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VOL.33, NO.7

Double Dutch is twice the fun

JULY 2021

I N S I D E …

PHOTO BY JASON SAULER

By Margaret Foster Have you seen the D.C. Retro Jumpers at the Cherry Blossom Festival or another local street fair? The group of six women, all over age 50, twirl two ropes in opposite directions, and people of all ages line up to jump Double Dutch. Sometimes they stop traffic. One driver spotted them, slammed on her brakes and ran over to jump, pumping her arms in the air and grinning. “Just to see the ropes turning brought back so many memories that she had to jump out of her car and jump,” recalled Robbin Ebb, 55, the group’s lead instructor, whose mother taught her the sport. “She was an old-school jumper, so she knew how to jump. She hugged us.” Double Dutch “stimulates the endorphins,” said Joy Jones, a writer who founded D.C. Retro Jumpers in 2004. But it’s the camaraderie that keeps Jones coming back to the sport. “A crowd is always standing by, watching you and encouraging you, and when you get it, people applaud,” Jones said.

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Possible origins of Double Dutch Some historians suggest that Double Dutch originated at the seaports of ancient Phoenicia, Egypt and China, where ropemakers twisted long strands of hemp and others hopped to avoid tripping over them. Dutch settlers brought the tradition to New York City, and the sport became popular in U.S. cities in the early 20th century. Since then, the sport has become the purview of Black American girls, who invent chants to accompany the rhythmic slap of the ropes: “Salute to the captain, bow to the queen, touch the bottom of the submarine.” While Double Dutch is not yet an Olympic sport, it has a spot in the annual World Jump Rope Championship. Other

ARTS & STYLE Author Joy Jones, center, jumps Double Dutch as fellow members of DC Retro Jumpers, Carlyle Prince and Robbin Ebb, twirl two ropes. The group of six women love to teach “anyone from 8 to 80,” Jones said. “You can learn it in less than 10 minutes.” Last year, Jones wrote a children’s book about the sport.

competitions take place in D.C. and across the country, and it’s a varsity sport in New York City schools.

Art imitates life and vice versa Jones got the idea to form a Double Dutch group more than a decade ago,

when she and her co-workers wanted to lose some extra pounds. “I said, ‘Why don’t we jump Double Dutch?’ Everyone said, “No, I’m too old; my knees are bad; I couldn’t possibly” — See DOUBLE DUTCH, page 17

Alexandria’s town crier loves his lifetime appointment; plus, Scott Turow’s latest book, and Bob Levey on the power of the blues page 29 FITNESS & HEALTH 4 k New hope for prostate cancer k Try out virtual reality for science LIVING BOLDLY k Newsletter for D.C. seniors

LAW & MONEY 21 k 9 money numbers to know k Why convert your IRA to Roth?

Schedule a virtual appointment or an in-person tour to discover what Vinson Hall Retirement Community has to offer, and check our website for upcoming events.

LEISURE & TRAVEL k Yosemite’s wow factor k Virginia’s Eastern Shore

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Guest columnist While our publisher is on a brief sabbatiTragically, vulnerable nursing home resical, in lieu of our regular “From the Pub- dents suffered the most. While, overall, lisher” column we will be havabout 1 percent of those diaging guest writers. This month’s nosed with coronavirus died, guest column is written by about one of every six nursing Howard Gleckman, a senior home residents who caught fellow at The Urban Institute the virus passed away. and president of the Jewish And keep in mind that these Council for the Aging of death rates represented only Greater Washington. He is the those who died directly from author of Caring for Our Parthe disease. Many more likely ents. succumbed to loneliness and We are beginning to see depression that were directly what may be the end of the LESSONS caused by the COVID-19 lockworst pandemic in a century. LEARNED downs in facilities and by selfMany of us are visiting By Howard Gleckman isolation of those living in the friends again. We are seeing community. children and grandchildren — and parents What can we do to make sure this never and grandparents — for the first time in happens again? Here are a few possible somore than a year. lutions: But the scars remain. COVID-19 has illuBuild a support system for as many minated the deep flaws in the way we care older adults as possible to live at home. for older adults. The question now is: How Not everyone will be able to stay at home will we respond to these painful lessons? as they age, but many can. In Maryland, 87 percent of those who I’ve estimated that as many as 20 perdied from COVID-19 were age 60 or older. cent of those living in nursing homes have More than half were 80-plus. It was the no clinical need for skilled nursing care. same story in Virginia, where 90 percent They are there because that is where Medof those who died from COVID-19 were icaid pays and because they lack those over 60. supports for remaining home.

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Congress has increased the federal contribution to Medicaid’s home-based care program for frail older adults and younger people with disabilities by nearly $12 billion for the next year. And the Biden Administration wants to raise the federal payment by another $400 billion over eight years. These dramatic increases promise to make Medicaid home care far more robust. But individual states will decide how to spend the money. And they have varied widely in how they use Medicaid longterm care dollars. For instance, Maryland covers about 44,000 people in its home-based Medicaid program, while Virginia covers about 51,000. Maryland spends an average of about $44,000 annually on each enrollee while Virginia spends about $34,000. However, Maryland focuses two-thirds of its spending on people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Virginia, by contrast, spends four-fifths of its Medicaid home care dollars on seniors and other adults with physical disabilities. And boosting Medicaid will help only some frail older adults. Many seniors will never be poor enough to qualify for Medicaid yet cannot afford the staggering costs of long-term care. For example, in Maryland and Northern Virginia, home care aides cost $25 or more an hour, or at least $100 a day for a four-hour shift.

For those families, we need to build a robust infrastructure of care, including more home-delivered meals, transportation, adult day care, case management services, and caregiver training and respite care. Without those services, many people will have no choice but to move to a facility. For those who do live in nursing homes and other long-term care facilities, we must vastly improve infection control. Keep in mind that COVID-19 was not the first deadly virus to rage through senior communities. Every year, thousands of residents die from seasonal flu. Staff need to be better trained and better paid. They need masks, gloves, and other personal protection equipment. They need access to rapid and accurate testing, and they need to be encouraged to be vaccinated. Finally, there is a growing body of evidence that under-staffed facilities were more likely to suffer outbreaks of COVID19. Thus, we need to increase staffing levels and reduce turnover. All of this will cost money and will require state and local governments to give priority to the needs of older adults. [The Beacon encourages readers to contact their elected representatives via phone, letter and/or email and express their views on this matter. Politicians don’t typically receive a lot of correspondence on current issues from voters. Your contact will have an effect.]

Letters to the editor Readers are encouraged to share their opinion on any matter addressed in the Beacon as well as on political and social issues of the day. Mail your Letter to the Editor to The Beacon, P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915, or email to info@thebeaconnewspapers.com. Please include your name, address and telephone number for verification. Dear Editor: I enjoyed Bob Levey’s June column “Remember when clothes made the man?” Clothes also made the woman! But now, after many years of dressing in business attire, I feel I have lost my identity. The mode of attire where I now live seems to be slacks, jeans, leggings, sneakers and casual shirts. My dresses, suits, skirts and silk blouses remain in the closet. Will I be stared at if I wear shoes that are not sneakers? Will I dare to wear them and risk becoming known as the “weirdo” in strange clothes? Naomi Dornfeld Platt Silver Spring, MD Dear Editor: I want to applaud Bob Levey’s column in the May Beacon. How refreshing to hear him speak out on the necessity of taxation and his satisfaction as a citizen in paying his just due to our greater society! The friend he describes is all too typical — bemoaning payment of his taxes and lambasting the government for daring to infringe on his personal wealth. It reminds me of the story of the libertarian who opposed all government interference in his

life until his house was burning down. Thank you, Mr. Levey, for reminding us of “the common good” and the obligation each of us has to pay our fair share for our collective well-being, as well as for the many benefits we derive each day in government services. John Bayerl Derwood, MD Dear Editor: I am a faithful reader of your newspaper and appreciate it very much. Several years ago, I returned home to the U.S. after living and working as an international teacher for 40-plus years. We had a very hard time adjusting to living back in the U.S. We also had just recently retired, and this is where I found your newspaper so invaluable. It was very informative and helpful in our readjustment. I also find the articles inspirational at times, as was the case with the latest monthly column from the publisher, Mr. Rosenthal. He talked about how he is taking a break to pursue his music. He said he didn’t know where it would lead, but See LETTERS TO EDITOR, page 33

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Health Fitness &

WHOLE GRAIN MYTHS Did you know no wheat is genetically modified? Learn about other myths inside POWER OF THE PILL Studies show that taking aspirin daily may reduce risk of colorectal cancer BRAVE NEW WORLD An NIH study is asking for feedback after volunteers try virtual reality tech KIDNEYS DO MORE THAN YOU THINK Keep your kidneys healthy by eating less meat, salt and processed food

Radiation drugs track and kill tumor cells By Carla K. Johnson Doctors are reporting improved survival in men with advanced prostate cancer from an experimental drug that delivers radiation directly to tumor cells. Few such drugs are approved now, but the approach may become a new way to

treat patients with other hard-to-reach or inoperable cancers. The study tested an emerging class of medicine called radiopharmaceuticals, drugs that deliver radiation directly to cancer cells. The drug in this case is a molecule that contains two parts: a tracker and

a cancer-killing payload. Trillions of these molecules hunt down cancer cells, latching onto protein receptors on the cell membrane. The payload emits radiation, which hits the tumor cells within its range. “You can treat tumors that you cannot

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see. Anywhere the drug can go, the drug can reach tumor cells,” said Dr. Frank Lin, who had no role in the study but heads a division at the National Cancer Institute that helps develop such medicine. Results were released in June by the American Society of Clinical Oncology ahead of its annual meeting. The study was funded by Novartis, the drug’s maker, which plans to seek approvals in the United States and Europe later this year.

Drug targets advanced cancer When cancer is confined to the prostate, radiation can be beamed onto the body or implanted in pellets. But those methods don’t work well in more advanced prostate cancer. About 43,000 men in the United States each year are diagnosed with prostate cancer that has spread and is no longer responding to hormone-blocking treatment. The study tested a new way to get radiation treatment to such patients. It involved 831 men with advanced prostate cancer. Two-thirds were given the radiation drug and the rest served as a comparison group. Patients got the drug through an IV every six weeks, up to six times. After about two years, those who received the drug did better, on average. The cancer was kept at bay for nearly nine months compared to about three months for the others. Survival was better too — about 15 months versus 11 months. The gain may not seem like much, but “these patients don’t have many options,” said ASCO president Dr. Lori Pierce, a cancer radiation specialist at the University of Michigan. Radioactivity can reduce blood cell production, which can lead to anemia and clotting problems for patients. In the study, 53% of the patients had serious side effects compared to 38% of patients in the comparison group. Both groups were allowed to get other treatments.

Similar approach may fight other cancers The results pave the way for government approval and will boost interest in radiation drugs, Lin said. Others already in use include Novartis’ See RADIATION DRUGS, page 7

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U.S. health regulators warned surgeons in June to stop implanting a heart pump made by Medtronic due to power failures recently tied to cases of stroke and more than a dozen deaths. Medtronic said it would stop selling its Heartware assist device, which is intended to boost blood circulation in patients with heart failure. Recent company data showed the device can unexpectedly stop working and sometimes fail to restart, the Food and

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U.S. regulators have approved the first medicine for patients with the most common type of lung cancer whose tumors have a genetic mutation long considered untreatable with drugs. The Food and Drug Administration in May said it has approved Amgen’s drug Lumakras to treat non-small cell lung cancer with the mutation in patients who have worsened after initial treatment with at least one other drug. Each year, about 13,000 U.S. patients are diagnosed with this cancer and mutation. This is the first targeted therapy for tumors with a so-called KRAS mutation, the FDA noted. This type of mutation occurs in genes that help regulate cell growth and division. The mutation is involved in many cancer types. “Today’s approval represents a significant step toward a future where more patients will have a personalized treatment approach,” Dr. Richard Pazdur, director of the FDA’s Oncology Center of Excellence, said in a statement. Amgen said Lumakras, also known as sotorasib, will cost $17,900 per month, though most patients will pay less, depending on health insurance and other factors. Lung cancer is the most common cancer type and is the leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S. The agency also approved diagnostic tests from two companies that can determine if patients have the specific mutation,

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known as KRAS G12C, targeted by the drug. Amgen and other drugmakers are working to develop several medicines designed to attack tumors with KRAS mutations. “KRAS has challenged cancer researchers for more than 40 years,” Dr. David M. Reese, Amgen’s head of research and development, said in a statement. The FDA approved the drug on an accelerated schedule, based only on early study results, because of its potential and the lack of options for these patients. It is requiring further testing to confirm the drug’s benefit. In a study including 124 patients, 36% had their tumors shrink or disappear. Improvements lasted for six months or longer for nearly 60% of those who benefited. Common side effects included diarrhea, joint and muscle pain, fatigue and liver damage. The FDA said the drug should be discontinued if patients develop liver damage or a type of lung disease. —AP

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Health shorts From page 5 Drug Administration said. The company said it hasn’t been able to pinpoint the root cause in every case. Surgeons can use implants from other manufacturers, the FDA said in a memo to physicians. About 4,000 people worldwide currently have the Medtronic device, roughly half of them in the U.S. For those patients, the agency said U.S. doctors should contact the company for the latest guidance on managing the device, which includes managing blood pressure. The FDA said Medtronic halted sales after reviewing 100 reports of power failures with the device, which led to 14 patient deaths and 13 patients having it removed.

The company previously issued recalls on some Heartware devices and components used when implanting it. In December, the company warned about power failures or delayed restarts with three lots. The company said patients should not automatically have the device removed. Taking out recalled heart implants has to be carefully weighed against the potential risks of surgery. The company said it is preparing a guide for managing patients “who may require support for many years.” —AP

FDA approves obesity drug that cut weight by 15% Regulators in June said a new version of

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a popular diabetes medicine could be sold as a weight-loss drug in the U.S. The Food and Drug Administration approved Wegovy, a higher-dose version of Novo Nordisk’s diabetes drug semaglutide, for long-term weight management. In company-funded studies, participants taking Wegovy had average weight loss of 15%, about 34 pounds (15.3 kilograms). Participants lost weight steadily for 14 months before plateauing. In a comparison group getting dummy shots, the average weight loss was about 2.5%, or just under 6 pounds. “With existing drugs, you’re going to get maybe 5% to 10% weight reduction, sometimes not even that,” said Dr. Harold Bays, medical director of the Louisville Metabolic and Atherosclerosis Research Center. Bays, who is also the Obesity Medicine Association’s chief science officer, helped run studies of the drug. In the U.S., more than 100 million adults — about 1 in 3 — are obese. Dropping even 5% of one’s weight can bring health benefits, such as improved energy, blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol levels, but that amount often doesn’t satisfy patients who are focused on weight loss, Bays said. Bays said Wegovy appears far safer than earlier obesity drugs that “have gone down in flames” over safety problems. Wegovy’s side effects were gastrointestinal

problems, including nausea, diarrhea and vomiting. Those usually subsided, but led about 5% of study participants to stop taking it. Wegovy (pronounced wee-GOH’-vee) is a synthesized version of a gut hormone that curbs appetite. Patients inject it weekly under their skin. Like other weight-loss drugs, it’s to be used along with exercise, a healthy diet and other steps like keeping a food diary. The Danish company hasn’t disclosed Wegovy’s price but said it will be similar to the price of its Saxenda, a weight-loss drug injected daily that now typically costs more than $1,300 per month without insurance. Phylander Pannell, 49, of Largo, Maryland, joined a patient study after cycles of losing and then regaining weight. She said she received Wegovy, worked out several times a week and lost 65 pounds over 16 months. “It helped curb my appetite, and it helped me feel full faster,” Parnell said. “It got me on the right path.” Shortly after she finished the study and stopped receiving Wegovy, she regained about half the weight. She’s since lost much of that, started exercise classes and bought home exercise equipment. She’s considering going back on Wegovy after it’s approved. Novo Nordisk also is developing a pill version. —AP

VOICE LIFELINE AND BROADBAND LIFELINE Did you know? You may qualify for assistance in paying your home phone or Fios Internet bill. Discounts for basic telephone or Broadband Lifeline service are available to eligible District of Columbia low-income residents. Verizon Washington, DC Inc. offers the following Lifeline Plans as an Eligible Telecommunications Carrier: Economy II Service*: $3.00 per month for unlimited local calling. Value-added services are not included (e.g., Call Waiting, Caller ID). No connection charges apply. Also, customers will not be charged for the federal subscriber line charge. Economy II customers who are 65 years of age or older can have this service at a further reduced rate of $1.00 per month. Customers will receive a one-time discount on the cost of installing phone service and toll blocking is available at no charge. Broadband Lifeline: Verizon Washington, DC Inc. also offers a monthly Lifeline discount to qualiﬁed customers who subscribe to Fios Internet service. Eligible customers will receive a $9.25 monthly discount. * Full terms and rates for these services, including terms of eligibility, are as set forth in federal regulations and in Verizon’s tariffs on ﬁle with the Public Service Commission of the District of Columbia. All rates, terms and conditions included in this notice are subject to change and are current at the time of printing.

Eligibility: District residents who have been certiﬁed as eligible may apply for the Economy II program or Broadband Lifeline service for customers who subscribe to Fios Internet. Households in which one or more individuals are receiving beneﬁts from one of the following public assistance programs or have an annual income that is 135% or below the Federal Poverty Guideline may be eligible. ✓ Supplemental Nutrition Assistance (SNAP) ✓ Medicaid ✓ Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

✓ Veteran’s Pension Beneﬁt ✓ Veteran’s Survivors Pension Beneﬁt ✓ Federal Public Housing Assistance (Section 8)

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✓ No separate Lifeline discount on cellular or wireless phone service ✓ Business lines are not eligible ✓ Phone number must match eligible participant ✓ Must be a current Verizon customer or establish new service with Verizon

An Application for Verizon Voice Lifeline or Broadband Lifeline service can be obtained by contacting Verizon at www.verizon.com/lifeline or by phone at 1 800 VERIZON. To find out more information, you may also call the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC), which administers Voice Lifeline and Broadband Lifeline for the FCC, by calling (800) 234-9473 or by accessing its website at www.LifelineSupport.org. Economy II and Broadband Lifeline are Lifeline supported services. Voice Lifeline and Broadband Lifeline are government assistance programs. Only eligible consumers may enroll. You may qualify for Voice Lifeline or Broadband Lifeline service if you can show proof that you participate in certain government assistance programs or your annual income (gross and from all sources) is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guideline. If you qualify based on income, you will be required to provide income verification. Proof of participation in a government assistance program requires your current or prior year’s statement of benefits from a qualifying state or federal program; a notice letter or other official document indicating your participation in such a program; and/or another program participation document (for example, benefit card). Proof of income requires your prior year’s state or federal tax return; current income statement from an employer or paycheck stub; a statement of Social Security, Veterans Administration, retirement, pension, or Unemployment or Workmen’s Compensation benefits; a federal notice letter of participation in General Assistance; a divorce decree; a child support award; and/or another official document containing income information. At least three months of data is necessary when showing proof of income. In addition, the Lifeline program is limited to one discount per household, consisting of either wireline, wireless or broadband (internet) service. You are required to certify and agree that no other member of the household is receiving Voice Lifeline or Broadband Lifeline service from Verizon or another communications provider. Voice Lifeline and Broadband Lifeline services are non-transferable benefits. Voice Lifeline customers may not subscribe to certain other services, including other local telephone service. Consumers who willfully make false statements in order to obtain the Lifeline benefit can be punished by fine or imprisonment, or can be barred from the program.

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Seeds are packed with protein, minerals By Matthew Kadey There is an old saying that “great things come in small packages.” When it comes to edible seeds, don’t let their diminutive size fool you: “In many cases, the nutritional make-up of seeds rivals that of nuts,” said Julie Andrews, MS, RDN, The Gourmet RD. “Each seed has a unique nutrition profile, but they’re all similar in the sense that they’re very nutritious.” So, it’s a shame that nuts get the lion’s share of research dollars and attention in our kitchens. Not only are pumpkin, sesame and other seeds dense in minerals, healthy fats, antioxidants and other nutritional goodies, they are also delicious and undeniably versatile in the kitchen. Here are the best ones to sprinkle into your diet:

of calcium, with a tablespoon providing about 10% of the daily need. “Bones store calcium, and it’s an essential mineral for maintaining bone mass,” Andrews said. Sesame seeds also supply good amounts of copper, a mineral needed for proper energy production and neurotransmitter synthesis. Sesame seeds with the husk intact are referred to as unhulled and are golden in color, while those with the husk removed are considered hulled and are off-white. Andrews said the unhulled variety have a bit more calcium. There is also a black variety of unhulled sesame seed, which has a deeper flavor and more crunch as well as higher antioxidant levels. When sesame seeds are blended into a creamy spread you get trendy tahini.

Strengthen bones with sesame seeds

Tame hunger with chia seeds

You might be surprised to learn that sesame seeds are a good non-dairy source

Radiation drugs From page 4 Lutathera for a rare type of cancer of the stomach and gut. And Bayer’s Xofigo is approved for men whose prostate cancer has spread to the bone but not elsewhere. Xofigo targets areas where the body is trying to repair bone loss from tumor damage, but it isn’t directly aimed at prostate cancer cells wherever they may be in the body. Since the experimental drug targets tumor cells, “that would be a first for prostate cancer,” Lin said. In the coming decade, such drugs “will be a major thrust of cancer research,” said Dr. Charles Kunos, who worked on stan-

What tiny chia seeds lack in size they make up for with impressive amounts of soluble fiber. When the soluble fiber in chia dards for radiopharmaceutical research at the National Cancer Institute before leaving to join University of Kentucky’s Markey Cancer Center. “It will be the next big wave of therapeutic development.” “There’s great potential” with drugs being tested for melanoma and breast, pancreatic and other cancers, said Dr. Mary-Ellen Taplin of Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston, who had no role in the study but reviewed the data. As for prostate cancer, “it opens up a range of future strategies,” including at earlier stages of disease and alongside other treatments, said study leader Dr. Michael Morris of Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York. —AP

mixes with fluids in your stomach, it turns gel-like, which slows down food digestion to create a sense of fullness. So, chia could be a way to help put the brakes on overeating.

“Soluble fiber also slows the absorption of sugar to help better regulate blood See SEEDS, page 9

BEACON BITS

Ongoing

DONATE BLOOD

The American Red Cross is experiencing a severe blood shortage. Donors of all blood types, especially type O and those giving platelets, are urged to make an appointment to give as soon as possible to prevent delays to critical patient care. To make an appointment, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (733-2767).

To July 28

TECHY TUESDAYS

Learn how to use your devices during a drop-in session every Tues. through July 28 at 10:30 a.m. at the MLK Jr. Memorial Library. Arrive a half hour early to sign in for a seat at one of the library’s 12 computers; seats are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. For information, call (202) 727-0321.

July 20

GENEALOGICAL RESEARCH

Are you curious to know more about your family tree? Would you like to identify distant ancestors from the past several hundred years? Learn how to use DNA tools like GEDMatch to reconstruct the genomes of “distant” ancestors in this virtual workshop hosted by the Mount Vernon Genealogical Society. The Zoom event takes place Tues., July 20 from 1 to 3 p.m. For more information, visit bit.ly/GEDMatch or email contact-us@mvgenealogy.org.

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J U L Y 2 0 2 1 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Breathe easier with these asthma products If you’ve ever had your bronchial tube The symptoms vary from day to day, go into a spasm, you know how scary it is! sometimes hour to hour, but always inA bronchospasm occurs clude wheezing, coughing, when the breathing airways shortness of breath, exercise suddenly contract, making it intolerance and chest pain. hard to breathe and causing Acid reflux is also quite comthat high-pitched, whistling mon. sound called wheezing. If this There are many reasons for goes on chronically, it is a person to have a problem termed bronchial asthma, or breathing. One lesser-known just asthma. trigger includes perfume or About 25 million Americologne. Another is pet fur, escans have asthma, and at- DEAR pecially cat saliva. tacks may be mild and short- PHARMACIST There is also the trigger of lived or serious. Today’s arti- By Suzy Cohen tropomyosin, which comes cle is for those of you who from cockroaches. When I wish to breathe easier and are seeking nat- lived down South, it was the headache of ural options to use in conjunction with every Florida resident! your medication. And finally, there’s something called “car-

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diac asthma” which stems from the heart. If you’d like to read a more comprehensive version of this article with more details and more solutions, please visit my website, suzycohen.com, where you can sign up for my weekly newsletter. I’ll email the longer article it to you. In the meantime, here are some natural remedies and devices to help you breathe with more comfort:

Vitamin D-rich foods Eating more foods with vitamin D such as milk and eggs can help. Getting the “sunshine vitamin” is useful too, because your body activates the D into a hormone that is used for immune function.

Black Seed Oil This is a dietary supplement that fights inflammation and is especially useful for the lungs. It contains many active compounds such as “thymoquinone,” which has been studied specifically for breathing.

The Breather The Breather, a “natural breathing

lung recover y exercise trainer,” is a small plastic device that you hold in your hand. It’s designed to improve the flow of oxygen. It’s just an exerciser; it’s not intended or useful during an asthma attack. It improves lung capacity and is sold online.

AirPhysio This “natural breathing lung expansion and mucus removal device” is helpful to clear the airways and minimize mucus, which can be helpful with many respiratory conditions such as asthma, atelectasis, COPD, emphysema, even cystic fibrosis. Please seek medical attention and proper treatment if you have breathing difficulties. The options above are for your consideration, and not intended to treat an asthma attack. This information is opinion only. It is not intended to treat, cure or diagnose your condition. Consult with your doctor before using any new drug or supplement. Suzy Cohen is a registered pharmacist and author of The 24-Hour Pharmacist and Real Solutions from Head to Toe.

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WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — J U L Y 2 0 2 1

Seeds From page 7 sugar levels,” Andrews said. Chia seeds also supply a bounty of heart-healthy omega-3 fat and bone-benefiting phosphorus. Chia is available in both black and white hues, but important nutritional differences have not been shown.

Drop blood pressure with pumpkin seeds Often called pepitas when they’re hulled to reveal their green interiors, crunchy pumpkin seeds are a great way to boost your intake of magnesium, an often underconsumed nutrient linked to improved blood pressure numbers, which may translate into a lower risk for cardiovascular events like stroke. Magnesium may increase the production of nitric oxide — a signaling molecule that relaxes blood vessels. The seeds are also a reliable source of vitamin K, which we need to make proteins involved in blood clotting and bone metabolism. As with other seeds and nuts, select unsalted pumpkin seeds to keep your sodium intake in check.

part of maintaining fat-burning metabolism and preventing injuries as we age. Unlike many plant foods, the protein contained within hemp is considered “complete,” in that it provides all the essential amino acids needed for bodily functions like musclebuilding. The nutritional wealth of hemp seeds includes magnesium, omega fatty acids and iron to help keep you feeling energized. It’s important to note that hemp seeds contain virtually none of the psychoactive compound THC found in marijuana.

Fortify heart health with flax Inexpensive yet highly nutritious flaxseed is a leading source of alphalinolenic acid (ALA), an omega-3 fat considered to be important for heart health. “A small amount of ALA is converted into the fats EPA and DHA, which have a host of benefits, such as improved cardiovascular and brain health,” Andrews explained. Like chia, flax is a good source of soluble fiber, which confers more heart protection by helping to keep cholesterol numbers out of the danger zone. Flaxseeds are best consumed ground because the hard shell of the whole seed resists digestion.

Boost brain power with The nutty-tasting seeds or “hearts” from sunflower seeds

Build muscle with hemp seeds

the hemp plant are lauded for their plantbased protein — about 10 grams in a three tablespoon serving — to aid in strengthening and building lean body mass, a key

Sunflower seeds are a stand-out source of vitamin E. Research suggests higher intakes of this fat-soluble vitamin with antioxidant efficacy can help delay aspects of cognitive de-

cline like memory loss associated with aging. More good news: vitamin E from food sources may help lessen the risk for certain cancers like colon, breast and prostate. Both unshelled and shelled sunflower seeds are available with the latter being a more convenient way to get them into your diet.

Seeding your diet To incorporate seeds into your diet, Andrews recommends sprinkling them on salads, roasted vegetables, soups, oatmeal and yogurt bowls, or mixing into smooth-

ies, granola and baked goods like muffins. “They can also be ground up and used as a coating for fish,” she said. Ground flax can be used as a binder in veggie burgers and meatballs. And the gel-forming nature of chia seeds can be used to make jams and puddings. Reprinted with permission from Environmental Nutrition, a monthly publication of Belvoir Media Group, LLC, 1-800-8295384, EnvironmentalNutrition.com. © 2021 Belvoir Media Group. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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July 21

GOOGLE TRAINING

Want to learn more about Google’s free tools (docs, sheets, slides and photos)? Senior Planet Montgomery can show you the ropes in a free training session via Zoom. “All About Google Workspace” will take place on Wed., July 21, from 3 to 4 p.m. No registration required. For Zoom login info, visit bit.ly/googlejuly21.

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J U L Y 2 0 2 1 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Setting the record straight on whole grains By Densie Webb Whole grains are recommended, with few exceptions, to be included as part of a healthful diet. The latest 2020-2025 U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend three servings a day of whole grains and point to whole grain amaranth, barley, brown rice, buckwheat, bulgur, millet, oats, popcorn, quinoa, dark rye, wholegrain cornmeal, whole wheat bread, whole wheat chapati, whole grain cereals and crackers and wild rice as important, nutrient-dense sources of whole grains. Despite these recommendations and overwhelming evidence that including whole grains in your diet can be beneficial to your health, 98% of Americans fail to meet the three-servings-a-day recommendation. That shortfall may be partly due to several myths about whole grains that continue to circulate. Here, Environmental Nutrition sets the

whole-grain record straight. Myth 1: Whole grains cause inflammation in the body. We’re not sure where this one started, but it’s simply not true. If anything, the natural phytochemicals found in whole grains act as antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents. Myth 2: Whole grains can aggravate or cause diverticulitis. The truth: Doctors used to advise steering clear of whole grains and seeds if you’ve been diagnosed with diverticulosis — small, bulging pouches called diverticula that develop in your digestive tract. When one or more of these pouches become inflamed or infected, the condition is called diverticulitis. A high-fiber diet that includes whole grains can actually help decrease pressure in the colon, preventing flare-ups in these pouches. Myth 3: Whole grains cause bloat-

ing. This is partially true. The myth is that you shouldn’t eat whole grains because they always cause bloating. Abruptly increasing the amount of fiber you eat from any source can indeed cause gas and bloating. If you currently eat a lowfiber diet and want to increase the amount of whole grains in your diet, increase gradually so your digestive system has time to adjust. Myth 4: Only whole grains, not processed grains, provide vitamins. The facts behind this myth might surprise you. While processed grains don’t contain the fiber of whole grains, processed breads are fortified with several vitamins and iron and may actually contain more than whole grains, which are not fortified. Myth 5: Allergic reactions to whole grains are common. The truth: Actual allergies to whole grains that result in an immune response are uncommon.

ENTERPRISE RESIDENTIAL MOST COMMUNITIES ARE 62 AND BETTER ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY

BALTIMORE COUNTY (CONT.)

The Greens at Hammonds Lane: 410-636-1141 Park View at Furnace Branch: 410-761-4150 Park View at Severna Park: 410-544-3411

Park View at Rosedale: 410-866-1886 Park View at Taylor: 410-663-0363 Park View at Towson: 410-828-7185 Park View at Woodlawn: 410-281-1120

BALTIMORE CITY Ednor Apartments I: 410-243-0180 Ednor Apartments II: 410-243-4301 The Greens at Irvington Mews: 410-644-4487 Park Heights Place: 410-578-3445 Park View at Ashland Terrace: 410-276-6440 Park View at Coldspring: 410-542-4400

BALTIMORE COUNTY Cove Point Apartments I: 410-288-2344 Cove Point Apartments II: 410-288-1660 Evergreen Senior Apartments: 410-780-4888 The Greens at English Consul: 410-789-3000 The Greens at Liberty Road: 410-655-1100 The Greens at Logan Field: 410-288-2000 The Greens at Rolling Road: 410-744-9988 Park View at Catonsville: 410-719-9464 Park View at Dundalk: 410-288-5483 • 55 & Better Park View at Fullerton: 410-663-0665 Park View at Miramar Landing: 410-391-8375 Park View at Randallstown: 410-655-5673

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

People with celiac disease can become sick after eating wheat due to the gluten it contains. Celiac disease affects only about one to 2% of the population. Some people may have gluten-sensitivity that causes rumbling down below, but it’s not an allergic reaction. Myth 6: Only organic, non-GMO whole grains are healthy. The truth: Well, currently there is no genetically modified wheat commercialized anywhere in the world. Putting non-GMO on a product containing wheat is akin to putting a “cholesterol-free” label on a peach — never had it in the first place. So, yes organic wheat is GMO free, but so is non-organic wheat. And if you’re choosing organic wheat to avoid gluten, don’t. All wheat contains gluten, organic or not. Myth 7: Whole grains are loaded with pesticides. The truth: Glyphosate is a chemical that sometimes is used to control the timing of wheat harvests, but that practice is not common in the U.S. [Ed. Note: According to the National Wheat Foundation, “Glyphosate use is limited in the wheat industry, if even used at all in some wheat fields. In fact, for 2016, it was applied to 33% of wheat acres in the U.S.”] There is no credible evidence that glyphosate is the cause of digestive problems. Myth 8: “Multigrain” or “contains whole grains” on the label is an indication that the product is as high in fiber as a product that says “whole grain” on the label. The truth: Breads, muffins, rice mixes, and the like that are labeled as “multigrain” may sound like high fiber, but processed white flour is also a grain.

HARFORD COUNTY

See WHOLE GRAIN, page 12

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

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HOWARD COUNTY

July 29

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

RETIRE ON LESS Financial journalist

Harriet Edelson will hold a book signing at Friendship Heights Village Center to discuss her new book, 12

Ways to Retire on Less. This event takes place Tues., July 20 from 7 to

PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY

8 p.m. For more information, call

Park View at Bladensburg: 301-699-9785 • 55 & Better Park View at Laurel: 301-490-1526 Park View at Laurel II: 301-490-9730

(301) 656-2797.

July 22

IMPROVE YOUR CREDIT SCORE Learn the importance

of a good credit score and how to

Call the community of interest to you to inquire about eligibility requirements and to arrange a personal tour.

EnterpriseResidential.org

improve yours in this virtual workshop hosted by the Alexandria Library. The event takes place Thurs., July 22 from 7 to 8 p.m. For more information and to register,

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visit bit.ly/CreditScoreAL.

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WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — J U L Y 2 0 2 1

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Illness-related fatigue: More than just tired By Jennifer Crystal “Tired” is a nebulous word that covers a broad spectrum of levels of fatigue. A crucial distinction, however, is between regular fatigue and illness-related fatigue. Everyday fatigue that is not illness-related starts with a baseline of health. You may feel sleepy, you may in fact be sleepdeprived, or your body and mind may be worn out from long hours, exertion, or unrelenting stress — but you don’t feel sick. Your muscles and joints don’t ache. You are capable of getting out of bed and powering through the day, even if you don’t want to. A cup of coffee or a nap might perk you up. This type of fatigue is usually related to external factors: lack of sleep, stress, an extra-hard workout. But internally, your body is working well: your glands and organs are operating properly; infection is

Whole grain From page 10 The only way to know if a grain product is made with whole grains is to read the label carefully. If it says “100% whole grains,” then it is. If it says “multigrain” or “contains whole grains,” check the label for the amount of whole grains. You should aim for 48 grams of whole grains a day.

When I was acutely ill with persistent Lyme disease, babesiosis, and ehrlichiosis (all tick-borne illnesses), as well as chronic Epstein-Barr virus, a good night’s sleep did nothing. Naps were staples of my day that helped me survive but didn’t improve my energy. Drinking a cup of coffee was akin to treating an ear infection with candy. No matter how much I rested, my exhaustion persisted. I felt like I had the flu, except it lasted for years. My whole body ached. I suffered migraine headaches. I had hallucinogenic nightmares. Exercise was out of the question; at times, I was literally too tired to

walk up a flight of stairs or sit at the dinner table. I couldn’t concentrate, unable to read or watch TV. Sometimes I was too tired to talk. There was no pushing through this level of fatigue, because it was caused by illnesses that were ravaging my body. Only when they were adequately treated did I get my energy back. For me, the root causes were bacterial infections (Lyme, ehrlichiosis), a parasite (babesiosis) and a virus (Epstein-Barr). Profound fatigue may also result from a host of other diseases and conditions, including chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia and multiple sclerosis. When determining whether your tiredness is everyday fatigue or illness-related, consider the following questions: —Do you feel worn out, or do you feel sick?

—Have you experienced this before, or does it feel more extreme or unrelenting? —When you lessen the load of external factors (work, stress, long days) does the fatigue improve, or does it persist? —Do you feel refreshed after a good night’s sleep or a nap? —Can you go about your day, or is it impossible to get out of bed? —Has the fatigue persisted longer than you would expect? —Are you experiencing other symptoms that might point to illness? The bottom line: No one knows your body better than you do. If you are not responding to regular fatigue remedies, your fatigue has persisted over time, you have other symptoms or you just don’t feel right, it’s probably time to call your doctor. © 2021 Harvard University. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Myth 9: Whole grains contain “anti-nutrients” that are unhealthy. The truth: Anti-nutrients such as phytate, lectins and oxalates, which are found naturally in wheat and other plant foods, can block the absorption of nutrients. However, while wheat may contain small amounts of anti-nutrients even after being processed and cooked or baked, the health benefits of including whole grains

in your diet outweigh any potential negative nutritional effects. Myth 10: Ordering “wheat bread” in a restaurant is the same as ordering “whole-grain bread.” The truth: It’s not uncommon when ordering a sandwich at a restaurant to be asked, “White or wheat?” But the question would make sense only if the waiter asks, “White or whole wheat?” Often the bread

may be brown, but that doesn’t mean it’s whole wheat — just that a darker wheat has been used or a coloring has been added that makes it look more healthy. Reprinted with permission from Environmental Nutrition, a monthly publication of Belvoir Media Group, LLC, 1-800-8295384, EnvironmentalNutrition.com. © 2021 Belvoir Media Group. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

not depleting your body of energy; your nervous system may be overtaxed, but it’s not frayed from actual impairment.

Illness-related fatigue has few solutions

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WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — J U L Y 2 0 2 1

Bone density tests assess risk of fractures By Jeremiah Long, M.D. Dear Mayo Clinic: I am a 62-yearold woman who has been fairly healthy most of my life. I try to walk daily and eat right. I’ve never had a fracture or bone health issues. But after my annual physical this year, my doctor suggested a bone density test. Do I really need one and how often? A: A bone density test uses a low dose of X-rays in a quick, noninvasive way to measure the amount of calcium and other minerals in a segment of bone, usually the hips and spine. By identifying decreases in bone mineral density, your health care provider can determine your risk of fractures and diagnose and monitor osteoporosis progression. Most young, healthy people do not need a bone density test. But, as you age, your risk for osteoporosis increases because bone density tends to decrease as people grow older. That is especially true in women. If you are a woman and 65 or older, a bone density test is recommended with a repeat test generally performed two years after the initial test — although this interval may change depending upon any treatments being administered. For women under age 65, bone density tests may be recommended based on risk factors for osteoporosis, such as a family his-

tory of the disease or a history of fractures. For men without fractures, the answer isn’t quite as clear. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force doesn’t recommend routine bone density testing for men. Because men have a higher bone mass and lose bone more slowly than women, they’re at a lower risk of fracture. However, up to 1 in 4 men over 50 will break a bone due to osteoporosis. Groups such as the National Osteoporosis Foundation still recommend testing for men 70 and older. Men 50 to 69 may consider testing also if they have risk factors for osteoporosis. People over 50 who have broken a bone and people who have lost 1.5 inches of height or more also may need a bone density test to screen for osteoporosis. Another risk factor for osteoporosis is taking certain kinds of drugs that can interfere with the body’s process of rebuilding bone. Examples of these drugs include steroid medications, such as prednisone, and immunosuppressant medications, such as those taken after organ or bone marrow transplants. Bone density test results are reported in a measurement known as a “T-score.” A Tscore of minus 1 or higher is normal. A score of minus 2.5 or lower is osteoporosis. The range between normal and osteo-

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Aug. 3

MAKE BETTER HEALTHCARE DECISIONS Award-winning local journalist and investigator Jim McElhatton

shares with consumers how to make more informed healthcare decisions in this virtual seminar that takes place Tues., Aug. 3 from 3 to 4 p.m. Register by visiting bit.ly/HealthCareAL to receive the Zoom link. Contact Caroline at cpak@alexlibraryva.org if you have questions or need help with set up.

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porosis is considered osteopenia, a condition where bone density is below the normal range and puts a person at higher risk for developing osteoporosis. Osteopenia also raises the risk for breaking a bone.

Exercise, avoid tobacco and alcohol There are things you can do to help keep your bones healthy as you get older. Exercise is important. Be sure to include a combination of weight-bearing exercises, such as walking, jogging, running or stair climbing. Eat a healthy diet, making sure to get the right amounts of calcium and vitamin D. And if you smoke, stop. Research suggests that tobacco use contributes to weak bones.

Similarly, regularly having more than two alcoholic drinks a day raises your risk of osteoporosis, possibly because alcohol can interfere with the body’s ability to absorb calcium. Therefore, limit the amount of alcohol you drink. Talk to your health care provider about getting a bone density test and discuss any concerns you have about your bone health. Taking steps now can help ensure good bone health in the future. Mayo Clinic Q & A is an educational resource and doesn’t replace regular medical care. Email a question to MayoClinicQ&A@mayo.edu or visit mayoclinic.org. © 2021 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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What can I take to prevent colorectal cancer? By Andrew Chan, M.D. Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States. There is compelling evidence that screening to detect CRC early to find and remove precancerous polyps can reduce CRC mortality. However, screening has associated harms, including procedural complications, and inherent limitations. For example, colonoscopy, the most common screening tool in the U.S., is less effective in preventing cancers of the right, or ascending side, of the colon compared with cancers of the left, or descending, side of the colon. Moreover, only 60% of U.S. adults recommended for screening actually follow through. Even under the best circumstances, screening is resource-intensive, requiring time, equipment, and a trained doctor to perform the procedure, and can-

not be widely implemented in many parts of the world. Thus, alternatives to screening to effectively prevent CRC are needed.

Alternatives to screening Adherence to healthy lifestyle habits, including maintaining a healthy body weight, keeping physically active, and abstaining from tobacco, can reduce risk of CRC in all individuals. These habits also help prevent other chronic health conditions. In addition to lifestyle, chemoprevention — the use of agents to inhibit, delay, or intercept and reverse cancer formation — also holds significant promise. The ideal chemopreventive agent, or combination of agents, requires the benefits to outweigh the risks, especially since effective prevention likely requires long-term use.

Many different agents have been proposed and studied over the last several decades.

Study: Aspirin may help prevent colorectal cancer In an article published in the journal Gut, researchers performed a systematic review, analyzing data from 80 meta-analyses or systematic reviews of interventional and observational studies published between 1980 and 2019, examining use of medications, vitamins, supplements, and dietary factors for prevention of CRC in people of average risk. The authors found that regular use of aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve), magnesium, and folate is associated with decreased risk of CRC. In addition, high consumption of fiber, fruits and vegetables, and dairy products

also appears to be associated with reduced risk. In contrast, heavy alcohol intake and high red or processed meat consumption is associated with an increased incidence of CRC. There was no evidence of any protective benefit for tea, coffee, garlic, fish, or soy products. The strongest level of evidence for a protective benefit exists for aspirin, which includes “gold standard” randomized controlled trials showing that regular use of aspirin reduces risk of precancerous adenomatous colon polyps, the precursor to the vast majority of CRC. The level of evidence is low to very low for other protective agents, including NSAIDs, magnesium and folate. The limitations of this review include variation in the included study populations, study designs, dosing of the studies’ agent or agents and duration of exposure, and follow-up time. This reflects the inherent challenges of conducting studies of preventive agents for CRC, which require large numbers of participants and long-term follow-up (it takes several years for normal colon tissue to transform into a polyp and then a CRC).

Benefits and risks of aspirin

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Despite a low level of supporting evidence, efforts to prevent cancer through dietary interventions, such as eating a high-fiber diet and minimizing intake of red meat, are reasonable to recommend broadly, since they are generally not associated with negative consequences. However, interventions that involve taking medications generally require a higher standard of evidence, since they are associated with the potential for adverse effects. Among drugs proposed for chemoprevention of CRC, I believe aspirin has perhaps the strongest level of evidence supporting potential effectiveness, a conclusion shared by the review. The studies included in this systematic review led the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) to recommend lowdose (81 milligrams per day) aspirin for joint prevention of CRC and cardiovascular disease (CVD), for individuals ages 50 to 59 with a 10% 10-year risk for a CVD event. However, the USPSTF cautioned about the potential harms of aspirin, including gastrointestinal bleeding. I generally recommend aspirin use for prevention of CRC only after a detailed discussion of potential risks and benefits, while acknowledging the lack of broader population-based recommendations or conclusive data supporting use in additional age groups or based on other risk factors. © 2021 Harvard University. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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RESOURCES FROM

Volunteering to Drive is an Impactful Way to Serve When it comes to comfort, it is hard to compete with getting a ride from a friend or neighbor. Many organizations in the County help connect volunteer drivers with residents who need a lift. If you are interested in helping to get your fellow County residents where they need to go, check out the website of the Montgomery County Volunteer Center at www. montgomerycountymd.gov/ volunteercenter. Enter the word “driver” in the search box near the top of the page. A helping hand can make a big difference when travelling for groceries or other necessities. Photo courtesy of National Aging and Disability Transportation Center

Getting Around the County May be Easier Than You Think! There are many transportation options available to County residents. Examples range from free/ discounted public buses to escorted transportation. Knowing which option is best for you may require some expertise. Fortunately, Montgomery County Department of Transportation has teamed up with Jewish Council for the Aging (JCA) to provide just that. JCA’s Connect-A-Ride service is available Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. at 301-738-3252. Mobility specialists respond to calls—or return calls as needed—to provide information customized to each individual’s needs. Some residents

need wheelchair accessible transportation, and others need a helping hand. Some residents qualify for programs based on their income, while others do not. Connect-A-Ride can sort out the best option for each person’s unique circumstances. Examples of available programs include: Metro Access, Call-nRide, Same Day Access, volunteer transportation, Medicaid Transportation, and transportation to recreation centers. Call Connect-A-Ride for details, or check out the Transportation Network Directory at www. montgomerycountymd.gov/tnd.

Transportation Network Directory

www.montgomerycountymd. gov/tnd. This guide is a comprehensive listing of public, private and nonprofit transportation in the Washington Metropolitan Region, State of Maryland and beyond. It can be used by everyone in the community; especially by people with disabilities and older adults.. The Commission on People with Disabilities of the Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services and the Department of Transportation compiled this directory of useful transportation services to assist County residents to better coordinate their transportation needs.

www.montgomerycountymd.gov/senior

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Health Studies

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INFORMATION ON AREA CLINICAL TRIALS

Try out Virtual Reality (VR) to help research By Margaret Foster It’s something out of a fantasy novel or a movie: You strap on a pair of oversized goggles, and suddenly you’re somewhere else. When you turn your head, you can see new scenes: a kitchen, a grocery store, your hands, and other 3-D images that aren’t really there. Rather than just leaving these high-tech devices to the younger generation, researchers want older adults to take part in studies of virtual reality, or VR. This summer the National Institutes of Health’s National Institute of Nursing Research

(NINR) is seeking adults ages 18 to 75 to try out VR in two studies. During a four-hour visit to the NIH’s Clinical Center in Bethesda, participants will sit in a chair and put on a headset that displays 3-D images. Then they’ll navigate a series of tasks, such as sitting at a kitchen table and sorting pills and walking through a virtual grocery store. “It’s pretty realistic,” said Jim Holdnack, Ph.D., a staff scientist at the NINR Advanced Visualization Branch. After the seated activities, participants will take a survey to rate their responses.

“We want to make sure that people have a positive experience,” Holdnack said. “We want to evaluate if a virtual shopping experience feels like a real shopping experience and is easy to use for all participants.” In addition, the first phase of the study will evaluate whether or not the headset causes motion sickness, a rare side effect. “There’s nothing in it that should cause that, but sensitive people can feel that way,” Holdnack said.

Other factors can cause cognitive fatigue Although VR sounds like simply a fun, novel technology, it has practical uses. Researchers use it “to measure how people respond to complex stimuli in a controlled environment. Cognitive fatigue can result in serious consequences such as mistakes and accidents. Researchers want to see if VR can be used to learn more about cognitive fatigue,” according to NIH’s study protocol. Therefore, for the study’s second phase, NIH researchers will recruit 60 more people to make two visits to Bethesda. Again, they’ll be seated and will be presented with several scenes. “Part two of the study is about under-

standing how an activity of daily living, such as shopping, can produce cognitive fatigue,” Holdnack explained. To that end, his team has designed three types of shopping experiences. One is “mellow and relaxed,” he said. The second will provide a shopping list and ask participants to navigate the store. The third scenario “is a stressful shopping trip. It’s noisy; things are misplaced,” Holdnack said. “A lot of things in life that cause fatigue don’t have to do with mental work,” he said. “If you add stress to the cognitive workload, as with shopping, does that create an additional sense of mental work?” Holdnack said his team is specifically looking for people over age 55 for its VR studies. Participants will be learning a new skill, testing a novel technology and exercising the brain. “It’s mentally challenging because you’re learning something,” Holdnack said. “If you’ve never done VR before, it’s a little bit of a learning experience.” To participate or find out more about VR studies, call (301) 496-6221. Or contact Office of Patient Recruitment at 1-800-4111222 or email prpl@cc.nih.gov and refer to study number NCT04883359.

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founder of Crossings Healing and Wellness in Silver Spring. This free virtual event

DO YOU HAVE TROUBLE SLEEPING? Study Volunteers Needed No In-Person Visits Required The University of Maryland, Baltimore is conducting a research study to evaluate sleep and daytime function in older adults via mobile app.

We are inviting adults aged 60-85 years old with OR without sleep problems including insomnia, obstructive sleep apnea, and other sleep problems. If you join the study: • You will wear a portable activity band. • You will use an App on your smartphone to answer survey questions. • You will receive compensation. For more information, please contact the study team at: 410-706-1483 or emastudy@som.umaryland.edu. Principal Investigator: Emerson M. Wickwire, PhD ewickwire@som.umaryland.edu 410-706-4771 This research has been approved by the Institutional Review Board at University of Maryland, Baltimore, Protocol # HP-00092562.

takes place Mon., July 12 from 1 to 2 p.m. For more information, visit bit.ly/AcupunctureLongCOVID.

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Double Dutch From page 1 and we were in our 20s and 30s then!” she remembered. After the idea fizzled, Jones decided to write a play about a group of women who jump Double Dutch on their lunch hour in downtown D.C. When a Washington Post writer observes them and writes an article, “wonderful things happen,” Jones said. Jones’ play Outdoor Recess was produced in 1999, 2001 and 2004, and she won a “promising playwright” award for the work. When Jones was promoting the play, several people encouraged her to launch a real Double Dutch team. Deciding it was time for life to imitate art, Jones invited some friends to join her at Turkey Thicket Recreation Center, a park near her home. In time, Jones and her friends were invited to perform or teach at local events and, gradually, organizations began to pay hundreds of dollars per exhibition. At one festival, an actual Washington Post writer glimpsed Jones’ group and

wrote an article about them. The story caught the eye of a producer who books artists’ performances. She called Jones to invite D.C. Retro Jumpers to teach Double Dutch in Russia. In 2018, Jones, Ebb and two other team members flew to Moscow as “cultural ambassadors,” performing at the U.S. Embassy in Moscow and in St. Petersburg. “We were a hit everywhere we went,” Jones said.

Book about Double Dutch After the Russia excursion, Jones’ literary agent suggested she write a children’s book about the sport. Jayla Jumps In was published in September 2020 (the paperback comes out this fall), and Jones dedicated it to her Double Dutch team. Today Jones — a playwright, performance poet, writing instructor and trainer — is in the process of writing a second children’s book and co-writing a biography of Bill and Lois Wilson, the husband and wife behind Alcoholics Anonymous. Jones admits she’s not particularly good

Want to jump by yourself? Like the idea of jumping rope for the health benefits, but want to do it on your own? Jump ropes have come a long way since we were kids. Now often made with ball bearings in the handles to keep the ropes from tangling, adjustable length jump ropes can be purchased from $5 and up on Amazon.com. The latest thing for boosting your workout are weighted jump ropes. These ropes are thicker and weigh anywhere from ¼ lb. to 5 lbs., burning more calories and boosting cardiovascular fitness and endurance. Weighted ropes typically sell for $20 and up. And don’t think these are only for experts. Psychologist and trainer Dr.

Janine Delaney is quoted in Good Housekeeping as recommending them for beginners because the feel of the rope helps with timing of the jumps. Fitness experts at Good Housekeeping’s Wellness Lab says the best weighted jump ropes are those from Crossrope.com. The handles can be easily switched among different weights of rope, and Crossrope’s app offers tutorials for beginners, a variety of workouts, and tracks your progress and calories burned. Crossrope bundles start at $99, but deals are offered on their website: Crossrope.com. They also sell a large rubber mat for jumping on to reduce stress on the joints. –– Stuart Rosenthal

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at Double Dutch, but she does it for fun and exercise — and to spend time with friends. Showing off their skills isn’t the point of D.C Retro Jumpers’ exhibitions, she said; it’s about teaching others how to do it. “Anyone from 8 to 80” can learn how to jump, Jones said, and she and Ebb have taught people of all ages at their events. “You can learn in less than 10 minutes, and when we get you in the rope, the person is excited that they can actually do it,” Jones said. One woman in her 70s watched them for an hour before shyly asking to try. “I just love seeing people who haven’t done it in a while or who have never tried it,” Ebb said. After a little encouragement, “They show off, turn around, kick their feet up. That makes me scream and holler because they built up their courage.” In teaching after-school classes, Ebb

sometimes “gets the chills” when she sees a child try a new move or invent a rhyme, she said. She has formed bonds with children who recognize her at the grocery store and confide in her. “I’m doing what I’m supposed to be doing,” Ebb said of her part-time job as a Double Dutch trainer. “I’m so glad that I’m able to help the community one way or the other because my community was a village. That’s what I want to be for them. If I can make them strong or make them keep moving, I’m there for them.” Teaching Double Dutch a job that Ebb, 55, plans to keep for years to come. “For as long as I can turn [the ropes], I’ll be doing this. It’s so gratifying. What I’m doing is hitting so many points — the health benefits, the camaraderie,” Ebb said. “I don’t want to stop.”

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J U L Y 2 0 2 1 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Eating right to support kidney health By University Health Network Our kidneys play a vital role in protecting our overall health. What exactly are their main functions? – Remove wastes and excess fluid: They filter about 200 quarts of blood daily to create one to two quarts of urine. – Assist in the creation of red blood cells: They make a hormone called erythropoietin which signals bone marrow to make red blood cells. Red blood cells de-

liver oxygen to all our cells. – Help regulate blood pressure: They produce angiotensin, a hormone that causes blood vessels to restrict as needed to maintain blood pressure and fluid balance in the body. – Keep bones strong: They produce an active form of vitamin D which is needed to absorb calcium and phosphorus, minerals crucial to strong bones. – Maintain pH levels: Our bodies re-

quire a tightly controlled pH level in the blood of about 7.4. Our kidneys balance the amount of acid and alkaline to keep that level just where we need it. In the United States, 37 million adults are living with kidney disease. The main causes are high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity. These diseases can damage the blood vessels of many organs, including the kidneys. The good news is that making changes to our lifestyle can prevent or slow kidney disease. “Diet, smoking, and obesity are modifiable lifestyle factors that we can all control. By eating well, quitting smoking, and maintaining a normal weight, people can protect their kidneys and prevent future damage,” said Dr. Alex Chang, M.D., M.S. of Johns Hopkins University. Here are some dietary changes to make to help maintain kidney health: Reduce sodium. Most Americans consume about 50% more than the recommended intake of 2300 milligrams. Eat less salty snacks, limit convenience foods, prepare more meals at home, and remove the saltshaker from the table. Choose plant-forward meals. Diets high in animal protein from red meat may harm the kidneys. Consuming more plantbased foods like dried beans, nuts, seeds, tofu and vegetables protects your kidneys

and provides great nutrition and fiber. Drink water. Sugar sweetened beverages like sodas, energy drinks, specialty coffee and tea drinks, and smoothies are high in calories and sugar. Some sodas, including cola drinks, also contain phosphorus which can be harmful to the kidneys. Pass on processed foods. Processed, packaged and convenience foods are generally high in sodium and phosphorus additives which can damage the kidneys.

The DASH diet The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet was originally designed to help lower blood pressure. It is rich in vegetables and fruits, fat-free and low-fat dairy products, whole grains, fish, poultry, beans, seeds and nuts and low in salt, added sugars and sweets and red meats. A study published in the American Journal of Kidney Disease concluded that in addition to its benefit for blood pressure, the DASH Diet was also associated with a lower risk for developing kidney disease. You can find more information about the DASH Die at nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/dash-eating-plan. Reprinted with permission from Environmental Nutrition, © 2021 Belvoir Media Group. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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SPECIAL PULL-OUT SECTION

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J U L Y 2 0 2 1 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Finding affordable housing for older adults By Jim Miller Dear Savvy Senior, Are there any resources to help seniors find and pay for senior apartments? My aunt, who’s 75 years old, needs to find a new place to live but has very little money. What can you tell me? — Searching Sarah Dear Sarah, Finding affordable senior housing options can be difficult, depending on where your aunt lives. Senior apartments for some retirees are a good option, and you’ll be happy to know that there are a number of government programs that can help out financially.

Here are some tips that can help you and your aunt find a low-income senior apartment that fits her budget and living preferences:

Start with HUD There are several different government programs available today that can help individuals who qualify to locate and pay for housing, including: Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8): This program allows you to find the housing you want. The government provides the amount allowed by your voucher to the landlord each month. Privately owned subsidized housing: HUD helps some apartment owners offer

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RIVER CLEANUPS Pitch in to clean up the Potomac with the Potomac Riverkeeper

Network. River cleanups take place in Alexandria (on the first and fourth Saturday of the month) and National Harbor (second Saturday of the month) until October. For the next cleanup, meet at 8:30 a.m. on July 10 in the parking lot for the National Harbor Carousel, 137 National Plaza, Oxon Hill, MD. Bring water; gloves, bags and trash pickers will be provided. For more information, visit potomacriverkeepernetwork.org or call (202) 888-2037.

reduced rents to low-income tenants. Public Housing: These communities are generally apartment buildings or complexes that are overseen by a city or county public housing agency, and are available to low-income families, the elderly and those with disabilities. Low-Income Housing Tax Credit: This program provides housing to low-income families and includes rents that don’t exceed a fixed amount. Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly: This initiative helps seniors and the disabled. It offers housing for individuals who are able to live mostly on their own but need assistance with certain daily tasks like cleaning and cooking. In this area, Homecrest House in Silver Spring, Md., offers such a program for tenants 62 or older. Rent is based on a percentage of household income. For more information about these programs and to locate apartments in your aunt’s area that may offer them, visit the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development rental assistance page at HUD.gov/topics/rental_assistance. You can also search for low-income housing at senior living sites like After55.com and SeniorHousingNet.com. If you or your aunt don’t have internet access or have troubling maneuvering the

internet, you can also locate nearby affordable housing options by calling your local housing authority. Call 1-800-955-2232 to get your local number. If your aunt lives in a location that spans multiple counties, check with the housing authority in each one to compare. Here are numbers to call for this area: In D.C., call (202) 535-1000. In Montgomery County, Maryland, call the Housing Opportunities Commission at (240) 627-9793 or email help@hocmc.org. In Prince George’s County, Maryland, call (301) 883-5501. In Arlington, Va., call (703) 228-3765. In Alexandria, Va., call (703) 5497115. In Fairfax, Va., call (703) 246-5000.

Local options Specializing in HUD, Tax Credit, and Section 8 housing for 30 years, Quantum Real Estate Management oversees several properties in the D.C. metro area, all with affordable apartments for older adults. Germantown’s Covenant Village, Ashburn’s Wingler House Apartments and Arlington’s Lockwood House are among its portfolio of properties. In D.C.’s Tenleytown neighborhood, Seabury at Friendship Terrace is an affordable senior living community with a See AFFORDABLE HOUSING, page B-3

Yep, it’s the party crowd. Áǝƺɀƺ ǔȒǼǸɀ ƳǣƳȇ‫ټ‬Ɏ ɀɎȒȵ ǝƏɮǣȇǕ ǔɖȇ ɯǝƺȇ Ɏǝƺɵ ȸƺɎǣȸƺƳِ Xȇ‫ژ‬ǔƏƬɎً they took it up a notch (or ten). Which is precisely why Ɏǝƺɵ ƬǝȒɀƺ ɎȒ Ǽǣɮƺ ƏɎ Áǝƺ‫ژ‬nƏȇƳǣȇǕ Ȓǔ ³ǣǼɮƺȸ‫ژ‬³ȵȸǣȇǕِ Call (301) 200-0928 now to schedule your complimentary lunch and in-person tour. And let’s get this party started. xȒɮƺ‫ژ‬ǣȇ‫ژ‬ƫɵ‫ ژ‬ɖǕɖɀɎ ‫ד׏‬Ɏǝ ƏȇƳ ɀƏɮƺ ɖȵ ɎȒ ‫ٍ׎׎׎ً׎׏ڟ‬

A Whole Lotta Heart

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WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — J U L Y 2 0 2 1

Affordable housing From page B-2 rooftop terrace and greenhouse. An inhouse chef serves lunch and dinner, and daily activities keep residents busy. While Friendship Terrace has independent-living units, its sister facility, Springvale Terrace in downtown Silver Spring, has affordable assisted-living units as well as independent living apartments with care services, some with subsidies. Livingston Place at Southern Ave., in Southeast D.C.’s Ward 8, is a new fivestory, 152-unit assisted-living building for people age 60 and up. Its perks include a dining room, lounge, beauty parlor and onsite doctors, therapists and dentists. In Maryland a new, “upscale affordable” apartment building opened this summer near FedEx Field. The Residences at Glenarden Hills, located in Prince George’s County’s new 27-acre planned community, are available to qualified renters age 55 and older. Each unit has a porch or patio, and the four-story building has a community room and fitness center. If you see a property named Park View, it’s most likely part of the Enterprise Residential family. Managing more than 80 affordable housing communities, Enterprise Residential oversees affordable housing units in Maryland, Pennsylvania and Virginia, some for people as young as 55.

In Arlington, both independent-living and assisted living-units are available for people 62 and up at Culpepper Garden Apartments. Located on five acres, Culpepper Garden offers a dining service, housekeeping, book club, games, movies and live performances. [Ed. Note: All of these bolded communities advertise in the Beacon and are listed on the Free Info Request Form found on page 5 of this issue.]

out the neighborhood. Ask yourself if the community is clean and well maintained and if there is any debris or messy landscaping. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, follow up with questions before your aunt signs a rental contract.

Margaret Foster contributed to this article. Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of The Savvy Senior book.

Where Resi Residents ents Come First

How to choose If you or your aunt find several apartment choices that fall within her budget, she should consider what’s important to her. She may want housing that’s close to family, religious organizations, senior centers, or places she visits regularly, like grocery stores, parks or gyms. Or, if she has a disabling condition, it may be especially critical for her to find a living space that has easy access to important services like senior transportation and healthcare centers. In your housing search, you may also come across some red flags that indicate a retirement community wouldn’t be a good fit for your aunt. Keep an eye out for extra fees that may be applied to everyday items, or perks you normally wouldn’t think about, such as laundry service, parking or pets. You should also make sure the apartment is in good condition and then scout

What Families Are Saying “Dedication to the residents is what makes Chesterbrook stand out from other places. Each resident is known by name and is welcomed into the community, creating a safe and warm environment.” - Gwynn C., Resident Family Member

Call 703-531-0781 to schedule your visit. Our friendly team and residents can’t wait to meet you and show you what makes Chesterbrook not just a community, but a family!

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Housing News By Beacon Staff

Modena Reserve to open in fall 2021 This fall, Solera Senior Living will open its newest senior living community, Modena Reserve at Kensington in Maryland. The facility blends contemporary design with historic architecture, transforming the former Mizell Gas Station and Mizell Hardware and Lumber Store into unique community spaces. Located next to the Kensington train depot and several shops and restaurants, Modena Reserve offers residents an opportunity for an active lifestyle. The new Ushaped building wraps around a 20,000square-foot landscaped courtyard. “It is a beautiful design with curved ex-

J U L Y 2 0 2 1 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

terior and interior walls,” said executive director Janey Bradley. “The finishes are gorgeous, and the sensibility of the building is so detailed.” The main residential building will contain 135 units: 62 for independent living, 47 for assisted living and 26 for memory care. Communal living spaces include an exhibition kitchen, dining room, lounge, art studio and wine bar with indoor or outdoor happy hours. The building that once housed Mizell Hardware and Lumber will be restored to contain a full-service salon, offering massages, facials and a gym and relaxation room. The old Mizell Gas Station is being restored as the District Café, open to Modena Reserve residents as well as the public. Solera Senior Living, established five years ago, currently has five communities located in Arizona, Colorado and Florida. New facilities will open in the next year in

Luxury Assisted Living —Coming Soon. Assisted Living, Reimagined.

Evanston, Illinois and Austin, Texas. Another facility is planned later for Falls Church, Virginia. “Our facilities are purpose-built,” Bradley said. “We are looking at the demographics and how we can impact the market.” Bradley described the Solera concept of senior living as a “strong hospitality model in tandem with a strong healthcare model.” Solera’s model of hospitality-driven culture focuses on residents’ quality of life. “We provide everything residents need for mind, body and spirit,” Bradley said. Modena Reserve has cutting-edge technology, including an in-house television channel through which residents can conduct virtual visits with family as well as livestream fitness classes, cooking demonstrations and concerts. It also offers a wearable technology called CarePredict that provides two-way communication between residents and

The Seneca, a modern assisted living community opening summer 2021 in Rockville, Maryland, gives each resident the opportunity to craft their own unique story. With a reﬁned yet welcoming design, engaging activities, and elevated dining, this is a place that blends thoughtful assisted living care with an unparalleled lifestyle—all in a prime neighborhood with access to extraordinary outings, and 24/7 concierge service that makes it easy to make the most of each day. Reserve your residence today and receive a waived membership fee and a three-year residence rate lock. To learn more, please contact us at 240-614-2800.

senecarockville.com 55 W. Gude Dr., Rockville, MD 20850 | 240-614-2800 ASSISTED LIVING

THE BRIDGE

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A SILVERSTONE/WATERMARK RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

caregivers and uses GPS to keep all residents, particularly those with memory issues, safe. “We are proud to be part of the town of Kensington and to offer next-generation senior living where you will want to live, not need to live,” Bradley said. For more information, call (240) 998-9990. —Catherine Brown

The Seneca opens A new luxury retirement community is slated to open in July on the site of Rockville’s historic King Farm. The Seneca has four restaurants, including an outdoor courtyard and exhibition kitchen, where chefs showcase their talent. The Seneca has 87 assisted-living residences and 30 memory-care suites. For residents who are in between those programs, the facility offers The Bridge program, providing more support than traditional assisted living. The Seneca is one of 58 Watermark Retirement Communities in the country, all of which offer 90 different classes through its award-winning Watermark University (pottery, chess, yoga and more). The Seneca’s designers emphasize “the ability to connect with nature on a daily basis,” according to its website. Indeed, the six-story building is located next to the trails of King Farm Park and is surrounded by landscaped verandas, gardens and a meditative labyrinth walk. For more information, call (240) 614-2800. —Margaret Foster

The Virginian begins renovation, expansion One of Northern Virginia’s premier senior living communities is in the process of undergoing an 18-month landmark renovation. Located in Fairfax, The Virginian offers older adults active independent living with options for additional care. In March 2021, workers broke ground for a $56.5 million renovation that will transform the facility into a resort lifestyle community. A new 367,000-square-foot building will have seven stories and four wings. Residences will include 155 independent living apartments, 56 assisted living spaces, and 30 memory care rooms. The renovation will also include multiple dining venues, a wine cellar, fitness center, indoor pool, indoor golf simulator, driving range, pickleball courts, theater, salons and a dog park. For more than 40 years The Virginian has provided luxury rentals and high-end amenities without the pricey buy-in fees of traditional continuing care retirement communities. Its rental model is a popular program for residents. For more information, call (703) 385-0555. —Catherine Brown

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WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — J U L Y 2 0 2 1

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Homebuyers willing to pay above asking price By Alex Veiga The red-hot U.S. housing market is widening the gap between what a home is objectively worth and what eager buyers are willing to pay for it. Fierce competition amid an ultra-low inventory of homes on the market is fueling bidding wars, prompting a growing share of would-be buyers to sweeten offers well above what sellers are asking. Home prices have rocketed to new highs and many homes are selling for more than their appraised value. “This might be the most competitive housing market we’ve ever seen in the United States, at least in modern times,” said Jeff Tucker, a senior economist at Zillow. The share of U.S. homes purchased

above their list price has been steadily rising since early last year after the housing market began to bounce back from a brief slowdown in the early weeks of the pandemic. An average of 20.3% of homes sold last year went for more than their list price, up from an average of 14.2% in 2019, according to data from Zillow. Homebuyers appear no less eager to sweeten offers this year. An average of about 28% of homes sold above their list price in January and February. The trend is apparent in the nation’s most expensive housing markets. Some 54.4% of homes sold in San Francisco in February went for more than advertised, while 51.6% did in Seattle. Some 42.1% of homes sold above their list price in the sprawling metro-

politan area spanning Los Angeles, Long Beach and Anaheim, California. Still, even in less pricey housing markets, bidding wars are pushing up prices. Some 41.2% of homes sold in in February in Wichita, Kansas, went above the list price, and 60.5% did in Boise, Idaho, Zillow said. While sales of previously occupied U.S. homes slowed in April for the third straight month, the dearth of properties

on the market has kept prices climbing to new highs. The U.S. median home price in April surged 19.1% from a year earlier to a record $341,600, according to the National Association of Realtors. Homes are being snapped up within days. Nearly 90% of homes sold in April were on the market for less than a month, according to the NAR. See HOT HOUSING, page B-6

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Hot housing From page B-5

Bidding wars inflate prices Meanwhile, buyers’ increasing willingness to outbid rivals is distorting the objective measure of home values. In April, 19% of homes had their appraised value come in below the contract price, according to data from CoreLogic. In the same month the two previous years it was 8%. “The frequency of buyers being willing to pay more than the market data supports is increasing,” said Shawn Telford, chief appraiser at CoreLogic. When a home purchase is being financed by a bank, the lender typically requires an appraisal to make sure the estimated value of the home matches the agreed-upon price. Appraisers determine the value of a property by looking at re-

J U L Y 2 0 2 1 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

cent sales of comparable homes. In cases when the appraised value comes in below the contract price, the buyer has to make up the difference between the sale price and the amount the bank is willing to lend. Regardless of whether appraisals fall short of what buyers are willing to pay, the bidding war-fueled prices at which homes are currently selling will help set the benchmark for setting home values in coming years. “The sale prices recorded now will certainly help anchor people’s ideas of, ‘OK, that’s just how much a home on this block costs, that’s how much it sold for last year,’” Tucker said. “I suspect sellers will begin to expect to receive that much if they go out and decide to sell their home next year.” —AP

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Brooke Grove Retirement Village 301-637-8928 18100 Slade School Road Sandy Spring, MD 20860 www.bfg.org You’ll feel it as soon as you drive onto our 220-acre campus of lush pastures and hardwood forest—all that makes independent living at Brooke Grove different. Beautiful cottages in a truly picturesque setting. Maintenance-free living, with more time for what you really want to do. Personalized fitness programs, meals prepared by talented chefs, clubs and social events. Neighbors who share your interests and passions. Come for a visit and see why Brooke Grove Retirement Village is one of the most soughtafter retirement communities in the state. Living here is simply different … because what surrounds you really matters.

INDEPENDENT LIVING COMMUNITY

Greenspring Retirement Community 877-589-9570 7410 Spring Village Drive, Springﬁeld, VA 22150 GreenspringCommunity.com Greenspring offers independent and secure senior living Life at Springfield’s premier senior living community offers extraordinary benefits in uncertain times. A caring community to support you – Here, you gain a network of friends and neighbors, plus a caring staff including full-time doctors who specialize in senior health. A large, dedicated staff – At Greenspring, you’re free to live life on your terms while the committed staff takes care of the essentials. Financial stability in uncertain times – Greenspring is managed by Erickson Living®, a leader in senior living with 20 communities in eleven states. Learn more. Call 1-877-589-9570 for your free brochure or to schedule your in-person or virtual visit.

INDEPENDENT LIVING COMMUNITY

Seabury at Friendship Terrace 202-244-7400 4201 Butterworth Place NW Washington, DC 20016 www.friendshipterrace.org Affordable senior living close to stores, restaurants, transportation and entertainment can be found at Seabury at Friendship Terrace! Located in a quiet, tree-lined northwest Washington neighborhood, Friendship Terrace is just a short walk from the Tenleytown Metro station. The community offers affordable senior living. Residents enjoy exciting on-site events including performances, lectures, holiday observances, socials, and more. A rooftop deck, greenhouse, library, lounges, and a dining room overlooking an outdoor courtyard are highlights of the community. Your new home awaits. Remarkable in town value! Applications now being accepted. Call for your apartment today!

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Housing Options

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — J U L Y 2 0 2 1

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Listing your home in 2021? What to know By Elizabeth Renter It’s a good time to be a home seller — homes are selling fast and for a premium — but that doesn’t mean you can jump into the market ill-prepared. Knowing what to expect can position you to make the most of this seller’s market. Roughly 1 in 6 (17%) homeowners plan on selling their home in the next 18 months, according to a new NerdWallet survey conducted online by The Harris Poll among 2,127 homeowners. Those listings will be a welcome sight to buyers currently competing for a limited number of homes commanding top dollar. The March survey found that this current market is playing a role in many of these home sellers’ motivations. In fact, 45% of those planning to sell in the next 18 months say recent changes to the housing market, including higher asking prices and lower inventory, have spurred them to sell earlier than initially planned. If you’re among the homeowners preparing to be on the favored side of this strong seller’s market, here’s what you need to know:

You may be able to skip presale home improvements In addition to cleaning your house for showings, preparing to sell your home

often means doing minor (or major) repairs and upgrades. But homebuyers are stalking real estate listings and jumping on those that even get close to checking all the boxes, so sellers could likely save some money by limiting or forgoing expensive projects altogether. More than 4 in 5 homeowners planning to sell in the next 18 months say they plan to spend roughly $2,000 on major repairs or renovations to make their home more appealing to potential buyers prior to selling. “You really can get away without doing renovations and minor repairs,” said Holden Lewis, NerdWallet mortgages expert. “Unless the house has a major problem like a leaky roof, you’re probably better off selling as-is. Make it a priority to declutter and depersonalize the home so it’s easy for buyers to imagine themselves living there. The buyers can fix it up and renovate it on their own dime and schedule.”

ning to sell in the next 18 months say recent changes to the housing market have spurred them to sell earlier than initially planned, according to the survey. Single-

It will all move very quickly If you list your home in this market, there’s little question of the outcome. Barring any significant defaults or dramatic overpricing, you’ll sell your home. It will happen quickly, and you could receive multiple offers over listing price. Nearly half (45%) of homeowners plan-

family homes are in high demand, so selling now means you’ll sell faster and for a See LISTING YOUR HOME, page B-8

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J U L Y 2 0 2 1 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Should you rent or buy your next home? By Patricia Mertz Esswein The housing market is hot, and it’s a great time to sell your home. But if you’re thinking about renting your next one, consider the tradeoffs. Renting temporarily is fine if you want to try a new location or if you anticipate moving frequently early in retirement. However, the longer you rent in retirement, the riskier it becomes. Buying a home usually makes more sense if you plan to stay put at least five to seven years — long enough to recoup the costs of buying and selling the property.

Reasons to rent The temptation to rent now is understandable. In January, renting was cheaper

than buying in 34 of the largest 50 U.S. cities, according to Realtor.com, where you’ll find sale and rental listings. In those cities, the median monthly rent of $1,727 was $261 less than the monthly mortgage payment of $1,988 for the median-priced home. Over the past 20 years, rent has increased an average of 3% annually, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The tax benefits of homeownership also aren’t what they used to be, particularly if you live in a high-cost area. Tax reform in 2017 reduced the amount of mortgage debt eligible for a mortgage interest deduction from $1 million to $750,000. The law applies to mortgage debt acquired after Dec. 15, 2017, and also caps the deduction of state and local property, sales

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and income taxes at $10,000. Because the standard deduction is higher, you may no longer itemize deductions anyway. Although you won’t benefit from any home price appreciation as a renter, you may do as well or better long term if you invest the equity from the sale of your home in a diversified portfolio of stocks and bonds, says Wade Pfau, professor of retirement income at the American Col-

lege of Financial Services. In fact, despite the recent run-up in home prices (10.4% in 2020, according to the S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller Index), many retirees will be lucky if their home rises in value with inflation or exceeds it over the long term, he says, citing economist Robert Shiller. If your neighborhood was hot when you bought, the greatest gains in value may be behind you.

Listing your home

the next 18 months say one of their primary motivations for selling is that they no longer want to be a homeowner, according to the survey. For the rest of these sellers, entering the crowded pool of homebuyers will present challenges. Given the likely ease with which you’ll sell and the difficulty you might have finding a replacement home, it may make sense to be under contract on a purchase when or soon after your home hits the market. “The trickiest part of navigating today’s market is finding a home to replace the one you’re selling,” Lewis says. “You can make the buyer’s purchase contingent on your finding suitable housing. In other words, you can make your buyer wait. Normally, buyers are reluctant to accept that condition. But we’re in a seller’s market, and sellers make the rules.” —AP

From page B-7 higher price than you would under other conditions. Existing homes are only on the market for an average of 20 days, according to the most recent data from the National Association of Realtors — that’s listed and under contract in less than three weeks. So be prepared to sell the moment you hang that “For Sale” sign. It’s ideal to have your next home already lined up, but that may be easier said than done.

You’ll face stiff competition shopping for a new home The very things that make it a good time to sell make it a tough time to buy a house. Just 10% of those planning to sell in

See RENT OR BUY, page B-9

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Housing Options

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — J U L Y 2 0 2 1

Rent or buy From page B-8

Reasons not to rent That said, Lori Atwood, a financial planner in Washington, D.C., discourages clients who sell a home from renting in retirement. For one thing, you lose the flexibility of having an asset that you can both live in and tap for cash as needed, perhaps through a reverse mortgage. That’s particularly important as long-term care insurance becomes less affordable. If you need skilled care later in retirement, your home can be liquidated to cover the cost. Renting also brings instability. “If the rent keeps going up or someone will throw you out because their cousin wants to move in,

risk has come to the retiree, and that’s the last thing you want,” Atwood said. Rising rent could be a hard pill to swallow if your investment income doesn’t keep up with inflation or your rent increases faster than your retirement income. Atwood encourages clients who sell a home to buy their next one for cash so they will be housing secure, with neither a mortgage nor a rent payment. “If you’re leasing a property, your stability lasts only until the end of your lease,” says Scott Abernathy, president of the National Association of Residential Property Managers. If landlords want to reoccupy the home or sell it and cash out their equity, they will refuse to renew your lease. You could be forced to move sooner than you would like and scramble to find some-

BEACON BITS

July 8

FREE BLUEGRASS CONCERT

Relax and listen to bluegrass band Justin Trawick and the Common Good. Check out an outdoor concert at Jammin Java, 227 Maple Ave. East, Vienna, VA. The outdoor venue offers many free concerts, including Grateful Dead tribute bands and others. For a schedule, see jamminjava.com.

July 31+

LEGO EXPO

If your grandchildren love LEGOs, stop by the Dulles Expo Center in Chantilly, VA, to see elaborate creations. The BrickFair LEGO Fan Expo also offers games, play stations, bounce houses and group activities. Tickets are $15 each; see brickfair.com for more information.

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place else, perhaps at a significantly higher rent. And moving becomes more difficult and disruptive with age. Meanwhile, if you choose to break a lease early, it will cost you. Your lease could require you to fork over two months of rent, sacrifice your security deposit or cover the costs until a new tenant is found. Not having the responsibility of home maintenance is another double-edged sword. While most home maintenance,

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such as repairing a leaky roof or replacing a malfunctioning water heater, is the landlord’s responsibility, you could get a landlord or property manager who is slow to respond or simply doesn’t care. A responsible landlord may be more attentive but also could balk at letting you add features to facilitate aging in place. © 2021 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

BEACON BITS

July 29+

FREE OUTDOOR KENNEDY CENTER EVENTS

The Kennedy Center presents a free block party at the Reach Plaza as part of the Millennium Stage Summer Series. The event takes place Thurs., July 29 and Fri., July 30 at 5:30 p.m. and Sat., July 31 at 10 a.m. Registration begins Fri., July 16 at 10 a.m. For more information, visit bit.ly/DCLegendaryMusic or call (202) 416-8000.

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INDEPENDENT LIVING COMMUNITY

J U L Y 2 0 2 1 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

CONTINUING CARE RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

Chevy Chase House 202-905-0708

Maplewood Park Place (301) 571-7441

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9707 Old Georgetown Road Bethesda, MD 20814 MaplewoodParkPlace.com

Summer is in full swing at Chevy Chase House with new services and amenities! Our new, state-of-the-art gym offers wellness classes; individualized cardiovascular exercise; balance training; and PT, OT, speech therapy and specialized Parkinson's programs from Fox Rehab. Plus, our culinary team has created an exciting new menu inspired by New York City delis. Enjoy more time with friends and family on our enlarged patio! What is not new is our continued commitment to the care and well-being of our residents. Our spacious apartments start at $3999 for a studio. Call 202-905-0708 to schedule a tour, or stop by to learn more about our community. We look forward to meeting you!

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INDEPENDENT LIVING COMMUNITY

Ashby Ponds 877-664-5445 21170 Ashby Ponds Boulevard Ashburn, VA 20147 AshbyPonds.com You can feel confident about senior living at Ashby Ponds. Life at Loudoun County’s premier senior living community offers extraordinary benefits in uncertain times. The size and strength to keep you safe – Ashby Ponds is managed by Erickson Living®, a leader in senior living with 20 communities in eleven states. The support of a caring community – Here, you gain a network of friends and neighbors, plus a caring staff including full-time doctors who specialize in senior health. The freedom to enjoy your retirement – At Ashby Ponds, you’re free to live life on your terms while the dedicated staff takes care of the essentials. Learn more. Call 1-877-664-5445 for your free brochure or to schedule your in-person or virtual visit.

INDEPENDENT LIVING COMMUNITY

Sommerset Retirement 703-450-6411 22355 Providence Village Dr. Sterling, VA 20164 www.Sommersetretirement.com At Sommerset Retirement Community, located in the heart of Sterling, Virginia, you’ll experience exceptional independent living at its best, with a comfortable, fulfilling, secure and active lifestyle. Sommerset’s unique amenities include restaurant style dining, housekeeping, 24-hour front desk personnel and private transportation. Enjoy the convenience of being just minutes from medical services, shopping, banking and entertainment. Sommerset has been awarded with the Senior Advisor 2021 Best of Senior Living award, an award exclusively designated to only 3% of senior communities nationwide. Call us or visit our website to request more information or to schedule your tour.

Maplewood Park Place is proud to welcome owner residents of varied backgrounds, ethnicities, and lifestyles. As another step forward in our inclusive culture, Services & Advocacy for GLBT Elders (SAGE)—the country’s largest organization dedicated to improving the lives of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) older adults—recently named us a Platinum-Level Provider. Maplewood is a resident-owned cooperative community for those age 62 or better. Located inside the Beltway, we offer independent living, assisted living, skilled nursing care, memory care and support, and rehabilitation services. We are devoted to creating a vibrant community—one where those who live and visit will always feel a sense of belonging.

INDEPENDENT LIVING

Seabury at Springvale Terrace (301) 587-8717 8505 Springvale Road Silver Spring, MD 20910 SpringvaleTerraceApts.com Discover Seabury at Springvale Terrace, inside and out. Enjoy the benefits of Independent Living just steps away from downtown Silver Spring. Within blocks, you will have access to the Silver Spring Civic Center, pharmacies, movie theaters, library, shopping, & restaurants. Come join us to dine and experience one of our chef inspired,delicious meals that are served restaurant style each and every single day. Enjoy a comfortable private studio apartment with care services available. Rents from as low as $835 per month with a signed lease before August 15th. Call 301 587-0190 or email svtadmissions@seaburyresoources.org for info and to schedule a tour.

INDEPENDENT & ASSISTED LIVING + MEMORY CARE

The Landing 571-577-6011 2620 Main Line Boulevard Alexandria VA 22301 www.landingalexandria.com Leasing Oﬃce: 950 N. Washington Street, Suites 213 & 214, Alexandria, VA 22314 The Landing, part of Silverstone & Watermark’s Élite Collection, is an independent living, assisted living and memory care community opening in early 2022. Located in the new collective National Landing neighborhood, The Landing offers residences with private balconies and sweeping views of the Potomac River and Washington, D.C., including nine premium penthouse suites. With its emphasis on hospitality-focused living and state-of-the-art amenities, The Landing offers an array of culinary options, including three signature chef-driven restaurants, a wine cellar, private dining and a rooftop terrace lounge featuring regionally inspired cuisine and local ingredients. The Landing’s lifestyle offers unparalleled comfort and convenience close to the Metro, Reagan National Airport, the future site of Amazon HQ2 and more.

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Housing Options

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — J U L Y 2 0 2 1

B-11

FREE HOUSING AND OTHER INFORMATION For free information from advertisers in this special section, check off those that interest you and mail this entire page to the Beacon. Please do not request info if you are not interested. All forms received by July 31, 2021 have an equal chance to win tickets to Godspell.

HOUSING COMMUNITIES: WASHINGTON, DC

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Check the boxes you’re interested in and return this entire coupon to: The Beacon, P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915-2227. You may return our free info form on page 5 together with this coupon. Name __________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Address ____________________________________________________E-mail_______________________________________________ City _______________________________________________________ State ______________________ Zip ____________________ Phone (day) _______________________________________________ (eve) ___________________________________________

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J U L Y 2 0 2 1 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Face it: Your kids don’t want your stuff By T. Eric Reich I know I’m going to get a few calls about this article, but hear me out. We talk a lot about managing your estate and strategies for making the most of an inheritance, but what we don’t often talk about is what to do with your “stuff” and the realities that surround that. When helping people with their estate planning, we obviously cover the big issues, such as IRA or retirement plan beneficiary info, wills, trusts, power of attorney and advance directives (or POLST). We review titling of the assets in your estate with your CPA or attorney. But what we often don’t talk about is what to do with all of your stuff. The reality is that what you want to happen with your stuff is often not what your heirs want to do with it. Let’s start with the big one, your house. This is the one people balk at the most, but here goes: Your kids don’t want your house. I know you think they do, but they really don’t. In most cases, even when they do, it would be impractical for them to buy it anyway. How are three kids going to “share” my house? There’s no way that’s going to

work, even though the idea of them sharing a shore house sounds nice. The reality is that they likely can’t share it, and forcing them to do so will almost certainly lead to hard feelings. Somebody is going to get more use of it than the others, and that’s where the problems start. If one of them wants to buy out the others, that’s fine — but what are the terms in which they can buy it? Do they get a “discount” because they are family? Doesn’t that hurt the others’ value for the same reason?

Vacation homes can be a burden Sometimes I hear that “I want them to have a place to go to in the summer.” I had a situation not long ago where a client really wanted a grandchild to have the beach house. Carrying the house was actually causing financial issues for her, but she didn’t want to give it up so she could pass it on. The heir lived out of state, but she really wanted them to have it. Finally, I suggested we call the heir and ask if she wanted the beach house. The heir, as I suspected, loved the idea of a house at the Jersey Shore but didn’t really

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want it because they wouldn’t have time to ever visit it and the long-distance upkeep, maintenance, etc. would be added stress for them. With this new information, my client decided to let the house go, live a far more comfortable retirement and leave to her heir what they really wanted, cash.

Collectibles and china Now for the smaller stuff. While your collection of Hummels, model trains or baseball cards is your hobby and passion, rarely does that continue to your heirs. If they don’t share your passion for those collectibles, they may be likely to sell them for less than their full value when they inherit them because they don’t fully understand their true value. Lastly, your beautiful china. Understand that there are only so many sets of china that your kids or grandchildren can use. Add to this the fact that younger generations don’t use china much at all compared to older generations, let alone five sets. To make your estate transfer as easy as possible and with as few family scuffles as possible, address these issues now.

The bottom line and some tips If you aren’t sure how your heirs feel about inheriting your “stuff,” then the easi-

est course of action is simply to ask them. I think you’ll be surprised with the answer. Then get busy: Start selling. Sell items that you don’t need anymore that might have some value. Ebay and Etsy are great places to start, or heck, have a garage sale. Donate things others could use. Goodwill and Salvation Army could do some good with your generosity, and dropping off your donations is like volunteering, which always feels good. Make it fun. Going through your things bit by bit can be a shared activity with your loved ones. Think about all the conversations and memories you’ll share as you declutter. Enjoy the results. Your house will feel bigger, and the weight on your shoulders will feel lighter. Your kids will thank you, too. This article was written by and presents the views of Kiplinger's contributing adviser, not editorial staff. Check adviser records with the SEC or FINRA. T. Eric Reich, President of Reich Asset Management, LLC, is a Certified Financial Planner™ professional, holds a Certified Investment Management Analyst certification, and holds Chartered Life Underwriter® and Chartered Financial Consultant® designations.

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12751 Sudley Manor Dr, Bristow, VA 20136

Bristow’s newest and best option for independent retirement living is opening soon! You may have noticed the construction at 12751 Sudley Manor Dr,, and while the building itself is top quality, we will offer so much more than a place to live. At Capitol Ridge, all utilities except telephone will be included in one reasonable monthly rent. We’ll take care of the cooking, housekeeping, and local transportation, leaving you more time to enjoy your retirement with new friends and family.

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Housing Options

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — J U L Y 2 0 2 1

LIFE PLAN COMMUNITY

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ASSISTED LIVING & MEMORY CARE

Modena Reserve at Kensington 240-998-9990

Brooke Grove Retirement Village 301-637-8928

10540 Metropolitan Avenue Kensington, MD 20895 www.modenakensington.com Welcome Center: 3720 Farragut Ave., Suite 105, Kensington, MD 20895

18100 Slade School Road Sandy Spring, MD 20860 www.bfg.org

Excited to keep savoring all the best that life has to offer, but ready to be free from day-to-day concerns? Modena Reserve at Kensington, featuring Independent Living, Assisted Living and Memory Care, offers you an extraordinary blend of sophistication, excitement, beauty and convenience in a highly desirable location. Residents enjoy the highest standards in safety, engaging programs, exquisite cuisine, best-in-class amenities, innovative technology, exemplary service and an abundance of elegance. Join us for a Lunch & Learn on Wednesdays at noon in July to learn about our exclusive Estate Club benefits! RSVP by calling us at 240-998-9990. Live exceptional, every day, at Modena Reserve at Kensington.

This community hums with warm-hearted camaraderie and a zest for life shared by residents and staff alike. Experience all that makes assisted living at Brooke Grove extraordinary. Cozy, homelike dwellings with easy access to beautiful courtyards and walking paths. Caring staff trained in using memory support techniques, building independence and lifting self-esteem. Innovative LIFE® Enrichment Programming with meaningful activities and off-site adventures. Visit us to see why Brooke Grove Retirement Village is one of the most sought-after continuing care retirement communities in the state. Living here is simply different … because what surrounds you really matters.

INDEPENDENT LIVING COMMUNITY

ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITY

Falcons Landing 703-293-5054 20522 Falcons Landing Circle Potomac Falls, VA 20165 www.falconslanding.org Falcons Landing, a Life Plan Community, welcomes all officers whether retired or honorably discharged, from all branches of service, as well as federal employees of GS-14 and higher, to include spouses and surviving spouses. Falcons Landing is proud to present, The Terrace Home Apartments! 24 new units that fuse the best aspects of apartment and cottage living. Residents will enjoy generous square footage with social spaces to gather with neighbors. The Terrace Homes provide a fresh and exciting new take on senior living and are ideal for those that enjoy natural lighting, open floor plans, indoor/outdoor living, an active lifestyle and entertaining family and friends. Call 703-293-5054 to schedule your tour today!

LIFE PLAN COMMUNITY

The Residences at Thomas Circle 571-317-0437 1330 Massachusetts Avenue NW Washington DC 20005 ThomasCircleSeniorLiving.com Located in downtown Washington, D.C., The Residences at Thomas Circle provides exceptional senior living. With personalized care, delicious dining and a location just steps away from the finest monuments, museums and culture our country has to offer, it's no wonder we're the community of choice for so many seniors. It's a luxury lifestyle that's full of opportunities. With an on-site fitness center, outdoor pool, library, a salon and spa, and a rich variety of activities and hobby clubs, there's always something to enjoy. And we offer award-winning memory care with the option of fully furnished apartments. We create a safe, enriching community where seniors can live well, know they're safe, and maintain dignity and purpose.

Chesterbrook Residences 703-531-0781 2030 Westmoreland Street Falls Church, VA www.chesterbrookres.org Chesterbrook Residences has been named the Best of the Best Senior/Assisted Living Community by readers of the Sun Gazette. What makes Chesterbrook such a beloved senior living provider with families? Everything we do is driven by our commitment to the well-being of our residents! By providing excellent care, delicious meals, and engaging activities, we help our residents live a fulfilling, healthy life. We also offer 24-hour access to licensed nurses, visiting physicians, and on-site rehabilitation. Schedule your tour of Chesterbrook today – an award-winning assisted living community in Falls Church!

INDEPENDENT LIVING COMMUNITY

Emerson House 301-779-6196 5999 Emerson Street Bladensburg, MD 20710 Our community features bright onebedroom apartments in a nine-story elevator building for today’s active and independent seniors who are 62 or older. Emerson House is subsidized for low- to moderate-income households. Activities are yours to choose from: gardening, Bingo, Wii bowling league, movie night, parties, bus trips, exercise classes, learning to line dance — it’s all waiting for you and more! Emerson House offers an in-house Resident Service Coordinator to assist with finding helpful resources. Please call today for an appointment to tour our community or request an application; 301-779-6196 Monday-Friday from 8:30 to 5:00.

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REHABILITATION

J U L Y 2 0 2 1 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

INDEPENDENT LIVING COMMUNITY

Brooke Grove Retirement Village 301-637-8928

Covenant Village Senior Apartments 301-540-1162

18100 Slade School Road Sandy Spring, MD 20860 www.bfg.org Imagine an extraordinary staff and the best therapies and equipment—in a beautiful environment that rejuvenates and restores. Physical therapy spaces bathed in sunlight. The quiet comfort of a garden walk or relaxing massage. Imagine getting back to the activities that matter to you. Our new, state-of-the-art rehab addition at Brooke Grove Rehabilitation and Nursing Center offers innovative therapy services for seniors, including NeuroGym® Technologies mobility training, the Korebalance system and much more. Visit us to see why Brooke Grove Retirement Village is one of the most sought-after continuing-care retirement communities in the state. Rehab here is simply different… because what surrounds you really matters.

18889 Waring Station Road Germantown, MD 20874 www.qpmgmt.com

PERSONAL CARE/ASSISTED LIVING

Seabury at Springvale Terrace (301) 587-8717 8505 Springvale Road Silver Spring, MD 20910 SpringvaleTerraceApts.com

• Spacious 1 and 2 bedroom plans with washer/dryer in each apt. • Shuttle bus for shopping and local trips • On-site fitness, game, and craft rooms, movie theatre, library, beauty salon, and courtyard garden plots. It's about our residents, said Management staff, Debra and Shey. They always ensure that they have interesting and exciting things going on. Some of the fun includes: Garden Party Cookouts, Trips to Washington, DC to see the Cherry Blossoms, the Franciscan Monastery, and the National Zoo, Black Hills Pontoon Boat Ride, Low-Impact Fitness Classes, Resident Birthday Celebrations, Craft Classes and Potlucks. Also, many guest speakers are invited to speak to our residents on topics that are relevant to them.

ASSISTED LIVING & MEMORY CARE COMMUNITY

The Seneca 240-614-2800 55 W Gude Drive Rockville, MD 20850 www.senecarockville.com

Discover Seabury at Springvale Terrace inside and out. Our Assisted Living offers a price and lifestyle you will love, with personal care subsidies for those who qualify. Affordable value that can only be found at our community, providing personal care, exercise, music, a host of daily activities and social events. Starting at only $3,901/month including private apartment with private bathroom, three nutritious meals a day, medication administration, nurse oversight, housekeeping and laundry services. Come take a look at Springvale Terrace. Assisted Living Apartments are available now (Medicaid accepted). Call 301-587-0190 or email svtadmissions@seaburyresoources.org for info and to schedule a tour.

The Seneca, part of Silverstone & Watermark’s Élite Collection, is a brand-new assisted living and memory care community now open next to King Farm in Rockville, Maryland. This naturefocused community is redefining assisted living with high-end dining showcasing sustainable seafood and other Marylandinspired cuisine, a wellness-focused lifestyle, forward-thinking technology and attentive personal care. Surrounded by tall, lush trees, The Seneca is a peaceful oasis in an ideal suburban location. Among other world-class amenities, the tranquil Serenity Garden and meditative Labyrinth Walk offer the chance to connect with nature. Each memory care associate is a Certified Dementia Practitioner, trained extensively on caring for and engaging with residents suffering from memory loss.

INDEPENDENT LIVING COMMUNITY

LIFE PLAN COMMUNITY

The Virginian 703-259-6365 9229 Arlington Boulevard Fairfax, Virginia 22031 liveatthevirginian.com Located on a beautiful 32-acre wooded campus, just minutes from downtown Fairfax, The Virginian is the premier Independent Living community in the D.C. metro area, renowned for its exceptional healthcare and rewarding retirement lifestyle. Now, The Virginian is being totally reimagined from top to bottom to provide today's more active seniors with the area's most innovative and engaging independent living experience. With its beautiful new one and two-bedroom residences, four unique dining venues, breathtaking public spaces, on-campus spa, and more, The Virginian will seem more like an elegant resort than a typical senior living community. To learn more about all The Virginian has to offer, call today at (703) 259-6365.

Vinson Hall Retirement Community 703-536-4344 6251 Old Dominion Drive McLean, VA 22101 www.vinsonhall.org Welcome to Vinson Hall, an active, vibrant senior living community located in the beautiful heart of McLean, Virginia. Here you'll discover a tight-knit community with all the amenities you could ever want alongside a full continuum of care. From independent living, assisted living, memory care support, nursing care, rehabilitative care, to respite care, our team is here to provide our signature gold standard of service. Although we have had to make many adjustments for safety this past year, our residents are thrilled to once again be able to access a variety of our exciting in-house activities such as art classes, fitness programs and happy hour events! To find out more about our available apartments, call us at 703-506-4240.

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WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — J U L Y 2 0 2 1

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Plan ahead to pay for long-term care By Martha Steger Nancy Wright Beasley, a Virginia retiree, is years away from living in a retirement community or needing long-term care, but every year she funds a long-term care insurance policy. It’s not only a sound investment; it gives Beasley peace of mind. “My policy ensures I won’t become a financial burden on my children,” Beasley said. “As I age, the coverage gives assurance I’ll have my needs met as long as I live, since I bought a policy with lifetime benefits.” Most Americans over the age of 65 will need long-term care for daily activities such as dressing, bathing and eating. Relying on a spouse or family to help — especially in cases of chronic illness — often isn’t adequate. The median retirement savings of $126,000 for those aged 65 to 74 can’t cover the more than $50,000 annual cost of a home health care aide or the $100,000-plus price of a private room in a nursing home. And private insurance and Medicare don’t pay for assisted living or so-called “custodial” expenses. Fortunately, long-term care insurance presents a viable option. Paying a monthly premium now can ensure coverage in later years. As you prepare for your eventual longterm care needs, it is important to identify not only the best policy for you but also the ideal skilled nursing facility.

proves overwhelming, expert guidance is available: A local long-term care consulting company can help. Long-term care consultants will tour a facility community with the family. More importantly, they’re familiar with facilities that aren’t widely known or publicized, such as personal-care homes, which are licensed but are smaller than most clinical-nursing facilities. Linda Carruthers, with Long-Term Care Consultants in Richmond, advises anyone considering a facility seek the assistance of a professional who is usually independent of specific insurance policies and facilities but doesn’t necessarily charge consumers a fee. Two such consultants are Lisa Isbell, owner of Senior Care Authority, which covers the Fredericksburg to Williamsburg area of Virginia; and Jay L. Mann, owner of Amada Senior Care, with offices in Burke,

Richmond and Williamsburg, Virginia; Annapolis and Frederick, Maryland; and Lewes, Delaware.

Rating long-term care insurance policies While ratings exist for assisted-living and long-term care facilities, they’re nonexistent for insurance policies that might help pay for them. One way to research different policies is to hire a certified financial planner to help; the other is to compare policies on your own. “If you determine an insurance policy is the right solution … check the financial strength of the insurance company [via] ‘strength’ measures [A.M. Best, Standard & Poor’s, Moody’s], then check … their claim-paying history,” said Adam Rex, a certified financial planner with Cornerstone Financial Services.

As a starting point, Rex recommends the website aaltci.org for consolidated information on various insurance carriers. But the site can be biased, he points out, since it touts members of its organization, the American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance. “It pays to compare,” Rex said. “Indexes have found that rates for virtually identical coverage could vary by over 110 percent. The yearly savings can be substantial.” No insurance company will pay for assisted-living accommodations, but that doesn’t mean you can’t live in assisted living on your own dime and take advantage of some long-term-care insurance-policy provisions. As you research ways to pay for assisted living, it’s worth considering life insurance See LONG-TERM CARE, page B-16

IT’S VIRGINIAN THE

Useful websites that rate facilities The websites Medicare.gov and CMS.gov provide comparisons of nursing facilities based on annual evaluations. Visitors can search by location, type of facility (including dialysis centers and homehealth services), or the names and locations of facilities. (Note: Medicare regulates clinical-nursing facilities but not assisted-living centers. For those, go to the state’s department of social services website. In Virginia, for instance, go to dss.virginia.gov, and click on “Search for an Assisted-Living Facility.”) U.S. News & World Report offers helpful costs, ratings and reviews at health.usnews.com from residents and their loved ones as well as staff at skilled-nursing facilities. Its website redirects its visitors to many other sites, such as verywellhealth.com, for ratings. At each redirection, though, be aware of potential conflicts of interest. The site may receive a commission on the products recommended. “Third-party rankings [outside of CMS and CARF, the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities] vary greatly in their criteria and depth of knowledge of senior living communities and levels of living,” said Lindsay Hutter, spokesperson for Goodwin House, which has assisted-living and clinical-nursing facilities in Alexandria and Bailey’s Crossroads.

Get help finding the best facilities If researching facilities on your own

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J U L Y 2 0 2 1 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

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INDEPENDENT LIVING COMMUNITY

Riderwood Retirement Community 877-742-4390 3140 Graceﬁeld Road Silver Spring, MD 20904 Riderwood.com Three reasons to choose senior living at Riderwood Life at Silver Spring’s premier senior living community offers extraordinary benefits in uncertain times. 1. The size and strength to keep you safe – Riderwood is managed by Erickson Living®, a leader in senior living with 20 communities in eleven states. 2. The freedom to enjoy your retirement – At Riderwood, you’re free to live life on your terms while the dedicated staff takes care of the essentials. 3. The support of a caring community – Here, you gain a network of friends and neighbors, plus a caring staff including full-time doctors who specialize in senior health. Learn more. Call 1-877-742-4390 for your free brochure or to schedule your in-person or virtual visit.

INDEPENDENT LIVING COMMUNITY

Residences at Glenarden Hills 410-498-5502 3171 Roland Kenner Loop Glenarden, MD 20706 www.ResidencesatGlenardenHills.com We are now accepting applications to join the waitlist to live in Prince George's County's newest 55+ community! The brand new, affordable apartments at Residences at Glenarden Hills feature open floor plans with bright, oversized windows, modern kitchens with dishwasher, large closets, ceramic-tiled baths, outdoor patios and more. The vibrant community also boasts top-notch community amenities, such as a wellness room and fitness center, theater room, community clubhouse, ample outdoor space and on-site management suite. The community is thoughtfully designed to create a safe, welcoming and independent living experience for residents. Visit our website to learn more or call 410-498-5502 Monday through Friday!

INDEPENDENT & PERSONAL CARE COMMUNITIES

B’nai B’rith Homecrest House 301-244-3579 14508 Homecrest Road Silver Spring, MD 20906 www.homecresthouse.org Homecrest House is a non-profit, affordable, subsidized community neighboring Leisure World. Our community offers 2 senior living options, and residents may qualify for rent & service subsidies based on eligibility. EDWARDS PERSONAL CARE BUILDING offers: onsite 24 hour staff, daily meals, weekly housekeeping & laundry services, assistance with bathing & optional medication administration. HOMECREST INDEPENDENT LIVING offers: dinner meals, full calendar of activities & scheduled trips. Our Computer Lab, Fitness Center, Salon & Convenience Store are just a few of the amenities our residents enjoy. Contact Princetta at 301-244-3579 or marketing@homecresthouse.org for a personalized tour or visit us at www.homecresthouse.org.

Long-term care From page B-15 or an annuity with long-term-care benefits, which allows money not used for care to be left to heirs. A down payment is typically required. Your policy’s professional consultant can help you determine which type of policy best suits your needs.

Patience, planning ahead Once you have a long-term care policy, keep in mind that more is involved in filing claims than simply filling out insurance company’s forms. Paperwork is the individual policyholder’s burden: Carruthers said she sometimes had to fax forms to four different departments in the same agency. Patience is necessary. Be sure to give a copy of your LTC policy, along with a power-of-attorney and a medical directive, to a trusted family member or friend in case you can’t speak for

yourself. Appoint a medical coordinator (perhaps your primary-care physician), who can manage your care and assess what’s needed.

‘Prudent financial sense’ Long-term care is inevitable for most of us. Preparing in advance can make paying for care easier for everyone involved. According to Jesse Slome, director of the American Association of Long-Term Care Insurance, “It’s a 50-50 probability that someone getting long-term care insurance at age 65 will use their coverage. We insure our homes even though we know the risk of a house fire is far less than 50-50. “The risk of needing care as we age is significantly high … and having some protection in place makes prudent financial sense.” For more information about long-term care insurance policies, call (818) 597-3227 or visit aaltci.org.

BEACON BITS

July 22

WHAT IS MAIL ART? Have you heard of mail art? Learn all about it as part of the

Postal Museum’s Wine & Design series. Artist Chuck Welch will lead a discussion of mail art, and artist Jennie Hinchcliff will provide inspiration for participants to create their own. This free virtual event takes place Thurs., July 22 from 7 to 8 p.m.; registration is required. For more information, visit bit.ly/MailArtDesign. Email NPMPrograms@si.edu with questions.

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WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — J U L Y 2 0 2 1

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Considering an RV? Mistakes to avoid By Liz Weston Recreational vehicle sales are soaring, and the RV industry expects 2021 to be a record-breaking year. Dealerships say much of the demand is coming from firsttime buyers and others anxious to find a safer way to vacation during the pandemic. As any RV owner will tell you, though, buying a motorhome, camper or trailer is a complex process that requires a ton of decisions. The more choices you make, the more opportunities you have to make mistakes, especially when you’re a novice. We had some great family camping experiences in the motorhome we owned from 2011 to 2017, and we learned a lot. If you’re considering your first RV, here are some errors to avoid.

Mistake No. 1: Assuming you’ll save money on travel If you want to make a motorhome owner laugh, say something silly like, “I bet you save a ton of money on hotels!” Well, maybe. But new motorhomes typically cost $60,000 to $500,000, according to the RV Industry Association (RVIA). Add in the cost of gas for a vehicle that gets 6 to 10 miles per gallon, plus insurance, maintenance and the inevitable repairs. Campground fees typically run $25 to $80 a night. You may need to pay for storage if you

can’t park the rig at your house, since many cities limit the time that RVs can be parked on the street. Storage can cost $30 to $450 a month, depending on whether it’s outdoors or indoors, heated or unheated, near a major city or out in the boonies. Campers and trailers can be more economical — as long as you already own the truck or SUV you need to haul them. Popup trailers and truck campers start at around $6,000, according to the RVIA. Travel trailers usually range from $6,000 to $55,000, while fifth-wheel trailers range from $18,000 to $160,000. If you need a loan, you may pay a lot of interest over time because RV loans often stretch for 10, 15 or even 20 years. Borrowing $40,000 for 15 years will cost you nearly $19,000 in interest, even at a reasonable rate (for RV loans) of 5.5%. Add it all up, and you could spend a lot of time in some pretty nice hotels for what you’ll pay camping in an RV. There are definitely ways to spend less. If you’re shelling out for a new rig, though, don’t kid yourself that you’re vacationing on the cheap.

owner take that big depreciation hit can save you a lot of money. For example, RV Trader — one of the biggest RV marketplaces — recently advertised a 2021 Winnebago Navion 24D for sale in California with a list price close to $160,000. The 2019 version, with just 5,200 miles, was listed for $120,000. We spent a lot less, about $16,000, buying a 13-year-old motorhome with less than 8,000 miles on the odometer. We spent $7,000 on maintenance and repairs over six years, plus $1,200 to replace its six tires. You may worry that a used RV will be a money pit, and that could be true. But unlike cars, RVs often aren’t trouble-free even when they’re new. There may be leaks, rattles and manufacturing defects. The first owner may spot and fix the worst problems before passing the RV on to you. (You’ll still want a seasoned mechanic at a good dealership to inspect any used rig before buying.) Another tip: Spend some time researching dealerships and their service departments — some are notorious for treating customers badly and overcharging on repairs. Check out online reviews and talk to experienced RV owners.

Mistake No. 3: Rushing your purchase Making a big purchase in haste is rarely a good idea, but you could really regret joining the stampede to buy an RV right now. Normally, you can negotiate a discount of 20% or more off a new RV’s sticker price. But the pandemic slowed production at factories just as demand surged over travel safety concerns. The result is a seller’s market with limited inventories at dealerships. That means a lot less wiggle room on prices for new and used rigs. A year or two of high demand is often followed by a lull, though, so consider renting an RV now and buying after things calm down. Renting first is a good idea in any case, because it gives you a chance to try different types of RVs and to see if this kind of camping is for you. (We ultimately decided we preferred national park lodges and nice hotels.) We b s i t e s i n c l u d i n g O u t d o o r s y, RVShare.com and Cruise America offer a wide variety of rental options, with motorhome prices typically starting around $100 a night. —AP/NerdWallet

Mistake No. 2: Buying new As with cars, RVs lose a considerable amount of value the second they’re driven off the dealership lot. Letting the first

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B-19

Good ways to pare down your possessions By Jim Mille Dear Savvy Senior, What tips can you offer for downsizing? I would like to relocate but need to get rid of a lot of personal possessions before we can move. — Overwhelmed Willa Dear Willa, The process of weeding through a house full of stuff and parting with old possessions is difficult and overwhelming for most people. A good place to start is to see if your kids, grandkids or other family members would like any of your unused possessions. Whatever they don’t want, here are a few tips and services that may help you downsize.

Sell it all Selling your stuff is one way to get rid of your possessions and pad your pocketbook at the same time. Consignment shops are good for selling old clothing, household furnishings and decorative items — they typically keep 30% to 40% of the sale price. A good old-fashioned garage sale is another option, or for large-scale downsizing you could hire an estate sale company to come in and sell your items. See EstateSales.net and EstateSales.org to locate options in your area. Selling online is also a great option and opens you up to a wider audience. OfferUp

(OfferUp.com), Facebook Marketplace (Facebook.com/marketplace), Craigslist (Craigslist.org) and the CPlus for Craigslist app (Yanflex.com) are great options for selling locally, which can eliminate the packing and shipping costs and hassle.

Junk-King (Junk-King.com, 1-888-888-5865) to come in and haul it off for a moderate fee. Another disposal option is Bagster (TheBagster.com, 1-877-789-2247) by Waste Management. This is a trash bag that you purchase for around $30, fill it to a limit of 3,300 pounds and schedule a pick-

up, which costs anywhere between $100 and $300, depending on your area. Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of The Savvy Senior book.

Donate it If you itemize on your tax returns, donating your belongings to charitable organizations is another way to downsize and get a tax deduction. The Salvation Army (SAtruck.org, 1-800-728-7825) will actually come to your house and pick up a variety of household items, including furnishings and clothing. Goodwill (Goodwill.org) is another good option to donate to, but they don’t offer pickup services. If your deductions exceed $500, you’ll need to file Form 8283, “Noncash Charitable Contributions.” You’ll also need a receipt from the organization for every batch of items you donate and will need to create an itemized list of the items donated.

Toss it If you have a lot of junk you want to get rid of, contact your municipal trash service to see if they provide bulk curbside pickup services. Or, depending on where you live, you could hire a company like 1-800-GotJunk (1800gotjunk.com, 1-800-468-5865) or

ASSISTED LIVING & MEMORY CARE COMMUNITY

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WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — J U L Y 2 0 2 1

DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE By Laura Newland, Director D.C. Department of Aging and Community Living Just two months ago, Mayor Muriel Bowser presented her Fiscal Year 2022 (FY22) Budget and Financial Plan to the DC Council – a budget that is guided by equity. The Mayor’s budget is committed to investing in what we all know will be the pillars of equitable recovery from the financial impacts we all felt from the COVID-19 pandemic. The $17.5 billion budget is called the Fair Shot Budget, providing relief, recovery, and growth opportunities to all residents in all eight wards, including our city’s older residents, adults with disabilities, and caregivers. And as we continue to recover as a city, I can assure you that this year’s budget is committed to building a more equitable Washington, DC, giving more and more Washingtonians the fair shot needed to thrive. Mayor Bowser’s Fiscal Year 2022 Fair Shot Budget is one that honors the sacrifices of our residents during COVID-19 by setting our community up for a strong recovery. A strong economic recovery. And a strong recovery of our community’s physical and mental health. With this budget, we are doubling down on our commitment to building back better starting with the foundation of a more equitable Washington, DC. Our response over the past year and a half has been unprecedented, and we have much to be proud of. We have worked together as a community to: • Deliver more than 2 million meals to more than 6,600 older adults since the start of the Public Health Emergency; • Launch a senior tech program providing iPads and technical support to 500 qualifying older district residents; • Launch a Call & Talk line currently engaging close to 100 residents with friendly calls and conversations throughout the public health emergency; • Host two Virtual Mayor’s Annual Senior Symposiums on Channel 16, which included a special meal delivery for more than 800 seniors in FY20 and 900 seniors in FY21; and • Host the first ever Virtual Ms. Senior DC, where Ward 5 resident, Ms. Vanella Crawford was crowned queen and will represent us on the national stage in October! With this Fiscal Year 2022 budget, we will continue a robust COVID-19 response that will help us protect residents and keep our community safe. Just last month, I testified before Councilmember Anita See DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE, page 20

A New Queen is Here – Congratulations Ms. Vanella Crawford

Ms. Senior DC Pageant 2021 Name of contestants L to R: Janice Talley Trent, Teresa Anne Smith, Vene’ La Gon, Ann Rollins, Annetta Hampton Nicholas, Vanella Crawford, LaVerene Adams, Elynore Hooker Herron This year, DACL, in partnership with Seabury Resources for Aging and the DC Seniors Cameo Club, hosted the first ever virtual Ms. Senior DC pageant. Eight, talented District women competed for the title of Ms. Senior DC 2021, sharing their talents and philosophy of life with the Dis-

trict. On Sunday, June 27, Ward 5 resident, Ms. Vanella Crawford was crowned DC’s newest queen! Congratulations to Ms. Crawford and all of this year’s contestants. Thank you for having the courage to show all of us how you live boldly. To watch the full pageant, please visit dacl.dc.gov.

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

Director Laura Newland

Editor DACL External Affairs

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Living Boldly

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Congratulations to our Welcome Back Makeover Contest Winner, Model Cities! In honor of reopening in person programming and PRIDE Month, DACL hosted a “Welcome Back Makeover Contest: Better Together! Five of our senior wellness centers worked with participants to decorate the entrance, parking lot, and other exterior, public-facing area to create a warm, inclusive, and fabulous

Director’s message From page 19

Bonds and the Committee on Housing and Executive Administration, sharing our agency’s FY22 budgetary decisions and what this means for you. In FY22, you can expect more engaging activities closer to where you are, whether it’s through our senior socialization hubs, senior wellness centers, virtual activities at home, or a combination — there will be more opportunities to get out and engage with one another as we all get reacquainted after more than a year of social distancing. Operationally, DACL will be making it easier for you to connect with the services and supports you need by bringing in our intake, assessment, and case management all in one place. We are working towards a system that will be easier for you and will connect seamlessly to our entire portfolio of services. If you have more complex needs, our multi-disciplinary approach will make it quicker for you to get the services and supports you need. Because that’s what you deserve. As the Mayor mentioned, this budget is all about setting up our communities for a strong recovery post-COVID and these investments will push us towards a more equitable recovery in all eight wards. For more information about the Mayor’s Fair Shot budget, please visit budget.dc.gov. To view my complete budget testimony, please visit dacl.dc.gov. — Laura Newlands

destination. Thanks to the support of our LGBTQ Advisory Committee, a winner was selected. Congratulations to the seniors of the Model Cities Senior Wellness Center and thank you to all of our wellness centers for participating. We’ll continue to ensure our spaces promote joy, visibility, and PRIDE all year long.

Congratulations to our 2021 Pride Decoration Winners – Model Cities!

In Case You Missed It – Thanks for attending our Older Americans Month Drive Up Celebrations! Older Americans Month was truly a celebration! DACL had a wonderful time celebrating and bringing joy to District seniors. To view photos from the Drive Up Celebrations and other Older Americans Month events, please visit dacl.dc.gov and click on photo gallery.

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WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — J U L Y 2 0 2 1

Money

Law &

Have you heard the scam about the “free” ancestry test? See story on page 22.

Nine important money numbers to know By Liz Weston Your doctor needs to know certain numbers to judge your physical health, such as your weight, blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Similarly, you need to know certain numbers to monitor your own financial health, including these:

After-tax income and ‘must-have’ expenses Your after-tax income is your gross income minus the taxes you pay (federal, state and local income taxes, plus Social Security and Medicare taxes). If you get a steady paycheck, you can use your latest pay stub to calculate this figure. Otherwise, check your most recent tax return. Divide your after-tax income by the number of hours you worked to earn it. That gives you a rough idea of how much time you’re trading when you buy something. For example, if you make $20 an hour after tax and something costs $100, you have to work five hours to afford it. Knowing that figure can help you make more conscious money decisions. Your after-tax income also is the basis for the 50/30/20 budget, a spending plan that helps you balance current expenses, debt payments and savings. That budget suggests limiting your essential or must-have expenses — shelter, utilities, transportation, food, insurance,

minimum loan payments and child care needed to work — to 50% of after-tax income. Wants, such as vacations and dining out, make up 30%. That leaves 20% for savings and extra debt payments. Capping must-haves can help you survive a job loss or other financial setback. You also can use the limits to determine if you can afford a new loan payment. If the payment pushes your must-haves over the 50% mark, the answer may be no.

Lifetime income and net worth You can access your Social Security statement, including your lifetime earnings history, by signing up at socialsecurity.gov/myaccount. Add up your annual earnings, plus any other income you’ve received such as gifts, inheritances, investment income, pensions, under-the-table earnings or government benefits. (Estimates are fine.) Now, calculate your net worth by subtracting what you owe (your debts, including loans, credit card debts and mortgages) from what you own (your assets, such as your home, retirement accounts, investments and savings). Compare your net worth to your lifetime income to see what you’ve done with the money that came into your hands. There’s no objective scoring system. Like the hourly wage figure, this exercise is meant to make you more aware of what you do with

your money. If you think you should have more to show for the money you’ve received, consider trying to save more of your income.

Full retirement age, expected benefit Your full retirement age is the age at which you are entitled to 100% of the Social Security benefits you’ve earned. If you apply for benefits before that age, your checks will be permanently reduced. If you delay your application until after full retirement age, you can qualify for delayed retirement credits that boost your benefit by 8% each year until 70 years old, when benefits max out. The full retirement age has gradually been increasing. For those born 1943 through 1954, your full retirement age was 66. After that, full retirement age increases by two months each year: it’s 66 and two months for people born in 1955; 66 and four months for people born in 1956, and so on. The full retirement age is 67 for people born in 1960 and later. To better plan for retirement, you should have some idea of how much you can expect from Social Security. You’ll find estimated benefits in your Social Security statement. (While Social Security is facing a shortfall, the system will still collect enough taxes to pay at least 75% of promised benefits even if Congress doesn’t act to shore up its finances.)

Retirement savings rate How much of your income are you saving for retirement? Is your savings plan likely to let you retire when you want? (An online retirement calculator can give you a ballpark figure.) Anything you can do to close this gap may help you have a more comfortable retirement.

Credit scores and debt-toincome ratio You’ll have a better idea of how lenders view your credit applications if you know your credit scores and debt-to-income ratio. (Good credit also can save you money in myriad ways, from interest payments to insurance premiums.) Monitoring at least one of your scores can allow you to see your progress in building credit and alert you to problems, such as identity theft. To calculate your debt-to-income ratio, combine your monthly debt payments with your current rent or mortgage payment and compare that with your monthly income. A debt-to-income ratio of 36% or less is considered good by most lenders. A ratio over 50% could make it difficult to get approved for new loans. If your ratio is in between those two points, paying off some of your debt could help you qualify for the loans you want (and help you sleep easier at night). —AP/NerdWallet

Reasons to convert IRAs to Roths in 2021 By Elliot Raphaelson vert your traditional IRA to a Roth account, Recently, IRA expert Ed Slott (irahelp.com) you will be providing a significant advantage pointed out the advantages of to your future beneficiaries. Roth conversions in light of Since it is likely that your President Biden’s tax propostax rates will increase in the als. I’ll discuss some reasons future, it would be to your adyou should consider such a vantage, as well as that of fuconversion. ture beneficiaries, to do a Roth For high income tax-payers, conversion in the near future it is likely that marginal tax rather than later. rates will not be reduced, and it In addition, if you initiate a is likely that marginal tax rates Roth conversion in the near fuwill increase in the future. ture, it is less likely that any tax THE SAVINGS The SECURE Act eliminated reform will be retroactive to GAME the stretch IRA for most nonJanuary 1, 2021. Any changes By Elliot Raphaelson spouse beneficiaries. These in the tax code will most likely beneficiaries will be able to acbe effective in 2022. cumulate funds in a Roth IRA for 10 years on There are three tax benefits associated a tax-free basis. Accordingly, if you do con- with a conversion in 2021:

1. By converting now, you are locking in today’s tax rates, which are much lower than previous tax rates. 2. A conversion now will lock in a zero percent tax rate on the funds in the account for the rest of your life and your spouse’s life, and for ten years for subsequent beneficiaries. Roth owners do not have minimum distribution requirements, and your surviving spouse also will not have any minimum distribution requirements. So, as long as there is no need to withdraw funds from these accounts, the accounts will continue to increase tax free. 3. Future taxes will be reduced because the funds converted will lower IRA balances subject to required minimum distributions, and accordingly will lower your taxes. It is true that, in the year of the conver-

sion, there would be a tax increase. However, avoiding income taxes now is shortsighted, and in the long run the advantages of converting now outweigh the disadvantages of paying an increased tax in the year of the conversion. [Ed. Note: Consider whether you have liquid assets available to pay the extra tax. If you have to liquidate some good investments to pay the current tax, that will reduce your future earning power.] Currently, the estate and gift tax exemption is $11.7 million ($23.4 million for a married couple). However, it is possible that exemption can be reduced, which would have an adverse effect for large estates. The exemption could be reduced to See ROTH, page 23

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New Medicare con: ‘free’ genetic test kits By Better Business Bureau of Virginia If you are on Medicare, watch out for a resurgence of this scam. Scammers are claiming to offer “free” genetic testing kits that allegedly screen for heart conditions or cancer. It’s really a ruse to steal your Medicare information for fraudulent billing and/or identity theft.

How the scam works You get a call from someone claiming to be from Medicare or an official-sounding organization (one victim reported to BBB Scam Tracker that they received a call from “the Cardiac Test Center”). The caller claims to be providing free genetic testing kits. All you need to do is agree to receive a kit in the mail, swab your

cheek, and return the vial. The test will tell you if you have a genetic predisposition to heart disease, cancer, or another common condition. The caller insists that the test will be totally covered by Medicare. This sounds like a useful (and free) test, so you agree. Of course, there’s a catch! Before the company can mail your kit, they need your Medicare ID number and a lot of personal information. Targets of this scam report being asked extensive questions about their health, such as their family medical history and previous diagnoses. One victim reported, “They kept asking me about my own history and family memSee MEDICARE CON, page 24

BEACON BITS

Aug. 10

ART AFTER WORDS The National Portrait Gallery and D.C. Public Library host a virtual program that explores public remembrance and the history of

Washington, D.C. through analysis of a portrait of Malcolm X and the book The

Autobiography of Malcolm X by Alex Haley. This event takes place Tues., Aug. 10 at 5:30 p.m. For more information and to register, visit dclibrary.org/node/68055. Call (202) 727-0321 with questions.

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Law & Money

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — J U L Y 2 0 2 1

Five ideas can shape your retirement plan By Anthony Landi Stashing away money for retirement is both smart and necessary to increase the odds that you will be financially secure once your working career comes to an end. But the act of saving money is not in itself a retirement plan. You also need to be intentional in establishing how much money you will need, when and how you will spend it, how taxes might affect you and a host of other issues. Let’s look at five key areas you should think about as you carefully produce a retirement plan that can serve you well when you finally take that step into your postworking years. 1. Income distribution A top concern among retirees is running out of money, so it’s critical to take steps to make your money last. But how do you do that, especially now that the oncepopular 4% rule is falling out of favor in some quarters? Dr. David Babbel, professor of finance at the Wharton School, puts it this way: “If you have a stock portfolio and withdraw a fixed amount per year, such as the standard rule of 4% plus inflation, you have a 90% chance of running out of money in retirement.” While it would be nice to think a magicbullet investment exists that could fix this problem, there isn’t one. That ideal investment would be safe, liquid and would show strong growth. Investments typically will

do some combination of two of those, but no investment will do all three. One of the most effective ways to make your money last is to separate your investments into different asset classes to accomplish different goals. This means you would set aside, into income-producing vehicles, the lowest amount necessary to produce the monthly income you need above and beyond Social Security and pensions. You would also have an emergency fund of at least six to 12 months plus any known upcoming big expenses. And the rest of your money would be in a growth portfolio to hedge against inflation. 2. Tax mitigation plan The IRS doesn’t lose interest in you when you reach retirement; in fact, a portion of your Social Security may be taxable, depending on how much other income you have. Therefore, it’s important to continue to find ways to reduce your tax bill. Instead of micro tax planning, you need macro tax planning — focusing on the big picture of what your tax-deferred accounts are going to cost you over your lifetime. Explore how each of your investments is taxed, and create a written plan for the most tax-efficient way of withdrawing money from accounts in retirement. 3. Readjust your portfolio for retirement needs As you near and enter retirement, your goal is no longer to grow your money but to hang on to what you have. The time has

Roth

essentially a way to make a gift that isn’t categorized as a gift. Moreover, if you reside in a state that has lower estate tax limits than the federal regulations, there would be an additional advantage. The bottom line is that there are many long-term advantages associated with a Roth conversion that outweigh the shortterm disadvantage of the additional tax. Elliot Raphaelson welcomes your questions and comments at raphelliot@gmail.com. © 2021 Elliot Raphaelson. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

From page 21 as low as $3.5 million. While Roth assets are included in your estate, converting now would reduce the estate value, because of the tax paid. The result would be a reduced estate tax, and a larger net estate for your beneficiaries. Paying the tax associated with a conversion now does not count as a gift for gift or estate tax purposes. The result would be that, even if the gift and estate tax exemption is lowered, the conversion to a Roth is

arrived to begin shifting your portfolio into more conservative investments. This might also be a good time to reconsider which financial professional you are working with. Some advisers are more focused on accumulation — piling up as much money as possible for you — while others are more skilled at income planning, making sure that the money you accumulate lasts. 4. Healthcare planning Both healthcare and long-term care costs can eat away at your savings. It’s especially important for retirees to know the complex ins and outs of Medicare, for which you become eligible at age 65. For example, if you don’t enroll in Medicare during your initial enrollment period, you

could face premium penalties. Also, it’s important to know that Medicare doesn’t cover everything, and one thing it doesn’t cover is long-term care. You will need another plan — savings, long-term care insurance, or other alternatives — to deal with that. Maybe you will never need long-term care, but the odds say you will. Someone who turns 65 today has a 70% chance of needing some type of long-term care services at some point. 5. Estate planning None of us likes to dwell on this, but eventually our lives come to an end. It’s vital to have a plan in place so that the right assets See RETIREMENT PLAN, page 24

The Financial Navigators Program helps District residents deal with the financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Trained Navigators help residents to:

) Prioritize daily living expenses like housing, food and insurance ) Maximize income with referrals to benefit eligibility services, emergency cash assistance and emergency loans ) Manage debt ) Avoid predatory scams ) Budget for future loss of income

Make an appointment today! p: 202-231-7908 | e: fn@upo.org w: finnav.org/interest-dc Financial Navigators are not long-term counselors and cannot provide direct financial assistance.

disb.dc.gov/fnp

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Medicare con From page 22 bers going back to their grandparents. I finally said my father died from a stroke, and that seemed to qualify me. At that point, they verified my address — they already had it. Then they asked for information off my Medicare card, and I hung up.” As always, there are several variations

of this con. Previous versions involved scammers going door-to-door or setting up tables at health fairs. Con artists may even provide gift cards or other giveaways in exchange for your participation. While genetic testing is a legitimate service — some victims do actually receive a genetic testing kit — the scammers are trying to commit fraud by billing Medicare for the unnecessary tests.

BEACON BITS

July 26

SLEEPER AGENT

In this free virtual event, Spy Museum curator Andrew Hammond talks to Ann Hagedorn, author of Sleeper Agent: The Atomic Spy in America Who Got Away, about George Koval, the only Soviet military spy with security clearance in the atomic bomb project. This event takes place Mon., July 26 at noon. For more information and to register, visit bit.ly/SleeperAgent. Call (202) 393-7798 with questions.

J U L Y 2 0 2 1 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

For the victims, these cons can lead to medical identity theft and, in some instances, a bill for thousands of dollars. Consumers should always consult with their primary care doctor before agreeing to tests.

How to protect yourself Be wary of any lab tests at senior centers, health fairs, or in your home. Be suspicious of anyone claiming that genetic tests and cancer screenings are “free” or “covered by Medicare.” If a product or test is truly “free,” you will not have to provide your Medicare number. Don’t share your Medicare number. If anyone other than your physician’s office requests your Medicare information, do not provide it. Also, protect your Medicare card by keeping it in a safe place (not your wallet). Do not trust a name or phone number. Con artists often use official-sounding names or appear to be calling from a government agency or related area code.

Medicare will never call you to confirm your personal information, your Medicare number, or ask questions about your personal health. Report Medicare fraud. If you think you are a victim of Medicare fraud, be sure to report it. Go to Medicare.gov to get started. There you can read more about healthcare scams — including the Medicare back brace scam and durable medical equipment fraud — and how to protect yourself from Medicare fraud. If you’ve spotted a scam (whether or not you’ve lost money), report it to BBB.org/ScamTracker. Your report can help others avoid falling victim to scams. BBB is a nonprofit organization was established in 1954 to advance responsible, honest, and ethical business practices and to promote customer confidence through self-regulation of business. Core services of BBB include business profiles, dispute resolution, truth-in advertising, scam warnings, consumer and business education and charity review.

Retirement plan From page 23

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get left to the right people in the right way. “Having a properly crafted estate plan can assist your family in avoiding the substantial expense of the lengthy probate or guardianship proceedings,” said Tanya Bell, an estate-planning attorney in Florida. “One of the biggest problems we see is that many people don’t ever fund their trusts.” When you fund a trust, you transfer ownership of assets from you to your trust. If that doesn’t happen, your beneficiaries will end up in probate, something you likely sought to avoid by setting up the trust. Certainly, creating a retirement plan that covers all the bases can be complicated, so consider conferring with a financial professional who understands the best strategies for making your money last. You don’t want all those years of investing and saving to go to waste. Ronnie Blair contributed to this article. © 2021 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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Travel

Leisure &

Oysters, ponies and wildlife inhabit Virginia’s Eastern Shore. See story on page 27.

Many wows await Yosemite Park visitors

Highlights of the park Given the size of Yosemite, and the fact that most people visit for a relatively short

time, it’s challenging to take in all that the park has to offer. Several attractions appear on most people’s “must see” list. Yosemite Valley is the natural backbone of the park, an almost mile-deep trough carved out by Ice Age glaciers. The Merced River meanders through the valley floor, while upstream, its powerful Vernal Falls and Nevada Falls are fed by melting snow. Hiking trails range from short and flat to long and challenging. One alternative is the paved one-mile Mirror Lake Trail along the valley floor, which offers outstanding close-up views of Half Dome and other features. One site I came upon provides a view of a microcosm of the best landmarks in Yosemite. Glacier Point, and adjacent Washburn Point, overlook Yosemite Valley, waterfalls, and Half Dome and Clouds Rest, two massive granite formations. Half Dome is just that, a three-sided cupula with one sheer face that looks as if it has been sliced off by a giant knife. The tallest of eight other high peaks visible from Glacier Point is Mount Hoffman, which tops off at 10,850 feet. An hour south of Glacier Point, Mariposa Grove is the largest cluster of Giant Sequoias in the park, home to some 500 towering trees. Most noteworthy are the Grizzly Giant, which has grown to a lofty height of 210 feet during its estimated 1,900-to-2,400year lifetime, and the California Tunnel

PHOTO BY MIKE MCBEY

By Victor Block Following the hairpin-curvy road that snakes through Yosemite National Park, every turn elicited another “wow” moment. It was challenging to decide which view was best: dramatic overlooks across deep gorges, soaring mountains or some of the highest waterfalls in the country? Suddenly, I found the answer. I spotted several people pointing binoculars at a cliff rising straight up from the valley floor, peering intently at — what? It took me several minutes to pinpoint tiny dots of color on the precipice. Only after asking did I realize they were people climbing that seemingly insurmountable monolith, the massive 3,000-foot-tall granite formation known as El Capitan. Wondering why anyone would take on such a challenge, I concluded that this colossal rock demonstrates why the word “big” is so apt when describing Yosemite National Park. For starters, Yosemite sprawls over four California counties and is roughly the size of Rhode Island. Ranging in elevation from about 2,000 to more than 13,000 feet, the park supports a diversity of animal and plant life in vast valleys, clear lakes and rolling meadows, glaciers and groves of towering sequoias.

PHOTO BY BRYCE EDWARDS

The Ahwahnee, Yosemite National Park’s upscale hotel, opened in 1927 and has hosted celebrities, royals and presidents

For a dramatic view of Half Dome, the iconic granite dome that rises 5,000 feet above Yosemite Valley, visitors park at Glacier Point overlook.

Tree, which in 1895 was cut to allow vehicles to drive through it and retains that original opening in its trunk.

Off the beaten path I also found worthwhile stops at interesting places that some people might miss in their rush to take in the park’s major sights. The little Yosemite Chapel, for instance, has been in continuous use since 1879 and offers a spectacular view of Yosemite Falls. For those with an interest in history, the outdoor Pioneer Yosemite History Center, located just outside the park, displays structures that had important roles in the park. One, a covered bridge erected in 1857 from timbers that still have its builders’ original markings, was once used by all Yosemitebound traffic. Another, a Wells Fargo Office, operated as a stagecoach terminal and telegraph agency. A blacksmith shop was once the place to replace lost horseshoes and repair damaged stage coaches. And if you wander over to a nearby cemetery, you’ll find intriguing headstones with nondescript identifications like “Pioneer Settler” and “Frenchman.” The Pioneer Yosemite History Center is just one of many places near Yosemite that enhance a visit to the area. A number of attractions are grouped in Madera County, which provides easy access to the southern

entrance into Yosemite. From ancient fossils to Native American culture to gold miners, there’s something to interest everyone. Nearly 800,000 years ago, wooly mammoths, giant sloths and camels lived in what now is California. Prehistoric rivers washed some of their bones to a low-lying area, where they have been uncovered and are displayed at the Fossil Discovery Center. The Sierra Mono Museum documents the Native Americans who lived in presentday Yosemite nearly 4,000 years ago. By the late 18th century, most of the region was populated by members of Miwok tribes and later by others, while Mono people occupied a large swath of territory nearby. Exhibits include tools, baskets, ceremonial items and intricate bead craft. Miners, lumberjacks and ranchers were next to arrive, and to change the land forever. Discovery of gold in 1848 set off an influx of people into the territory. By the time the Gold Rush ended seven years later, California had become a state, the Native American population had been largely decimated, towns were established, and farmers and ranchers arrived to feed the new residents. The towns of Fine Gold and Coarsegold got their names from the precious metal See YOSEMITE, page 26

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Yosemite From page 25 found nearby, and you’ll find information about mining at the Coarsegold Historical Society and Museum. It’s located on property that was a horse-drawn freight wagon station,

J U L Y 2 0 2 1 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

and the original adobe building is still in use. With authentic Indian teepees, grinding stones, mining exhibits, another blacksmith shop and other outbuildings, this little gem of a museum can transport visitors back to earlier times. Finally, there’s the Fresno Flats Historic

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Village, which captures the flavor of 19thcentury life of settlers. Visitors can explore two fully furnished homes, one-room school houses, a jail and a log cabin which once sat along a stagecoach road. These and other remnants of America’s pioneer history would be reason enough to visit the area. Throw in some of the most magnificent natural settings anywhere, and it’s no wonder that Yosemite National Park and its surrounding area are included on many a bucket list.

If you go Most people who visit Yosemite go there May to October, so a fall or spring trip can avoid the biggest crowds. Fall color, winter snow and spring flowers add their own seasonal beauty. The national park is about a four-hour drive from both San Francisco and Sacramento. A good way to see the park is by tour bus. Guided tours hit the high spots and avoid the hassles of driving and seeking limited parking space. Accommodations within Yosemite National Park, which range from the luxurious Ahwahnee Hotel to canvas-walled tent cabins, often are reserved well in advance.

I stayed just outside the park’s south entrance at the Sierra Sky Ranch, which dates to 1875 and was the area’s first working cattle spread. Log walls and stone fireplaces are among touches that retain the feel of the Old West. Room rates begin at $120 (sierraskyranch.com). As for dining, the Forks Restaurant overlooking Bass Lake is a throwback to times gone by, with prices to match. Chicken fried steak ($15) and a triple-decker club sandwich ($12) will leave room to enjoy ice cream pie, sundaes and other fountain specialties (theforksresort.com). In contrast, the Elderberry House, ensconced in a French-style chateau, should be reserved for a special occasion. The sophisticated décor and impeccable service come at a price of $80 for a prix fixe threecourse meal. My free-range lamb was perfectly prepared, and the melt-in-yourmouth espresso panna cotta provided the perfect ending to a memorable meal (elderberryhouse.com). For more information about visiting Yosemite National Park, go to nps.gov/yose. For information about exploring Yosemite’s southern gateway communities in Madera County, visit yosemitethisyear.com.

BEACON BITS

July 11

SETH KIBEL QUINTET

July 16

VETS WRITING CIRCLE

The Potomac River Jazz Club invites you to attend the Seth Kibel Quintet performance of jazz, swing and more at the Knights of Columbus Rosensteel Hall at 9707 Rosensteel Ave. , Silver Spring, MD. This event takes place Sun., July 11 from 2 to 4 p.m. General admission is $25 ($22.50 in advance); youth and students are free. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit prjc.org/prjcevents.html.

If you’re a veteran, consider writing about your experience. Every third Friday, a group of veterans meets to learn about and try memoir writing. “More Than Words: Veteran’s Writing Circle” is hosted by D.C. library staff and local author and veteran Nick Mann. Writing exercises will be provided. At this time, all meetings will occur online. The next meeting takes place on Fri., July 16 at noon. Contact Jo Stallworth at adultservices.dcpl@dc.gov to register to attend.

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Leisure & Travel

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — J U L Y 2 0 2 1

Go to unwind on Virginia’s Eastern Shore

Quiet beaches To native Americans, “Chincoteague” meant “beautiful and across the water.” Reaching Chincoteague Island requires driving across a five-mile causeway,

flanked by water y marshes alive with foraging egrets and swirling, laughing gulls. Misty the wild pony is likely the Eastern Shore’s most renowned notable, made famous by Marguerite Henry’s 1947 book, Misty of Chincoteague. Misty’s hoofs are imprinted in the sidewalk fronting the 1945 Island Theatre, where the movie had one of two world premieres (the other was in Hollywood). Every July, the town of 3,000 explodes with the 16-day volunteer firemen’s carnival, which ends in the annual pony swim and auction to keep the herd at a sustainable 150. Chincoteague (insiders pronounce it “Shink-a-tig,” and others call the smalltown beach the “anti-Ocean City”) is easy to stroll and has plenty of fishing and wildlife outings for hire. If you’d rather spend the day at the ocean, pick up a fresh catch at a local market or restaurant, many of which specialize in seafood. The 48th annual Chincoteague Oyster Festival will celebrate the peninsula’s piscine bounty on October 9. At this typically sold-out event, guests can snarf up oysters raw, steamed, fried and frittered, accompanied by hush puppies and clam fritters. Throughout the year, watch rockets rise

By Glenda C. Booth With two national wildlife refuges, a national seashore, one state park and three state wildlife management areas, Virginia’s Eastern Shore is “nature untamed,” wrote local author Kirk Mariner. The state’s Eastern Shore stretches 70 miles from Maryland to the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel. It is flanked by the Atlantic Ocean on the east (“seaside”) and the Chesapeake Bay (“bayside”) on the west. Fully experiencing the Eastern Shore requires branching off Route 13, which bisects the region, and exploring the small towns, vegetable stands, bustling wharfs, quiet coves and friendly mom-and-pop stores. Tucked away are inviting hamlets with names like Wachapreague, Pungoteague, Onancock, Machipongo, Oyster, Nassawadox and Horsey. This landscape of vast saltmarshes, mudflats, beaches, inlets, creeks, hummocks and maritime shrub thickets and forests is a birding mecca. It’s also home to the wild ponies of Chincoteague Island.

The town of Chincoteague, Virginia, is a short drive or bike ride from its famous wild ponies and Atlantic beaches.

from the Wallops Flight Facility, a NASA rocket launch station just outside Chincoteague. Antares rockets lift off Wallops Island, carrying cargo to the International Space Station. At its visitors’ center, exhibits on scientific balloon research, the solar system and space flight attract space buffs of all ages.

W A K E

Middle Peninsula: cool towns In the 1600s Capt. John Smith called the area of Onancock “the Gem of the Eastern Shore.” Today, Onancock, pop. 1,200, has been dubbed the sixth-coolest U.S. small town by Budget Travel. See EASTERN SHORE, page 28

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Eastern Shore From page 27 The town is full of stately, 19th-century homes, dockside eateries, artsy shops and galleries. The Eastern Shore of Virginia Historical Society is housed in Ker Place, a federal period, Georgian-style house, restored to its 1806 glory. The tiny town of Wachapreague, population 230, is a mix of sea and science. Fishing and recreational boats chug out of the town marina along lush marshes. The pedestrian-friendly town has a general store, tackle shop and places to rent kayaks, bicycles and golf carts. The Island Restaurant is Wachapreague’s signature place to eat, and its specialty is Oysters Parramore, named for one of the nearby barrier islands.

Locals here expound on the gastronomic merits of Chincoteague oysters. The local waters, fed by ocean tides, give “their” oysters a briny, saltier flavor than others. Sweet potato biscuits pair perfectly with the oysters. Also in Wachapreague is the Virginia Institute of Marine Science’s Eastern Shore Laboratory, a world-class research and teaching seawater lab for coastal ecology, aquaculture and marine science. Every year scientists invite the public inside to learn about, for example, benthic invertebrates under high-powered microscopes or microplastic ocean pollution. Marine Life Day is scheduled for Sept. 18, 2021.

Lower Peninsula: Cape Charles

J U L Y 2 0 2 1 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

tip, anyone with a driver’s license can scoot around Cape Charles in a golf cart and explore its boutiques, coffee shops, inns, art galleries, a distillery, cidery, brewery and bed-and-breakfasts in century-old buildings. Given its “urbanity,” Cape Charles “may be on the Eastern Shore, but it is not quite of it,” wrote Mariner in his book, Off 13. In the Cape Charles Museum, located in a former power plant, visitors learn that in the Eocene epoch, a meteor smashed into the Atlantic Ocean at 37 miles per second and in effect created the Chesapeake Bay. On the fishing pier, pros and amateurs can fish or crab without a license. The town’s Festive Fridays and old-fashioned holiday celebrations start the day after Thanksgiving.

On the Delmarva peninsula’s southern

The Islands

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For a full experience of the Eastern Shore, a boat trip to the barrier islands is a must. Shells in shades of brown, gray and bleached white decorate the sand. Spartina grasses sway as terns dive and laughing gulls squawk overhead. “Most of the islands are pretty much as they were when the first blue-eyed British

dandy stepped out of his dinghy and sank up to his waist in marsh mud,” wrote Chris Badger in Virginia Wildlife magazine. Longer than they are wide, the 23 uninhabited wind-blown sand strips are constantly reshaped by the winds (some are closed to the public). Most are prime, undisturbed habitat for shorebirds, sand diggers, fiddler crabs and other wildlife, owned and protected by the state and the Nature Conservancy. These islands are some of the most pristine, uninhabited habitat in the United States and have been designated an International Biosphere Reserve by the United Nations. To get there, rent a kayak, charter a boat or take a boat taxi from Wachapreague. For a closer look at the islands’ human history, tour the Barrier Islands Center in Machipongo, which showcases fishing, farming and the impact of hurricanes. The center is housed in a historic almshouse with an intentionally crooked chimney. For more information about the barrier islands of the Virginia Coast Reserve, see nature.org. For events, lodging, food and directions, visit Eastern Shore of Virginia Tourism Commission, VisitESVA.com.

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vol • un • teer A person who changes a child’s life forever

Join Us. Experience Corps volunteers – people age 50 and older – help children in kindergarten through third grade learn to read. Join us at an information session to learn how you can become a reading tutor and transform the lives of students in the Washington D.C. area.

Say you saw it in the Beacon

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — J U L Y 2 0 2 1

Style

Arts &

Check out these summer reads with older and wiser characters. See reviews on page 30.

Alexandria’s town crier rhymes in uniform of the city’s persona. With its cobblestone streets, antique lampposts and historic architecture — some the same as when George Washington walked the streets — Alexandria loves to show off the town’s history. Conde Nast Traveler’s 2020 Reader’s Choice Awards named Alexandria one of the top five best small cities for the third consecutive year. Southern Living listed it as one of the South’s top 20 in 2020, a city that “has it all,” including locally owned businesses, “signature boutiques” and “historic charm.” Adding to that charm is the town crier, a role that has existed off and on in Alexandria since the 1700s. Fiore-Walker is one of perhaps 20 criers in the U.S. and 300 in the world. (Firm estimates are hard to come by.) “In the 30 years that I have worked with the Office of Historic Alexandria, I have had the opportunity to work with four fantastic town criers,” said Gretchen Bulova, director of that office. “Each of them has brought his own special talent and voice to the job. At its core, the position of the town crier is a historic link to our local community.”

PHOTO BY K. SUMMERER FOR VISIT ALEXANDRIA

By Glenda C. Booth In the heat of the summer, he dons a pressed-wool tricorn hat, a white, billowysleeved shirt, a red waistcoat, a white-silk neckerchief, white breeches that reach just below the knee, gray stockings and straight last shoes. Grasping a brass handbell and a cloth scroll spooled on wooden handles, he booms, “Oyez, oyez, oyez!” And crowds snap to attention. Benjamin Fiore-Walker, 52, is Alexandria’s town crier, who for 10 years has welcomed visitors, led parades, opened events and introduced officials in his hometown. “It’s immensely fun,” he said. “I love Alexandria. I love representing Alexandria. At most events, people are happy, excited, and it’s fun welcoming them.” In our age of split-second communication, a town crier may seem anachronistic. Before moveable type for printing was invented and at a time when most people were illiterate, England’s town criers made official announcements such as the King’s proclamations or news of a royal child’s birth. In Alexandria today, the town crier is part

On the lawn of the 1753 Carlyle House in Alexandria, Virginia, Benjamin Fiore-Walker, center, demonstrates how he makes public announcements in his role as town crier. Fiore-Walker is the city’s first Black town crier since 1816.

A Ph.D. and associate dean Fiore-Walker, who grew up in suburban Philadelphia, has always had an interest in history. He wore Colonial garb to his

Quaker wedding ceremony. He volunteered as a docent at Gadsby’s Tavern in See TOWN CRIER, page 30

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New mysteries with older main characters What can be more enjoyable than reading anthology. She is on assignment to write mystery novels with relatable the author profile. characters? Their situations Grant posits a theory that may be far-fetched, but, for reall murder mysteries revolve tired readers, older protagoaround seven core plots. Each nists add familiar elements to of his short stories is an exthe storylines. ample of one of these scenarThe Eighth Detective: A ios. The Eighth Detective presNovel, by Alex Pavesi, 304 ents the seven murder myspages, Henry Holt and Co. teries written by Grant. Each hardcover, 2020; Picador one is followed by a chapter paperback, August 2021 describing Julia’s reactions, On a remote Mediter- THE criticisms and discussions ranean island, solitary isolated BIBLIOPHILE with the author about the preresident and retiree Grant By Dinah Rokach ceding story. Discrepancies McAllister is visited by book and contradictions occur in all editor Julia Hart. Her firm plans to publish seven mysteries. Is there a sinister overarhis long-forgotten, decades-old short story ching explanation?

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Seniors will relate to Grant’s physical limitations, his faulty memory and his chagrin at the young woman pointing out the flaws, however minor, in his writing. The cliffs, treacherous rocks and winding paths on an island with few inhabitants create a haunted backdrop to the tale. The Eighth Detective is the first novel by Alex Pavesi, a software engineer who lives in London. The Last Trial, by Scott Turow, 470 pages, Grand Central Publishing paperback, 2021 Many of us can empathize with the last weeks preceding retirement, the last project, the very last day. Emotions are raw, and soon-to-be-retired workers may have second thoughts about their decision. We may ourselves have experienced the poignancy of closing a family enterprise. The Last Trial tells the story of 85-year-old immigrant attorney, twice-widowed Alejandro (Sandy) Stern and the riveting account of his final case. A further element that adds depth to the story is the interplay between generations, spouses, colleagues and friends. Once the verdict and trial have concluded, loose ends remain unresolved. Stern continues to pursue all of them, including what he believes was an attempt on his life. He finds companionship and help from his granddaughter Pinky. As his long legal career ends, the pro-

tagonist realizes that justice must be tempered with forgiveness. That is the most important of life’s lessons. Septuagenarian author Scott Turow portrays the emotional life of his characters with superb artistry. He has been practicing law for four decades and has sold more than 30 million books. Death in Her Hands: A Novel, by Ottessa Moshfegh, 272 pages, Penguin House paperback, 2021 This psychological thriller is a first-person narrative by a recently widowed childless woman. Vesta Gul is 72 years old. Her only companion is Charlie, a puppy she acquired after her husband Walter’s death. Walter was a university professor, an epistemologist whose rational, scientific approach contrasted with his wife’s emotional and spontaneous personality. Vesta leaves her memories behind and embarks on her solitary life by moving across the country to New England. Vesta lives without telephone, TV or internet on a secluded, rundown 12-acre lakeside tract. Her only links to the outside world are her radio, the mail delivery and her car. Vesta must drive to the gas station three miles away to use the phone. Every Monday, she drives further into town to do her shopping. When she wants to go

Town crier

would think. The only thing that mattered was whether you could read.”

From page 29 Alexandria and gave pedicab tours to visitors, pedaling and pointing out local historic sites. His professional background and day job are completely unrelated to his town crier role, Fiore-Walker notes. After getting a Ph.D. from the University of Virginia in neuropsychology, he taught psychology and neuropsychology at Georgetown University School of Medicine and went on to be the school’s associate dean for diversity for 20 years. Today, he manages diversity, equity and inclusion for the American Chemical Society, an organization of professional chemists and chemical engineers. To land the unpaid crier position, FioreWalker beat 11 others in a “cryoff” in which judges rated the strength and clarity of his voice, deportment, verbal and nonverbal communication and interest in Alexandria. The cry he performed for the tryout recalled the city’s history of Scottish, English, Irish and African people and its heyday as a tobacco port. Fiore-Walker is the city’s second AfricanAmerican town crier. Peter Logan, a man born into slavery who bought his freedom, was the first, in 1816. The irony of having a freed slave as the town crier in what before the Civil War was one of the country’s largest slave trading centers is emblematic of Alexandria, Fiore-Walker said. “Race did not matter as much as you

See BIBLIOPHILE, page 31

Rhyming is part of the job Fiore-Walker belts out cries, rhyming quatrains that he writes unique to each event, using what he calls “Colonial sentence structure.” When he’s working, he’s in full Colonial mode, representing the city. His clothing is a uniform, not a costume, he insists. The attire is called a “livery” — an 18th-century term for the elaborate uniform worn by royal servants. Once in uniform, he puts aside all electronic devices and modern accoutrements and takes on a town crier mindset. For example, en route to events, he does not stop at a store for milk. “A town crier does not need a carton of milk,” he said. Although the COVID-19 pandemic moved most events online, Fiore-Walker still strives for authenticity. He grumbles that “Hear ye, hear ye” is a Hollywood invention: The proper cry is “Oyez, oyez,” derived from old French, meaning “to hear” — a call used to silence crowds and command attention. Alexandria’s town crier is a lifetime position. When Fiore-Walker dons Colonial garb and rings his bell throughout Old Town’s cobblestone streets, belting out poetic announcements, he doesn’t consider himself an actor. Rather, he said, he’s a town official doing official town business with pride. “It means something,” he said.

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Arts & Style

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — J U L Y 2 0 2 1

My favorite blues music takes me back Music may indeed soothe the savage heard of (and never want to hear), the breast. But it’s a flashpoint between We wide generational gulf only gets wider. Old Folks and Those Young But it isn’t just popular clas‘Uns. sics from the 1945-1965 period Flip through memories that get my sentimentality and of the tunes and crooners my blood pressure cranking. It’s on whom we grew up: Ezio the music that many of us Pinza singing “Some Enboogeyed to, sipped forbidden chanted Evening,” Frank wine to, stole a kiss to. Sinatra seeing a man who For me, that list consists of danced with his wife, Joan one guy and one guy only. Baez singing just about anyMuddy Waters. thing. He was a staple of the Chicago The real deal, each and HOW I SEE IT delta blues scene in the 1950s By Bob Levey every one of them. and 1960s. He could crackle, he And today? could belt, he could cajole, he Well, when someone young enough to could rasp. There was no one like him. be my great-grandson starts lavishing I had never heard of Waters — or heard praise on a heavy metal group I’ve never of Chicago blues — when I fetched up in

Bibliophile From page 30 online, Vesta uses the local library’s computer. Like many a solitary soul, Vesta daydreams about the past. She interprets Charlie’s moods with what she presumes is perfect clarity. She creates imaginary stories about the townspeople she encounters in passing. Vesta finds a mysterious note left at a re-

mote site along her daily walk in the woods. Her innate curiosity impels her to attempt to solve the mystery behind the note. Vesta finds an outlet for what she assumes are her keen powers of observation honed by her time spent alone. The actions that ensue make Death in Her Hands a memorable tale. Author Ottessa Moshfegh is 40 years old. Decide for yourself whether her depiction of this septuagenarian is pure fiction or grounded in reality.

that windy city in 1962 for my first year of college. One crisp fall day, I was walking past the main auditorium when I heard some musicians tuning up inside. A curious soul, then and now, I opened up a side door. And got absolutely pulverized with electric guitars and thumping vocals. Gypsy woman told my mother Before I was born Got a boy child comin’ Gonna be a son of a gun It didn’t take me long to learn that this was The Mud Man’s anthem. It’s called “Hoochie Coochie Man.” As they used to say on the radio in those post-war days, run, do not walk, to Google if you’ve never heard this song, or Muddy. Hoochie Coochie Man will cause a severe outbreak of toe tapping, finger drum-

ming and warmth spreading all through your creaky bones. Muddy Waters had the most humble upbringing imaginable. From toddlerhood, he picked cotton in Mississippi. He lived in a shack made of wood slats reinforced with mud (thus his nickname). He did not learn to read or write until he was 50 years old. He had, as they politely say, many relationships, which produced several children. He fancied large Buicks and pinky rings. He was no choir boy, for sure. But he was a star, and he knew it. Alas, like many African-American blues singers, he never made anywhere near as much money from his talent as he should have. Sharp music promoters (always See BLUES MUSIC, page 33

BEACON BITS

July 23

UNTOLD HISTORIES

Two years ago, researchers discovered the remains of the Clotilda, the last slave ship to enter the U.S., in 1860. After that discovery, Vera Carothers traveled to Mobile, Alabama to talk to descendants of the slaves smuggled into the country. In this free talk, which takes place virtually on Fri., July 23 from 3 to 4 p.m., Carothers will share some of these stories and answer questions about the history and her reporting process. For more information and to register, visit bit.ly/ClotildaHistory. For more information, call Lena Frumin at (202) 895-9485.

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Throughout the ages, there have been many important advances in mobility. Canes, walkers, rollators, and scooters were created to help people with mobility issues get around and retain their independence. Lately, however, there haven’t been any new improvements to these existing products or developments in this field. Until now. Recently, an innovative design engineer who’s developed one of the world’s most popular products created a completely new breakthrough... a personal electric vehicle. It’s called the Zinger, and there is nothing out there quite like it.

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Crossword Puzzle

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

By Believin’ Stephen

44 49

19 21

Across 1. Gallows delay 5. Scrubbed out of the history books 11. Loveseat’s leftmost lump 14. Energetic 15. Home to CA’s Latino Walk of Fame 16. Vowels of poverty 17. High-protein snack 19. Worthless item 20. Backless chairs 21. ___ in apple 22. Fix a broken heart 23. Oscar recognition, briefly 24. Stage name of Rocky III star Lawrence Tureaud 25. Pops 26. Artificial 30. ___ sapien 31. TV’s Tarzan, Ron 32. Excuses 36. Winner of The Rumble in the Jungle 37. Make use of a cheese cave 38. X-Files employer 39. Commotion 40. Original western terminus of the Northern Pacific Railroad 42. Angus announcement 43. Stewpot 44. Minor motoring mishap 47. Restrains a suspect 50. One entranced by The Pied Piper 51. Raided the refrigerator 52. Gold and silver (but not bronze) 53. Bush 43, to Bush 41 54. Extra sheet in a yearbook 57. Grp. with Magic and Wizards 58. Potential first mover in a chess game 60. Symptom of lactose intolerance 61. Element with symbol “I” 62. One with tix to the homecoming game 63. Kitchen pest 64. Checked for COVID antibodies 65. Long-lasting light bulbs

Down

Jumble answers on p. 35.

Scrabble answers on p. 35.

1. Soldiers with supervisory resp.

2. Plug a product 3. Adhering to applications of plant science 4. She funded Central Park’s Strawberry Fields memorial 5. SeeYa centers 6. Member of The Big Bang Theory gang 7. “Feel free to arrive ___ as you want” 8. ___-Matic (baseball game simulator) 9. Lodge men 10. Genesis time unit 11. Helped out a teacher 12. Like Target’s logo 13. Bluesman Waters 18. Covered in tall trees 22. Mother ___ (kid’s game) 24. Cock or bull 25. Grocery store counter 26. Excellent, in 90s slang 27. Greeting at Cancun International Airport 28. “At 50, I ___ to know who I was” (Maya Angelou) 29. Mongolian magnate 33. Centerpiece of the Great Seal of the United States 34. Homophone of idol and idyll 35. Change, as 1970s gas prices 37. Iowa college town 38. Structure built from sofa cushions 41. Trade-___ (pros and cons) 42. Was sincere 43. Subject to a jury’s verdict 45. Some Star Wars action figures 46. Acquire interest on savings 47. Cuban drum 48. Citified 49. Wedding meal 53. Loafer or sneaker 54. Barely managed 55. Sound of impact 56. Nowadays, some let you key in bitcoin sales 58. Wisdom’s alliterative partner 59. Dir. from Charlotte to Raleigh

Answers on page 35.

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Arts & Style

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — J U L Y 2 0 2 1

Blues music From page 31 White) made sure that they got the lion’s share of every track Muddy ever recorded. It was the same with Howlin’ Wolf, Little Walter, Albert King and many other bluesmen who wailed on harmonicas and harmonies. Nevertheless, Muddy Waters knew how to grip my teenaged lapels and shakeshake-shake them. Rock and roll? Oh, sure, it had its moments. But it struck me so often as bubblegummy and naïve. Folk music? Nice, but too self-conscious. Show tunes? They were singable and predictable, which was both the good news and the bad. When Muddy Waters sang the blues, he was somehow mournful and hopeful at the same time. When he told of being mistreated, you were right there with him. When he pleaded, his pain was your pain. Baby, please don’t go Baby, please don’t go Baby, please don’t go down to New Orleans Because I love you so Or his unlucky-in-love classic, “Got My Mojo Working”: Got my mojo working, but it just don’t work on you Want to love you so bad that I don’t know what to do No, his lyrics won’t win any poetry contests. But if you want your music raw and real, if you want it genuine and unembellished, if you want to snap your fingers and sing right along, Muddy has been my go-to guy since my hair was brown and my legs could still sprint for the bus. I suppose I could open up my musical windows and let in some fresh air. I could try to like Bruce Springsteen and Pearl Jam. I could begin to recognize the bitter reality of rap. I could try to get beyond my lifelong resistance to classical (all those violins!). But when I tee up Muddy’s greatest hits, I don’t need anyone or anything else. I don’t want anyone else. I just want to hear his mouth harp, and

Letters to editor From page 2 that one should follow their dreams. I wish him all the best in his endeavor. Kay Kruk Chantilly, VA Dear Editor: Reading the guest column in the June issue, one feels like having a fireside chat with

ONE BIG HAPPY By Rick Detorie

then his bass-baritone, so I can be 17 again. She’s the one I’m loving She’s the one I hate to lose I could say exactly the same about Mr. Muddy Waters. Love him. Hate to have lost him. Bob Levey is a national award-winning columnist. you and with your grandparents. The story simply flows out of your mouth and forces one to re-live the very lives you are telling. When your grandmother told you, “That’s just how it was,” one could imagine the miserable war situation that engulfed the European continent and the whole world. Keep on writing the guest column. Hungtak Lee Woodstock, MD

BEACON BITS

July 25

JAM SESSION

The Potomac River Jazz Club presents a jam session with the 7piece Conservatory Classic Jazz Band at Normandie Farms Restaurant in Potomac, MD. Students and jammers can attend for free. All others pay $10. For more information and to reserve tickets, visit popovers.com or call (301) 983-8838.

J U L Y 2 0 2 1 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

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CLASSIFIEDS The Beacon prints classified advertising under the following headings: Business & Employment Opportunities; Caregivers; Computer Services; Entertainment; For Sale; For Sale/Rent: Real Estate; Free; Health; Home/ Handyman Services; Miscellaneous; Personals; Personal Services; Vacation Opportunities; and Wanted. For submission guidelines and deadlines, see the box on page 35. 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. Business & Employment Opportunities HIGH END EXECUTIVE TYPE OFFICES in Falls Church, VA, shared conference rooms, coffee bars, custom made furniture, reception area. 2 available, from $900 to $1100 per month full service, tenant pays phone bill. Korte Realty, 712 W. Broad St. Falls Church, 703-532-7704. Treena Rinaldi, Broker, 703-927-3863.

Caregivers A CARE AGENCY - Been in business for more than 10 years. Experienced nurses, CNAs, GNAs. Any hours you need. Flat rate for live-in. Duties include cooking, housekeeping, bathing, errands, etc. Tel: 667-231-8235 MOBILE HAIR AND NAIL SERVICES - WE COME TO YOU. Professional Licensed Stylist. Women and Men’s Services - All Hair Types. Covid safe practices. Shampoo, Cuts, Sets, Color, Perms, Mens Cuts & Facial Grooming, Manicures & more. 301-338-8251 SENIOR CARE IN YOUR OWN HOME. Your trusted neighborhood caregivers here to help you 24/7. Companionship, Personal & Respite Care, Housekeeping, Meal Prep, Medication Reminders. legacychevychase.com 240-442-8486. A HOME HEALTHCARE- Experienced nurses, CNA, GNA are available 24/7. Cooking, companionship, personal care, housekeeping, driving. Full/Part-time or live-in care. Flat rate for live-in. 15 years’ experience. (240-533-6599)

Computer Services PROBLEM WITH YOUR PC/MAC OR NETWORK? Computer Systems Engineer will come to you with help. Call David G. Computer Services at: 301-328-2112 or 301-642-4526.

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

For Sale NATIONAL MEMORIAL PARK 3 choice sites in desirable Block E. Reg $7,100 each, sale $3,495, OBO. 941-966-7616.

For Sale

Miscellaneous

Wanted

PUT ON YOUR TV EARS and hear TV with unmatched clarity. TV Ears Original were originally $129.95 - NOW WITH THIS SPECIAL OFFER are only $59.95 with code MCB59! Call 1-833-934-0843.

MULTI-FAMILY YARD SALE Saturday, July 10 - Sunday, July 11. 8 am to 3 pm. 4102 Havard St, Silver Spring, MD 20906.

COLLECTOR BUYING MILITARY ITEMS: helmets, weapons, knives, swords, web gear, uniforms, etc, from all wars & countries. Also slots/pinball & other coin operated machines. Top prices paid, Vaccinated & COVID Safe. CALL FRED 301-910-0783.

GENERAC STANDBY GENERATORS provide backup power during utility power outages, so your home and family stay safe and comfortable. Prepare now. Free 7-year extended warranty ($695 value!). Request a free quote today! Call for additional terms and conditions. 1-866964-8106.

For Sale/Rent: Real Estate BEAUTIFUL, MODERN FURNISHED CONDO open looked completely renovated kitchen and bathroom in downtown Silver Spring. 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom. Concierge, pool, and community room. The condo is conveniently located off of 16th St, near 495 Beltway, and East West Highway. Georgia Ave , Only 10 minutes to downtown Bethesda, 15 minutes to Adam’s Morgan and DuPont Circle. Just a short walk to the Silver Spring Red Line Metro and Ride-On bus stop. $1980 per month. 240-4753345 valmcd16gmail.com

Health LIBRA NATURAL HEALTH CONSULTING Create Health — Help Children Thrive — Conquer Covid Complications — Alleviate Chronic Conditions. sdanuhealthy@gmail.com LIFE ALERT. One press of a button sends help FAST, 24/7! At home and on the go. Mobile Pendant with GPS. FREE First Aid Kit (with subscription.) CALL 240-847-6732 FREE Brochure. MOBILEHELP, America’s Premier Mobile Medical Alert System. Whether You’re Home or Away. For Safety and Peace of Mind. No Long Term Contracts! Free Brochure! Call Today! 1240-650-9189 DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 350 plus procedures. Real dental insurance - NOT just a discount plan. Do not wait! Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details! 1-844-366-1003 www.dental50plus.com/320 #6258. RUBY CREED WELLNESS SPA has Esthetician Services, and Massage Services, Treat yourself for spa day! 50% off for first time clients, Our location is conveniently at the Salon LoftsWest Alexandria loft-14- 3461 Berkeley st. Alexandria Virginia 22302. Appointments 703474-4528 PORTABLE OXYGEN CONCENTRATOR May Be Covered by Medicare! Reclaim independence and mobility with the compact design and long-lasting battery of Inogen One. Free information kit! Call 855-851-0949.

Home/Handyman Services DON’T LET THE STAIRS LIMIT YOUR MOBILITY! Discover the ideal solution for anyone who struggles on the stairs, is concerned about a fall or wants to regain access to their entire home. Call AmeriGlide today! 1-866-3655170 THE BATHROOM OF YOUR DREAMS for as little as $149/month! BCI Bath & Shower. Many options available. Quality materials & professional installation. Senior & Military Discounts Available. Limited Time Offer - FREE virtual in-home consultation now and SAVE 15%! Call Today! 1-855-653-0087. SLOWING DOWN AFTER 39 YEARS of contracting. Small to medium jobs mainly residential but will do some commercial. $42.50 from arrival on job. Will work all over DC area. Andy 703-906-5429.

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

Personal Services WORKOUT WITH RONDA ONLINE FROM HOME: Not ready or able to return to the gym? No problem! Join Ronda for Chair Yoga, Restorative Yoga, Yoga Stretch, Pilates, Strength Training w/ light weights and Relaxation/Meditation all from your own home for just $10 per class. Packages and private lessons are also available. Visit www.moxie.xyz/RondaBernstein for schedule and registration. Don’t see a time that works for you? Classes can be added by request. Certified Group Fitness Instructor since 1994.

BUYING VINYL RECORDS from 1950 to 1990. Jazz, Rock-n-Roll, Soul, Rhythm & Blues, Reggae, Punk, Blues, and Disco. 33 1/3 LP’s, 45’s and some 78’s, Some Groups Of CD’s Larger collections of at least 100 items wanted. Please call John, 301-596-6201.

“HOME TO OFFICE AND EVERYWHERE IN BETWEEN!” We are A to Z personal organizers, bringing order to your life. We specialize in relocation services for seniors. Check us out on the web: A2ZOrganizers.com, or give us a call at 240.432.4920.

TIRED OF POLISHING YOUR SILVER? Turn it into cash which does not tarnish. I will come to your home to give you a free evaluation of what I can pay. I buy all gold and silver jewelry, including broken pieces, all sterling silver, gold and silver coins, gold watches, etc. I am licensed with both Maryland and Montgomery County (lic. #2327). Gold 4 Good pays an additional 5 percent to all sellers who are veterans of the U.S. Army, Air Force, Navy or Marine Corps. And we extend the same courtesy to their spouses. We honor our servicemen (and their spouses). Gold 4 Good is a Maryland licensed precious metals dealership. Call Bob, (240) 938-9694.

MARYLAND SENIOR CONCIERGE SERVICES, LLC - Personal Services For Seniors. We offer a wide range of services: transitioning, moving, decluttering, packing, medical escort, shopping, bills and errands. We help you maintain your independence & gain control of your life. www.mdseniorhelp.com Call: Christine Callahan, CSA - 301.452.5730. READY TO MOVE OR DOWNSIZE? Do you feel overwhelmed and stressed? Downsizing Specialists is here to help! Our process helps you determine what to keep, gift, sell, donate, or discard with a compassionate specialist. Services include downsizing, decluttering, moving prep, estate sales and consignment of antiques, jewelry, coins, and collectibles. We also buy estates, vehicles, and real estate. DownsizingSpecialists.com or call/text Philip 301-219-3600 for details. Entire staff is vaccinated.

TV/Cable DISH NETWORK. $64.99 for 190 Channels! Blazing Fast Internet, $19.99/mo. (where available.) Switch & Get a FREE $100 Visa Gift Card. FREE Voice Remote. FREE HD DVR. FREE Streaming on ALL Devices. Call today! 1844-560-5837. DIRECTV for $69.99/mo for 12 months with CHOICE Package. Watch your favorite live sports, news & entertainment anywhere. One year of HBO Max FREE. Directv is #1 in Customer Satisfaction (JD Power & Assoc.) Call for more details! (some restrictions apply) Call 1888-572-4953.

Wanted I BUY CARS TRUCKS SUVS and Harley Davidsons. Licensed Dealer. Will buy as is. Local Montgomery County and some areas of Washington D.C. and Frederick county. Call Tom at 301-806-8140. TOP PRICES PAID FOR FINE ANTIQUES, artwork and decorative objects including decorated crocks and jugs, unusual antique clocks, music boxes and mechanical things, coin operated devices, furniture, rare antique dolls and toys etc. I am 68 years old, well educated, financially capable, and have over 40 years in this business. Why pay outlandish auction house, estate agent or consignment store commissions when you can get a fair upfront price for your pieces with no hassle? If you have something interesting or unusual, rare and valuable and are prepared to sell it I would like to speak with you. Please call Jake Lenihan, 301 279 8834. No calls after 7 pm please. Thank you.

WANTED OLD MOTORCYCLES: 1970’s & Older. Any condition good or bad. Buying AS IS paying CASH & PICKING UP. Kawasaki Norton Honda Triumph BMW Yamaha Harley BSA Suzuki Indian Etc. Call for CASH offer 1-800-2209683, website: www.wantedoldmotorcycles.com

LOOKING TO BUY PRETTY THINGS. Favorites include Dresden, Herend, Royal Copenhagen and Shelley. English bone china cups and saucers, figurines by various makers and dish sets. Art, collectibles, pottery and sterling. Teak furniture. Serious collector of vintage Christmas and Halloween decorations. Please call (301) 785-1129. MD Precious Metal License 2753. CASH FOR JEWELRY: Buying jewelry, diamonds, gold, platinum, silver, watches, coins, flatware, etc. Ask for Tom. Call anytime, 301654-8678 (Reg. 883). ALWAYS BUYING OLD STUFF! Old Silverware, Flatware and Holloware (even some silverplate), Old books (pre-1930), Costume Jewelry, Pinup magazines before 1970, Comic Books, Old School Rings, Old Coins: U.S. & Foreign, Dental Gold (Yellow or White), Pocket/Wrist Watches, Old Toys/Games, Broken Jewelry (damaged, missing stones, etc.), Sports Cards, Risque paperback books, Old Adverting Signs, Old Metal Lunchboxes & other old stuff. What do you have? Call Alex: 571-426-5363 ~ I’ll come to you! WILL BUY MILITARY, WWII, WWI, Civil War memorabilia items. Uniforms, weapons, helmets, photos, war souvenirs, medals, photos or any other items associated with U.S., German, Japanese or other military history. Call Dave (240-4640958) or email (david.obal63@gmail.com). WANTED: OLDER VIOLINS, GUITARS, BANJOS, MANDOLINS, UKULELES. Musician/collector will pay cash for older string instruments. I’m vaccinated & will wear mask. Jack (301) 279-2158. CASH FOR ESTATES. I buy a wide range of items; Jewelry, Silver, Art, Rugs, Cultural Items, ETC., ETC. BUY OUT/CLEAN, 301-520-0755 WEBSITE: TheAtticLLC.com. I have my own trucks, my own crew & insurance. BOOK COLLECTIONS WANTED. Moving? Downsizing? Estate? Together the Bonafide Book Buyers have over 85 years experience as professional buyers & sellers of quality books in the D. C. area. Best prices paid for good books. Examples: Easton Press, Folio Society, First Edition Science Fiction & Mysteries, Military, History, Scholarly & Academic Press publications. Call Nelson at 240-472-4615 for an appointment at your house. Also will consider DVDs & CDs. Curbside pickup possible, phone for details.

BEACON BITS

Aug. 3

HISTORY LESSONS

On the first Tuesday of the month at noon, learn more about Maryland history at the Montgomery History’s Tuesday Talks. Recent lectures covered immigrants’ influence on architecture and a virtual tour of the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Visitor Center. For more information or to watch previous lectures, visit montgomeryhistory.org/mhconnected/watch.

Say you saw it in the Beacon

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — J U L Y 2 0 2 1

ANSWERS TO CROSSWORD

FROM PAGE 32 ANSWERS TO SCRABBLE

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A I D M E D A D E Y L I B I A O L E N D A T E R R A N I G A L L E

HOW TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED AD R O U N D

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ANSWERS TO JUMBLE Jumbles: PAUSE SKUNK TATTOO WALLOP Answer: They were able to get away from the porcupine because the porcupine was a -- SLOWPOKE

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

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

ADVERTISERS IN THIS ISSUE Clinical Studies

Housing

Hearing Study . . . . . . . . .16 Sleep Study . . . . . . . . . . .16

Ashby Ponds/ Erickson . . . . . . .B3, B10 Brooke Grove Retirement Village . . . . . . . . . .11, B6, B13, B14, B20 Capital Ridge . . . . . . . .B12 Chesterbrook Residences . . . . .B3, B13 Chevy Chase House B8, B10 Churchill Senior Living . . .7 Covenant Village . .B6, B14 Culpepper Garden . . . . . . .6 Emerson House . . .B6, B13 Enterprise Residential . . .10 Falcons Landing . . .9, B13 Friendship Terrace . . .8, B6 Greenspring/ Erickson . . . . . . . .B3, B6 Harmony Senior Services .4 Homecrest House . .B7, B16 Homewood at Frederick .17 Landing Alexandria, The . . . . . . . . . . .B4, B10 Landing of Silver Spring, The . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B2 Livingston Place . . . . . . .12 Maplewood at Park Place . . . . . .B5, B10 Modena Reserve .B13, B17

Events 2021 Beacon Virtual 50+Expo . . . . . . . . . . .36 Northern Virginia Senior Olympics . . . . .22

Funeral Services Going Home Cremation .26 Lay to Rest Cremation . .24

Government Services DC Health . . . . . . . . . . . .18 Financial Navigators . . . .23 Montgomery County Aging & Disability Services .13 Montgomery County Public Libraries . . . . . .30 Montgomery County Ride On Flex . . . . . . . .12 Montgomery County SHIP 7 STAY DC . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

Home Health Care/Companion Services Best Senior Care . . . . . . .B8 Options for Senior America5

Quantum Property Mgmt B6 Park View Apartments . . .10 The Providence Fairfax . . . . . . . . .B4, B19 Residences at Glenarden Hills . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B9 Residences at Thomas Circle . . . . . . . . . .B7, B13 Riderwood/ Erickson . . . . . . .B3, B16 Ring House . . . . . . . . . .B19 Seneca, The . . . . . .B4, B14 Sommerset . . . . . .B10, B16 Springvale Terrace . . . . .B5, B9, B10 Tribute . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 Vinson Hall . . . . . . . .1, B14 Virginian, The . . .B14, B15

Legal Services Farr Law Firm . . . . . . . . .24 Law Offices of Nancy Feldman . . . . . .23 Law Offices of Paul Riekhof . . . . . . . . . . . . .24

Medical/Health Capital Caring Health . . . .9 Judy Oh, DDS . . . . . . . . .17 Medical Eye Center . . . . .17 Silver Spring Medical Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18

Steven Freidman, DDS . .16

Miscellaneous AARP Experience Corp .28 GROWS Montgomery County . . . . . . . . . . . . .29 Verizon Voice Lifeline . . . .6

Real Estate Long & Foster/ Eric Stewart . . . . . .22, 27

Retail Perfect Sleep Chair . . . .B18 Zinger Chair . . . . . . . . . .31

Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation Manor Care Health Services . . . . . . . . . . . .13

Subscriptions Beacon Newspapers . . . .26

Theatre/ Entertainment Senior Zone . . . . . . . . . . .30 Toby’s Dinner Theater . . .29

Travel Shillelaghs . . . . . . . . . . . .28 TravelWV.com . . . . . . . .26

J U L Y 2 0 2 1 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

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RETURNING THIS FALL

This year, we are pleased to announce two in-person events and an online Virtual 50+Expo In-person Expos

NEW LOCATION

Springfield, Va. Sunday, Oct. 17, 2021

Bethesda, Md. Sunday, Oct. 24, 2021

Springfield Town Center

Westfield Montgomery Mall

Health Screenings • Flu Shots • Keynote Speaker Exhibitors (nonproﬁt, government and business) Giveaways • Door Prizes

Online Expo

October 1 thru November 30 at beacon50expo.com Online find dozens of free classes, speakers and entertainers available 24/7, as well as helpful resources and exhibitors at your fingertips for two months. Watch this space for more details. Or email info@beacon50expo.com to receive updates. ATTN: Businesses and nonproﬁts: To sponsor or exhibit at either or both in-person Expos and/or at our virtual Expo, call (301) 949-9766 or speak with your Beacon advertising representative.