D.C. to Nashville start at $244 on Southwest Airlines.

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J U N E 2 0 2 1 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

Springtime beckons at gardens nearby

By Victor Block Onlookers gaze in awe at topiary sculptures of riders astride galloping horses and hounds pursuing a frantic fox.

Grandparents look on with delight as grandchildren make mud pies and dig in dirt to find ersatz dinosaur bones.

Exquisite statuary, ornate stonework and splashing fountains create a scene which could be set in Italy — but isn’t.

These seemingly disparate scenes have one thing in common: They’re all taking place at gardens located within a convenient drive of our mid-Atlantic neighborhood.

With flowers in full bloom and trees sporting a blanket of green, there’s no better time to get outside to enjoy one of Mother Nature’s most magnificent Technicolor shows.

Whether you’re an experienced horticultural expert, a casual gardener or merely someone seeking a pleasant getaway in beautiful surroundings, a visit to these nearby places can lift your spirits.

Lush gardens, wetlands, wildlife Consider that fox hunting scene, which could take place in the English countryside.

The shrubs, clipped and shaped into lifesize figures, greet visitors at Ladew Topiary Garden in Monkton, Maryland, deemed “the most outstanding topiary garden” in the country by the Garden Club of America.

Among more than 100 forms that inhabit the expanse are a Chinese junk boat complete with sails, a graceful swan and a longnecked giraffe. Its 22 acres also contain

rose, white and sculpture gardens. (For more information visit ladewgardens.com.)

Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia, has more than two dozen gardens, ranging from grand, decorative layouts to tiny kitchen plantings.

The highlight is the complex at the Governor’s Palace, which resembles those at 17century English country estates. It covers 10 acres and includes “falling gardens” (terraces) that were planted during the 1800s.

The Colonial Garden and Nursery displays heirloom roses and examples of culinary and medicinal herbs that were used by the colonists (colonialwilliamsburg.com).

Native plants, tropical orchids Some outstanding gardens focus their collections on flora native to the Mid-Atlantic region. That’s the case at the Mt. Cuba Center in Hockessin, Delaware, where walking paths lead through hundreds of acres of plant life indigenous to the state.

The center was created by a du Pont who strayed from the family practice of filling gardens with imports from around the world. Instead, the focus is on gardens filled with floral displays found throughout Delaware (mtcubacenter.org).

Native plants, shrubs and trees also are on display at the West Virginia University Core Arboretum in Morgantown. Three

miles of foot trails introduce visitors to more than 250 species of herbaceous plants and 80 types of trees, some of which are more than 200 years old.

Adding to the experience at the 91-acre arboretum is that more than 180 species of birds have been observed there (arboretum.wvu.edu).

Historic garden in D.C. Gardens also can conjure up interesting chapters of history. The layout at Dumbarton Oaks is an inviting oasis in Washington, D.C. The mansion is surrounded by 16 acres of terraced gardens, kitchen plots, orchards and meadows.

The estate was the residence of Robert Woods Bliss — a diplomat, art collector and philanthropist — and his wife Mildred.

In 1944, at the height of World War II, they hosted a series of diplomatic meetings among high-ranking delegations from the United States, United Kingdom, China and the Soviet Union. The gathering led to the establishment of the United Nations one year later. (Starting May 15, timed tickets for admission to the gardens can be purchased at doaks.org.)

Due to restrictions and temporary closures caused by the pandemic, it’s wise to check ahead before planning a visit to any of these gardens.

HC6/21

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — J U N E 2 0 2 1

Say you saw it in the Beacon

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Arts &

A-OK mentors help Howard County students succeed. Our cover story continues on page 25.

Local author gives back with each book friend from hunters after he loses his roar.

Last fall People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), selected it for its list of “Must-Read Compassionate Books” featured on their website. That list includes well-loved children’s classics like Black Beauty, Blueberries for Sal and Charlotte’s Web. “As an animal lover and vegetarian almost my whole life, that meant a lot to me,” Michal said.

Michal not only writes about animals, but for each copy of the book she sells, she donates $1 to the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, an organization that promotes a plant-based diet and finds alternatives to animal research.

Michal’s first book, A Human for Huxley, tells the story of a dog who searches for a human to adopt him. For that book, she donates to Pets with Disabilities, an organization providing shelter and specialized care for dogs and cats with disabilities.

In April Michal published her third book, All Mommies Love Their Babies. One dollar for each copy sold goes to Animal Rescue, a Pennsylvania organization that either finds a home for animals in need or enables them to live at their sanctuary.

Pursuing a dream Lifelong love of animals Having her book featured on a royal YouTube channel wasn’t the only honor Michal received for Mission: Protect Bear, which tells the story of forest animals using their special skills to protect their bear

Michal, 55, still enjoys her full-time job as an administrator for the City of Baltimore, but in recent years, she has been working overtime on her lifelong dream to write children’s books.

“I’m a voracious reader,” she said. “I read

immensely to my kids.”

Inspired by other children’s book authors, the mother of two wrote and submitted several manuscripts to editors without much luck.

“When I pitched Mission: Protect Bear, editors liked the idea but were not sure it would reach the public,” Michal said.

Finally, in 2019, Michal decided to take matters into her own hands. She realized that if she published the book herself, she could have control over all aspects of the book. So, she created an LLC, Give Back Books, and in early 2020 released her first title.

One of Michal’s major tasks has been finding illustrators who can translate her vision into images that accompany her text. Over the See LOCAL AUTHOR, page 24

PHOTO COURTESY OF ZOE MICHAL

By Catherine Brown Last November, Maryland children’s book author Zoe Michal received an unexpected and very exciting email.

Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York, had chosen Michal’s second book, Mission: Protect Bear, to read on her YouTube channel, “Storytime with Fergie and Friends.”

Ferguson, the former wife of Prince Andrew, who has written four children’s books, started the channel during the pandemic to keep children entertained during the lockdown.

“I was so excited,” said Michal, 55, a Baltimore resident. “She was always my favorite royal.”

That magical moment came about not solely by chance, but rather as the result of Michal’s marketing acumen. Michal had discovered Ferguson’s channel, found the contact information for the Duchess’ business manager, and pitched her book.

“I figured the worst thing she could do would be to tell me no,” she said.

Instead, Michal was surprised to receive a response saying Ferguson would consider it. She mailed a copy of the book to England and waited. She was thrilled to learn that the Duchess would read the book for story time that November day.

Maryland author Zoe Alexa Michal has self-published three children’s books; her latest title was released in April. Michal donates a portion of the proceeds from her books to various animal welfare groups.

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24

Arts & Style | New: subscribe online! See how on p. 22

Local author From page 23 past year and a half, Michal has worked with illustrators from Lithuania, Italy and Turkey.

“It’s so cool to work with people all over the world,” Michal said. “I give them my

words, and they interpret them. Sometimes the illustrations are even better than what I could imagine.”

A ‘5 to 9 job’ Michal has also had to learn to market her books — in a pandemic, no less.

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J U N E 2 0 2 1 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

“Once everything shut down and I couldn’t do readings in schools and libraries, I got right on social media,” Michal said.

Managing accounts on multiple platforms has been time-consuming, but she makes time in the evenings, sometimes while watching TV with her husband.

Michal describes her new career as her “5 to 9 job” that starts when her traditional workday ends. Despite the long hours,

Michal is happy to be pursuing her passion.

“Some older people feel lost when their children leave the house, but for me this is the best time. I’ve already raised my kids and don’t have all the pressures I had when first starting out,” she said. “I get to do what I want to do.”

All three of Michal’s books are available at amazon.com/author/zoemichal. For more information, visit gbbooks.org.

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ANSWERS TO JUMBLE Jumbles: KOALA GRILL MIFFED RELENT Answer: Kong had trouble finding a meal that was — FIT FOR A KING

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Say you saw it in the Beacon | Arts & Style

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — J U N E 2 0 2 1

Tutoring From page 1 enable students to feel valued and help them succeed.

The school system partners with several community-based tutoring and mentoring organizations. A-OK works with students at some elementary and middle schools while also participating in afterschool programs, such as the Black Student Achievement Program (BSAP), Bridges Across Howard County and BSAP Saturday Math Academy.

High success rate Today, A-OK has 120 volunteers who mentored 516 students during the 2019-20 school year, 116 through one-on-one mentoring sessions and 400 in group sessions.

In its 2019-20 report on school partnerships, Howard County Public Schools reported that 90% of teachers saw academic progress in students with mentors.

“A-OK mentors build positive relationships with school staff as they provide consistent academic support,” said Brian Bassett, spokesperson for the school system.

“With their support, we are able to individually assist more students with homework and tutoring.”

A-OK Mentoring’s current executive director, Amanda Mummert, said that volunteers “work one-on-one with students each week to help with homework or talk through what’s happening at home.” They also work in group settings to lead homework clubs and reading centers.

Mummert, A-OK’s third director, took over in April of 2020 from Susan Berger, who filled the role of executive director after Kaplan retired in 2015.

Mentoring via Zoom Of course, when schools closed during the pandemic, volunteers could no longer meet with students in person.

“As with every organization, A-OK Mentoring has had to pivot as schools have shut down and education has moved to virtual platforms,” Mummert said.

Unfortunately, since last March fewer students have participated virtually than in person. Mummert suspects kids are burned out by on-screen interactions (known as “Zoom fatigue”) or that parents haven’t had time to sign up.

Natalie Rook, 70, has been volunteering with A-OK since 2006. She typically meets one-on-one with a student once a week.

This past year, she has met with her student via Zoom.

While meeting virtually has had its challenges, there have been perks. During inschool session, for instance, Rook wouldn’t always get a lot of time with her mentee because of various school activities.

“Online has been nice because we always get our full hour together,” she said.

Rook spends some of that time helping her mentee with schoolwork. “She got behind on a lot of work, especially in the beginning of the school year,” Rook said.

But they also play online games, a substitute for the time they used to spend playing board games and making crafts if

they were meeting in person.

“It’s been a different year,” Rook said, “but we have been able to make it work.”

Rea Goldfinger, who joined as a mentor in 2006 and currently serves as A-OK Mentoring-Tutoring’s administrator, has been impressed with this year’s overall success.

“When you see mentoring relationships work virtually, you know they’re strong relationships,” Goldfinger said. “Our volunteers really are wonderful.”

Mummert hopes schools will allow mentors back into the buildings this fall, but that decision depends on what is happening with the pandemic.

“It was such a vibrant program, and I have a lot of hope we’ll be able to pick back up,” she said.

Looking for upbeat volunteers Many of the mentors involved with A-OK are older and retired or have a disability and thus aren’t working during the day, according to Mummert. Some, but not all, are retired teachers or social workers. “We also have mathematicians, engineers, sales professionals, and more,” Mummert said.

During a typical year, volunteers undergo quarterly training sessions on how to help students with not only math and reading, but self-esteem and other psychological issues.

“In anticipation of seeing students facing mental health challenges as they re-

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enter school post-pandemic, we’ve booked experts to talk about mental health and anxiety this coming year,” Mummert said.

“We want to make sure volunteers are prepared with the tools they need.”

Although they don’t know whether they’ll be in schools in the upcoming year, A-OK is continuing to accept volunteer applications and is looking for people to serve on the organization’s board of directors.

All volunteers are fingerprinted and undergo a background check. A background in education isn’t necessary.

“We’re looking for volunteers that have interest, can support students for a year or more and are willing to be upbeat,” Mummert said.

Rook is one of several volunteers who had experience working as a reading tutor before she joined A-OK. She quickly found the A-OK experience a bit different from that of an academic tutor.

“There’s more mentoring,” Rook said.

“You’re working with kids who might have issues at home and might need more support.”

The time and effort are well worth it, she said.

“You don’t think you’re doing anything for the students, and then you get a glowing letter from the teacher saying how much they’ve improved,” Rook said. “The kids really bond and connect with you.”

For more information about volunteering, visit aokmentor.org.

BEACON BITS

May 26

BSO PERFORMANCE

The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra presents a performance premiere on Wed., May 26 at 8 p.m. followed by on-demand access through June. The orchestra will perform Hailstork’s “American Fanfare,” Husa’s “Divertimento” and Rautavaara’s “A Requiem in Our Time.” Tickets cost $9.99.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit bit.ly/BSOBrassMay-26.

May

BOOK FESTIVAL

The Gaithersburg Book Festival — one of the nation’s top literary events — will take place virtually this year. Events include presentations and panel discussions with best-selling and award-winning authors as well as interactive writing workshops. For more information, including a master schedule of events, visit gaithersburgbookfestival.org.

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To review our complete menu of marketing opportunities, visit cogsmd.org.

Prospective members are welcome to attend one meeting as our guest.

To register, email info@cogsmd.org.

26

Arts & Style | New: subscribe online! See how on p. 22

J U N E 2 0 2 1 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

Crossword Puzzle

Daily crosswords can be found on our website: www.TheBeaconNewspapers.com Click on Puzzles Food Coloring 1

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1. Prepare the cake batter 5. Pants pioneer, Strauss 9. “B __ boy” 13. Fire truck carry-on 14. Clapton, who is a 3-time inductee into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame 15. BP merger partner in 1998 16. “___ Lang Syne” 17. Snap up snappers 18. It counts down on a microwave 19. Nutritional supplement that can provide a jolt 22. Second year of the second millennium 23. Just the vowels in “general” 24. “Well, __-di-dah!”

25. Fancy organic munchies 31. The common part of ICU and SVU 32. Emilio Estevez, to Martin Sheen 33. Org. that coordinates “heart walks” in the US 34. Common score on hole 9 at Pebble Beach 36. Neighbor to Leb. 38. Novelist Jong 42. Switch ups 44. ___-Wan Kenobi 46. Bring upon a disastrous fate 47. Many Minute Maid customers don’t want it 52. End of KFC founder’s rank 53. Right half of a DOMINO 54. Once ___ blue moon 55. Components of all of this puzzle’s theme foods 62. All together now 63. Christmassy word that literally means “to be born” 64. Geometry calculation 65. “___always meet each other with a smile” (Mother Theresa) 66. Northflowing African river 67. The only person to be both President and Chief Justice 68. Ballpark figs.

69. The Sound of Music filming locale 70. Otherwise

1. Volumizing hairstyle 2. Wander through Graceland 3. Part of an archipelago 4. Conversion of tickets to prizes at the arcade 5. Southpaws 6. Canal connecting the Hudson and Niagara rivers 7. It was first called BankAmericard 8. “You boo the players you hate;___the ones I like” 9. Mideast ruler 10. East African 11. Headache reliever (or environmental headache) 12. One each of the Carolinas and Dakotas 15. Embassy employee 20. Zilch 21. TV’s Warrior Princess 25. Tavern 26. Game with Skip and Reverse cards 27. 18-wheeler 28. Trig. function 29. “This one’s ___” (It’s not my fault) 30. Bony plate at the top of your mouth 35. For the Corvair, Chevy put them in the back 37. Babe Ruth had 168 in 1921 39. Letters on a promissory note 40. Start of KFC founder’s rank 41. Hi-fi component 43. Provide a care package 45. Eaves droppings 47. Discounted 48. Many peanut butter cups 49. She wrote two sequels to Little Women 50. Female name meaning “God is gracious” 51. Record producer Brian 56. Burden of proof 57. Provoke 58. Website that tracks more than 200 million product reviews 59. Like some vaccines 60. Whistle blowers 61. Satisfy an appetite

Answers on page 24.

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — J U N E 2 0 2 1

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Respondents to classified advertising should always use caution and their best judgment.

EMPLOYMENT & REAL ESTATE ADS: We will not knowingly or intentionally accept advertising in violation of federal, state, and local laws prohibiting discrimination based on race, color, national origin, sex, familial status or handicap in connection with employment or the sale or rental of real estate.

Business & Employment Opportunities NON-PROFIT MANAGER The Village In Howard, Inc., is a grassroots, community-based organization powered by volunteers from its membership of Howard County residents age 55+ choosing to age in place, seeks a creative, dynamic, and tech-savvy leader as Manager.

The Manager is responsible for the Village’s daily administration and communications to help the Village increase its membership and grow financially. This is a part-time position (30hours/week). To apply, please e-mail resume and cover letter to TVIHapplication@thevillageinhoward.org no later than May 28, with Application in subject line. The full job description and knowledge and experience required is available on the TVIH website (www.thevillageinhoward.org) under the tab About Us. A HEALTHY SENIOR IS LOOKING for work like companionship, house sitting, gardening, dogs, or anything similar. Please leave a message. 301-442-0581.

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Housing

Zinger Chair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Recovered from COVID Study . . . . . . . . . . . .10 UM Sleep Study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 NIH Diet Study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Senior/Government Services

2021 Beacon Virtual 50+Expo . . . . . . . . . . . .18

Alta At Regency Crest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 Brooke Grove . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14-15 Charlestown/Erickson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Enterprise Residential . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 Park View Apartments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 Shriner Court . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

Funeral Services

Medical/Health

Cremation Society of Maryland . . . . . . . . . . .17 Going Home Cremation & Funeral Care . . . . .5 Harry H. Witzke’s Family Funeral Home, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 MacNabb Funeral Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 Sol Levinson & Bros., Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25

Age Well Senior Fitness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Dr. Jeannine George-Richardson, DPM . . . . . .9 Kaiser Permanente . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Medical Eye Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Natural Care Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1 Pro Bono Counseling Project . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

Home Health Care

Retail

A-1 Action Nursing Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Options for Senior America . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Columbia’s Village Centers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Perfect Sleep Chair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28 Perfect Walker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

Events

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BeaconSilverPages.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 COGS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 Howard Co. 50+ Connection . . . . . . . . . . .12-13 Howard Co. Library System . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

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

Theater/Entertainment Columbia Orchestra . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 Columbia Pro Cantare . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 Toby’s Dinner Theatre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23

Travel Superior Tours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21

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New: subscribe online! See how on p. 22

J U N E 2 0 2 1 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

Make your home more comfortable than ever

“To you, it’s the perfect lift chair.

To me, it’s the best sleep chair I’ve ever had.”

— J. Fitzgerald, VA

NOW also available in Genuine Italian Leather (and new Chestnut color)

Three Chairs in One Sleep/Recline/Lift

Pictured: Genuine Italian Leather chair chestnut color.

You can’t always lie down in bed and sleep.

Heartburn, cardiac problems, hip or back aches – and dozens of other ailments and worries. Those are the nights you’d give anything for a comfortable chair to sleep in: one that reclines to exactly the right degree, raises your feet and legs just where you want them, supports your head and shoulders properly, and operates at the touch of a button.

Our Perfect Sleep Chair® does all that and more.

More than a chair or recliner, it’s designed to provide total comfort. Choose your preferred heat and massage settings, for hours of soothing relaxation. Reading or watching TV? Our chair’s recline technology allows you to pause the chair in an infinite number of settings. And best of all, it features a powerful lift mechanism that tilts the entire chair forward, making it easy to stand. You’ll love the other benefits, too. It helps with correct spinal alignment and promotes back

ACCREDITED BUSINESS A+ pressure relief, to prevent back and muscle pain. The overstuffed, oversized biscuit style back and unique seat design will cradle you in comfort. Generously filled, wide armrests provide enhanced arm support when sitting or reclining. It even has a battery backup in case of a power outage.

White glove delivery included in shipping charge.

Professionals will deliver the chair to the exact spot in your home where you want it, unpack it, inspect it, test it, position it, and even carry the packaging away! You get your choice of Genuine Italian leather, stain and water repellent custom-manufactured DuraLux™ with the classic leather look or plush MicroLux™ microfiber in a variety of colors to fit any decor. New Chestnut color only available in Genuine Italian Leather Call now!

The Perfect Sleep Chair®

1-888-566-2452 REMOTE-CONTROLLED EASILY SHIFTS FROM FLAT TO A STAND-ASSIST POSITION

Please mention code 115078 when ordering.

Genuine Italian Leather

Chestnut

classic beauty & durability

Long Lasting DuraLux™

Mahogany (Burgundy)

Tan

Chocolate

Blue

Burgundy

Cashmere

Chocolate

Indigo

stain & water repellent

MicroLux™ Microfiber

breathable & amazingly soft

Because each Perfect Sleep Chair is a made-to-order bedding product it cannot be returned, but if it arrives damaged or defective, at our option we will repair it or replace it. © 2021 firstSTREET for Boomers and Beyond, Inc.

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Footrest may vary by model