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Russian Revolution memoirs

JULY 2017

I N S I D E …

PHOTO BY CHRISTOPHER MYERS

By Robert Friedman While Russian President Vladimir Putin is reportedly playing down the 100th anniversary of the Russian Revolution, Ellicott City resident Vladimir Marinich is marking the occasion with the publication of his grandparents’ memoirs of that historic event. Marinich, who is 80 and a retired Howard Community College history professor, has spent the last 10 years translating the memoirs of his maternal grandfather, Konstantin Ivanovich Globachev, who had led the czar’s political police in the then-capital of St. Petersburg, and his grandmother, Sofia Nikolaevna Globachev, who dodged many bullets during those tumultuous days in 1917 Russia. Globachev’s typewritten memoirs, written in 1922, were passed on to his son, Nicholas, who donated one copy to Columbia University and gave a second copy to Marinich. His grandmother wrote her own memoirs in 1949 as a legacy for her two grandchildren, Vladimir and his older brother, Oleg. “These memoirs are of eye-witnesses to the Russian Revolution, a husband and wife who lived through its turmoil and tragedy,” said Marinich.

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Two perspectives on turbulence

The dual memoirs make up The Truth of the Russian Revolution: The Memoirs of the Tsar’s Chief of Security and His Wife, 364 pages of prose and photos, as well as some commentary and biographical information added by Marinich. The book was published recently by the State University of New York (SUNY) Press. Marinich wants it known that he relied a great deal on his wife, Barbara Livieratos, for finishing the translation of the memoirs. “She proofread, made changes several times around, and spurred me on when I thought about quitting,” he said. “My grandfather’s memoirs are written in political terms,” said Marinich, who taught at HCC for 43 years and was a member of the original faculty of the college when it was founded in 1970. In contrast, “My grandmother’s memories are from the perspective of a wife and mother,” he said. Among other things, granddad Globachev, a major general in the Okhrana (the czar’s secret police), provided security for the infamous Rasputin — the heavy drinker, heavy

Vladimir Marinich recently published his grandparents’ memoirs about their experiences before and during the Russian Revolution of 1917 — from dodging bullets, to providing security for the infamous Rasputin. Marinich spent 10 years translating the first-person accounts by both his maternal grandfather and grandmother.

womanizer, heavy debaucher and mystical adviser who had tremendous influence over Czar Nicholas II, his family and his court. Marinich noted that his grandfather recalled in his memoirs that one early morning after Rasputin “got absolutely drunk,” he had to bail the czar’s mystical sage out of jail. [See excerpt on page 29.] The Globachevs fled Russia after the second upheaval of the year put the Bolsheviks in power. The first revolution, which occurred in February 1917, overthrew the czar, while the October 1917 Revolution brought about Communist rule, starting with Lenin’s, then Stalin’s, leadership.

Fleeing to America

First, Marinich’s grandparents went to Istanbul — then known as Constantinople

— where they wrote their remembrances. In 1923, the couple decided “their best chance for having a [normal] life was coming, as refugees, to America,” said Marinich. After a 1930-1934 stay in Paris, where Globachev led an underground intelligence group planning the overthrow of the Moscow government, the Globachevs moved to New York and settled there. Marinich’s grandfather became a commercial artist. He died in 1941, at the age of 71. His grandmother — who kept house, cooked for the extended family in the Russian-speaking household, made sure that Marinich and his brother had milk and cookies every day after school, and gave the first generation of American See MEMOIRS, page 28

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When you can’t budge it The Trump administration issued a pre- older adults with appeals of insurance denials liminary “skinny” budget proposal a few and with cases of healthcare fraud or abuse. SHIP costs the federal govmonths ago, followed more ernment about $50 million anrecently by its official 2018 nually to train and manage the budget request to Congress. volunteer counselors. In a Of the many draconian cuts $3,650,000,000,000 ($3.65 trilthe budget would impose, I lion) budget, $50 million repwant to talk about two that resents less than .0014% of the would particularly affect older total. It is, as some say, not Americans were they to go into even a rounding error. effect. But with this relatively negliThese aren’t by any means gible amount of money, the the largest cuts, or even the program leverages the intelcuts that would harm the great- FROM THE lectual abilities and devotion of est number of people. But they PUBLISHER By Stuart P. Rosenthal more than 15,000 older adult are significant all the same, and volunteers, enabling them to worth some discussion. In the budget of the Administration for assist more than 6 million Medicare beneficiCommunity Living (a division of the De- aries each year. Does it not seem to be shortsighted in partment of Health and Human Services formerly known as the Administration on the extreme to zero out a program that Aging, before it was merged with the Of- does so much good for so little cost? I have a similar beef about another worthfice on Disability), only one program is zeroed out: the State Health Insurance As- while program, this one slated to be zeroed out in the Department of Labor budget. sistance Program, commonly called SHIP. This program operates throughout the Called the Senior Community Service Emcountry. Using trained volunteers — who ployment Program (SCSEP), it’s the federal are, themselves, older adults — it provides government’s only job training and placeMedicare beneficiaries with individualized ment program aimed at older Americans. The program places unemployed, lowassistance concerning the intricacies of Medicare, prescription drug coverage, medi- income older adults in part-time, on-thejob training positions in nonprofit, governgap policies and long-term care insurance. The free, confidential service also assists ment and faith-based organizations, where

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The Beacon is a monthly newspaper dedicated to inform, serve, and entertain the citizens of the Greater Baltimore area, and is privately owned. Other editions serve Howard County, Md., Greater Washington DC and Greater Palm Springs, Calif. Subscriptions are available via third-class mail ($12), prepaid with order. Maryland residents add 6 percent for sales tax. Send subscription order to the office listed below. Publication of advertising contained herein does not necessarily constitute endorsement. Signed columns represent the opinions of the writers, and not necessarily the opinion of the publisher. • Publisher/Editor ....................Stuart P. Rosenthal • Associate Publisher ..............Judith K. Rosenthal • Vice President, Operations........Gordon Hasenei • Director of Sales ................................Alan Spiegel • Assistant Operations Manager ..........Roger King • Managing Editor............................Barbara Ruben • Contributing Editor ..........................Carol Sorgen • Art Director ........................................Kyle Gregory • Advertising Representatives ......Rodney Harris, ..........................................Steve Levin, Paul Whipple • Assistant Editor ..........................Rebekah Alcalde

The Beacon, P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915 (410) 248-9101 • Email: info@thebeaconnewspapers.com Submissions: The Beacon welcomes reader contributions. Deadline for editorial is the 1st of the month preceding the month of publication. Deadline for ads is the 1st of the month preceding the month of publication. See page 31 for classified advertising details. Please mail or email all submissions. © Copyright 2017 The Beacon Newspapers, Inc.

they earn a minimum wage salary paid for by SCSEP. The workers gain a variety of valuable skills, and are expected to find unsubsidized employment after a limited time in the program. Last year, about 70,000 older adults participated, training at more than 21,000 organizations, where they provided nearly 36 million hours of support. Nearly half of each year’s participants find gainful employment soon after their SCSEP stint. This program is more costly than SHIP: Its annual budget has been around $400 million a year (averaging about $5,700 per person). But that amount enables tens of thousands of low-income adults, who presumably qualify for other aid, to “get off the dole,” earn a livelihood for the foreseeable future, and probably spend every dime of what they earn, boosting their local economy. There are many other worthwhile programs similarly targeted for complete or partial elimination in the president’s budget request. Many dwarf these two programs. But I focus on these two because they seem to be such good examples of targeted, effective programs that leverage relatively small expenditures into significant benefits. The administration’s budget request is really just that: It tells Congress what the president wants to see happen. But Congress holds the power of the purse, and it will decide on the final budget. I don’t think any observers expect all of the Trump cuts to be approved. Still, if you would like to see programs like these retained, now is the time to speak to your congressional representatives. Truly, every constituent’s comment is important. Few people ever take the

time to call, write or email their representatives, so the few that do tend to have an outsize impact. I urge you to take action. Before I close, however, I ask you to join me in a thought experiment. Imagine that our efforts fall on deaf ears, and these two programs are zeroed out of the final budget. What happens next year? Do the 15,000 experienced SHIP counselors just find something else to do with their time? Do the 21,000 nonprofits that received 36 million hours of help from competent older adults just downsize their programs or dump more work on their already overworked employees? Can we not imagine that the ingenuity and drive of all these people could be harnessed to continue providing such worthwhile services without the relatively modest contributions of our federal government? I’d like to think a few of those highlytrained SHIP volunteers could find a way to manage the program, keeping their fellow volunteer counselors on the job. Or perhaps the excellent local SHIP managers who have hitherto been paid through the federal grant could do some of their own fundraising, and task other SHIP workers with helping to raise the rest of the money necessary to keep their local programs running. And maybe the nonprofits who need the help could find a way to continue offering on-the-job training to low-income adults. And maybe the adults who need that training — and have a 50/50 chance of finding paid employment after completing it — could find a way to get to those offices for a few See FROM THE PUBLISHER, page 13

Letters to the editor Readers are encouraged to share their opinion on any matter addressed in the Beacon as well as on political and social issues of the day. Mail your Letter to the Editor to The Beacon, P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915, or e-mail to barbara@thebeaconnewspapers.com. Please include your name, address and telephone number for verification. Dear Editor: Your June editorial, “A look back, and forward,” reminded me that incivility didn’t first arrive with our last presidential election. You don’t state which “side” of the Iraq war debate you were on, and it really doesn’t matter — except that, in my experience, the left is more likely to react “inappropriately” than those on the right. This is not to claim that politeness, tolerance and respectful speech is practiced exclusively on the conservative side. To be sure, there are crude, obnoxious and inhospitable people across the spectrum. However, it has long seemed to me that the left has more self-righteous members so convinced they are on the side of “good” that those who disagree are viewed as simply ignorant buffoons and/or malevolent, and their views don’t deserve our respect or consideration whatsoever. To use the old English expression, those

on the right, in their view, are “beyond the pale.” Civility isn’t owed to that sort, is it? Thoughtful conservatives, well aware of man’s imperfections and deficient human nature, know that wisdom does not reside exclusively within. I recognize that your objective was not to assign blame, but we must take into account that those who are not treated respectfully will react in kind. Yes, it can be circular, and we as a society must castigate those who are uncivil, regardless whether they are on “our side.” Probably a naive demand, but those of us, like you and me, who are civil and respectful of others with different views can also continue to set examples, which may in time be emulated by others and cause the resurgence of civility. We have to hope. Richmond Davis Columbia

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Technology &

Innovations Add latest safety technology to your car Is it worth the money?

Consumers have to do the math to decide whether it’s better to add aftermarket systems to an older car or save up for a new one. Balance the cost of new safety — which can be hefty — with the increased maintenance older cars usually need. If you don’t want an extra camera cluttering up your dashboard, you may want to save up for a new car with built-in systems. To get blind spot monitoring, forward collision warning and lane departure warning on a new, 2017 Altima SL, you have to spend $28,570 for the car and add $3,000 in options. For a fraction of that amount — $500 — you could add an aftermarket forward col-

lision system, backup camera and blind spot detection monitors to an older car. Or you could consider a late-model used car. A 2015 Nissan Altima SL with blind spot monitoring, a rearview camera and lane departure warning can be found for less than $20,000, for example. Buyers may want to wait on a new car because the cost of safety tech is coming down. Toyota is now offering a $300 package on some vehicles that includes forward collision warning and lane departure warning. Starting with the 2018 model year, all vehicles sold in the U.S. will be required to have backup cameras. And most new cars will have standard automatic emergency braking by 2022.

TECHNOLOGY SIMPLIFIED – BIGGER AND BETTER

Wow! A Simple to Use Computer Designed Especially for Seniors! Easy to read. Easy to see. Easy to use. Just plug it in!

There is finally a computer that’s designed for simplicity and ease of use. It’s the WOW Computer, and it was designed with you in mind. This computer is easy-to-use, worry-free and literally puts the world at your fingertips. From the moment you open the box, you’ll realize how different the WOW Computer is. The components are all connected; all you do is plug it into an outlet and your high-speed Internet connection. Then you’ll see the screen.

This is a completely new touch screen system, without the cluttered look of the normal computer screen. The “buttons” on the screen are easy to see and easy to understand. All you do is touch one of them, from the Web, Email, Calendar to Games– you name it… and a new screen opens up. It’s so easy to use you won’t have to ask your children or grandchildren for help. Until now, the very people who could benefit most from E-mail and the Internet are the ones that have had the hardest time accessing it. Now, thanks to the WOW Computer, countless older Americans are discovering the wonderful world of the Internet every day. Isn’t it time you took part? Call now, and you’ll find out why tens of thousands of satisfied seniors are now enjoying their WOW Computers, emailing their grandchildren, and experiencing everything the Internet has to offer. Call today!

Safety features to consider

Shawn Sinclair, an automotive engineer with Consumer Reports magazine, says forward collision warning is the most important feature to consider if you’re thinking about adding tech to your car. Even though it won’t stop the car from hitting an obstacle — automatic braking isn’t available as an aftermarket option — it will warn drivers so they can slow down or maneuver away. Blind spot detection and rear cameras are two others she considers critical. “But at the same time, you have to say, ‘Hey, I have this 10-year-old car. Maybe it’s time to turn it in,’” she said. See LATEST TECH, page 6

NEW Now comes with... Larger 22-inch hi-resolution screen – easier to see 16% more viewing area Simple navigation – so you never get lost Intel® processor – lightning fast Computer is in the monitor – No bulky tower Advanced audio, Better speaker configuration – easier to hear Text to Speech translation – it can even read your emails to you! U.S. Based Customer Service

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By Dee-Ann Durbin Old cars can learn new tricks. For a few hundred dollars, drivers can add new safety technology — like forward collision warning systems or backup cameras — to older cars. Cars are lasting longer than ever, thanks to improving quality. The average U.S. vehicle is now 11.6 years old, according to the consulting firm IHS Markit. But that means millions of car owners are missing out on technology that could potentially save their lives. Forward collision warning systems, for example, can reduce the risk of a crash by 27 percent, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

also search for ERs anywhere in the US by city and state, Zip code or landmark. FindER, free for iPhone and Android

By Barbara Ruben

board when they hear a sound. Those whose tests indicate hearing loss should follow up with an audiologist for a more thorough exam. www.audicus.com/online-hearingtest/

Links

Passing time

Have trouble reading menus in dark restaurants or even just the print on pill bottles? The iMagnifier (iphone) and Magnifying Glass Flashlight (Android) apps can brighten things up. The free versions of both apps include a flashlight and can magnify two or three times the actual size, while the $1.99 version of the apps lets users magnify four or eight times larger. iMagnifier (iphone) and Magnifying Glass Flashlight (Android), free and $1.99

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❏ Homecrest House (see ad on page 12) ❏ Park View at Colonial Landing (see ad on page 24)

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❏ Olney Assisted Living (see ad on page 12) ❏ Park View at Columbia (see ad on page 24) ❏ Park View at Ellicott City (see ad on page 24) ❏ Park View at Emerson (see ad on page 24) Name_________________________________________________________________

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❏ Heartlands Senior Living (see ad on page 14)

717HC

★

Department Of

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

❏ Fairhaven/Integrace (see ad on page 22)

F R E E

Maryland Accessible Telecommunications (MAT) program–State-provided assistive equipment to qualified applicants including telephones and tablets.

❏ Charlestown/Erickson Living (see ad on page 10)

★

Captioned Telephone–Displays every word your caller says, as you listen.

❏ Buckingham’s Choice/Integrace (see ad on page 22)

I N F O R M AT I O N

❏ Brooke Grove (see ad on page 32)

F R E E

Multiple Calling Options–For anyone who has difficulty using a standard telephone.

Get a FREE evaluation to find the solution that’s right for you. Call 800-552-7724 or 410-767-6960 (Voice/TTY) 443-453-5970 (Video Phone) or visit mdrelay.org to get started.

❏ Bayleigh Chase/Integrace (see ad on page 22)

★

Connect with Maryland Relay.

❏ Alta at Regency Crest (see ad on page 11)

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Housing Communities

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EMNet (Emergency Medicine Network) found that as ERs close and move, and as new facilities open, sources that list ERs invariably become outdated. A simple Internet search often returns unreliable results — with searches revealing closed ERs, part-time clinics, or even veterinary hospitals. To fill this gap, EMNet created the National Emergency Department Inventory. EMNet’s findER app locates the nearest hospital to you, no matter where you are, and then gives you directions. Users can

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★

Hearing aid company Audicus launched an online hearing test last month. The 10minute test — done on a website using your headphones and speakers — can help give a general sense of how a user’s hearing is doing. The test consists of tones at various frequencies. Users hit any key on the key-

Nearest ER stat!

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Apps

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

The Maryland Historical Trust is charged with maintaining the state’s inventory of historic places, and providing public access to that information. Until now, access to this data was limited — requiring in-person visits to the Maryland Historical Trust’s library, or online searches of specific property addresses or inventory numbers. With the launch of the interactive mapbased Medusa tool, the public can now find historic property information quickly and easily. Medusa allows digital access to this information in a variety of ways with links to database information, forms and photographs. http://mht.mar yland.gov/secure/ medusa/

Scan any barcode or search for a product, and ShopSavvy will show you who has the best prices at 40,000 stores, including Macy’s, Target, Best Buy, Walmart and Amazon. Some stores partner with the app and offer up to 20 percent cash back with each purchase. ShopSavvy spots sales on millions of products, and has a “watching” feature where users can store products they are interested in to find deals as they come up. Users can click on the “buy at home” button to get an email with products they viewed and the best deals on them. The app also lets users create shopping, wish, gift and other lists. ShopSavvy, free for iphone and Android

FR EE I N FOR MATION ★ FR EE I N FOR MATION ★ FR EE I N FOR MATION ★

Easy access to history

Thirteen years ago, 60-something journalist Ronni Bennett and her colleagues were laid off from their jobs at a website. While her younger co-workers found new jobs fairly easily, she got only two interviews in a year. So she started her blog, As Time Goes By, focused on age discrimination, aging, nostalgia and a lot more. And as time has gone by, her following has grown into the thousands for her and co-blogger Peter Tibbles’ insightful posts on everything from siblings who sing sublime harmony together, to sex, to “elder bashing” on “Saturday Night Live.” The prolific Bennett updates the site nearly daily. http://www.timegoesby.net

Big and bright

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Say you saw it in the Beacon | Technology & Innovations

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New, happier returns for online purchases By Anne D’Innocenzio As online shopping surges, so do the returns — and the hassles for shoppers trying to get rid of items that aren’t right. A few startups dedicated to online returns, as well as changes at some big stores, may make it easier. With the contest for shoppers’ loyalty intense, retailers need to keep them happy — and returns can be a key part of that. Online purchases get returned at about twice the rate of in-person selections, internet consultant Sucharita Mulpuru-Kodali said. And fewer than half sell again for full price, ac-

cording to research company Gartner Inc. Some stores have long allowed people to return merchandise they bought online to a brick-and-mortar store. Flash site Gilt Group lets shoppers take returns to Saks Off Fifth stores, since they have the same owner. Some of the new options allow shoppers to drop their items off at dedicated mall kiosks, or even have things picked up at their doorstep. “Retailers have to be competitive, whether it’s free shipping or free returns,” said Tobin Moore, CEO of Optoro, which helps retail-

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ers find the best re-sale price when a product is returned. Here are some of the new ways returns are getting less painful: Bypassing the lines at stores: Target is redesigning its stores to have a separate entrance for shoppers in a hurry, which will take them straight into a service area where they can make returns — including for items bought online. The company plans to implement the redesign at about a third of its stores over the next three years. Nordstrom has introduced a “Drop & Shop” service in Manhattan for online returns from its discount division Nordstrom Rack and its Hautelook flash sale site. The company says it’s been encouraged by the shorter waits and positive feedback from shoppers. It’s testing the service elsewhere at its Rack stores and working toward expanding it this summer, spokeswoman Kendall Ault said. Extended deadlines: Plenty of stores are lengthening the timeframe for returns. Target extended the deadline for a full refund to one year on items from its more than 30 exclusive brands. The previous limit was 90 days. Online shoe retailer Zappos has long offered a 365-day return policy, but as part of its loyalty program, it now has no time limit for top-tier customers. Label-less returns: Companies are getting more accommodating to shoppers who don’t have printers at home and find it harder to produce return labels. UPS, which has more than 100,000 U.S. drop-off locations, said it tested a program last year that allowed people to present a barcode on their phones at UPS. It’s now expanding that feature.

“We want to make it simple. We want to make it more convenient,” said Jim Brill, a UPS marketing manager. Return it at the mall: Logistics company Happy Returns is building a network of return bars at malls in a partnership with several online-only retailers. Shoppers can make returns in person and get a full refund right there. “Our research shows that people don’t want to pay for the cost” of the postage, said David Sobie, CEO of Happy Returns. The company is working with mall operators Macerich, Westfield and Simon at seven malls in five cities. Those include Tysons Corner Center in Arlington, Va., and the Westfield Center Mall in San Francisco. The retailers include custom shoe company Shoes of Prey, fashion brands Eloquii and Everlane, and marketplace seller Tradesy. Have items picked up: High-level members of the Zappos loyalty program can get free UPS pickups for their returns. The startup Deliv offers same-day delivery and returns for retailers such as Macy’s, Pottery Barn and Williams Sonoma and operates in about 18 geographic markets. Retailers set the return fees. Macy’s and its upscale sister Bloomingdale’s, for example, charge $6.95 for returns. Deliv will collect an item from someone’s home and bring it either to UPS or the retailer where it was bought, whichever is most efficient. “Where is shopping going?” said CEO Daphne Carmeli. “We believe that fundamentally the epicenter of shopping is moving toward the home.” — AP

Latest tech

mends Goshers Blind Spot Detection System, which costs $239. It monitors within 10 feet of the vehicle. Sinclair recommends having a professional install the system; it took her mechanic four hours to do it. Backup camera: According to government statistics, roughly 250 people are killed each year in backover accidents, many of them children. China’s Yada brand makes a weatherproof camera with night vision that attaches to the rear of the car. When the car is in reverse, it sends images wirelessly to a 4.3-inch monitor. Pep Boys sells the system for $129. If you don’t want a monitor in your car, Auto Vox has one that displays the image in your rear-view mirror. It’s $139 on Amazon.com. Emergency assistance: Hum, developed by Verizon, works like General Motors’ OnStar system. It will automatically call emergency services if the car has been in an accident. It sends alerts to drivers’ phones if there’s a mechanical problem and lets drivers press a button if they need roadside assistance. Hum works in cars built in 1996 or later. It costs $10 per month; a two-year subscription is required. There are also onetime set-up and activation fees totaling $50. — AP

From page 4

The quality of aftermarket systems varies considerably. Read reviews or ask a trusted mechanic for recommendations. Here are some: Forward collision warning/lane departure warning: Sinclair suggests a system from Mobileye, a tech company that also supplies most major automakers. Mobileye’s cameras and software can recognize other vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists and even speed limit signs. The system alerts drivers when they leave a lane and when a collision is up to 2.7 seconds away. Sinclair says it costs around $1,000 to buy the system and have it installed by a Mobileye technician. There are many less expensive and easyto-install dashboard cameras that double as collision warning systems. Garmin’s Dash Cam 35 monitors up to 130 feet in front of the vehicle; if the driver is going 30 mph or faster, it will issue audio and visual alerts of impending collisions. The Dash Cam 35 costs $130 on Amazon.com. Blind spot detection: Blind spot systems use sensors to monitor the sides of the vehicle, and flash an icon to the driver if something is in the way. Sinclair recom-

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Fitness &

Health

HEALING HEEL PAIN Minimally invasive ultrasound treatments can treat plantar fasciitis SAFER PRODUCE Minimize pesticides in your fruits and veggies by cleaning and peeling them SHADE YOURSELF Many drugs, from statins to blood pressure meds, make skin more likely to burn PROMOTE GOOD BACTERIA Fibrous prebiotics help nurture friendly bacteria, and are found in many foods

Coping with increasing food intolerance By Matthew Solan Who hasn’t eaten something that did not agree with them? But when your stomach issues become more frequent and severe, you might have a bigger digestion problem called food intolerance. Food intolerances occur more often as you age, since your digestion naturally becomes slower and your body produces fewer enzymes needed to break down food. “This allows more time for bacteria to ferment in the GI tract and lead to digestive distress,” said Evagelia Georgakilas, a registered dietitian and nutritionist with Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. Over time, you also may become more sensitive to particular foods, chemicals or additives. Some examples include sulfites found in wine, dried fruits and canned goods, or foods flavored with monosodium glutamate (MSG). However, the most common food sensitivities are related to lactose and gluten. With lactose intolerance, your body can’t

break down the sugar in dairy products (known as lactose) because your gut contains reduced levels of the intestinal enzyme lactase. People with gluten sensitivity have trouble digesting gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye and barley. (This is different from having celiac disease, a genetic autoimmune disorder where consuming gluten damages the lining of the small intestine.)

for every meal, including individual foods and portions. Then list any symptoms that occur afterwards and rate their level of intensity on a scale of one to 10, with one being no reaction to 10 being the most severe. Maintain your diary for two weeks to a month, and then review. “You should be able to find a connection between foods and common symptoms,” said Georgakilas.

Start a food diary

Once you pinpoint one, or several, potential problem foods, eliminate them from your diet. After a few days, add only one food back into your diet and monitor your reaction. “If your symptoms return, you’ve found the offending food,” said Georgakilas. Eliminating the problem food from your diet is the easiest move, but here are some other strategies to consider: • Reduce serving sizes. Sometimes you can still enjoy your favorite foods by reducing the amount, said Georgakilas. • Make adjustments. Your food intolerance may be a cumulative effect. For in-

Common symptoms of food intolerance include nausea, diarrhea, cramps and stomach pain, but also may involve other issues like vomiting, heartburn, headaches, and irritability or nervousness. Food intolerance is often tricky to pinpoint because you may be able to eat small amounts of a problem food without having any reaction. Instead, symptoms may only appear after you eat a large portion of the food, or eat it frequently. The best way to identify problem foods is with a food diary. Write down what you eat

To ease the discomfort

stance, pizza might cause you problems, but it may be the result of certain ingredients, or combinations. “You may be able to tolerate the cheese and tomatoes on their own, but together they create the perfect storm,” said Georgakilas. Try to eliminate specific ingredients one at a time, and then experiment with eliminating certain combinations until you find the right balance. Also, if the problem food is a source of vital nutrients, make sure you find an adequate replacement. “Cutting out gluten foods like wheat can rob your diet of fiber and B vitamins,” said Georgakilas. • Switch to gluten-free bread, or increase your intake of gluten-free grains like quinoa, sorghum, teff, millet and buckwheat. • For lactose intolerance, drink almond or coconut milk to ensure you get enough calcium and protein. © 2017. President and Fellows of Harvard College. All rights reserved. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Women face as many heart risks as men do By Densie Webb, R.D. In the U.S., 1 in 4 women will die from heart disease — almost half a million deaths each year. Yet the perception that heart disease is primarily a man’s disease persists. An American Heart Association survey found that fewer than half of American women are aware that heart disease is their leading killer. The reality is quite different — coronary heart disease (CHD) is the No. 1 killer of both men and women in this country. CHD occurs when plaque (made up primarily of fat, cholesterol and calcium) builds up on the inner walls of coronary arteries, preventing the flow of oxygen-rich blood to the heart. This buildup of plaque is called atherosclerosis, and it can trigger a heart attack. While this basic process of CHD is the same for men and women, the disease, its symptoms and its outcomes differ between the sexes in other ways.

Female facts

Women with diabetes have twice the

risk of CHD compared with men, and heart attacks among women with diabetes are more deadly. Women tend to develop CHD about 10 years later (after menopause) than men, perhaps contributing to the misbelief that women are less likely to develop the disease. Even if a woman has no symptoms, she may still be at risk. About two-thirds of women who die suddenly of CHD have had no previous symptoms. When women do have symptoms, they tend to differ from those of men. The Hollywood image of a man clutching his chest is less likely to happen to women. They are more likely to have pain in the neck, jaw, throat, abdomen or back than in the chest. Women may also experience lightheadedness, an upset stomach, and sweating when having a heart attack. It’s important not to ignore these signs, as heart attacks are generally more severe in women than in men. The American Heart Association has specific recommendations for the prevention of heart disease in women, including:

• Stop smoking and avoid environmental tobacco smoke. • Accumulate at least 150 min/week of moderate exercise, 75 min/week of vigorous exercise, or an equivalent combination of moderate- and vigorous-intensity aerobic physical activity. • Consume omega-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in the form of fish (at least twice a week) or in capsule form (e.g., EPA 1800 mg./day). • Eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables; choose whole-grain, high-fiber foods; limit intake of saturated fat, cholesterol, alcohol, sodium and sugar; and avoid trans fatty acids.

A heart protective lifestyle

A Harvard study, recently published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, looked at young and middle-aged women and followed them for 20 years until the oldest was 64 years of age. The researchers found that diet, exercise, healthy weight and moderate alcohol consumption were about equally important for

reducing risk for heart disease. “Interestingly, moderate alcohol intake became more beneficial in older women, but the other factors continued to be equally important,” said Eric Rimm, Sc.D., professor of epidemiology and nutrition director, Program in Cardiovascular Epidemiology at Harvard Medical School, who was an author of the study. On the other hand, excessive alcohol intake increases risk. But he added that, aside from not smoking, maintaining a healthy weight may be most important, since it requires that you eat a healthy diet and exercise. Rimm said, “Keeping a healthy weight is important because it represents better adherence to many healthy lifestyle factors, and it is associated with other important metabolic parameters, such as lower blood sugar and lower blood pressure.” Reprinted with permission from Environmental Nutrition, a monthly publication of Belvoir Media Group, LLC. 800-8295384. www.EnvironmentalNutrition.com. © 2017 Belvoir Media Group. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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J U L Y 2 0 1 7 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

Minimally invasive treatment for foot pain Dear Mayo Clinic: Is it true that pain on the bottom of the foot (plantar fasciitis) can sometimes be treated with ultrasound? How does that work? Answer: Yes. The treatment you are referring to is called percutaneous ultrasonic fasciotomy, which uses ultrasound technology to treat plantar fasciitis and other soft tissue problems. The treatment is showing promising results in patients who have not gotten relief from standard therapies for persistent plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis is a common foot problem that involves the thick band of tissue (plantar fascia) connecting the heel bone to the toes. The purpose of the plantar fascia is to support the arch of the foot and act as a shock ab-

sorber when you walk, run, jump or otherwise use your feet.

What causes it?

If the strain on the plantar fascia becomes too great, small tears can develop in the tissue. Those tears can lead to inflammation and pain. In some cases, these micro-tears fail to heal properly, leading to degenerative changes, scarring and abnormal blood vessel growth within the tissue. Plantar fasciitis has many possible causes, including certain types of exercise that put a lot of stress on the feet, such as jogging. Excess weight also can contribute to plantar fasciitis. In addition, thin-soled or loose shoes, highheeled shoes, and shoes without enough

arch support or flexible padding to absorb shock can lead to plantar fasciitis. Age is also a factor. As you age, tendons and fascia lose some flexibility and are less able to absorb impact. To treat plantar fasciitis effectively, the extra stress on the plantar fascia must be relieved so the tears can heal. For most people, these small tears can be treated successfully with physical therapy and special equipment that gives the foot extra support. A cortisone or other injection also may be considered. But for some, this isn’t enough, and finding a solution to the chronic pain and loss of function due to plantar fasciitis can be frustrating. Open surgery to remove the damaged tissue is an option, but recovery often is prolonged, and recurring pain is common.

How ultrasound works

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Fortunately, a minimally invasive treatment is available for patients with plantar fasciitis who otherwise have not found relief. Percutaneous ultrasonic fasciotomy uses the Tenex Health TX tissue removal (debridement) system, which Mayo Clinic doctors helped develop. The procedure, which can be done in a doctor’s office, can also be used on elbows, shoulders or other places where tendinopathy (irritation in the tendons) may develop. Here’s how it works. Before the procedure, imaging tests — such as ultrasound or MRI — are done to determine the location and extent of the degenerated tissue. Once the specially trained physician has

a clear picture of what’s going on, he or she numbs the skin over the area and makes a small incision — just large enough to insert a needle-like probe. The physician then inserts the probe into the opening, guided by ultrasound imaging. The probe’s oscillating tip produces ultrasonic energy, which breaks down the damaged tissue directly ahead of it. At the same time, a built-in inflow-outflow fluid system simultaneously irrigates and sucks up the broken down, or emulsified, tissue. Once all of the degenerated tissue is cleared away, the probe is removed, and the incision is closed with adhesive skin tape and a pressure bandage. The whole procedure takes only a few minutes, and complications are few. After the procedure, patients must rest the area for several days, and may need crutches or a walking boot to relieve pressure on the foot. But they usually can get back to their regular routine within a week to 10 days. It might take several months before returning to the activity that prompted the plantar fasciitis, however. Improvement continues as the tissue heals. Some people may benefit from additional physical therapy. The procedure may not be appropriate for patients who have a complete tear in the fascia. But those with plantar fasciitis that hasn’t responded to initial treatment should talk to their doctor about all of their treatment options, including ultrasonic fasciotomy. © 2017 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. All rights reserved. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — J U L Y 2 0 1 7

How to minimize pesticides in your food You try to eat plenty of fresh produce, but worry about your risk of ingesting pesticides. Most nonorganic crops — and even some organically grown crops — come in contact with pesticides, and may contain traces of pesticidal residue on the surface of, or even inside, the fruit or vegetable. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency monitors domestic and imported

foods to ensure that pesticide residues are below certain levels. However, you can take extra steps to minimize pesticide exposure further by:

Clean your produce

Rinsing produce with running water for 15 to 30 seconds, while gently rotating the produce, removes most surface pesticide

The ‘dirty dozen’ and the ‘clean 15’ According to the Environmental Working Group, which produces the Shoppers’ Guide to Pesticides in Produce, there are 12 fruits and vegetables that tend to be prone to contamination due to the way they are grown. The group estimates that people can reduce their exposure to pesticides by 80 percent if they buy these items organically grown: Apples Bell Peppers Blueberries Celery Cucumbers Grapes Lettuce Nectarines Peaches Potatoes Spinach Strawberries

As noted above, you can also clean and then peel many of these to minimize pesticide residue. The group’s “clean 15” list refers to fruits and vegetables whose thick skin or husk (often removed before eating) reduces exposure to pesticides used in growing them: Asparagus Avocados Cabbage Cantaloupe Cauliflower Eggplant Grapefruit Honeydew Kiwi Mangoes Onions Papayas Pineapple Sweet corn Sweet peas (frozen)

residue. Scrubbing with a brush also may aid in the removal of pesticides and other substances.

Peel your produce

It makes sense to peel an outer layer from foods such as lettuce or onions. For foods such as apples and potatoes, peeling removes pesticide residues, but also the nutrients in the peel. If you’re going to peel something, rinse before peeling, so your knife doesn’t transfer surface residue to the

peeled produce.

Buy organically grown produce

Not every piece of produce labeled organic is 100 percent pesticide-free, and not everything that’s conventionally grown has pesticides. Still, for the most part, consuming organic produce significantly reduces your exposure to pesticide residues, compared to consuming conventionally farmed produce. — Adapted from Mayo Clinic Health Letter

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FINALLY – Straight Talk About Sciatica Are you suffering from back pain or sciatica? Then it’s likely your biggest problem is pain. But there’s another major problem: bad information. To end sciatica misery you must have the right information. Pay close attention because I’m going to destroy sciatica myths and give you the facts. MYTH: Sciatica will just “go away” with some rest. FACT: If you are dealing with back pain, buttock pain or leg pain, then you must seek help from a sciatica specialist immediately. Left untreated, sciatica can lead to permanent nerve damage - and lifelong pain. MYTH: Pain is the only problem associated with sciatica. FACT: In severe cases, sciatica can lead to the inability to control your bowels or bladder. MYTH: You must take pain medications to deal with sciatica. FACT: Drugs like muscle relaxants, pain killers, narcotics, antidepressants, and anti-seizure medications have serious potential side-effects and do not cure the root cause of sciatica. MYTH: “I must have done something wrong to get sciatica.” FACT: Physical work or simply sitting at a desk for long periods can lead to sciatica. Accidents and trauma can also be the culprits. Pregnancy can cause sciatica. Sciatica can affect anyone - including superfit celebrities like Tiger Woods, and Sylvester Stallone. MYTH: Stop exercising and get several weeks of bed rest to overcome sciatica. FACT: Staying active can help to relieve sciatic pain and prevent the pain from getting worse. Staying inactive in bed could be the worst advice - based on a recent study in the Netherlands.

MYTH: Sciatica requires surgery. FACT: NO! There’s been a huge breakthrough in the treatment of sciatica and lower back pain. It’s a new procedure called Non-Surgical Re-Constructive Spinal Care. The excellent results from this treatment have been published in major medical journals. Success rates are up to 90%. MYTH: “There’s nothing anyone can really do. I’m just stuck with this for the rest of my life.” FACT: With the correct treatment from a healthcare professional who specialize in sciatica, you can find relief from the core cause - and the symptoms. MYTH: Getting sciatica properly diagnosed is expensive. FACT: Not true. Dr. Steve Silverston of World Class Chiropractic in Ellicott City, MD is currently offering an initial consultation and comprehensive examination for Just $49, this includes all tests and x-rays if necessary. Dr. Steve Silverston – In Ellicott City, MD has helped over the past 25 years thousands of patients find relief from agonizing back pain and sciatica. He uses Non-Surgical Re-Constructive Spinal Care. This procedure does not require a hospital stay, drugs or anything invasive. The focus is on finding - and correcting - the original cause of the back pain and sciatica. According to Dr. Silverston, “We use a combination of gentle, non-invasive, proven techniques, for precisely diagnosing and correcting the cause of your low back pain and sciatica. This means superior long-term results for most people.” Almost Immediate Relief from Pain! Because the treatment is non-surgical, safe, and easy, most patients report an almost immediate relief from their back pain. Patient Brad H. from Eldersburg, MD wrote, “For several years I saw numerous

doctors including chiropractors in an attempt to resolve unrelenting low back pain and sciatica from a serious motor vehicle injury. Nobody could help me resolve it and my work and life were suffering. Dr. Silverston was able to quickly identify my problem and within one week of beginning care, for the first time in years, I’m virtually pain free! Now, many years later, I am still better.” Take the Next Step - END the Suffering... Initial Consultation and Comprehensive Examination for Just $49. This includes all tests and x-rays if necessary. The first step is a thorough sciatic examination with Dr. Silverston. Call 410-461-3435 to schedule your appointment. Mention this article (CODE: 49TB0717) and Dr. Steve Silverston will happily reduce his usual consultation fee to just $49! Only 50 reader consultations are available at this exclusively discounted rate.

Call them now at 410-461-3435 (mention code: 49TB0717) and get a full and thorough examination to pinpoint the cause of your problem for just $49. The normal cost of such an exam is $345 so you will save $296! Call them now at 410-461-3435 and cut out or tear off this valuable article and take it to your appointment. You’ll be on your way to safe, lasting relief! You can even call on the weekend and leave a message on their answering machine to secure your spot and they promise to return all calls. During the week staff can be very busy helping patients so if they don’t pick up straight away, do leave a message. Call 410-461-3435 NOW. If it’s the weekend or they’re away from the phone the staff at World Class Chiropractic promise they will get back to you. So call now at 410-461-3435 and quote this special discount code: 49TB0717.

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J U L Y 2 0 1 7 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

Roasted veggies with leftover hummus By Melissa D’Arabian I remember being told in marketing class back in graduate school that the fastest growing food category in America was hummus. Hummus, our professor insisted to us disbelieving students, would soon be ubiquitous. I should have heeded his advice and leveraged that bit of 1991 foresight in some way. Chances are that if you have been to any kind of gathering lately, you have partaken in a hummus and veggie platter. Stores are filled with endless varieties of hummus, and homemade recipes flood the Internet. With protein and fiber-filled garbanzo beans leading the ingredient list, it’s a filling dip that turns baby carrots and bell pepper slices into a worthy snack that will

actually fill you up a bit. Both kids and adults seem to like hummus, so it is equally comfortable at a cocktail hour as it is at a kids’ soccer field. The problem is: You always have leftovers. At least we do. Usually, I serve a couple of varieties, along with a triple-sized stock of veggies, because you never really know if the crowd skews more broccoli than carrots, so having veg backup seems wise. After one of those occasions, I had the idea to toss the leftover veggies into the hummus and roast them. The hummus clung to the veggies just enough to give it a caramelized and tasty crust. In the one recipe, two leftovers were used up to create a whole new side dish or appetizer: Hummus-Crusted Roasted Vegetables.

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Hummus-crusted roasted veggies

MEN’S SENIOR SOFTBALL

Men 55 and older who are interested in playing on a senior softball team for the fall season can learn more and sign up with the Department of Recreation & Parks through July on the website howardcountymd,gov/rap or by calling Mark Pendleton at (410) 313-7275.

July 29

LEARN TO MEDITATE

Techniques to reduce stress and stress-related disorders will be featured in a class on Saturday, July 29 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Howard Community College’s Hickory Ridge Building, 10650 Hickory Ridge Rd., Columbia. Tuition is $59. For more information and to register, visit howardcc.edu.ConEd or call (443) 518-1700.

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The key is to roast at high heat, and to preheat the baking sheet, which will accelerate the caramelization of the veggies. Usually, I just toss the vegetables with the hummus in a large bowl with my hands. But, I’ve also thinned out hummus with a few tablespoons of lemon juice or water to make a batter to coat the veggies more completely, like a hummus tempura. Either way works. Flavored hummus, like roasted garlic or red pepper, doesn’t usually need a boost, but feel free to stir in extra garlic, herbs or spices (a spoonful of pesto is delish). Even plain hummus works great, and takes about a minute to put together. After baking, sprinkle on a pinch of salt and squeeze of lemon, and your hummuscrudite platter will have found new life.

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Start to finish: 30 minutes Servings: 6 servings 1 cup baby carrots 1 cup broccoli florets 1 cup cauliflower florets 1 cup bell pepper slices (red or yellow preferred) 1 small onion or fennel bulb, peeled and quartered 1 cup prepared hummus Garlic or spices, if desired (optional)

1/4 teaspoon kosher salt Lemons for squeezing Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and place inside the oven. Preheat the oven to 425 F, with the sheet pan in the oven. In a large bowl, toss the vegetables with the hummus, (and any optional garlic or spices if using), using your hands to coat the veggies. Do not worry if the mixture is a little clumpy or uneven. Once the oven is hot, remove the sheet pan, and carefully lay out the coated vegetables on the tray. Return to the oven and roast for 10 minutes. Remove the vegetables from the oven, and quickly turn the vegetables over. Return the vegetables to the oven and roast until desired tenderness, about 10 to 15 more minutes. Remove from heat, sprinkle with salt and lemon juice, and serve. Chef’s notes: Feel free to use whatever vegetables are to your liking. Another version: add lemon juice or water just until the hummus is smooth and creamy, like a thick batter, before tossing in the vegetables. Nutrition information per serving: 101 calories; 36 calories from fat; 4 g. fat (1 g. saturated; 0 g. trans fats); 0 mg. cholesterol; 270 mg. sodium; 13 g. carbohydrate; 5 g. fiber; 4 g. sugar; 5 g. protein. For more recipes, see www.melissadarabian.net. — AP

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — J U L Y 2 0 1 7

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Fitness & Health

Beware of the sun if you take these drugs Did you know that your medication can are hundreds of offenders, and the list damage skin? Most of you don’t even think below does not mean you’ll have a reaction at all. It just means the possibilabout that as a side effect. ity exists. Photosensitivity is a fairly Antibiotics: Sulfamethoxcommon skin reaction that is azole, tetracycline, doxycysparked by taking medicines cline, ciprofloxacin, and the that interact with ultraviolet UTI drug nitrofurantoin. (UV) radiation from the sun Psychoactive medications: or from tanning beds. Amitriptyline, imipramine, and It happened to me once, other tri-cyclic antidepressants. and luckily the red burning Also sertraline (Zoloft), venrash and tingling affected only lafaxine (Effexor), mirtazapine my hands. It took only two DEAR (Remeron) and alprazolam hours of sun exposure on a PHARMACIST (Xanax). The blockbuster Aripshady trail while hiking in CalBy Suzy Cohen iprazole (Abilify) is another psyifornia. Still, it rendered me che med that has been associatout of writing commission for ed with skin eruptions and sensitivity. a few days. Accutane and Retin A: These are The big problem is that photosensitivity reactions are highly unpredictable. Noth- used to improve skin, so it’s ironic that it ing may happen the first three times you can produce a photosensitivity reaction, go swimming, but then the next time it’s but they’re biggies. Allergy meds and antihistamines: dreadful. The reaction can differ with each exposure, and with the specific medication Cetirizine, diphenhydramine, loratadine you take. Also, perfumes containing “6- and other blockbusters. Blood pressure medications: Enalapril methylcoumarin” or “musk ambrette” may and amlodipine can sometimes cause “Subacause skin allergies, so it’s not just drugs. For example, a classic reaction is a severe cute Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus” sunburn, but also possible are brown (SCLE), a painful skin eruption. Other ofsplotches in your skin, redness, pain and ten- fenders in this category include Vaseretic, derness, an actual bumpy rash, hives or Lotensin HCT, Dyazide and Hyzaar. Betaother inflammation. Photosensitivity reac- blockers, diuretics and vasodilators also retions are very individual. Some may be require extra sun caution. Diabetic drugs: Glipizide, glyburide, versible in a few days, while others may tolbutamide, glimepiride and others. Metcause permanent skin damage. So, just because you do not have a prob- formin does not usually cause any problem. Birth control pills or menopausal lem with medication now, doesn’t guarantee smooth sailing every time you take it. There drugs: (Any of them. There are hun-

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June 24+

HOMECREST HOUSE HOLDS YARD SALE Senior living community Homecrest House is sponsoring an on-

site yard sale of household items and clothing from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, June 24 and Sunday, June 25 to benefit residents of the community. Homecrest House is located at 14508 Homecrest Rd., Silver Spring. For more information, call (301) 244-3579.

dreds.) Patches, pills, all of them can produce a ‘photo’ reaction. Statin cholesterol drugs: All of them — atorvastatin, fluvastatin, lovastatin, pravastatin, simvastatin — have the ability. Diuretics: Many of them are skin sensitizers, however the popular HCTZ (hydrochlorothiazide), can cause a dangerous SCLE reaction. Any drug containing HCTZ is a potential offender. Anti-inflammator y (NSAID) drugs: Ibuprofen, ketoprofen, naproxen and celecoxib. My list is not complete, so ask your pharmacist about your particular medications. Please use natural sunscreens and sunblocks, and wear wide-brimmed hats as well as clothing that covers you up well.

Aloe vera creams are soothing, as is the gel right from the plant. If you experience a reaction, try putting lavender essential oil (20 drops) and peppermint oil (2 drops) in some cold water, then make a cold compress out of that. It will cool on contact. Compresses with comfrey root, baking soda water or lavender oil are the fastest way to take the sting out. This information is opinion only. It is not intended to treat, cure or diagnose your condition. Consult with your doctor before using any new drug or supplement. Suzy Cohen is a registered pharmacist and the author of The 24-Hour Pharmacist and Real Solutions from Head to Toe. To contact her, visit www.SuzyCohen.com.

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J U L Y 2 0 1 7 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

Promoting good bacteria with prebiotics By Matt Ruscigno, R.D From yogurt to kombucha to supplements, probiotics appear to be on the tip of everyone’s tongue, literally and figuratively. Probiotics are live bacteria that are believed to have properties that improve digestive health. Lactobacillus found in yogurt and other fermented foods is one example. It’s worth noting that the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health expresses concern that the marketing of probiotics may be outpacing the cur-

rent body of research on their benefits. Nonetheless, consumers have become more aware that a healthy gut microbiome (the collection of microbes in the gut) is important. And in order to nurture friendly bacteria, you’d better feed them fiber-rich foods and prebiotics.

Probiotics vs. prebiotics

Often confused with probiotics, prebiotics are not bacteria, but are indigestible

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fibrous components that stimulate the growth of healthy bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract. So, they indirectly benefit the microbiota and digestive system. Marcel Roberfroid, who first discovered prebiotics, described them as fermentable ingredients that alter the composition and activity in the gastrointestinal microflora in a beneficial way. This fermentation is part of the beneficial process, though those who have not consumed high-prebiotic foods regularly may experience some gastrointestinal discomfort, such as bloating and gas. Introducing these foods slowly and increasing fluids helps with tolerance.

Prebiotic pros

The evidence has long pointed to the benefits of fiber in lowering cholesterol and controlling blood sugar levels, so it’s no surprise that prebiotics, which are components of fiber, are also beneficial. Inulin, beta-glucan and fructooligosac-

charides are the most common examples of prebiotics. They are found in many readily available foods including asparagus, onions, mushrooms, bananas, oats and wheat. A 2016 review in the journal Nutrients looked closely at prebiotics and found they may play a role in issues like obesity and immune function. While there are no current recommendations for prebiotic intake, there are strong recommendations for increased fiber intake among the public in general. And the foods high in prebiotics have additional beneficial components in the form of cancer-fighting phytochemicals. While we wait for the evidence to build on prebiotics, there is almost no downside to adding these foods to one’s diet. Reprinted with permission from Environmental Nutrition, a monthly publication of Belvoir Media Group, LLC. 1-800-8295384. www.EnvironmentalNutrition.com. © 2017 Belvoir Media Group. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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July 23

HEARING LOSS ASSOCIATION PICNIC The Greater Baltimore Chapter of the Hearing Loss Association of

America (HLAA-GBC) will hold its annual picnic at noon on Sunday, July 23 at Patapsco Valley State Park via the entrance at 5120 S. Street, Halethorpe. The gathering is open to families experiencing all levels of hearing loss issues, and offers opportunities for informal conversations and sharing stories about living with hearing loss. There is an entrance fee of $3 per person charged by the park. Hamburgers, veggie burgers, hot dogs and non-alcoholic beverages will be provided free of charge. Each family is asked to bring a communal dish for sharing. Register by July 17. For more information about the event, or to RSVP, contact Phyllis Hersh at (410) 602-5191 or online at silsreh523@gmail.com.

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H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — J U L Y 2 0 1 7

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Fitness & Health

When you suspect friends of stealing Dear Solutions: were packing. We offered our vacation home to That would give them a chance to discover some friends last winter that they “happened” to get while we went on a trip. Now them mixed in and, now that that we’re back, we can’t you mentioned it, they “hapfind a couple of vintage pins pened” to find them. with very unique political But be careful: If you want slogans on them that were those pins and those friends, part of a collection we keep. don’t pin it on them. It’s true that I haven’t Dear Solutions: looked at them for a while, My pet peeve is women but we happened to take out who are so unrealistic as to the collection to show to peosay they saw their husband ple recently, and those two SOLUTIONS across a crowded room and special pins are gone. They By Helen Oxenberg, just fell in love instantly. I were kept in an open box on a MSW, ACSW simply don’t believe this haptable. pens. We searched all over and can’t find What can one say or do to stay away them. My husband says we should ask from this nonsense without offending our friends outright if they have them. people? I feel that would actually be accusing — Sam them of stealing. What is the best way to handle this? — Cathy Dear Cathy: Aha! The case of the missing pins. Or — wait — is it the case of the lost friends? That’s what would probably be lost next, if you come across as actually accusing them of taking the pins. Search everywhere first. Since you hadn’t looked at the collection in a while, you may have misplaced them yourself. Short of finding them, and short of just taking the loss, you could ask your friends to see if they might have mistakenly mixed them in with some of their other things when they

From the publisher From page 2

months even without the minimum wage they would have been paid under SCSEP. Don’t get me wrong. I think these programs should continue to be federally funded. They accomplish a great deal with a small investment. And most of the larger programs that face huge cuts — like the $700 million cut from the National Institute on Aging’s research budget, or the $3.3 billion cut from the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program — could not continue to do what they do without federal assistance. But I would like to think that the programs that leverage small dollar investments into huge benefits through the efforts of older workers and volunteers could continue to operate, thanks to the ingenuity and abilities of those very people. In the meantime, write your representatives! These and many other worthwhile programs targeted for extinction are depending on it.

Dear Sam: What to do? When you’re in a crowded room, make sure you don’t look across it. And if you do, don’t make eye contact! What to say? “Oh, you’re so lucky. I hope it happens to me!” But don’t worry, Sam, it won’t — as long as you follow my advice above. Dear Solutions: I am married for the second time, but we are now divorcing. When we got married, I received a beautiful piece of decorative sculpture from a relative from my first marriage, whom I stayed friends with. I now say that belongs to me. But he says it should just be with everything else we’re dividing. We’re not using a lawyer for this, but don’t you think that should go to me since it’s a wedding present from my friend? —The Bride

Dear Bride: Since you are now divorcing, you are no longer “the bride,” and once you were married, that sculpture was no longer a wedding present to “you.” A wedding present is for the bride and the groom. And once the marriage takes place, presents belong to both of you, just like all the other presents and other possessions. In a situation like this, possessions usually go to whoever is the better negotiator or who has the better lawyer. You could try to trade that object for something your husband really wants for himself. I have no idea what a lawyer would say, so that’s as far as I can go. I wish each of you good luck. © Helen Oxenberg, 2017. Questions may be sent to helox72@comcast.net. For reprint rights, call (609) 655-3684.

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J U L Y 2 0 1 7 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

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• Transportation services • Extensive recreational programming on campus • Community trips, programs and cultural events • Professionally landscaped courtyard with gazebo, patio, pond and fountain • Close proximity to shopping, medical centers and cultural venues

CONTACT OUR COMMUNITY RELATIONS TEAM AT 410-461-9494 TO SCHEDULE A VISIT TODAY! www.HeartlandsSeniorLivingVillage.com INDEPENDENT LIVING • ASSISTED LIVING • RESPITE CARE • SHORT TERM STAYS ©2017 Five Star Senior Living

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — J U L Y 2 0 1 7

Say you saw it in the Beacon

50+

THE

NEWS and EVENTS from the Howard County Office on Aging and Independence

Connection

Department of Community Resources and Services

Volume 7, No. 7 • July 2017

The Loan Closet Helps Residents Age in Place

aye and Paul Greene are one of many couples in Howard County whose lives have been positively impacted by the availability of durable medical equipment through the Loan Closet. The couple recently shared their story in a video with County Executive Allan H. Kittleman and Aging in Place (AIP) Program Manager Mary Becker. “The Loan Closet has made it possible for my husband to get around the house much more easily,” says Faye Greene. “Plus, having a stair glide installed enabled Paul to go up and down the stairs whenever he wants.” (View the video at www.howardcountymd.gov/loancloset.) Since moving to a new, larger facility in the Long Reach Village Center in May 2016, the Loan Closet has served over 2,000 individuals and handled 5,000 pieces of donated equipment. The most popular items are transport wheelchairs, tub transfer benches, and commodes. “The response from the community has been fantastic,” says Mary Becker. “This success is not just about a piece of equipment. The Greenes represent many aspects of being helped by the Aging in Place team, including home modifications consultations by our contractor/retrofit specialist, a home safety visit by an occupational therapist and Senior Care in-home aide assistance, in addition to equipment from the Loan Closet.” Loan Closet staff take the time to educate families about finding solutions to make their homes more accessible, the proper use of assistive equipment, and how to modify tasks to allow Howard County homeowners options to

AIP Occupational Therapist, Carly Shilling (right) and RetroFit Specialist, Chris Muller (left), assist Howard County resident and Loan Closet client, Paul Greene, with the stair glide simulator. Home modification/safety consultations and equipment demos are available on site at the Loan Closet by appointment.

safely remain in their homes. Please call 410-313-0363 to make an appointment and discuss your specific needs. Community support continues to play a key role in the Loan Closet’s success. Many Howard County residents in need of medical equipment may not be able to afford these items, or they may only need equipment for a short period of time, while others have medical equipment they no longer need. The Loan Closet brings these two communities of people together. (continued on next page)

A Message from Howard County Executive

Allan H. Kittleman Earlier this Spring, I announced that the deadline for residents applying for a tax credit designed to assist them “age in place” has been extended to September 1, 2017. As of May 12, the county had received 1,374 applications for the credit. I extended the deadline because there are many residents still interested in taking advantage of this credit and because of a change made by the state legislature to expand those who qualify as retired military. As they age, Howard County’s older adults and retired military deserve the opportunity to remain in the homes where they built their lives and raised their families. This tax credit lessens their tax burden, giving them greater financial flexibility and incentive to stay in their homes longer. Residents are eligible for the Aging-In-Place Tax Credit if they are 65 or older and have either lived in their dwelling for 40 years or are a retired member of the military. The credit may be granted for up to five years as long as the property owner remains qualified. The Aging-in-Place Tax Credit provides a 20 percent tax credit on up to $500,000 of assessed property value. A property owner cannot receive this credit and the Senior Tax Credit simultaneously. While new applications won’t be processed in time for the credit to appear on the initial billing mailed on July 1, amended bills will be mailed to qualified homeowners. If payment has already been made, a refund will be generated. As the county’s older adult population continues to grow rapidly, I want to assure you that I have their best interests at heart. We will continue to examine available options to help all residents live well and thrive in our community for as long as possible. Have a happy and healthy summer!

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The 50+ Connection

J U L Y 2 0 1 7 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

Is That “Home For Rent” for REAL or Another Scam? By Rebecca Bowman, Administrator, Howard County Office of Consumer Protection This summer, millions of Americans are planning to move to a new rental home or apartment. They may be recent college graduates looking for their first home or parents who wait for summer break to minimize disruption for their school-aged children. It can be an exciting time, but you need to be careful not to fall victim to a fraudulent rental scam.

How the Scam Works You search for an apartment or house using a listing website such as Craigslist or Zillow. When you find one that’s of interest, you contact the listed owner or representative. The contact patiently answers questions, negotiates the price and goes over who is responsible for maintenance. They have you sign a lease and request a security deposit and one month’s rent. Once you pay, however, they disappear and you realize that there was never an actual home to rent. In some cases, victims have arrived with a moving truck at their new home only to find out that the listing was fictitious, their money is gone and they have no place to go. Fraudsters are pros at making rental listings appear legitimate and providing the details necessary to gain your confidence. Some rip off actual apartment listings so that the pictures, addresses, and details of the unit all check out.

CONSUMER PROTECTION QUESTIONS? DISPUTES? IDENTITY THEFT • LANDLORD/TENANT • FINANCIAL ABUSE • FRAUD SCAMS • SECURITY DEPOSITS • PRODUCTS • SERVICES

6751 Columbia Gateway Dr., Columbia 21046 PHONE EMAIL

Tips to Avoid Being Scammed • Never pay a security deposit or first month’s rent by wire transfer, pre-paid debit card or gift card. Such payments are no different than paying cash, rendering them impossible to trace, and leaving you little recourse if you fall victim to this scam. • Don’t pay for anything before you see the inside of the rental unit. Many scammers will come up with convenient excuses, so insist on seeing the unit before you pay. If the landlord or representative hesitates or refuses, it is very likely a scam. • If you are moving to a new area and cannot visit before the move, ask a friend to look at the apartment. If you don’t know anyone nearby and cannot inspect your new home before paying a deposit, do some research on the listing agent or the management company. • Be wary of leasing an apartment from a long-distance point of contact and/or one that offers to mail you the key once they receive payment. This is a red flag of a scam. Communication will suddenly end once they receive your money. • If you suspect that you have become a victim, report it immediately to the Howard County Office of Consumer Protection by email at consumer@howardcountymd.gov or by phone at 410-313-6420 (voice/relay). For more information on this or other consumer topics, or to request this publication in an alternative format, contact the Howard County Office of Consumer Protection at 410-313-6420.

Share the

of Your 4-legged Friend!

If you are interested in volunteering, or wish to receive a FREE evaluation for your pet, contact: Ingrid Gleysteen, program coordinator 410-313-7461 • igleysteen@howardcountymd.gov

July 6 • 7 to 9 PM

410-313-6420 (VOICE/RELAY) consumer@howardcountymd.gov

Bain 50+ Center

www.howardcountymd.gov/consumer

5470 Ruth Keeton Way Columbia 21044

Loan Closet (continued from previous page) “Our staff and volunteers work together to make every day a little easier, and a little more affordable for those in need,” says Vanessa Hughes, Loan Closet coordinator. “We are always looking for volunteers to clean, inspect and repair donated medical equipment.” Volunteers must be 18 or older; if interested, contact Karen Giese at 410-313-0363 or email kgiese@howardcountymd.gov. With support from its community partners, including the Way Station, Rotary Club of Columbia and Rebuilding Together, the Loan Closet will continue to provide refurbished equipment and resources for older adults, caregivers, children and adults with disabilities to improve their overall quality of life. The Loan Closet is located in the Long Reach Village Center, 8775 Cloudleap Court, Suite #11, in Columbia. The hours of operation are Tuesday/Wednesday/Thursday, 9:00 a.m. to noon and 1:00 to 4:00 p.m., and by appointment. To verify equipment availability, call 410-313-0363 in advance or email loancloset@howardcountymd.gov.

The 50+ Connection is published monthly by the Howard County Office on Aging and Independence. This publication is available in alternate formats upon request. To join our subscriber list, email kahenry@howardcountymd.gov 6751 Columbia Gateway Dr., Suite 200, Columbia, MD 21046 410-313-6410 (VOICE/RELAY) • www.howardcountymd.gov/aging Find us on

www.Facebook.com/HoCoCommunity Kim Higdon Henry, Editor kahenry@howardcountymd.gov

Advertising contained in the Beacon is not endorsed by the Office on Aging and Independence or by the publisher.

The 50+ Connection

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — J U L Y 2 0 1 7

Say you saw it in the Beacon

Be a FRIEND of the 50+EXPO! Sign Up TODAY to Receive Your FRIEND OF THE EXPO Gift Package! ■ One RESERVED seat for “The Capitol Steps” (11 a.m.) ■ One ADMISSION ticket to the 50+EXPO! ■ One EXCLUSIVE “Friends” raffle ticket for a grand prize basket of goodies! ■ A “Friends” RECOGNITION badge to wear at EXPO! ■ Only $20/person

A portion of the proceeds from Friends of the EXPO will benefit the Vivian Reid Community Fund.

Thank you for your support!

Become a Friend of the EXPO today! Contact Jeanne Davis at 410-313-6410 or jwhitedavis@howardcountymd.gov

SUMMER LUNCHEON Thursday, July 20 • 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. EGGSPECTATION 6010 University Blvd., Ellicott City 21043 $21/person includes soda, tea or coffee and gratuity, plus raffle drawings!

RSVP NO LATER THAN JULY 13 to Elaine Widom 410-313-7353 (VOICE/RELAY) • ewidom@howardcountymd.gov

Saturday, September 9 • 10 am to 3 pm North Laurel Community Center 9411 Whiskey Bottom Road, Laurel 20723 For vulnerable adults (18 and older) who would otherwise not have access to quality, affordable treatment. INFO: Miriam Bennett at 410-313-6028 (VOICE/RELAY) or mbennett@howardcountymd.gov

Don’t Miss the 2017 Howard County 50+EXPO!

Friday, October 20 9 am - 4 pm Wilde Lake High School

SENIOR DAY AT THE FAIR Howard County Fair 2017 FREE ADMISSION for ADULTS 62+ Tuesday, August 8 • 10 am to 3 pm

5460 Trumpeter Road, Columbia, MD 21044

VISIT the ACTIVITIES BUILDING for FUN THINGS to DO... RAIN OR SHINE! • Healthy Aging Programs • Demos and Entertainment

1 ADMISSION to benefit the Vivian Reid Community Fund

• • • • • •

170+ Exhibitors Engaging Seminars Lively Entertainment Dynamic Presentations Flu Shots and Health Screenings Resources for All Stages and Ages

• County Services Information • Bingo, Games and Prizes

JOIN US FOR SOME FUN AT THE FAIR!

410-313-6410 (VOICE/RELAY) www.howardcountymd.gov/aging #HoCoEXPO17 facebook.com/HoCoCommunity

www.howardcountymd.gov/aging

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The 50+ Connection

J U L Y 2 0 1 7 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

Howard County 50+ Centers

CALENDAR HIGHLIGHTS Go to www.howardcountymd.gov/50pluscenters for a complete list of events, programs and services.

Bain 50+ Center

Ellicott City 50+ Center

Tuesday, July 11 • 11:00 a.m. — Omega Phi Psi’s

Friday, July 14 • 1:30 p.m. — Greeting Card 101 Friday, July 21 • 1:30 p.m. — Card Crafting: Quilt Cards

Connecting with the Community Party Meet the fraternity brothers at their annual party featuring live music, entertainment and door prize drawings. Lunch will be served; nominal donation applies. Reserve lunch by July 5 at 410-313-7213.

Beginner and advanced paper crafters will create handmade greeting cards in these classes. $9 per class + $3 supply fee. Register at 410-313-1400.

Tuesday, July 18 • 10:00 a.m. — Opera Goes to Hell, Part 1

Older adults are at a higher risk of developing age-related eye diseases. Join Andrew Hammer, MD, ophthalmologist and cataract surgeon from Baltimore Washington Eye Center to learn more. FREE. Register at 410-313-1400.

Dr. Sam Stern’s two-part opera series will focus on operas of the wellknown Faustian legend. $13/person; register by July 13 at 410-313-7213.

Wednesday, July 19 • 1:00 p.m. — The Social Security

Wednesday, July 19 • 11:00 a.m. — The Aging Eye

Administration (SSA) Concert Band

Tuesday, July 25 • 12:30 p.m. — Desert Echoes

This concert band features 35 current and retired SSA employees, other federal agencies and the private sector, led by Director David Silberberg. Enjoy concert band music including marches, show tunes, jazz, and more. Light refreshments served. FREE. RSVP to 410-313-7213.

Seth Kibel, an award-winning woodwind specialist, and Tom Teasley, a globe-trotting percussionist will present a unique musical collaboration, as well as discuss their varied instruments and musical backgrounds. FREE. Register: 410-313-1400.

East Columbia 50+ Center

Glenwood 50+ Center

Wednesdays, July 19 to August 9 • 1:00 p.m. —

Friday, July 7 • 11:00 a.m. — Astronomy Talk

Astrology: Personality and Soul

Join Dr. Joel Goodman to learn about the Great American Solar Eclipse coming up on Monday, August 21. Find out what causes a solar eclipse and where to go to safely view one. FREE. Register at 410-313-5440.

Join Linda Furiate to understand your nature through Astrology; use the elements to learn about your inner emotional nature and what makes you unique. $43/person; register: 410-313-7680.

Wednesday, July 19 • 10:00 a.m. —

Wednesday, July 19 • 10:30 a.m. — Summer Floral Design

Civil War Series: Women in the Civil War

Create a floral display using the bounty of your summer garden under the guidance of a local garden club. $5/person; register at 410-313-7680.

Professor Jenny McClendon will discuss how women participated in the Civil War. FREE. Register at 410-313-5440.

Tuesday, July 25 • 7:00 p.m. — World Language Café

Friday, July 21 • 10:00 a.m. — John Brown’s Raid

Experience an evening of conversation and culture. Speak a language you know or one you are learning at 17 different tables. FREE. Register at 410-313-7680.

Join National Park Service Ranger Brad Berger for an informative discussion about John Brown’s Raid on Harpers Ferry, West Virginia during the Civil War. FREE. Register at 410-313-5440.

Elkridge 50+ Center

North Laurel 50+ Center

Temporary Location: 5660 Furnace Avenue, Elkridge 21075 Friday, July 7 • 10:30 a.m. — Independence Day Fish Fry

Wednesday, July 12 • 11:00 a.m. – 4th of July Summer Jam

Celebrate America’s independence with a fresh fish fry with all your favorite side dishes. Enjoy music, plus games and prizes after lunch. $3/person plus lunch donation. Register at 410-313-5192.

Celebrate Independence Day with a Paul McCartney tribute, performed by award-winning musician, Jed Duvall. Special lunch to follow. $3/person plus lunch contribution. Register at 410-313-0380.

Tuesday, July 11 and Thursday, July 13 • 1:00 p.m. —

Friday, July 14 • 11:00 a.m. —

Anything Goes Clay Workshop

Let’s Dish: Cucumber Veggie Salad

Learn clay hand-building and sculpting techniques as you explore ideas to create a one-of-a-kind piece. $45 (includes materials). Register at 410-313-0380.

Our nutrition specialist will create a healthy, summer lunch. Watch and learn how to prepare a new dish for the hot summer months. FREE; donations accepted. Register at 410-313-5192.

Tuesday, July 18 • 10:00 a.m. — Free Hearing Screenings Hearing loss is common as we age, but there are things you can do to help prevent it. Learn about hearing loss, risk factors and treatment, and get a free hearing screening. Register at 410-313-5192.

Tuesday, July 11 • 10:00 a.m. — Know Your Numbers Find out what your blood pressure numbers are; learn about healthy and unhealthy ranges, and the difference between systolic and diastolic pressure. FREE; presented by a registered nurse. Register at 410-313-0380.

Find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/HoCoCommunity Stay connected to the Howard County Department of Community Resources and Services. Like us today!

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — J U L Y 2 0 1 7

Say you saw it in the Beacon

Law &

Money

INVESTMENT TARGET Target-date retirement mutual funds are a popular, tailored way to save. But because of diversification, they aren’t top performers STUDENT DEBT STILL? You can imperil your retirement by co-signing college loans for adult children or grandchildren

Are you sabotaging your investments? By Arielle O’Shea The stock market has raced to record highs this year, but your portfolio may not show it. In some ways, that’s to be expected: A balanced portfolio won’t post the same returns as the Dow Jones industrial average or the Standard & Poor’s 500, nor should it. You would have to be 100 percent invested in stocks to mirror the market’s performance, and that kind of aggressive allocation may not be appropriate for your risk tolerance or time horizon. But generally speaking, if the market is having a good year, your portfolio should be, too. If it’s not, you may want to point a finger toward yourself. “The greatest risk is not the volatility of the market, but the volatility of your own behavior,” said Daniel Crosby, a behavioral finance expert and founder of the investment management firm Nocturne Capital. Crosby said psychologists have identified behaviors that can hurt the way we invest. Here are three that are most likely to drag down your returns, along with strategies to counteract them.

1. Overconfidence

The vast majority of long-term investors shouldn’t trade frequently. Those who do,

open themselves up not just to more risk but also to increased transaction fees and tax consequences, both of which can drag down returns. “One of the reasons investors trade more than they should is that they think they know more than they do,” said Terrance Odean, a professor of finance at the University of California, Berkeley, who researches investor behavior. “They think they have more ability than they have, they end up trading more than they should, and that hurts their returns.” If you tend to keep an enthusiastic finger on the buy or sell button, stay away from individual stocks and their volatility, which can tempt you to make frequent trades. Instead, invest through index funds, which passively track a segment of the market. These funds are low-cost and well-diversified, and they frequently edge out even professional investors, like those at the helm of actively managed mutual funds. According to Morningstar’s most recent Active/Passive Barometer, which measures the performance of actively managed funds against their passive counterparts, the average dollar in passive funds typically outperforms the average dollar in actively managed funds.

2. Fear of loss

“We hate loss more than twice as much as we like comparably sized gains. Win $50 at a casino and it’s kind of ‘meh,’ but lose $50 out of your wallet and it ruins your night,” Crosby said. Because of that, we may hold on to poor investments longer than we should to put off recognizing a loss, or flee to cash at any sign of a downturn. When the market is trending down, it’s reasonable to expect your portfolio to do the same — and it’s wise to stick it out. On the other hand, it’s worth regularly evaluating and potentially letting go of market outliers that are suffering sustained losses or investments that no longer fit your long-term plan. To temper a fear of loss, set a long-term strategy and then try dollar-cost averaging, which involves dribbling a set amount of money into your investments at regular intervals. If you contribute to a 401(k) or make scheduled transfers into an individual retirement account, you already do this. Because with averaging you’re always investing the same dollar amount, you’re buying more shares when prices are low and fewer when prices are high. The former can take some of the pain out of a falling market, since you’re getting what feels like a discount on subsequent purchases.

Investing according to a predetermined plan like this also takes emotion out of the game. “If you’re excited, it’s a bad idea,” Crosby said. “Good investing is painfully boring.”

3. Not reevaluating

If you read only political websites that align with your views, or block Facebook friends with opposing politics, you already know what this means: It’s the tendency to discount information that discredits your established beliefs. As investors, we do this in part because we put money — sometimes a lot of money — behind the decision we’ve made. We don’t want to hear it’s a bad one. But that money will benefit from balanced research, both into future investments and the ones you already hold. When you rebalance your portfolio or re-evaluate your strategy, look at each investment as if you’re buying it for the first time, and dive into research from varied sources. And if you can’t or don’t want to do that? Then you can turn back to an index fund, work with a financial adviser, or hold your accounts at an automated financial adviser — often called a robo-adviser — which is an online service that manages investments for you. — Nerdwallet, via AP

Index funds still beating managed ones By Stan Choe Welcome to where nearly everyone is below average. It’s the world where investors try to pick which mutual funds will beat the market. It sounds great in theory, but the odds of doing it successfully over the long term can be slimmer than winning a lotto prize. Twice each year, S&P Dow Jones Indices checks how fund managers are performing against indexes in various categories. For the first time, it has a full 15 years of data to compare. That stretch of time captures not only two big rallies for the stock market (2002-07 and 2009 to today), but also the worst downturn since the Great Depression (2007-09), which means it should offer a look at the full breadth of a manager’s skills. Most funds did poorly relative to their index — and not just ones that focus on

U.S. stocks, whose performance has been getting the heaviest scrutiny. The majority of bond funds and foreign stock funds also failed to keep pace with their indexes for the 15 years through 2016. The natural reaction after seeing such numbers is to give up on funds that try to beat the index, and investors are doing just that, by the billions of dollars. But that may be confusing cause and effect a bit. More on that later. First, the numbing numbers:

better than all but one of the 175 small-cap growth stock funds available 15 years ago. That’s a success rate of just 0.6 percent. Chances are better for winning one of the prizes in the Powerball game, where the odds are 1 in 25, or roughly 4 percent. One big reason is that many funds simply disappear over time. More than half of all U.S. stock funds either merged with another one or shut down due to poor performance, lack of interest, or other reasons over the 15 years of the study.

Better odds with Powerball?

Low fund fees

For the kind of investment that forms the backbone of most 401(k) plans, less than 8 percent of funds that invest in stocks of big U.S. companies matched or beat the Standard & Poor’s 500 index. Success was even more elusive in other categories. The S&P 600 Growth index did

Another big reason is fees. Funds that charge high expenses must perform that much better just to match the index’s return, let alone beat it. And while the cost of investing has been trending lower, hiring a team of managers and analysts to scrutinize corporate balance sheets still carries a price tag.

Of course, measuring the performance of mutual funds against indexes isn’t entirely fair because indexes have zero costs, and no one can invest directly in them. But index funds and exchange-traded funds do exist, and they try to mimic the performance of indexes at costs that are getting closer to free. Schwab has a fund that tracks the S&P 500 with an expense ratio of 0.03 percent, for example. That means $3 of every $10,000 invested goes to paying expenses annually. Many funds that try to beat the index have expense ratios above 1 percent (which is more than 30 times as much). That extra cost is close to the difference in performance between many actively managed funds and their benchmark indexes. The S&P 500 returned an annualSee INDEX FUNDS, page 20

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J U L Y 2 0 1 7 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

Why target-date funds are so popular By Alex Veiga When it comes to building their retirement nest egg, investors are increasingly betting on the set-it-and-forget-it approach of target-date funds. Such funds, which are designed to minimize risk over time by gradually shifting from stocks to bonds as an investor’s retirement date nears, hit a record $880 billion in assets last year, according to Morningstar Research Services. Target-date funds are the default option for many employee retirement plans, which has helped drive their growth. The plans appeal to people who want to avoid the worry or responsibility of a hands-

on approach to investing, another growing trend. Roughly two of every three dollars that went into target-date plans last year went to those that focused on investing in index funds, which cost less because there’s no portfolio manager picking the investments. We asked Jeff Holt, associate director at Morningstar Research Services, to weigh in on how target-date funds are faring, and what investors should consider when weighing whether to put money into these types of funds. Q: What sets these funds apart from one another, or from simply investing directly in another type of hands-off investment, like an index fund or ETF?

A: The distinguishing feature of targetdate funds is the glide path, which reflects how they shift different asset classes over time. And that’s based upon the age of the investor. While [all target-date funds] share that common thread of having a glide path and becoming more conservatively positioned, shifting from stocks to bonds over time, the manner in which they do it varies significantly. On the equity side, there’s U.S. versus international stocks, or large-cap versus small-cap stocks. Even on the bond side, [differences include] the use of high-yield bonds or Treasury inflation-protected securities. All of these are active decisions

that a target-date (fund) provider is making in delivering a strategy for investors. Q: How have target-date funds performed, on average? A: Benchmarking is complicated with target-date funds because everyone has a different asset mix. They don’t guarantee that an investor will have enough savings at retirement. What they’re designed to do is provide diversification across U.S. stocks, international stocks and bonds, and to do so in a thoughtful manner. Because of the diversification, target-

Index funds

lower, on average. Investors have seen the difference in performance, and because of that have made index funds the hot trend. Nearly $638 billion poured into them during the 12 months through March, according to

Morningstar. Nearly $310 billion left actively managed funds over the same time.

the portfolio manager atop the T. Rowe Price Media & Telecommunications fund, which has returned more over the last 15 years than any fund that doesn’t use borrowed money to juice its returns. His fund makes big investments in Amazon.com, Facebook and a few other stocks — more than half of his fund is invested in just 10 companies — that look set to grow at fast rates. He calls them “race horses,” and he wants to hold them for years to let them compound, even if they have a temporary stumble. “We may not win every race, but if that happens, I don’t get off and shoot the horse,” he said. “If we think we can keep winning races at an above-average level, we want to stay with it because it’s really hard to win races.” The key, in the end, may be more about keeping costs low than in picking an index fund over one that tries to beat the market. It puts a lighter burden on a fund at the starting gate. Morningstar rates expenses at Greene’s fund as low, for example. — AP

From page 19

ized 6.7 percent over the 15 years through 2016, for example. Returns for large-cap U.S. stock funds were 1 percentage point

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Bond funds do better

The split is most pronounced in stocks. The trend isn’t as strong for bond funds, where both index and actively managed funds are drawing dollars. Bond funds haven’t been quite as bad as stock funds in keeping up with their indexes over the last 15 years, generally. Their performance has also been trending upward recently. Last year, 80 percent of intermediate-term, high-quality bond funds beat the index. And bond fund managers say conditions are set for them to continue to do better than indexes because the Federal Reserve is raising interest rates again, helping to put an end to the decades-long march lower for bond yields. Stock fund managers say similar things. Of course, they’ve been making the same argument for years, and few have been able to beat the market regardless. Paul Greene is one of the outliers. He’s

See TARGET FUNDS, page 22

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Law & Money

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — J U L Y 2 0 1 7

Student loan debt hobbling more older adults By Anya Kamenetz Older Americans are shouldering far more of the nation’s debt than in years past. The Federal Reserve Bank of New York released numbers recently showing that the share of all household debt held by people aged 60 and older has almost doubled: from 12.6 percent in 2003, to 22.5 percent in 2016. That’s nearly $3 trillion! Mortgages, auto loans, credit cards, and even student loan balances have all grown significantly for older Americans — and

only older Americans. Borrowers under 60 reduced their mortgages and credit card balances relative to the peak during the 2008 financial crisis. It’s one thing to run up a big student loan balance when you are in your 20s going through graduate school and anticipating big salary increases. Or even in your 30s and 40s, putting a down payment on a house, with room to grow and time to pay it off as it appreciates. For people facing retirement, however,

BEACON BITS

July 12+

UNDERSTANDING THE CLOUD Howard County Community College is offering a Wednesday and

Friday online course on the Cloud and how it works, beginning Wednesday, July 12 and concluding Friday, August 18. Tuition is $125; a discount of $35 is available for persons 60 and over. For more information, visit ed2go.com/howardcc or call (443) 518-4680.

July 13

TED TALK SCREEING In this monthly program, the Miller Branch library presents a variety

of TED (Technology, Entertainment, Design) Talks to view and discuss. The free program takes place on Thursday, July 13 at 7 p.m. The library is located at 9421 Frederick Rd., Columbia. Registration is required online at hclibrary.org/classesevents/on-screen or by calling the library at (410) 313-1950.

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this growing debt is a far more serious proposition.

Loans taken for children

Take student loans as an example. We usually think of these as a young person’s problem. But seniors are holding $67 billion in student loans, and the number of seniors holding such loans has quadrupled since 2005. That makes older folks the fastest-growing segment of the student loan borrower population, according to a

January report by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). Some of these loans are decades old. These include loans older people took out for their own education and did not pay off. But the majority are loans taken out or cosigned for children and grandchildren, both federal PLUS loans and private student loans. The bad news is that, as people get See STUDENT LOANS, page 22

Law & Money | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

Target funds From page 20

date funds will never be the top performer. They should also not be the poorest performer. More or less they should give a balanced mix in terms of performance.

Student loans From page 21

older, their student loans are more likely to go into default, triggering ballooning penalties and fees. The CFPB found that

J U L Y 2 0 1 7 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

Q: You say it’s too soon to determine if target-date funds will prove effective over the long haul. What’s the concern here? A: Target-date funds are meant to be a multi-decade investment. They’ve been around since the early 90s, but it was the

Pension Protection Act of 2006 that really boosted interest in target-date funds. So a lot of these strategies don’t have a long track record. It’s still not proven for certain that these strategies will deliver the returns that investors expect. We’ve seen some promising signs.

More often than not, investors tend to follow performance. They’re buying high and selling low. Just the construct of having a targetdate fund — and just continuing to contribute to a fund that will change over time — has helped investors. — AP

default rates among borrowers 65 and older were almost 40 percent — more than twice the rate of younger borrowers. A defaulted student loan can ruin your credit, meaning larger interest rates on other resources, like credit cards. And

worst of all, if you have a federal student loan in default, the government can seize part of your Social Security and disability payments to pay it.

on your income — which works in your favor if you are retired and living on a limited or fixed income. One caveat: Affordable payment plans can balloon the balance when the monthly payment is set below the level that would cover interest. But honestly, for people later in life this is less of a concern than losing access to Social Security benefits. These plans include pay-as-you-earn, income-contingent repayment, and incomebased repayment, and you might even pursue public service loan forgiveness. There are several different plans, and the options can be confusing. Check https://studentaid. ed.gov for more information. If you are in default on student loans, there is a process called rehabilitation to get out of default. Again, contact Federal Student Aid, an office of the Education Department, at the web address above. Anya Kamenetz welcomes your questions at diyubook@gmail.com. © 2017 Anya Kamenetz. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC

What can be done?

If you are over 60 and don’t have any student loans, the obvious answer is don’t take them out. Especially not for someone else — not if you can’t afford to pay them back right away. And if you could, why would you be borrowing? They are a massive liability. Certainly, it can be difficult to tell a child or grandchild that you can’t afford to help them achieve their educational goals and dreams. But honestly, it would be better to help them along with cash, if you have some to spare, than to enter into an obligation for a decade or more. The tax-free gift limit in 2017 1s $14,000. If you are over 60 and have student loans, get into an affordable payment plan to lower your monthly obligations. Under these plans, the monthly payment is based

BEACON BITS

July 18

FIRST LADIES’ JEWELRY

A look at the jewelry of Martha Washington, Mary Todd Lincoln and Jackie Kennedy within historical context will be presented on Tuesday, July 18 at 7 p.m. at the Miller Branch Library, 9421 Frederick Rd., Ellicott City. The presenter is Elyse Zorn Karlin, publisher and editor of Adornment, a magazine of jewelry and related arts. The talk is free, but registration is preferred by calling (410) 313-1950 or by going online to hclibrary.org/classes-events/history-lives.

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H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — J U L Y 2 0 1 7

Say you saw it in the Beacon

Leisure &

Travel

Long-distance Amtrak trains face cuts under Trump’s proposed budget. Learn about scenic routes to take, while you still can, on page 25.

Sublime wine, scenery in central Virginia A one-stoplight county, Nelson is a mix of hip yuppie and down home country. You can sip chardonnay at a winery one minute, and sniff “fragrant” cowpiles warming in the sun the next. “Nelson County is becoming the ‘Napa Valley of the East,’” says Connie Brennan, a Board of Supervisors’ member.

Apples, fresh and fermented

PHOTO COURTESY OF WINTERGREEN RESORT

Nelson County’s Fruit Loop Trail (www.blueridgefruitloop.net) is a series of farms and orchards selling pre-picked and pick-your-own apples and other fruit. The county has long been an applegrowing region, said John Bruguiere with Dickie Brothers Orchard. “The higher elevations above 900 feet provide a good altitude. The higher the elevation, the cooler the night temperatures during the growing season, which helps develop [apples’] red color,” he explained. Apple trees do well on slopes where water drains away. “Since there was little else to do with hilly land, apples are a good fit,” he added. And, he jokes, “Most of our cows have two legs shorter than the others from walking on hillsides.” The Brew Ridge Trail (www.brewridgetrail.com) showcases the craft beers, ales and lagers of five breweries. The county has three distilleries, like Silverback which offers enticing spirits like Strange Monkey gin. Ten wineries host tours and tasting rooms for trying wines like chardonnay, merlot, pinot gris and more. Veritas Vineyards and Winery, which boasts a wine portfolio reflecting 15 years of hard work, features tours of the crush pad, wine cellar The Wintergreen Resort’s 9,000 acres of protected land includes miles of hiking trails. Visitors can indulge in a massage or other spa treatment afterward at the resort, which includes a variety of lodging, from hotel rooms to vacation houses.

PHOTO COURTESY OF VERITAS VINEYARD & WINERY

By Glenda C. Booth The masseuse’s golf balls gently rolling across my back in the dimly-lit spa put me into a Zen-like trance. So did the thick clumps of interrupted ferns carpeting the forest floor as I hiked, while the haunting, flute-like call of the wood thrush wafted through the trees. And a little while later, in a cider taproom, the sparkling hard cider gave me a slight buzz. This is Nelson County, Va., population 15,000 — a place for reverie, revelry and recreation. With mountains on the west and the James River on the south, it’s a smalltown, bucolic county in the Blue Ridge foothills, 175 miles southwest of Columbia. Wintergreen Resort, an all-season playground, offers spa services, golf, tennis, dining, nature walks, performing arts, winter skiing and more. Down below, in Rockfish Valley, wineries, cideries, breweries and distilleries have sprung up like spring wildflowers in recent years. They dot the rural landscape between the county’s seven orchards and fields of contented black Angus cows. Sunsets paint the mountains a bluish-purple every evening.

The view from the Veritas Vineyard and Winery looks beyond the vineyard to the misty Blue Ridge Mountains that form the backdrop to central Virginia’s rural Nelson County. Wine, beer, spirits and apple cider are widely crafted in the county.

and barrel room, and talks on wine-making basics. Cideries are increasingly popular. Nelson has two: Bold Rock and Blue Toad. Bold Rock, next to the South Fork of the Rockfish River, bottles five days a week and presses 80,000 pounds of apples weekly. On cidery tours Tuesday to Saturday, visitors can learn the fine details of making hard cider. Here, the citrusy Indian Pressed Apple is a favorite. Former U.S. President and Virginia ciderist Thomas Jefferson hailed the beverage as “nearer to silky Champagne than any other.” Cidermakers like Charlotte Shelton of Albemarle Ciderworks promote their product’s drinkability and low alcohol content (five to seven percent).

Hurricanes and history

Hurricane Camille devastated Nelson County in 1969 when this Category 5 monster of a storm unexpectedly hurtled through the county’s heart, dumped over 27 inches of rain in five hours, and left a trail of devastation and death behind. The whole story — tragedies and heroics — is relayed in detail at Oakland, the Nelson County Museum of History, such as painful recountings of youngsters snagged in trees as family members are washed away. The museum is in a red brick, Greek Revival house built in the early 1800s. By 1838,

it became an “ordinary” — a combination inn and tavern on the Stage Road, now route 29, where the Washington City to Lynchburg stage coach ran past three times a week. Visitors today see the tavern room with exposed beams and a “cage bar” replica — a tavern-keepers’ container for locking up the spirits overnight. Other exhibits explore the county’s public school history, and electricity’s arrival in the 1930s. Oral histories describe life in the country without electricity. Learn more at www.historicnelson.org. The county seat, Lovingston, founded in 1808, is an historic district. The star “attraction,” if you’re not in legal trouble, is the historic courthouse which opened in 1810, a stuccoed brick building in the English town-hall style. The little town of Schuyler gets its fame as the hometown of Earl Hamner, the creator of “The Waltons” — a 1970s television series about a family living in the rural Blue Ridge mountains during the Depression. The Walton Museum is a replica of the studio set of the Waltons’ television home, including John-Boy’s bedroom, the living room and the kitchen. Ike’s General Store set is a souvenir shop for Walton memorabilia. In March, most of the surviving actors who played the characters on the See VIRGINIA, page 24

Leisure & Travel | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

Virginia From page 23

show came to the museum for a reunion, attended by hundreds of fans.

The great outdoors

If sipping cider or Chablis in the sunshine isn’t quite enough nature, there’s plenty more. Twenty-five miles of the Appalachian Trail slice through the county. The Virginia Blue Ridge Railway Trail follows the banks of the Piney and Tye Rivers, along a former short-line, timberhauling railway. Also along the Blue Ridge Parkway is Crabtree Falls, one of the highest, vertical-drop cascading waterfalls east of the Mississippi River with five major cascades that plummet 1,200 feet. One overlook is near the upper parking lot. The adventurous can hike the 2½-mile Crabtree Falls Trail to four other overlooks. Naked Mountain harbors some rare plants, like shooting stars, on globally-rare

J U L Y 2 0 1 7 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

landscapes known as barrens and woodlands. Crawford Knob is home to a rare type of swamp, called a mountain-piedmont basic seepage swamp, where orchids, lilies, ferns, grasses and sedges thrive. The Quarry Gardens in Schuyler have various native plant communities around a former soapstone quarry. Visitor center exhibits explain local ecosystems and the soapstone industry.

Lavish Wintergreen

“Sumptuous luxury” is how Wintergreen’s publicists describe the four-season, 11,000-acre resort, most of which sits atop Wintergreen Mountain. The spa promises to “restore balance to your body, soul and spirit.” Choices include aromatherapy massage, Blue Ridge Swedish massage, mountain stone massage, Blue Ridge mud wrap, lavender body glow, destress eye treatment and a gentleman’s facial. And there are seasonal indulgences like a berries and cream facial (summer), a

pumpkin chai pampering (fall) and a fig manicure and pedicure (winter). The resort also has golf clinics, meditative yoga, swimming, archery, miniature golf, children’ activities and winter tubing and skiing, thanks to “automated snowmaking.” Accommodations include individual rooms, studios, homes, and condominiums with up to nine-bedrooms. The Mountain Inn has lodge-type rooms. Four restaurants offer “Southern-inspired cuisine,” Mediterranean dishes, burgers, pub fare and gourmet pizzas. Sumptuous and upscale are certainly respectable choices at Wintergreen, but visitors on top of a mountain surrounded by 9,000 protected acres and many trails might want to also get outdoors. Resort officials take pride in their environmental stewardship, and partner with the Nature Foundation at Wintergreen, dedicated to conserving the natural and cultural resources of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Outdoor trekkers might see flying squir-

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rels, wood rats, bears, coyotes, bobcats, deer, turkeys and many birds. The Trillium House, headquarters of the Foundation, offers hikes, lectures and other nature-oriented programs. Wandering, wining, dining and picking locally-grown, golden delicious apples can yield some golden delicious days in Virginia’s Nelson County.

If you go

Getting there: Nelson County is a 3 1/2 hour drive from Columbia, taking I-66 west and then Rt. 29 south. The closest Amtrak station and airport are in Charlottesville. The Nelson County Visitor Center has lists of transportation services, like limos, to Nelson, some of which offer one-day wine and brewery tours. Information on Lovingston is available at www.virginia.org/cities/Lovingston. Lodging: Wintergreen’s wide array of options is available in a range of prices. Basic hotels rooms range from $134 to $244 a night, while condos start at $149 for a one-bedroom to $439 for a five-bedroom. See www.wintergreenresort.com or call (434) 325-2200. Besides Wintergreen, there is one motel in Nelson County, the Village Inn in Lovingston, http://villageinnlovingston. webs.com, (434) 263-5068. The Nelson County tourism site has a list of B&Bs, cabins and campsites. See www.nelsoncounty-va.gov/departments/tourism or call (434) 263-7015. Dining: Besides Wintergreen and brewery/winery fare, Basic Necessities is a cozy French café in Nellysford serving fresh breads, imported cheeses and dishes using produce from local farms. After co-owner Kay Pfaltz spent 10 years in Paris, settled in Nellysford and could not find suitable bread, wine and cheese, she started the restaurant. See http://basicnecessities.us or call (434) 361-1766. There are many events in the region throughout the year, and frequent live music at breweries and cideries. Check http:// www.nelsoncounty-va.gov/events/category/ events-calendar/. Examples: summer, strawberry picking, the James River Batteaux (June 17-24), Lockn’ Music Festival (Aug. 2427); fall, apple picking, apple-butter making, The Festy Experience (October 5-8).

BEACON BITS

June 27

DEALING WITH DIABETES

A two-hour course offering ways to deal with Type 2 diabetes, including exercises and meal planning, will be held Tuesday, June 27 from 8 to 11 a.m. at the Howard County General Hospital Wellness Center, 10710 Charter Drive, Columbia. The course is also open to persons who care for someone with diabetes. The fee is $25. For more information or to register, visit hcgh.org or call (410) 740-7601.

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Leisure & Travel

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — J U L Y 2 0 1 7

The last call for long-distance train trips? Trump’s budget proposes to cut all funding for Amtrak long-distance trains. The administration isn’t happy with Amtrak’s ongoing losses, and long-distance trains face an uncertain future. So if you’re interested in a long rail trip, you don’t have to worry for this year, but the future will be much cloudier.

ments in both directions passing close to Glacier National Park, and through the Columbia River Gorge eastbound from Portland to Spokane. • The Coast Starlight between Los Angeles and Seattle, with daytime segments from Emeryville or San Jose to Los Angeles along the coastal route of the famed Daylight. Except for the one-day Most scenic trips Adirondack, if you’re doing a For most people, the main land cruise with one or two reason to ride a long-haul Am- TRAVEL TIPS nights onboard, you’ll want a trak train is to enjoy the scenery By Ed Perkins private compar tment. Alin comfor t. And rail buf fs though they’re expensive, around the country generally agree on Am- they’re selling out fast for the peak sumtrak’s top four scenic long-haul trips with mer season. good daytime viewing (which I list east to Long term, however, you might be inwest): clined to worry. Long-distance trains are • The Adirondack between New York money losers, costing taxpayers someand Montreal, with great all-day Hudson where in the vicinity of $200 per passenger River and Lake Champlain viewing in both in coach, up to double that in sleepers. directions. Furthermore, today’s long-distance • California Zephyr between Chicago trains serve no essential transportation and Emeryville (near San Francisco), with role. Air travel and buses are both faster top daytime segments westbound through and more efficient: air for long hauls, the Rockies from Denver to Salt Lake City, buses for short trips. Those luxury trains and in both directions between Emeryville are really “land cruises” for people who and Reno over Donner Pass. like trains, and even the most vocal sup• The Empire Builder between Chicago porters have a tough time justifying their and Seattle/ Portland, with daytime seg- heavy subsidies.

Consider Canada

If you’re really interested in an extended train trip — but not quite ready for the trans-Siberian express — your best bet remains the Canadian, on VIA Rail Canada, between Toronto and Vancouver. You go through some terrific mountain scenery during the four-night trip, along with some fascinating semi-wilderness north of Lake Superior. With four nights on a train, you’ll want at least a sleeper and, more likely, a compartment. Sleeper/compartment fares include all meals — prepared fresh in a real dining car, not a microwaved “snack.” As with Amtrak, the Canadian’s popular single and double compartments are already sold out on many summer trips, so consider wait-

ing for fall. Buy tickets at virarail.ca on any “discount Tuesday” for the best prices; kids and riders 60 or over get discounts. In the longer term, many economists conclude that the future of passenger railroading lies in frequent, high (or at least “higher”) speed trains on routes of up to 400 miles to and from hub cities that suffer both highway and air traffic overloads. That’s why the Northeast Corridor will survive. That’s also where the Midwestern folks are placing their chips with incremental speed and frequency improvements on the corridors radiating from Chicago, and what California is trying to do with its high-speed project. © 2017 Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Leisure & Travel | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

J U L Y 2 0 1 7 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

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Say you saw it in the Beacon

Arts &

Style

Read an excerpt from The Truth of the Russian Revolution in the continuation of our cover story on page 28.

Exhibit displays 50 years of memorabilia

Focus on the arts

The exhibit of some 60 artifacts is meant to show how one of Rouse’s principal goals

for Columbia has come to fruition through the community’s many organizations dedicated to the arts and culture. The Columbia Foundation, created by the Rouse Company, kicked off the arts and culture component, said Barbara Kellner, the community’s chief archivist. She and Thomas Engleman, director of Howard Community College’s galleries, co-curated the exhibit. Rouse “really put a lot of attention in making the arts and culture available to all of Columbia’s residents,” said Kellner, who has been managing the community’s archival history for the past 34 years. When the Merriweather pavilion was opened, it became the summer home of the National Symphony Orchestra until the orchestra moved its summer performances to Wolf Trap, in Vienna, Va. Rouse was presented with a lifetime ticket to all National Symphony performances, noted Kellner. The silver ticket can be seen in the exhibit. Also on display is the first quilt made by the original 15 members of the Faithful Circle Quilters. That Columbia group, dedicated to See COLUMBIA’S 50TH, page 29

N OW O N STAGE

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TobysDinnerTheatre.com Due to the nature of theatrical bookings, !!"#$%&#" '("( )*#" +*"#,-.*/)")%"/$ '0*1""2""3%-45#"67''*+"3$* )+*8"9%!,:-7 8";6

COURTESY OF THE ROUSE COMPANY GALLERY

By Robert Friedman What do a vinyl recording of Jackson Browne’s “Running on Empty,” a five-foot model for a towering fiberglass and gold leaf tree, and a photo showing then-Vice President Hubert Humphrey with heiressbusinesswoman-philanthropist Marjorie Merriweather Post and real estate developer Jim Rouse have in common? That’s right: They are among artifacts related to the many-months-long celebration of the 50th anniversary of the June 21, 1967 founding of Columbia. They, and many other items. are on exhibit through July 17 at the Rouse Company Gallery at the Horowitz Center for the Performing Arts. Part of Browne’s recording, one of the best-selling records of the 1970s, was made during a performance at the Merriweather Post Pavilion, the opening of which in 1967 is marked in the Humphrey-Merriweather Post-Rouse photo. The People Tree sculpture stands 35 feet tall in downtown Columbia, a “tree of life” symbol for the residents.

As part of the 50th anniversary celebration of Columbia, an exhibit at the Horowitz Center for the Performing Arts includes dozens of artifacts that illustrate Columbia’s last half century, including theater memorabilia, paintings and pottery.

Arts & Style | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

Memoirs From page 1

brothers one hour of daily Russian lessons — died in 1950 at 75.

“I don’t remember my grandfather,” said Marinich. “He died when I was 5. But I do remember my grandmother, whom my grandfather called ‘a saint and a loving woman.’” Marinich’s parents, Georgi Miloshevich

J U L Y 2 0 1 7 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

and Lydia Konstantinova, fled St. Petersburg after the February 1917 events, when the czar abdicated and the Russian Duma temporarily took control of the country. Miloshevich had been a captain in the

Excerpts from The Truth of the

Russian Revolution From General Globachev’s narrative about Rasputin:

“My official duties caused me to cross paths with Rasputin, since all the external surveillance over him for the last two years of his life crossed my desk. I became acquainted with him in 1915, when he was at the height of his influence. In general, he made a fairly pleasant impression on me; his appearance was rather rough....He had a soft, pleasant voice and his speech was that of a common peasant, but smart. The only thing that was not pleasant about him was that, when he spoke to someone, he did not look them in the eyes... In addition to his attraction to women, Rasputin had a passion for drinking and debauchery. This was exploited by his entourage, who seduced him with these things almost on a daily basis....The revelry lasted well into the night and ended at five or six in the morning...They generally drank until they lost their senses, and all

this was accompanied by frenzied dancing and depraved activities with loose women. One had to be amazed at Rasputin’s strong constitution. After these orgies ended in the morning, he went to a bathhouse and, by the way, not sleeping more than two hours, he was refreshed and ready to start anew.”

Sofia Globacheva’s description of the initial turmoil:

“February 27 was a fateful day for Russia and for everyone. Just the day before, the city [St. Petersburg] came to a stop. The city was in semi-darkness and there were all kinds of rumors going about... My husband and his subordinates were in the office the entire night. The morning report stated that crowds were on the way, demolishing government buildings and killing officials, and were moving toward our residence... Early in the morning a servant suddenly

IT BENEF TING Neighbor Ride d County Howaron Aging Office

Independence’s Vivian L. Reid Community Fund

ran in screaming that armed soldiers were coming our way. We went down a back staircase and exited into a courtyard, but soldiers were coming toward us. They had already stopped in front of us when suddenly there was intense rifle and machine gun fire — the revolutionaries were taking the station by storm. “The soldiers were taken aback, and for a moment seemed confused, and we took advantage of that moment and ran out into the street and quickly walked down the street while bullets were whistling past us. My husband and his assistant walked on, but I didn’t have the strength and began to lag behind as machine gun fire continued without stop. The machine gun fire intensified so much that I couldn’t stand it anymore, and I stopped and pressed myself against a wall. Some sergeant major had also pressed himself against the wall next to me and we both waited to be killed any second.”

czar’s cavalry, and joined in the unsuccessful attempt of the czar’s supporters, known as White Russians, to defeat the Red Russians (Bolshevik socialists), led by Lenin. Konstantinova was a teenager when her family fled from St. Petersburg to Kiev to Constantinople and finally to the United States in the early 1920s. Her father, who had been a general in the czar’s army, would have been a marked man had he remained.

Remembering the revolution

How did Marinich’s grandparents view “the truth” of the Russian Revolution, as the title of his book puts it? Among other things, his grandfather, who was part of the everyday political scene in pre-revolutionary Russia, saw the February 1917 upheaval as more of the government’s collapse due to incompetence — especially in the Duma, the Russian parliament — than an outright overthrow, Marinich said. “When my grandfather wrote his memoirs in 1922, he noted that there was a lot of turmoil leading up to the February event, and he gave as a significant cause the fact that Russia was losing [World War I],” he said. On the other hand, the October 1917 Revolution was, according to Globachev — and most other Russian historians, including Marinich — something else. “My grandfather knew that the Bolsheviks See MEMOIRS, page 29

Columbia’s 50th

More anniversary events

quilting, has grown to some 100 members. The eight-foot by seven-foot quilt, which features a representation of the People Tree surrounded by symbols of Columbia’s 10 villages, was displayed in Rouse’s Wilde Lake home, and has not been seen in public since 1971, said Kellner. There are also photos, ceramics, carvings, tapestries, scenery, documents and more from other Columbia creators and arts venues, including the African-American Museum of Maryland, the Pro-Cantare vocal group, the Columbia Arts Center, the Columbia Orchestra, the Hocopolitso (Howard County Poetry and Literature Society), Toby’s Dinner Theatre, the Columbia Center for Theatrical Arts, and The Young Columbians. The exhibit can be visited between 10 a.m. and 9:30 p.m. daily in the gallery at the Horowitz Center for the Performing Arts, 10901 Little Patuxent Parkway, Columbia. For more information, call (443) 518-3202 or see www.howardcc.edu/discover/arts-culture/horowitz-center.

Other 50th anniversary events in the last weeks of June and in July include: • An exhibit by realist painter Mary Jo Messenger of Columbia’s past and present through her portraits of the community’s residents. Slayton House, 10400 Cross Fox Lane, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., 410-730-3987. June 19-July 29. • A free outdoor concert by the Columbia Orchestra at the new Chrysalis Stage at Merriweather Post Pavilion. Concert-goers can pack a picnic dinner, spread out a blanket, and enjoy highlights from My Fair Lady, familiar hits by The Beatles, the iconic “1812 Overture,” and an epic “Happy Birthday” singalong. Chrysalis at Symphony Woods, 10475 Little Patuxent Parkway, 7 p.m., 410-4658777. June 21. • A story-telling event by seven non-professional speakers who will share true tales about movies that have significantly impacted their lives. Smith Theatre at the Horowitz Performing Arts Center, 10901 Little Patuxent Parkway, 8-10 p.m., $18, 410-997-2324. June 23.

Memoirs

ing is done to improve the economy, it would turn political.”

got a fair amount of the population on their side. They promised peace, land and bread. My grandfather gave grudging credit to the Bolsheviks for their plan, which reached the peasantry,” Marinich said. “But he was very critical of the members of the Russian intelligentsia who supported the revolution. “In the first years of the Communist government, from 1921 to 1926, Lenin actually tried to promote those [peaceful] goals. Many people — not only in Russia, but throughout the world — had hope that the Revolution could produce good results. Then Stalin took over, and it was worse than any time in the past.” Marinich noted that among the revolutionaries who knew of his grandfather was Leon Trotsky, who referred to the police chief as “the respected General Globachev.” Marinich said that he learned much about his grandfather not only through the memoirs, but also on visits to the state archives in Moscow between 2002 and 2004. “I read his reports. As things started to get nasty in 1917, he wrote about the unhappiness of the people, and [noted] that it was not political but economic, and if noth-

Russia today

From page 27

From page 28

Recent news stories note that Putin and the Kremlin intend to sit out the centenary celebration of the Russian Revolution, even though it transformed the country and the world, and brought about an ideological confrontation with the U.S. and most of the West that still resonates. The official reason for almost ignoring the event, according to an article in The New York Times, is that Russia “remains too divided over the consequences of that fateful year.” However, said the article, “The more likely explanation...is that President Vladimir V. Putin loathes the very idea of revolution, not to mention the thought of Russians dancing in the streets to celebrate the overthrow of any ruler.” Marinich was asked what he thought about Putin. “Not much” was his answer. And what about the supposed close relationship between the Russian leader and President Trump? “They’re like Abbott and Costello.” Who is straight man Abbott and who is comic Costello? “You decide,” Marinich said.

BEACON BITS

July 12

FREE REGGAE CONCERT

Funky reggae band The Scotch Bonnets will perform a free concert on Wednesday, July 12 at 7 p.m. at Centennial Park South, 10000 Rte. 108, Ellicott City. The concert is sponsored by the Howard County Department of Recreation & Parks. For more information, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/sunsetserenades.

Ongoing

NEW OUTDOOR PICKLEBALL COURTS

Howard County Recreation & Parks recently opened two newlyconstructed pickleball courts at Atholton Park in response to residents’ requests for places to play the badminton-like sport. Atholton Park is located at 6875 Greenleigh Dr., Columbia, behind Atholton Elementary School. For more information, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/atholtonpark or call (410) 313-2022.

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Arts & Style

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — J U L Y 2 0 1 7

• The showing of seven short films presented by the Howard County Autism Society and Arc of Howard County — a nonprofit that provides services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities — that feature the stories of individuals with disabilities, with post-screening Q&A sessions. Monteabaro Hall at Howard Community College, 10901 Little Patuxent Parkway, 4 to 8 p.m., $15, 443-518-1000. June 24. • The annual Independence Day dance

and fireworks display. Downtown Columbia Lakefront, 5 to 10 p.m., Free, 410-313-4700. July 4. • The aforementioned Jackson Bowne appears with Willie Nelson at Merriweather Post Pavilion, which is also celebrating its 50th anniversary. Also on the bill is Father John Misty and special guest host Grace Potter. Merriweather Post Pavilion, 10475 Little Patuxent Pkwy; 6 p.m., Tickets start at $65. 1-877-435-9849. July 15.

ANSWERS TO CROSSWORD

FROM PAGE 30 ANSWERS TO SCRABBLE

J U M P

A S I A

R E P A Y

E R O D E

W A L L F L O W E R

S P A M

T O N E

R I G S

G F E L E S T E E S T O F S E R F L E C O B E R O N G N T E L S Y

T A X I

U P E N D

Y O E U L F W E T E S P A I R E S

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

A D A M S

T A R O

C H A R

H O N E

A N C O S E R N T H E E R R S O U T A L M O R Y A G U E S E L L R E P

ANSWERS TO JUMBLE Jumbles: VOCAL LEAVE SCHOOL JOSTLE Answer: What the reckless driver gave the barber -A CLOSE SHAVE

J U L Y 2 0 1 7 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

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Crossword Puzzle

Daily crosswords can be found on our website: www.TheBeaconNewspapers.com Click on Puzzles Plus By Stephen Sherr By Stephen Sherr 1

4 13

16 19

27 34

28 35

36 40

44 49

Jumble answers on p. 29.

26 33

Scrabble answers on p. 29.

7 15

22 24

50 54

51 55

Across

Down

1.A ___ breaker (candy) 4. Boat-moving boat 7. Go Fish goal 12. Its academy is in CO 14. Be wide open 15. State where you can go from Boise to Menan 16. Pepper grinder 17. CEO, CFO, or CIO 18. Clingy wrap 19. With “The”, the start of a quote about the value of testimony 22. Health club costs 23. Birdbrains 24. Subj. of 1st part of 1st Amendment 26. Very small dog 28. Very small amount of money 29. Nelson Mandela’s party 32. Greek counterpart to Roman Cupid 34. Enemy 36. One with fewer electoral votes 38. Part 2 of quote, some label as a Chinese proverb 42. Winner of five 2017 Grammy awards 43. Organization for aviation regulation 44. Makes a misteak 45. Ump’s shout (with 51 Across) 46. Milk maker 49. Economist’s calc. 51. See 45 Across 52. Green military hat 54. Hockey score 56. Conclusion of quote 62. The business end of a pencil 63. Start of -dox or -dise 64. Chills and fever 65. Figure perched on one shoulder 66. Nation which borders both the Persian Gulf and Caspian Sea 67. “Buy the rumor; ___ the news” 68. Unkempt 69. Psychic’s power 70. One of 435 in Congress

1. Enter the pool 2. Largest continent 3. Introverted party guest 4. Prepare for takeoff 5. Put the bottom on the top 6. Insurance spokes-lizards 7. Home of the Montana Grizzlies 8. ___ apple 9. Chief ingredient in poi 10. Burn at the surface 11. Fine-tune 13. Try to get away from zombies 14. Dismounts 20. Enter an alarm’s wake-up time 21. Words the bride and groom say 24. Resolve a loan 25. Wear away slowly 27. “___ can’t handle the truth!” 29. One with detailed maps to the stars 30. Collared jacket 31. Toothpaste originally called “Fluoristan” in 1954 33. French for “salt” (reverse of French for “the”) 35. Santa’s assistant 37. ___ of these days... 39. Not long ago 40. Document the price of merchandise 41. Word forming game 47. Assn. 48. Tearjerker 50. Teller of The Tell-Tale Heart 52. Steak-house leftovers 53. Russian rulers 55. Med. chart notations meaning “against medical advice” 56. Unwanted e-mail 57. Answering machine sound 58. Fixes a sporting event 59. Venus fly ___ 60. ___ of thumb 61. Website with slogan “We know just the place”

Answers on page 29.

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — J U L Y 2 0 1 7

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

Caregivers “CARE YOU CAN TRUST AND AFFORD.” Loving, experienced caregiver for companionship, medication reminders, hygiene care, meal preparation, housekeeping, errands, Dr. appointments. Full/part-time, flat rate for day or live-in care. One week free. Call 301-490-1146.

Say you saw it in the Beacon

For Sale/Rent: Real Estate ROOMS MONTPELIER/LAUREL: Female, non-smoker, no pets, upstairs, drug free and quiet. Kitchen (own refrigerator), laundry, patio. Full-time employed, own auto. 1-301-6763996.

For Sale CEMETERY PLOT: MEADOWRIDGE Memorial Park, double stack, both burials and perpetual maintenance prepaid. Asking 80% of 2002 purchase price. 410-465-7270. TWO NEW, 6-STEP “ACORN” STAIRLIFT (used once) for split-level house. Half price for the two. 410-480-0948 day (Eve to 9 p.m.). 2 SALVADOR DALI woodblock prints from Dante’s Divine Comedy. Signed and framed. Asking $900 for the pair. Can email pictures if desired. Call Steve 410-913-1653.

TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED Deadlines and Payments: Ad text and payment is due by the 5th of each month. Note: Only ads received and prepaid by the deadline will be included in the next month’s issue. Please type or print your ad carefully. Include a number where you can be reached in the event of a question. Payment is due with ad. We do not accept ads by phone or fax, nor do we accept credit cards. Private Party Text Ads: For individuals seeking to buy or sell particular items, or place a personal ad. Each ad is $10 for 25 words, 25 cents for each additional word. Business Text Ads: For parties engaged in an ongoing business enterprise. Each ad is $25 for 25 words, 50 cents for each additional word. Note: Each real estate listing counts as one business text ad. Send your classified ad with check or money order, payable to the Beacon, to:

Wanted MONEY, TIME TO SELL! Make the right choice. Call Greg, 717-658-7954. We buy jewelry, coins, silver, antiques, watches, gold, art, paper money, toys, bottles, etc. No middleman, no fees, no overhead means more money for your stuff. Give me a call, and let’s do business.717-658-7954. FINE ANTIQUES, PAINTINGS AND QUALITY VINTAGE FURNISHINGS wanted by a serious capable buyer. I am very well educated [law degree] knowledgeable [over 40 years in the antique business] and have the finances and wherewithal to handle virtually any situation. If you have a special item, collection or important estate I would like to hear from you. I pay great prices for great things in all categories from oriental rugs to Tiffany objects, from rare clocks to firearms, from silver and gold to classic cars. If it is wonderful, I am interested. No phony promises or messy consignments. References gladly furnished. Please call Jake Lenihan, 301-279-8834. Thank you.

The Beacon, Baltimore Classified Dept. P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915-2227 Wanted COLLECTOR BUYING MILITARY ITEMS: Helmets, weapons, knives, swords, bayonets, web gear, uniforms, etc. from all wars and countries. Also Lionel Toy Trains, and coin operated machines. Will pay top prices for my personal collection. Discreet consultations. Call Fred, 301-910-0783.

Thanks for reading the Beacon!

BEACON BITS

July 12

FREE REGGAE CONCERT

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Housing

Beacon 50+Expo . . . . . . . . . .3, 27 COGS Meeting . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28

Alta at Regency Crest . . . . . . . . .11 Bayleigh Chase/Integrace . . . . . .22 Brooke Grove . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32 Buckingham’s Choice/Integrace . .22 Charlestown/Erickson Living . . .10 Fairhaven/Integrace . . . . . . . . . . .22 Heartlands Senior Living . . . . . .14 Homecrest House . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Olney Assisted Living . . . . . . . .12 Park View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24

Financial Services First Maryland Disability Trust .21 PENFED Financial Services . . . .21

Funeral Services Going Home Cremations . . . . . .20 Harry H. Witzke’s Family Funeral Home, Inc. . . . . . . . . .29 Sol Levinson & Bros., Inc. . . . . .12

Hearing Services Maryland Relay . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Miracle-Ear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

Home Health Care A-1 Action Nursing Care . . . . . . .8 Options for Senior America . . . .22

Legal Services Frank, Frank & Scherr, LLC . . . .20 Law Office of Karen Ellsworth . .21

Perfect Choice HD . . . . . . . . . . .26 World Class Chiropractic . . . . . . .9

Retail/Services Columbia’s Village Centers . . . .22 WOW! Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

Senior Services Senior Connection . . . . . . . . .15-18

Skilled Nursing & Rehab CommuniCare . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Technology Services Senior CompuCare . . . . . . . . . . . .6 TechMedic4U . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Theatre/Entertainment

Medical/Health

Toby’s Dinner Theatre . . . . . . . . .27

Crossroads Pharmacy . . . . . . . . .10 Lee Dentistry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Medical Eye Center . . . . . . . . . . .9

Tour & Travel Eyre Tour & Travel . . . . . . . . . . .25 Nexus Holidays . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25

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J U L Y 2 0 1 7 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

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