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How stories help doctors, patients

Narrative medicine, Small explained in an interview with the Beacon, “looks at how a patient speaks of a place in the context of stories — the stories in literary works, in poems, in paintings; the stories that the patients tell the doctors, the stories the doctors share with each other about their patients, the stories the doctors tell themselves about their work.” In 2000, a New York physician and literary scholar first popularized the term narrative medicine, a century-old idea. Dr. Rita Charon went on to found the Narrative Medicine program at Columbia University.

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Lauren Small and Ben Oldfield established a program in 2014 at Johns Hopkins for doctors, nurses and social workers to reflect on their patients’ stories. The weekly program, AfterWards, seeks “to illuminate stories of healing for the healers.”

A basic premise of narrative medicine, say the experts, is that patient accounts are similar to stories in literature, with a plot, characters (patients, family, friends, enemies, doctors, nurses, etc.), and metaphors. The experts say narrative medicine “aims not only to validate the experience of the patient, but also to encourage creativity and self-reflection in the physician.” In other words, doctors and patients should find the time and the ways to relate

to one another on a more human level. “Art and literature reflect the human spirit,” Small said. “By engaging in reflection on art or literature, clinicians reconnect with their own humanity and the humanity of their patients. They are reminded to consider their patients as whole people, not just a disease. “Narrative medicine reminds doctors to consider their patients’ lives and stories — See SMALL, page 20

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What is narrative medicine?

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By Robert Friedman In a conference room at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, a group of doctors, nurses, social workers, therapists and other crucial caregivers take time out of their day to listen to a poem by W. H. Auden. The poem, “Surgical Ward,” is often recited by Lauren Small, a novelist, essayist, editor, teacher and assistant professor of pediatrics at Hopkins. The reading is part of AfterWards — as in hospital wards — a monthly literary get-together devised in 2014 by Small and Dr. Benjamin Oldfield, and based on what is known as narrative medicine, a voluntary program meant to “humanize” the doctor-patient relationship. Too often, Small noted, a visit to the doctor today is a quick in-and-out affair. “Doctors are too busy, but they have to be reminded that patients are people, not just the disease,” she said. AfterWards has been described as “a commitment by medical caregivers to understanding patients’ lives” through the reading and telling of stories, both literary and personal.

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Musings about nature I was having a conversation the other day trees, however. That plant has flourished so about all the rain we’ve had lately and, in re- well that it has managed to reach and start sponse to another person’s to envelop one of our oak complaints, I noted how much trees nearest the back fence. easier it was for me now than I find that a powerful examduring the summer time ple of the plant world’s will to drought a few years back, live (along with the wide variety when we had to water our trees of weeds that invariably fill any with a hose every evening and blank spots in our front flower got a shocking water bill. beds over a matter of days folI am so impressed how eflowing a weeding). Opporficiently a short thundertunists just won’t be deterred. storm can quickly water an Of course, there are many entire neighborhood, all at no FROM THE reasons people compare PUBLISHER charge! human beings to plants; But then our lawn care per- By Stuart P. Rosenthal among them is the effect of son told me that our trees injury and aging. and lawns have had more than enough The other night during dinner, my wife water lately, and the additional rain was and I heard a loud crash and turned our “not doing them any good.” heads to the window to see a limb from anIt doesn’t seem to have hurt the kudzu other of our oak trees had fallen into a difgrowing on most of our rear neighbor’s ferent neighbor’s yard, crashing through

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our vinyl fence on the way. Fortunately, no person (and no other object, living or otherwise) was harmed. We were later told that last winter’s ice storms appeared to have weakened that branch (and others, perhaps?), leading to the eventual damage. And that was one of our healthier trees, at least as far as we know. My wife and I have found Mother Nature’s backyard gifts to be bountiful, but sometimes costly. We have been nursing another oak through many years of something called bacterial leaf scorch disease as well as chestnut borers and ambrosia beetles. We’re talking a tree more than 75 feet tall (and probably as many years old), and it’s being undermined by bugs you can hardly see. Towards the opposite end of the size scale, I have been privileged to see, and be impressed by, other vignettes of tiny nature in recent weeks. I was walking slowly by some low trees when I saw something that stopped me in my tracks. A thin, squiggly green worm maybe half an inch long appeared to be suspended in space right at my eye level on the side of the trail. It was clearly in some kind of distress, as it was squinching up and straightening out over and over again. At first, I thought it might be caught somehow in a spider web that I couldn’t see. But as I looked more closely, I realized the little fella was apparently climbing up a thread he himself had spun, which seemed to be attached to a limb a couple of feet above him. My assumption was that he (she?) had spun a thread to lower itself from a higher branch to what it hoped was a lower one or perhaps the ground, but when it had reached nothing solid after a long descent,

decided to climb back up its own ladder to where it started. I hung around for the next 15 minutes or so, watching him do exactly that. When some young people came walking by, I pointed out the scene to them and they also ogled for awhile at the intense effort and magical appearance of the suspended worm. Turns out, these are apparently fairly common silk-spinning worms, “oak leafrollers,” that feed on leaves and eventually spin cocoons and turn into moths. This next observation may be something you’ve noticed too. After one of those summer downpours followed by the sun coming out, take a stroll along a forest path or maybe just look closely at some of the plants and trees in your yard or neighborhood. Water droplets collect on the waterproof surface of many leaves, and when the sun hits them just right, there appear to be diamonds galore sparkling everywhere. Well, maybe diamonds are the wrong analogy, as the drops are round or oval and totally smooth. But they shine and glitter and refract multicolored light just like the most impressive jewels. On a recent occasion, I pointed this phenomenon out to some youngsters, and one of them blew on the leaves as hard as she could, spraying diamond-water droplets everywhere and giggling uncontrollably. I imagined Mother Nature was looking down, smiling back at her. If you enjoy such musings about nature, I invite you to share some of yours by sending us a letter to the editor. See box below.

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Letters to the editor

Baltimore area, and is privately owned. Other editions serve Howard County, Md and Greater Washington, DC. Subscriptions are available via third-class mail ($12), prepaid with order. Maryland residents add 6 percent for sales tax. Send subscription order to the office listed below. Publication of advertising contained herein does not necessarily constitute endorsement. Signed col-

Readers are encouraged to share their opinion on any matter addressed in the Beacon as well as on political and social issues of the day. Mail your Letter to the Editor to The Beacon, P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915, or email info@thebeaconnewspapers.com. Please include your name, address and telephone number for verification.

umns represent the opinions of the writers, and not necessarily the opinion of the publisher. Publisher/Editor – Stuart P. Rosenthal President/Associate Publisher – Judith K. Rosenthal Executive Vice President – Gordon Hasenei Managing Editor – Margaret Foster Art Director – Kyle Gregory Director of Operations – Roger King Advertising Representative – Steve Levin Content Manager – Ashley Griffin Editorial Assistant – Tori Cleveland

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

The Beacon welcomes reader contributions. Deadline for editorial is the 1st of the month preceding the month of publication. Deadline for ads is the 1st of the month preceding the month of publication. See page 23 for classified advertising details. Please mail or email all submissions.

Dear Editor: Just wanted to say I so appreciated your “bumps in the road” column [From the Publisher, June 2022]. I have it on my refrigerator to remind me. Thank you for your thoughtful and meaningful words. Sally Drumm Lutherville, Md. Dear Editor: In response to the article in your July issue “What is making the price of gas so high?” by Jim Patterson: Price of crude oil has been “on a tear” for over a year. (Not mentioned: On January 22, 2021, President Biden signed order revoking permit for the construction of the Keystone XL pipeline, and 11,000 jobs were gone. The pipeline would double the capac-

ity of oil per day, according to Politico.) COVID 19 caused an effect on demand/availability of gasoline. (When President Trump left office, prices were $2.39/gallon.) Taxes — federal, state and local. More taxes = higher gas prices. Barbara G. Green Elkridge, Md. Dear Editor: Can you write an article on the effects of [the switch of phone companies to] 5G on the elderly? Barbara Golden Via email Ed. Note: Thank you for the suggestion. We include such an article in this issue. See “Your old cellphone may not work in 2022,” on page 13.

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YOUR BEST LIFE A love of reading and exercise may delay dementia up to six years HOPE FOR CANCER New type of immunotherapy dramatically shrinks cancer tumors GET BETTER SLEEP To rest easy, try a bedtime snack with oats, bananas or honey COLD COMFORT What may cause you to always be cold despite the warm weather?

Some surprising news on what’s healthy By Matthew Kadey Perhaps you don’t give much thought to your morning bowl of oatmeal, lunch of turkey and cheese sandwich, and pasta for dinner. It all seems healthy, right? Well, research is making it clear that when it comes to the calories we consume every day, form matters. Not all fruits, breads, oats, potatoes and nuts are created equal concerning their impacts on your body. Here are the best ways to eat some of your favorite foods: Oats: When you’re in the grocery store, mulling over the oatmeal selections, consider reaching for the heartier steel-cut variety. A research review published in the Journal of Nutrition showed that post-consumption blood sugar and insulin responses are better after eating intact oat kernels than after eating more processed rolled or instant oat flakes. It appears that a greater disruption in the structural integrity of the oat kernel is associated with altered rates of digestion and, in turn, fewer glycemic benefits. This may impact how full you feel and perhaps even your future risk for developing metabolic conditions like Type 2 diabetes. Nuts: Groundbreaking research has shown the number of calories we derive from whole nuts such as almonds, cashews, walnuts and pistachios is nearly 25% less than previously thought. A chunk of the calories in nuts is found within cell walls that resist being broken down by mastication and digestion so, in the end, we don’t absorb all of their up-

front calories. This is likely one reason why studies have failed to show that eating calorie-dense nuts leads to weight gain. However, the processing that goes into making nut butters and nut oils will rupture cell walls, so it’s likely we would extract more fat calories from these forms of nuts. What’s more, a study in the journal Nutrients discovered that eating whole almonds results in a greater abundance of beneficial gastrointestinal microbiota compared to almond butter. These same nuances may also apply to seeds. Pasta: A bowl of pasta salad for lunch could be more metabolically beneficial than a sandwich. A randomized controlled trial in the Journal of Nutrition evaluated postfeeding glucose metabolism in healthy adults following the consumption of durum wheat semolina in the form of spaghetti, penne, couscous and bread, with each containing 50 grams of carbohydrate. Both forms of pasta resulted in a blunted blood sugar response compared to couscous and bread. The apparent reason for this outcome is that pasta involved more chewing and oral processing time, and also remained in larger starch-particle size after digestion. You can also prepare pasta like they do in the Mediterranean — al dente, which means neither too hard nor too soft. This will give it a lower glycemic index that, in turn, should result in a more tempered blood sugar response. Go one step better by making sure to use pasta and other grains in their whole

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form. According to a study by researchers at Tufts University, people who ate a diet with more whole grains — like whole wheat pasta and brown rice — lost close to an extra 100 calories per day due to a combination of increased resting metabolic rate and greater fecal energy losses, compared to people who ate refined grains such as white pasta and white rice. The extra fiber you get from grains in their whole form is likely at play here. Apples: Perhaps the old saying should be “a whole apple a day keeps the doctor away.” British scientists provided 18 healthy adults with the same number of calories from whole apples, applesauce or apple juice on three separate occasions and then measured stomach emptying rates and indicators of fullness and satiety. Whole apples resulted in slower digestion rates as well as increased feelings of fullness and satiety post-ingestion. The extra work that our bodies require to deal with a less “processed” form of an apple, including increased chewing and digestion, likely contributes to its hunger-fighting power. This same conclusion could perhaps be applied to whole oranges compared to orange juice, whole raspberries versus raspberry jam, and fruits that are blended into smoothies instead of eating them whole. Bread and cheese: There’s more proof that not all calories are created equal. A study in the journal Food & Nutrition Re-

search provided volunteers either a sandwich made with multigrain bread and cheddar cheese or one made with processed white bread and packaged cheese slices. Even though both meals had the same number of total calories on paper, the lessprocessed sandwich required nearly twice as much energy to digest, resulting in fewer calories being available to the body for storage. While the processed sandwich used only 11% of the food’s calories for the needs of digestion, the multigrain sandwich used almost 20%. Over time, this extra calorie burn could help with weight loss goals. Potatoes: Consider giving starchy carbs the cold shoulder. When cooked and then cooled for about 24 hours, the digestible amylopectin starches in potatoes convert into the nondigestible resistant starch amylose, meaning you’ll absorb fewer of their carb calories and likely feel full for longer. Potato salad, anyone? The same cook-cool method also works to increase resistant starch levels in rice. Also, cooking, chilling and reheating pasta has been shown to lower its impact on blood sugar after consumption. Reprinted with permission from Environmental Nutrition, a monthly publication of Belvoir Media Group, LLC, 1800829-5384, EnvironmentalNutrition.com. © 2022 Belvoir Media Group. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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Active body and mind delays dementia By Andrew E. Budson, M.D. There is new evidence from two studies by investigators at Rush University in

Chicago that cognitive and physical activities can make a real difference in the development of Alzheimer’s disease — the

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Cognitive activity delays onset In the first study, investigators asked 1,903 older individuals without dementia in the Rush Memor y and Aging Project to report how often they participated in cognitively stimulating activities. These individuals were 75% women, 89% white and of non-Latino descent, and had a median income between $35,000 and $49,999. The cognitively stimulating activities measured were how often they spent reading, visiting a library, reading newspapers, reading magazines, reading books, writing letters, and playing games (like checkers, board games, cards, puzzles, etc.). Over about seven years, the investigators found that 457 individuals were clinically diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. Importantly, those individuals with high levels of cognitive activity (top 10%) developed Alzheimer’s at an average age of 93.6 years — five years later than those individuals with low levels of cognitive activity (bottom 10%), who developed the disease at an average of 88.6 years. This carefully conducted study controlled for education, early life cognitive activity, social activity and loneliness. It also looked for “reverse causality” — that

is, whether their finding was due to the possibility that those people who had more Alzheimer’s pathology (the amyloid plaques and tau tangles that can be seen under a microscope) were likely to stop participating in cognitive activities several years prior to their diagnosis. Autopsy pathology data was available for 695 of the 1,903 individuals. The investigators found that the amount of pathology from Alzheimer’s and other disorders was not related to cognitive activity. The authors concluded that a cognitively active lifestyle in old age may boost cognitive reserve, delaying the onset of clinical Alzheimer’s disease by up to five years.

Physical activity slows decline In the second study, a different group of investigators examined physical activity, total tau concentration in the blood (a marker of Alzheimer’s pathology), and cognitive function in 1,159 participants in the Chicago Health and Aging Project. These individuals were 63% women, 60% African American, and, on average, 77 years old. Among the participants, 31% reported little or no physical activity, 34.5% reported medium physical activity (less than 150 minSee DEMENTIA, page 5

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Experiment shrinks tough-to-treat cancer By Lauran Neergaard In a novel experiment, a woman with advanced pancreatic cancer saw her tumors dramatically shrink after researchers in Oregon turbocharged her own immune cells, highlighting a possible new way to someday treat a variety of cancers. Kathy Wilkes isn’t cured, but said what’s left of her cancer has shown no sign of growth since the one-time treatment last summer. “I knew that regular chemotherapy

would not save my life, and I was going for the save,” said Wilkes, of Ormond Beach, Florida, who tracked down a scientist thousands of miles away and asked that he attempt the experiment. The research, published in June in the New England Journal of Medicine, explores a new method of harnessing the immune system to create “living drugs” able to seek and destroy tumors. “It’s really exciting. It’s the first time this sort of treatment has worked in a very dif-

Dementia

blood in the second), individuals who were more cognitively and physically active were able to delay their clinical Alzheimer’s disease diagnosis and cognitive decline. This means that even if you are likely by family history (or bad luck) to develop Alzheimer’s disease at some point in your life, you can delay the onset of the disease by staying cognitively and physically active — and you can start at any age. So, ramp up your cognitive activities, increase your physical activities, engage in a brain-healthy lifestyle, and take control of your cognitive destiny today! © 2022 Harvard University. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

ficult-to-treat cancer type,” said Dr. Josh Veatch of the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle, who wasn’t involved with the experiment. It’s just a first step and far more research is needed, he cautioned, noting that Wilkes is one of only two people known to have tried this exact approach — and it failed in the other patient. Still, Veatch said the findings are “a proof of principle that this is possible” and said that other researchers also are testing

this type of immunotherapy.

How immune system fights cancer T cells are key immune soldiers, able to kill off diseased cells — but too often cancer evades them. Doctors already have learned how to strengthen T cells to fight some types of leukemia and lymphoma. They add an artificial receptor to patients’ T cells so the imSee CANCER, page 6

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utes/week, average 62.5 minutes/week), and 34.5% reported high physical activity (at least 150 minutes/week, average 327.5 minutes/week). The results showed that whether individuals had high or low levels of tau in their blood, increased physical activity was associated with a slower rate of cognitive decline.

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Cancer From page 5 mune fighters can recognize a marker on the outside of blood cancer cells and attack. But that CAR-T therapy doesn’t work against more common solid tumors, which don’t carry that same danger marker. The new twist: At Oregon’s Providence Cancer Institute, researcher Eric Tran ge-

AUGUST 2022 — BALTIMORE BEACON

netically engineered Wilkes’ T cells so they could spot a mutant protein that’s hidden inside her tumor cells — and only there, not in healthy cells. How? Certain molecules sit on the surface of cells and give the immune system a sneak peek of what proteins are inside. If a complex receptor on the T cell recognizes both the person’s genetically distinct “HLA” molecule and that one of the protein snip-

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COVID VACCINE CLINIC Need a COVID-19 vaccine or booster? The Baltimore County Public Library is working with the Maryland Department of Health to

administer COVID-19 vaccines and boosters to ages 12 and up. Walk-ins are welcome, but registration is recommended. Bring your health insurance card (if you have one) and identification. If you are receiving a second dose or booster, bring your vaccination card. The clinic will be held Sat., July 23 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Arbutus Branch, 855 Sulphur Spring Rd., Arbutus, MD. For more information, call 1855-634-6829 or visit coronavirus.maryland.gov/pages/vaccine.

pets embedded in it is the targeted mutant, that immune fighter can latch on. It’s an approach known as T cell receptor, or TCR, therapy. Tran stressed that the research remains highly experimental but said Wilkes’ remarkable response “provides me with optimism that we’re on the right track.”

Targeting mutations Dr. Eric Rubin, the New England Journal’s top editor, said the study raises the possibility of eventually being able to target multiple cancer-causing mutations. “We’re talking about the chance to distinguish tumor cells from non-tumor cells in a way that we never could before,” he said. Wilkes underwent chemotherapy, radiation and surgery for her pancreatic cancer. Later doctors discovered new tumors in her lungs — the pancreatic cancer had spread, a stage when there is no good treatment. Wilkes knew researchers were testing immunotherapy to fight different hard-totreat tumors, and a biopsy showed a specif-

ic mutation was fueling her cancer. Her search led to Tran, who in 2016 had co-authored a study about a subset of T cells that naturally harbored receptors able to spot that same so-called KRAS mutation. Wilkes also had the right type of HLA molecule. So, Tran and his colleague Dr. Rom Leidner, an oncologist, got Food and Drug Administration permission to reprogram her T cells to bear the special mutant-fighting receptor. They culled T cells from Wilkes’ blood, genetically engineered them in the lab and then grew billions of copies. Six months after a transfusion of the altered cells, her tumors had shrunk by 72% — and Wilkes said recent checkups show her disease remains stable. Tran said it’s not clear why the experiment failed in another patient, although lessons from that case prompted some changes to Wilkes’ treatment. The Oregon team has opened a small study to further test TCR therapy for patients with incurable cancers fueled by what Tran calls “hot-spot” mutations. —AP

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Foods dietitians swear by for better sleep By Jill Waldbieser A balanced diet and a good night’s sleep are mainstays of healthy living. But lately research has begun to uncover just how much the former impacts the latter. A 2021 review in the journal Sleep Medicine Review concluded that eating a healthy diet was associated with better sleep quality. Few people know this better than registered dietitians, who are well-versed in the role different nutrients can play in getting to sleep and staying asleep. “Sleep and metabolism are both regulated in part by circadian rhythms,” said Christina Badaracco, MPH, RD, LDN, a Washington, D.C.-based dietitian, referring to the human body’s internal clock, which impacts hormone production and other metabolic processes. “We’ve also recently learned that our gut microbiota — which are modified through our diet, among other factors — regulate aspects of our sleep. The specific types of foods and beverages we consume, as well as their quantity and timing, affect our sleep quality and duration.” In general, research has found that eating in line with the Mediterranean or DASH diet — both of which promote fruits and vegetables, whole foods and nutrients such as fiber, and healthy mono- and

polyunsaturated fats — tends to be associated with better-quality sleep. Meanwhile, the typical Western diet has been linked to more restless nights. “While there won’t be a single food that is going to be a magic bullet to getting people to sleep, focusing on certain nutrients may actually help the body experience an easier time falling asleep or getting betterquality rest at night,” said Lauren Manaker, MS, RDN, LD, a Charleston-based registered dietitian. It’s best to eat a few hours prior to bedtime to avoid having digestive issues interfere with your sleep and to allow the nutrients to be digested. Here are some favorite pre-bedtime snacks registered dietitians enjoy when they want to sleep right:

Banana, nut butter and cinnamon One of the more well-known sleep-promoting nutrients is tryptophan, an essential amino acid (aka protein building block) that plays a role in the production of serotonin and melatonin, Badaracco said. While you may associate tryptophan with turkey and post-Thanksgiving food comas, it’s also found in foods like bananas, oats and cheese. Adding a little no-added-sugar nut butter gives you a hit of magnesium, a mineral

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July 25

CHANGES IN MEDICARE

Feeling confused about changes to Medicare? Baltimore County Public Library is hosting State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIP) for a presentation on Medicare and its changes for the year. This presentation is intended for those who have been on Medicare for several years, not newcomers. The free hour-long presentation takes place on Mon., July 25 from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. at the Rosedale Branch, 6105 Kenwood Ave., Rosedale, MD. For more information, call (410) 887-0512 or visit bcpl.info/locations/rosedale.

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that promotes relaxation. A sprinkle of cinnamon can add flavor and anti-inflammatory benefit as well.

Whole-wheat avocado toast with pumpkin seeds “Magnesium, a mineral that we obtain via our diet, helps regulate melatonin, a hormone that plays a key role in sleep,” Manaker said. “It also plays a role in activating the parasympathetic nervous system, ultimately helping people feel calm.” Both avocado and pumpkin seeds are good sources of magnesium, and make a winning combination on whole-wheat toast. Plus, the avocado’s healthy fats are satiating enough to prevent hunger pangs from striking later in the evening.

Oatmeal with milk, ginger and honey Whole grains such as oats increase the production of serotonin, a hormone that relaxes the nerves and tells the brain it’s time to sleep, said Karla Giboyeaux, MA, RDN, a dietitian based in New York City. Meanwhile, quicker-digesting carbohydrates such as honey and the lactose in milk stimulate insulin release, which in turn allows tryptophan to enter the brain, where it can produce more serotonin. That means this combination doubles your sleepiness factor. EatingWell is a magazine and website devoted to healthy eating as a way of life. Online at eatingwell.com. © 2022 Meredith Corporation. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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AUGUST 2022 — BALTIMORE BEACON

Is hyperbaric oxygen therapy effective? By Paul Claus, M.D. Dear Mayo Clinic: What is hyperbaric oxygen therapy? What is it used for? A: Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized room to increase a person’s bloodoxygen level. The body’s tissues need an adequate supply of oxygen to function. When tissues are injured, they require more oxygen than usual to survive. HBOT increases the amount of oxygen the blood can carry to tissues. Historically, hyperbaric oxygen therapy has been used for deep-sea divers who experience decompression sickness —also known as “the bends” — which occurs when dissolved nitrogen gas bubbles form in the body’s tissues when a diver returns to the water surface too quickly. But HBOT can be used to treat an as-

sortment of other medical conditions, too, including serious infections, bubbles of air in the blood vessels (arterial gas embolism), wounds that won’t heal due to diabetes or radiation injury, carbon monoxide poisoning, crush injuries, gangrene, brain abscesses, burns, skin grafts or skin flaps at risk of tissue death, and severe anemia.

Oxygen stimulates healing In a hyperbaric oxygen therapy room, the air pressure is raised up to three times higher than normal. Under these conditions, the lungs can gather up to three times more oxygen than would be possible breathing pure oxygen at normal air pressure. The increased oxygen dissolves in the blood and circulates throughout the body. The oxygen-rich blood stimulates the body to release growth factors and stem cells,

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Ongoing

GRIEF SUPPORT

If you or anyone you know is grieving a loved one, Valley Presbyterian Church is offering a free, in-person program to help with grief support. The group meets each Tuesday from 12 to 2 p.m. to focus on a different topic. There is a $15 workbook recommended for the program. Registration is preferred, but not necessary. To register and find more information, contact (410) 828-6234 or email church.office@valleycpa.org or visit griefshare.org.

Specialized outpatient care for non-healing wounds including Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Wound Care We provide treatments to promote healing of chronic wounds and help patients recover as quickly as possible.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy is a painless medical therapy that enhances the body’s natural healing process by breathing in 100% oxygen in a pressurized chamber. Millions of Americans suffer from non-healing wounds – cardiac patients, diabetics, amputees, surgical patients, cancer survivors and others. Non-healing wounds can cause deeper skin erosion, infection and complications damaging to organs and limbs, and can even be life threatening.

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which help heal wounds and fight infection. HBOT is typically performed as an outpatient procedure and doesn’t require hospitalization. Depending on the type of medical institution and the reason for treatment, HBOT can be administered either in a unit designed for one person or in a room that can accommodate several people. In an individual HBOT unit, the patient lies down on a padded table that slides into a clear plastic tube about 7 feet long. In a multi-person HBOT room — which usually looks like a hospital waiting room — the patient sits or lies down. A lightweight, clear hood may be placed over the patient’s head to deliver the oxygen, or oxygen may be administered through a mask. To be effective, hyperbaric oxygen therapy requires more than one session. The number of HBOT sessions depends on the medical condition. For example, carbon monoxide poisoning can be treated in as few as three visits. Other conditions, such as non-healing wounds, may require 25 to 30 treatments. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy alone can often effectively treat decompression sickness, arterial gas embolism and severe carbon monoxide poisoning. But to effectively treat other conditions, hyperbaric oxygen therapy is used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan and is

administered in conjunction with additional therapies and medications tailored to the patient’s needs.

FDA-approved treatments The FDA has approved HBOT to treat 14 to 16 conditions ranging from burns to bone disease. More research regarding hyperbaric oxygen therapy is under way, including a study at NIH on its effect on traumatic brain injuries. HBOT is offered in various hospitals in the Baltimore area. “It’s highly underutilized,” said Dr. Ziad Mirza, chief medical officer at MVS Wound Care and Hyperbarics in Lutherville. But the therapy can be “a wakeup call for our cellular signaling and our immune system,” Mirza said. “I’ve seen it work.” If you have questions about HBOT, talk to your doctor. For more details, reliable information is available on the Undersea & Hyperbaric Medical Society’s Web site (uhms.org). — Paul Claus, M.D., Hyperbaric and Altitude Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota. Beacon staff contributed to this article. © Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. All rights reserved. Distributed By Tribune Media Services, Inc.

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BALTIMORE BEACON — AUGUST 2022

Health Studies INFORMATION ON AREA CLINICAL TRIALS Study pairs flu shot Cognition And Metabolism in Prediabetes and shingles vaccine (CAMPS) Study By Margaret Foster Last month, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a new recommendation: People over age 65 should get a stronger flu vaccine than the general public. Why? Because they’re more likely to suffer serious complications from the flu. That’s because our immune systems don’t work as well as we age. “As we get older, our ability to respond to vaccines — especially influenza vaccines — really decreases because our immune system ages with us,” said Dr. Kawsar Talaat, a Johns Hopkins University associate professor whose research focuses on vaccines. Adults over 50 are also vulnerable to shingles, so shingles vaccines are recommended, too. A relatively new shingles vaccine called Shingrix was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in October 2017. So far, no one has ever studied the side effects of getting a seasonal flu vaccine at the same time as Shingrix — until now.

Study seeks local volunteers This fall, Hopkins researchers want to find out which of two FDA-approved flu vaccines (a high-dose and one called FLUAD) has fewer side effects when administered with Shingrix. “This study wants to see if there’s any difference in the side effects after vaccination if you get Shingrix and the FLUAD or the Shingrix and the high-boost vaccine,” explained Talaat, principal investigator of the Johns Hopkins arm of the study, which plans to enroll 180 adults. The three-month study is blinded,

meaning participants won’t know which flu vaccine — the high-dose or the FLUAD — they’re receiving. “Either way, they’re getting a good vaccine,” Talaat said. “These vaccines have both been shown to be more effective than a regular flu vaccine in people over 65.”

Four visits to Hopkins The study requires four in-person visits to the Johns Hopkins Bayview Campus. Parking fees will be reimbursed, and participants will be compensated for their time. While the first visit will last several hours, the other three will take about an hour. At the first visit “we get to know the volunteers, and we have to go through their medical history…so that can take time,” Talaat said. In addition, the first visit will include a standardized physical exam; participants will walk a short distance, stand up from a chair, etc. They’ll also have blood drawn. They’ll return two months later to get the second and final dose of Shingrix. Between visits, researchers will check in by phone five times. Study participants will complete a “quality of life” survey at home during the week after receiving the vaccines. Who’s eligible for the study? People over 65 who are generally healthy — and who want to get free, excellent vaccines before flu season arrives. The study is enrolling people who have never received the Shingrix vaccine and haven’t yet had their flu vaccine this year. For more information or to volunteer, email JHSPH.projectSAVE@jhu.edu or call (410) 955-7283.

Write a letter to the editor. See page 2.

BALANCE AND MEMORY! J O H N S H O PK I N S U N I VE R S I TY

We are studying why falls and balance disorders occur in older adults with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementia and how falls impact their lives.

For information call 410-605-7179. Mention “CAMPS”

Trouble with balance? Falls? Afraid of falling? Three research studies investigating how and why people fall are currently enrolling test subjects. We seek: • Individuals 60-86 years old who have suffered an ischemic stroke and are able to walk • Individuals 60-86 years old who are free from neurological conditions such as stroke and Parkinson’s disease who have fallen two or more times in the past year Young healthy individuals 20-40 years old who have not fallen •

Please call 410-605-7179 and mention “BALRCH” These studies are being conducted in conjunction with the Veterans Health Administration VA Maryland Healthy Care System and the University of Maryland School of Medicine.

We provide compensation up to $100 for our participants.

Approved October 25, 2021

If so, you may be eligible for a new research study in which you learn about your daily blood sugar fluctuations and cognitive abilities. Receive $100 for participating.

For your participation you will receive • A health evaluation and fall risk assessment • Up to $100 in compensation • Free parking

Individuals 60+ may be able to join our research study. We take the burden of travel away from you by traveling to your home (if desired).

For more information call 410-614-9825 Or email vhorta1@jhmi.edu

` Are you 50 years or older? ` Are you relatively healthy, without a diabetes diagnosis?

DATE: SEPTEMBER 9, 2021 PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR: YURI AGRAWAL, MD APPLICATION NO.: NA_00087648

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AUGUST 2022 — BALTIMORE BEACON

08Nov2021_Talaat_16778_MOD1674_ Amendment Approved

PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR A SHINGRIX AND INFLUENZA VACCINE STUDY This research study aims to compare the safety of administering Shingrix (shingles vaccine)at the same time as FLUAD® or Fluzone® High-Dose influenza vaccines in older people

Who is eligible?

Time commitment

If you are 65 years or older, have not yet received a Shingrix (shingles) vaccine and have not received this year’s flu shot, you may be eligible for the study

This study occurs over 3.5 months with 4 clinic visits and 5 phone calls

Benefits to participating If you enroll you will receive the Shingrix and Influenze vaccines free of charge as well as earn up to $325

The PI for this study is Dr. Kawsar Talaat. All clinic visits will take place at the Center for Immunization Research site at the Johns Hopkins Bayview Campus, located at 301 Mason Lord Drive, Suite 4300, Baltimore, MD 21224

If you are interested in participating, please email JHSPH.projectSAVE@jhu.edu or call 410-955-7283

BALTIMORE BEACON — AUGUST 2022

Makes a great gift! | Fitness & Health

Cold all the time? Some answers and tips By Howard LeWine, M.D. Q: I am cold all the time. Sometimes I get so cold that all I can do is take a really hot shower or bath. It has gotten to the point where being so sensitive to the cold interferes with my work and life. What causes this problem, and what can I do? A: While feeling colder than others around you is quite common, your symptoms are more pronounced than usual. Therefore, I would definitely suggest a

visit with your doctor. Here are some of the more common reasons for feeling colder than normal: Low body weight. Both fat thickness and muscle mass assist in keeping us warm. Muscle activity generates heat and fat acts as insulation. If you have lost a lot of weight recently or you have always been thin, you might be sensitive to ambient temperatures. Skipping meals. Some people get cold when they skip meals or take in too few

Exercise Research at the University of Maryland Supervised Exercise Research at the University of Maryland, Baltimore and University of Maryland College Park. Men & women 65-88 years old needed to participate in exercise research study at the University of Maryland / Baltimore VA Medical Center. Participation involves tests to measure your fitness and function. You will receive medical and fitness evaluations. Parking and compensation for your time are provided. Please call 410-605-7179 Mention code SARCOPENIA

calories. The body conserves energy and produces less heat in response to fasting. Being overly tired. Not getting enough sleep and feeling tired all the time may be contributing to the cold feeling. An underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism). Feeling cold can be a symptom of hypothyroidism. A simple blood test for TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) can determine if you have this problem. Raynaud’s phenomenon. The normal response to cold temperatures is to

shunt blood away from the skin to keep the internal organs warm. In people with Raynaud’s phenomenon, that natural response is extreme. One or more digits turn white or blue, temporarily. People with Raynaud’s tend to be much more sensitive to even minor drops in air temperature than other people. In addition to wearing gloves and thick socks, they need to wear lots of layers of clothing. © 2022 Harvard University. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

AUGUST 2022 — BALTIMORE BEACON

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Money Law &

Why older cell phone models may stop working this year. See story on page 13.

How to protect your portfolio this year I have received many questions about in- How rising interest rates hurt vestment strategies for the rest of 2022. It’s It is likely that the Federal Reserve will no secret that the values of continue to increase shortmany equities, as well as term interest rates in 2022 in bonds, have fallen significantly order to keep inflation under since the beginning of the year. control. In the short-run, as Investors want to know if interest rates increase, the they should be selling some of value of long-term bonds will their equity and bond holdcontinue to decrease. ings — or should they be inSo, if you want to protect vesting more because there is the value of your current a high probability that equity holding of bond mutual funds prices and bond prices will and exchange traded funds, THE SAVINGS start increasing in value in the you could switch your bond GAME near-future? holdings to shorter maturities By Elliot Raphaelson It is not likely that inflation and hold off new investments will quickly return to much lower levels in in bond holdings with long maturities. the near future. Also, it is not likely that In my own portfolio, I have switched the war in Ukraine will end quickly, result- from long-term holdings to shorter maturiing in lower energy costs. Even though eq- ties. In the long run, higher interest rates uity prices have fallen, may experts be- will provide more income for bond holdlieve that the value of equities are still too ings with long maturities. But in the short high, and can fall further. run, increases in interest rates will deThe bottom line is that no one can pre- crease the value of bond investments with dict with certainty when equity and bond long maturities. values will start recovering in value, and Even experts cannot predict when equiwhether it makes sense to start buying ty prices will stop falling. In the long run, more equities and bond investments now. equity prices have, on average, increased

more than the inflation rate. For investors who have assets or income sources to invest on a long-term basis, investment in equities makes sense. However, it is prudent to use “dollarcost-averaging” — investing a fixed amount each month rather than investing a large amount at one time. Equity prices may not have reached the bottom; many experts expect that these values will continue to fall in the short run. Personally, I continue to use dollar cost averaging into mutual funds/ETFs. I believe they will increase in value in the longrun. Even if the equities fall in value in the short run, I will be investing at lower prices through this ongoing method of purchase.

When rising interest rates help A few investments benefit from inflation, because their interest rates are adjusted based on inflation. For months I have written about Series I bonds, issued by the U.S. Treasury. The return on these bonds changes each six months. These bonds earn two types of interest.

First, there’s a fixed rate of interest for the life of the bond. But there is also a rate of interest that changes every six months based on the non-seasonally adjusted consumer price index for all urban consumers (CPI-U). The advantage of investing in these bonds is that you can never lose the principal amount you invest, regardless of what happens to the Consumer Price Index or interest rates. Compare this to investments in longterm bond funds/ETFs. The value of these investments has fallen dramatically because interest rates increased. As I have said previously [see February Beacon, “A good time for inflation-protected bonds”], you can only invest $10,000 per year in I bonds ($20,000 for a joint return). But it is a long-term investment. You have to invest for at least a year, and if you sell before five years, you lose three months interest. See the U.S. Treasury website, TreasuryDirect.gov, for more information. [There you can also learn about Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities (TIPS), another investment whose return rises with inflation.]

Makes a great gift! | Law & Money

BALTIMORE BEACON — AUGUST 2022

Your old cellphone may not work in 2022 By Jim Miller Dear Savvy Senior, My 80-year-old father has an old flip phone he carries around with him for emergency purposes, but I’ve heard that these devices will soon be phased out. Is this true? If so, how can we know if his phone will be affected, and where can I find him a simple new one that he can operate? —Searching Daughter Dear Searching, Yes, it’s true! If your dad’s mobile phone is more than a few years old, he will probably need to upgrade it in the very near future. Why? Because all of the major cell phone carriers — AT&T, Verizon and TMobile — are shutting down their older 3G networks in 2022 to free up airwaves for 5G and other advanced services. So, if your dad is using an old 3G phone, like millions of other older Americans, he’ll need to get a new device if he wants to make calls, text or reach 911. But you should also know that it’s not just older cellphones that will be obsolete. Older home security systems, medical devices and personal emergency response systems that still harness 3G will also be affected. Adding to the confusion, older 4G phones that don’t support modern cellular

voice technologies, such as Voice Over LTE or HD Voice, are impacted, too. Those customers may need a software upgrade or a new phone. Here are the timelines for the 3G shutdowns, some of which have already occurred: AT&T - Feb. 2022; Sprint - March 31, 2022; Sprint LTE - June 30, 2022; T-Mobile - July 1, 2022; and Verizon - Dec. 31, 2022; Other smaller carriers, like Tracfone, Cricket, Boost and Straight Talk, will also be affected because they rely on airwaves from the big three.

Is your phone affected? Cellphone carriers say they have been alerting customers who use older phones that services are ending, sending a combination of texts, letters, phone calls and emails. If you’re not sure about your dad’s phone, contact his carrier or check their website for a list of affected devices. Another way to see if your dad’s phone is 3G is to look up his international mobile equipment identity number, which can be found by pressing *#06# on his keypad. Once you have it, go to imei.info and type the ID number in the search bar to get the phone’s details. If his phone has a frequency of 900 megahertz (MHz) or 2100 MHz, it’s 3G. You can also look for a “3G” icon at the top corner of his phone,

but not all 3G phones have that icon.

How to upgrade If you find that you do need to upgrade your dad’s cellphone, carriers are offering discounts and special promotions on replacement devices. If you’re worried about your dad having to learn his way around a new device, you’ll be happy to know that there are plenty of modern new flip phones available that work on the next-generation networks.

Or, if your dad decides that he would rather forge ahead without a phone than upgrade, he will need to cancel his service. Most carriers will let you cancel your plan without any penalty. However, if he forgets to cancel his phone plan and doesn’t upgrade to a working device, the company won’t automatically stop charging him just because he isn’t able to access their network. See OLD PHONES, page 14

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Life insurance and retirement planning By Elliot Raphaelson There are many reasons why families entering retirement should re-evaluate their life insurance needs. First and foremost, retirees are generally living longer, especially women, so it is important that retirement plans consider the fact that one or both spouses may live into their 90s. Inflation has not been a major retirementplanning factor for some time — until recently. This year, inflation has risen substantially, and it is likely that it will continue rising. Higher inflation rates mean that retirees either need to earn more on their investments or cut back on their standard of living. Even though, on average, life spans have been increasing, every retirement plan has to take into consideration the possibility that one of the spouses may have an early, untimely death. The death of the previous

breadwinner can have a significant impact on the income of the surviving spouse.

Social Security not enough One reason is the impact on Social Security income. Many people believe that because of Social Security survivor benefits, a surviving spouse would not lose any income; this is not true. While a surviving spouse is eligible for Social Security survivor options, the surviving spouse would only be eligible for the maximum benefit after reaching full retirement age (likely 67). The benefit is available at 60, but at that point it is discounted a great deal. In addition, the surviving spouse would not be eligible for both a survivor benefit and the benefit he or she is receiving, either based on work record or a spousal benefit. He or she would only be entitled to

whichever amount is greater, not both. Another issue is pension income from the main breadwinner. The deceased spouse hopefully elected a survivor pension benefit, but that benefit is likely to be less than the pension the deceased spouse was receiving. For these reasons, a surviving spouse may be looking at a much smaller income in retirement after a partner has died earlier than expected. Life insurance proceeds can help a great deal. Barry Flagg, CFP, CLU, founder of Veralytic, an independent life insurance research company based in Tampa, Fla., was a recent guest contributor to Ed Slott’s monthly IRA Advisor newsletter (irahelp.com) to discuss why life insurance has become more meaningful for beneficiaries. He pointed out that life insurance is the only asset that matures at the same time

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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

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that a need for cash arises. Flagg suggested that dual-income families seriously consider insuring both family members in order to secure the lifestyle the family is used to in the event of an untimely death. He pointed out that retirees can purchase life insurance online and in some cases without a medical exam.

Several tax benefits He cited a joint 2021 “barometer study” conducted by LIMRA (a financial services trade group) and Life Happens (an insurance trade group) that indicates that 47% of Americans say they put off purchasing life insurance they need, despite the fact that certain policies have tax preferences that are unique to life insurance. For example, life insurance proceeds are exempt from federal taxes. Flagg discussed the possibility that there may be changes to the estate tax laws that would have a negative effect on some beneficiaries. However, the use of an irrevocable life insurance trust would avoid estate tax. According to Flagg, a spousal lifetime access trust (SLAT) could provide married couples with access to policy account values for retirement while still exempting death benefits from estate tax. Flagg indicated that families could use low-cost investment products with the “best available rates and terms” and potentially double the death benefit with the same premium, or add benefits such as long-term care. When no longer needed, excess account values can be allocated to other investments while maintaining the same death benefit. There are many tools available to ensure a prosperous retirement. Life insurance is one of the tools that is underappreciated by many retirees, especially those who retire young. It is much more cost effective to buy life insurance either prior to retiring or in the early phases of retirement. At 65, I purchased a 20-year term policy to protect my beneficiaries, including my spouse, at very reasonable rates that would have been much too expensive later. © Elliot Raphaelson. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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

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Old phones From page 13

How to recycle old phones If your dad does have to replace his old cellphone, the best way to dispose of it is to recycle it. Large retailers, such as Best Buy, offer recycling programs for old electronics. Or you can search for local recycling programs on websites like Call2Recycle.org and Earth911.com. 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.

Makes a great gift! | Law & Money

BALTIMORE BEACON — AUGUST 2022

Indeed, you can haggle for almost anything By Katherine Reynolds Lewis Haggling over prices isn’t just for people buying cars or houses. Think bigger. You can negotiate for just about any product or service: cable and cellphone bills, credit card interest rates, even your rent. You just need to borrow these triedand-true methods of savvy negotiators. Talk less, listen more. Ask open-ended questions rather than ones that might yield an abrupt yes or no response. A common mistake is to ask, “Do you have flexibility?” said Kwame Christian, director of the American Negotiation Institute and author of Finding Confidence in Conflict: How to Negotiate Anything and Live Your Best Life.

Instead ask, “What flexibility do you have?” This sets the conversation off with the assumption that there is always some wiggle room. You’ll find out just how much room there is by listening more and talking less. That lets the other person reveal more information that you can use to drive a bargain. Know when to walk away. Before negotiating, research market conditions and prices. Sellers of products with a large profit margin and short shelf life usually have more flexibility with pricing — think seasonal items, perishables, and consumer electronics that are quickly updated and made obsolete. Consider how the deal looks from

the other side. What are the barriers to agreement, and what might prompt the seller to reconsider? If your offer gets rejected, ask, “Is there a price you would accept?” The best negotiators stand their ground, so practice saying no. Launch a charm offensive. Studies show that when people do business with someone they like, they’re more inclined to discount the price. So introduce yourself by name; ask the

name of the clerk. If you realize you need to speak to a manager to get a discount, promise to put in a good word for the person who has been helping you. You can ramp up the charm by empathizing with the other person’s position. If possible, when you negotiate, emphasize your long-standing tenure as a customer and ask about the options for lower fees, better rates or improved terms. © The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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AUGUST 2022 — BALTIMORE BEACON

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PHOTO BY DANA HALFERTY

Travel Leisure &

Hike, kayak or rest in the San Juan Islands. See story on opposite page.

A visit to Cairo and cruise down the Nile lowed with Overseas Adventure Travel (OAT), we returned home with a sense of awe at Egypt’s most iconic attractions, an appreciation of its fascinating culture, and a new awareness of below-the-radar appeals that can be overlooked in the hoopla over its more celebrated draws.

Cairo’s main attraction

Cairo, population 10 million, makes for a lively home base for tourists who want to see the Great Pyramids in Giza, a Cairo suburb. Traveling with a bilingual guide offers the chance to talk to and mingle with locals.

Luxor, located on the Nile River, is known as the world’s greatest open-air museum. Built on the ancient city of Thebes, Luxor preserves two temples on one side of the river as well as the Valley of the Kings and the Valley of the Queens on the other bank.

PHOTO BY GILBERT SOPAKUWA

The first view of the pyramids immediately makes clear why they’re included among the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, a listing first compiled in 225 B.C.E. The Great Pyramid is one of more than 100 throughout the country and the largest of three at Giza, a suburb of Cairo. It was built more than 4,000 years ago to serve as the tomb of Pharaoh Khufu (Cheops). Its size alone — the original 481-foot height was equal to a 48-story building — accounts for much of its claim to fame. Standing at the base of this massive structure adds to the appreciation of what architects designed, and what men using primitive tools created, so long ago. How did workers cut 2.3 million massive stones, move them to the building site and elevate them up the sides of the pyramid as it grew? Lying in the shadow of the Giza pyramids is another world-class treasure. The

PHOTO © VLADIMIR KOROSTYSHEVSKIY | DREAMSTIME.COM

By Victor Block My first impression on the ride from the Cairo airport to my hotel was: Big city. Cars and motorcycles battled for space in the traffic, their horns raising a constant din. Lighted signs for McDonald’s, Burger King and other familiar fast-food restaurants vied for attention with billboards touting trendy women’s fashions. Gradually, more anticipated touches of the destination began to catch my attention. Street vendors maneuvered pushcarts laden with foods that were new to my eye. Towering minarets pierced the skyline. Ramshackle apartment buildings draped with laundry drying in the sun stood next to modern high-rise hotels. Welcome to Egypt — land of pyramids and pharaohs, a millennia-long history, and present-day life that keeps one foot planted in the past as it strides toward the future. The goal of most people who travel to this ancient land is to see the pyramids, Sphinx and other storied monuments, and perhaps take a felucca ride on the Nile River. Others hope to meet and mingle with people who live as they have for centuries, merging ageless traditions with modern mores. After experiencing the inclusive twoweek itinerary that my wife Fyllis and I fol-

Great Sphinx, a mythological creature carved from a single piece of limestone, dates back at least to 2,500 B.C.E., and some geologists believe even earlier. Featuring a lion’s body and human head adorned with a royal headdress, the 240foot-long figure is among the largest sculptures found anywhere.

Papyrus and mummies A wealth of information about everything Egyptian awaits discovery at two outstanding museums in Cairo. Displays at the Museum of Egyptian Antiquities (commonly known as the Cairo Museum) range from coins and bits of papyrus that display Greek, Latin, Arabic and other languages to life-size statues and sarcophagi (the heavily decorated coffins prepared for mummies). Speaking of which, the main attraction at the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization is a collection of 22 mummies that have been recovered from their original resting places and put on display. They include 18 kings and four queens, whose preserved bodies rest in repose. Gazing at these once-powerful rulers, my imagination pictured them coming to life after the museum closes to recall their days as leaders of great civilizations. This museum also houses collections

gathered from other institutions that tell the story of civilization in the region from prehistoric times to the present.

Advantages of group travel Along with Egypt’s ancient artifacts and historical accomplishments, introductions to contemporary everyday life add to the enjoyment and education of a visit to this fascinating society. For me, going with a tour group enhances the experience. In addition to the must-see places and activities, our itinerary included some that are below the usual tourist radar. Our congenial, knowledgeable local guide, Hussein — who is well on his way to earning a Ph.D. in Egyptology — went out of his way to establish ad hoc encounters with everyday Egyptians. Several times, he randomly approached locals, asked if they would be willing to speak with visitors from the United States, and served as interpreter. Among results of these chance meetings, I gleaned information about topics ranging from education (we met several young people whose accomplishments and aspirations speak well for Egypt’s future), to women’s rights (they are slowly improving). See EGYPT, page 18

Makes a great gift! | Leisure & Travel

BALTIMORE BEACON — AUGUST 2022

A serene sojourn on San Juan Island Whale watching and sightseeing The two-hour kayak tour, conducted by San Juan Islands Outfitters (sanjuanislandoutfitters.com), was the highlight of the trip for me. My second favorite experience was a morning visit to Lime Kiln Point State Park (parks.state.wa.us/540/Lime-KilnPoint), also known as Whale Watch Park. Located on the western shore of the island, the park overlooks Haro Strait, which runs between San Juan Island and Vancouver Island and serves as a highway for whales commuting between the Gulf of Alaska and the Baja Peninsula. It must have been a whale holiday since we didn’t see anyone commuting, but the scenery was well worth the visit. With its 180-degree-plus view, it was a great place to just sit and gaze across the water to Vancouver Island and the Olympic Peninsula, whales or not. Aside from the sounds of the waves lapping on shore and the occasional murmur from other whale watchers, it was quiet and peaceful. I think views across water to distant lands are especially comforting to what remains of our primeval minds, offering as they do the promise of new lands and a new life. The Pacific Northwest is also known for its fresh seafood, vegetables and fruit — especially berries, my favorite. I indulged as often as possible, most notably at Downriggers restaurant (downriggerssanjuan.com) in Friday Harbor, the only town on the island. On two visits to the restaurant, I ate mussels, clams, oysters, salmon, and their outrageously excellent mixed berry crisp with vanilla ice cream — twice. Two other notable places to eat were the Limekiln Café and the Madrona Bar and Grill (rocheharbor.com/dining) in historic Roche Harbor — a resort and residential

PHOTO © MICKEM | DREAMSTIME.COM

By Don Mankin I sat motionless in my kayak, quietly gazing at the subdued land and seascape. The sky was grey, the water was flat, the wind was absent. Heaven. The heavy skies and occasional drizzle didn’t bother me. It was all just part of the moody ambience of the Pacific Northwest. I was midway through a three-day visit to San Juan Island in Washington State. The San Juan Islands — which include San Juan, Orcas and Lopez Islands, among others — are an archipelago just an hour and half drive plus an hour’s ferry ride from Seattle. There are few destinations where getting there is part of the attraction. You drive onto the ferry, leave your car, walk up to one of the decks and plop down on a plush banquette to watch the scenery glide by as the ferry wends its way among tree-covered islands to your destination. If you are particularly hardy, you can stand on a wind-swept outer deck, immersed in the slowly changing scenery flowing through your field of vision, fully experiencing the sights, sounds and smells of the San Juan Islands. My wife, Katherine, and I were traveling with another couple, long-time friends from Oregon. The cloudy, drizzly weather wasn’t anything new for them, but for Southern Californians like us, it took a bit of getting used to. The weather was unseasonal for early May, when the climate begins shifting toward the warmer, sunnier weather of summer. As several locals lamented, “We’re getting April weather in May.” No matter. The muffled hush encouraged me to take it easy. Seinfeld’s Frank Costanza didn’t have to shout “Serenity now!” for me to get into the appropriate mood.

The town of Friday Harbor on Washington State’s San Juan Island offers scenic hikes, kayaking tours, fresh seafood and a slow pace.

development on the water at the opposite end of the island from Friday Harbor, less than a 10-mile drive away. There I was able to supplement my culinary tour of the best of the Pacific Northwest with clam chowder, fish and chips, and more steamed mussels and clams. Perhaps the most surprising culinary highlights were served at our bed and breakfast, the Inn to the Woods (inntothe-

woods.com), a charming, rustic inn tucked, as you might guess from its Broadway-inspired name, back in the woods. The breakfasts were excellent, including such delights as Dutch baby pancakes with chicken sausage, lemon blueberry pancakes, and quiche. We also visited a used bookstore bursting See SAN JUAN ISLAND, page 18

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Egypt From page 16

A day in a village One day spent with a family in a typical small village demonstrated that, while Cairo is leapfrogging toward the future, rural life continues much as it has for centuries. Subsistence farming remains the staple industry in tiny towns of modest mud brick and concrete houses. The addition of modern amenities like television and air conditioning hasn’t changed age-old practices. We saw women grinding seeds into flour between two stones and men planting crops using tools that might have been passed down for generations. Fyllis and I also spent a week aboard the Nefertiti, the OAT-owned boat that served as our home during a cruise down the Nile River. That led us to some of Egypt’s most impressive shrines and temples that lie near the riverbanks. The temple complex at Karnak, on which construction began in 19th century B.C.E.,

San Juan Island From page 17 at the seams with books of all kinds and genres, a beautifully landscaped sculpture park near Roche Harbor (sjisculpturepark.com), an excellent whale museum (whalemuseum.org), and the San Juan Island Brewery, with a wide selection of locally-brewed craft

AUGUST 2022 — BALTIMORE BEACON

encompasses shrines and monuments dedicated to a series of rulers. Walls are covered by hieroglyphics that are as deeply etched and detailed as when they were carved, and by paintings whose colors are as bright as the day they were created. The temple at Luxor, perched on the east bank of the Nile, was a center for some of Egypt’s most powerful pharaohs. They included Ramses II, whose reign lasted 67 years, and Tutankhamen (popularly known as “the boy king”), who took the throne at the age of about eight and died nine years later. The Nile cruise became another high point of our trip in other ways as well. It provided a passing parade of classic Egyptian scenes. Seated outside on our stateroom sun deck, we waved to villagers who greeted us as we floated by, spotted fishermen in tiny boats, and admired felucca, traditional wooden sailboats. We saw men sitting in the sun enjoying their morning tea and shisha (hookah)

pipe, and admired the graceful minarets that look over each low-rise village. We also came to understand how important the Nile is, and has been, in the lives of Egyptians. Without the river, there would be no fertile land, little locally grown food and electricity would be costly. Thanks to the Aswan Dam (completed in 1970), the Nile’s floodwaters can be captured during rainy seasons and released during drought. The dam also generates significant amounts of electricity. The Nile flows between a narrow stretch of verdant land along each bank, which quickly gives way to barren desert. It’s little wonder that over 90 percent of Egypt’s population lives along the Nile, on 3 percent of the country’s territory. Seeing the dramatic change from a ribbon of green winding through an arid wasteland, and visiting villagers whose lifestyles have changed little over centuries, would be reason enough to visit Egypt. Throw in its rich history, and magnificent monuments to that past, and it’s clear why the country

beers and ales (sanjuanbrew.com). All of these attractions are embedded in a countryside of lush green fields, tall forests and crystal-clear ponds and lakes surrounded on all sides by a great expanse of water.

island, I was as relaxed as I’d been in months. If you insist on sunny, warm weather for your vacations, come in late spring or summer, but expect crowds, traffic and hardto-get reservations. However, if you are like me and need every now and then to head to someplace moody and quiet to slow down and think, San Juan Island is for you.

Weather or not Despite — or perhaps because of — the unseasonable weather, by the time we left the

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If you go Egypt is generally safe for visitors, who often are greeted by passers-by with a smile. While temperatures during summer regularly pass 100 degrees, the humidity is low. In winter, overnight lows in places drop into the 50s and comfortable daytime highs are about 80. Our trip to Egypt with Overseas Adventure Travel enabled us to pack as many experiences as possible into every hour of every day. From interactions with locals, including a home-hosted dinner and farm family visit, to having most tips included, every detail was taken care of. Our 16-day tour with Nile cruise starts at $4,995/person, including international airfare. For information about Overseas Adventure Travel, call 1-800-221-0814 or visit oattravel.com. Read more about Egypt at egypt.travel. It’s also the perfect place to not think at all. You can do little more than paddle leisurely through a hushed seascape, browse languorously through musty, dogeared books, and indulge your yearnings for steamed bivalves and mixed berry crisp with vanilla ice cream. For more information, see visitsanjuans.com.

BALTIMORE BEACON — AUGUST 2022

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Arts &

Lauren Small heads a narrative medicine program at Hopkins. Our cover story continues on page 20.

SpongeBob musical is great for families Tyler of Aerosmith and Jon Legend. The musical production was conceived by Tina Landau.

Tony Award winner After opening in Chicago in 2016 and then on Broadway in 2017, the show garnered 12 Tony nominations (and one win) and closed in September 2018 after 327 performances. In its review, Variety said, “The show provides a good amount of giddy, goofy fun for all audiences.” In December 2019, SpongeBob Musical: Live on Stage! aired as a TV special featuring members of the original Broadway cast. Toby’s is a theater in the round, and every production features live music of the same high quality we’ve come to expect from the downtown Columbia gem that opened in 1979. This production at Toby’s was directed by Mark Minnick (who does most of their shows). Music direction is by Ross Scott Rawlings, choreography by David Singleton (and there is lots of lively dancing), costume design by Flo Arnold (fabulous job), sound by John Pantazis and Nathan Seavilla, and scenery by Shane Lowry. When a rumbling volcano threatens to destroy Bikini Bottom, SpongeBob and his friends invent a device to save the town. Its residents scheme, argue and finally, when the danger dissipates, apologize. The characters in the show have rather interesting names: Patchy the Pirate, Patrick Star, Larry the Lobster, Perch

PHOTO BY JERI TIDWELL PHOTGRAPHY

By Eddie Applefeld Okay, full disclosure: Before I stepped into Toby’s Dinner Theatre to see the current production of The SpongeBob Musical, I didn’t know anything about the wildly popular animated television series SpongeBob SquarePants. Not one thing. I figured I’d learn about it soon enough. And so I did. One thing is for sure: I am now better able to answer the question posed to me many times when people found out I was going to see it: “Isn’t that a show for kids?” My informed answer is, yes and no. It is most definitely family entertainment, but it’s more than just a show for kids. In fact, I saw a lot of older kids in the audience, many of them claiming to be grandparents. The TV show “SpongeBob SquarePants” was indeed created for kids. It first aired on Nickelodeon in May 1999, running for 13 seasons with 276 episodes. The humorous series chronicles the adventures of the title character and his aquatic friends in the underwater city of Bikini Bottom. It is television’s fifth-longest-running animated series and Nickelodeon’s highestrated series. Twenty years later, believe it or not, it had garnered $13 billion in merchandizing revenue. The musical is based on the animated television series created by Stephen Hillenburg, with a book by Kyle Jarrow. It also features music by many artists you’ll know: Cyndi Lauper, David Bowie, Steven

Kyle Dalsimer stars as SpongeBob SquarePants, the hero of the eponymous musical, which garnered 12 Tony Award nominations. With humor, wit and songs written by musical greats such as Cyndi Lauper, John Legend and Sara Bareilles, the show is not only for children. The SpongeBob Musical runs at Toby’s Dinner Theatre in Columbia, Maryland, through July 31.

Perkins, Sheldon Plankton, Pearl Krabs and Squidward Q. Tenacles. Let’s start with Mr. Square Pants himself, played by Kyle Dalsimer. He is on stage almost the entirety of the show, much of the time either dancing or pranc-

ing around the stage. Also showing lots of energy is Janine Sunday (playing squirrel scientist Sandy Cheeks), a four-time Helen Hayes nomiSee SPONGEBOB, page 21

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Small From page 1 what they value, what they care most about — in tailoring treatments to their needs.”

Hundreds participate in discussions The monthly “drop-in” sessions usually consist of up to 25 doctors and nurses, adding up to hundreds of front-line workers over the past eight years. Each meeting consists of a discussion of a piece of literature or art with a medical theme, followed by writing based on a shared reflection. One meeting, for example, featured paintings by Mexican artist Frida Kahlo, who suffered from chronic pain, to open a discussion about coping with pain. At another meeting, attendees watched a video of Amy Winehouse singing about her drug addiction. Along with discussing the lyrics, the group discussed how they care for patients with addiction. At the end of each session Small encourages participants to write about the topic that was covered and to share their reflections with the group. “Being able to process these experiences through art, literature, music and

AUGUST 2022 — BALTIMORE BEACON

writing can be powerful,” Small said. “It’s an opportunity to hear from colleagues they don’t normally encounter. The discussions inspire empathy and reflection through storytelling — also known as narrative medicine — and advance the joy of the medicine mission.” After Oldfield, co-founder of AfterWards, left Hopkins, Small continued organizing the program on her own, inviting clinicians to be guest speakers. “It keeps the sessions fresh and allows for a multitude of viewpoints,” she said. Recently a doctor from the emergency room presented photographs of homeless people accompanied by their written reflections on their lives. “It was very powerful and gave us insight into their world,” Small said. “Since homeless people often show up as patients at the hospital, it was useful for the clinicians to gain this insight.” When healthcare workers step back from the constant stress of a hospital, they can heal themselves, she said. Small, who has a doctorate in comparative literature, is attuned to the stresses of physicians. Her father, brother and daughter are doctors, as is her husband, Donald Small, director of the Division of Pediatric Oncology at the Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center.

Tell them you saw it in the Beacon!

“Reflecting on art and literature in narrative medicine sessions is also a form of self-care for clinicians who might suffer from burnout as a result of the stresses and difficulties of their work,” Small said. “They find taking time to view art or read literature and reflect on it nourishes their soul, and reconnects them with the joy of practicing medicine.”

How nurses benefit Nurse Juliette Garlow has been attending AfterWards session since 2018, since she was in nursing school. She said in an email, “I’ve continued to participate in AfterWards because each session is unique and offers us a new way to reflect on our own practice. “I use writing and cartooning on my own to help process experiences I’ve had working as a nurse. AfterWards is so wonderful because I can engage in a similar process with others and hear their stories and insight, which is incredibly enriching. It makes me feel hopeful and reminds me I’m not alone.” Garlow added: “Storytelling can be a powerful tool, and it has helped me better understand what patients find helpful and what actions by the care team are memorable. I try my best to learn from each patient and family to improve my ability to care for others by listening to their stories. More importantly, it’s an enormous privilege to hear people’s testimonies of what is inevitably a life-changing experience.”

Novelist with a social justice angle Small, 66, who lives in Pikesville with her husband (they have three grown children and four great grandchildren) indicated that her “strong interests in social justice, narrative medicine and the history of psychiatry” have shaped her life, professionally and personally. And, she indicated, the three historical novels she has so far written offer her personal insights into those interests. Her most recent novel, The Hanging of Ruben Ashford, set in Baltimore, tells the story of a young psychologist who undertakes the defense of a Black man accused of murdering a White woman in the World War I era, when a flu epidemic is devastating the city and the world. In 2018 Small published Wolf Constellation. At the center of the novel is Dr. Gus Thaler, a psychiatrist, who is treating a 15year-old girl who has stopped speaking after her brother’s death. His search to cure the girl takes him back to a 19th-century rabbi-healer who once exorcised a spirit from the girl’s grandmother. Small’s first novel, Choke Creek, is based on the 19th-century massacre of Native Americans in Colorado, which occurred after Colorado Territorial Gov. John Evans issued a proclamation calling on citizens “to kill and destroy, as enemies of the country…all hostile Indians.” “Above all,” Small said, “my writing is informed by my passion for social justice.”

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SpongeBob From page 19 nee, and the rest of the ensemble. Longtime Toby’s visitors will recognize regulars Jeff Shankle, David James and Darren McDonnell. After the show, I had the chance to speak briefly with Dalsimer. He said, “It is a privilege to play a character who is so well known.” Dalsimer prepared for the role by watching the TV show and listening to interviews with the creators of the show. If you listen closely, you might pick up some subtle political comments. “Yes, there are subtle but poignant points about government,” he said. As for the show, “Kids will of course love it, but I think so will the adults, especially if you grew up on it.”

Fun family outing Speaking of kids, I had to visit a few tables to see what they thought. The Kalivas family from Annapolis loved it, and that included their three children, Lia, Athena and Christas. Their mother, Sara, said, “Really great show, lots of energy and humor. I’d see it again.” At another table from Washington was the Umpierre family: mom Rachael and

kids Alexander and Josephine. Mom bought the CD, and after listening to it, the kids insisted on seeing the show. She also met Tom Kitt, who did additional music for the original show. Since my last visit to Toby’s, there have been some changes. For one, you no longer have to show proof of vaccination. Secondly, both the salad bar and ice cream bar are back as part of the buffet dinner or brunch that comes with your ticket. You do have to wear a glove (provided) while at the buffet, and they do prefer if you wear a mask (also provided) while getting your food. In short, treat your family to a night (or matinee) out. Forget about your age; just go in and enjoy. SpongeBob runs until July 31. Next up: a return of Monty Python’s Spamalot from August 5 to 21. Toby’s is located at 5900 Symphony Woods Road in Columbia, Maryland. Advance reservations are required. Tickets are $68-$72 for adults and $52.50 for children 12 and under. Patrons 65 and over can attend Tuesday and Wednesday performances for $57.80. There are matinees on Wednesdays and Sundays. Tickets may be purchased online at tobysdinnertheatre.com, or call the box office at (410) 730-8311.

Classifieds cont. from p. 22 Wanted

Wanted

BUYING VINYL RECORDS from 1950 to 1990 JAZZ, ROCK, BLUES, R&B, DISCO, SOUL, REGGAE, & GOSPEL, ANY VINYL FORMAT 33 1/3 RPM Albums, small 45 RPM’s & some 78 RPM, Also CD’s, Prefer LARGER COLLECTIONS AT LEAST 100 items, PLEASE CALL JOHN 301-596-6201

CASH FOR ESTATES; I buy a wide range of items; jewelry, silver, art, rugs, furniture, cultural items, collections, etc. Buy out/clean up. I have trucks, a crew & insurance. Website; theatticllc.com. Gary Roman; 301-520-0755

BEACON BITS

July 30

CLASSIC CAR SHOW

Calling all classic car enthusiasts! The American Legion is hosting a car show, including a money wheel, cornhole, barbecue and drinks. Come to the show free of charge on Sat., July 30 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 1331 Seling Ave., Rosedale, MD. For more information, call (410) 866-9656 or email rosedalepost180@gmail.com.

Senior Apartments Age 55 or Better LIVE WELL FOR LESS Roland View Towers

ANSWERS TO SCRABBLE

When you present this coupon upon application.

St Mary’s Roland View Towers 3838/3939 Roland Ave Baltimore, MD 21211

www.rolandviewtowers.com

U T A H A N

S E C O N D R M P A M O T E W E L O H O R A S C T E S

S P E C O O O N M A A R A M E N M E A S I I L A

S P E L L E R

N O M A D

Y A C K O S D A T H A W

U N I T A P I S H S A R A

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

C A R V A N A

O B O E S

T O D G U A A D W A G E

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C O P E R N I C U S

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S P H E R E

Affordable Living for 62+ in the Heart of Towson Special Offer!

Spectacular View

Rent Credit 410-889-8255

F U L C R A

The first 25 accepted applicants will receive $50. Call for details.

$300

To schedule a personal tour call

ANSWERS TO CROSSWORD

FROM PAGE 22

To subscribe, see page 22.

• One- and Two-Bedroom as well as Efficiencies • Rents from $765 for efficiency, $945 for 1-bedroom, and $1,195 for 2-bedroom Utilities Included! • 24/7 on-site Maintenance and Reception Desk • Beauty/Barber Shop on premises • Only 2 blocks from Hampden’s ‘The Avenue’

Makes a great gift! | Arts & Style

BALTIMORE BEACON — AUGUST 2022

Make new friends

• Free Reserved Resident Parking • Computer Room • Pet Friendly • Laundry Facilities • Close to Shopping and Theatres • Free Hot Water

Virginia Towers A PA R T M E N T S

If you’re 62 or over, call and apply.

410-324-7656 for more information

It is our policy to admit residents without regard to race, color, religion, sex handicap or national origin and any other federal, state or local fair housing protections. Note: Housing for Older Persons is exempt from the prohibitions against age or familial status.

Arts & Style | Subscribe online! See how below

AUGUST 2022 — BALTIMORE BEACON

Crossword Puzzle Find a new crossword every day on our website at www.TheBeaconNewspapers.com/puzzles. Sugar-Free Puzzle 1

By Stephen Sherr 6

33 36

52 57

Across 1. Complain about a wet diaper 5. Scratch from the guest list 9. Serpentine foe of G.I. Joe 14. Home school of the Sun Bowl 15. Small keg 16. Better suited for the job 17. Add impurities 18. Radiate 19. Way from Point A to Point B 20. Sugar-free cake 23. Completed a triathlon 24. “Don’t put new wine in ___ bottles” 25. 2nd degrees 26. Chance for a third point in basketball 28. Opposin’ 30. Enlisted U.S. Coast Guardsman 33. Sugar-free side-dish 36. Movie-rating org. 38. Be under the weather 39. Early Ron Howard role 40. Sugar-free ice-cream flavor 45. Farm female 46. Slam-dance 47. Figures outside of Buckingham Palace 50. “Every new beginning comes from some other beginning’s ___” 51. What a black sheep says 52. Catch a few z’s 53. Sugar-free tavern food 58. They are stretched on Dali’s clocks 59. Type of salami 60. Desire ibuprofen 61. Computer code where 61 translates to “=” 62. Rug that does not reach the walls 63. Part of USF&G 64. 2022’s most valuable car maker 65. Distribute hurricane notices 66. To be, to Romans Down 1. Turning points 2. Resident of the Beehive State

BB822

Scrabble answers on p. 21.

3. Substandard 4. On ___ (without a contract) 5. Participant in a bee 6. Wanderer 7. Bag of blood 8. Eight bits 9. Competitor of AutoNation 10. Double reed instruments 11. Remove clarity, photographically 12. Part of AARP, in part 13. “__ you kidding me?” 21. Name of Charlie Chaplin’s wife and granddaughter 22. Fail to mention 27. Actor Sharif 28. Gorilla-like 29. Sport that returned to the Olympics in 2016, after a 112-year gap 30. He suggested that the Earth goes around the sun 31. Architect I. M. ___ 32. Suffix for sugars (but not in this puzzle) 34. Himalayan cattle 35. Roman robe 36. Abbr. on a French envelope 37. Any U.S. soldier on Hogan’s Heroes 41. Common soap-opera malady 42. 2021 Best Picture winner 43. Kenyan’s neighbor 44. Pair 48. Russian summer homes 49. Disco ball, basically 50. About half of it is spam 51. Less adorned 53. Reveal a rock to paper 54. Middle-earth minions 55. Prepare frozen foods for cooking 56. She played Darlene on The Conners 57. Minimum ___ 58. Fedora or fez

Answers on page 21.

Makes a great gift! | Arts & Style

BALTIMORE BEACON — AUGUST 2022

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

Caregivers THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE HOME! Jamhuri Healthcare Services recognizes the importance of keeping seniors or adults with special needs, in their homes, rather than sending them to a skilled nursing facility. Our personal in-home care program is designed to implement non-medical tasks to meet the clients’ physical needs. Our home care aides provide a multitude of services for our clients, ranging from meal preparation & house cleaning to personal assistance & running errands. We are diligent in our staff & client pairings. We won’t put just anyone in your home or the home of your loved ones. Senior transportation services available 24/7. Call us toll-free at 1-800-5472851.send text to the same number. visit us on the web: www.jamhuricares.com.

Events LET CONGREGATION BEIT TIKVAH & Rabbi Doug Heifitz welcome you to our High Holidays and Year-round services. We are a warm, diverse & egalitarian Reconstructionist Jewish Congregation at 5802 Roland Avenue, Baltimore. 21210. Contact info@beittikvah.org. www.BeitTikvah.org, 410-464-9402. KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS Council #2605, 7401 Bay Front Rd., Edgemere, Md., 3rd Sunday Monthly Dinner, Buffet Style, 1 to 4:30 PM, August 21, 2022, Menu: Fried Chicken, Italian Meat Balls, Baked Ziti, Roaster Pork, Sauerkraut, Mashed Potatoes and Gravy, Soup du Jour, Garden Salad, Dinner Rolls, Desert Cake, Soda, Coffee, and Tea, Adults $18.00; Children 8 to 12 $8.00. Call for Reservations @ 410-4775225. Put those pots and pans away and enjoy a Sunday Dinner on the Bay with Family and Friends

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 855-6268703. UP TO $15,000.00 OF GUARANTEED LIFE INSURANCE! No medical exam or health questions. Cash to help pay funeral and other final expenses. Call Physicians Life Insurance Company 866-212-1092 or visit www.Life55plus.info/beacon

For Sale VIVINT. SMART SECURITY. Professionally installed. One connected system for total peace of mind. FREE professional installation! Four FREE months of monitoring! Call now to customize your system. 1-844-758-7925. 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. PREPARE FOR POWER OUTAGES TODAY with a GENERAC home standby generator $0 Money Down + Low Monthly Payment Options. Request a FREE Quote. Call now before the next power outage: 1-866-964-8106.

Health 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. 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. ALOE CARE HEALTH, medical alert system. The most advanced medical alert product on the market. Voice-activated! No wi-fi needed! Special offer call and mention offer code CARE20 to get $20 off Mobile Companion. Call today 877-353-2589. MEDICAL CANNABIS can be very helpful for pain, nausea, poor appetite, insomnia and more. It is legal and safe. We will help you register with the Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission and we’ll do the required Doctor certification. Call 410-746-6514 STROKE AND CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE are leading causes of death, according to the American Heart Association. Screenings can provide peace of mind or early detection! Contact Life Line Screening to schedule your screening. Special offer - 5 screenings for just $149. Call 1-844-485-7035. 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.

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

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

Legal Services

GENERAL HOME IMPROVENTS & REPAIRS: All your home needs to be repaired. Free Estimates. 30 years experience & bonded. Call Mike 443-604-3931. MHIC# 43637

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.)]

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. AXS TILE, COMMERCIAL/RESIDENTIAL Install hard tile, bricks, stone works, new installation, repair. Install handicap, showers, new bathrooms, kitchen backsplash, countertops, drywall, plaster, handyman services. Please call 410-977-3610 or 410-285-5452. email: axstile@yahoo.com MHIC # 115085. 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! 1-866-365-5170. SAFE STEP. North America’s #1 Walk-In Tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-theline installation and service. Now featuring our FREE shower package and $1600 Off for a limited time! Call today! Financing available. Call Safe Step 1-866-478-2363. Y&L LANDSCAPING AND TREE SERVICE, INC. is a large landscaping, tree services, and snow removal company operating in Maryland for over 20 years. We service both commercial and residential clients throughout Maryland. We are looking for passionate, dedicated, and experienced Tree Climber to join our field operations. Minimum requirements: 1. Certified Tree Climber with reputable associations such as ISA, New England Tree Climbing Association, or TCIA. 2. 5 years experience in the Arboriculture industry. 3. Bilingual (English-Spanish). 4. Certified First Aid, CPR with Red Cross or American Heart Association. 5. EHAP Certified. 6. Valid Drivers License. Send your resume to apply@yandllandscaping.com or call 410-578-7111 for more info. THE GENERAC PWRCELL, a solar plus battery storage system. SAVE money, reduce your reliance on the grid, prepare for power outages and power your home. Full installation services available. $0 Down Financing Option. Request a FREE, no obligation, quote today. Call 1-866944-0699

Miscellaneous I WILL BUY YOUR UNWANTED REAL ESTATE for CASH! AS IS! No repairs, inspections and no Realtors Fees or Closing Fees! No need to clean the house out, take what you want and leave the rest! You can have your MONEY in 14 DAYS! CALL NEAL for your cash offer now! 410-419-1289.

Personal Services STOP WORRYING! SilverBills eliminates the stress and hassle of bill payments. All household bills guaranteed to be paid on time, as long as appropriate funds are available. Computer not necessary. Call for a FREE trial or a custom quote today. SilverBills 1-866-957-3360. T’S HAULING & MOVING I will move your possessions or haul them away. I clean out yards, basements, garages, houses, apartments, attics, etc. Friendly, reliable, honest, and hardworking guys with a lot of references. Call Tim @ 443-690-6525 or 410-889-3795 Check us out on Facebook @T’shaulingandmoving

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

Classifieds cont. on p. 21

Advertiser Index Clinical Research Studies Balance and Memory Study . . . . . .9 BALRCH Study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 CAMPS Study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Dash4d Study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Exercise Research Study . . . . . . .11 HIPS Fall Prevention Study . . . . .11 Ketone Drink Study . . . . . . . . . . .11 Shingles & Flu Vaccine Study . . .10

Financial Services John Richardson Insurance . . . . .13

Funeral Services Cremation Society of Maryland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 MacNabb Funeral Home . . . . . . .12

Health Apex Neuropathy . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Catholic Charities . . . . . . . . . . . .17 Greenspring Podiatry . . . . . . . . . . .6 Keswick Wise & Well . . . . . . . . . .4 MVS Woundcare & Hyperbarics . .8 Richard Rosenblatt DPM . . . . . . . .4

Home Health Care/ Companion Services Absolute Care Services LLC . . . . .5 Family & Nursing Care . . . . . . .1, 7 Options for Senior America . . . . .12 Tender Care Nursing . . . . . . . . . . .8

Housing Brookfield Residential . . . . . . . . .15

Catholic Charities . . . . . . . . . . . .17 Charlestown/Erickson . . . . . . . . .18 Christ Church Harbor Apts . . . . .15 Enterprise Residential . . . . . . . . .14 Oak Crest/Erickson . . . . . . . . . . .18 Park View Apartments . . . . . . . . .14 Pickersgill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 St. Mary’s Roland View Towers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 Virginia Towers . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 Warren Place . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

Retail Perfect Sleep Chair . . . . . . . . . . .18 Radio Flea Market . . . . . . . . . . . .19 SoLite Scooter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 Zinger Chair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20

Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation ProMedica . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

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

Technology Computer Doctors . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

Theater/Entertainment Toby’s Dinner Theatre . . . . . . . . .19

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

AUGUST 2022 — BALTIMORE BEACON

Subscribe online! See how on p. 22

ALL-NEW mobility technology

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Like millions of older Americans, I struggle with mobility. For years, I watched my quality of life slip away, as I was forced to stay home while friends and family took part in activities I’d once enjoyed. I thought I’d made some progress when I got a mobility scooter, but then I realized how hard it was to transport. Taking it apart and putting it back together was like doing a jigsaw puzzle. Once I had it disassembled, I had to try to put all of the pieces in the trunk of a car, go to wherever I was going, and repeat the process in reverse. Travel scooters were easier to transport, but they were uncomfortable and scary to drive, I always felt like I was ready to tip over. Then I found the So LiteTM Scooter. Now there’s nothing that can hold me back. Years of work by innovative engineers have resulted in a scooter that’s designed with seniors in mind. They created Electronic Stability Control (ESC) that makes it virtually impossible to tip over. If you try to turn too quickly, the scooter automatically slows down to prevent it from tipping over. The battery provides powerful energy at a fraction of the weight of most batteries. With its rugged yet lightweight aluminum frame, the So LiteTM Scooter is the most portable scooter ever—but it can

Why a So Lite Scooter is better: TM

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