June 2022 | Fifty Plus Richmond by The Beacon Newspapers

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JUNE 2022 • VOL. 26, NO. 6 • FREE

JUNE 2022 — FIFTYPLUS

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Saying goodbye Many readers will remember that I be- the Capital Area Agency on Aging, that ancame publisher of Fifty Plus about six chored us in the community and supplied important funding. years ago, when its founder Under the leadership of the and long-time publisher, late Dr. Thelma Watson, SenMark Fetter, passed away. ior Connections converted its Mark was a colleague, a felformer publication, which had low member of the Nor th been mailed three times a American Mature Publishers year to 16,000 people, into a Association (which represents publications for readers 50 and more topical, informative over). monthly newsletter reaching It came as a surprise to me 35,000 people every month when I learned from Mark inside Fifty Plus. that he had but weeks to live FROM THE This public-private partnerand was looking for a way to PUBLISHER ship continued through continue this paper, his legacy. By Stuart P. Rosenthal COVID, helping keep Fifty I publish another newspaPlus afloat economically, even per for readers over 50, named the Beacon, as the region’s other regular publication with three editions in the Baltimore/Wash- for older readers, Boomer Magazine, disington region. I told Mark we would do our continued its print edition. best to maintain and even expand the But then Dr. Watson passed away last paper he had run for nearly 20 years. year after a brief illness. And the new leadSo, we took over, and quickly grew the ership of Senior Connections, evaluating monthly circulation to 35,000 copies, avail- its options, informed us last month that able free of charge at more than 350 distri- they had decided to end our partnership. bution sites throughout RVA. At the same time, the costs of printing Many long-time advertisers remained and distributing 35,000 copies have quickwith us, and we worked hard to add new ly risen in recent months, and these two ones. But it was the monthly four-page factors have put Fifty Plus out of business. We are sorry to leave Richmond without pull-out section for Senior Connections,

a publication of

The Beacon Newspapers, Inc.

Editorial Mission: Fifty Plus is dedicated to providing readers with accurate information, professional guidance, and useful resources. Our publication is intended to both reflect and enhance fifty-plus lifestyles, and to encourage

a monthly print publication for both its older readers and advertisers who seek to reach them. I also feel bad for having let Mark Fetter down. But I know we certainly gave it a good try. Those of you who would like to continue reading the kind of health and financial articles we gather from the best sources nationwide, and the travel and arts features our freelancers produce, can continue to find such stories each month in our other publication, The Beacon. You can read it free online at our website, theBeaconNewspapers.com, or you can subscribe to the print edition for $12/year. (Visit thebeaconnewspapers.com/subscription.) I want to thank our entire Beacon staff whose extra efforts have made Fifty Plus possible these past six years. In particular, I want to thank Gordon Hasenei, our executive vice president, for taking charge of its printing and distribution throughout RVA; Margaret Foster, our managing editor, who has kept our Richmond cover stories and arts features lively and local, to-

gether with Catherine Brown, our Richmond-based assistant editor; Lisa BentonHawkins, our Richmond advertising representative, and our office staff, including Kyle Gregory, art director, Roger King, our director of operations, and Ashley Griffin, our online content manager. I also want to thank the freelance writers who supplied so many of our local stories over the years: Glenda Booth, Diane York and Martha Steger. Plus, our monthly garden columnist, Lela Martin (who tells us she hopes to be combining her columns into a book), and the VCU school of pharmacy, whose students have long supplied our Dr. Rx column. Last, but certainly not least, I want to thank all of you — our readers and advertisers — for your support and encouragement. We have been honored to serve you these past six years and are sad to say farewell.

Letters to the editor Dear Editor: I have read many editorials addressing the Aduhelm dilemma, but yours (“Alzheimer’s drug saga,” From the Publisher, May) was by far the best, condensing information and common sense into a very understandable article. And I picked it up at Wawa! Your article is the first time that I have heard that CMS is considering rolling back the “Aduhelm premium increase.” It is troubling that a single drug, even if it works, can hold a multitrillion dollar operation hostage. Thank goodness CMS brought some reason to the table and severely limited coverage for a drug that probably really

reader dialogue and input.

M A R K YO U R C A L E N D A R

June 15

No portion may be reproduced in whole or in part by any means without

doesn’t work even in a limited fashion. My family has dealt with Alzheimer’s, and I understand the enthusiasm for anything that will help even a little bit (as with many new cancer therapies). I just don’t believe this is one of them. I will continue to look for your publication. Jeffery Schul, MD Midlothian, VA From the Publisher: Thank you for your letter and your praise. As you can see, this will be the last issue of Fifty Plus, unfortunately. But you are welcome to continue reading my monthly columns, and the health and money stories from our other publications, online at theBeaconNewspapers.com.

VIRTUAL FORUM ON LUPUS The Society for Women’s Health Research hosts a free virtual

the express written consent of the publisher. The views and opinions ex-

forum on the impacts of lupus on women’s health and accessing treatment. This

pressed by writers and columnists do not necessarily represent those of

event takes place June 15 from 12 to 1 p.m. For more information and to regis-

Fifty Plus or its staff.

ter, visit bit.ly/SWHRonLupus.

Publisher/Editor — Stuart Rosenthal President/Associate Publisher — Judith K. Rosenthal

June 29

Executive Vice President — Gordon Hasenei Managing Editor — Margaret Foster Art Director — Kyle Gregory Director of Operations — Roger King Assistant Editor — Catherine Brown

GALLERY TOUR Tour the galleries of the Valentine Museum and learn about the history of Richmond’s Lost Cause monuments and how the power of

art, money, politics and people have affected the region’s landscape and residents. This free event (after paying museum admission of $8 for age 55 and over) takes place Wed., June 29 from 1 to 1:45 p.m. Registration required. For more information and to register, visit bit.ly/ValentineMuseumTour or call (804) 649-0711.

Advertising Representatives — Lisa Benton-Hawkins, Dan Kelly, M.K. Phillips Content Manager — Ashley Griffin

June 24

PARTNERING WITH POLLINATORS Master Gardeners of Northern Virginia is hosting a free virtual conversation about best gardening practices for pollinators on

Fri., June 24 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Register at bit.ly/MGNVEvents to receive a Zoom link. Call (703) 228-6414 with questions.

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FIFTYPLUS — JUNE 2022

Cover Story Lawyer works to restore Chesapeake Bay

Margaret Sanner has been nicknamed Peggy since age six. She grew up in Cumberland, Maryland, received her Bachelor of Arts degree from Swarthmore College,

Humans and pollution “All human activities generate pollution, like nitrogen and phosphorus, beyond what’s normally in the environment,” she explained. Much of that pollution ends up in the Bay. One glaring example of how human activities degrade the Bay is stormwater. “Polluted stormwater runoff flowing off impervious surfaces like urban and suburban streets is rising,” Sanner pointed out.

M A R K YO U R C A L E N D A R

July 7

LEARN MICROSOFT EXCEL

Learn how to use Microsoft Excel in this workshop that takes place at the Libbie Mill Library Digital Media Lab on Thurs., July 7 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. For more information and to register, visit bit.ly/ExcelHCPL or call (804) 501-1940.

June 28

VIRTUAL DANCE CLASS

Join AARP for a free virtual dance class, and learn the fusion of dance styles popular in Bollywood movies. This event takes place Tues., June 28 from 7 to 8 p.m. For me information and to register, visit bit.ly/BollywoodAARP.

Rainwater pushes trash, nitrogen, phosphorus, fecal bacteria, viruses, petroleum products, toxic metals and road salt into waterways, for example. The extra nutrients in runoff cause algae to bloom, multiply and die, which leads to dead zones in the Bay, insufficient oxygen for fish to survive, and fewer underwater grasses to grow, according to Sanner. And more and more development “threatens the forested areas that keep our cities cool,” she said. CBF scientists have developed some of the most highly sophisticated models to help understand the Bay’s condition. The experts analyze pollution, chemistry, underwater grasses, fish, amphibians, farming practices and microplastics, for example. Climate change is exacerbating many of the Bay’s Peggy Sanner, Virginia executive director of the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, advocates with legislators and problems. “The impacts of works with her staff on a multistate plan to clean up and climate change — more fre- restore the health of the Bay. quent and intense storms, rising waters and increased flooding — threaten the progress already is, hands down, an expert on the state and achieved, especially in underserved com- federal laws that provide the tools to clean munities,” Sanner said. See CHESAPEAKE BAY, page 5 Sanner's peers admire her passion. “She

MAIL OR FAX FOR FREE INFORMATION For free materials on housing, just complete and clip this coupon and mail or fax it to Fifty Plus. ❏ Dominion Place (see ad on page 5) ❏ Guardian Place (see ad on page 6) ❏ Long & Foster/David Mize (see ad on page 5) ❏ St. Mary's Woods (see ad on page 9) ❏ Tuckahoe Pines (see ad on page 7) Name_____________________________________________________________

Ongoing

HELP WITH CAREER PLANS

The Office of Community Wealth Building brings career planning services to the Broad Rock and Hull Street branches of the Richmond Public Library on Wednesdays from 2 to 4:30 p.m. Call (804) 6466464 to make an appointment.

Ongoing

JAZZ MUSIC

The Dominion Energy Jazz Café returns to the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts with free jazz performances on Wednesdays from 6 to 8 p.m. For more information, call (804) 340-1405.

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Maryland roots

a master’s degree from the University of Pennsylvania, and a law degree from Rutgers University. Her husband, Carl Tobias, teaches torts and constitutional law at Virginia Commonwealth University. She started as a staff attorney at CBF in 2010. Prior to that, she worked in commercial litigation at several law firms. She had her first opportunity to be an environmental litigator at a Montana firm on a case involving municipal landfills that were contaminating groundwater. Her second case was a highway widening near Las Vegas which would lead to more cars and hence more pollution. Sanner now leads the Foundation’s efforts to use science, the law and advocacy to achieve a healthier Bay. She helps implement the Chesapeake Clean Water Blueprint, an overarching plan prepared by the six Bay states and Washington, D.C., to reduce pollution. Sanner also leads legal and advocacy efforts in Virginia — filing lawsuits when needed, negotiating settlements and persuading elected officials to support cleanup efforts.

PHOTO COURTESY OF KENNY FLETCHER, CBF

By Glenda C. Booth Peggy Sanner lives “in the woods” in Henrico County, but her heart is in the Chesapeake Bay. Sanner is the executive director of the Chesapeake Bay Foundation’s (CBF) Virginia operations, headquartered in Richmond. She supervises 25 employees who work in Richmond, Virginia Beach, Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley and Eastern Shore. (CBF’s main office is in Annapolis, Maryland.) Her dream is a healthy Chesapeake Bay, a waterbody that holds about 18 trillion gallons of water. Around 18 million people live, work and recreate in the 64,000 square-mile watershed that stretches 524 miles from Cooperstown, New York, to Norfolk, Virginia. But the Bay is a “system dangerously out of balance,” according to the CBF website. Its blue crab populations have hit a record low, the lowest count since tracking began in 1990, a May survey reported. Oyster harvests have declined to less than one percent of historic levels. And while Bay water quality and vegetation have improved, the Bay got a D+ grade in 2021. To Sanner, these metrics, while disappointing, are challenges that get her out of bed every day, motivating her to make the Chesapeake Bay’s recovery the world’s greatest success story.

JUNE 2022 — FIFTYPLUS

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Health Fitness &

SNEEZY SEASON Treat allergies early next year with over-the-counter pills or drops KIDNEY DISEASE Early kidney disease has no symptoms, but simple tests can diagnose HELP SAVE THE BEES Protect pollinators by planting what they like and minimizing pesticides YOU ARE WHAT YOU EAT You may be able to reduce chronic pain by changing your diet

Why antioxidants matter; get from food By Carrie Dennett Antioxidants are a nutrition topic that’s had staying power for decades as other nutrition trends come and go. Why? Because although antioxidants can be overhyped at times, there is actual substance behind the hype.

What antioxidants do Antioxidants neutralize free radicals — substances that occur naturally in the body but can damage cells and DNA. “Antioxidants are simply compounds that protect cells against oxidation — or the effects of free radicals — and they’re found all around us, in many types of foods and drinks,” said Seattle-based registered dietitian nutritionist, Ginger Hultin, MS, RDN, author of Anti-Inflammatory Diet Meal Prep and How to Eat to Beat Disease Cookbook. Hultin points out that the body is in constant flux and needs antioxidants to help naturally quench the oxidation that occurs by simply living — breathing, metabolizing, detoxing.

“These processes create natural free radical damage, and the balance is that we get antioxidants from the foods we eat,” she said. Our bodies do a pretty good job of keeping free radicals in check by producing their own antioxidants. But poor diet and exposure to cigarette smoke, pollution, radiation and environmental toxins can produce more free radicals than your body can handle. The resulting oxidation can accelerate aging and increase the risk of heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease and cancer. Counterintuitively, antioxidants in excess can also be oxidant, but oxidation isn’t always bad, said Michelle Averill, PhD, RDN, an associate professor of occupational and health sciences at the University of Washington. “It’s all a system, and we need oxidants and antioxidants in balance,” she said. “When our body increases oxidants, it’s not always negative. Sometimes oxidants are a response to something happening in our system and it tells our body to do something.”

Multi-tasking properties We sometimes refer to certain nutrients and phytochemicals as antioxidants, but it’s more accurate to say that they have antioxidant properties. For example, vitamin C plays a role in the production of collagen, neurotransmitters and certain amino acids in the body — and it also functions as an important antioxidant. “Vitamins and minerals contain antioxidants — including beta-carotene and vitamins C and E — but there are actually thousands of antioxidant compounds,” Averill said. “For example, all the types of polyphenols in tea, coffee, berries and chocolate. They’ve got flavanols, proanthocyanidins and anthocyanins, among many others.” The minerals selenium and manganese also have antioxidant properties, and that’s only the tip of the iceberg. Averill said there may be hundreds of thousands of compounds with antioxidant properties.

plements? The short answer is no, in part because you can have too much of a good thing. There was a lot of excitement about antioxidant supplements in the 1990s, until researchers found that large doses actually increased some health risks — such as increased lung cancer risk in smokers taking beta-carotene — or simply did not deliver on hoped-for benefits. It’s almost impossible to get too many antioxidants from food, however. And there’s no evidence that taking antioxidant supplements works as well as eating antioxidant-rich food. “It’s not that we specifically take X micronutrient to increase antioxidants in our bodies. It’s that we eat the foods that support the antioxidant balance in the body,” Averill said. “You can’t overcome an imbalance of antioxidants and oxidants through supplements, but there are definitely dietary pat-

Get via food or supplements? Should you get antioxidants from sup-

See ANTIOXIDANTS, page 6

Want to get genetic testing? First ask why By Robert H. Shmerling, MD When it comes to health and disease — and, of course, many other aspects of life — one thing is certain: genes matter. A single gene mutation can cause conditions such as sickle cell anemia or cystic fibrosis. More often, multiple genes are involved in disease development, and they act in concert with nongenetic factors, such as diet or exercise, to affect disease risk. Several companies offer you the opportunity to look at your genes. But how might that help you from a health standpoint? And how do such tests differ from the genetic testing a doctor may recommend? Consider the example of familial hypercholesterolemia (FH), a condition in which multiple variants of several different genes lead to markedly high cholesterol. This greatly increases the risk of heart attack, stroke and other health problems. FH affects about one in 300 adults, which means it isn’t rare. Among adults who have the most common genetic variants that cause it, heart attack or sudden cardiac death may occur in middle age. Children who have a double dose of a gene variant linked to this condition may die of

cardiovascular disease before age 20. Treatments to reduce the risk of complications, such as cholesterol-lowering drugs, are available if a child or adult is known to have a mutation linked to FH.

Genetic testing is on the rise In recent years, there’s been a dramatic increase in genetic testing. It was nearly unheard of only a few decades ago. Now, you or someone you know has likely had genetic testing within the last year or two. And while healthcare providers can now order far more genetic tests for their patients than in the past, you don’t need a doctor’s order to request this. Testing companies like 23andMe, Ancestry.com and others are ready and willing to check your genes for variants associated with certain health conditions, as well as your family ancestry. In fact, spending on direct-toconsumer genetic testing is predicted to reach $2.5 billion within the next few years.

Sometimes, tests are lifesaving Is testing useful? For some people, the answer is clearly yes. When performed accurately, genetic

tests can uncover a disease or a tendency to develop certain conditions, and it can lead to close relatives getting tested as well. Preventive measures or treatment can be lifesaving. Here are four examples (though there are many more): Hemochromatosis. This is a genetic condition in which too much iron is absorbed from the diet. The extra iron can harm important organs like the heart and liver. Once a person is diagnosed, phlebotomy (blood removal, similar to what happens during blood donation) and avoiding iron supplements can prevent serious complications such as diabetes and liver failure. Prenatal testing. For people planning pregnancy or who are already pregnant, genetic testing is available to check for many conditions, such as cystic fibrosis and Down syndrome. Cancer. A number of genes are known to increase the risk of certain cancers. Testing may be especially important for people with a family history of these cancers. Perhaps the most well-known are BRCA mutations, which increase the risk of breast, ovarian and several other types of cancer.

People who don’t know their family’s medical history. A person who is adopted and has no information about family medical problems may learn from a test they are at increased risk of a preventable disease, such as heart disease or colon cancer. In these cases, knowing you might develop a condition or are a carrier can help direct medical care, and may inform life decisions or encourage you or other family members to consider genetic counseling.

Tests can be misleading In other cases, testing is problematic. Results of genetic testing may provide information you already know, may be unhelpful, or may even be misleading. For example, testing could reveal that you have a genetic mutation that rarely causes any health problems. Learning that you have this mutation may not help you — though it might alarm you. Or, learning you’re at increased risk for developing Alzheimer’s disease late in life may be more upsetting than useful, as there are currently no reliably effective See GENETIC TESTING, page 5

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FIFTYPLUS — JUNE 2022

Chesapeake Bay From page 3 up the Bay,” said Ann Jennings, former Virginia Deputy Secretary of Natural and Historic Resources for the Chesapeake Bay.

Legislative challenges Sanner sees as her toughest challenge communicating the Bay ecosystem’s complexity and the multiple factors that affect water quality. Some Richmonders, for example, likely do not readily realize that what they do on the land “ends up” in the James River and ultimately in the Bay.

Genetic testing From page 4 preventive treatments. Genetic testing may have more than one kind of cost. A genetic test ordered by your doctor for a specific medical reason may be covered by your health insurance, but it’s unlikely that an over-the-counter test will be. And, as one company states on its website, “knowing about genetic risks could affect your ability to get some kinds of insurance.”

When tests are not reliable A study on testing for a genetic cholesterol disorder had some surprising results.

The oldest sections of the city have century-old wastewater pipes that combine raw sewage and stormwater. Heavy rainfall can create an overflow of untreated sewage into waterways — what state Senator Siobhan Dunnavant told the Richmond Times-Dispatch are “brownouts, where you can’t go into the James River.” Sanner describes her advocacy in the state legislature as “very challenging.” Her goal is “to help legislators understand why clean water and air are important to their districts,” she said, so she tries to find common ground. It can be especially challenging to help a legislator from Virginia’s Shenandoah Val-

ley understand why farming practices or deforestation in that region can adversely affect the Bay. After one of those legislators from the western part of the watershed visited the Bay, he said, “I get it.” Sanner relished that success. She is the legislators’ “go-to” person on all things Bay, according to Jennings. “Peggy is an effective and inspirational advocate for clean water, clean air and a restored Chesapeake Bay. She consistently works across the aisle to broker innovative, common ground solutions to complex natural resource challenges. “Having witnessed Virginia legislators

often asking, ‘What does Peggy recommend?’ it’s clear that Peggy is CBF in the General Assembly.” Sanner loves being outside, as she reminiscences about her childhood in the mountains of western Maryland. She gets out on the water whenever she can, and decompresses by reading and baking bread. “Leading the Chesapeake Bay Foundation in Virginia as it works to restore the Chesapeake Bay is an immense privilege,” she said. “I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to work with Virginians in enhancing and protecting our natural resources, our vibrant communities and our quality of life.” So are many others.

This 2021 study published in JAMA Cardiology demonstrates how direct-to-consumer testing may be misleading. The researchers looked at genetic testing for familial hypercholesteremia. They compared the results from a comprehensive panel of genetic testing ordered by doctors (which included more than 2,000 gene variants) with results from the more limited genetic testing (24 variants) provided by 23andMe. Among more than 4,500 people tested for a medical reason, such as evaluating an unexpectedly high cholesterol level, the more limited testing would have missed important genetic variants for: —nearly 70% of study participants

—nearly 94% of Black and 85% of Hispanic individuals —about a third of Ashkenazi Jewish individuals This suggests that a large number of people would be falsely reassured by the results of their genetic tests for FH if they relied on the type of screening offered by a popular over-the-counter product. And results may be particularly unreliable among persons of color. In many cases, it’s best to review your

decision to have genetic testing with your doctor before having it done. You may choose to see a genetic counselor about the ramifications of testing before you jump in, and let your doctor do the testing, rather than ordering it yourself. Or, you may decide the best plan is no testing at all. Dr. Shmerling is a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing. © 2022 Harvard University. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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How to get relief from allergy symptoms By Howard LeWine, M.D. Q: I am struggling with more allergy symptoms than usual this spring. There are so many over-the-counter products available. How does one choose? A: Before choosing a medication, it helps to understand what’s causing your allergies. Often, it’s a matter of inhaling a harmless substance, such as pollen or another allergen, which the immune system mistakenly perceives as a dangerous invader. The immune system generates substances designed to fight the assumed invader. One of these substances is histamine, which triggers inflammation of mucous membranes and the production of mucus (lots of it). This condition, called allergic rhinitis, is marked by a stuffy or runny nose, watery

Antioxidants From page 4 terns that will promote a balance and patterns that would promote an imbalance,” Averill said.

or itchy eyes, sneezing, coughing and sometimes a sore throat.

OTC treatments to start If you haven’t tried an antihistamine yet, start there. Choose one of the second-generation over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamines, such as fexofenadine (Allegra), loratadine (Claritin), or cetirizine (Zyrtec). Compared with first-generation antihistamines, like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) and chlorpheniramine (Chlor-Trimeton), the newer ones are less likely to make you drowsy. Antihistamine eye drops, such as ketotifen (Zaditor), can be used for watery eyes. If an antihistamine isn’t resolving your symptoms, you can add a corticosteroid nasal spray. OTC versions include budesonide (Rhinocort), fluticasone propionate

“However, it’s difficult to say that it’s all diet. If someone is eating an unhealthy diet and has an imbalance, the culprit could also be environmental factors.” Each antioxidant serves a different function and is not interchangeable, so it’s impor-

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If you can anticipate seasonal allergy symptoms next time, start using the corticosteroid nasal spray before symptoms typically begin. Potential side effects include nose bleeds and higher eye pressure related to glaucoma. Non-prescription decongestants, such as pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) or phenylephrine (Neo-Synephrine, Sudafed PE), shrink tiny blood vessels, which decreases fluid secretion in the nasal passages, helping to relieve a stuffy nose. Check with your doctor if you have

heart or blood pressure problems, as decongestants can raise heart rate and blood pressure. All of the products mentioned above are available as generic versions, which are usually less expensive. If you’re still having symptoms, or if you’re concerned about side effects, it may be time to consult your primary care physician, an allergist, or an ENT (ear, nose and throat specialist). Sometimes it takes trial and error to find the best combination of medications to relieve your symptoms. And if nothing is controlling them, there are still more options, including allergy shots that can change how your immune system responds to allergens. © 2022 Harvard University. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

tant to get an array of antioxidants, fiber and other nutrients from food. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans and lentils, nuts and seeds, herbs and spices, coffee and cocoa, and green and black tea all have antioxidant compounds. The common denominator? They’re all plant foods. “People would be amazed at how many antioxidants they can get naturally through

food,” Hultin said. “Simply eating more common foods like carrots, apples, onions or parsley, for example, can provide a wide array of potent antioxidants.” Reprinted with permission from Environmental Nutrition, a monthly publication of Belvoir Media Group, LLC, 1-800829-5384, EnvironmentalNutrition.com. ©2022 Belvoir Media Group. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

(Flonase), and triamcinolone (Nasacort). The downside is that corticosteroid sprays take two weeks or more for their full effect. That can be tough when you’re coping with symptoms.

Next year, start meds early

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FIFTYPLUS — JUNE 2022

Simple tests can ID silent kidney disease By Family Features When people are unexpectedly diagnosed with chronic kidney disease (CKD), their lives can be turned upside down. CKD, which is the gradual loss of kidney function, strikes Americans at a faster rate than any other non-contagious disease. When diagnosed early, kidney disease can often be treated so that it does not worsen into kidney failure (which can be fatal). However, with no symptoms in the early stages, CKD often goes undiagnosed until the late stages. To survive with kidney failure, people must either receive a kidney transplant or start dialysis care, which involves a machine filtering their blood on a regular basis. The wait for a transplant can be three to five years or more, and 13 Americans die

every day waiting to get off the kidney transplant waitlist.

No early symptoms Most people with kidney disease do not know they have it because they do not have any symptoms until their kidneys are badly damaged. The only way to know how well your kidneys are working is to get simple blood and urine tests, which a doctor can order at your annual physical. Testing is especially important if you have diabetes or high blood pressure. When caught and treated early, it is often possible to slow or stop the progression of kidney disease and avoid serious complications like heart attack, stroke, kidney failure and death.

Some at higher risk People of all races and ethnicities are equally likely to develop kidney disease; however, people of color are more likely to reach kidney failure. Black Americans make up just 13% of the U.S. population, but they account for 35% of Americans with kidney failure. Hispanic/Latino people are 1.5 times more likely to progress to kidney failure than non-Hispanic white people. Native Americans are twice as likely to go into kidney failure as white Americans. Asian Americans are 1.3 times more likely to go into kidney failure. The higher risk for kidney failure in these communities is in part due to higher rates of diabetes and high blood pressure, as well as to a lack of access to timely preventative care.

M A R K YO U R C A L E N D A R

June 21

June 19

RESEARCH FAMILY HISTORY In this free Zoom presentation hosted by Mount Vernon

People in regions where there is a scarcity of healthcare resources can experience higher instances of kidney failure. An estimated 22% of people with kidney failure live in rural areas. People with later stage kidney disease who live more than 100 miles away from a dialysis center are more likely to die than people who live closer. As a patient, you have the right to understand everything about your health. Talk with your doctor about risk factors, testing options, prevention strategies and available treatment options. If you feel your concerns are not being heard, you have the right to get a second opinion. To learn more about kidney disease or improving health equity in kidney care, visit KidneyFund.org.

JUNETEENTH CONCERT In celebration of Juneteenth, St. James’s Episcopal Church is

Genealogical Society, Claire Kulskens, who is an expert on genealogy and census

hosting a free concert on Sun., June 19 at 5 p.m. Performers include renowned

records for the National Archives, will demonstrate how family history researchers

organist Dr. Carl Haywood and The Celebration Ensemble, made up of alumnae of

can use the census to learn more about their relatives. This event takes place

Norfolk State University and St. James’s Choir. For more information, visit

Tues., June 21 from 1 to 3 p.m. For more information, visit mvgenealogy.org.

bit.ly/StJamesConcert or call (804) 355-1779.

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Why I went to great lengths to save bees By Lela Martin This year, when my dad died, my parents’ Kentucky home became my responsibility. Unfortunately, in the past few months, I’ve discovered not only termite activity and a brown recluse spider infestation, but a honeybee hive within the walls of the house. Resolving these insect problems properly is of critical importance — not only to me, but to the bees and, by extension, to our environment.

Essential pollinators Bees are essential to the production of our food. From apples to zucchini, bees are responsible for pollinating the fruits, vegetables, seeds and nuts essential to our diets. While honeybees are not native, they provide the heavy load of pollinating our food sources, making possible $15 billion in value of U.S. crop production — half of the country’s agriculture industry.

Use and misuse of pesticides Pesticides are also important to agricultural production. Pesticides include herbicides necessary to reduce weeds and control invasive plants, as well as insecticides to combat species that destroy crops or transmit disease.

Typically, it is the misuse and overuse of pesticides that lead to negative ecological and human health consequences. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is charged with balancing the risks and benefits of pesticide use. Insecticides that are toxic to termites, spiders and mosquitoes also kill native bees, European honeybees, and other pollinators. Plants we have deemed “weeds” that are treated with herbicides in yards and fields may serve as food sources for honeybees as well as food sources and/or larval host plants for wild pollinators, including monarch butterflies.

Ill effects on bees According to EPA scientists, honeybees are exposed to pesticides through direct contact and consumption of tainted nectar or pollen. This exposure can affect individual bees and entire bee colonies. The Xerces Society reports that a study shows more than 90% of pollen samples from bee hives in agricultural landscapes are contaminated by at least one pesticide. Why is this a problem? Honeybees are social creatures with a complex set of behaviors. Forager bees identify pollen and nectar sources, return to the hive, and

Bees are extremely important to our ecosystem, pollinating both flowers and food crops that are essential to our economy. Beware of using pesticides and insecticides that might harm them or their food sources.

communicate the food location to the colony. Nurse bees participate in brood rearing and care. Of concern are published reports of chronic neurotoxicity to bees posed by the widespread use of the neonicotinoid family of pesticides in particular. Bees exhibit a wide range of sensitivities to the different

neonicotinoid compounds, which affect their brains. Additionally, pesticide direct spray and soil application methods affect the queen bee’s strength and forager bees’ lifespans. Therefore, it was important to me — See BEES, page 9

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

July 9

JAMMIN’ ON THE JAMES

Enjoy an outdoor summer concert by The Whiskey Rebellion on the grounds of the Wilton House Museum on Sat., July 9 from 6 to 8 p.m. Tickets cost $5 in advance; $10 at the door. For more information, visit bit.ly/JamminontheJames. Call (804) 282-5936 with questions.

June 25

FULTON GREEN FEST

The Fulton Green Fest takes place Sat., June 25 from 12 to 6 p.m. on Parker Street between Williamsburg Rd. and Carlisle Ave. For more details, visit fultonfest.org.

June 25

HONEY BEE FESTIVAL

The Rockwood Park Backyard Beekeepers host their 11th annual Honey Bee Festival on Sat., June 25 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Rockwood Park Nature Center. Buy honey from local vendors, enjoy live music and food trucks, and learn more about bees. For more information, visit rockwoodbeekeepers.com.

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FIFTYPLUS — JUNE 2022

Bees

Moving honeybees (carefully)

From page 8 and it is incumbent on us all — to protect these valuable and vulnerable creatures.

Needed: beekeeper and new hive So, before I could tackle the spiders and termites, I had to find a beekeeper to safely remove and rehome the bees that had been living in my father’s house since at least 2019. The beekeeper, a member of the Kentuckiana Beekeepers Association, was experienced at removing swarms from inside structures. Although we noticed the bees entering through a gap between the brick and the wooden molding around an exterior window, he suggested removing the bees from inside the house due to predicted inclement weather. With an infrared heat sensor, he spotted a warm area above the dining room window that he identified as the hive. Bees keep the nursery between 91°F and 97°F during much of the year (much warmer than the ambient air temperature).

The beekeeper set up a plastic sheeting barrier from floor to ceiling to create a partition in the part of the dining room where the window was. Next came the scaffolding to allow him access to the area above the large double window. Finally, he donned a protective bee suit (and provided one for my husband in case of an emergency). Once he cut into the drywall, he found an extensive honeycomb filling the entire cavity — at least seven feet across and 14 inches deep with approximately 10,000 bees. (As a note, this was not the largest hive he had ever extracted.) Wearing protective gear and using a vacuum, he sucked the bees into a portable temporary hive box. The bees were docile at first. He then removed the portion of the comb with the honey and stored it in a plastic bin. He finally extricated the comb where the young (eggs, larvae, and pupae) were being cared for by the nurse worker bees. The bees became more agitated the closer he got to the queen. Both inside and outside the home in the

M A R K YO U R C A L E N D A R

June 28

area above the window, he sprayed an almond oil concoction that makes it difficult for the bees to breathe; however, it has a very pleasant scent to humans. The purpose of the spray is to repel the bees from returning to the same location.

New home for the bees He had a six-hour window to get the bees and honeycomb nursery into frames in a permanent manmade hive, which was on his property, about 30 minutes away. He wasn’t able to determine if the queen had survived, ensuring a successful colony relocation, until several days later. Of the approximately 10,000 bees, he found only 50 had died in the removal and relocation

process. The latest report is that the colony is thriving. Now that the bee colony is safely ensconced in its new location, a professional exterminator can tackle the termite and brown recluse problems, which will require the safe and labeled use of pesticides. Note: Thank you to Mike Hofelich of “Save the Honey Bee.” Lela Martin is a Master Gardener with the Chesterfield County office of the Virginia Cooperative Extension. She invites everyone to learn more about the importance of pollinators at the 10th annual Bumblebee Jamboree on June 18 at Maymont Children’s Farm.

M A R K YO U R C A L E N D A R

June 26

BECOMING A GRANDPARENT A lot has changed since you first had children! Learn how to care

for your grandchild and support new parents in this workshop at St. Francis Medical Center in Midlothian on Sun., June 26 from 1 to 4 p.m. The cost is $10 per set of grandparents. Register by visiting bit.ly/Grandparents101.

July 2+

SILVER SCREEN SATURDAYS On Saturdays in July, Henrico County’s Gayton Branch Library shows free family-friendly films from 3 to 5 p.m. in the Meeting

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS

Room. The movie for July 2 is “20,000 Leagues Under the Sea.” For more infor-

Learn how to prepare for emergencies and minimize the impact of

mation, visit bit.ly/SaturdaySilverScreen or call (804) 501-1960.

emergencies and disasters in this free class at Ettrick Recreation Center, 20261 Woodpecker Rd., on Tues., June 28 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. To register, visit chesterfield.gov/parks or call Tiffani Davis at (804) 706-2596.

Ongoing

POWHATAN VILLAGE FARMERS MARKET The Powhatan Village Farmers Market takes place on Thursdays through September from 4 to 6:30 p.m. on the grounds of

Bienvenue, 3841 Old Buckingham Road.

MEDICARE 101

A Medicare Scholar Presentation Wednesday, June 22 • 10 am – 11 am Attend our free program and learn how to make confident, educated decisions about your Medicare plan from Mike Mason, owner of Mike Mason Insurance, LLC. Hosted by Our Lady of Hope. Space is limited! RSVP to Connie Salinas at 804-360-1960 or csalinas@ourladyofhope.com by Monday, June 20. Co-sponsored by our local sister community:

804-360-1960 • ourladyofhope.com 13700 N. Gayton Rd. • Richmond Coordinated Services Management, Inc. Professional Management of Retirement Communities since 1981

Are You A Veteran? +

Sitter & Barfoot Veterans Care Center is a Long-Term Care & Short-Term Rehab Facility that opened in January 2008. This facility was built specifically for our Virginia Veterans. Located conveniently on the campus of the McGuire VA Medical Center in Richmond, Virginia, this state-of-the-art facility is owned and operated by the Virginia Department of Veterans Services.

Fitness & Health | More health stories at www.theBeaconNewspapers.com

JUNE 2022 — FIFTYPLUS

Low inflammation diet fights chronic pain That’s because pain, whether it’s acute or chronic, results from inflammation, and what you eat and drink can either stimulate or quell inflammation. In fact, research strongly suggests that your diet can contribute to inflammation throughout your body.

By Densie Webb The idiom “you are what you eat” is well accepted when it comes to increasing or decreasing your risk for heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, obesity, and some types of cancer. But it may come as a surprise that research increasingly suggests that what you put on your plate can either increase or decrease pain that stems from osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia, bursitis and migraines, and can even potentially impact chronic lower back pain.

The diet/pain connection While research shows a connection between diet and pain, exactly how it works isn’t completely understood yet. However, it’s believed that a poor diet

M A R K YO U R C A L E N D A R

June 27

MEDICARE BASICS Learn how to make the best Medicare decisions in this workshop at the West Point Branch of the Pamunkey Regional Library on

Mon., June 27 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. For more information, call (804) 843-3244.

July 4

FREE GARDEN ADMISSION JULY 4TH Enjoy free admission to Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden on Mon., July 4 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, visit

bit.ly/LGBGFree or call (804) 262-9887.

Ongoing

VIRTUAL MEMORY SCREENINGS The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America offers free virtual and confidential memory screenings every weekday. Call (866) 232-8484

or visit bit.ly/AFAScreening to schedule an appointment.

that’s high in saturated fats, sugar and highly processed foods that are low in nutrients can negatively affect your immune system, contributing to chronic inflammation which, in turn, can trigger pain. Some studies have even found that the immune system can react to an unhealthy diet in the same way it responds to an infection — with inflammation. Chemicals, such as cytokines, neuropeptides, growth factors and neurotransmitters, are produced by the body in response to your diet, and affect whether you experience pain, where you experience pain, and to what degree.

Diet prescription for pain A review of studies on diet and chronic pain published in The Journal of Clinical Medicine found that sticking to a healthy diet, such as the Mediterranean diet, is linked to lower levels of markers of inflammation found in the blood. The Mediterranean diet is a plant-based diet, rich in whole grains, dark green leafy vegetables, nuts, legumes and fruits. These foods are all rich in nutrients that the immune system needs to function at its peak. The diet also includes olive oil and fatty fish, like salmon and sardines (rich in omega-3 fatty acids, a fat that has been found to ease inflammation).

Eating a plant-based diet is not a quick fix or a cure-all for pain, but it could help and it certainly won’t hurt. In fact, sticking to a plant-based diet can offer even greater health benefits, such as a reduced risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and some types of cancer. In other words, a diet to reduce your risk of experiencing pain due to inflammation can reduce your risk of several diseases and improve your overall health.

What to eat, avoid In your diet, there are many foods to include and several to limit or avoid. Eat more: Whole grains; beans; nuts; seeds; soy; berries; cherries; yellow, orange, and red vegetables; Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, cabbage, broccoli, onions and garlic; salmon, herring, anchovies, sardines and mackerel; plain yogurt; spices, including cinnamon, ginger, turmeric, rosemary, cayenne pepper; tea; dark chocolate. Eat less: Fruit juice; sugar-sweetened sodas; sweets, such as cakes, cookies, pastries, muffins, donuts, brownies, pies and puddings; processed meat, such as ham, bacon, sausage and lunch meat; fried foods. Reprinted with permission from Environmental Nutrition. © 2022 Belvoir Media Group. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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FIFTYPLUS — JUNE 2022

Couscous makes a quick, creamy ‘risotto’

Pearl couscous ‘risotto’ with asparagus Start to finish: 30 minutes

Servings: 4 Ingredients: 4 tablespoons (½ stick) salted butter, cut into 1-tablespoon pieces 1 medium yellow onion, chopped Kosher salt and ground black pepper 3 medium garlic cloves, thinly sliced 1 cup pearl couscous ¹/³ cup dry white wine 1 pound asparagus, trimmed and cut on the diagonal into ½-inch pieces; reserve the stalks and tips separately 1 ounce Parmesan cheese, finely grated (½ cup), plus more to serve ½ cup lightly packed fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped, plus more to serve Directions: In a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat, melt 3 tablespoons of the butter. Add the onion and ½ teaspoon each salt and pepper, then cook, stirring, until it begins to soften, 3 to 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook, stirring, until fragrant. Add the couscous and cook, stirring often, until it begins to brown. Pour in the wine and cook, stirring, until the pan is almost dry, about 1 minute. Add 3 cups water and ½ teaspoon salt, then cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes. Stir in the asparagus stalks and cook, stirring, for 3 minutes, then stir in the asparagus tips. Continue to cook, stirring, until almost all the liquid has been absorbed and the asparagus is tender, about another 2 minutes.

PHOTO BY MILK STREET.

By Christopher Kimball Classic risotto is made with starchy, medium-grain Italian rice, such as Arborio or carnaroli. It is toasted then cooked, sometimes slowly, over low heat as broth is ladled into the pan in stages. While the liquid absorbs, the cook stirs, stirs and keeps stirring. This “risotto,” from our book Cookish (which limits recipes to just six ingredients without sacrificing flavor), uses pearl couscous (which actually is a pasta) and higher heat to produce “grains” with a rich, creamy consistency. Much as with rice, stirring releases starch from the couscous that thickens into a creamy sauce, and the “risotto” finishes in the time it takes to cook pasta. The wheaty flavor of pearl couscous (sometimes called Israeli couscous or ptitim) is a perfect match for grassy, subtly sweet asparagus and the salty, nutty flavor of Parmesan cheese. We reserve the asparagus stalk and tip pieces separately; they’re added at different times because they cook at slightly different rates. Don’t use especially thick or particularly slender asparagus for this recipe; pencil-sized spears will be perfectly tender when the couscous is done.

This healthy “risotto” is made with pearl couscous, so it doesn’t require constant stirring.

Off heat, add the Parmesan, parsley and remaining 1 tablespoon butter, then stir until the butter melts. Taste and season with salt and pepper. Serve sprinkled with additional Parmesan and parsley. Christopher Kimball’s Milk Street in-

cludes a magazine, cooking school, TV and radio shows and bold, fresh recipes. Check Amazon or bookstores for the book Milk Street: Cookish: Throw It Together: Big Flavors. Simple Techniques. 200 Ways to Reinvent Dinner. —AP

M A R K YO U R C A L E N D A R

Ongoing

NATIONAL SUICIDE PREVENTION LIFELINE

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline provides free support 24/7 for anyone in distress and can be reached at 1-800-273-8255. Beginning July 16, people across the United States can access the Lifeline by dialing 988.

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on Aging

Our Farewell Issue Over the past few years Senior Connections has enjoyed bringing you news, community activities, health tips, and information about services for older adults and people with disabilities. Going forward, we look forward to expanding our engagement with you in other forms of media. This, however, is our farewell edition of the Engage at Any Age Newsletter. We sincerely want to thank Fifty Plus, all of

our contributors, the entire Senior Connections staff, and our readers. It has been a pleasure to write for you. Senior Connections will always be committed to serving you and we will continue to be Your Area Agency on Aging. We will continue to offer a comprehensive range of Home and Community-Based Services for older adults, caregivers and persons with disabilities in the City

of Richmond and the counties of Charles City, Chesterf ield, Goochland, Hanover, Henrico, New Kent, and Powhatan.

Senior Connections is a Nonprofit agency and most of our programs and services are offered at little to no cost if you qualify. For more information or to see a list of

our community services please visit seniorconnections-va.org

Beware of Social Security Scams By Jacqueline Weisgarber Scammers go to great lengths to trick you out of your personal information. We want to help you protect your information by helping you recognize a Social Security imposter. There’s a widespread telephone scam involving callers claiming they’re from Social Security. The caller ID may even show a government number. These callers may tell you there’s a problem with your Social Security number. They may also threaten to arrest you unless you pay a fine or fee using gift cards, pre-paid debit cards, a wire transfer or cash. That call is not from us. If you receive a suspicious call from someone alleging to be from Social Security, please: • Hang up right away. • Never give your personal information, money or retail gift cards. • Report the scam at oig.ssa.gov

to Social Security’s law enforcement team at the Office of the Inspector General. Social Security will not: • Threaten you. • Tell you that your Social Security Number has been suspended. • Call you to demand an immediate payment. • Ask you for credit or debit card numbers over the phone. • Require a specific means of debt repayment, like a prepaid debit card, a retail gift card, or cash. • Demand that you pay a Social Security debt without the ability to appeal the amount you owe. • Promise a Social Security benefit approval, or increase, in exchange for information or money. • Request personal or financial information through email, text messages or social media. Social Security will: • Sometimes call you to confirm you filed for a claim or to discuss other ongoing business you have

with them. • Mail you a letter if there is a problem. • If you need to submit payments, mail you a letter that will have detailed information about options to make payments and the ability to appeal the decision. • Use emails, text messages

a n d s o c i a l m e d i a t o p ro v i d e general information (not personal or financial information) on its programs and services if you have signed up to receive these messages. Please share this information with your family and friends. Weisgarber is Social Security Public Affairs Specialist in Richmond.

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Senior Connections, CAAA

JUNE 2022 — FIFTYPLUS

Empty Plate Campaign Senior Connections is proud to announce the official launch of our 2022 Empty Plate Campaign! Last year your donations to the Empty Plate Campaign helped improve the lives of Central Virginia’s older adults and people with disabilities. Since then, requests for assistance have increased dramatically and we know that you, like we, want to do everything possible to meet the critical needs of this community. Your

contribution and the additional donations you generate erve memallow us to serve bers of our community. Empty Plate onaCampaign donations truly fill a need. Essential h services such as Food, in Home gency Care, Emergency ansporServices, Transpor-

tation, & Activities to Reduce Social Isolation are provided thro through Empty Plate Campaign donati donations. Senior Connections provides t these serv vices as no co to eligicost o ble older adults pe and people with disabilit disabilities. Thank

If you are over 65, it’s especially important to protect yourself from COVID-19.

Get vaccinated today. Learn more at vaccinate.virginia.gov or call 877-VAX-IN-VA

you for joining us in improving the quality of life for many in our area and empowering individuals to live with dignity. Your vital contributions, volunteer efforts, and advocacy truly make a huge impact. Please join us in making important differences in the lives of Central Virginia’s older adults, people with disabilities, and caregivers. Visit seniorconnections-va.org for more information.

For decades, research has distinctly suggested that volunteering our time results in positive health outcomes in our bodies, minds, and spirits, such as reducing stress and improving mood. In short, when we do good, we feel good. According to the Corporation for National and Community Service, volunteerism can even support our own cognitive health. As our brains are engaged in volunteer activities from which we derive purpose and joy, we meet new people and deepen existing relationships that sustain us at any age. Volunteering can also contribute to “Ikigai” or sense of purpose, the Japanese term referred to often in The Blue Zones. During the pandemic, volunteer opportunities have changed. It’s important to consider how best to comfortably re-engage with volunteer opportunities that bring such joy! If you’re interested in volunteering your time, the Longevity Project for a greater Richmond would be happy to help you! To connect with us please email info@longevityrva.com

FIFTYPLUS — JUNE 2022

Senior Connections, CAAA

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Ride Connection Celebrated with History Makers Award T

he Valentine Museum honored the tireless work of the Ride Connection team with the Richmond History Makers Award. The Valentine Museum’s Richmond History Makers Award honors and celebrates the unsung work of individuals and organizations who strive to improve their communities. The services Ride Connection provides have been put in place to further

the Agency’s Vision, "Seniors with improved quality of life” and Mission, “Empowering seniors to live with dignity and choice." “Each year, we’re proud to celebrate Richmonders who give so much to our community, but this year is exceptional, as all our honorees made significant contributions during a difficult time,” said Bill Martin, director of The Valentine. “The pandemic and

the ongoing movement for racial justice have exposed critical issues in the Richmond area, and this resolute group of people decided to help their neighbors rather than be crushed by the challenges facing our society. They are worth celebrating for improving people’s lives and creating a stronger Richmond for generations to come.” Senior Connections’ Ride Connection team was honored to be one of the recipients of this award at the Valentine’s 17th Annual Richmond History Makers Award

Ceremony held at Virginia Union University on March 8, 2022. Ride Connection began serving the community through Senior Connections in 2011 and is funded through a grant sponsored by the Virginia Department of Rail & Public Transportation (VDRPT). What started as a one-woman (Margaret Robinson) operation has expanded to six Agency employees serving clients across Planning District 15. Planning District 15 refers to properties located in any locality comprising Planning District 15 which includes the counties of Charles City, Chesterfield, Goochland, Hanover, Henrico, New Kent, Powhatan, the City of Richmond and the Town of Ashland.

Pictured at the Valentine Museum’s 17th Annual Richmond History Makers Awards Ceremony are (left to right) Amy Strite (Executive Director, Senior Connections), Patrick Hickey, Jean Adams, Cora Dickerson, Angie Phelon and Colleen ilhelm.

ony Williams has served as Mobility Program Manager since 2016. He is responsible for preparing the Agency’s annual funding application to VDRPT as well as submitting quarterly performance measurement data to the funder. He also represents the Agency at community and regional events, serves on transportation advisory-steering committees and builds/maintains partnerships with transportation providers and administrators in Planning District 15. He is a leading player in running the Human Services Transportation HSTCE Steering Committee hosted and sponsored by Senior Connections and PlanRVA. The mission of the HSTCE is “To improve connection within the community for people of all ages and abilities by expanding

safe, reliable, accessible, and affordable transportation options.” The vision is “All residents in the region enjoy an enhanced quality of life due to improved access to transportation options.” The committee meets at least every quarter and is comprised of community stakeholders from Ashland, Richmond and the counties of Charles City, Chesterfield, Goochland, Hanover, Henrico, New Kent, and Powhatan. In October 2021, DRPT launched a new online resource called Transportation Navigator, a stage one One-Call/One-Click System, which includes web pages dedicated to providing complete information about transportation services in the Commonwealth of Virginia and a consolidated statewide GTFS direc-

tory that supports trip planning for public transit. The online address is https://drpt.virginia.gov/ transit/mobility-for-all/. Ride Connection is also supported by funds from United Way, the Older Americans Act, Community Foundation, Agency fundraisers, Covenant Woods, client contributions and Senior Connections’ annual Empty Plate Tony Williams, Mobility Program Manager Luncheon (held each year in Agency. Patrick plans to retire in October). This virtual transportation in- May (which will give him more formation bus is headed by Pat- time for baseball) and he will defirick Hickey, Senior Connections’ nitely be missed! No Wrong Door Services Director and a 38 year presence at the See Ride Connection, p. B-4

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Ride Connection from page B-3

ide Connection has not had a single day’s interruption in service since the pandemic began in March 2020. To adapt to the changing environment, they changed their approach to client service and their operational processes. They increased the number of transportation pro-

Senior Connections, CAAA

viders on their roster and added trips for COVID19 testing and vaccines, infusion and physical therapy, grocery shopping, and errands to places such as the post office and the bank. In a survey of Ride Connection clients conducted in March . . . • 93% of respondents said that Ride Connection helped them feel more confident in managing their transportation needs. This correlates directly

Monday through Friday from 8:30am to 4:00pm, ride counselors pull client calls from a central hotline (804) 672-4495, available 24/7/365 where clients leave messages requesting transportation services and information, and return those calls during normal business hours, always within 24 hours and usually within an hour or two. They provide transportation information to callers that is relevant to where each client lives. They can help clients navigate public transportation, such as GRTC’s fixed routes and the CARE Van. Ride Connection also contracts with transportation providers who transport clients who are ambulatory (i.e., can walk unassisted or use a walker or rollater) as well as clients who use manual, motorized or bariatric wheelchairs. Ride Connection is bringing on an additional third ride counselor in April.

JUNE 2022 — FIFTYPLUS

to Senior Connections’ mission to empower older adults. • 91% of respondents said Ride Connection improved their access to medical care and follow-up care. • 86% of respondents said they would miss some of their medical appointments without Ride Connection. • Almost 90% of respondents said getting a ride through Ride Connection was easy or very easy. Angie Phelon and Patrick Hickey • Almost 90% of respondents said Ride Connection staff are were satisfied with Ride Connection’s friendly or very friendly. service. • Over 90% of respondents said • 98% of respondents said they Ride Connection staff are responsive would recommend Ride Connection to requests. to a friend. • Over 90% of respondents said To receive printed information on their transportation provider was the Ride Connection or other transgood or very good. portation providers in the area, please • 91% of respondents said their call the Ride Connection Hotline at rides to medical appointments were (804) 672-4495 and leave your full reliable. name and phone number. They know • 95% of respondents said they it’s “more than just a ride.”

Assistance Program

FREE BOX FAN or A.C. UNIT For eligible Seniors

Program runs from from 5/1/22 to 9/30/22 Must be 60 years old or older Must need additional cooling in home Must meet household income requirements Income less than $1,699 per month for 1 person Income less than $2,289 per month for 2 people *City of Richmond Serving: *Hanover *Charles City *Henrico *Chesterfield *New Kent *Goochland *Powhatan Box Fan

CALL US TO APPLY

Window A.C.

804.343.3005

seniorconnections-va.org

*Program sponsored by Dominion Virginia Power

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FIFTYPLUS — JUNE 2022

Money

Law &

What’s behind the rise in gas prices? See story on page 14.

What are the safest places to invest now? Many who have invested in various For that reason, I don’t recommend addiforms of bond funds have been disappoint- tional new investments in bond funds/ETFs ed to see that, despite receivwith long maturities at this ing regular interest payments, time. Investments in short-term the value of their investment bond alternatives will have has decreased significantly in lower risk, but also lower yields. 2022. I have received quite a bit of mail from readers asking Certificates of deposit whether they should bail out Many readers have asked of bond funds and instead whether this is a good time to make new investments in be reinvesting proceeds from money-market funds, CDs or maturing CDs and funds from THE SAVINGS I bonds. savings accounts with low GAME Here are some considera- By Elliot Raphaelson yields into new CDs. As the Fed increases intertions you should take into acest rates, banks and credit unions will likecount: ly offer higher rates on CDs. I expect interest rates on CDs to increase gradually, so Bond funds The Federal Reserve has indicated that it would be prudent to invest in shorterfor the rest of the year it will raise interest term CDs now. As interest rates increase, rates several times in order to curb inflation. you can invest in longer-term CDs. As a result, if you have investments in One of the advantages of investing in bond mutual funds or exchange-traded funds CDs as opposed to bond funds now is that, with long maturities, it’s likely in the short as you redeem your CD at maturity, your run that the net asset value (NAV) of your in- principal is safe. In contrast, there is no vestments will decrease and that, even with guarantee that new investments in bond regular interest reinvested, the total value of funds, even in Treasury instruments, will your holdings may decrease in value. not decrease in value in the short term.

Money market funds If your main objective is to stay liquid while protecting your capital, you can invest in money market instruments. However, with inflation likely to stay at high levels in the short run, the returns you receive will not keep pace with inflation.

I bonds (inflation-protected bonds) As I have written in many recent columns, investing in Series I bonds has a significant advantage now, as well as one disadvantage that I don’t think is significant. The major advantage is the high rate of return with no capital risk. For the six months starting May 2022, I bonds will be paying 9.62% in interest. After October, there will be a new rate, based on the updated consumer price index. Although the next new six-month rate may be lower than 9.62%, you can be sure that the rate of return will be higher than the return from CDs or money-market instruments. Individuals can purchase up to $10,000 each calendar year and they must be bought through the U.S. Treasury at TreasuryDirect.gov. Married couples can invest $20,000 per year. In addition, you can

invest an additional $5,000 per year using a tax refund. The main disadvantage of investing in I bonds is liquidity. Once you purchase an I bond, you can’t sell it for 12 months; if you do sell it in less than five years, you lose three months of interest. You cannot lose money on your investment in I bonds. When you compare investing in I bonds to investing in CDs, savings accounts and money-market instruments, I bonds stand out as a superior choice for conservative investors (as long as you can accommodate the one-year holding period).

Treasury bills and notes For short-term investments, you can purchase Treasury bills directly from TreasuryDirect.gov without a brokerage account. You can invest in bills that mature in six or 12 months. The recent rate for sixmonth bills was almost 1.5%, and the 12month rate was 2.07%. Another option is the two-year Treasury note yielding 2.71% as of the time of publication. Elliot Raphaelson welcomes your questions and comments at raphelliot@gmail.com. © 2022 Elliot Raphaelson. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Guaranteeing income in uncertain times By Elliot Raphaelson I have discussed single-premium immediate annuities, or SPIAs, in previous columns. They have features that are very important because of the uncertainty in the stock and bond markets, and because some politicians would like to reduce future Social Security benefits. When stock markets were bullish for several years, some investors expected equity prices to always go up. Because of the current volatility in equities, reality has set in and investors now know that equity prices don’t always increase. Also, because of inflation and the Federal Reserve’s recent actions to increase interest rates, investors have seen bonds fall significantly in value. So, investors now recognize that, because of the current uncertainty in the equity and bond markets, it makes sense to look at alternatives that, like definedbenefit pensions and Social Security,

offer a guaranteed income stream.

Consider annuities SPIAs are such an alternative. There are many different forms of annuities. Some are complex, and some have high commission costs. In contrast, the single-premium annuity is easy to understand, does not have high hidden commission costs, does provide a guaranteed income stream, and is independent from market fluctuations. The simplest explanation of SPIAs is that you provide a fixed sum to a life insurance company, and the company pays you guaranteed income for life (or for a specific time frame that you specify). SPIAs are not a new product. They have existed for hundreds of years. Stan Haithcock (aka Stan the Annuity man), an annuity expert licensed in all 50 states, points out that SPIAs are “commodity” products. “No one is better than the other,” he ex-

plained. “You have to shop for the best contractual deal for your situation.” If you contact him (stan@theannuityman.com), indicating your age and the amount of your investment, he can let you know the income you can receive from toprated insurance companies, for specific variables. You can also run these quotes at his site, using an SPIA calculator (stantheannuityman.com/spia-calculator). Haithcock believes you should not allocate more than 50% of your investable assets to an annuity. Some of the advantages of SPIAs are: they are easy to understand; they have no annual fees; the commissions (built in) are minimal; and the income you receive is contractual and not dependent on market conditions. You may elect an inflation option (cost of living adjustments), such as a 3% increase in income each year. But this option would result in a lower income initially. For example, if you were entitled to a $524 monthly

payment without a COLA, a 3% COLA would decrease your monthly payment to $374 (which would increase 3% per year).

Three main options There are three primary options: “life only,” “life with a period certain,” and “cash refund or installment payment.” The life-only option provides the highest monthly payment. You can elect that for yourself only as long as you live, or for you and your spouse for as long as he/she lives. Naturally, the monthly income will be lower if your policy covers both of your lifetimes. If you elect life with a certain period, you can indicate that you want to be covered for a specified minimum period. The longer the term certain, the lower the monthly payments. For example, you might consider other life-insurance coverage when choosing how See ANNUITIES, page 14

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What is making the price of gas so high? By Jim Patterson As gasoline prices keep climbing, many frustrated drivers might be asking, “Who controls gas prices?” The short answer is: No one person, company or government can really be said to set gas prices. But it is possible to break down some of the major factors that go into determining the cost of a gallon of gas. Let’s take a look.

Crude oil The Department of Energy has a handy chart that breaks down the major expenses involved in turning crude oil in the ground into the refined gas you can put in your car. The biggest, accounting for a bit more than half the price you pay, is the price of crude oil — the raw material from which gas is refined. Unfortunately, the price of that raw ma-

Annuities From page 13 long to receive your annuity. If you had a term life-insurance policy that would pay proceeds to your spouse for 20 years, you might elect a shorter specified time frame for your

terial has been on a tear for over a year now, bringing gas prices higher with it. West Texas Intermediate crude now trades for about $110 per barrel. A year ago, it was only $65 per barrel. In 2020, during the depths of the recession caused by COVID-19, WTI prices briefly turned negative because global oil demand fell so fast that oil storage facilities filled up with unwanted oil. Since then, global oil demand has come roaring back, but global oil output has been slower to recover from the cuts that OPEC and many energy companies implemented. Unfortunately, there’s little sign of oil prices dropping much, which makes it hard to say when gas prices will go down.

Taxes The next biggest factor determining gas

annuity (say, 10 years) because you knew that if you died after 10 years, your named beneficiary would receive the benefits of your life insurance policy. In the meantime, during the next 10 years, you would receive a higher monthly income from your annuity. The life with installment option offers

Farewell from Fifty Plus.

prices, according to the Department of Energy, is gas taxes — specifically, the state, local and federal taxes levied on fuel. No one loves paying taxes, but they can’t be blamed for the recent run-up in gas prices. The 18.4-cent-per-gallon federal tax on gas hasn’t been increased in about three decades. Some states, including Maryland, actually cut or suspended their own gas taxes briefly in an attempt to give motorists some relief. Sadly, those reductions haven’t done anything to keep the average price of gas from hitting new records.

The remaining factors controlling gas prices are a mix of related costs: refining crude into gasoline and other fuels, transporting it to stations by pipeline and truck,

and marketing it. This bucket of costs includes refiners’ profits on turning barrels of oil into barrels of gasoline, and these days, those profits are soaring. Some refineries closed due to the slump in fuel demand during the pandemic, which means bigger profit margins for those that remain in operation, now that demand is strong. If you want to share in some of those profits as an investor instead of just funding them as a driver, consider Valero, Phillips 66 or PBF Energy stocks. Maybe they will provide some comfort during your next expensive fill-up. [Ed. Note: Or invest in solar or wind energy.] © 2022 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

the highest lifetime payment while guaranteeing that 100% of your initial premium will go to whomever you specify. The beneficiary(-ies) would receive payments over time of the remaining premium not already paid out to you. With the life with cash refund option, your beneficiaries would receive a lump sum of the difference between the initial premium and the amount received in

monthly payments. This is the second highest guarantee while insuring 100% of your initial premium. Bottom line: If you want to ensure regular guaranteed income in retirement but are not sure your investable assets will provide it, you can consider using an SPIA for contractually guaranteed monthly income. © 2022 Elliot Raphaelson. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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Down market suggests Roth conversion By Andrew Rosen While a down market may not be a fun time for investors, there are some bright spots and opportunities to be had. Stock market drops like we’ve seen recently might make a Roth IRA conversion more appealing as a strategy for investors. Should you consider converting a traditional IRA to a Roth during a down market? There are a few things to consider.

What is a Roth conversion? When you have a traditional IRA, those are pre-tax dollars that you’re investing. While the money grows tax-free in the IRA, when you later go to take a withdrawal, every dollar you pull will be taxed at your current rate for income (not capital gains). With a Roth IRA, you invest alreadytaxed dollars, which not only grow tax-free in the Roth, but are tax-free (along with any gains) whenever you withdraw them, as long as you are at least 59½ and follow a few other rules. So, there is a lot of value to a Roth. However, when you convert a traditional IRA to a Roth, you need to turn those pre-tax IRA dollars (and any gain to date) into post-tax Roth dollars at the time. That means when you trigger a Roth conversion, you’ll be responsible for paying that year the tax due on any pre-tax contributions or earnings

within the traditional IRA.

Conversions in a down market When the market has dropped, it’s likely your IRA value has dropped along with it. Since the value of your IRA has gone down, you’ll be paying less taxes on the current value than you would have a few months ago when the market (and your IRA’s value) were higher. That suggests you can probably convert a larger portion of your IRA in a down market than you could in years when the market is up. It’s important to work with both a financial adviser and your tax professional to determine not only the amount of tax you’ll owe during the year that you perform the Roth conversion, but also how long it would potentially take you to break even.

Pros of a Roth conversion Converting from a traditional IRA to a Roth has many potential benefits for investors. As noted above, because a Roth IRA allows for dollars to grow tax-free, all the growth is also tax-free. There are also no RMDs, or required minimum distributions, on a Roth IRA. With a traditional IRA or 401(k), you have a set minimum you must withdraw each year once you hit the age of 72, but Roth

IRAs do not have this requirement. Tax rates are still relatively low, historically, which means now is as good of a time as any for a Roth conversion, from a tax perspective. Another benefit of having a Roth IRA is that it gives you a different “bucket” of income to pull from in an effort to keep your taxes as low as possible during retirement. Roth IRAs also benefit your spouse and heirs at inheritance time, as the tax-free benefits pass along to them in various ways, depending on the time limit and amount, and their relationship with you, the deceased.

A few cautions Roth IRA conversions have other costs. There’s the five-year rule, where you must wait five years after a conversion before

making a withdrawal or else you could incur a 10% penalty. Keep in mind that this fiveyear rule only applies to those who are younger than 59½. Triggering a Roth conversion will also increase your adjusted gross income (AGI) that year, which could increase your tax rate that year and possibly affect other issues, such as raising the cost of Medicare premiums (which go up for those with higher AGIs). The best way to determine if a Roth conversion is the right move for you during the down market is to work with a financial adviser and a tax professional so you can get feedback on your specific financial situation. © 2022 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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Travel Leisure &

A small museum explores the history of the Civilian Conservation Corps. See story on opposite page.

Hawaii’s green island soothes the mind plied in the wild. My favorite part of this resort on Poipu Beach was the proximity of a hiking path that stretches for about a mile north and a mile south. The path is delineated by a low wall of volcanic black rock leading all the way to the ocean. Walking this trail at dawn, listening to the morning songs of the birds, passing open meadows and patches of forest with tiny yellow birds (saffron finches) flitting about, and watching a slow, sweet sun rising, was my favorite morning treat. At the end of the path, you can get a latte at a coffee shop or check out the Whalers General Store. Across the street, walking through the Kiahuna Plantation Resort with its orchid garden and fish pond, you’ll find Poipu Beach. Thankfully, local laws guarantee free beach access to all. If you are up for it, you can connect with a surfing instructor there who will take you out past the reef and teach you to surf Hawaiian-style. In February, the weather was perfect, with highs in the 70s. The ocean was still chilly for me, but my family found Poipu Beach great for swimming and snorkeling. They saw eels, multicolored fish and a whale far off in the distance, its plume marking its route. A monk seal clambered

PHOTO BY HAWAII TOURISM AUTHORITY

By Diane York There is a saying that Hawaii is not a state of mind but a state of grace. I found that to be true during five perfect days in Kauai (Ka-wai’-ee, rhymes with Hawaii) last winter. People often tell you about their favorite vacation spot, describing it as heavenly. But none of the typical descriptors fulfill their promise as does Hawaii. It’s not just sun, beaches and surf. The native Hawaiians are mellow, the pace is slower than the mainland, and the air is magical. Of the Hawaiian Islands, Kauai is called the “green island.” And green it is — lush, abundant, fertile with flowers, plants and trees in abundance. On our first day there, we arrived weary, jet-lagged and a bit cranky. But the easy smiles and patience of the airport staff, and the soft breezes blowing through the airport, softened all that. We drove to the Pilli Mai Condo complex next to the expansive Kiahuna golf course. One of the first things I noticed was the abundance of roosters, hens and chicks that roam wild everywhere. The story is that Hurricane Iniki in 1992 blasted winds of up to 225 mph across the island, freeing chickens who happily multi-

PHOTO BY HAWAII TOURISM AUTHORITY

Tropical rainforests cover much of the lush Hawaiian island of Kauai. Not surprisingly, its vistas have served as the backdrop for dozens of Hollywood films, from South Pacific to Pirates of the Caribbean.

Spending an evening on a Kauai beach, or watching a sunrise over the water, make for a bucket-list vacation that doesn’t require a passport. Also known as Hawaii’s “garden island,” Kauai’s picture-perfect gardens, slow pace and mellow residents can make visitors never want to leave.

up the beach and made itself comfortable next to us. Later in the day, we drove to old Koloa town, where we bought groceries at the Safeway grocery store. Shipping goods to Hawaii inflates the cost; I was in sticker shock when I realized I had bought five bags of groceries for $400! We ate pizza and drank mango martinis that night at the Volcano Pizza restaurant across from Poipu Beach.

Cave adventure Twenty miles east of Poipu Beach is the spectacular Makauwahi Cave Preserve. This mammoth, two-story cave on the ocean exceeded all expectations. One of the Pirates of the Caribbean movies was filmed here. When Captain Jack Sparrow leaped from a high cliff, it was from the top of the Makauwahi Cave. An off-road vehicle is your best bet for driving there, as the rocks can tear up the bottom of a low-riding sedan. On your way, you will pass the CJM Country Stables, where you can rent horses to ride along the beach. A bit of an uphill hike through woods brings you to a stone wall with a small, triangular opening at the base. Taking a leap (crouch?) of faith, you must crawl on your

hands and knees into the cave. After about 15 feet, you can stand and find yourself inside a huge open area with tall palms reaching to the sky, surrounded by three-story cliffs. There is a feeling of having found the Lost World — and that at any moment, a pterodactyl might fly overhead and sweep you off your feet. The cave is considered to be the largest fossil area on the island, with 10,000 years of animals, plants, seeds and leaves preserved in its layers of sand, soil and sediment. There is also a preserve here where you can get eye to eye with several giant land tortoises. After that challenging hike, we visited Uncle’s Best Shaved Ice in the shops at Kukuiula shopping center on Poipu Road and ate mounds of pina colada shaved ice with a huge scoop of creamy, cold, vanilla ice cream on top.

Historic ‘Wild West’ village On day three, after a late brunch and dip in the pool, we drove the winding, scenic road up to the old town of Hanapepe. Hanapepe is called the “smallest big town in Kauai” and is known for its art galleries, bookstore and swinging bridge. See HAWAII, page 19

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Visit little-known conservation museum In 1933, President Roosevelt visited the Big Meadows Camp in today’s Shenandoah National Park. “I wish I could spend a couple of months here myself,” he told them. “The only difference between us is that I am told you men have put on an average of 12 pounds each. I am trying to lose 12 pounds.” The CCCers’ typical day involved a 6 a.m. rollcall or muster, breakfast, barracks inspection, and then work on projects like woodworking, ham (amateur) radio, ditchdigging, timbering and surveying. At 5 p.m., they returned to the barracks. They lowered the flag at 5:30 p.m., ate dinner at 6 p.m., and then had recreation or classes, where they learned subjects like first aid, math, biology and English. The recruits had a ninth-grade education, on average. A newspaper article at the museum relates the shame some may have felt in joining the CCC. Milton Cooper said that his father had opposed his son’s “enlistment” because it was widely seen then as “relief” or welfare. Enrollees were required to send $25 of their monthly $30 stipend home to their families. The remaining $5 seemed like a fortune, some said. Exhibits feature tools, CCC patches, a dress uniform and a replica of a denim work outfit. Visitors can read discharge letters and daily work records showing, for example, how much concrete was poured for building a dam.

Created the first state parks Virginia’s prominent role The first enrollee in the CCC was a Virginian: Henry Rich from Alexandria. In May 1933, he and his fellow first recruits met in Virginia’s Shenandoah County, near what would become Camp Roosevelt, establishing their home base there. By 1934, the CCC had 60 camps in the state, each with 200 men. Because most of public life in Virginia was racially segregated at that time, there were 48 “white camps” and 12 “colored camps” in the state. The CCC also worked in several recreation areas that became Virginia state parks — the Shenandoah National Park and the Blue Ridge Parkway. “In no state did the CCC make a greater or more lasting contribution to the wellbeing of its citizens than it did in Virginia,” wrote Mack H. Sturgill, author of the book Hungry Mother History and Legends. (Located in southwest Virginia, Hungry Mother is one of the original CCC parks.)

Exhibits describe daily life Today’s museum is housed in a former CCC camp: Camp SP24. Museum-goers learn how most enrollees lived — with 30 or 40 people in no-frills, military-style barracks heated by wood stoves. They were issued two sets of clothes, and ate meals in mess halls. The museum displays daily menus with dishes like oatmeal, roast beef, mashed potatoes and chocolate pudding.

One display relates that before 1936, Virginia had no state parks. Thanks to CCC workers, the state opened six, all on the same day: Douthat, Westmoreland, Hungry Mother, Fairy Stone, Staunton River and First Landing. “You have provided here in Virginia as fine a system of state parks as can be found anywhere,” CCC Director Robert Fechner said to the workers at the opening. First Landing State Park in Virginia Beach was built by the all-Black company in 1936. In 2008, the state unveiled a historic marker recognizing the men who labored mostly with picks and shovels to build more than 20 miles of trails, bathhouses and cabins, and planted trees and shrubs. At the ceremony, then 87-year-old Norman Claiborne told the group, “All up and down the roads in Virginia, there were signs for the white CCC camps. I thought it was a shame that we didn’t have a sign.” At today’s Prince William Forest Park, 77 miles north of Richmond, are trails, bridges and a number of surviving buildings constructed by the CCC, including five camp clusters with cabins built so that inner-city children can enjoy the outdoors. Millions of motorists today on the Blue Ridge Parkway can credit the CCC for the rustic stone walls at the overlooks. While having a meaningful job helped put bread on the table, importantly, it restored hope for a better day for almost 3.4 million young men during one of Ameri-

PHOTO BY VIRGINIA PARKS

By Glenda C. Booth As Congress considers a bill to create a Civilian Climate Corps, legislators might visit a little-known Richmond-area museum to study a much-lauded 1930s model. Nestled in the woods in Pocahontas State Park, 20 miles from downtown Richmond, is a museum dedicated to the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), a New Deal initiative that employed Americans from 1933 to 1942. The one-story, one-room wooden building was constructed by the CCC in 1939. In 1933, in the depths of the Great Depression, 13.6 million people were unemployed, reflecting an unemployment rate of nearly 25%. And few had any hope of finding a job. Shortly after his March 4 inauguration, President Franklin D. Roosevelt created a federal employment agency that would soon be called the Civilian Conservation Corps. Roosevelt had two goals: to employ young men so they could support their struggling families, and to protect and restore the nation’s natural resources. Called “Roosevelt’s Tree Army,” the CCC left its mark in every state. Over the course of nine years, enrollees built more than 40,000 bridges, planted two billion trees, restored nearly 4,000 historic sites and structures, improved thousands of beaches, roads and shorelines and created 800 state parks. The agency employed nearly 3.5 million men, 100,000 from Virginia, most of whom were between ages 18 and 25.

At the Civilian Conservation Corps Museum in Chesterfield, visitors can explore the history of this New Deal-era federal work program for young men. Millions of workers earned a living planting three billion trees and building 800 state parks throughout the country.

ca’s darkest times, the Great Depression. After visiting the CCC camp at Big Meadows, President Roosevelt commented, “I have seen the boys themselves, and all you have to do is look at them to see that the camps are a success.” The CCC Museum is located in Pocahontas State Park, 10301 State Park Rd., in Chesterfield, Virginia. There is an admis-

sion/parking fee to enter the park of $10 on weekends through October. The museum is open to the public on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. without additional charge. Coming soon is a new exhibit on the segregated Group Camp 7, an area that the CCC developed as a space for Blacks to recreate and experience nature. For more information, call (804) 796-4255.

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Hawaii From page 16 The charming town resembles a movie set for a Western, with wood frame houses dating back to the 1880s. The Hanapepe River passes through town, crossed by a 185-foot-long rickety footbridge. It’s only three feet wide and sways wildly, providing plenty of thrills. The view is gorgeous, though, with fish jumping in the river and the sun streaking the cliffs with gold. If you make it across, peruse the Bridge Art Galler y on the other side. The town bookstore, called Talk Story, is a delightful escape with an eclectic collection of art, gardening, non-fiction and fiction, and mystery books. It even has the robots from the 1990s TV show “Mystery Science Theatre 3000.” Talk Story has a unique collection of Hawaiian cultural items, too, including books written in the Hawaiian language. It’s the kind of bookstore you could spend a week in. Art galleries abound here, with paintings and photography of Hawaii and beyond. A cluster of restaurants just down the road serves Hawaiian pork ribs, salads and rice bowls. Garden tours Think Jurassic Park without the dinosaurs, and you can picture Allerton and McBryde Gardens in Koloa. The two gar-

dens together comprise about 380 acres of flowers, fruit orchards, forest, jungle, water features including waterfalls, streams, a gazebo and pool, ancient palms, enormous Moreton Bay Fig Trees, and monstrous tropical plants that look like they might eat you. Jurassic Park was, in fact, partly filmed here. National Geographic Traveler calls this place one of its “50 Places of a Lifetime.” A three-hour adventure of riding (a bus) and walking is well worth the $60 fee. The visitors center sign reads: “relax, connect and be inspired,” and I was. Back in Koloa we stopped at the Koloa Jodo Mission to view its traditional Japanese temple, whose lovely garden is known for its collection of lotus and water lilies. We had dinner at the Bangkok Happy Bowl and listened to a Hawaiian soft rock band while sharing four dishes: Bangkok coconut curry noodles, a Poipu Bowl, a cashew dish and fried rice.

Ziplining and Lydgate Beach Three people in our family wanted some action, so on day five, we went ziplining in Koloa. I watched in awe as they flew away over ravines and streams. They found it “absolutely exhilarating.” Ziplining is safe even for children. Wanting a different beach experience that afternoon, we drove 34 miles south to Lydgate Beach. Fallen trees are carried here from an inland river, creating “the

Driftwood Beach,” where you can find fantastic creations of ocean-sculpted wood. Two huge enclosed ponds protect you from the big waves, are full of colorful fish, and are perfect for safe swimming. We finished the day at the Roy Yamaguchi Eating House back in Koloa. Sizzling tataki ribeye and locally grown tomato and mozzarella salad. Yum. There is much, much more to do on Hawaii’s green island. Perhaps the best way to see the mountains, hidden valleys and waterfalls that dot the island is by helicopter. Most of these tours are based at the airport in Lihue. In addition, boat tours provide views of inaccessible cliffs and oceanfront caves. There are snorkel and scuba tours to enjoy the vast diverse creatures hidden in the ocean. In Hawaii, it’s possible to be outdoors

from sunrise to sunset with ideal weather most days of the year, which to me would be a perfect life. Others in my party remarked they felt 10 years younger after a week here. My visit was far too short. But when I need to, I can return to the state of grace that is Hawaii, if only through my memories. Aloha, heavenly island.

If you go Round-trip flights from Richmond to Kauai start at $1,075 on American Airlines. Kauai resorts range from Marriott and Sheraton Grand Hyatt to lesser-known and less expensive hotels. Poipu Beach is sunny year-round, while the Princeville area on the north side is a lush, occasionally rainy area. For more information, visit gohawaii.com.

M A R K YO U R C A L E N D A R

July 16

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Learn more about the history and methods of BBQ in this discussion led by Joe Haynes, author of “Virginia Barbeque: A History.” This free event takes place at the Chesterfield County’s Central Library on Sat., July 16 from 2 to 3 p.m. Registration begins on July 2 at bit.ly/CCPLVaBBQ. Call (804) 751-2275 for more information.

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More arts stories at www.theBeaconNewspapers.com

PHOTO BY VISIT RICHMOND

Style Arts &

Make an appointment to visit the Virginia Holocaust Museum. See story on opposite page.

Painter captures Richmond Symphony Where music meets canvas

PHOTO COURTESY OF MATT LIVELY

Many of us are used to seeing symphony musicians in a formal, buttoned-up setting, but Lively’s paintings of rehearsals provide an intimate view into the musicians’ creative process. In one painting, we see the musicians from behind, focused on the conductor, whose energy pulsates through the painting. At least one coat hangs on the back of a chair, and bags are scattered across the floor. Another scene, framed from above and behind the musicians, is itself a symphony of color and shape — the bright yellow floor punctuated by rectangular music stands and figures of musicians sinking into their chairs. “The orchestra is an immense thing, and it can be overwhelming,” Huszcza said. “Lively can capture these little bits, these little personal pieces of what’s going on, in ways that it’s really hard to do in any other capacity.” Throughout the project, Lively has observed parallels between his artistic process and that of the musicians. Both, for instance, make spontaneous changes during the creative process. “The labor comes in when [the musicians] have to make adjustments that the conductor wants to happen, and they get out of their comfort level enough to make something [different], to interpret the music in a new way,” Lively said. “And I’m doing the same thing in painting.” Unlike the paintings Lively creates in the studio, which are planned and developed on his time, the eight paintings he has created on the fly during rehearsals reflect what he hears and sees taking place in the moment. “When you’re there [in rehearsals], it’s like sensory overload with the music that’s playing,” Lively said. “What I’m hearing makes a slight difference in probably every brushstroke I make.” Lively tries to match the mood of the music as he paints Lively’s work is afRichmond Symphony musicians during rehearsals.

PHOTO COURTESY OF MATT LIVELY

By Catherine Brown For the past few months, a special visitor has attended the Richmond Symphony’s rehearsals in the Dominion Energy Center for the Arts. Situated in front of his easel, local artist Matt Lively, 50, has been painting images of one of Richmond’s celebrated artistic institutions. Lively began attending rehearsals after Amy Burhman, the Symphony’s assistant director for marketing and sales, contacted him about a potential artistic collaboration. Together they tossed around ideas of how to best celebrate Richmond’s vibrant arts community. During that conversation, Lively mentioned he had once painted symphony rehearsals while traveling in Colorado, and they decided he would do the same in Richmond, with the goal of selling the paintings at a pop-up show. The collaboration has fostered excitement and creativity on both sides. “It’s remarkably fun,” Lively said in an interview with Fifty Plus. The musicians feel the same way. “It’s a really interesting way of connecting what an orchestra is like into a whole other medium,” said Lacey Huszcza, executive director of the Richmond Symphony. “And it’s fun for the orchestra…they don’t often get to be the feature of paintings.”

This painting by artist Matt Lively captures the Richmond Symphony conductor’s careful concentration and movement during a rehearsal. Lively has created eight paintings so far, which he works on while the orchestra practices.

fected not only by the music he hears but also the rhythm of the rehearsals themselves. The musicians often start and stop, and Lively follows their lead, painting only when the musicians are playing. “I get interrupted with a stop, and then my thoughts kind of calm down,” Lively said. “And then [the musicians] go right back to it, so I have to go right back into it.” Those pauses both lend an energy to his painting and foster a sense of freedom for the artist, he explained. Compared to studio work, painting something as it is happening — whether in nature or at an orchestra rehearsal — is a “performative” act, Lively said. “You don’t think. You just react to what’s happening, and there’s little concern about what it will look like in the end,” he said.

The making of an artist Lively decided to become an artist in elementary school when he first saw the

movie Star Wars in the theater. “Five minutes into that movie, I wanted to do whatever it was they were doing,” he said. Soon after, his mother gave him a book about moviemaking, and he read that filmmakers sometimes hire artists to paint background sets. “I thought, all right, I can draw, so I’ll do that,” Lively said. “That will be the way I’ll get into moviemaking.” His mom then brought home more books, this time about artists Frank Frazetta and Francis Bacon. “They were probably in alphabetical order by first name,” Lively joked. Lively went on to major in sculpture at VCU. A rarity, perhaps, for living out his childhood dream, Lively has worked as a painter, sculptor, multimedia artist, teacher and independent film art director. Working on a variety of projects keeps Lively engaged. “I get bored if I’m doing See SYMPHONY, page 22

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FIFTYPLUS — JUNE 2022

Stories of loss and survival come to life

Artifacts and replicas tell story Visiting the Holocaust Museum is a vivid reminder of hate’s horrors as well as of human resilience, an immersion in the Nazis’ rise to power and rule from 1933 to 1945, when World War II ended. The museum’s entrance is lined with cobblestones from the Warsaw ghetto and two railroad lines from a spur that led to the Treblinka death camp, where an estimated 800,000 Jews were murdered. Inside the museum, videos and exhibits describe Germany’s concentration camps that imprisoned Jews and others, Kristallnacht’s 1938 mob violence against Jews and their businesses, and daily life in the Kovno ghetto. A replica ghetto house has food in the frying pan representing one weekly ration. A visual bright spot is a replica of the ornate Chore Shul, a Kovno synagogue. Among the museum’s 6,000 artifacts

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and 1,400 documents are a piece of original barbed wire fence from the Dachau concentration camp. The museum tells the Ipson family’s story, including their eventual settlement in Richmond. One poignant symbol is a remnant of the precious comforter that a young Jay (Yacob) Ipson, son of Edna and Israel, clutched throughout their journey. Jay Ipson, who huddled in the potato hole at age eight and arrived in New York at age 12, grew up to become one of the founders of the museum, along with the late Al Rosenbaum and the late Mark Fetter, the founder and long-time publisher of Fifty Plus.

PHOTO BY VIRGINIA HOLOCAUST MUSEUM

By Glenda C. Booth Millions of Ukrainians have fled their homes seeking safety from Russia’s February 24 invasion, and many have huddled underground across the country. Their experience reminds us that the Virginia Holocaust Museum’s core exhibit is especially relevant during these troubled times. Located in Shockoe Bottom, the museum opened in an unadorned former tobacco warehouse in 2003. Its main exhibit tracks the Ipson family’s escape during World War II from confinement in a 1943 ghetto in Kovno, Lithuania, to a Lithuanian Catholic family’s farm. There, the farm owners hid 13 Jewish people for six months in an underground food pit that the refugees called “the potato hole.” In the dark and damp bunker, adults could not stand up. They had one opening for air and daylight and were cloistered for months like “animals trapped in a dark cage,” Edna Ipson (formerly Eta Ipp) recalled. Their only amusement was watching mice, and their toilet was a bucket that they took turns emptying surreptitiously above ground at night.

A memorial to slain children The museum’s new Children’s Memorial honors the 1.5 million children who died in the Holocaust. It is a somber, mirrored “infinity classroom” with a chalkboard and five vintage, unoccupied wooden desks that replicate the school furniture typical of a German school in the World War II-era. One permanent exhibit is devoted to the Nuremburg trials where — through recordings, videos and life-like mannequins — visitors learn about the trials that began in 1945 of 185 Nazi Par ty of ficials and high-ranking militar y of ficers, along with German industrial-

The Virginia Holocaust Museum has been housed in a former tobacco warehouse since 2003. It was co-founded in 1997 by Mark Fetter, the late publisher and founder of Fifty Plus. Today, the museum is free and open to the public (though advance reservations are required).

ists, lawyers and doctors, all indicted for war crimes. The museum also houses oral histories — firsthand accounts of people who witnessed genocide during the Holocaust as

well as in genocides in Armenia, Cambodia and Rwanda. For more information, visit vaholocaust.org, 2000 East Cary Street, or call (804) 257-5400.

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Symphony From page 20

Sculptures, larger show planned Lively originally planned to sell his rehearsal paintings at a small pop-up show. The more time he spends with the musicians, however, the more inspired Lively has become to develop paintings of the musicians in the studio and perhaps even create related sculptural works. He hopes to prepare a larger show for the fall and plans to donate part of the proceeds to the Symphony. “I’m fascinated with what [the musicians] are doing. It’s like magic to me,” Lively said. “But at the end of the rehearsal, they come over to look at what I did,

and they are looking at it like it’s a magic trick.” To see more paintings Matt Lively has created at Richmond Symphony rehearsals,

visit his Instagram and Facebook accounts, @mattlively. You can learn more about the artist at mattlively.com and more about the symphony at richmondsymphony.com.

PHOTO BY VIRGINIA HOLOCAUST MUSEUM

something for a minute longer than three hours,” he joked. “I have to shift gears, and I’ll shift from painting to sculpture.” Painting on the spot is not new to Lively. He often paints en plein air (outdoors) and even teaches classes, aptly called “Painting Outside with Matt Lively,” for people who want to learn how to paint in nature. Lively’s classes and collaboration with the symphony make up only a fraction of his work. He may be best known for his paintings, particularly his murals and trademark “beecycle” images. His murals can be found at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, the Children’s Hospital of Richmond, the Dominion Energy headquarters, Hobnob in Lakeside, and Olde Town Petersburg, among other places. Lively also creates sculpture for public spaces. He is currently working on a piece

for Fulton Hill, and he has created public art installations throughout the city with artist Tim Harper as part of the collaborative Lively/Harper. One such project at Richmond’s Binford Middle School is not only a sculpture but also a functional rain-harvesting system.

JUNE 2022 — FIFTYPLUS

M A R K YO U R C A L E N D A R

Ongoing

SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL The Quill Theatre and Agecroft Hall & Gardens present the 2022

Richmond Shakespeare Festival, with outdoor performances of “The Merry Wives of Windsor” through June 26 and “She Stoops to Conquer” from July 7 through July 31. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit bit.ly/RichmondShakespeareFest. Call (804) 353-4241 with questions.

This painting by Lively captures a behind-the-scenes view of the musicians and their scattered backpacks. It’s a different view for audiences who usually see them in formal attire.

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