September 2017 | Howard County Beacon

The Howard County

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More than 30,000 readers throughout Howard County

Passion for people, public policy

A new center for services Scott is currently excited about the department’s scheduled end-of-year move to the newly created (and still developing) Howard County Community Resources Campus, located on Patuxent Woods Drive, off Snowden Road and Broken Land Parkway in Columbia.

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PHOTO BY CHRISTOPHER MYERS

By Robert Friedman “My main goal is to help the citizens of Howard County — the older adult community, the very young — live the best life possible,” said Jackie Scott, the new director of the county’s Department of Community Resources and Services (DCRS).

It’s a tall order, but the position puts Scott, who has lived in Columbia for over two decades, in a strong position to work towards it. The DCRS provides a wide variety of services that run the generational, cultural and economic gamut.

Through its seven offices, 148 employees and $19.7 million budget, the department serves the needs of older citizens, children and families, consumers, veterans, military families and the disabled.

Scott, 51, replaces Steven Bullock, who left the post after less than a year for personal reasons, according to Mark Miller, the county’s public information officer.

Scott is not new to the agency. She has been its deputy director since 2013. She is an attorney and a former teaching fellow at the Georgetown Law Center, from which she is a graduate. She has also been an adjunct professor at the University of Maryland’s School of Public Health.

In a recent interview, Scott was asked why she took the road probably less traveled by lawyers — into public service rather than lucrative private practice.

She replied that public policies that have the potential to improve the lives of the most vulnerable are what really turn her legal mind on. She is most interested, she said, in how public policy and advocacy can address serious community issues such as public health dangers, domestic violence, child abuse, and the pressing needs of the elderly.

“I find my way daily by trying to change systems to facilitate opportunities for people in their lives. That’s what raises my passion at work,” said Scott. “People are my passion.”

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L E I S U R E & T R AV E L

Stand in awe of Yosemite’s natural wonders; plus, where to park near the airport for less page 30

ARTS & STYLE Jackie Scott recently became director of Howard County’s Department of Community Resources and Services, which oversees county programs for older citizens, children and families, consumers, veterans, military families and the disabled. “People are my passion,” she says.

Rep Stage begins its 25th season; plus, new memoirs that enlighten and inform page 34

The campus, 20 years in the planning, will bring together 14 nonprofit organizations — such as Grassroots Crisis Intervention, HopeWorks, and United Way of Central Maryland — as well as several Howard County government departments, including DCRS, Housing and Human Development, the Office of Human Rights, the Department of Social Services, and the Community Action Council, all of which are scheduled to move in before the end of the year.

Scott oversees a department consisting of the Office on Aging and Independence, as well as the offices of Consumer Protection, Children and Families, Local Children’s Board, Veterans and Military Families, Community Partnerships and ADA (Americans with Disabilities ACT).

Once all these are brought together on

a single campus, which is on a public bus route, residents in need of such services will be more readily able to conveniently access them.

County Executive Allan Kittleman said the departments are being moved to the campus “to make it easier for individuals and families. We don’t want people taking an entire day — or longer — trying to get around the county to find what they need.”

Scott gave an example of how the move will help “people with real needs.” A visitor to one of her agency’s offices seeking healthcare, food assistance or child care would be told “what they qualify for and how we could help them. Then we would send them over to Social Services, just a See JACKIE SCOTT, page 14

TECHNOLOGY k Protect yourself online

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FITNESS & HEALTH 7 k Energy without coffee k When to worry about forgetfulness THE 50+ CONNECTION 17 k Newsletter from Howard County Office on Aging and Independence LAW & MONEY 25 k Don’t retire those credit cards k Why widows need an attorney ADVERTISER DIRECTORY

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S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 7 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

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Free press survival I think it’s fair to say that America’s and recycle the waste. bedrock commitment to a free press has The more we get used to getting our never been under heavier asnews in the quickest, easiest, sault than it is today. cheapest way, the less that Do we have a sound, indenews will be worth reading. pendent, even fierce press Present company exceptcorps that digs out the truth at ed, that is. any cost and spares no one?

After all, you now have in Or are we surrounded by faux your hand, or on your screen, news outlets, “bot” reporters, a free publication. At the Beaand marketing pieces mascon, we do our best to provide querading as legitimate revetted, timely, trustworthy inviews? formation without watering it Do we look to the press to FROM THE down or aiming above everyinform us and enlighten us? PUBLISHER one’s head.

Or do we read only those out- By Stuart P. Rosenthal We comb through hunlets that confirm our precondreds of stories each month ceived notions? from a wide variety of reputable news These questions go to the heart of our sources and bring you what we feel is the democracy, and truly should be asked by best and most pertinent, always keeping in every American, of whatever political mind our mission: to inform, educate and stripe or belief. entertain people over the age of 50.

And asked not only of those producing And yet, we are free. Literally. You can the news sources we choose to read, but not only read everything we publish (and also of ourselves: We need to look in the have published) online at any time without mirror and decide what we truly want, and charge, but you can pick up a real newspawhat we’re willing to pay for. per, usually within a short distance of For a free press is certainly never free. where you live or work, at no cost.

It takes money to hire and train reporters, No cost to you, that is. But maintaining a to cover their expenses, to produce and staff of 15 professionals, printing more edit a paper, to print and distribute or dis- than 220,000 copies of four monthly publiseminate it to readers, and even to retrieve cations, mailing copies to our subscribers

Beacon The

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The Beacon is a monthly newspaper dedicated to inform, serve, and entertain the citizens of the Greater Baltimore area, and is privately owned. Other editions serve Howard County, Md., Greater Washington DC and Greater Palm Springs, Calif.

Subscriptions are available via third-class mail ($12), prepaid with order. Maryland residents add 6 percent for sales tax. Send subscription order to the office listed below.

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

• Publisher/Editor ....................Stuart P. Rosenthal • Associate Publisher ..............Judith K. Rosenthal • Vice President, Operations........Gordon Hasenei • Director of Sales ................................Alan Spiegel • Assistant Operations Manager ..........Roger King • Managing Editor............................Barbara Ruben • Contributing Editor ..........................Carol Sorgen • Art Director ........................................Kyle Gregory • Advertising Representatives ......Rodney Harris, ........................................................................Steve Levin • Assistant Editor ..........................Rebekah Alcalde • Interns..............................Sununu Bah, Alexis Bentz

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

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and distributing the rest to more than 2,750 free distribution sites over an area exceeding 4,000 square miles — these things cost real money.

That’s where advertisers enter the picture. Since Benjamin Franklin bought the Pennsylvania Gazette in 1729, America’s community newspapers have relied on the revenue provided by advertisers to keep the paper’s cost low, or free, to readers.

The model worked well for about 275 years. Since about 2005, however, the growing world of digital communications and Internet advertising have steadily eaten into the revenues of newspapers of all types and sizes.

Daily newspapers have been most affected: draconian staff cuts, fewer pages of news, reduced readership, and rapidly declining revenues have decimated many dailies.

Yet so-called niche publications — those targeting particular readers or markets, whether by neighborhood, culture, religion, nationality or other characteristic (such as being over 50) — have continued to survive and, in some cases, thrive.

In our case, we benefit from the fact that there are still enough publications like ours to support well-run and legitimate wire services — such as the Associated Press, Tribune News Service, and the like — enabling them to continue to hire and support top-notch journalists producing stories printed by dozens or even hundreds of papers. Through such syndication services we are also able to bring you pertinent articles from reliable sources such as Kiplinger’s, Harvard Medical School and the Mayo Clinic.

We purchase stories we feel will be of most interest and use to our readers. And we supplement these with our own writing, including local human interest stories, theatre and art reviews, and announcements about local events and programs.

Our sales team, for its part, scours the local business community for potential advertisers who provide services or products particularly needed by our readers, as well as government agencies and nonprofits

who need to provide important information to our readers.

Why am I telling you all this, you ask?

Because it’s important that you know how essential this engine of ad revenue is to the survival of the Beacon and other free papers you may read. When you visit or call on Beacon advertisers that interest you, you can have a direct effect on our ability to continue publishing.

But this will only be true if you take a moment to mention — at some point in the process — that you saw their ad in the Beacon. That’s the only way our advertisers really know that their Beacon ad is successful.

And what if you see an ad in the Beacon and then visit their website to learn more or to make a purchase? Unfortunately for us, that’s basically impossible for advertisers to track unless you make a point of mentioning the Beacon in some fashion during the transaction.

This is difficult, I grant you, when there’s no human contact. But perhaps you can say something in a comment box, or write a review of the transaction, or even send an email to customer service: anything to let the seller know that you learned of them through the Beacon.

Some readers find it easier to simply write or email us at the Beacon now and then with a quick testimonial: telling us how an article, insert or even advertisement saved them money, improved their health, taught their doctor something, or just made their day.

Any or all of these efforts can help us retain our advertisers, who truly keep the Beacon free. Or almost free, for it turns out that I am asking something in return from you and from every other reader of our paper.

Patronize those advertisers who have something to offer you. And please take a moment to mention the Beacon when you do. It can make all the difference.

We thank you.

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

Dear Editor: I just wanted to let you know that one of my favorite things about the Beacon is your column each month. Your August column (“Can you relate?”) was no exception and possibly a favorite so far.

I felt like it hit the perfect pitch in terms of current issues and events, but also the “bigger picture” that these events and the turmoil surrounding them represent.

It also made me reflect that if I feel a

writer is “brave” in addressing hot buttons, it is also definitely a reflection of the times in which we’re living — a time where I feel the pendulum has swung backwards toward a 1950s McCarthy-istic feel, when speaking up [runs] the risk of hateful words and actions coming back to a writer as a result of having an opinion and thinking out loud. Yikes.

See LETTERS TO EDITOR, page 13

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 7

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S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 7 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

Technology &

Innovations If online, beware: fraudsters proliferate

By Mary Kane During a recent stay in a San Diego rehabilitation facility to recover from surgery, Eva Velasquez’s mother used social media to keep her spirits up. “She was all over Facebook,” Velasquez said.

For some seniors, going online links them to a larger community for support. But there’s a downside as well, according to Velasquez, who is also president of the Identity Theft Resource Center — a nonprofit that educates consumers about online fraud. Fake emails and other scams abound in the virtual world.

Take the recent WannaCry malware attack. Hundreds of thousands of users globally clicked on a link or attachment and got a mes-

sage saying, “Oops, your important files are encrypted,” along with a ransom demand.

Scams are on the rise, from fake Google Doc attachments to spoof Dropbox e-mails and fraudulent bank notices. The scammers “are hitting us hard,” Velasquez said.

Even so, there are steps you can take to protect yourself. They include mastering computer security basics before spending time online. “You’ve got to do the commonsense things that are in your control,” said Michael Kaiser, executive director of the National Cyber Security Alliance, a nonprofit that promotes online safety awareness.

How to protect yourself First, lock down your log in, Kaiser

said. Create strong authentications for all your accounts, which adds an extra layer of security. That way, someone can’t just guess a password to get into your accounts.

Sign up for two-factor authentication, which sends a unique code to your smartphone or other mobile device, and consider adding a fingerprint swipe to access your smartphone. Go to www.lockdownyourlogin.org and click on a site or account you use for specifics on how to add authentication.

Start with your crown jewel accounts. “Your email is really your life,” according to Kaiser. If it gets hacked, your other accounts are vulnerable.

Move next to your financial accounts,

followed by social media accounts. Check your social media settings; you may not realize your Facebook profile defaults to “public,” for example. Use privacy settings to manage what others will see online.

Keep up with updates. Don’t skip software updates or let them pile up, said Daniel Whitehouse, a technology law attorney in Orlando, Fla. Install anti-virus software. And don’t forget your smartphone; keep its software updated and delete unused apps.

Ask a family member to review your software if you need help. And keep a backup of crucial files: Print out important documents, See FRAUDSTERS, page 6

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FREE INFORMATION

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If you have household electronic items

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Recycle outdated electronics

Want to learn how to text, Facetime or use LinkedIn? Techboomers.com is a free educational website that teaches older adults and inexperienced Internet users who have basic computer skills about websites, applications and social media.

The site provides free video and article tutorials in easy-to-understand language.

Learn how to use Netflix, Paypal, Dropbox, eBay, Uber and much more. Articles suggest the best apps for chatting, and ones to find the best hotel rooms. There is also a blog that gives you tips and tricks for your gadgets, sites and apps. https://techboomers.com

F R E E

Learn about all 400+ national parks and monuments on the National Park Service’s website. To get started, choose the state you wish to visit and the site displays all the parks available, with links for more information.

The site also lists events, travel tips, accessibility for those with disabilities, and volunteer opportunities. For those who like to save money, the site lists days the parks are free of charge. Coming up are Aug. 25, the National Park Service’s birthday, and Sept. 30, National Public Lands Day. www.nps.gov

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Visit National Parks vicariously

Everything you always wanted to know about the Web

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Links

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By Sununu Bah and Barbara Ruben

that sitting around unused and you aren’t sure how to properly get rid of them, Greener Gadgets can help. Enter your Zip code in the site’s search engine, and a list of the closest electronic waste collection sites will be displayed, including directions. www.greenergadgets.org

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Beacon Links & Apps

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Say you saw it in the Beacon | Technology & Innovations

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 7

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Technology & Innovations | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

Fraudsters From page 4 or store them on an external hard drive.

Never use the same password for all your accounts. If you can’t remember them all, try a password manager, recommended Justin Cappos, a professor at New York University’s engineering school.

Services such as Last Pass and Dashlane create and store passwords for you and or-

Links & Apps From page 5

Apps Share your love of reading Are you a bookworm? Goodreads allows you to share the names of books that you have a read and your thoughts about them.

You rate your books and explain your choices.

Other users, such as friends that you have added from your list of contacts or Facebook, can see your interests and opinions. You can also view other readers’ histories and get suggestions for your next trip to the library.

Goodreads, free in the Apple App

ganize them under one master password.

“You’re much less likely to have problems using one of these than if you write all your passwords down on sticky notes you may or may not lose,” Cappos said.

Some services are free; others charge premiums for additional features.

Be mindful at the computer. You probably didn’t win a foreign lottery (especially one you didn’t enter!), and your grandchildren don’t need you to wire them money, and Google Play stores.

Radio’s golden days Yesterday USA is an Internet radio that broadcasts your favorite songs and shows from the 1920s to 1950s. With the help of volunteers, they have preserved history in order to bring back “Amos ‘n Andy,” “Gunsmoke” and more.

During each two-week period, a total of 87 hours of live and/or recorded programming is prepared and presented. The format is public domain old-time radio shows all day, with a live broadcast each night at 10:30 p.m.

Yesterday USA can be live streamed for free on your computer at www.yesterdayusa.com and is also available in the Apple app store. For Android, try Old Time Radio & Shows app.

S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 7 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

said Rebecca Morgan, a Stetson University College of Law professor. And ignore that friend request from a “friend” already in your social network, one of the latest scams.

“Don’t take things at face value or for granted anymore,” Morgan said. Your trusting nature may be admirable, but it won’t keep you safe online.

If you get an email that appears to be from your bank or another institution asking for your account information, go di-

rectly to its website or call the institution and confirm whether someone really was trying to reach you.

You can test your ability to spot scams by taking the quiz at www.protectseniorsonline.com. [See box below for some sample questions.] © 2017 The Kiplinger Washington Editors All contents copyright 2017 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

How savvy are you when online?

Home Instead Senior Care offers a simple quiz, called “Protect Seniors Online,” which illustrates how to spot an online scam and what to do if you have suspicions.

Here are two sample questions and answers. Visit www.protectseniorsonline.com/quiz/ for more.

Question: You purchase a birthday gift for a friend from a small online boutique. The seller sends you a message that says your order didn’t go through due to technical difficulties with the site. She requests that you send your billing information to her via email, and she promises quicker, two-day shipping in return for the hassle. Should you email her your billing information?

Answer: You should NOT send your credit card information through email.

Red flags: • A reputable seller should not ask you to share billing information over email.

• A reputable seller would offer you the option to cancel your order and receive a full refund if they are not able to fulfill your order as requested.

What to do: • You could try asking the seller

when the site will be working again and if there is a safer way to re-submit your information.

• You could contact your credit card company and ask them to put a watch on your account for any fraudulent activity.

• You could contact the Better Business Bureau to report the issue.

Question: You receive a Facebook message from an acquaintance you haven’t talked to in a long time. The message simply says, “Hey, this is so funny. Check it out: http://bit.ly.aU6L12wm.”

You remember this person had a good sense of humor. Do you click the link?

Answer: You should NOT click the link without more information.

Red flags: • You can’t tell where the link goes.

• You received the message out of the blue without a personal note.

What to do: • You can contact your friend to ask if he sent you a link on Facebook recently. If not, his account was probably hacked, so he should change his Facebook account password immediately. It’s likely that other people he is friends with on Facebook received the scam message too.

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Say you saw it in the Beacon

Health Fitness &

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COMPLAIN FOR BETTER HEALTH Cancer patients who report side effects boost survival by almost half a year VISIT DEMENTIA PATIENTS A new program trains volunteers for friendly visits to those with memory loss SKIPPING A BEAT Occasional heart palpitations are OK, but consult a doctor if more symptoms arise SIBLING RIVALRY AT 60 How to stop the cycle of competition when Mom is a nonagenarian

Ways to boost your energy without coffee We all experience fatigue or low energy at some point in our lives. Sometimes it is temporary — like after an allnighter, or a bout with the flu.

Whatever the cause, fatigue is difficult to deal with.

One common but overlooked reason for fatigue is a missed diagnosis of hypothyroidism.

Today, I’ll share my secrets for natural and effective ways to improve enerDEAR gy… without Starbucks.

adrenal glands by increasing your energy and endurance. Because licorice stimulates the production of cortisol, it also boosts thyroid hormone.

One cup of licorice root tea per day might be all you need.

But proceed with caution: using it for too long or taking too much may induce headaches and hypertension.

Ashwagandha

Also known as Indian ginseng, over just a few weeks of use PHARMACIST this herb activates T4 to T3 thyBy Suzy Cohen B complex roid conversion (good!), which A deficiency of the B vitaimproves energy and fat-burning mins harms your adrenal glands and is a capabilities. But ashwagandha should be frequent cause of fatigue. B Complex is taken at night, at least at first, because it causprofoundly useful to make neurotransmit- es drowsiness in many people. ters and generate ATP energy production via the Krebs cycle. You need B12 to sup- Tyrosine port thyroid production and get rid of hoYour body uses tyrosine, an amino acid, mocysteine. to make thyroid hormones that improve brain power and energy. Tyrosine is in Licorice root many popular energy drinks and thyroid This ancient herbal adaptogen (sub- supplements. stances that improve your body’s ability to Dosage varies greatly from person to react to stress) doesn’t care how you got fa- person. Start with 75 to 100 mg. once or tigued, it only seeks to fix your exhausted twice during daytime hours, or it can cause

insomnia. You can always increase from there. You’ll know you’re getting too much if you feel shaky or get a racing heartbeat (similar to excessive caffeine).

Oat straw (Avena sativa) Known best as an effective tonic for hemorrhoids, oat straw may gently support thyroid function, which in turn provides energy and fat-burning compounds.

It has a lot of natural calcium, which helps your muscles and bones. In animal studies, oat straw triggered release of luteinizing hormone (LH), which increases testosterone and impacts ovulation.

Acetyl-L-Carnitine This amino acid makes acetylcholine, a memory compound. It invigorates you at a cellular level. Optimal effects may be seen in six to eight weeks.

Sound like a long time? It’s worth the wait to get the clarity and energy that occurs without the crash and burn of coffee and sweets.

Salads and greens Eating steamed or sautéed greens is perfect and, of course, a salad a day keeps the doctor away! The green color of ro-

maine lettuce, chard and collards comes from natural chlorophyll.

There are also supplements and powdered drink formulas that contain seaweeds or cereal grasses that also contain chlorophyll. This rapidly cleans your cells and creates energy.

Other alternatives Still want more energy? There are coffee alternatives — such as teas (black or green), coffeeberry fruit extract, yerba mate shots and guayusa (gwhy-you-sa) drinks and teas — which all are stimulating, like coffee, but are a bit milder.

These are extra nice because each comes with its own specific set of herbal health benefits as well.

So give one or more of these alternatives a try, and soon you’ll be on your way to an energized day without relying on a $6 coffee drink to get you there!

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

Suzy Cohen is a registered pharmacist and the author of The 24-Hour Pharmacist and Real Solutions from Head to Toe. To contact her, visit www.SuzyCohen.com.

When memory lapses call for doctor visit Dear Mayo Clinic: My father, who is 79 years old and in good health, has become quite forgetful.

He seems to recognize that it’s happening, but laughs it off and chalks it up to old age.

I know memory problems are common as people get older, but I’m worried. Should I encourage him to see his doctor?

Answer: Although memory lapses are a normal part of aging, they can be a sign of an underlying medical problem. In older adults, memory problems are of concern when they affect information that is particularly important or familiar, when the lapses become more frequent, or when difficulty with memory interferes with daily activities. If your father’s situation falls into any of these categories, it would be a good idea for him to see his doctor.

As we grow older, our brains undergo nu-

merous aging-related changes that can make it harder to learn new things or remember familiar words. Older adults may have difficulty coming up with names of acquaintances, for example, or they may have trouble finding reading glasses or car keys. In most cases, these memory lapses do not signal a problem.

When to worry The type of forgetfulness that is worrisome involves forgetting information that a person formerly would always have remembered. For example, a favorite social event gets missed, like a tee time for a weekly golf game. Or, a calendar item that an individual would usually make a priority, such as a doctor’s appointment, goes unnoticed.

If this happens once in a while, it probably isn’t a problem. If a person starts to have trouble making these connections regularly, then it’s time to see a doctor.

A medical evaluation also is in order if memory lapses lead to problems in a person’s day-to-day life, or if someone begins to have trouble with mental tasks.

Examples include becoming overwhelmed or confused when faced with decisions, having a hard time driving, getting irritated or upset when mental concentration is required to complete a task, getting lost on the way to a familiar location, or having trouble following step-by-step instructions.

What evaluations entail If your father goes to his doctor, an evaluation likely would include a review of his medical history and a physical exam. In addition, tests that measure cognitive function — attention, memory, language and spatial skills, among others — may be part of the assessment. In some cases, a neurological evaluation and brain scans also may be useful.

The doctor may want to talk with you or other family members about your perspective on your father’s cognitive skills, functional abilities and daily behaviors, and how they have changed over time.

The purpose of this evaluation would be to screen for signs and symptoms of dementia. The doctor also will rule out reversible causes of memory loss.

Keep in mind that dementia isn’t a specific disease; it’s a clinical syndrome. That means it’s a term used to describe a group of symptoms — such as memory loss, difficulty reasoning, inability to learn or remember new information, personality changes or inappropriate behavior — that affect a person’s intellectual and social abilities enough to make it hard to perform daily activities.

Dementia has a variety of possible causSee MEMORY LAPSES, page 8

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S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 7 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

Reporting complications boosts survival

By Marilynn Marchione If you’re being treated for cancer, speak up about any side effects. A study that had patients use home computers to report symptoms like nausea and fatigue surprisingly improved survival — by almost half a year, which is longer than many new cancer drugs do.

The online tool was intended as a quick and easy way for people to regularly report complications rather than trying to call their doctors or waiting until the next ap-

pointment. Researchers had hoped to improve quality of life, but got a bonus in longer survival.

“I was floored by the results,” said the study leader, Dr. Ethan Basch. “We are proactively catching things early” with online reporting. Patients were able to stick with treatment longer because their side effects were quickly addressed, he said.

People shouldn’t assume that symptoms are an unavoidable part of cancer care, said Dr. Richard Schilsky, chief medical officer of

the American Society of Clinical Oncology.

“You want to be able to reach your provider as early and easily as possible,” because a sign like shortness of breath may mean treatment isn’t working and needs to be changed, he said.

The study was featured at the cancer group’s annual meeting in Chicago and published in the Journal of the American Medical Association.

Quicker reporting Earlier studies suggest that doctors miss about half of patients’ symptoms.

“Much of this happens between visits,

Memory lapses From page 7 es, including progressive disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease and dementia with Lewy bodies.

Other conditions also can mimic the symptoms of dementia, such as depression, thyroid abnormalities, infections, immune disorders and nutritional deficiencies, among many others.

Prompt evaluation of a symptom such as persistent forgetfulness that could point to dementia is important for early diagnosis and identifying management strategies.

It is possible, too, that your father’s memo-

when patients are out of sight and out of mind,” said Basch, a researcher at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York.

Sometimes patients just put up with a problem until their next exam. “The spouse will say, ‘My husband was laid up in bed, exhausted or in pain,’ and I’ll say, ‘Why didn’t you call me?’” Basch said.

The study tested whether the online tool could catch problems sooner. It involved 766 people being treated for various See COMPLICATIONS, page 9

ry lapses may be just what he thinks they are: a normal part of aging. If they seem to be problematic, though, encourage him to see his doctor. A thorough assessment should be able to identify if there is a need for concern.

— Ericka Tung, M.D., M.P.H., Primary Care Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn.

Mayo Clinic Q & A is an educational resource and doesn’t replace regular medical care. E-mail a question to MayoClinic Q&A@mayo.edu. For more information, visit www.mayoclinic.org. © 2017 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. All Rights Reserved.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

FINALLY – Straight Talk About Sciatica Are you suffering from back pain or sciatica? Then it’s likely your biggest problem is pain. But there’s another major problem: bad information.

To end sciatica misery you must have the right information. Pay close attention because I’m going to destroy sciatica myths and give you the facts.

MYTH: Sciatica will just “go away” with some rest.

FACT: If you are dealing with back pain, buttock pain or leg pain, then you must seek help from a sciatica specialist immediately. Left untreated, sciatica can lead to permanent nerve damage - and lifelong pain.

MYTH: Pain is the only problem associated with sciatica.

FACT: In severe cases, sciatica can lead to the inability to control your bowels or bladder.

MYTH: You must take pain medications to deal with sciatica.

FACT: Drugs like muscle relaxants, pain killers, narcotics, antidepressants, and anti-seizure medications have serious potential side-effects and do not cure the root cause of sciatica.

MYTH: “I must have done something wrong to get sciatica.”

FACT: Physical work or simply sitting at a desk for long periods can lead to sciatica.

Accidents and trauma can also be the culprits. Pregnancy can cause sciatica.

Sciatica can affect anyone - including superfit celebrities like Tiger Woods, and Sylvester Stallone.

MYTH: Stop exercising and get several weeks of bed rest to overcome sciatica.

FACT: Staying active can help to relieve sciatic pain and prevent the pain from getting worse. Staying inactive in bed could be the worst advice - based on a recent study in the Netherlands.

MYTH: Sciatica requires surgery.

FACT: NO! There’s been a huge breakthrough in the treatment of sciatica and lower back pain. It’s a new procedure called Non-Surgical Re-Constructive Spinal Care.

The excellent results from this treatment have been published in major medical journals.

Success rates are up to 90%.

MYTH: “There’s nothing anyone can really do. I’m just stuck with this for the rest of my life.”

FACT: With the correct treatment from a healthcare professional who specialize in sciatica, you can find relief from the core cause - and the symptoms.

MYTH: Getting sciatica properly diagnosed is expensive.

FACT: Not true. Dr. Steve Silverston of World Class Chiropractic in Ellicott City, MD is currently offering an initial consultation and comprehensive examination for Just $49, this includes all tests and x-rays if necessary.

Dr. Steve Silverston – In Ellicott City, MD has helped over the past 25 years thousands of patients find relief from agonizing back pain and sciatica. He uses Non-Surgical Re-Constructive Spinal Care.

This procedure does not require a hospital stay, drugs or anything invasive. The focus is on finding - and correcting - the original cause of the back pain and sciatica.

According to Dr. Silverston, “We use a combination of gentle, non-invasive, proven techniques, for precisely diagnosing and correcting the cause of your low back pain and sciatica. This means superior long-term results for most people.”

Almost Immediate Relief from Pain!

Because the treatment is non-surgical, safe, and easy, most patients report an almost immediate relief from their back pain.

Patient Brad H. from Eldersburg, MD wrote, “For several years I saw numerous

doctors including chiropractors in an attempt to resolve unrelenting low back pain and sciatica from a serious motor vehicle injury. Nobody could help me resolve it and my work and life were suffering. Dr. Silverston was able to quickly identify my problem and within one week of beginning care, for the first time in years, I’m virtually pain free!

Now, many years later, I am still better.”

Take the Next Step - END the Suffering...

Initial Consultation and Comprehensive Examination for Just $49. This includes all tests and x-rays if necessary.

The first step is a thorough sciatic examination with Dr. Silverston. Call 410-461-3435 to schedule your appointment.

Mention this article (CODE: 49TB0917) and Dr. Steve Silverston will happily reduce his usual consultation fee to just $49!

Only 50 reader consultations are available at this exclusively discounted rate.

Call them now at 410-461-3435 (mention code: 49TB0917) and get a full and thorough examination to pinpoint the cause of your problem for just $49. The normal cost of such an exam is $345 so you will save $296!

Call them now at 410-461-3435 and cut out or tear off this valuable article and take it to your appointment. You’ll be on your way to safe, lasting relief!

You can even call on the weekend and leave a message on their answering machine to secure your spot and they promise to return all calls. During the week staff can be very busy helping patients so if they don’t pick up straight away, do leave a message.

Call 410-461-3435 NOW. If it’s the weekend or they’re away from the phone the staff at World Class Chiropractic promise they will get back to you. So call now at 410-461-3435 and quote this special discount code: 49TB0917.

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H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 7

Appraisals added to annual 50+ Expos Who will be the lucky winner of a 10-day vacation for two to China? Two lucky registrants at the 2017 Beacon 50+Expos, that’s who!

For the 18th year in a row, the Beacon Newspapers expects to attract thousands of attendees to its two expos — free, annual events featuring health screenings, informative resources, an expert speaker, flu shots and entertainment for older adults and their families.

This year’s events will take place at two locations this fall: on Sunday, Sept. 10, from noon to 4 p.m., at the Silver Spring Civic Center in downtown Silver Spring, Md., and on Sunday, Sept. 17, from noon to 4 p.m., at Springfield Town Center in Springfield, Va. The keynote speaker at both locations will be Matthew Quinn, of Quinn’s Auction Galleries. Quinn is a seven-year veteran

Complications From page 8 types of advanced cancers at Sloan Kettering. Some were given usual care, and the rest got the online symptom tool.

Patients were as old as 91, and 22 percent had less than a high school education. But using a computer proved easy.

“The older patients really grabbed onto it very quickly,” Basch said.

The online group was asked to report symptoms at least once a week — sooner if they had a problem — and given a list of common ones such as appetite loss, constipation, cough, diarrhea, shortness of breath, fatigue, hot flashes, nausea or pain.

Doctors saw these reports at office visits, and nurses got email alerts when patients reported severe or worsening problems.

“Almost 80 percent of the time, the nurses responded immediately,” calling in medicines for nausea, pain or other problems, Basch said.

appraiser on PBS’ “Antiques Roadshow.”

He will talk about “Valuables hiding in your attic or basement.”

Expo attendees are encouraged to bring with them up to two items they would like to have appraised. Professionals from Quinn’s will be present to provide verbal appraisals of paintings, prints, autographs, glassware, crystal, knick-knacks, Asian art, rare books, jewelry and other hand-carryable items. Two items may be appraised, at $5 per item (to be donated to charity).

A free 10-day trip to China for two will be given away at each Expo as Grand Door Prizes, in addition to other door prizes. The China trips — which include airfare to and within China, luxury hotel accommodations, most meals, and an English-speaking tour guide — are provided

by Nexus Holidays. (Please note: One door prize entry per person per Expo.)

The expos will also offer exercise demonstrations (jazz dance, tai chi and more) and free health screenings — including blood pressure, bone density, balance, vascular and glaucoma screenings — along with flu vaccines, free with a Medicare card.

More than 100 exhibitors — including government agencies, nonprofits and local businesses — will offer information and answer questions about retirement communities, home remodeling, financial planning, healthcare, travel, fitness, senior services

and more. Giveaways will be plentiful.

The Beacon Newspapers presents its 50+Expos each fall as a community service.

Sponsors include CVS pharmacy, Comcast, Holy Cross Health, and CareFirst BlueCrossBlueShield, among others.

Volunteers are needed for two-hour shifts at both events.

For more information — or to exhibit, sponsor or volunteer — call (301) 949-9766 or visit www.theBeaconNewspapers.com/50expos.

BEACON BITS

Sept. 5+

BRAIN EXERCISES AND GAMES

Give your brain a workout with puzzles, games and brainteasers during an hour-long session at Miller Branch Library on the first Tuesday of each month, beginning Tuesday, Sept. 5 at 10:30 a.m. Stop by the library at 9421 Frederick Rd., Ellicott City to register or call (410) 313-1950.

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Six months later, health-related quality of life had improved for more of those in the online group, and they made fewer trips to an emergency room. They also were able to stay on chemotherapy longer — eight months versus six, on average.

Median survival in the online group was 31 months versus 26 months for the others.

A larger study will now test the online reporting system nationwide.

A colon cancer patient, 53-year-old James Sylvester of New York, is using a version of the one tested in the study to report any problems to his doctors at Sloan Kettering.

He hasn’t had many side effects, but a rash led to referral to a dermatologist to see if it was related to his cancer medicine.

“The main benefit is they go holistically all over your body” with the list. “Some of the things you might not tell your doctor, or you might forget,” Sylvester said. The tool ensures the doctor has that information ahead of time.

— AP

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S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 7 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

Volunteers get trained for dementia visits

By Sununu Bah During his eight years working in three nursing homes, John Wortman had a firsthand view of the needs of residents.

He was struck by the fact that many of those with dementia were rarely, if ever, visited by family and friends. While the staff attended to their physical and medical needs, their intellectual, emotional and spiritual needs were not well addressed, fueling feelings of loneliness.

He believed the problem was the result of a disconnect between how society perceives dementia and what the disorder actually is. “The gap between what people think about dementia and how those with it really are is tremendous,” Wortman said.

He said some think those with dementia

cannot remember anything from the past, do not enjoy activities they used to engage in, and that there is nothing that can be done to support them emotionally or engage them.

But that is often not the case. Many with dementia do respond to visitors, can talk about the past, and particularly enjoy listening to music, singing songs and similar activities.

Wortman attributes the false public perception to denial and the fact that most people with dementia are institutionalized.

“There is a fear of facing their own disease or death. People feel uncomfortable.

Lack of contact lets people create a story, and society reinforces the stereotype.”

Initiating the program Wortman went to his friend Rabbi David

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MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNICARE FAMILY OF COMPANIES

Shneyer with his concerns, and with a plan to help lessen the isolation that dementia patients experience.

Wortman knew that Shneyer — the director of Am Kolel, a Jewish Renewal community devoted to meeting unmet needs in the community — had a history of implementing solutions. (In Hebrew, Am Kolel means “an inclusive people.”)

Shneyer had led Am Kolel’s rally of the Poolesville community to create a senior center in western Montgomery County. It was accomplished with a combination of local funding and a Community Partnership Grant from the office of the Montgomery County Executive.

The concerns of dementia residents resonated with Shneyer because he has family members who are dealing with dementia.

To help address the problem, he helped create the Visitors Project for People with Dementia (VPPD), sponsored by Am Kolel and funded by Montgomery County government. The program trains volunteers to visit dementia patients in nursing homes.

Michael Marcus, former director of Older Adults Services at the Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation, is a community resources consultant to VPPD. He was surprised to discover that no similar programs exist elsewhere in the United States.

“While there was much information about

someone with dementia, there was no organized, in-depth program for training in how to be with people with dementia,” Shneyer said.

“Workshops for family members were rarely more than an hour or two in duration.”

“While the Alzheimer’s Association offered excellent workshops throughout the year, none were geared to volunteers who would consider doing this kind of service,” Shneyer said.

“While the Jewish Social Service Agency had an extensive training program for hospice volunteers, it did not have a program specifically for residents with dementia living in nursing homes. None of the other social services programs in the county had a program to train nursing home visitors.”

Am Kolel’s first training program was offered on three Sundays in November and December last year for four hours each afternoon. Experts were brought in to help with the training. Among them were Anthony Hyatt, Creative Engagement Educator and board member of Aging and the Arts; social worker Franca Posner; nurse Susan Akers, instructor of Insight Meditation, and Wendy Miller, director of the Washington D.C. Center on Aging.

The 12 hours of training gave the volunteers an in-depth understanding of the causSee VOLUNTEERS, page 12

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 7

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Fitness & Health

11

12

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S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 7 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

Questioning jumpy hearts and tingly feet

By Dr. Howard LeWine Q: I have occasional skipped beats.

It feels like my heart jumps when it happens. I exercise regularly and consider myself healthy. Does this mean I have a heart problem?

A: Occasionally feeling your heart beat and having it skip is very common. It can be uncomfortable and cause worry that it may be something serious. But most of the time heart palpitations don’t signal a heart problem.

A normal heartbeat occurs when an electrical signal begins in the right upper chamber (right atrium) of the heart. As the current travels through the atria, it triggers the contraction of both upper chambers, pumping blood into the lower chambers (the ventricles). As the electrical signal spreads through the ventricles, they then contract, sending blood into the lungs and body.

Here’s how I help my patients think about the symptom. I first ask about how often the palpitations occur and whether

there are additional associated symptoms.

Occasional palpitations that last only a second or two typically are not anything to worry about. But if symptoms last longer and you are lightheaded, feel like you might pass out, or have chest pain or shortness of breath, you should seek immediate medical attention.

If I were seeing you in the office, I would ask you to tap the back of my hand with your fingers to simulate what the palpitations feel like. If you tap out a string of steady beats with a quick stutter for one or two seconds, and then back to steady, that almost always represents what doctors call premature beats.

Premature beats can arise either from the upper heart chambers (atria) or the lower chambers (ventricles). Usually the ones you can feel come from the ventricles.

Doctors call them premature ventricular contractions, or PVCs. By themselves, they are not dangerous and usually don’t require treatment. Based on your description, that is likely what you have.

PVCs occur when an extra electrical signal starts in the ventricles soon after the

previous normal contraction, triggering a second contraction. You may not feel the second contraction; instead, it may seem as though your heart has missed a beat.

The next regular contraction can pump with more force than normal, and you may feel a thump or the sensation that your heart has flip-flopped.

If on the other hand you were to tap out a very slow or very fast rhythm, or one that is very irregular, then I would be more concerned about a different cause.

Again, most often these are not dangerous problems either, but they would require more investigation. That starts with listening to your heart and doing an electrocardiogram (ECG).

Q: I have persistent numbness and tingling in my feet. I think it might be peripheral neuropathy. It’s tolerable now, but I worry about it getting worse. What can I do?

A: Peripheral neuropathy is nerve disease involving branches of nerves that are farthest away from their origins in the

Volunteers

cause he wants to help change the perceptions of dementia by taking action so that others will follow. Wortman believes many people “come from a prejudiced mindset...[where] there is a stigma and fear of the unknown.”

But “people with Alzheimer’s are like all people,” he said. “They have intellectually attuned minds; [they] just don’t remember something you said five minutes ago.”

“The little time it takes to connect with them really makes a difference,” Wortman said. He likes to encourage volunteers to “be with people with dementia.”

VPPD hopes to double the number of volunteers they train, the number of nursing homes served, and the number of residents visited.

Shneyer, who also volunteers, added: “Our goal is to become sort of a new friend or extended family [to patients]. A person that they can share their memories with — of their families, of their life.”

Those interested in volunteering for the VPPD may email visitorsproject@gmail.com or rabbidavid@am-kolel.org, or call (301) 349-2799.

The organization is also seeking additional funding and welcomes donations. Tax deductible contributions can be sent to Am Kolel VPPD at 19520 Darnestown Road, Beallsville, MD 20839.

From page 10

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es and manifestations of dementia, as well as tools for speaking with residents and engaging them creatively through music, games, storytelling and role-playing exercises.

Dozens being visited In January, 15 volunteers started regularly visiting 30 residents of four nursing homes in Montgomery County: Potomac Valley, Collingswood, Sligo Creek and Regency Care of Silver Spring.

Deborah Chandler, director of recreation of Sligo Creek Center, said the impact the volunteers has had on the residents has been profound — for both the patients and staff members.

She said it can be challenging for nursing homes to give consistent one-on-one time to patients. “What [the volunteers] do is personalized and nurturing. I think that’s the advantage of having them come in. They really get up close and personal with the residents, and get to know them, their hobbies, likes and dislikes.

“They have the time to give to that resident,” Chandler said. “So let’s say while we only have 10 minutes, they have 45 minutes to two hours.”

Wortman became a VPPD volunteer be-

See TINGLING FEET, page 13

BEACON BITS

Sept.17+

FREE CHRONIC CONDITIONS WORKSHOP

Learn techniques for dealing with heart disease, diabetes, depression and other long-term health issues in a free six-week program sponsored by Howard County General Hospital. Classes are held from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. starting Sunday, Sept. 17 through Oct. 22 at Christ Memorial Presbyterian Church, 6410 Amherst Ave., Columbia. To learn more about the workshop, visit hcgh.org or call (410) 740-7601.

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 7

Tingling feet From page 12 spinal cord.

The longer a nerve is, the more likely it is to be affected by neuropathy. Since the nerves connecting your brain to your feet are the longest, the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy almost always begin in the feet. Later on, the hands can be involved.

You have two of the most common symptoms, numbness and tingling. Most people also experience pain. As you suggest, peripheral neuropathy is the likely diagnosis. But you should see your doctor to confirm it.

The causes of peripheral neuropathy are many and various. In the United States, dia-

From the publisher From page 2 Keep at it, and thank you!

Victoria Hathaway Via email Dear Editor: As a woman living with heart disease, I am at higher risk of getting sick from other conditions. So it is important that I take steps to protect and control my health, which includes getting vaccinated against a broad range of potentially serious vaccine-preventable illnesses — such as the flu and other, lesser-known diseases such as pneumococcal.

Pneumococcal is an infection caused by a type of bacteria, known as streptococcus pneumoniae, that can present as a mild sinus infection, or something more serious, such as pneumonia, blood infection, or meningitis. Sometimes, pneumococcal can result in death.

The pneumococcal bacteria spreads from person to person through respiratory droplets, meaning a person can get infect-

BEACON BITS

Sept. 9

DENTAL SCREENINGS

The Howard County Office on Aging and Independence is sponsoring dental screenings to address general tooth and gum-related concerns on Saturday, Sept. 9 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Laurel Community Center, 9411 Whiskey Bottom Rd., Laurel. For more information, visit howardcountymd.gov/aging or call (410) 313-6028.

Sept. 7

ARTFUL JOURNALING CLUB

Create journal pages that combine creative writing and decorative art at a participant-run weekly club held Thursdays from 9:30 a.m. to noon beginning Sept. 7 at the Bain Center, 5470 Ruth Keeton Way, Columbia. For more information, call Cathy Vigus at (410) 313-7311 or email cvigus@howardcountymd.gov.

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Fitness & Health

13

betes leads a long list that also includes excessive alcohol consumption, nutritional deficiencies, exposure to toxic chemicals, inherited conditions and autoimmune disorders.

Fairly often, though, the origin can’t be identified, which can be frustrating for doctors and patients alike. Those cases are called idiopathic peripheral neuropathy — idiopathic being the medical term for a disease from an unknown cause.

With peripheral neuropathy, once the cause is removed, or at least reined in, the nerves may heal and the symptoms ease up. Peripheral neuropathy from diabetes is a prime example.

By keeping blood sugars close to the normal range when diabetes is first diag-

nosed, peripheral neuropathy can be prevented. Even if symptoms are already present, you can halt the progression with diet, exercise and medication to maintain good blood sugar control.

Other examples of treatable causes of neuropathy include stopping alcohol use if it is excessive, avoiding toxins, and correcting vitamin and other nutritional deficiencies.

In many cases, even when the cause is known, people with peripheral neuropathy need relief from the symptoms, especially if one of them is pain. Unfortunately, conventional painkillers like acetaminophen, aspirin, ibuprofen or naproxen may not be effective.

There are several antiseizure drugs and

antidepressants that can significantly reduce symptoms. Examples include gabapentin (Neurontin), carbamazepine (Tegretol), pregabalin (Lyrica), amitriptyline (Elavil) and duloxetine (Cymbalta).

Topical therapies, such as lidocaine and capsaicin, may also provide pain relief.

Some people claim that yoga, acupuncture and mindfulness meditation have done wonders. Supporting data are scarce, but these alternative approaches might be worth a try as long as there’s little risk of harm.

Howard LeWine, M.D. is an internist at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston. © 2017 President and Fellows of Harvard College. All Rights Reserved. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

ed if someone with the disease coughs or sneezes in close proximity. Many people have the bacteria in their nose or throat and do not even know they are sick.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends the pneumococcal vaccination

[often popularly called “the pneumonia vaccine”] for all adults over the age of 65, as well as others who are at increased risk due to certain medical conditions, such as those living with diabetes, asthma, sickle cell, HIV, or chronic lung, liver, or kidney disease.

Everyone should check in with their healthcare provider to determine what kind of vaccine schedule is appropriate given their medical history.

Angie Hammond Ellicott City, Md.

14

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Jackie Scott From page 1 few buildings away, which would also provide benefits.”

Kittleman, meanwhile, said that Scott’s “leadership, management and communication skills will ensure the transition is a smooth and successful one.”

Bridging the political divide Despite Howard County’s proximity to the D.C. political arena, where Republicans and Democrats have nary a kind word for each other, Scott noted that “great relationships” exist in the Howard County government regardless of political party preferences.

Her appointment is an example. In announcing his selection of Scott, Kittleman, a Republican, noted that “Jackie’s years of policy and program experience are impressive, and I’m sure she’ll do an outstanding job leading the department.”’

To which Scott, a founding member of

S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 7 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

the Thurgood Marshall Democratic Club of Howard County, said, via press release, that it was “an honor to be selected at this transformational time.”

Local historian Shawn Gladden agreed with Scott’s assessment. He noted that “a lot of bipartisanism exists and has existed since the 1960s,” in the county. This has been especially true since the creation of Columbia in 1967, “when Howard County, even the Republicans, became more progressive,” he added.

Gladden, who is executive director of the Howard County Historical Society, pointed out that Robert Kittleman, the county executive’s father and also a Republican Party politician, was a civil rights activist in the 1960s and 1970s, and the president of the NAACP’s Howard County branch — a position that usually does not go to a white Republican politico. The current GOP county leader could also be considered a progressive, Gladden said.

The historian noted that just before this

interview he attended an event marking the restoration of Ellicott City’s iconic Main Street clock, destroyed during last year’s flood.

“It was a bipartisan get-together,” Gladden said. “In fact, one of the attendees said, ‘I wish they [politicians] could get together in Washington like we do here,’” he reported.

Scott also said that her department is making a strong effort to form partnerships with entities such as hospitals, libraries, school systems and private companies to help meet its goal of resolving “reallife problems” of residents.

She acknowledged that, compared to most other districts around the country, Howard County — with its median household income of over $110,000 — is in good shape as far as basic needs for most residents are concerned. She noted that for her and her family, which includes her husband and three children, Howard County has been “a wonderful place to live and to work in” since she moved here 23 years ago from New Jersey.

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Concern about opioid addiction Still, she noted, there are “pockets of problems” in the county similar to those around the country. Among these are increasing homelessness among young people — many of whom are victims of human trafficking — and the nationwide opioid epidemic, which significantly affects older people who inadvertently get hooked on addictive painkillers prescribed for them.

Gov. Larry Hogan (R) has declared Maryland’s opioid crisis a “state of emergency” — a legal step that will allow state agencies to better coordinate their response to the growing opioid addiction crisis. He committed an additional $50 million over the next five years to beef up enforcement, prevention and treatment services.

“The reality is that this threat is rapidly escalating,” Hogan said.

Overdoses of heroin and fentanyl, a powerful synthetic opioid, killed 1,468 Maryland residents in the first nine months of 2016, up 62 percent from the same period in 2015, according to state data. A number of those who overdosed had initially become addicted to prescription painkillers.

While specific figures were not immediately available on opioid abuse in Howard County, Scott said her department is “treating this as a crisis, even if just one case is reported.” And any effort of the department as a whole will involve the Office on Aging and Independence, which focuses on the problems facing older adults, she added.

Meanwhile, Howard County Police have made a series of arrests in recent months involving the illicit sale of opioids. Police Chief Gary L. Gardner said county police were “aggressively going after people who are selling opioids, like heroin and prescription pills, on our streets.”

Gardner noted, however, that “we can’t enforce our way out of the problem. That’s why we are collaborating with other agencies to approach this from all sides — including prevention, education, treatment and recovery.”

Combatting human trafficking Scott also expressed concern over the rise of human trafficking, which the Department of Homeland Security describes as “modern-day slavery that involves the use of force, fraud or coercion to obtain some type of labor or commercial sex act.”

The department describes trafficking as “a hidden crime, as victims rarely come forward to seek help because of language barriers, fear of the traffickers, and/or fear of law enforcement.”

Maryland has become a major human trafficking point due to Interstate 95, which reportedly is a key route for traffickers, as well as the ready access to international airports and waterway ports. In 2014, the county government found it necessary to form the Howard County Task Force on Human Trafficking.

Scott stressed that she would be keeping a close lookout for evidence of human trafficking. The DCRS, she said, has been designated as the coordinating council to help fight the threat.

See JACKIE SCOTT, page 15

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 7

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Fitness & Health

15

Does 94-year-old mom still like sis better?

Dear Solutions: needy one, unable to take care of herself? If My mother, 94 years old, is still you think of it that way, you’ll start seeing driving me crazy. She has yourself through your mothalways favored my younger er’s eyes in a different way. sister. When I was widFinally, you’ll become that owed and my sister was stronger person, and you’ll be still married, Mom never able to say no. That will still put asked her to include me in you in the driver’s seat, but then outings with her husband, you’ll be in charge of where you and she never did. go and who you go with.

Now my sister is widDear Solutions: owed, and I have a man I’m My granddaughter, whom seeing a lot. So now every we brought up for various time I tell Mom we’re going SOLUTIONS reasons, is in her third year somewhere, she insists I By Helen Oxenberg, at an out-of-town college. should take my sister along. MSW, ACSW Since she’s there, she’s been If I say my friend doesn’t dating a fellow student. want anyone along, she says he’s no We’re planning a family vacation durgood, and I should get rid of him. ing her school vacation. Now she says I don’t want to be nasty to her when she wants to spend time with her she’s so old, but she still has all her boyfriend, and asked if he could come faculties, and she is driving me crazy. along with us. She says this is important How can I stop her? to her.

— Lilly I’ve been looking forward to just my Dear Lilly: husband, my younger grandson, my Your mother is 94 years old. She doesn’t granddaughter and me spending time have a driver’s license anymore. It’s you together. So I’m unsure. Should we inwho’s driving you crazy, trying forever to vite him? And if we do, should he pay get her approval. for himself?

Change your thinking. Does it occur to Anyway, shouldn’t there be a time you that she thinks of you as the more capa- when just immediate family still counts? ble, stronger person — and your sister as a — Rose

Jackie Scott From page 14 On a more prosaic note, Scott also said that her agency is concentrating on finding further ways to aid older county residents through technology. Specifically, she noted that additional computers are being installed in the 50-Plus Centers that the Office on Aging and Independence operates

in Columbia, Ellicott City, Glenwwood, North Laurel and Elkridge.

Visitors — who often come to the centers for exercise and informational classes, lunches and general socializing — will have greater access to computer labs as well as classes on how to navigate the Internet and, among other things, utilize programs and apps that improve diets and all-around physical and mental well-being, Scott said.

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Dear Rose: Yes there should be, and there was.

That time was before any of your grandchildren left home for any reason.

Once they go and do what grown-ups do — make new relationships — the door opens, vacations are shared, holidays split, tables extended.

Your granddaughter is in a relationship that is important to her. So if you want a happy camper, invite him. He is then a guest of yours, and if you can afford it, you pay. If not, speak to your granddaughter about the two of them possibly sharing some of the cost.

Whatever you do — enjoy. The future is here.

Dear Solutions: A ver y attractive woman recently moved next door to me, and I’ve tried to be friendly with her. She’s divorced and keeps telling me how lucky I am to have such a nice husband.

She likes to see new things I’ve gotten and says it will help her to know where to shop in this new area. But whatever I get, she asks me where I found it and then gets the same thing!

She did this with a dress I love, with a unique coffee table I bought, and other things. She seems to want to take everything I have.

My husband says she’s just insecure, and I should be flattered. Should I put a stop to it?

— L. Dear L: Yes. When she asks you where you found your husband, put a stop to it! © Helen Oxenberg, 2017. Questions to be considered for this column may be sent to: The Beacon, P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915. You may also email the author at helox72@comcast.net. To inquire about reprint rights, call (609) 6553684.

16

S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 7 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

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H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 7

Say you saw it in the Beacon

50+

THE

17

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

Connection

Department of Community Resources and Services

Volume 7, No. 9 • September 2017

Age Masterfully at Howard County 50+ Centers

W

hen someone says “senior center,” images of bingo may be the first thing that come to mind, but today’s senior centers – more specifically named 50+ Centers in Howard County – offer so much more. During National Senior Center Month, the Office on Aging and Independence (OAI) is celebrating the vital community resources they provide.

This year’s theme, “Senior Centers: Masters of Aging,” emphasizes the knowledge and experience 50+ center staff bring to their communities, planning programs to empower older adults to be strong, confident and independent; enlightening them to broaden their horizons with new choices and adventures; engaging those who want to develop friendships and social connections; and enriching the lives of participants and their communities.

Since 2007, the National Institute of Senior Centers — part of the National Council on Aging (NCOA) — has celebrated National Senior Center Month in September. NCOA research shows that older adults who participate in senior center programs experience measurable improvements in their physical, social, spiritual, emotional, mental and economic well-being.

As more and more members of the baby boom generation approach retirement, senior centers across the country are developing new programs and opportunities to meet the needs and interests of this dynamic generation of older adults.

“Today’s older adults aren’t looking to slow down,” said Barbara Scher, OAI’s 50+ center division manager. “They want to make new friends, learn new skills, and remain relevant in the community.

We support their curiosity and growth through fun and engaging programs, while also providing practical tools and resources to help them stay healthy and independent.”

Howard County’s six 50+ centers offer a welcoming environment where older adults find friendship, meaning and purpose while promoting a positive image of aging. Located in Columbia (Bain and East Columbia 50+ Centers), Elkridge, Ellicott City, Glenwood and North Laurel, each center offers programs and resources to meet participants’ needs and inspire them to make the most of their time. Whether through fitness classes, social activities, benefits counseling, health screenings or a vast variety of other programs, 50+ centers truly are the experts on healthy aging in the community.

For a sampling of the activities that await you, check out the centerspread of this issue to find activities happening this month at local centers.

Come see for yourself how Howard County’s 50+ centers can help you age masterfully. To find a center near you, see the list on the Calendar of Events spread in this issue; call Maryland Access Point at 410-313-1234 (voice/relay); or check out the full listing of activities at www.howardcountymd.gov/50pluscenters.

Connections Social Day Programs Offer Friendships, Creativity and Fun

In addition to six 50+ centers, Howard County’s Office on Aging and Independence operates three Connections Social Day Programs: Ellicott City, North Laurel and Glenwood. This program offers a structured, therapeutic environment for adults who need guidance and supervision to stay active, have fun and remain connected to the community. Pictured above at Connections Social Day Program at North Laurel, participants enjoy flower box building, an activity which facilitates manual dexterity and encourages creativity. For more information about the program, call 410-313-6537.

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The 50+ Connection

S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 7 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

Donation Scams Following Natural Disasters

W

hen natural disasters strike, giving a monetary donation is usually the best way to help victims recover. Relief organizations can use cash donations to procure specific items for survivors based on need.

Unfortunately, con artists often see natural disasters as a way to steal money from BOTH unsuspecting donors and disaster aid recipients.

Don’t be pressured to make a donation immediately. Legitimate charities give potential donors as much time as they want to decide; your donation will still be needed in the days and weeks to come.

Never give donations via wire transfer, pre-paid debit cards or gift cards.

Make Sure You are Dealing With a Legitimate Charity • If the charity has an unfamiliar name or one that sounds very similar to another well-known organization, do some research before giving any money.

• Charities that solicit donations in Maryland must be registered with the Secretary of State. To find out if a charity is registered, visit: http://sos.maryland.gov/Charity/Pages/default.aspx. You can also check on the charity’s reputation on websites like Charity Navigator and GiveWell.org, which rank charities based on efficiency, transparency and accountability.

• Ask whether the person calling works for the charity itself or a professional fundraising company. Professional fundraisers often take 80 percent or more of every donation for “administrative costs.” Ask how much of your donation will go directly toward disaster relief.

CONSUMER PROTECTION QUESTIONS? DISPUTES?

• Be wary if the charity refuses to provide documentation of their 501(c)3 non-profit status or other identifying information such as a mailing address or website.

• Take care before making donations through social media.

Unless you know the person requesting assistance personally, don’t give until you verify that the cause is legitimate. Note that donations to individuals are usually not tax deductible. To claim a deduction, the charity must be registered as a non-profit with the IRS. Ask how any contact information you give will be used. Once you give a donation, some organizations will contact you again and again. They may also sell or rent your contact information to other organizations.

If you do not wish to be contacted in the future, ask to be put on the charity’s “Do Not Call” list.

Report any suspicious requests for donations to the Howard County Office of Consumer Protection at 410-313-6420 or file a complaint electronically with the Maryland Secretary of State (website above).

For more information, contact the Howard County Office of Consumer Protection at consumer@howardcountymd.gov, 410-313-6420 or www.howardcountymd.gov/consumer.

IDENTITY THEFT • LANDLORD/TENANT • FINANCIAL ABUSE • FRAUD SCAMS • SECURITY DEPOSITS • PRODUCTS • SERVICES

6751 Columbia Gateway Dr., Columbia 21046 PHONE EMAIL

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

www.howardcountymd.gov/consumer

The 50+ Connection is published monthly by the Howard County Office on Aging and Independence.

The VMF recognizes and addresses the growing needs of the 20,000+ VETERANS who call Howard County home.

We are dedicated to providing guidance, information and resources for local veterans, military families, their dependents and survivors.

This publication is available in alternate formats upon request.

To join our subscriber list, email kahenry@howardcountymd.gov 6751 Columbia Gateway Dr., Suite 200, Columbia, MD 21046 410-313-6410 (VOICE/RELAY) • www.howardcountymd.gov/aging Find us on

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

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

410-313-6400 (VOICE/RELAY) veterans@howardcountymd.gov TELE

EMAIL

6751 Columbia Gateway Drive, Suite 300, Columbia, MD 21046 www.howardcountymd.gov/veterans • www.facebook.com/HoCoMilitary

The 50+ Connection

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 7

Say you saw it in the Beacon

19

Disasters Don’t Plan Ahead... But YOU Can! September is National Preparedness Month and Howard County’s #ReadyHoCo initiative is here to help you do just that... PREPARE! The goal is to create a more prepared, resilient community throughout all of Howard County.

Take the following steps to prepare your homes, offices, places of worship, schools, and businesses.

PHOTO BY MARK MILLER

Celebrating Recovery In July 2016, six inches of rain fell in two hours over Ellicott City.

One year later, a new clock was unveiled to mark the recovery and celebrate the fact that more than 93 percent of businesses have reopened on Main Street.

Howard County has committed more than $18 million to flood mitigation projects to lessen the impact of future storms on Ellicott City, emphasizing that preparedness is a shared responsibility between government and the community.

GET INFORMED — Know what disasters could affect your area, which would call for an evacuation and when to shelter in place. To understand the common hazards in Howard County, download the Community Hazard Handbook at www.ReadyHoCo.com and follow the Howard County Office of Emergency Management on Facebook and Twitter.

STAY INFORMED — Keep a NOAA Weather Radio tuned to your local emergency station and monitor local TV and radio alerts. To sign up for mobile alerts and warnings about severe weather in your area, download the FEMA app at https://www.fema.gov/mobile-app. The app enables you to receive alerts from the National Weather Service for up to five locations anywhere in the U.S. CREATE A NETWORK — Create a support group of family and friends who can assist you during an emergency; share and practice your disaster plan(s) with them. Make sure they have an extra key to your home, know where you keep your emergency supplies, and how to use lifesaving equipment or administer medications. Also, reach out to your neighbors, especially those who live alone.

KEEP MEDICAL INFO HANDY — Identify back-up medical service providers. If you have routine medical treatments (i.e., dialysis) that are administered by a clinic or hospital, find out their emergency plan(s) and ask about back-up service providers. Keep a list of pharmacies that will deliver to your home or business; take pictures of all your prescription bottle labels and store them on your mobile device.

GATHER A SUPPLY KIT — Create and maintain an emergency kit of personal, health and home supplies. Include a two-week supply of prescription medications (most physicians will accommodate this request), enough ready-to-eat food and water to last three days, first-aid supplies, flashlights, extra batteries and a waterproof container for essential documents (or take photos of your documents with your cell phone). Since you do not know where you will be when an emergency occurs, prepare separate kits for home, work and your car.

PROTECT YOUR MONEY — Get your benefits electronically, if possible. A disaster can disrupt mail service for days or weeks. If you depend on Social Security or other regular benefits, switching to electronic payments protects you financially, and also eliminates the risk of stolen checks.

The U.S. Department of the Treasury recommends two safe ways to get federal benefits: • Direct deposit to a checking or savings account. Federal benefit recipients can sign up by phone at (800) 333-1795 or online at https://fiscal.treasury.gov/GoDirect/ • The Direct Express® prepaid debit card is designed as a safe and easy alternative to paper.

For more information, go to www.ReadyHoCo.com Email emergencymanagement@howardcountymd.gov or call 410-313-6030 to request a free readiness packet. Follow the Howard County Office of Emergency Management on Facebook to participate in the September Preparedness Bootcamp and the chance to win prizes!

Contact the Howard County State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) for assistance with your Medicare questions and concerns!

410-313-7392 www.howardcountymd.gov/SHIP

Medicare Education FREE Information Presented by SHIP

Using Medicare’s Plan Finder Thursday, September 28 • 7:00 – 8:30 PM Learn how to use the Plan Finder tool on Medicare.gov to compare and review Medicare prescription drug plans available to you.

Bain 50+ Center 5470 Ruth Keeton Way, Columbia 21044

REGISTER AT 410-313-7389

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The 50+ Connection

S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 7 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

Howard County 50+ Centers

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

Bain 50+ Center

Elkridge 50+ Center

Friday, September 8 • 11:00 a.m.

Temporary Location: 5660 Furnace Avenue, Elkridge 21075

Tailgate & Celebrate

Thursdays in September, 12:30 to 2:00 p.m.

Wear your team gear and kick off the football season with a tailgate party featuring your favorites from the grill. Lunch donation applies; get tickets at the front desk by September 5.

Tuesday, September 12 • 10:00 a.m.

Opera Goes to Hell, Part II In Part II, Dr. Stern takes viewers on a DVD operatic journey with Arrigo Boito’s “Mefistofele.” Operatic superstars, breathtaking scenery and costumes. $13/person. Register by September 6 at 410-313-7213.

Wednesday, September 13 • 9:00 a.m. to noon

Origin and History of the Bible Enjoy a fascinating journey into the oldest book in the world, presented by biblical scholar Thelma Carter. FREE. Lunch is available at noon by reservation; call: 410-313-5192.

Monday, September 11, 10:30 a.m. to noon

ZOOmobile Program The Maryland Zoo will bring the zoo to us! Don’t miss this chance to visit with animals from all over the world. FREE; donations accepted.

Flu Vaccination Clinic

Wednesday, September 20, 9:00 to 10:30 a.m.

FREE for individuals with Medicare B; low cost for those with Medicare HMO, PPO or other insurance. Pneumonia and high dose flu vaccine are also available. Appointments: 410-313-7213.

Enjoy homemade waffles with your favorite toppings plus eggs, sausage, fruit and coffee. Donations accepted. RSVP: 410-313-5192.

Tuesday, September 26 • 11:00 a.m. to noon

Friday, September 22, 10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Senior Center Month Celebration with Chuck Fischer

Crab Feast

Maryland Senior Idol recording artist Chuck Fischer will sing his way into your heart with songs from The Platters, Bobby Vinton, Paul Anka, Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and many more. FREE. RSVP: 410-313-7213.

Enjoy steamed crabs, crab soup, BBQ chicken and more while listening to your favorite Oldies music. $20.00/person. Reservations and more info: 410-313-5192.

Friday, September 15 • 1:00 to 2:30 p.m.

Wednesday, September 27, 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

BETA presents: Classical Indian Dance to Bollywood

Harrington Slots

Enjoy a discussion and demonstration of Bollywood and classical Indian dance by Jaya Mathur. Audience participation is encouraged! FREE; RSVP: 410-313-7213.

Relax on a comfortable coach bus as we travel to Delaware. $25.00/ person includes the bus ride, snacks, $15 free slot play and discount lunch voucher. Limited seating; sign up at 410-313-5192.

Waffle Bar

East Columbia 50+ Center Friday, September 1 • 10:00 a.m. to noon

How Much is that Gift Card Worth?

Let us show you how to check your gift card balances. FREE.

Wednesday, September 6 • 11:00 a.m.

Full Moon Ladies Texas Hold’em Lunch Come and howl with the moon, play a little poker, have a little lunch (suggested lunch donation). FREE. Register: 410-313-7680.

Luncheon at Timbuktu

Wednesday, September 13 • 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

CHOOSE: Crabcake Sandwich ($23) • Hot Turkey Sandwich ($17.50) or Fettuccine Alfredo ($15) • All include dessert and ice tea.

Register NO LATER than September 13 (firm).

BYOB-Bring Your Own Beads

Thursday, September 28 • 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Join our monthly group of bead-loving, jewelry-creating and repairing devotees! Instructor Paula Priviitte will offer a jewelry design class with new ideas and fresh techniques. $15/person. Register: 410-313-7680.

Contact Elaine Widom 410-313-7353 (VOICE/RELAY) • ewidom@howardcountymd.gov

Tuesday, September 19 • 1:00 p.m.

Give a Nod to Podcasts What are podcasts and why would you want to listen to them?

Hear some samples and join in the craze. FREE.

Find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/HoCoCommunity

Wednesday, October 4 • 11:30 a.m.

Jonny Powell Returns!

Our very own Jonny Powell will walk us through the music and stories from the 50’s. Lunch will be served (suggested donation). FREE. Register: 410-313-7680.

Stay connected to the Howard County Department of Community Resources and Services. Like us today!

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 7

The 50+ Connection

Say you saw it in the Beacon

21

Ellicott City 50+ Center

North Laurel 50+ Center

Friday, September 8, 11:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Wednesday, September 6 • 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Mums’ the Word

Labor Day Luau

A small standard flower show and sale in the main building, featuring a broad variety of chrysanthemums. Flower show is FREE; lunch $7 (must be paid at sign-up); served at noon. Register: 410-313-1400.

Our end-of-summer party features a chicken BBQ lunch and live music by Ellis Woodward. Cost: lunch donation for those age 60+. Limited seating; tickets: 410-313-0380.

Fridays, September 8-29 • 11:00 a.m.

Friday, September 8 • 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.

How WWI Lead to the Confrontation of Ideologies

Estate Planning Seminar

Historian Gary Kavanaugh will explore how the confrontation of the three great ideologies of the 20th Century led to World War II. FREE; held in the 50+ Fitness Center classroom. Register: 410-313-1400.

Experts will provide information about estate planning essentials including wills, trusts, and powers of attorney. FREE; register: 410-313-0380.

Tuesday, September 11 • 1:00 p.m.

The Basics: Fall Prevention Exercise Workshop

Travel Talk Learn travel tips with travel consultants Andy Lunt and Debbie Richmond, including how to travel safely while having a great time.

Register: 410-313-1400.

Monday, September 25 • 1:00 p.m.

Documentary Day: American Lighthouses Stop in the 50+ Fitness Center and watch documentaries to discover what the world has to offer, learn new things or focus on a fascinating topic! FREE.

September 25-29 • 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Open House Join us and see what the Ellicott City 50+ Campus has to offer!

Take a guided tour of the main building, the Connections Social Day Program, and the 50+ Fitness Center. FREE.

Glenwood 50+ Center Wednesdays • 11:00 a.m.

Drums Alive Our new exercise class incorporates rhythms and movements using stability balls and drumsticks (check out our free demo on September 28). $50/8 weeks. Register: 410-313-5440.

Wednesday, September 6 • 1:00 p.m.

Art History: Crimes of the Art As the world’s third largest criminal enterprise, art crime creates a booming market for stolen and fraudulent art. Learn how art institutions struggle with stolen objects. FREE; register: 410-313-5440.

Monday, September 25 • 8:15 a.m.

Tuesday, September 12 • 11:15 a.m. to noon This workshop includes strengthening exercises to increase balance, agility and coordination. FREE; register: 410-313-0380.

Mondays, September 25 through November 6 • 9:00 a.m.

Mindful Mondays: Meditation & Movement Try our 45-minute fusion class which combines guided meditation with light yoga stretches to incorporate mindfulness into your daily life. $35/six sessions. Register: 410-313-0380.

Friday, September 15 • 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Fall Book & Bake Sale Browse from a variety of gently used books at bargain prices and enjoy fall-themed sweet treats. Come early for the best selection. Information: 410-313-0380.

Howard County 50+ Centers BAIN 50+ CENTER 5470 Ruth Keeton Way, Columbia 410-313-7213 • bain50@howardcountymd.gov

EAST COLUMBIA 50+ CENTER 6600 Cradlerock Way, Columbia 410-313-7680 • eastcolumbia50@howardcountymd.gov

ELKRIDGE 50+ CENTER TEMPORARY LOCATION: 5660

Furnace Ave., Elkridge 410-313-5192 • elkridge50@howardcountymd.gov

Nature Walk Kick off Active Aging Week with a 2-hour walk through Western Regional Park, led by Kurt Schwarz of the Howard County Bird Club. Bring water, binoculars and sturdy shoes. FREE; register at 410-313-5440.

ELLICOTT CITY 50+ CENTER 9401 Frederick Road, Ellicott City 410-313-1400 • ellicottcity50@howardcountymd.gov

Thursday, September 21 • 7:00 a.m. departure

Harpers Ferry Bus Trip Travel with friends to Harpers Ferry, W.Va., for a guided tour, then visit the Jefferson County Courthouse and enjoy lunch in Charles Town. $65/person. Register: 410-313-5440.

Friday, September 22 • 1:00 p.m.

21st Century Aviation Innovations Our guest speaker for this historical presentation is from the College Park Aviation Museum. FREE; register: 410-313-5440.

October 1 through 31

Trek to Turkey Town Sign up to trek with us to Turkey Town; participate in various programs to earn travel miles. All those who complete the trek will earn a moisture management t-shirt. FREE; for details or to register: 410-313-5440.

GLENWOOD 50+ CENTER 2400 Route 97, Cooksville 410-313-5440 • glenwood50@howardcountymd.gov

LONGWOOD 50+ CENTER 6150 Foreland Garth, Columbia 410-313-7217

NORTH LAUREL 50+ CENTER 9411 Whiskey Bottom Road, Laurel 410-313-0380 • northlaurel50@howardcountymd.gov

www.howardcountymd.gov/50pluscenters

22

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The 50+ Connection

Reduce Your Risk: 6 Steps to Prevent a Fall Sunday, September 22 is Falls Prevention Day

S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 7 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

BUILD CONFIDENCE. REDUCE FALLS. y

g g

p

Exercise and Strategies for Fall Prevention

Every 11 seconds, an older adult is seen in an emergency department for a fall-related injury.

Many falls are preventable. Stay safe with these tips from the National Council on Aging.

A seven-week, evidence-based program designed to help reduce falls and increase confidence, strength and balance.

Led by health and community-service professionals.

• Find an exercise program to build balance, strength, and flexibility (i.e., the evidence-based SteppingON program).

• Talk to your health care provider to assess your risk of falling; share your history of recent falls.

• Review your medications with your doctor or pharmacist to make sure side effects aren’t increasing your risk of falling.

Take medications only as prescribed.

• Get your vision and hearing checked annually and update your eyeglasses; your eyes and ears are key to keeping you on your feet.

• Keep your home safe – remove tripping hazards, increase lighting, make stairs safe, and install grab bars in key areas.

• Talk to your family members to enlist their support in taking simple steps to stay safe.

Join Us for the Next SteppingON Program!

— $28 includes 15 hrs of workshop (7 sessions) and materials —

JEANNIE DECRAY 410-313-6535 (VOICE/RELAY) • jdecray@howardcountymd.gov

www.howardcountymd.gov/aging

START LIVING WELL TODAY! Living Well with Hypertension An interactive evidence-based workshop designed for people who have been diagnosed with high blood pressure who want to learn how to better manage their condition.

To learn more, visit ncoa.org/FallsPrevention.

Tuesday, September 5 • 5:00 to 7:30 PM

Quality of Life Services for Older Adults, their Families, Caregivers, and Adults with Disabilities Howard County

Medical Pavilion at Howard County 10710 Charter Dr., Suite 100, Columbia 21044

Tuesday, October 3 • 6:00 to 8:30 PM Medical Pavilion at Howard County 10710 Charter Dr., Suite 100, Columbia 21044

YOUR L IN K TO H E ALTH & SUP P O R T SE R VI CES

AS EASY AS

1-2-3-4!

410-313-1234 Contact us for information, assistance and referral on: • Social Day Programs • Caregiver Support • Volunteer Opportunities • Long Term Supports Planning • Wellness Programs • Guardianship/Ombudsman and more!

• Aging in Place Resources • Medicare Counseling • 50+ Centers

Living Well: Take Charge of Your Health Topics include: • Nutrition & Healthy Eating • Appropriate Exercise • Handling Pain, Fatigue, Frustration and Isolation

• Communication Skills • Stress Management • Goal Setting

SUNDAYS • 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM September 17, 24, October 1, 8, 15, 22 Christ Memorial Presbyterian Church 6410 Amherset Ave., Columbia 21046 To register or for more information:

JEN LEE jlee@howardcountymd.gov

410.313.1234 VOICE/RELAY • 844.627.5465 TOLL FREE map@howardcountymd.gov

www.howardcountymd.gov/aging

410-313-5940 (VOICE/RELAY) howardcountymd.gov/livingwell

The 50+ Connection

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 7

Say you saw it in the Beacon

23

Don’t Miss the 2017 Howard County 50+EXPO! Howard County's ever-popular annual EXPO is back for another information- and entertainment-packed day!

EXPO SEMINARS 2017

Presented by the Office on Aging and Independence, this year’s theme — Preparedness • Information • Education — is at the forefront of the day’s activities, offering attendees a broad spectrum of exhibits, health screenings, seminars and presentations to effectively plan for the future and age in place.

Food and beverages will be available for purchase in the Café 50+; music and dancing will entertain diners throughout the day. The Capitol Steps will bring their political satire to the stage for one show in the Rouse Theatre at 11:00 a.m. AARP will present the James Beard Documentary “America’s First Foodie” at 1:00 p.m. The Horizon Foundation rounds out the theatre highlights with “Speak(easy) Howard” about crucial first steps to make sure one’s care wishes are known if a critical situation arises.

Free door-to-door shuttle service is available from The Mall in Columbia; accessible parking only on-site. General admission is $1 and the Capitol Steps is a $5 suggested donation; all proceeds benefit the Vivian Reid Community Fund for Older Adults.

Virtual Dementia Tour

9:00 am to 3:00 pm • Room # 222 An interactive workshop to experience dementia first hand 11:00 to 11:50 am • Room # 220

Avoiding Cyber-Crooks & Other Scammers The latest tips and information to help you stay scam-free 11:00 to 11:50 am • Room # 238

Relationships in Grandparenting The latest approaches to modern day grandparenting to make your experience a positive one 12:00 to 12:50 pm • Room # 237

Managing Caregiver Stress Explore self-care techniques and communication skills to manage your stress before it manages you 1:00 to 1:50 pm • Room # 220

Futures Planning 101 Addresses necessary dialogue about personal health, legal and financial matters, housing and aging-in-place options, and end-of-life decisions

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

1:00 to 1:50 pm • Room # 238

AARP Driver Safety Resources Command the Road. Explore the latest AARP educational programs including Driver Safety Course, CarFit, and We Need to Talk

Friday, October 20 • 9 am to 4 pm Wilde Lake High School, 5460 Trumpeter Rd., Columbia 21044

Sign Up TODAY and Receive Your FRIEND OF THE EXPO Gift Package • $20/person ■ One ADMISSION ticket to the 50+EXPO ■ A “Friends” RECOGNITION badge

■ One RESERVED seat for “The Capitol Steps” (11 AM) ■ One EXCLUSIVE “Friends” raffle ticket for a grand prize basket

For more information, contact Jeanne Davis at 410-313-6410 or jwhitedavis@howardcountymd.gov A portion of the proceeds from Friends of the EXPO will benefit the Vivian Reid Community Fund. Thank you for your support.

Be a FRIEND of the 50+EXPO!

*Make checks payable to:

Director of Finance Howard County

I want to be a Friend of the Howard County 50+EXPO and have enclosed my cash/check* for ____ FRIENDS @ $20/ea. = $ ________ DEADLINE: payment and form must be received by Friday, October 6 for the 2017 EXPO. For EACH $20 DONATION, I/we will receive 1 admission to the EXPO; a “Friends” recognition badge; 1 RESERVED seat for “The Capitol Steps”on Friday, October 20, and be entered into an exclusive “Friends ONLY” grand prize drawing!

PLEASE INDICATE # of TICKETS: _______ NAME

_____________________________________

STREET ADDRESS CITY

Check this box if you do NOT want to receive tickets for the show.

PHONE

___________________________

_________________________________________________________________

______________________________________

STATE

________

ZIP ______________

EMAIL ADDRESS __________________________________________________________________

24

The 50+ Connection

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S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 7 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

Grandparent’s Day is Sunday, September 10 Generations United invites you to #DoSomethingGrand in honor of #GrandparentsDay A Howard County health resource event for vulnerable adults (18 and older) who would otherwise not have access to quality, affordable dental treatment.

Saturday, September 9 10 am to 3 pm North Laurel Community Center

Visit www.grandparentsday.org to get ideas and information.

“Grandparents and Older Adults: Do something GRAND! Share your wisdom, perspectives and key values with young people...”

www.howardcountymd.gov/children

9411 Whiskey Bottom Road, Laurel 20723 EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

P4C Pet Evaluations

• Dental Screenings to Address General Tooth and Gum-Related Concerns • Oral Cancer Screenings • Registering Consumers Who Need Follow-Up or Future Treatment • Navigation Assistance for Insurance Eligibility and Enrollment • Demonstrations and Classes on Nutrition, Flossing, Denture Care, etc.

• Application Assistance for Transportation and Other Services • Blood Pressure Screenings

If you are interested in volunteering, or wish to receive a FREE evaluation for your pet, contact:

Ingrid Gleysteen, PROGRAM COORDINATOR 410-313-7461 • igleysteen@howardcountymd.gov

Sept 7 • 7 TO 9

PM

Bain 50+ Center 5470 Ruth Keeton Way Columbia 21044

INFO: Miriam Bennett at 410-313-6028 (VOICE/RELAY) or mbennett@howardcountymd.gov

www.howardcountymd.gov/communityresources

Connections Social Day Program at Ellicott City Ellicott City 50+ Center 9401 Frederick Road, Ellicott City, MD 21042 Felicia Stein, Director • 410-313-1425 (VOICE/RELAY) EMAIL fstein@howardcountymd.gov

This specialized program is for adults 18 and over and specifically designed to maintain independence, enhance memory and improve the overall health of participants.

Enroll at Your Nearest Location!

A daily fee covers all program costs, trips, snacks and lunch; a sliding fee scale is available to Howard County residents.

Transportation is the responsibility of family/caregiver; staff can provide information on public and private transportation options.

This program is certified as a Senior Center Plus program by the Maryland Department of Aging.

Monday thru Thursday: 10 AM to 2 PM • Fridays: 10 AM to 1 PM

Connections Social Day Program at Glenwood Glenwood 50+ Center 2400 Route 97, Cooksville, MD 21723 Judy Miller, Director • 410-313-5442 (VOICE/RELAY) EMAIL jumiller@howardcountymd.gov Tuesdays and Thursdays: 9 AM to 1 PM

Connections Social Day Program at North Laurel North Laurel 50+ Center 9411 Whiskey Bottom Road, Laurel, MD 20723 Nancy Riley, Director • 410-313-7218 (VOICE/RELAY) EMAIL nriley@howardcountymd.gov Monday thru Friday: 9:30 AM to 1:30 PM

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 7

Say you saw it in the Beacon

Money Law &

25

HELP FOR HOSPITAL BILLS Hospitals and doctors are increasingly offering financial counselors to patients to help them with paying bills TOO MUCH OF A GOOD THING While saving for retirement is vital, going without essentials can needlessly lower your quality of life “IRS CALLING” SCAM The IRS now uses private debt collectors to recoup back taxes, but they will always send a letter first and not call

Use credit cards to maintain credit rating

By Melissa Lambarena When her car trouble began, Beverly Dobratz, 70, assumed that years of responsible credit usage would qualify her for a new car loan with a low interest rate.

Then the salesman checked her credit and learned that she hadn’t made any purchases with it in 10 years; she preferred to pay with cash or her debit card. That had hurt her credit scores, preventing her from getting a deal that worked for her.

“It was quite a shock. I had a huge down payment for him, but it didn’t make any difference,” Dobratz said. “I didn’t get the car.”

About one-third (34 percent) of American baby boomers risk damaging their credit scores in retirement by reducing or eliminating their use of credit cards, according to a survey by TransUnion, one of the three major credit bureaus that gather information used to calculate the scores.

The bureau’s consumer data show that 20 percent of people ages 51 to 70 have subprime

credit, or a score of less than 600. (TransUnion is a NerdWallet business partner.)

Using credit cards for small purchases keeps your credit active, said Heather Battison, a vice president at TransUnion. That can help ensure you’ll have available credit — or good credit scores — when it counts.

Keeping credit cards active doesn’t mean running up debt. Think of them as tools for maintaining credit, not a temporary loan.

Why you might need them You can plan for retirement, but it’s impossible to predict exactly what will happen in your 80s or 90s. The average 65-year-old today will live until his or her mid-80s, according to the Social Security Administration.

That’s why it’s important to maintain a strong credit profile even if you don’t foresee borrowing money again. You might need it in retirement for many reasons, such as an unexpected car purchase, as hap-

pened with Dobratz. Other reasons include: • Finding housing. Some independent living facilities require a pre-admission credit check, the way a landlord might run a credit check before renting an apartment.

• Co-signing a loan. You’ll need good credit to help a child or grandchild qualify for a loan or credit card by co-signing. [But before you do, see “Student loan debt hobbling more older adults,” June Beacon.]

• Refinancing your home. If you still have a mortgage, refinancing can lower your interest rate and monthly payments, which might be attractive after retirement.

• Receiving a home equity line of credit. You can use this type of credit to finance repairs and upgrades that will make your home more accessible, said certified financial planner Delia Fernandez. For example, you might widen doorways to accommodate a wheelchair or walker.

“It’s an example of things we don’t think about because we’re not 80. But how much

better to prepare the house before we turn 80,” Fernandez said.

Keep cards active Recently, Battison’s dad moved to an independent living facility. “All of the furniture that he had in his home was too big, and we all of a sudden needed to completely furnish this apartment,” she recalled.

“Because he didn’t use his credit card often, we ran into some issues there.”

Your retirement plan might appear bulletproof, but circumstances easily change — and if they do, it’s nice to know you can lean on your credit.

“You never know when you’re going to need something,” Dobratz says. “Hang on to that credit. Otherwise, they’re going to charge you high interest on your loan.”

This article was provided to the Associated Press by the personal finance website NerdWallet. Email staff writer Melissa Lambarena: mlambarena@nerdwallet.com.

Widows need an attorney to protect assets

By Renée Henning Recently widowed women and their children are vulnerable. After losing a spouse, many women are treated poorly. They need a champion with expertise in estates, contracts, competency, and other legal subjects.

As explained below, this area of law is effectively a “wronged widow” practice.

For centuries, numerous people have profited from the death of a colleague, friend or relative at the expense of the decedent’s wife. Many of the horror stories involve a partnership. One partner tried to cheat the widow by closing the company, making her half interest virtually worthless. The next day, he opened another company at the same address, with the same employees and for the same clientele — but under his sole ownership.

In a less formal commercial arrangement, a young lawyer referred a matter to another attorney to handle in court. They were buddies from law school days. Their arrangement to share the attorney’s fee was not their customary split, because the first lawyer had devoted so much work to the case.

Days later he died suddenly, leaving a wife and two little sons. Seizing the chance

to earn more at the widow’s expense, the law school chum tried to revise the deal.

Frequently the stories involve greedy relatives. In one case a dying man was the chief stockholder in a family funeral business. Millions of dollars were at stake.

For several years after his death, his brothers delayed settling with the widow to force her to accept a pittance for his share.

The woman, increasingly desperate, began showing up daily and sitting quietly in the funeral home. The police refused to remove her, so the partners asked a judge to issue a restraining order against her.

My story A recent example of the treatment of women acting alone concerns a life insurance policy with a death benefit of about $200,000. In 2004, my husband, Richard Henning, Jr., bought the key-man policy from his law firm during his transition from partner to “of counsel.” Battling cancer, he wanted this additional insurance to help protect our minor children and me.

In 2010, my dear husband died while still working for the law firm. He had been a partner and friend for years with the peo-

ple with whom I later dealt, Joe and another attorney. My spouse and Joe had been pals for 35 years. In 1976, Joe was in our wedding party. In the 1980s the two men co-founded the firm, and the two families jointly purchased a vacation apartment.

My children called him “Uncle Joe.” My husband said I was the beneficiary on the insurance policy. Thus, I was shocked after his death at his employer’s claiming the proceeds.

I requested a meeting. It never occurred, leaving all communications in writing. For several months, the two partners avoided telling me if they would keep the money. They were supposedly unable to decide anything concerning the proceeds.

I suggested they give me the money, as my husband wanted, for the good of our family. They did not reply.

After further work on my part, they announced their decision. According to the e-mail, I was not designated as the beneficiary of the policy “whether by design, mistake or error.” They ruled out sharing because of a mistake by anyone else, including my husband and the insurance company, despite serious questions about

that company’s reliability. In short, both men decided to keep every penny.

Get a lawyer I made a blunder by pursuing justice for my children, now college students, and me without hiring a lawyer. Sadly, many people make this mistake.

No wise woman lets her divorcing spouse decide how to split their assets, since the less she gets, the more he keeps.

For the same reason, and because business is business, a widow should not let her husband’s colleagues determine the equitable division of money or property.

She may think she cannot afford an attorney. However, a lawyer can represent her on a contingent fee basis. He would receive a specified percentage of what he recovers for his client. She should collect significantly more money with an attorney than without one, even after deducting the legal fee.

Unfortunately, the widow’s adversaries have many ways to cast themselves as the injured party and her as the wrongdoer in See WIDOWHOOD, page 26

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S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 7 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

Hospitals offering financial counseling

By Tom Murphy The financial counselor will see you now.

Many people hit with a terrifying medical diagnosis like cancer also have to deal with another worry: whether the care will bankrupt them.

Soaring treatment costs, and insurance that covers less, can swamp patients with piles of unexpected bills. To help ease money worries, hospitals and other care providers are increasingly using counselors to guide patients and — in some cases — arrange for financial help.

Financial counselors can tell patients about help they didn’t know existed, or coax them into accepting assistance they might be reluctant to request on their own.

But they also work for the hospital or medical group doing the billing, so patients should seek a second opinion before making a big financial decision.

Many ways they can help There’s no set formula for what these counselors do. They might start by reviewing a patient’s health insurance or checking if some other coverage can help pay bills, like a worker’s compensation or auto policy for people who have been in an accident.

They also can give cost estimates for care based on the insurance coverage, or alert patients if their insurer wants to ap-

prove a treatment before it happens.

“Many patients rely on us to explain how their health benefits work,” said Margie Barton, a financial counselor at the IU Health Melvin and Bren Simon Cancer Center in Indianapolis. “They are preoccupied with just getting well again.”

Counselors may suggest how to get financial help, or assist with the paperwork.

They can tell someone if they are eligible for a hospital charity program, or connect them to a free drug supply or discounts from the manufacturer. They may also find charities to cover expenses like groceries or arrange transportation to medical appointments.

“Many times people don’t even realize what’s available until they are sick and they need it,” said Richard Gundling, a senior vice president with the Healthcare Financial Management Association, which represents finance officials at hospitals and other medical settings.

Five years ago, only about half the plans were reviewed.

Barton says about 80 percent of the people they review will need some help with a significant expense. That percentage has climbed dramatically in the last few years.

Some chemotherapy regimens can cost $20,000 per dose, and it’s common for annual deductibles — the amount a patient pays before coverage starts — to climb as high as $6,000.

That can hit cancer patients especially hard because deductibles generally reset at the start of the year, so someone in the middle of treatment may have to meet the deductible more than once over the course of treatment.

Counselors can offer many resources for help, and they understand what patients are going through.

But patients should still seek a second opinion before making a major financial decision, like signing up for a loan or a payment plan, said Caitlin Donovan, a spokeswoman for the Patient Advocate Foundation, which helps patients deal with medical bills and problems accessing care.

Patients need to make sure the amount they owe is correct and that a lower total cannot be negotiated. Sometimes, a discount can be bargained in return for one payment in full. They also should make sure that terms are manageable, and check to see if they qualify for additional help.

Many nonprofit agencies are available to help with billing issues. Patients also can hire billing advocates, but they will take a fee or a portion of any money saved as payment, Donovan said.

— AP

Widowhood

very sight of the woman, even seeking an order barring her from the premises.

Therefore, the widow should adopt a fourth approach, i.e., pursuing justice through an attorney.

Many students entered law school wanting to help those in trouble. They can realize their goal — and make money — by aiding bereaved women and their children.

In fact, the mere presence of an attorney can make a difference. It serves as a warning to people hoping to take advantage of a grieving wife — they picked the wrong wronged widow!

Renée Henning is a retired antitrust attorney and a writer in Arlington, Va.

From page 25

More patients need advice A hospital may refer anyone seeking expensive care to a financial counselor. That frequently includes cancer patients and also neurology or rheumatology patients.

Counselors review every patient’s treatment plan at Barton’s cancer center, which sees hundreds of patients every week.

their dispute. For example, they may lie or may declare themselves insulted when no insult was intended.

A woman representing herself should expect the other side to take offense regardless of whether she presents her case in writing, orally or even silently. As to written communications, “Uncle Joe” and his partner objected to my “tone.” As to oral communications, the opposing side may accuse the widow of yelling, misunderstanding business, or much worse.

As to the silent vigil discussed above, the surviving partners objected to the

Write a letter to the editor. See page 2.

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H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 7

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A good problem to have: saving too much

By Brian Vnak The most fundamental financial advice — to consistently save — is absolutely correct. What’s less obvious, yet equally correct, is that you can also save too much.

Your financial plan should not only help you to live better in the long run. It should also help you live better today. The truth is, accumulating more in savings than you will need for retirement can be a mistake if it’s preventing you from fully enjoying life today or if it’s causing you unnecessary financial stress.

In order to strike the right balance between diligent saving and saving too much, you need a blueprint.

When saving goes too far I recently met with two of my clients, we’ll call them Larry and Laura (not their real names) — age 62 and model savers. They contributed diligently to their 401(k)s, HSAs and IRAs and built a nice nest egg.

But this diligent savings came with a cost. They constantly worried about paying their mortgage, life insurance premiums, living expenses, spoiling their grandkids and, of course, continuing to save for retirement.

With a family history of longevity and Alzheimer’s, Larry and Laura also began to worry about saving for long-term care. Despite their nest egg, a long-term care event would likely devastate their retirement.

They knew they needed coverage, but they did not feel like they could afford it.

Without a plan, Larry and Laura were lost. When they came to meet with me, we first looked at their current income and expenses. Then, we did a deep dive and looked at how their cash flow would change throughout retirement by detailing how certain types of incomes and expenses started

and/or stopped at different times.

Starting at age 67, Larry and Laura would begin receiving Social Security and pension benefits, providing them with a solid foundation. What they didn’t realize, however, is how these income sources, coupled with a reduction in non-lifestyle expenses (e.g., retirement savings and payroll taxes), would generate a recurring surplus to the tune of tens of thousands of dollars each year.

The kicker? This didn’t even include spending any of their retirement savings.

Better today and tomorrow The analysis concluded that it made sense for Larry and Laura to free up additional cash flow to enhance their current lifestyle.

They continued working, but they stopped making additional retirement account contributions, which allowed them to indulge a bit more when it came to their daily expenses. This sounds easy, but it required Larry and Laura to defy the conventional advice they had so diligently followed for so many years.

Initially, the thought of halting their retirement contributions caused some discomfort. To help alleviate that uneasiness, I worked with them to pay off their mortgage using distributions from their retirement savings. The distributions were spaced out over two years to keep the couple in the 15 percent bracket.

They canceled their life insurance policies, as the insurance was only owned to pay off the mortgage in the event of premature death. The money that was being used to pay for those life insurance premiums was redirected toward purchasing long-term care insurance.

Larry and Laura came in with three primary priorities: an immediate upgrade to their current lifestyle, financial security

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against the likely need for long-term care, and the comfort of knowing they’d be able to retire a few years early, if they so choose. By analyzing their current and future cash-flow needs, we were able to accomplish all three by correcting the problem of over-saving.

The bottom line The one-size-fits-all advice to maximize the amount you’re saving may work out in the long run, but it may add undue stress today. Remember, your situation is unique, and your financial plan should be, too.

Ask yourself and/or your adviser the following questions to help you evaluate whether you’re saving too much:

• What percentage of my current income will I need to replace once I retire, and how will that number change throughout retirement?

• How much will I need to withdraw from my savings in order to meet my cashflow needs in retirement?

Navigating your retirement journey requires that you and/or your adviser has good answers to these questions. If you lack clarity, I encourage you to seek better guidance that ensures you are on track with your financial plan and the pursuit of your long-term goals. © 2017 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 7 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

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

— J. Fitzgerald, VA

We’ve all had nights when we just can’t lie down in bed and sleep, whether it’s from heartburn, cardiac problems, hip or back aches – it could be a variety of reasons. Those are the nights we’d give anything for a comfortable chair to sleep in, one that reclines to exactly the right degree, raises feet and legs to precisely the desired level, supports the head and shoulders properly, operates easily even in the dead of night, and sends a hopeful sleeper right off to dreamland.

Our Perfect Sleep Chair® is just the chair to do it all.

It’s a chair, true – the finest of lift chairs – but this chair is so much more! It’s designed to provide total comfort and relaxation not found in other chairs. It can’t be beat for comfortable, long-term sitting, TV viewing, relaxed reclining and – yes! – peaceful sleep.

Our chair’s recline technology allows you to pause the chair in an infinite number of positions, including the Trendelenburg position and the zero gravity position where your body experiences a minimum of internal and external stresses.

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H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 7

Money Shorts Watch out for phony IRS agents This summer, consumers should be especially wary of callers claiming to represent the IRS. An IRS program to use private debt collectors to recoup back taxes on some accounts has attracted scammers looking to cash in. The IRS began turning over some 140,000 seriously delinquent accounts to collectors in April.

Phone scams are among the most common forms of tax fraud, taking the number-two spot (behind e-mail and website scams that seek to steal personal data) on the IRS’s “Dirty Dozen” list for 2017.

The IRS’s first contact with taxpayers is never a phone call, and the same goes for collectors employed by the IRS. The agency and the assigned debt collector must each send a letter informing you of an account transfer before the debt collector may contact you by phone.

Currently, the IRS has contracts with only four collection agencies: CBE Group, ConServe, Performant and Pioneer Credit Recovery. If you haven’t received a letter, a call is a red flag.

Ask which company the caller repre-

sents, and get a name and contact number so you can follow up with the IRS before divulging any information. Hang up if you’re badgered about paying on the spot.

Also note that payments are never made to the debt collector, but rather to the U.S. Treasury, by check or electronically on the IRS website.

— Rivan V. Stinson

Know this before paying bills online Using your bank’s bill-payment service is convenient: Enter a payee into the system, and the bank transfers funds from your checking account electronically or mails a check. No stamps to buy, no envelopes to address and mail.

But the process isn’t a slam dunk.

First, be certain you understand the bank’s definition of the payment date so that your payment arrives on time. “Is it the date the bank is going to begin processing your transaction? Or is it the date your payment will be delivered?” asked Justin Jackson, a vice president at financial-technology company Fiserv.

Some banks ask you to select the date that the payment must reach the biller, and the system calculates when it needs to initiate the transaction. If the bank prompts you to choose a date to start processing the payment, it may indicate when the

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Say you saw it in the Beacon | Law & Money

biller will receive it. If not, choose a date a week in advance of the due date so that the bank has ample time to send the payment.

Banks also have differing schedules for when they remove money from your account to cover the bills. Wells Fargo, for example, withdraws funds the business day after the date you choose to initiate the payment, even if it is mailing a paper check. When Bank of America sends a check, however, the money doesn’t leave your account until the recipient deposits the check.

Monitor your balance closely to be sure

29

you have enough in the account when the bank withdraws the money.

Finally, check that you are submitting the correct information. That may seem like a no-brainer, but user errors are common. Customers may, for example, enter their cell number rather than the account number when setting up payments for a smartphone bill. Pull up a recent statement to reference as you enter the details.

— Lisa Gerstner © 2017 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 7 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

Travel Leisure &

Half Dome is Yosemite’s most photographed feature and the park’s symbol.

Yosemite’s wonders of nature and light

Majestic nature Located in central California’s Sierra Nevada Mountain range, about 200 miles east of San Francisco and 110 miles north of Fresno, Yosemite’s glacier-carved formations, soaring cliffs, thundering waterfalls, vibrant meadows, alpine lakes and giant sequoias have wowed people for generations.

Glaciation, erosion and the uplifting of the earth’s crust formed the landscape. It is 1,170 square miles of spell-binding nature, at elevations ranging from 2,000 feet to over 13,000 feet, threaded with 800 miles of hiking trails. A UNESCO World

Heritage site, 94 percent of the park is designated as wilderness.

The park’s varied elevations and their microclimates yield a rich diversity of flora and fauna, including 90 mammal species, 262 birds, 22 reptiles, 13 amphibians and over 1,000 plants. Lucky visitors might see mule deer, coyotes, mountain lions, black bears and golden eagles soaring above.

Giant sequoias, Douglas firs, incense cedars and lodgepole, sugar and Jeffrey pines stretch to the sky. Meadows are sprinkled with 1,450 species of wildflowers like monkeyflowers, shooting stars, Alpine columbines, spider lupines and pussy paws.

In 1864, President Abraham Lincoln signed the bill to protect the Yosemite Valley and Mariposa Grove from development, and deeded the property to California — an act representing the first time the federal government set aside land for the public. It officially became a national park in 1890.

Glaciers sculpted imposing domeshaped rocks, towering cliffs and bold landscapes. The massive, sheer, rounded cliff called Half Dome, with its stark granite face, is the park’s symbol and most photographed feature, captured by Adams’s famous black and white photograph, “Moon and Half Dome.”

High-energy adventurers hike 16.4 miles to the dome’s summit, 8,842 feet from the valley floor. The more agile scale up the rocks. Half Dome’s ever-shifting reflection in the still waters of Mirror Lake is magical.

PHOTO BY YONGYUT KUMSRI

By Glenda C. Booth The sunlight creeps across Half Dome’s mammoth granite face, easing from steel gray to grayish-white to dull yellow-orange to a luminescent blaze orange. Sunrises, sunsets, moonrises and moonlight provide an ever-changing light show on Half Dome and across the landscape.

The noon sun spotlights the purplish “throat” of the Sierra penstemon’s tube-like flower. Rainbows sparkle across misty waterfalls. Lakes glisten. Stars twinkle in the black firmament. This is Yosemite National Park.

Yosemite has long been a photographer’s mecca because of its stunning beauty, clear days, changing colors, and interplay of light on the granite boulders and crystal blue lakes. It inspired famed photographer Ansel Adams, and drew five million visitors in 2016. There is no “off-season.”

Visitors can view (and sometimes even walk through) ancient giant sequoia trees in three groves at Yosemite National Park. Some trees are more than 2,500 years old and more than 40 feet in diameter.

El Capitan is a single piece of granite soaring 3,245 feet, equal to 350 stories above the valley. It’s a favorite site for elite rock climbers from all over the world.

With binoculars, you may see human “specks” clinging and climbing.

“Here, the best of the Sierra Nevada range is a blanket of solid granite. Here is where you meet Mother Earth stark and undressed,” said David von Seggern, a hiker and Nevada Sierra Club activist.

PHOTO BY SHAFERAPHOT

Yosemite has one of the largest concentrations of cascading waterfalls on Earth.

Some display rainbows when light bounces off them, including a rare lunar rainbow at times.

Waterfalls tumble to the valley Native Americans called Yosemite Valley “Ahwahnee,” which is believed to mean “mouth” because they thought it resembled a bear’s gaping mouth. It is a tapestry of meadows brightened by wildflowers and flowering shrubs, oak woodlands, mixed conifer forests and wildlife. A focal point for services and a jumping-off place for other sites, the valley constitutes less than five percent of the total park.

Yosemite has many seasonal waterfalls that tumble into the valley, one of the best concentrations of cascades in the world. In years of heavy snowpack or rain, dozens of waterfalls can plunge over the cliffs, many of which are unnamed.

Yosemite Falls thunders down 2,425 feet in three sections, the highest free-falling waterfall in North America. Bridal Veil Fall

drops 620 feet. Native Americans called this area Pohono, “Spirit of the Puffing Wind,” probably because the wind swirls about and jerks the water side to side. The Nevada Fall plummets 594 feet. Vernal Fall, a watery, white curtain, descends 317 feet; viewing often requires a poncho in the spring.

Rainbows can emerge in the torrents in late afternoon. A lunar rainbow appears at times, one of three locations in the world where this occurs. John Muir described these “moonbows” as “one of the most impressive and most cheering of all the blessed mountain evangels.”

Yosemite has three groves of Sequoiadendron giganteum, giant sequoias — Mariposa, Tuolumne and Merced. These cinnamoncolored behemoths, some with a 40-foot diameter, grow from an oatmeal-flake-sized seed. The Mariposa Grove has around 500 giant sequoias spread over 250 acres, including the Grizzly Giant — 2,700 years old and perhaps Yosemite’s oldest living sequoia.

Yosemite’s High Country has fewer visitors than other parts and is less disturbed.

It is home to alpine lakes, meadows and jagged peaks. In some more barren areas, small plants peek out of rock crevices and seem to struggle to survive under gnarled, wind-beaten trees.

See YOSEMITE, page 33

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 7

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Leisure & Travel

31

Parking your car near an airport for less If you have someone to drive you to the ty for a handful of local lots near an airport, airport and pick you up, or if you live close with links to their reservation websites.

The Parking Spot (theparkenough to take a taxi or shuttle ingspot.com), as far as I can to the airport for your summer tell, operates its own dedicatflight, you can forget about ed lots at 18 U.S. airports. long-term airport parking.

Rates are typically at least a But if you don’t have a drivdollar per day less than the airer and aren’t close to your deport’s official long-term parkparture airport, driving and ing, but not always. Most indeparking your car at the airport pendent lots offer, at a miniwhile you’re away can be mum, a guaranteed space and cheaper than taking taxis. a free shuttle to/from the terAlthough long-term airport minal. parking could expose you to TRAVEL TIPS Many offer a choice of covgrief in the form of high By Ed Perkins ered, uncovered, and even inprices, overflowing airport lots or both, you have alternatives. Big and door parking, and some offer valet service medium-size airports attract adjacent inde- with your car rather than shuttle. A few offer pendent parking operations, most of which minor maintenance services while your car is offer reserved parking at rates lower than parked. airport long-term rates.

Hotels with free parking Finding cheaper lots If you don’t already have a favorite, several online agencies arrange airport parking in many big U.S. and Canadian airports: Airport Parking Reservations (airportparkingreservations.com), Park ‘N Fly (pnf.com/), Park Ride Fly USA (parkrideflyusa.com), and LongtermParking (longtermparking.com).

These agencies post rates and availabili-

Another option is to book the night before departure or after arrival at an airportarea hotel. Hundreds of airport-area hotels offer packages that combine one night’s accommodation with “free” parking in the hotel’s parking area — typically one or two weeks’ worth, but sometimes more — plus shuttle service to/from the airport. Most also provide for parking beyond the nominal limit for an extra daily charge.

I know of three big online agencies that specialize in parking packages at airport hotels: • Park Sleep Fly (parksleepfly.com), the pioneer in the field, arranges hotel-park packages near almost 200 airports in the U.S. and Canada. Park Sleep Fly also arranges airport parking without the hotel.

• Stay 123 (stay123.com) and Hotel N Parking (hotelnparking.com), apparently the same outfit, provide similar coverage.

• BuyReservations (buyreservations.com) posts accommodation/parking packages at about half as many airports.

You find a lot of overlap among the three agencies, but not 100 percent. Check all three just in case any one agency doesn’t cover what you need.

Many airport-area hotels and motels independently offer similar packages. If you don’t find what you need on one of the nationwide sites, you can Google something like “airport hotel parking packages [city]” to find other choices. Also, your travel agent may have access to deals.

Although the agencies tout “free” parking, the parking-package room rate for one night is almost always higher than the hotel’s lowest available rate. But the difference in rates is much less than the cost of parking for a week in an airport-area parking lot. I’ve usually found the premium for a week or more of parking works out to only a few dollars a day, and much less than you’d pay at most See PARKING, page 33

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S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 7 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

Queens is king of Big Apple’s diversity

A cultural melting pot For many visitors, the greatest appeal is that Queens is the most ethnically diverse county in the United States. More than half of its residents were born outside the U.S., immigrating from over 120 counties, and

speaking some 135 languages. The Tower of Babel had nothing on this enclave.

A good introduction to this cultural conglomeration comes during walks through some of the 50-plus neighborhoods that are adjacent in geography yet worlds apart in ambience and atmosphere.

A stretch of Roosevelt Avenue in Jackson Heights would be at home in Central and South America. The feeling and food are very different in Flushing, the site of a Chinese community that is bigger than Chinatown in Manhattan.

Astoria provides an introduction to authentic Greek culture, including tavernas that serve up traditional meze appetizers and magnificent Greek Orthodox churches. Astoria also is dotted by mini-neighborhoods occupied by immigrants from India, Korea, Romania, the Dominican Republic and other far-flung countries.

Given the name, it’s no surprise that the Jamaica area has strong roots in the Caribbean. Then there are sections known as Little Egypt, Little India, Little Guyana, Little Colombia and Little Manila.

In places, the cultural blend becomes apparent in the span of a single block. I spotted Cuban, Chinese and Italian restaurants that are next door neighbors, and one block where diners have a choice of Cypriot, Philippine, Czech and Peruvian cuisine.

PHOTO BY VICTOR BLOCK

By Victor Block Not hungry enough for a sit-down breakfast, I munched on Tibetan dumplings purchased from a snack truck decorated with a sign that touted “Himalayan Fresh Food.”

Lunch was a hurried affair at a five-table eatery where the menu special is yak meat washed down by salty yak milk tea.

For dinner, I chose a small restaurant that gives new meaning to the word “eclectic.”

The Ecuadorean-born chef transformed basic South American fare with hints of Spanish, Chinese and other cuisines from around the world.

This dining experience provided a perfect introduction to a virtual global tour without boarding an airplane or ship. I was visiting New York City’s borough of Queens.

Granted, Queens didn’t use to be high on many people’s “bucket list,” but now it’s earning praise from respected sources.

The Microsoft Money website named it one of the “hottest” cities in America.

Lonely Planet travel guides crowned Queens the “Number one U.S. travel destination for 2015.” It praised the often-overlooked borough for its “global food culture,” exciting museum and art scene, and seaside attractions.

Baseball and beaches The selection of things to see and do in Queens is as varied as the restaurant scene.

Bustling Queens offers a mélange of many cultures. The Chinese community in Flushing is larger than that in Manhattan’s Chinatown.

PHOTO BY VICTOR BLOCK

For example, fans of baseball and tennis have a rare opportunity for a behind-thescenes look at landmarks of those games.

Guided tours of the New York Mets’ Citi Field include the dugout, playing field and Mets Hall of Fame and Museum, which offers exhibits, videos and interactive kiosks.

The Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, home of the US Open, provides an even more interactive experience. In addition to tours of its facilities, people may reserve time to play on the 12 indoor and 23 outdoor courts.

After several spirited games of tennis, what could be more inviting than a dip in the Atlantic Ocean? One of Queens’ biggest surprises is that several miles of inviting beaches line its coast.

Rockaway Beach has a seven-mile boardwalk that includes eateries, entertainment venues and more. Jacob Riis Beach offers shorter stretches of landscaped walkways.

While swimming is officially prohibited at the isolated Breezy Point Tip of Rockaway Beach, broad stretches of sand, dunes and marshes provide an inviting setting.

Many museums Those who prefer indoor pursuits have a welcome choice of more than 30 museums. The Queens Museum is the logical place to begin. The building was erected to house the New York City Pavilion at the 1939 World’s Fair, and its permanent col-

lection includes memorabilia from both that and the 1964 exposition.

The most dramatic exhibit is the Panorama of New York City — a 9,335-square-foot model that encompasses some 900,000 tiny structures built in intricate detail to exact scale. In this mini-metropolis, the Statue of Liberty is less than two inches high.

Visitors to the Museum of the Moving Image are immersed in the history, technology and art of movies, television and video games. Set designs, costumes and other exhibits are enhanced by unique experiences like recording voice-over dialogue for a film, and choosing sound effects for sequences from well-known movies and TV shows.

If you’re still not convinced that Queens warrants a visit, or at least a day trip from Manhattan, add in a Resorts World Casino, a pre-Revolutionary house and working farm, one of the major bird-watching sanctuaries in the Northeast, and a 24-squareblock arts district.

A sightseeing itinerary also can include homes in which a virtual alphabet of celebrities once lived. Among them were Louis Armstrong, Ella Fitzgerald, the Marx Brothers, Mae West, Jackie Robinson and Malcolm X. I left Queens convinced that if it was good enough for them, it’s great for me.

For more information about all that Queens has to offer visitors, visit http://itsinqueens.com or call (718) 263-0546.

BEACON BITS Surprisingly, Queens is home to several miles of beaches along its coast, including Rockaway Beach and Jacob Riis Beach.

BEACON BITS

Sept. 23+

FARM HERITAGE DAYS

A program of vintage farm equipment exhibits, blacksmith demonstrations, wagon rides and live bluegrass music will greet visitors to the annual Farm Heritage Days on Saturday, Sept. 23 and Sunday, Sept. 24.

The celebration will be open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days at the Howard County Living Farm Heritage Museum, 12985 Frederick Rd., West Friendship. Admission is $5 for ages 8 and above. A separate “Wine on the Farm” event will be held Saturday only, with tickets $25 each. For more information and to buy tickets in advance, visit www.farmheritage.org or call (410) 489-2345.

Sept. 13+

LEGISLATIVE LEADERSHIP TRAINING The University of Maryland’s Legacy Leadership Institute on

Public Policy, in partnership with the state of Maryland, is looking for volunteers age 50+ to serve as volunteer legislative leaders during the 2017-2018 session of the Maryland General Assembly. Classroom training begins Wednesday, Sept.

13 and spans 10 weeks, two days per week, at the College Park campus — with site visits to the state complex in Annapolis. The volunteer assignment will be for a minimum of two days per week, starting in Jan. 2018 in the Annapolis offices of various senators and delegates. For more information, or for an application, contact Wesley Queen at wqueen@umd.edu or call (301) 405-2529.

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Leisure & Travel

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 7

Yosemite From page 30 Tuolumne Meadows, the park’s largest subalpine meadow, at 8,600 feet, is popular for hiking — it’s flat. The Tioga Pass, at 9,945 feet, is the highest pass in the Sierra Nevada range accessible by vehicle.

Yosemite indoors Over 60 park properties are on the National Register of Historic Places, and some say the National Park Service’s rustic architectural style was born here.

Completed in 1927, designers wanted the Ahwahnee Hotel (now the Majestic Yosemite Hotel) to blend in with nature.

The Great Lounge has original oak tables and wrought-iron chandeliers.

The hotel’s famous dining room recalls an earlier era that hosted luminaries like Eleanor Roosevelt, John F. Kennedy, Steve Jobs and the United Kingdom’s Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip, who booked every room in the hotel. The Big Trees Lodge, of Victorian-era resort design, is

Parking From page 31 big airports for just the parking.

The airport parking specialist agencies listed also say they offer similar deals at major cruise ports. But when you take a closer look, you find that most of the

also a historic landmark and has served guests since the 1870s.

The Yosemite Museum showcases the history of the Miwok and Paiute people through clothing, projectile points, baskets and beadwork. The Ansel Adams Gallery features the famous photographer’s and other artists’ works, plus handcrafts and gifts. The Pioneer Yosemite History Center presents the park’s history.

Sixty to 70 tour buses and up to 8,000 cars can roll into the park on a summer day. Visitors left 15,000 tons of garbage in 2015, perhaps a signal that people are loving the park to death. As humans alter the landscape, park officials are working hard to preserve and restore native habitats and bring back critters like the Sierra Nevada big horn sheep, Yosemite toad and the western pond turtle.

But the crowds also signify the allure of Yosemite and its natural wonders. Light — bright or soft, dim or lustrous — creeping across granite cliffs, illuminating a wildflower’s delicate pistil, glistening through waterfalls or electrifying the night, Yosemite “cruise port” listings are actually for airport-area hotels with shuttles to/from the actual port area. And, in many cases, the “free” shuttle is one-way only: You pay for the return trip. Only a few hotels are actually located near the port.

A former intriguing option, Flightcar, folded last year. Its deal was to rent out your

33

Yosemite is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, but some roads are closed at times, largely because of snow. Check ahead.

Summer provides a palette of wildflowers, active wildlife and open roads and facilities. But summer is also fire season, and as we went to press in late July, a wildfire that started about 10 miles outside the park had destroyed about 100 structures and threatened 1,500 more. The fire has not affected the park, and it is still currently open.

In the fall, big-leaf maples, black oaks, Pacific dogwoods and other deciduous trees become showy amid the evergreens’ backdrop. Crowds are smaller.

Winters can be cold, but a pristine blanket of white, crystallized foliage, frozen waterfalls and mesmerizing silence await.

Some parts of the park are not accessible.

Spring’s highlights are rushing creeks and tumbling waterfalls, blooming redbuds and dogwoods. Frogs and toads

croak. Some snow patches linger.

Yosemite has four entrances and four visitor centers. Buses (VIA bus lines; 800369-PARK) are available year-round from Merced and Fresno. Amtrak trains connect in Merced with buses to the park.

The nearest major airport is in Fresno, 90 miles from Big Trees Lodge. American Airlines has the cheapest roundtrip flights from BWI to Fresno for $366 in mid-September.

Most visitors tour the park by driving or taking free shuttles or fee-based tours.

Staffers offer many programs, guided walks and hikes, horseback riding and winter sports.

Spring and fall are the least crowded.

Veteran visitors recommend staying several days and arriving in the early morning or late afternoon.

For accommodations, there are lodges, cabins, canvas tents on platforms and campgrounds. Make reservations well in advance at www.travelyosemite.com or by calling (888) 413-8869. For more information from the National Park Service, call (209) 372-0200 or see www.nps.gov/yose.

car at attractive rates to other travelers while you parked it “free” at the airport. I’ve heard about a new operation that seems to be retrying the same model; more on that later.

Send e-mail to Ed Perkins at eperkins@ mind.net. Also, check out Ed’s new rail travel website at www.rail-guru.com. © 2017 Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

is a constant interplay of land and light.

If you go

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Style Arts &

John le Carre’s book The Pigeon Tunnel is one of three recent memoirs reviewed on page 36.

Rep Stage begins its 25th theater season uses them for other work. The nonprofit company has the use of the Horowitz Center theaters on the HCC campus in Columbia.

A 25th season anniversary event for Rep Stage donors was held last spring, and discussions are underway for a larger event to celebrate the special year.

Opening act The season opens Sept. 6 with Wasserman’s 1988 Tony Award- and Pulitzer Prize-winning comedy about the comingof-age of art historian Heidi Holland. The play soon became a feminist classic.

Rep Stage Artistic Director Joseph Ritsch said that, after reacquainting himself with the play, he was “surprised how current the themes still are.” It raises questions about the position of women in the world that still have not been answered, he said.

The Heidi Chronicles, directed by Jenna Duncan, will run through Sept. 24 in the Studio Theatre at HCC. Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill, which imagines one of the final performances of jazz icon Billie Holiday four

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By Robert Friedman Rep Stage, the professional regional theater at Howard County Community College, will mark its 25th anniversary season with three award-winning contemporary American plays —The Heidi Chronicles by Wendy Wasserstein, Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill by Lanie Robertson, and True West by Sam Shepard — along with a world premiere about two eccentric sisters from Baltimore.

The premiere, All She Must Possess, is by Baltimore playwright Susan McCully, who teaches at the University of Maryland Baltimore Campus. The play traces the strange-but-true lives of the Cone Sisters, two art collectors who happened to help discover such onetime struggling painters as Henri Matisse and Pablo Picasso.

Rep Stage is the only Equity-associated professional theater in the country that is part of a community college. Equity refers to the Actors’ Equity Association, an American labor union that represents more than 50,000 actors and stage managers nationwide.

While not connected to the college’s theater department, Rep Stage occasionally casts students in its productions and

Rep Stage presented the play American Hero during its 2016-17 season. The new season starts with Wendy Wasserstein’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play The Heidi Chronicles on Sept. 6.

months before her death in 1959, will run from Nov. 1 to 19, also at the Studio Theater at HCC. The 90-minute one-act play was written in 1986, then recently revived with Audra McDonald, who won her sixth Tony award

for her performance.

The play features performances of more than a dozen Holiday classics, such as “God Bless the Child,” “Strange Fruit” and See REP STAGE, page 35

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 7

Rep Stage From page 34 “My Man.” Between the songs, the singer reminisces about her hard-knock life.

While the play itself did not receive the accolades that went to MacDonald for her performance, Ritsch said Holiday’s monologues in the play are “beautiful and heartbreaking. She talks about race and politics in a sensitive and important way.”

The play will be directed by Danielle Drakes, with musical direction by Cedric D. Lyles.

World premiere in February All She May Possess, which will have its world premiere Feb. 7, 2018 and run through Feb. 15, looks at the lives of Claribel and Etta Cone (née Kahn) — upperclass daughters of German-Jewish refugees, whose turn-of-the-19th century adventures in collecting “modern” art bemused and amused their supposed peers.

Ritsch, who will direct the work, noted that several great Matisse paintings at the Baltimore Museum of Art were donated by Etta, who reportedly was a lover of writer and fellow art collector Gertrude Stein, be-

fore Alice B. Toklas came on the scene.

Among the characters in the play, besides the Cone sisters, are Stein, Toklas, Matisse, and the artist’s famous Blue Nude, who steps out of the canvas for a short performance.

The regional theater’s 25th season will end with a production, April 25 to May 13, 2018, of True West by the recently deceased playwright and movie actor Sam Shepard. The 1983 play has reached the designation of “true contemporary American classic,” according to Ritsch.

True West is about the sibling rivalry of two brothers who turn out to be not as different as they, and the audience, believe themselves to be. Ritsch described the work as both “heavy drama and very, very funny.”

It has also been called by critics “opaque,” “terrifying,” “surrealistic” and “naturalistic”— all part of Shepard’s contradictory genius. “You think you are watching one thing, while at the same time he’s presenting another,” according to the San Francisco Chronicle.

True West will be directed by Vincent Lancisi, artistic director of Baltimore’s Everyman Theater.

Ritsch, 48, has been artist director at

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Rep Stage going on five years. He said he chose the four plays “to honor the Howard County regional theater’s tradition of presenting contemporary American classics and new works.”

Tickets to all plays are $40 for adults,

35

$35 for those age 60+, and $15 for HCC students. However, Thursday tickets are just $10 for everyone. For more information, such as show times, or to buy tickets online, go to www.repstage.org or call the box office at (443) 518-1500.

The curtain rises across the county In addition to Rep Stage’s 25th season, other area theaters and orchestras have a full roster of shows this fall.

Here’s what’s on tap: Toby’s Dinner Theater, Aug. 31 to Nov. 12, Dreamgirls, 5900 Symphony Woods Rd., Columbia, (410) 730-8311, http://tobysdinnertheatre.com/ Red Branch Theatre Co., Sept.

22 to Oct. 14, Bridges of Madison County, 9130-I Red Branch Rd., Columbia, (410) 220-6517, https://redbranchtheatrecompany.com/ Howard Community College Theater, Sept. 9 to 10, Hyronomous A. Frog: The Frog Prince, Horowitz Center Smith Theatre, Campus Dr., Columbia, (443) 518-1000, www.howardcc.edu/discover/arts-culture/horowitz-center/student-theatre/index.html

Venus Theatre, Sept. 7-Oct. 1, Aglaonike’s Tiger, 21 C St., Laurel, (202) 236-4078, http://www.venustheatre.org/ Candlelight Concert Society, Oct. 8, Stefan Jackiw, violin, Anna Polonsky, piano, Horowitz Center Smith Theatre Campus Dr., Columbia, (410) 997-2324, www.candlelightconcerts.org Columbia Orchestra, Oct. 7, Sibelius & Chaplin, Howard County Center for the Arts, 8510 High Ridge Rd., Ellicott City, (410) 465-8778, www.columbiaorchestra.org Columbia Pro Cantare, Oct. 21, Carmina Burana, Jim Rouse Theatre, 5460 Trumpeter Rd., Columbia, (410) 730-8549, www.procantare.org — Alexis Bentz

Howard County 50+EXPO 2017!

ONLY $1 ADMISSION

Exhibits, health screenings, seminars and presentations to effectively plan for the future and age in place.

• 160+ Exhibitors • Capitol Steps — ONE SHOW ONLY! (11:00 AM; $5 suggested donation)

• AARP’s “America’s First Foodie” (James Beard Documentary at 1:00 PM)

• NEW! Virtual Dementia Tours • NEW! Preparedness Seminars • Flu Shots and Health Screenings

Friday, October 20 9 am - 4 pm Wilde Lake High School 5460 Trumpeter Road Columbia 21044 410-313-6410 (VOICE/RELAY) www.howardcountymd.gov/aging

#HoCoEXPO17 facebook.com/HoCoCommunity

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Arts & Style | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 7 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

New memoirs that enlighten and inform

By Dinah Rokach Autobiographies that succeed shed light on an interesting life and tell fascinating stories. What a great way to spend a lazy summer’s day relaxing with a good book while accompanying someone else on their life’s journey. Three recent autobiographies are noteworthy.

Popular spy novelist John le Carré, the

pseudonym of David Cornwell, reminisces about his life as a diplomat, spy, highly successful author, and son of a colorful con man in The Pigeon Tunnel: Stories From My Life.

Written with grace and charm, the octogenarian raconteur vividly recalls the formative episodes of his life. This master of prose re-tells his life in episodes rather than

ANSWERS TO CROSSWORD

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ANSWERS TO JUMBLE Jumbles: TASTY BAKED TETHER VANDAL Answer: When the X-rated movie was shown, it was -"BARELY" SEEN

in traditional, sequential narrative form.

This device suits him and his readers well.

Whether you’re a consummate consumer of his oeuvre or not, this autobiography stands on its own merit as a book that brings much pleasure and delight.

You’ll be amazed at the sheer amount of hard work involved in his writing of fiction.

His thrillers not only stem from a fertile imagination, but are grounded in meticulous research and fact finding. Le Carré has traveled to the far corners of the globe and to many of the world’s most dangerous locations ravaged by war and violence. He is not an author ensconced in his study. His memoir is therefore quite riveting and surprising.

The Pigeon Tunnel: Stories From My Life by John le Carré, 320 pages, Viking First Edition hardcover, Sept.

2016 Another well-written autobiography is The Word Detective by John Simpson, a highly accomplished lexicographer who edited the Oxford English Dictionary. His career spanned the decades that brought the venerable OED into the digital age.

The story of Simpson’s professional life is interwoven with poignant reflections of family life and the challenges of raising his beloved younger daughter.

Simpson writes about his working years among the academic stuffed shirts in Oxford with a wry sense of humor. The book’s self-effacing descriptions are quite charming. The clever device of pausing to delve into the origin, history and meaning of selected words in the text makes the book informative as well as entertaining. If you enjoyed William Safire’s “On Language” in the New York Times Sunday Magazine or read Ben Zimmer’s weekly Wall Street Journal column, John Simpson’s autobiography will enchant you.

The book sheds light on how technological advances of the last few decades have reshaped the most traditional and hidebound endeavors. You’ll learn about a profession that — contrary to what you may have thought — can be a passion for some and a challenging, mind-expanding journey to many.

The Word Detective: Searching for

the Meaning of It All at the Oxford English Dictionary by John Simpson, 384 pages, Basic Books hardcover, Oct. 2016 Coretta Scott King’s My Life, My Love, My Legacy is a bittersweet story. The late Mrs. King started work on her autobiography during her lifetime; a collaborator completed the book. Setting the record straight, giving herself and other women of the civil rights movement their deserved recognition, is only one reason this book is important.

The life of an ambitious and talented young girl reared in the rural South transformed by her marriage to the great civil rights leader is a compelling story. Trying to keep her own ambition alive in a time and place where men dominated, living under the constant threat of violence to her family, maintaining her abiding faith — these are all elements of a multi-faceted woman whom history has kept in the shadows.

This memoir brings to the fore the turbulent times of protest and the remarkable changes during the lifetime of Mrs. King.

The book opens the curtain on the private life of a celebrated man and his wife. It reminds us that those who toil in the shadows of greatness are worthy of history’s attention as well.

Mrs. King died in 2006 at the age of 78.

She did not live to become a grandmother, nor did she witness the election of Barack Obama. Her oldest daughter Yolanda survived her by only one year.

Narrating one’s own life’s story affords the protagonist the opportunity to dispel rumors and counter criticisms. Mrs. King staunchly defends her husband from gossip about his infidelity.

In her lifetime, she was labelled the “Black Jackie” for what was perceived as her demanding and imperial demeanor.

This version of events tells her side of the story with warmth and humility. She earns our respect in this revealing account.

Coretta Scott King gains our compassion for her suffering and our admiration for her courage in the face of tragedy.

My Life, My Love, My Legacy by Coretta Scott King as told to the Rev. Dr. Barbara Reynolds, 368 pages, Henry Holt and Co. hardcover, Jan. 2017

Going Home Cremation Service IT BENEF TING Neighbor Ride d County Howaron Aging Office

Independence’s Vivian L. Reid Community Fund

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(301) 854-9038 or 1 (866) 728-4663 (toll free) call for your FREE information package

Visit us at www.GoingHomeCremation.com

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 7

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Arts & Style

The best selling auto-loading scooter in Europe is now available in the US!

Finally... A scooter that loads itself in and out of your car.

In

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ip cl pin ud g ed

Introducing the Quingo® Flyte - the powerful, portable mobility scooter that you never have to lift. Now featuring patented 5-Wheel Anti-Tip Technology.

It’s a sad fact. Many people who have mobility issues and could benefit from a scooter aren’t able to use them away from home. Struggling to get it into a car or loading it onto a bumper-mounted lift just isn’t worth the effort.

Now, there’s a better scooter, the Quingo® Flyte. It’s easy to use, even for one person, and requires no more effort than closing a car’s tailgate. Clever design enables it to fit into SUV’s, mini-vans, crossovers and hatchbacks.

This scooter provides 5-Wheel Anti-Tip Technology for stability, agility and comfort with its unique wheel

Only one scooter is this powerful and portable

• Patented 5-Wheel Stability

TM

• • • • •

by Quingo takes

you almost anywhere.

No dismantling or lifting of heavy scooter parts.

Fits most SUV’s, mini-vans, crossovers and hatchbacks.

Large motor + up to 350 pound capacity.

Extra long range with BIG scooter performance.

Won’t bounce around in your car– locks in place.

Available in portable, auto-loading and luxury models

“For the first time in years I’ve been able to go with my granddaughters to the mall.

A crowd gathers every time I unload my scooter from my car!”

– Judi K, Exeter, CA configuration. The patented 5-wheel BumpmasterTM design by Quingo enables it to ride safely over a wide variety of surfaces. It uses 4 ultra slim powerful batteries providing a range of up to 23 miles on a single charge.

The best selling auto-loading scooter in Europe is now available in the US! Don’t wait to take advantage of this exciting new technology, call today to find out more.

featuring 5-Wheel Anti-Tip Technology

Introductory U.S. price $6,995 Shipping Included.

1-888-894-4886 See it in action at www.QuingoUSA.com Medicare and Medicaid no longer subsidize scooter sales. Today, cheaper scooters are cheaper for a reason.

Get the most out of your investment with the best scooter on the market today.

Please mention code 106859 when ordering. © 2017 firstSTREET for Boomers and Beyond, Inc.

83716

Quingo® Flyte can load and unload itself in less than 60 seconds using an innovative ramp and a simple remote.

The built-in guide rails can be installed in minutes and safely direct your scooter to ground level.

Winner of the 2015 International Innovation Award

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S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 7 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

Crossword Puzzle Daily crosswords can be found on our website: www.TheBeaconNewspapers.com Click on Puzzles Plus Film School By 1

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1. Ppetting zzoo pparticipant A 6. Find Waldo 10. Stylish 14. Tiny amounts 15. Apple spray 16. Oahu to-to 17. Dog bred to herd cattle 18. Octave component 19. ___ A Sketch (1998 entry into the Toy Hall of Fame) 20.Start of a Roger Ebert quote (slightly edited to fit your screen) 23. Children’s Tylenol dosage unit 24. “___ corny as Kansas in August” 25. ___-frutti (Italian for “all fruits”) 28. It launched two days after Country Music Television (CMT) in 1983 29. Hall-of-Famer Mel 30. Obnoxious jerk 32. Second part of quote 38. The A in NBA, but not MBA 39. Yale student 40. Move like The Blob 41. Third part of quote 46. Table holder 47. Push and pull 48. Start to -law or -med 49. “The real secrets are not the ___ tell” (Mason Cooley) 51. Ride in a hot air balloon 53. Owl’s question 56. Conclusion of quote 59. Global conflict that led to the Baby Boom 62. Darken a car window 63. Last inning, usually 64. Get what you deserve 65. A quarter’s has 119 ridges 66. Crystal-lined stone 67. Some Like It Hot costumes 68. Tarot card dealer 69. Screw-up

1. Culturally acceptable 2. Takes a five-finger discount 3. ___ to the Moon (Groundbreaking 1902 movie) 4. GQ and SI 5. Senseless 6. Mr. Claus, to pals 7. John Deere’s were made of steel 8. All senators take one 9. Pick up the tab 10. Skirt fold 11. Like last year’s styles 12. ___ fly (run-scoring out in baseball) 13. “Can you say that again?”

21. Prefix for -potent or -present 22. Item in a ballerina’s wardrobe 26. Culturally unacceptable 27. Japanese car maker 28. Fancy popcorn holders 29. Brief newspaper bio.

31. Proofer’s second thought 32. Pony Express delivery 33. Bone: Prefix 34. Gesture of peace 35. Uses needles and thread 36. Heavyweight champion during the US bicentennial 37. One of Hamlet’s options 42. Quiet down, please 43. Poppy products 44. Fitness centers 45. Select the bride and groom 50. “Dallas” family name 51. Blacken a marshmallow 52. Cousin to a weasel or badger 53. Present a Lifetime Achievement Award 54. Perform better than 55. None of the above 57. Top selling liquid laundry detergent 58. German beer 59. Walk down the aisle 60. ___ and Peace 61. Gold fund, reserved for one’s golden years

Answers on page 36.

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 7

CLASSIFIEDS The Beacon prints classified advertising under the following headings: Business & Employment

Opportunities; Caregivers;

Computer Services; Entertainment; For Sale; For Sale/Rent: Real Estate; Free; Health; Home/ Handyman Services; Miscellaneous; Personals; Personal Services; Vacation Opportunities; and Wanted. For submission guide-

Say you saw it in the Beacon

For Rent/Sale: Real Estate ROOMS MONTPELIER/LAUREL: Female, non-smoker, no pets, upstairs, drug free and quiet. Kitchen (own refrigerator), laundry, patio. Full-time employed, own auto. Pool/tennis access. 1-301-676-3996.

RETIRED MSW MOVING FROM OREGON in Mid-October to be close to family. Seeks house share in Frederick, Howard or Baltimore counties. Reply to oregontomaryland@gmail.com.

RENTING FURNISHED ONE-BEDROOM, one full bath for $750 per month, including utilities. Also selling three-piece living room set for $800. If interested, please call 240-350-9392.

lines and deadlines, see the box on the right.

For Sale

TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED Deadlines and Payments: Ad text and payment is due by the 5th of each month.

Note: Only ads received and prepaid by the deadline will be included in the next month’s issue. Please type or print your ad carefully. Include a number where you can be reached in the event of a question.

Payment is due with ad. We do not accept ads by phone or fax, nor do we accept credit cards.

Private Party Text Ads: For individuals seeking to buy or sell particular items, or place a personal ad. Each ad is $10 for 25 words, 25 cents for each additional word.

Business Text Ads: For parties engaged in an ongoing business enterprise. Each ad is $25 for 25 words, 50 cents for each additional word.

Note: Each real estate listing counts as one business text ad.

Send your classified ad with check or money order, payable to the Beacon, to:

The Beacon, Baltimore Classified Dept.

P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915-2227

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 em-

2 SALVADOR DALI woodblock prints from Dante’s Divine Comedy. Signed and framed.

Asking $900 for the pair. Can email pictures if desired. Call Steve 410-913-1653.

Home/Handyman Services SANFORD & SON JUNK REMOVAL. Trash + Junk removal, house & estate cleanouts, garage + basement cleanouts. Demolition – Shed, deck fence + pool removal. Licensed + insured. Free estimates over the phone. Call 7 days a week, 7 am to 7 pm. 410-746-5090.

JUNK HAULING — RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL junk removal, attic and garage cleanouts, light demolition. $50 off. “Call Today, We’ll Haul Away.” HoCoHaulers.com. 410-2926700.

ployment or the sale or rental of real estate.

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

Wanted COLLECTOR BUYING MILITARY ITEMS: Helmets, weapons, knives, swords, bayonets, web gear, uniforms, etc. from all wars and countries. Also Lionel Toy Trains, and coin operated machines. Will pay top prices for my personal collection. Discreet consultations. Call Fred, 301-910-0783.

Wanted

Wanted

MONEY, TIME TO SELL! Make the right choice. Call Greg, 717-658-7954. We buy jewelry, coins, silver, antiques, watches, gold, art, paper money, toys, bottles, etc. No middleman, no fees, no overhead means more money for your stuff. Give me a call, and let’s do business.717-658-7954.

CASH FOR JEWELRY: gold, silver, costume, diamonds, watches, scrap gold, coins. Call Gary, 301-520-0755. www.atticllc.com.

Thanks for reading!

BEACON BITS

Sept. 15+

ARTS WEEKEND

The Howard County City for the Arts Council presents “Road to the Arts” weekend from Friday through Sunday, Sept. 15 to 17.

Explore the county’s visual arts scene, with gallery openings and special exhibits, including the County Arts Council’s own “Selections from the Rouse Company” and “The Howard Hughes Corporation Art Collection, both open in Ellicott City on Friday from 6 to 8 p.m. Other exhibits include, the African Art Museum of Maryland’s exhibit on Saturday from 1 to 3 p.m. in Fulton; the Meeting House Gallery’s painting exhibit in Columbia on Saturday from 1 to 3 p.m., the HorseSpirit Arts Gallery’s “Creative Expressions” in Ellicott City on Saturday from 1 to 4 p.m., and many more. For more information and a complete listing of all the exhibits, locations and times, visit www.hocoarts.org or call (410) 313-2787.

ADVERTISERS IN THIS ISSUE Events

Housing

World Class Chiropractic . . . . . . .8

Beacon 50+Expo . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 COGS Meeting . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36 GreekFest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Howard County 50 Plus Expo . .35

Retail/Services

Going Home Cremations . . . . . .36 Harry H. Witzke’s Family Funeral Home, Inc. . . . . . . . . .35 Sol Levinson & Bros., Inc. . . . . .29

Alta @ Regency Crest . . . . . . . .15 Bayleigh Chase/Integrace . . . . . .27 Brooke Grove . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40 Buckingham’s Choice/ Integrace . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27 Charlestown/Erickson Living . . .12 Fairhaven/Integrace . . . . . . . . . . .27 Heartlands Senior Living . . . . . .16 Homecrest House . . . . . . . . . . . .15 Lutheran Village at Miller’s Grant . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33 Olney Assisted Living . . . . . . . .10 Park View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Somerford Place . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 Vantage House . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

Hearing Services

Legal Services

Miracle-Ear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 Live Better Hearing . . . . . . . . . . .9

Felinton Elder Law . . . . . . . . . . .27 Frank, Frank & Scherr, LLC . . . .26 Law Office of Karen Ellsworth .29

Financial Services Capital Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 First Maryland Disability Trust .27 PENFED Financial Services . . . .26

Funeral Services

Home Health Care A-1 Action Nursing Care . . . . . .15 Options for Senior America . . . .12

39

Medical/Health Medical Eye Center . . . . . . . . . . .6

Budget Bath . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Columbia’s Village Centers . . . .33 Perfect Sleep Chair . . . . . . . . . . .28 Quingo Scooter . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37

Senior Services Senior Connection . . . . . . . . .17-24

Skilled Nursing & Rehab CommuniCare . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

Technology Services TechMedic4U . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

Theatre/Entertainment Toby’s Dinner Theatre . . . . . . . . .34

Tour & Travel Eyre Tour & Travel . . . . . . . . . . .31 Nexus Holidays . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31

40 More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 7 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

September 2017

UPCOMING SEMINARS & EVENTS at Brooke Grove retirement village

As experts in senior care and memory support, Brooke Grove Retirement Village is pleased to offer seminars and events that promote physical, spiritual and mental well-being.

All seminars and events will be held at Brooke Grove Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, located at 18131 Slade School Road on the Brooke Grove Retirement Village campus, unless otherwise noted. Please register with Toni Davis at 301-388-7209 or tdavis@bgf.org.

healthy living class: Everyday Balance September 11 through October 18 MONDAYS & WEDNESDAYS 10-10:30 A.M.

Learn techniques and exercises to improve balance and reduce your risk of falls.

Six-week Session Fee: $30 Register by September 8

living well seminar: “Walking: The Miracle Exercise”

Alzheimer’s Support Group WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 20 3:30-4:30 P.M.

support for the caregiver seminar: “Understanding and Responding to Dementia-related Behavior”

MONDAYS & WEDNESDAYS 3:30-4:30 P.M.

Improve posture, balance and circulation while also increasing strength, muscle control and mobility.

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 26 • 2-3 P.M.

Learn how to decode behavioral messages, identify common behavior triggers and explore strategies to intervene appropriately.

FREE Register by September 24

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 20 1-2:15 P.M.

Motivate yourself! Learn the health benefits of walking and explore the research behind them.

FREE Register by September 18

Parkinson’s Exercise Classes

Parkinson’s Support Group 2ND WEDNESDAY OF EACH MONTH 2 P.M.

Healthy Living Class: Walking Club September 27 through November 1 WEDNESDAYS • 11-11:30 A.M.

A weekly stroll through Brooke Grove’s beautiful, 220-acre campus.

Six-week Session Fee: $20 Register by September 24

18100 Slade School Road, Sandy Spring, MD 20860

301-260-2320 · www.bgf.org

Independent living

assisted living

rehabilitation

long-term care

memory support