September 2021 | Howard County Beacon

The Howard County

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More than 30,000 readers throughout Howard County

Going solar in Howard County

County’s renewable energy push Howard County Energy Manager Leah Miller hopes more residents will follow the lead of people like Silver-Isenstadt.

Through its website livegreenhoward.com, the county offers residents ways to incorporate solar energy in their homes and adopt other sustainability measures.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF HOWARD COUNTY

By Catherine Brown Howard County resident Ari Silver-Isenstadt has spent the last decade trying to reduce his carbon footprint to protect the environment, including switching to renewable energy.

He and his wife first got their feet wet with renewable energy more than 10 years ago, when they installed solar thermal panels that used the heat of the sun to warm their hot water tank.

After that initial foray into renewable energy, Silver-Isenstadt had solar panels installed on the roof of their Laurel house — twice.

The first time, they purchased some panels using federal, state and local tax incentives that lowered the upfront cost of ownership.

The second time, they leased panels through a solar company so there was little to no upfront cost; only a monthly fee covering the panels plus power. In both cases, they saved money on their electric bills.

“Solar doesn’t power all our electricity needs,” Silver-Isenstadt said, “but the solar panels drive the meter backwards.” In fact, he said, some months they haven’t had to pay energy bills at all.

Silver-Isenstadt’s use of renewable energy, along with his electric vehicle and vegan diet, means that his carbon footprint is much lower than the average American’s.

“We still have a disappointingly high carbon footprint, but I’m happy with what we have been able to do,” he said.

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Howard County employee Amy Gowan speaks in May at Rural Rhythm Farm in Dayton, one of three county farms setting aside land for a “solar farm.” The solar panels to be installed on the farm will generate energy for homeowners eager to power their homes with renewable solar energy. In May, a law was passed to promote solar energy generation throughout the county.

One way to “go solar” is to purchase rooftop panels to install on a south-facing, sloped roof. As Silver-Isenstadt found, the initial investment can be expensive, costing on average $15,000 to $25,000, before tax

credits. Miller noted, however, that “the energy cost savings can be worthwhile.”

Another option is to hire a company to

ARTS & STYLE

Ellicott City musician releases lucky 13th album, finished during pandemic lockdowns page 22

See SOLAR, page 24

FITNESS & HEALTH k Do hair dyes cause cancer? k Myths about hydration

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Living with lemons A surprising (to me) number of readers pletely normal — except that I can’t sit and friends have been asking me when down for more than five minutes at a time they will get to hear the new without the pain starting to piano compositions I wrote return. during my recent sabbatical.

So, I now use a “standing It had certainly been my desk,” which suits me fine, and intention to record myself I stand or walk all day long, playing them and to make the even while eating. There are videos available to all on only a few things that this genYouTube. It still is, actually. erally gets in the way of. One is But reality has intervened driving or being driven, and in the form of a rather painful another is practicing the piano. bad back. My doctor has diThey apparently haven’t agnosed me with “lumbar FROM THE yet invented a “standing baby radiculopathy,” and I find the PUBLISHER grand” (it’s not available on term apropos, as it has me By Stuart P. Rosenthal Amazon, so it must not exist). feeling “radiculous” in a numBut I’ve come up with the ber of situations. next best thing: I ordered a portable elecYou see, it mostly affects me pain-wise tric piano keyboard that I intend to put on in the mornings, when it takes anywhere my standing desk. I fully expect to feel like from 30 minutes to two hours before I can Elton John once I start playing it when it take more than a few steps away from my arrives in a few days. bed upon wakeup. Sharp pains shoot down I tell you all this not to ask for your symmy leg, and I find myself panting from the pathy (not that there’s anything wrong aftermath for a few minutes every time I with that). Rather, just to explain why I try to take another step. haven’t gotten to the point of making the But the pain gradually fades away, and I promised videos. find the rest of my day I feel almost comBut in addition, I want to take a moment

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here to credit my late father for setting an example I am striving to emulate.

My dad was not a complainer. He had some difficult experiences in his lifetime, both when young and when old, but he wasn’t one to dwell on his pains or problems.

For example, when he developed swallowing issues while hospitalized for pneumonia in his late 80s, he didn’t seem to flinch when the doctors said they would need to insert a feeding tube.

We all thought it was to be a temporary measure, but it ended up being a permanent one that he lived with for another six years or so. He always maintained that preserving life is an all-important value, and you do what you need to do to keep on living.

And since he prized his independence and didn’t want a nurse or other aide handling his various pills and feeding tube apparatus, he quickly learned how to do it all himself.

When I would visit, he would grudgingly allow me to fetch this or that, or to wash out the utensils when he was done, but he always insisted on getting his pills, grinding them finely in a special pill grinder, mixing them with the liquid diet and pouring it all into his feeding tube.

Though he didn’t coin the phrase, what

popped into my head as I wrote this column is that dad’s motto could have been: “When life give you lemons, get a juicer.”

While he knew you can’t always turn lemons into lemonade — some things can never be made sweet — you can sometimes find ways to power through the sourness and move on with your life as best you can.

So that’s what I’m trying to do, at the same time as I’m doing the PT exercises, taking the long walks, and doing whatever else my doctor tells me has the best chance of getting me through this rough patch and back to good health.

My “juicer,” I hope, will be my electronic keyboard, and I intend to practice and try to memorize my new pieces so I can video myself (in five-minute increments) playing them on a real piano.

So, who knows? I may well have them ready for next month. And I may even be able to get up in the morning and walk like a normal person again.

I can tell you one thing: when I can perform those once simple tasks again, I sure will appreciate them a lot more than I did a few months ago.

Letters to the editor Readers are encouraged to share their opinion on any matter addressed in the Beacon as well as on political and social issues of the day.

Mail your Letter to the Editor to The Beacon, P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915, or email info@thebeaconnewspapers.com.

Please include your name, address and telephone number for verification.

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 Richmond, Va. (Fifty Plus).

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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 President/Associate Publisher – Judith K. Rosenthal Executive Vice President – Gordon Hasenei Managing Editor – Margaret Foster

Dear Editor: Concerning your August cover story, “Stay happy by staying connected,” I disagree with the whole thing, beginning at the opening line. I call to your attention the song by Paul Simon which goes, “I am a rock/I am an island.”

For a myriad of people, “happy” is not — frequently never was — a realistic ex-

pectation.

As for connection, I am reminded of what Michael Harris wrote in a 2017 book: “Not everyone needs more socialization. Indeed, many of us are desperately in need of isolation.”

Edward B. Frohnet Ellicott City, MD

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Aug. 31+

TREE TO ART

Artists Gallery in Ellicott City is hosting an exhibition of woodcuts by local artists Ellen Corddry and woodwork by Gene Adcock and Dave McCann. The exhibit runs from Tues., Aug. 31 to Sun., Sept. 26. Meet the artists in person on Sat., Sept. 18 from 4 to 6 p.m. For more information, visit artistsgalleryec.com.

Art Director – Kyle Gregory Director of Operations – Roger King Advertising Representatives – Steve Levin, Alan Spiegel Assistant Editor – Catherine Brown Content Manager – Ashley Griffin

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

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Sept. 9

VIRTUAL TOUR OF ARTIST’S STUDIO

Enjoy a free virtual happy hour with the American Visionary Art Museum. Tour the studio of artist Betsy Youngquist, who uses beads to transform found objects into sculpture. This event takes place Thurs., Sept. 9 from 7 to 8 p.m. For more information and to RSVP, visit bit.ly/ArtistHappyHour.

Ongoing

DEMENTIA FRIENDS

Join a support group, Dementia Friends, to better understand dementia. One-hour virtual sessions take place the first Friday of each month at 1 p.m. and the third Thursday of each month at 10 a.m. Visit dffairfax.org for more information.

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Health Fitness &

BETTER THAN SURGERY? Ablation is a viable and less intrusive alternative to prostate cancer surgery OFF THE CUFF How to choose the best blood pressure monitor for you TURNING THOUGHTS INTO WORDS Technology enables paralyzed man to communicate his thoughts FREE HEALTHY MEALS Diabetics can eat for free; enroll in a Hopkins study testing different diets

Do hair dyes increase the risk of cancer?

By Shinjita Das, M.D. Personal use of hair dyes is very common, with estimates that 50% or more of women and 10% of men over age 40 color their hair. As natural hair colors get rooted out, let’s cut to a layered question: do permanent hair dyes increase cancer risk?

Hair dyes come in three major varieties: oxidative (permanent), direct (semi-permanent or temporary), and natural dyes.

Most hair dyes used in the U.S. and Europe, both do-it-yourself dyes and those used in salons, are permanent dyes. They undergo chemical reactions to create pigment that deposits on hair shafts — and may pose the greatest cancer risk.

People are exposed to chemicals in hair dyes through direct skin contact or by inhaling fumes during the coloring process.

Occupational exposure to hair dye, as experienced by hairstylists, has been classified as probably cancer-causing. However, it remains unclear whether personal use of permanent hair dyes increases risk for cancer or cancer-related death.

Many studies have explored the relationship between personal hair dye use and risk of cancer or cancer-related death. Conflicting findings have resulted from imperfect studies due to small study populations, short follow-up times, inadequate classification of exposures (personal

or occupational) or hair dye type (permanent versus non-permanent), and incomplete accounting of cancer-specific risk factors beyond permanent hair dye use.

Study finds little increase in risk In a recent study published in The BMJ, a British medical journal, researchers at Harvard Medical School evaluated personal hair dye use and risk of cancer and cancer-related death.

The study authors analyzed survey data from 117,200 women enrolled in the Nurses’ Health Study, collected over 36 years beginning in 1976. They tabulated information that included age, race, body mass index, smoking status, alcohol intake, natural hair color, permanent hair dye use (“ever-user” versus “never-user,” age at first use, duration of use, frequency of use), and risk factors for specific types of cancer.

Compared to non-hair dye users, participants who had ever used permanent hair dyes did not have an overall higher risk for cancer or cancer-related deaths.

Among specific cancers, there was slightly higher risk for basal cell carcinoma (the most common type of skin cancer) in ever-users compared to non-users. Risk for certain breast cancers and ovarian cancers seemed to increase with longer-term use of permanent dye.

Women with naturally dark hair seemed to have increased risk for Hodgkin’s lym-

phoma, and women with naturally light hair were observed to have higher risk for basal cell carcinoma.

The authors were cautious in reporting their findings, concluding that further investigation is needed to better understand associations that were identified. In addition, we should keep in mind that association does not prove causality.

Some study limitations This was a large, well-designed study with high participant response rates. The researchers analyzed detailed data, allowing them to tease out the degree to which cancer risk was attributable to personal permanent hair dye use rather than to other potential risk factors.

This study also had several limitations.

First, participants were female nurses of mostly European descent, meaning the findings are not necessarily generalizable to men or to other racial or ethnic groups.

Next, the study could not account for every single cancer risk factor (for example, exposure to pesticides and other environmental chemicals).

Data were not collected on other hair grooming products beyond hair dyes, and subjects may have mistakenly reported use of permanent hair dyes when they were in fact using semi-permanent or natural dyes.

Without data on actual color of hair dyes

used, the authors assumed that hair dye color correlated with natural shades of hair. This assumption may miscalculate true chemical exposures — such as in the case of dark-haired users who had additional chemical exposures from stripping their natural darker pigment.

To dye or not to dye?

After the pandemic, some may reconsider whether to dye their hair. The key highlights from this study are: —Personal permanent hair dye use did not increase risk for most cancers or cancer-related death. This is reassuring, but continued safety monitoring is needed.

—Additional research is needed to study diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds, specific hair dye colors (light versus dark), cancer subtypes, and exposure levels (personal versus occupational).

Though this study exposed possible associations between permanent hair dye use and increased risk for some cancers, there is not enough new evidence to move the needle on recommendations for personal permanent hair dye use.

Until more is known, consider your personal and family histories when deciding whether to use permanent hair dyes.

When in doubt, check with your doctor for more guidance. © 2021 Harvard University. Distributed

by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

How much water do you really need daily?

By Jessica Migala As the warm weather persists, you’ve probably got your water bottle out. And that’s a good thing.

“Every single cell in your body needs fluid to function properly,” said Angie Eakin, M.D., a family medicine physician in Spokane, Washington. “That’s why even mild dehydration can make you irritable, foggy-headed and headachy.”

But while it’s smart to keep sipping, a lot of conventional wisdom about hydrating is just plain false.

Myth: We’re all chronically dehydrated.

Fact: Not if you eat a healthy diet.

Moisture in food contributes about 20% of the fluid you need. So if you avoid “dry”

foods like heavily processed crackers, fill up on fruits and veggies, and drink when you’re thirsty, you should stay well hydrated, even if you’re not chugalugging, according to Barbara Rolls, Ph.D., a nutrition professor at Pennsylvania State University.

Myth: It’s easy to mistake thirst for hunger.

Fact: Your body knows the difference.

You’re unlikely to mix up true thirst and hunger because the sensations aren’t even similar. “They feel different and are regulated by separate mechanisms in your body,” Rolls said.

When you’re low on fluids, your cell and blood volumes decrease, and you get an unpleasantly dry, tacky-feeling mouth.

Hunger, on the other hand, is driven by

gut hormones, nutrients and glucose, and is heralded by stomach rumbles and a sensation of emptiness.

Myth: You need to drink at least 64 ounces of water a day.

Fact: That’s a random number.

“There’s not a lot of hard-core evidence that you have to drink this amount,” Eakin said. You might need more if you live in a hot and humid climate, exercise a ton or are pregnant.

Most healthy adults will hit the right amount by following their own thirst cues.

Myth: Thirsty? You’re already dehydrated.

Fact: You could use a drink, but it’s not a crisis.

Folks who tout this myth would have

you believe that thirst is something you should never feel, ever. But thirst is simply your body’s way of saying, “Hey, maybe you ought to take a swig from your water bottle.”

It’s OK to feel a little thirsty — just don’t wait too long to grab a drink. Actual dehydration (the kind that endangers your health) comes with more serious ill effects, like migraines and dizziness.

Myth: You should drink a lot during exercise.

Fact: Let thirst be your guide.

You may think it’s good to glug loads of water during spin class — or that it can’t hurt.

But there is such a thing as overhydration.

See WATER, page 5

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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 2 1

Will COVID-19 booster shots be needed?

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Hyponatremia, in which the level of sodium in your blood gets too low, can be caused by drinking large volumes of fluid, even with electrolytes. It’s rare, but it can be deadly.

“There is no reason to drink more than your body needs, and the sensor that tells us how much we need is thirst,” said Mitchell Rosner, M.D., professor of medicine at the University of Virginia Health System.

Myth: Water will curb your appetite.

See BOOSTER, page 7

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From page 4

munity to the coronavirus wanes. That, too, could require a booster shot.

Virus-fighting antibodies do gradually wane. That’s normal since the body

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Water

Fact: Maybe, but not for the reason you think.

Though eating soup or another water-rich food at the start of a meal will fill you up, “plain water empties out of your stomach quickly,” Rolls said. On the other hand, she points out, research shows that if you believe water can tame your appetite, it might.

Health delivers relevant information in clear, jargon-free language that puts health into context in peoples’ lives. Online at health.com. © 2021 Meredith Corporation. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

nated more recently, the CDC’s Dr. Jay Butler said.

Is the booster question all about new variants?

No, scientists also are watching to see how much vaccinated people’s overall im-

I N F O R M AT I O N

cause it could significantly boost levels of virus-fighting antibodies, possibly helping ward off worrisome mutants.

The companies haven’t publicly released data, and U.S. health officials issued a sharp response that boosters aren’t yet needed and that the government, not vaccine makers, will decide if and when that changes.

The World Health Organization said in July there is not enough evidence to show that third doses are needed. It said the scarce shots should be shared with poor countries instead of being used by rich countries as boosters.

What’s the evidence that vaccine protection is strong?

An Associated Press analysis in June found nearly all COVID-19 deaths in the U.S. are occurring among the unvaccinated.

In July, infections and hospitalizations began increasing as the highly contagious Delta variant spread. But the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said the surges are driven by the least vaccinated parts of a country that has plenty of shots if people would only take them.

No vaccine is perfect, meaning fully vaccinated people occasionally will get infected, but those so-called breakthrough cases usually are mild. Officials monitoring the need for boosters are watching closely for any jumps in serious breakthrough infections.

So far, the news is good: The people first in line for vaccines back in December and January don’t seem to be at higher risk for breakthrough infections than those vacci-

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By Lauran Neergaard Just because some vaccine manufacturers want to offer COVID-19 boosters doesn’t mean people will be lining up for them anytime soon. U.S. and international health authorities say that, for now, the fully vaccinated seem well protected.

Globally, experts are watching closely to determine if and when people might need another shot. At the same time, many suggest the priority for the time being should be vaccinations, noting that worrisome coronavirus mutants wouldn’t be popping up so fast if more of the U.S. and the rest of the world had gotten the initial round of shots.

“If you want to stop hearing about the variant of the week,” said Jennifer Nuzzo, a Johns Hopkins University public health specialist, “we need to do more work to make sure all countries have more access to vaccines.”

Here are some questions and answers about vaccine immunity and boosters: What’s prompting all the booster debate?

U.S. health officials have long said that people one day might need a booster — after all, they do for many other vaccines.

That’s why studies are underway to test different approaches: simple third doses, mixand-match tests using a different brand for a third dose, or experimental boosters tweaked to better match different variants.

But in July, Pfizer and its German partner BioNTech announced that in August, they plan to seek Food and Drug Administration authorization of a third dose be-

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

Advances in prostate cancer treatment

By Chandler Dora, M.D. Dear Mayo Clinic: My husband was diagnosed with prostate cancer, and we are looking at treatment options. One doctor suggested a prostatectomy, but my husband finds ablation appealing because of quality-oflife advantages.

I’ve been reading about ablations and came across information about dif ferent techniques. I am wondering if one technique or process is better, or if surger y is more successful?

A: I’m sorr y to hear that your husband is dealing with prostate cancer, which is the most common cancer in

American men. Approximately 192,000 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2020, according to the American Cancer Society.

Prostate cancer is more likely to develop in older men, typically those over 60, and it is more common in African American men. Fortunately, given advances in care, most men will not die from their prostate cancer.

There are many options for treating prostate cancer, depending on the grade and stage of the cancer. In recent years, the guidelines for treating prostate cancer have changed. Also, technological advances in imaging and treatment have made it possible for some men to avoid

radical surgery that may come with adverse side effects.

What is ablation?

Ablation is a generic or nonspecific term for destroying tissue. In recent years, surgeons are finding that ablation is a viable alternative to traditional surgery.

In terms of prostate cancer, ablation means the reliable and precise destruction of cancerous tissue while avoiding structures important for normal sexual and urinary function. Over the years, many types of energy have been used to ablate prostate cancer, including heat generated by ultrasound or laser, and cold generated by expansion of gas.

The ability to control the application of the heat or cold to keep it within an intended boundary, without it spreading even 1 or 2 millimeters beyond, has proven difficult.

Ultrasound ablation methods

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The most common type of ultrasound ablation has been transrectal high-intensity focused ultrasound, or HIFU. During this treatment, a rectal probe is inserted, and the treatment is done using ultrasound.

However, many prostates are beyond the maximum size limits that can be treated with transrectal high-intensity focused ultrasound.

A promising new technology that is in clinical trials at select centers around the country is building on the rapidly emerging role of the MRI scanner to monitor real-time temperatures in the prostate.

Known as transurethral ultrasound ablation, or TULSA, this procedure is performed while the patient (under anesthesia) is in the MRI scanner. It uses software that provides thermometry or real-time temperatures within the prostate and surrounding structures. This allows for more

Early results are promising Although this is a new technology and many years of follow-up will be required to demonstrate equivalency to treatments such as radical prostatectomy, early results have been encouraging, especially considering how long patients remain cancer-free three years after surgery.

The clinical trials have proven that this treatment is superior to surgery and radiation in preserving urinary and sexual function after three years. This preservation of function translates into improved quality of life.

Mayo Clinic in Florida is the only Mayo Clinic location that offers this technique.

Johns Hopkins also offers the TULSA procedure. Patients are selected for this procedure based on prostate anatomy, as well as a review of MRIs, PSA results, biopsy pathology reports and treatment goals.

As different facilities have different infrastructures and expertise, your husband’s healthcare provider can discuss with him the availability of ablation techniques and which technique, if any, would be most appropriate.

Also, consider obtaining a second opinion. © 2021 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

BEACON BITS

Sept. 9

TAKING ACTION FOR HEALTH EQUITY

Learn more about racial health disparities in Howard County in this free virtual event on Thurs., Sept. 9 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Hosted by the Howard County Library, this event includes a brief presentation by Horizon Foundation as well as conversations with local leaders and organizations. For more information and to register, visit bit.ly/HCHealthEquity.

Sept. 9

vantagepointresidences.org 5400 Vantage Point Road, Columbia, MD 21044

precision during the treatment.

The temperatures are sent to the ablation device so the power output from the device is continuously adjusted to achieve the desired temperature at the boundary between the prostate and the surrounding normal structures. The temperature is continuously monitored every six seconds with MRI thermometry.

Transurethral ultrasound ablation is a refinement of previous ultrasound-based treatments that do not provide real-time monitoring of temperatures within the prostate.

TECH DISCUSSION GROUP

Join a Lunch and Learn technology discussion group about the newest technology trends. This group meets virtually every Thursday from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. For more information and to register, visit bit.ly/TechLunchLearn.

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Fitness & Health

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 2 1

Booster From page 5 doesn’t need to be on high alert forever.

But antibodies aren’t its only defense.

By the time those levels drop, the body has formed backups. They include memory B cells that, the next time you’re exposed, “explode, and they start dividing like mad” to make new antibodies, said University of Pennsylvania immunologist Scott Hensley.

Another backup: T cells that kill virusinfected cells to help keep a breakthrough case from becoming severe.

Lab studies signal antibodies aren’t as potent against the Delta variant as they are against some earlier versions of the coronavirus but are still protective.

Specialists worry more about the prospect of future mutants that might escape today’s vaccines, something preventable only by cracking down on viral spread everywhere.

How are other countries doing against the Delta variant?

Real-world data from England, Scotland, Canada and Israel show that the vaccines most widely used in Western countries continue to provide strong protection. Researchers in Britain found two doses of the Pfizer vaccine, for example, are 96% protective against hospitalization with the Delta variant and 88% effective against symptomatic infection.

Israel recently reported preliminary data suggesting protection against mild Delta infection has dipped lower, to 64%.

But protection against severe illness remained high.

There’s less information about how well other vaccines hold up against the Delta

BEACON BITS

Aug. 19+

variant. Thailand announced this week that health workers who had received two doses of a Chinese vaccine would be given a booster shot made by AstraZeneca.

Could some people need a booster before the entire population?

That’s possible. Israel began dispensing third doses of the Pfizer vaccine to transplant recipients and other patients with weak immune systems. The reason: People who take certain immune-suppressing medications don’t react as strongly to any vaccinations — not just COVID-19 vaccines — as healthy people (see above).

France already had a similar third-dose policy for the immunocompromised. And even though it’s not authorized in the U.S., some transplant recipients are seeking out a third dose in hopes of more protection.

It’s not yet proven if a third dose helps and, if so, who needs one and when. The first large study of the strategy is beginning in thousands of patients in Norway.

—AP

BEACON BITS

Sept. 21+

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

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 2021 session of the Maryland General Assembly. Classroom instruction will be 100% virtual and begin on Sept. 21 and end on Dec. 2, 2021. Visit sph.umd.edu/legacyleaders. For more information or to apply, contact Wesley Queen at or (301) 405-2529.

to Sept. 5

LAKEFRONT SUMMER FESTIVAL

Enjoy free outdoor concerts at the Downtown Columbia Lakefront every Thursday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and every Sunday at 6:30 p.m. through Sept. 5. For the full schedule, visit bit.ly/LakefrontSummerFestival.

Ongoing

BACK TO SCHOOL DRIVE

The Children’s Home is collecting back-to-school supplies for vulnerable kids across Maryland. Learn about three ways to give and ensure students have the tools they need to succeed in school this year by visiting thechildrenshome.net or calling (410) 744-7310.

FIND Y FIND YOUR OUR N NEW EW H HOME OME A AT T

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The Howard County General Hospital is offering free Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines on Tues., Aug. 19 and Tues.

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

Asian salmon with veggies and noodles

Asian Barbecue Sesame Salmon with Noodles and Veggies Recipe courtesy of Emily Weeks of “Zen and Spice” Total time: 40 minutes Servings: 4 Sauce ingredients: ½ cup soy sauce 2 tablespoons brown sugar 1 tablespoon rice vinegar 2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil 2 tablespoons barbecue sauce 1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce (optional) 2 tablespoons water 2 teaspoons cornstarch Other ingredients: 1 ½ pounds salmon (4 filets) 12 ounces stir-fry (Pad Thai) rice noodles 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil 1 pound white mushrooms, sliced 1 cup sugar snap peas 1 large broccoli head, cut into bitesize florets 2-3 green onions, thinly sliced, for garnish sesame seeds, for garnish Preheat oven to 400° F. In small saucepan, whisk soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, barbecue sauce and chili garlic sauce, if desired. Bring to boil over high heat then reduce heat to simmer.

In small bowl, whisk water and cornstarch. Pour into saucepan and cook on low, whisking often, until sauce thickens, 35 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Pour 3 tablespoons sauce into small bowl. Brush salmon filets with reserved sauce and place on baking sheet. Bake 15 minutes, or until salmon is flaky.

COURTESY OF ZEN AND SPICE

By Family Features If eating wholesome meals is a daily goal, keep in mind you can serve up tasty foods that also feed your immune system by including ingredients like mushrooms.

With their earthy flavor, mushrooms — like many other fruits and vegetables — can play a positive role in supporting a healthy immune system.

Studies at Oregon State University concluded there are a variety of micronutrients important for supporting a healthy immune system. Consider that three of these nutrients (vitamin D, selenium and B vitamins) can be found in mushrooms, meaning the following family-friendly recipe can help you add all-important nutrients to your family’s menu.

Find more ways to add mushrooms to meals at mushroomcouncil.com.

While salmon cooks, prepare stir-fry noodles according to package directions.

Drain, rinse and set aside.

Heat large skillet over medium heat.

Add sesame oil. Add mushrooms, snap peas and broccoli.

Cook, stirring often, until vegetables are tender-crisp, 7-8 minutes. Add noodles and remaining sauce from pan; toss to combine.

To serve, divide noodles, vegetables and salmon between plates. Top with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Fitness & Health

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 2 1

9

Herbs, vitamins that can help with anxiety It’s summer, and many people I know longed anxiety. Finding the root cause (or are still battling some type of anxiety, the root person) that causes your anxiety whether it’s from travel is key to getting well. stress, flying, the idea of the By the way, few things work Delta variant or something better to curb difficult emostressful going on with family. tions than exercise. Go for a Whatever it is, there are run or take a trip to the gym. some natural ways to conquer Physical activity is known to anxiety and boost mood. raise dopamine immediately.

First off, do not feel alone: For some simple anxietyMillions of people are anxious producing situations, you can about something. also look into the following nuI’ll tell you one of my issues: trients. But remember: If your DEAR driving on big highways with condition is serious, you must PHARMACIST other cars. I assume, when drivsee a qualified specialist.

By Suzy Cohen ers fly past me, that they are texVitamin B1: Thiamine or ting. In fact, I assume pretty B1 helps you produce and remuch everyone is distracted except for me, lease serotonin and norepinephrine, which and so I usually use GPS to find the slower reduce mental fatigue and improve physiroads. I have been this way for years, and cal energy. If you like to drink wine, you there’s no amount of lavender that helps me! are sure to be deficient in this nutrient.

But for other occasional anxiety, there is Vitamin B2: Riboflavin or B2 helps help in the form of a few natural remedies. your adrenal glands, which secrete DHEA Common symptoms of anxiety include and cortisol — hormones that must resweaty palms, rapid heartbeat, a feeling of main in proper homeostasis for you to impending doom, trembling or shaking, cope with feelings of anxiety. dry mouth, gastrointestinal problems, and Probiotics: These friendly gut bugs inability to think of anything else other help you activate thyroid hormone, which than the perceived danger at hand. Some has been proven in some studies to work people also experience insomnia. even better than traditional antidepressants Hypertension, gastric ulcers and de- in some people. We know that a reduction pression are also associated with pro- in probiotics can indirectly cause profound

anxiety and depression.

Zinc: This mineral has a very calming effect on the body. Perhaps it helps with the COMT gene variation some people have that causes them to experience feelings, including pain, with greater intensity. (However, beware: One can overdose on zinc, which is dangerous.)

Herbs: There are many herbs that can help you, either via teas or supplements. Among the best are chamomile, lavender, lemon balm, ashwagandha, catnip and valerian.

Conventional medical wisdom has programmed us to believe that sedatives and addictive medications are the answer to anxiety, but that’s not necessary for everyone.

If you’d like to read the more comprehensive version of this article, please sign up for my free newsletter at suzycohen.com.

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.

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

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Health Studies

11

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Fitness & Health

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 2 1

INFORMATION ON AREA CLINICAL TRIALS

Diabetic study includes all meals free

By Margaret Foster You may have heard of the DASH diet (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension). Created in 1997 by Dr. Lawrence Appel of Johns Hopkins, the diet includes grains, fruits, vegetables and low-fat dairy foods.

Appel, the lead investigator on a study published that year, found that the DASH diet lowered blood pressure, which when high can lead to stroke and heart attack.

Now Appel’s team is studying whether the DASH diet can help people with diabetes, too, since they’re also at risk for stroke and heart disease.

“The DASH diet has been proven very effective in lowering blood pressure, but it hasn’t been tested for people with diabetes,” said Scott Pilla, assistant professor of medicine at Johns Hopkins and one of the co-investigators of the DASH 4D study.

“Figuring out what diet is best to prevent [a stroke or heart attack] is really important.”

The best part about participating in the study is that volunteers with diabetes will get free, healthy food for five months as well as monetary compensation up to $1,625.

How the study works Once enrolled, participants will be provided all their meals for 21 weeks. For three days a week, all meals will be served at the Johns Hopkins study center called ProHealth in Woodlawn, Maryland (free parking is provided). All participants will be put into one of four random groups, each receiving a different meal plan. One of the plans will be the DASH diet.

People aren’t required to eat any unusual or fancy foods, Pilla said — just healthy, nutrient-rich meals. The DASH diet, which includes beans, nuts and fish, is similar to the Mediterranean diet.

“The general American diet is not very healthy. How can people do better? If you’re going to change your diet and you

have diabetes, what’s the most effective way to do that to prevent problems?”

Learning about good nutrition can prolong people’s lives. In past studies, Pilla said, “people learn a lot, and they get a lot out of it.”

Although the Dash 4D study is in person, Hopkins says it’s committed to safe

practices during the pandemic. Kitchen and research staff wear masks and follow CDC guidelines, and social distancing will be in effect in the ProHealth center’s dining room.

To find out more or to volunteer for the Dash 4D study, visit dash4D.com, email dash4d@jhmi.edu or call (410) 281-1600.

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Subscribe online! See how on p. 16

A Publication of the Department of Community Resources and Services

Volume 11, No. 9 • September 2021

Celebrate Senior Center Month at 50+ Centers

A Message from Howard County Executive

S

T

eptember is National Senior Center Month, a time to celebrate all that centers offer older adults in our community! While Howard County continues to exercise caution to protect older adults from COVID-19 and its related variants by requiring masks indoors, our six 50+ Centers are open, offering in-person programs to meet a variety of needs and interests. With resilience and a dedication to service, the Office on Aging and Independence’s 50+ Centers’ team has pulled out all the stops to make visiting centers a safe and enriching experience for all. It’s time to celebrate those efforts!

During an unprecedented time, creativity and innovation have brought to fruition a variety of virtual program opportunities. In fact, Howard County’s Virtual 50+ Programs was selected by engAGED: The National Resource Center for Engaging Older Adults as a best and promising social engagement practice.

"50+ Centers provide a vital link for social engagement, keeping older adults connected, healthy and active," said Barbara Scher, 50+ Centers Division manager. "Whether in-person or virtual, centers offer an exciting array of programs for learning and growth, fitness, well-being and creative expression."

While the 50+ Centers reestablish a full schedule of in-person fitness classes, they will continue to offer the popular virtual group exercise pass. Planning is also underway to create hybrid-streaming models with in-person and virtual access to programs to engage and inspire older adults in a multitude of ways. Stay tuned for more details.

Some Opportunities Scheduled During September The Bain 50+ Center recently completed its long-awaited renovation and debuted its new fitness equipment room. Stop by to celebrate Senior Center Month on Tuesday, September 21, with a concert by the United States Army Field Band. The Red Hatters Group returns to Bain that day as well. If you are at risk for falls, don’t miss the presentations for Fall Prevention Awareness Day on Wednesday, September 22.

Funding for a new, expanded East Columbia 50+ Center has been approved as part of the FY'22 capital budget, which is certainly a cause for celebration! Stop by the center for Demo Day on Wednesday, September 8, and take part in free introductory classes, including Tai Chi, Soul Line Dance, Artist Trading Cards and an Alcohol Ink Painting demo. Join Sound Healer Josh Howell on Wednesday, September 15, from 2 to 3 p.m. as he sculpts sound using his powerful gong, singing bowls and other instruments. Plus, the Language Café returns on September 28, from 6 to 9 p.m., with conversational tables available in 17 languages.

Calvin Ball his September we are celebrating National Senior Center Month to recognize all the incredible staff, programs and services our 50+ Centers provide to the community. As we work to become a more “Age-Friendly” community, we know how vital our 50+ Centers are to improving the well-being and quality of life of our residents. These community hubs address the needs and interests of older adults in a variety of ways, offering support in nutrition, health and wellness, technology, volunteer opportunities, financial education, creative arts, and so much more.

Throughout the pandemic, our 50+ Center teams have adapted and shifted programming to online or virtual options to fit the needs of our older adults. Whether you decide to venture into one of our 50+ Centers, or continue to connect online, our team will be there to provide knowledge, programming and resources.

Additionally, September is National Emergency Preparedness Month. This year’s theme: “Prepare to Protect. Preparing for disasters is protecting everyone you love.” After dealing with the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, we know how important preparation is to protect our loved ones. Just this year we’ve fully vaccinated more than 93% of residents over age 65. Beyond our current public health challenges, we still must prepare for weather emergencies that typically occur in the fall and winter.

There are many resources available for you and your family to make a plan, build an emergency kit and be prepared for natural emergencies. For more information, visit www.ReadyHoCo.org.

While we face some uncertainty about COVID-19 heading into fall and winter, we can take comfort in the shared responsibility of our community to get vaccinated and look out for our loved ones.

Wishing you a safe and healthy month ahead!

Elkridge 50+ Center celebrates Senior Center Month with programs to boost physical and mental health, including Aging Gracefully on Tuesday, September 14, at 11 a.m. with Melanie Berdyck, a nutritionist with Giant Food, and a Grab and Go lunch on Friday, September 17, at 11:30 a.m. Explore mental health at the Elder Safe presentation on Monday, September 20, at 1 p.m. and join Revive Physical Therapy on Tuesday, September 21, to learn about Fall Prevention strategies and get a free balance assessment from 1 to 2 p.m.

The Ellicott City 50+ Center welcomes skilled and novice needleworkers to participate in its Yarnstallation Project on Wednesdays, September 1, 8 and 15. Knit and crochet small patchwork projects to be assembled into a vivid art project for everyone to enjoy. Reunite with friends and reacquaint yourself with fun center activities at a Bunco Party on Friday, September 17; a Welcome Back Social on Tuesday, September 21, at 12:30 p.m; and a Table Tennis Tournament on September 22. Stop by the front desk for details or to sign up!

continued on next page

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 2 1

The 50+ Connection

Howard County

Walktober 2021 Walk, Roll, Ride, MOVE! Walktober is a celebration of Maryland's official exercise and a call to action to promote walking for physical activity and improved health for residents of all ages and abilities.

Join the Howard County Local Health Improvement Coalition and local partners for a month of walk and move events called Walktober 2021, a celebration of movement for all! The event runs from Friday, October 1, through Sunday, October 31. For details, go to www.howardcountymd.gov/health/walktober-2021.

Say you saw it in the Beacon

13

Celebrate Senior Center Month at 50+ Centers continued from front page article Get creative on Wednesdays at 1 p.m. in September at the Glenwood 50+ Center. Start with DIY Concrete Leaf Garden Art on September 1, as you craft a unique piece of garden art, bird bath or feeder using concrete and leaves. Materials provided; cost is $8. Make a beautiful Sun Catcher for your window on September 8 using fused glass you cut and design, then leave to be fired; cost is $30. In Pumpkin Pumpkin on September 15, create a perfect pumpkin that won’t ever spoil, made from concrete and tights; cost is $6 ($3 if you bring your own tights). Round out the month with DIY Harvest Signs on September 22, using wooden sign boards to create a two-sided project; cost is $20.

After a delayed reopening, North Laurel 50+ Center welcomes its members back with a festive meal and music in the outdoor pavilion on Wednesday, September 22, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Come mingle with old friends and center staff to see what you’ve been missing!

For more information about upcoming events at 50+ Centers in September and beyond, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/50pluscenters.

All programs are subject to change; call 410-313-5400 (voice/relay) to verify the status of a specific program.

Falls Prevention Week is September 20-24 Join us on Friday, September 24 9:00 TO 11:30 AM Elkridge 50+ Center 6540 Washington Boulevard, Elkridge 21075 A one-time 2.5 hour session for those who are interested in improving their nutrition and strength; designed to help people understand the connection between nutrition and preventing falls.

• Defining Malnutrition • The Connection Between Nutrition and Falls • Muscle Loss With Age • Protein In Food and Label Reading for Protein • Important Role of Fluids in Our Diet • How to Plan a Strength-Building Diet • Learning Your Personal Nutrition Risk Level and Score $5/person includes workshop and educational materials TO REGISTER, OR FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

MALARIE BURGESS mburgess@howardcountymd.gov • 410-313-6073 (VOICE/RELAY)

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

This publication is available in alternate formats upon request.

To join our subscriber list, email kahenry@howardcountymd.gov 9830 Patuxent Woods Drive, Columbia, MD 21046 410-313-6410 (VOICE/RELAY) • www.howardcountymd.gov/aging Find us on

www.Facebook.com/HoCoCommunity

Kim Higdon Henry, Editor • Email: kahenry@howardcountymd.gov Advertising contained in the Beacon is not endorsed by the Office on Aging and Independence or by the publisher.

September 29 THROUGH November 3 1:00 to 2:30 pm SIX CONSECUTIVE WEDNESDAYS

If you are a caregiver, we encourage you to register for this dynamic self-care program.

WE ARE HERE TO HELP YOU!

There is NO CHARGE to attend these self-care classes!

— FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO REGISTER —

Kathy Wehr CAREGIVER SUPPORT PROGRAM MANAGER

410-313-5955 (VOICE/RELAY) • kwehr@howardcountymd.gov

2021

Mark Your Calendar!

October 1 thru November 30

The Beacon’s Virtual 50+EXPO returns this Fall, with full access to programming available online from October 1 through November 30. Registration is open for potential sponsors and exhibitors.

Visit http://bit.ly/beacon50expo to sign up and receive more information about the upcoming virtual 50+ EXPO! The Office on Aging and Independence has partnered with the Beacon's Virtual 50+ EXPO. Don't miss out on cooking demos, educational presentations, entertainment, a keynote speaker, exhibitors and more!

14

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Money Law &

Long-distance caregiving is challenging and costly. Learn how to do it better on page 16.

Who gets the keys to your digital estate?

By Liz Weston You may not own cryptocurrency or run an online business. But if you do almost anything online, you probably have digital assets — electronic records that you own, control or license.

Failing to make arrangements for those assets while you’re alive could result in unnecessary costs, stress and heartache to those you leave behind.

Online photo and video collections could be lost forever. Heirs could also be locked out of electronic records with monetary value, such as cryptocurrency and frequent flyer miles. Email and social media accounts could be hacked.

Even basic tasks, such as paying bills online or canceling online subscriptions, may be difficult or impossible if you haven’t made arrangements.

“There would be no way for someone to know how I pay bills unless they could access my online account and my emails,” said Abby Schneiderman, co-founder of Everplans, a site for creating end-of-life plans and storing documents.

“And if it takes you a while to access these accounts, you’re going to realize afterwards, ‘Well, we’ve lost thousands of dollars on services we don’t use or don’t need anymore, because we can’t access them.’”

Here’s what you should consider and do

to make this job easier for your descendants:

Provide logins to your executor In the past, your executor — the person entrusted with settling your estate after your death — probably could have figured out what you owned and owed by rummaging through the papers in your filing cabinet and the bills in your mail, said Sharon Hartung, the author of two books for financial advisors, Your Digital Undertaker and Digital Executor. That’s no longer the case.

“Because our digital assets tend to be virtual in nature, an executor is not going to find them in a search of our home office,” Hartung said. “We’re going to have to leave some additional instructions on what we’ve created and how the executor is supposed to get access.”

Google and Facebook are among the few online providers that allow you to appoint someone to manage your accounts if you become incapacitated or die. Apple recently announced plans to add a similar feature.

The vast majority of online providers don’t have this option, however. Complicating matters further, almost all providers prohibit sharing passwords.

Typically, executors can’t demand access to your digital assets unless you specifically give them authority to do so in your will or living trust. Even then, a

provider’s terms of service may limit what the executor can do and hinder them from carrying out your wishes.

So, giving your executor your login credentials may be the easiest way to make sure they can carry out your wishes, estate planning experts say.

LastPass or 1Password.

These tools typically have a “notes” field that would allow you to include details about how you’d like the account to be handled.

You would need to provide your executor with the master password, which could be included in the letter of instruction.

Share an inventory and passwords

Update and safeguard your list

The first step in creating a plan for your digital assets is to make a list of them.

Searching online for a “digital assets inventory” will turn up some worksheets, including a detailed one created by the trade organization Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners, or STEP. It allows you to list your accounts, usernames and, if desired, your passwords.

Don’t forget to include access to your devices. If you have two-factor authentication set up on accounts to verify your identity — and typically you should — your executor will need the passcode to unlock your phone or other device that receives the authentication code.

You may also want to leave a letter of instruction telling your executor about your wishes for various assets — what to delete, what to archive and what to transfer to heirs, for example.

Another option is to keep your login credentials in a password manager such as

You don’t want to include sensitive information such as passwords in your will, since that document becomes public after you die. Instead, store the inventory and letter of instruction with your other estate planning documents in a secure location, such as with your attorney or in a home safe, and let your executor know where to find it.

You also could upload the information to an online storage site, such as Everplans or LifeSite, which allows you to give a trusted person access to the documents.

Consider reviewing the inventory at least once a year and make any needed updates. You’ll rest easier knowing your loved ones won’t be locked out of your digital life.

“Creating a roadmap is really important so that there are no surprises, no tears, that there’s as little stress as possible,” Schneiderman said.

—AP/NerdWallet

The financial effects of losing a spouse

By Rocky Mengle The death of a spouse is one of the most difficult things imaginable. Besides the emotional toll, though, surviving spouses typically confront financial issues, which often trigger tax-related questions and consequences. Some of them are fairly straightfor ward, while others can be tricky.

That’s why Letha McDowell, president of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, advises surviving spouses not to make major financial changes immediately. Instead, she tells them to reassess their finances from a tax perspective.

The loss of income after a spouse dies certainly has tax implications. For instance, if a drop in income means the surviving spouse needs to tap into a retirement account, McDowell points out that

“the taxes may be less than initially anticipated because, if you have lower income, you may be in a lower bracket.”

Less income could also mean that the surviving spouse now qualifies for certain tax deductions or credits that have income caps or phase-out rules. Local jurisdictions often have income-based property tax breaks that may suddenly be available, too.

Eventually, every surviving spouse has a new filing status. A joint federal tax return is allowed for the year the deceased spouse dies if the surviving spouse didn’t remarry. The qualifying widow(er) status may be an option for two more years if there’s a dependent child.

After that, a surviving spouse who doesn’t remarry must file as a single taxpayer, which usually means less favorable tax rates and a lower standard deduction.

IRA rules are complex Inheriting a traditional IRA can also affect the surviving spouse’s taxes, but first, there’s a decision to make.

An inheriting spouse can be designated as the account owner, roll the funds into their own retirement account, or be treated as a beneficiary. That decision will affect required minimum distributions and ultimately the surviving spouse’s taxable income.

As either the designated owner of the original account or the owner of the account with rolled-over funds, the surviving spouse can take RMDs based on their own life expectancy.

If they choose the third option — staying as the IRA’s beneficiary — RMDs are based on the life expectancy of the deceased spouse.

“Almost everyone either rolls [an inher-

ited IRA] into their own IRA or at least they transfer it into an account in their name,” McDowell noted. “Consolidating makes things much easier to manage.”

The third option may make sense if the surviving spouse is at least 72 years old, but the deceased spouse wasn’t. In that case, RMDs from the inherited IRA are delayed until the deceased spouse would have turned 72.

Basis of inherited property A surviving spouse also receives a stepped-up basis in other inherited property. “If the assets are held jointly between spouses, then there’s a step up in one half of the basis,” McDowell said. “But if an asset was owned solely by the decedent, See FINANCIAL EFFECTS, page 17

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Maximize spouse assets if on Medicaid

By David Rodeck The bill for long-term care adds up fast.

The annual median cost for a private room in a nursing home was $105,850 in 2020, according to Genworth. The government will up these costs if you qualify for Medicaid, but that’s easier said than done.

“Medicaid is a welfare program,” said Neel Shah, estate-planning attorney and a certified financial planner at Shah & Associates in Monroe Township, N.J. “There are strict income and wealth limits to qualify.”

(Medicaid should not be confused with Medicare, the national health insurance program for people age 65 and over that largely doesn’t cover long-term care.)

If you can pay for your own care, you’ll have more options, as not all facilities accept Medicaid. Still, even individuals with ample savings risk impoverishing their spouses to pay for a long stay in a nursing home.

If that’s what you fear, you may be surprised to learn that you can preserve some assets for a spouse and qualify for Medicaid using tools designed for that purpose.

How to qualify, but protect spouse Although qualifications vary by state, to qualify for Medicaid, your income generally must be less than $2,382 per month.

However, you can allocate as much as $3,259.50 of your monthly income to a spouse, whose income isn’t considered, and still meet the Medicaid limit.

Your assets must be $2,000 or less, with a spouse allowed to keep up to $130,380. Cash, bank accounts, real estate other than a primary residence, and investments, including those in an IRA or 401(k), all count as assets.

But you don’t have to count as assets your residence, non-luxury personal belongings like clothes and home appliances, one vehicle, engagement and wedding rings, and a prepaid burial plot.

Therefore, redistributing your assets can help you meet Medicaid’s standards. “Rather than keeping $100,000 in the bank, use that money to pay off your mortgage or pay for home renovations,” Shah suggested.

Alternatively, you could prepay a burial plot, replace a vehicle or upgrade household appliances. Your spouse will keep these purchases if you need long-term care, and with fewer assets to spend down, you’ll qualify for Medicaid sooner.

What your spouse is left with, however, is unlikely to be enough to live off of. You could boost a spouse’s income with a Medicaid-compliant annuity.

These contracts turn your savings into a stream of future retirement income for you and a spouse and don’t count as an asset.

You can buy the annuity at any time, but to be Medicaid compliant, the annuity payments must start immediately, with the state named as the beneficiary after you and your spouse pass away.

Descendants may have to pay These strategies protect assets or income for couples. Leaving something to other heirs is harder.

After you and your spouse pass away, state governments are required to recover Medicaid costs from your estate whenever possible — through a lien on your home, reimbursement from a Miller Trust, or seizure of assets during probate before they’re distributed to heirs.

A potential workaround comes with

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Consider irrevocable Miller Trust You could also set up a Miller Trust for yourself, according to Steve Parrish, co-director of the Center for Retirement Income at the American College of Financial Services in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania.

This irrevocable trust is used exclusively to satisfy Medicaid’s income threshold.

If your income from Social Security, pensions and other sources is above Medicaid’s limit but not enough to pay for nursing home care, the excess income can go into a Miller Trust. That lets you qualify for Medicaid while keeping some extra money in the trust for your own care.

The funds can be used by you to dine out, purchase new clothes, or pay for dental work, which Medicare doesn’t cover, Parrish said.

risk. Any assets given away within five years of a Medicaid application date still count toward eligibility, but property transferred to heirs earlier doesn’t.

“You could set up an irrevocable trust on behalf of your children, and transfer property that way,” Shah said. “It’s like putting the property away in a vault and giving them the key.” © 2021 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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Become a better long-distance caregiver pert and the author of Juggling Life, Work, and Caregiving.

More than 1 in 10 caregivers look after family or friends from a distance, which can be more difficult and expensive.

A 2016 AARP survey found that caregivers in general incur an average of about $7,000 a year in out-of-pocket expenses. Long-distance caregivers — those who live at least an hour away from the care recipient — incur about $12,000 on average, according to the survey. They’re more likely than local care-

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givers to hire help, take unpaid time off work and pay for travel, Goyer said.

Yet many distant caregivers worry they’re not doing enough.

“As caregivers, guilt is our constant companion,” Goyer said. “When you’re a long-distance caregiver, it’s even more so.”

AARP has numerous resources for caregivers, including a “Prepare to Care” planning guide and a financial workbook for estimating and tracking costs. Goyer, who cared for her grandparents, parents and a sister from afar, suggests the following ways to make long-distance caregiving more effective and manageable.

If you have the means, consider hiring a geriatric care manager, also known as an aging life care professional, to help you evaluate your loved one’s caregiving needs, hire home health aides if necessary and step in if there’s a crisis.

These professionals, who are often nurses or social workers, typically charge $75 to $200 an hour. An initial assessment may cost a few hundred dollars, but then the manager can be tapped as needed.

“If my parents had to go to the hospital or some emergency happened, there had to be somebody right away who could deal with it,” Goyer said.

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If you can’t physically check in on your loved one regularly, enlist others who can, Goyer suggested. Those could include family members or friends who live closer, or even a friendly neighbor to whom you can give your contact information.

“You may say, ‘Hey, if you notice grass isn’t getting mowed, things around the house look like they’re not being kept up, will you let me know?’” Goyer said.

If you have siblings, they can pitch in even if they’re long-distance too. They can make daily check-in calls or handle tasks such as paying bills, making medical appointments and dealing with insurance companies.

Video calling isn’t the only technology that can make life easier.

Medical alert systems can allow a loved one to summon aid, and some have fall-detection technology that works even if the person isn’t wearing a special device. Smart pill dispensers manage medications, and some can let caregivers know if doses aren’t taken.

Smart home systems can also help. A smart door lock, for example, can allow you to grant access from afar to someone such as a friend, a health aide or paramedic. A smart thermostat can help you

By Liz Weston Long pandemic lockdowns forced many older adults to become comfortable with video calls to stay connected with family.

That in turn meant that long-distance caregivers had a better way to see how their loved ones were faring.

“You can’t tell on the phone that they’re wearing the same clothes every day, or they’re not bathing because they’re afraid they’ll fall in the shower,” said Amy Goyer, AARP’s national family and caregiving ex-

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Financial effects From page 14 then that would be a step up of 100%.”

In community property states, the total fair market value of property, including the portion belonging to the surviving spouse, becomes the basis for the entire property if at least half its value is included in the deceased spouse’s gross estate.

Caregiver From page 16 ensure a comfortable temperature, while a smart home security system can let you know if your loved one has left the house.

Goyer used security cameras to keep an eye on her dad “whether I was going outside to take out the trash or 2,000 miles away.”

Look for available benefits Your loved one may be eligible for public benefits that could help with caregiving tasks or costs. Start your search at Benefits.gov. Resources for older Americans can also be found through the Eldercare Locator at eldercare.acl.gov.

Goyer’s father suffered from dementia for many years, but only during the last year of his life did she learn that he qualified for healthcare benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs.

“I wish I’d gotten him into VA healthcare earlier, because they ended up covering incontinence supplies and medications and a lot of things that I had been paying for,” Goyer said.

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Sept. 4

FESTIVAL OF INDIA

The Festival of India takes place Sat., Sept. 4 from 12 to 8 p.m. at the Howard County Fairgrounds. Enjoy a shopping extravaganza, food and fun activities for the whole family. For more information, visit bit.ly/HCFestivalofIndia.

Aug. 26

There’s also a special rule that helps surviving spouses who want to sell their home.

In general, up to $250,000 of gain from the sale of a principal residence is tax-free if certain conditions are met. The exemption jumps to $500,000 for married couples filing a joint return, but a surviving spouse who hasn’t remarried can still claim the $500,000 exemption if the home is sold

The person you’re caring for may have other resources that can be tapped, such as long-term care insurance, savings or home equity.

Talking about money can be difficult, but not doing so can be disastrous, Goyer said. She eventually filed for bankruptcy protection because of the credit card debt.

If she had it to do again, Goyer said she would consult with a financial advisor to better plan for the costs ahead.

—AP/NerdWallet

within two years of the deceased spouse’s death.

As for estate taxes, there’s an unlimited marital deduction as well as this year’s $11.7 million estate tax exemption (the amount is adjusted annually for inflation).

If the deceased spouse’s estate is nowhere near that amount, the surviving spouse should still file Form 706 to elect “portability” of the deceased spouse’s unused exemption

amount. This protects the surviving spouse if the exemption is lowered, as President Joe Biden and others have proposed doing.

If that happens, “it’s going to be important for a surviving spouse to have elected portability,” McDowell warned. “And if you don’t file, you don’t get it.” © 2021 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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Leisure &

Check out this parade float museum and other quirky attractions. See story on page 20.

In search of the Underground Railroad

Invisible depots and tracks Neither subterranean nor a train, the Underground Railroad was a loosely connected network that stretched over half of the United States, connecting sympathizers who helped self-emancipating people escape slavery.

Runaways headed to free northern states and Canada as well as Spanish Florida, California, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central

America. They were aided by people who cooperated across racial, ethnic, socioeconomic, gender and religious lines.

Freedom-seekers often traveled at night — in disguise, on foot, in wagons, by boat, however they could. During the day they slept in barns, cellars, sheds, churches or other “stations.” They used railroad-related code words such as stations and depots (safe hiding places), conductors (guides) and tracks (routes with sympathizers).

Maryland was a pivotal border state before the Civil War. Its many waterways and overland routes were used by many enslaved people, who often headed to Philadelphia as their first destination. That city was the headquarters of William Still’s Pennsylvania Anti-Slavery Society, which aided 1,500 people in their journey to freedom.

PHOTO BY MARYLAND OFFICE OF TOURISM

By Glenda C. Booth Maryland’s most famous heroine, Harriet Tubman, was born enslaved in Dorchester County around 1822. She was rented out at age six by her owner, but at age 27 escaped to Pennsylvania.

After her escape, Tubman became a highly effective “conductor” on the Underground Railroad, making 13 trips back to her home area to guide 70 people to freedom.

“I never ran my train off the track, and I never lost a passenger,” Tubman once said.

Dorchester County, Maryland, about 80 miles east of Washington, D.C., is a mosaic of 600 square miles of vast, flat farmlands, dense woods, creeks, rivers and marshes.

Its mazelike landscape looks much as it did in the 1800s, when many enslaved people bolted from their Dorchester County plantation owners to freedom.

The Underground Railroad was secretive in nature, and few structures remain.

But many historic sites related to Tubman survive today.

Harriet Tubman Byway’s 45 sites If you want to tour local Underground Railroad sites, follow the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Byway — a selfguided driving tour along 125 miles in Maryland and 98 miles in Delaware — which highlights 45 marked sites.

Travelers can download an audio guide from the website (harriettubmanbyway.org) or download a free smartphone app to navigate the trip. In fact, smartphone users can now point their phone’s cameras at certain sites to see historic images superimposed on the current landscape.

For an introduction to the byway and PHOTO COURTESY OF HARRIET TUBMAN BYWAY

The Bucktown Village Store looks much as it did in the 1830s, when 13-year-old Harriet Tubman was maliciously injured there. An overseer pursuing an enslaved man struck Tubman with an iron weight, fracturing her skull and causing lifelong headaches.

Harriet Tubman offers a helping hand in a mural by artist Michael Rosata, painted on the side of the Tubman Museum & Educational Center in Cambridge, Maryland. The museum is one of 45 sites on the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Byway, a self-guided driving tour through Maryland and Delaware.

touring materials, start at the Dorchester County Visitor Center in Cambridge, Maryland. The Harriet Tubman Museum and Educational Center opened in Cambridge four years ago.

Not far away, slave auctions took place outside the Italianate Dorchester County Courthouse, built in 1854, and its 1852 predecessor, destroyed by fire. Inside this courthouse, a free Black man, Samuel Green, was given a 10-year prison sentence for owning the anti-slavery novel, Uncle Tom’s Cabin.

A memorial garden in Cambridge honors Tubman with murals painted by her descendant Charles Ross.

At the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Visitor Center in Church Creek, 10 minutes away, a film and exhibits detail Tubman’s life. Visitors learn that her early love of the outdoors and life of hard work, including driving mules, timbering and farming, later gave her insight and survival skills to escape, aid others, and become a Civil War Union nurse, spy and suffragist.

The adjacent Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge is a wild expanse of the natural elements that Tubman and others navigated. In the refuge, they foraged for food in the wetlands, dense woods and muskrat lodges.

Historic buildings help tell the story One of the byway’s most popular stops, the Bucktown Village Store, stands mostly unchanged today. (The store, now a small museum and gift shop, is currently closed due to the pandemic.)

Here Tubman witnessed an enslaved field hand break free of his master. When the “owner” demanded that Tubman help with the capture, she refused, and he struck Tubman in the head, cracking her skull and leaving her with seizures and headaches for the rest of her life.

The tour route takes visitors north to several sites from the 1800s, including the Jacob and Hannah Leverton House in Preston, a Quaker abolitionist haven.

At Preston’s Linchester Mill, a waterpowered grist mill with a post office, general store and several safe houses, people could get the latest news. The town’s Mount Pleasant Cemetery was likely a meeting place for fugitives.

In Denton, the William Still Family Interpretive Center honors the Still family’s struggle for freedom. Still documented more than 1,000 escapes, compiling in 1871 one of the most authentic existing records of the Underground Railroad.

See RAILROAD, page 21

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Some unique attractions close to home

Parade floats in Virginia Although Shenandoah Caverns in Virginia (near Luray Caverns) is well known, its adjacent warehouse, the American Celebration on Parade, gets less attention. But visitors to the red-carpeted warehouse will be impressed by the enormous floats that had a few hours of glory before being laid to rest.

In addition to the elaborate parade floats, including from Presidential Inaugurals and Rose Bowl parades, the facility displays models ranging from a miniature U.S. Capitol building and Iwo Jima Memorial to a 20-foot pelican playing a banjo and

a 30-foot genie (shenandoahcaverns.com).

Open through Labor Day.

Baltimore’s eclectic treasures In Curtis Creek in Baltimore, a unique collection of ruined ships rises from the water’s surface. As their useful lives ended, they were unceremoniously dumped along the shoreline.

Among the residents of the ship graveyard are several wooden World War I freighters, a sidewheel steamer and several houseboats.

The most notable ship, a three-masted schooner known as the William T. Parker, was abandoned in the 19th century off the coast of North Carolina and drifted all the way to Maine. To see the vessels, rent a boat or kayak, park at the nearby Jaws Marina, or glimpse them from the I-695 bridge nearby (gofishbaltimore.com).

While you’re in Baltimore, stop at a unique diner near the Baltimore Museum of Art. Along with breakfast classics and Southern staples, the Papermoon Diner serves up a colorful collection of quirky decorations that it touts as “living art” (others may call it pop-culture kitsch).

Mannequins lean against walls and lounge on the lawn. Plastic toys, carousel horses and a collection of Pez paraphernalia help to transform a place to eat into a feast for the

FLICKR/FORSAKEN FOTOS

By Victor Block While the Statue of Liberty stands as America’s most famous symbol, our country’s character can also be found in its quirky roadside monuments: the world’s largest ball of twine, a corn palace, giant dinosaur statues, and buildings that resemble shoes, bugs or coffee pots.

For your next day trip, consider a few overlooked destinations in our region: giant floats that have appeared in inaugural parades and the Rose Bowl, for instance, or ships that sailed in Maryland’s waterways centuries ago.

We have some wonderful, welcoming — and, in some cases, downright weird — places to visit without driving far from home.

Located just off 695, the Curtis Creek Ship Graveyard contains World War I-era ships, houseboats and other scuttled vessels. It is best viewed by kayak.

eyes as well (papermoondiner24.com).

After eating, floss. That’s one of many messages imparted at the National Museum of Dentistry, appropriately located near the Baltimore College of Dental Surgery.

Among some 40,000 objects that trace the history of the profession are historic dental chairs, instruments that were used

on Queen Victoria, and George Washington’s lower dentures — which, despite legend to the contrary, were fashioned primarily from ivory, not wood (dental.umaryland.edu/museum).

Frightening teeth are among the exhibits See OFFBEAT, page 21

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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 2 1

Offbeat From page 20 at Protean Books & Records, located in a Baltimore warehouse. A real book store, it’s also where Dr. Gloom’s Crypt of Curiosities displays a collection of morbid artifacts, like ghastly recreations of cryptids, mummified remains and a representation of Barnum’s sharp-toothed Fifi mermaid.

That fraudulent creature has the torso and head of a monkey attached to the back half of a fish, and in years past was a common feature of circus sideshows, where it was presented as a real animal.

West Virginia’s Mothman Another unbelievable creature, the Mothman, is celebrated in the heart of West Virginia. At the Mothman Museum in Point Pleasant, visitors can learn about the birdlike humanoid that residents claimed to have seen in the mid-1960s.

They reported sightings of a large, gray-winged creature with glowing red eyes. The Mothman Museum displays police reports of eyewitness accounts, newspaper articles about the sightings, and a statue of the alleged creature itself (mothmanmuseum.com).

Offbeat buildings and museums Einstein’s brain, Ulysses S. Grant’s fatal tumor, and other medical samples are part of the massive collection of the National Museum of Health and Medicine in Silver Spring, Maryland.

Established in 1862 by U.S. Surgeon General William Hammond, who asked physicians to send him “specimens of morbid anatomy…together with projectiles and foreign bodies removed,” the museum displays grim anatomical accidents as well as historic artifacts such as a 1660 microscope. Relocated 10 times, the museum has been located in the Army’s Forest Glen

Annex since 2011 (medicalmuseum.mil).

Other buildings that in themselves are oddities are worth a visit.

The Markel Building in Richmond has the dubious distinction of having been included on a list of “The World’s 10 Ugliest Buildings.” That’s no surprise to those who have seen the circular edifice, whose top three floors are sheathed in a single piece of crinkled aluminum. The building’s designer conceived the idea at an American Institute of Architects dinner, where he was served a baked potato (architeturerichmond.com).

While smaller, the O Mansion in downtown Washington, D.C. has more to offer

21

in terms of chic charm. The 1892 building houses a boutique hotel, museum, gourmet dining room and event venue under a single roof.

Its eccentric interior styling includes rooms individually decorated with antiques and fine art, and dozens of hidden secret doors. It even has a room that served as temporary home for civil rights activist Rosa Parks.

The museum displays a diverse collection of art, sculpture and memorabilia (omansion.com).

Before you visit any of these sites, call ahead to check for hours or pandemic restrictions.

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Railroad From page 19

Douglass’s home, Cedar Hill, in Washington, D.C., where he lived from 1878 until his death in 1895.

Another conductor: Frederick Douglass

To help your search

Frederick Douglass also led people on the Underground Railroad near Rochester, New York. Douglass was born into slavery around 1818 in Talbot County on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. He became a bank president, statesman, lecturer and author.

To learn more about Douglass, visit the Talbot County Courthouse in Easton, where Douglass was jailed in 1836 after he attempted to escape from his plantation.

In addition, visitors can see the Banneker-Douglass Museum in Annapolis, and

The Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Byway has a list of all 45 sites on the self-guided tour: harriettubmanbyway.org.

Some sites may be closed during the pandemic, so call ahead.

Make a reservation for the Harriet Tubman Visitor Center in Church Creek, open Thursday through Sunday, at bit.ly/Tubmanreservations.

The National Park Service’s National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom lists more than 650 locations in 40 states. Visit bit.ly/exploreugrr.

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Aug. 27+

NITE FISHING

As summer turns to fall, it’s the perfect time to fish Centennial Lake at night. Night Bite Fishing takes place the second and fourth Fridays in August, September and October. Bring your own pole, bait, tackle, bug repellant, flashlight or lantern, chair or boat. There is a $5 fee per person collected at check-in at 7 p.m. For more information and to register, visit bit.ly/NiteBiteFishing. To confirm this event is running as scheduled call (410) 313-4451 on the day of the event and select option 4.

W d d SSaturdays t d Wednesdays, and Sundays

St Michael’s Maryland Crab Claw Restaurant

Atlantic City

Sept. 26 & Oct. 17

Saturdays, Sundays and Holidays

Tropicana Hotel Atlantic City 2-nights/3-days All Inclusive!

Ocean City, MD Every Saturday Ocean City Sunfest Oct. 2

Oct. 4 – Oct. 6

Call us for Reservations

“The Total Experience”

410-602-1704

Harriet Tubman Tour – Nov. 9 Radio City Christmas Show Orchestra Seats – Dec. 8 & 15

Email: info@superiortours.net • Website: www.superiortours.com

22

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

Subscribe online! See how on p. 16

PHOTO BY HOWARD COUNTY GOVT.

Style Arts &

County Executive Calvin Ball is committed to solar power. Our cover story continues on page 24.

Ellicott City band releases new album

A multi-genre sound The Catonsville native began playing in “garage bands” during his teenage years in the 1970s before earning his first gig at the age of 17. He auditioned for a semi-professional band based in Baltimore County

and joined the group as a bass guitarist.

Today, Walton is the bassist in his own band, The Richard Walton Group. The ensemble formed back in 1990, playing music many people describe as the jazz variety. However, Walton has his own take on the Richard Walton Group’s sound.

“We’re calling it ‘multi-genre’ because it incorporates jazz, rock, funk and Latin — all those combined,” he said.

“I’ve been in arguments with jazz purists that have put me against the wall, saying, ‘You’re not a jazz artist.’ And I’ve just said, ‘Yeah, I agree with you!’

While he was not on the road playing in front of crowds during the pandemic, Walton was working hard on his new album.

He said this new set of songs is an extended play (EP) originally started in the late 2000s.

EP recordings generally contain fewer songs than an album. In Walton’s case, it includes 10 bonus tracks that were finished during the pandemic.

“I was in the studio, and I found all these songs that were unfinished,” he said. His wife and fellow musicians encouraged him to finish producing the record. “So that’s

Now O n Stage

PHOTO COURTESY OF RICHARD WALTON GROUP

By Nick Clarkson The pandemic has been a struggle for millions since it began in March 2020. And that goes for Ellicott City musician Richard Walton as well.

A singer, songwriter and performer, Walton wasn’t able to play in his normal venues, like Little Market Café in Ellicott City or Main Stage Grill in Woodstock. He couldn’t tour around Maryland or sell records in person.

But he has been writing songs. In June, Walton released his 13th record, entitled “Your Love,” via his trio group “Straight On Red,” which includes his wife, Tecla.

Now in his 50s, Walton’s music career has spanned multiple decades, albums and shows. He was inducted to the Maryland Entertainment Hall of Fame in 2016, the same year his band was nominated for Best Jazz Artist by the Maryland Music Awards.

Richard Walton has been the front man for his multi-genre band for three decades.

After a pandemic pause, the Richard Walton Group has resumed outdoor concerts at venues throughout Maryland and Delaware.

what I did.”

In August, the band returned to the stage, performing songs from the new record as well as its most recent vinyl, “Twelve,” which is Walton’s solo project featuring Tecla and members of a band called Crack The Sky (guitarist Rick Witkowski and Tecla were main producers on that album).

Now back in action, the group has 18 gigs scheduled in the month of August.

‘We leave our egos at the door’ The Richard Walton Group has had many members since its inception three decades ago, and Walton keeps in touch with almost all of them.

“Everybody in this band is really humble. Not only are they great musicians, but we kind of leave our egos at the door,” he said.

See MUSICIAN, page 25

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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 2 1

Say you saw it in the Beacon

RETURNING THIS FALL

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

In-person Expos

NEW LOCATION

Springfield, Va. Sunday, Oct. 17, 2021

Bethesda, Md. Sunday, Oct. 24, 2021

Springfield Town Center

Westfield Montgomery Mall

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

Online Expo

October 1 thru November 30 at beacon50expo.com Online find dozens of free classes, speakers and entertainers available 24/7, as well as helpful resources and exhibitors.

2021 PRESENTED BY

Watch this space for more details. Or email info@beacon50expo.com to receive updates.

ATTN: Businesses and nonprofits: To sponsor or exhibit at either or both in-person Expos and/or at our virtual Expo, call (410) 248-9101 or speak with your Beacon advertising representative.

SILVER SPONSORS

BRONZE SPONSORS

23

Arts & Style | Subscribe online! See how on p. 16

Solar

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

How to go solar in the shade

From page 1 install its own solar panels on your roof.

Since the company owns the panels, there’s little or no cost to the homeowner. Although they won’t save quite as much money on their power bills, residents can feel good about reducing their carbon footprint.

But not everyone owns a house, and not all homeowners have sunny, south-facing, sloped roofs. In those cases, Miller recommends looking into something called a community solar program.

Residents pay a nominal fee to “subscribe,” and the company uses those investments to build or use a commercial solar facility in the region, allowing resi-

ANSWERS TO CROSSWORD

FROM PAGE 26 ANSWERS TO SCRABBLE

C O D A

A B E D

G O P O S R E T B R A S A L

B O F F O

U N I O N S

N E B U L A

Y E A R O M A I R S T S A E K E E R E R D A G

O N T O

M A M M A E M M I E A E R M A L D I M S A A N

A H A S A L E N T S G O T G O A E N T P L A L C R E Z O O E N T A D D C O P T E N S I G E S G S T

N U T E T A L T O R E P T A P I A N L A N S I A S E S B R A T L I T Y E L A B C O N A L O K R A H A N D

ANSWERS TO JUMBLE

dents to lower their energy costs by at least 5% per month.

The model works well for Miller herself.

“I participate in community solar program for my own electrical needs because I have a shady roof,” Miller said.

Miller found a program through a nonprofit called Solar United Neighbors. She visited its website, solarunitedneighbors.org, typed in her ZIP code, and browsed the active solar projects in need of subscribers.

Subscribers receive a credit on their electricity bills; the credit depends on the amount of energy used and the individual’s investment in the program.

“With community solar, you can purchase or lease a ‘share’ or subscription in a community solar project; or start a project with your neighbors. Every month, you receive a credit on your electricity bill for the energy produced by your share,” according to the Solar United Neighbors website.

As Kimberly Armstrong, program director for Solar United Neighbors, puts it, the community solar subscription model “makes it more equitable for everyone to participate in clean energy, no matter where they live.”

Wind power

Jumbles: STASH SOUPY MEDLEY IMPALA Answer: They said “hello” as their boats passed each other on the — “HI” SEAS

Another option for people who want to use renewable energy is to switch their electric service provider to one that uses wind energy or another type of renewable energy.

“It’s easy to switch,” Miller said. “Residents

just need to contact the supplier they want to work with.” (Compare offers from residential suppliers at mdelectricchoice.com/shop.)

But don’t overlook the cheapest way to save on energy costs: use less of it.

“Residents can do simple things like unplugging appliances not in use and turning off lights when leaving rooms,” Miller said.

Replacing regular lightbulbs with LED lightbulbs helps save money and energy, too.

Miller also suggests that homeowners request a free energy checkup from Empower Maryland, which can suggest ways to save energy. Visit their website at energy.maryland.gov and click on EmPower on the left.

Efforts to be climate friendly Howard County is not only educating residents on using renewable energy; they are using it themselves.

When Howard County’s executive Calvin Ball took office in 2019, Miller said, “one of the first things he did was pledge to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 45% by 2030, with the goal of reaching zero by 2050.”

The county government has a goal to use solar for 20% of its energy usage by 2024, Miller said, “and we are well on our way to surpassing that.”

To do so, the county established an agreement with a New Jersey-based solar power company, CI Renewables, which See SOLAR, page 25

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24

Musician From page 22 While it sometimes took some extra effort to get everyone on the same page when it came to the music, Walton said, he is grateful to have collaborated with talented musicians and friends for so many years.

“I write a wide variety of music. But I kind of give my band members more of an opportunity [to develop the music],” he said. “It’s almost like coloring a picture with other painters. I like other people’s

25

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Arts & Style

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

take on things.”

Walton said his music has been influenced by Holand-Dozier-Holland, Joni Mitchell, Smokey Robinson and Stevie Wonder.

But there’s also a group Walton credits with boosting his songwriting ability: the monthly songwriting circle that he joined in 2005 and has led for more than 10 years.

Attendees have included songwriters from around Maryland, who bring their works to meetings to be critiqued and improved.

“That group has helped me tremen-

dously. Some of the songwriter friends I have are just phenomenal,” Walton said.

“Leading that group took my songwriting up a notch.”

Due to the pandemic, in-person meetings have been on hold. However, he hopes that it will pick back up when COVID-19 is in the rearview mirror.

This summer, Walton is involved with multiple projects, with four more albums currently in the works or more than halfway done. He mentioned that there is a

Richard Walton Group EP being mastered now — that is, having the final touches being put on by the band’s sound engineer — that he hopes to release soon.

In the meantime, Walton is just enjoying the ride and going wherever the music takes him — from the Delaware shore to private events throughout Maryland.

“For live music, wherever I can get work, I go. I have no fear of travel, and love meeting new people and bringing a positive vibe.”

Tell them you saw it in the Beacon!

Solar From page 24 maintains solar panels and arrays on county-owned as well as private land.

They generate 44,000,000 kilowatthours a year, covering more than half of the county’s energy usage. In fact, Miller believes that number may be closer to 75%.

Howard County solar projects include the following: —Solar panels in parking lots.

Howard County has added canopies with solar panels to several of its parking lots, including at the East Columbia Library, the East Columbia 50+ Center and the Gateway Building. These canopies not only generate solar power but provide shelter and shade.

—Rooftop solar panels. The county has

installed rooftop panels on many buildings, including the Miller Branch Library, the Howard Building and the District Court. The county is pushing for new buildings to be designed to allow for more rooftop panels.

Through these projects, the county is modeling the effective and cost-efficient use of solar power and inspiring residents to do what they can.

For Silver-Isenstadt, his investments have paid off financially and emotionally, by helping him live consistently with his values.

“We want to support the solar industry,” Silver-Isenstadt said. “We want to be role models for the neighborhood and live in a way we can explain to the next generation.

If not us, then who?”

Find out more about ways to use renewable energy at Howard County’s website, livegreenhoward.com.

A T E

~ ~ A L

S

F O O

F G

L’Shanah Tovah!

Wishing you a Happy and Healthy New Year!

-from the Levinson Family & Staff

S 1892

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

26

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

Crossword Puzzle

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

2

3

By Stephen Sherr

4

5

13 18

20

21 24

10

22 27

35

36

44

51 55

62

69

16

40

41

42

59

60

61

45

49

50

52

53

56

63

66

12

29

39

48

54

28 33

38

47

11

23

32

43

Jumble answers on p. 24.

9

15

26

31

37

Scrabble answers on p. 24.

8

19

25

34

46

7

14

17

30

6

57

58

64

65

67

68

70

71

Across

Down

1. Cautious with information 5. Largest city in Nebraska 10. Crackpot 13. Common woodwind instrument 14. Like a bad singer's American Idol audition 15. Latin list shortener 17. Where Kim Cattrall came to life in Mannequin 20. Fuss 21. Dutch uncle (or a comment from a cow walking backwards) 22. "Cat ___ your tongue?"

23. Org. that runs a school's Fall Festival 24. Snugger than Lar. or Med. 26. Fifth word of the Sgt. Pepper's album 28. Beelike 30. Nest eggs 34. Items in Bare Necessities' inventory 35. A thousand thous 36. He said "I am the astronaut of boxing; Joe Louis and Dempsey were just jet pilots" 37. Hypersaline body of water 39. Results of poor luggage packing 43. Just the vowels in "BRACELET" 44. It has lions and tigers and bears 45. One who will not inherit from Willy Wonka 46. Extreme defense mechanism 51. Singleton 52. Put two and two together 53. Animation frame 54. White lie 55. Maturity 57. Make a choice 59. Brady Bunch network 62. Including time and space 66. Eye ___ (TV show originally called Eyewitness Los Angeles) 67. Wise guys 68. Ingredient in Campbell's Chicken Gumbo Soup 69. Droop 70. Lack of serenity 71. Game piece for Rock Paper Scissors

1. Post-credit scene 2. Waiting for the next snooze alarm 3. Lose one's temper 4. Positive vote 5. "Hold ___ your hat" 6. Number two song on ABBA Number Ones 7. End of an enzyme 8. "I'll be there in a sec" 9. Cher, vocally 10. Cast a wide ___ 11. Perfect world 12. Kilt design 16. Tilts southward (as Pisa's tower) 18. Excited crowd sound 19. Combine all the receipts together 25. Whoopsie 27. Shaving cream alternative 29. Easy to manipulate 30. Goal line TD scorers 31. Historic time 32. Arab ruler 33. 78-card deck 38. Boil over with rage 39. Accepts bad behavior 40. Island nation called "the teardrop of India" 41. Word between dogs 42. Pigpen 44. Letter to Queen Elizabeth 46. Successful, theatrically 47. Marriages 48. Giant cloud in space 49. Lunatic 50. When Romeo met Juliet 56. The Simpson's middle child 58. "hey... buddy..."

60. "The hay is in the ___" 61. Dressed 63. Scandal sheet 64. Ingredient in brioche bread pudding 65. Sound repeated 188 times in Don't Worry, Be Happy

Answers on page 24.

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 2 1

CLASSIFIEDS The Beacon prints classified advertising under the following headings: Business & Employment Opportunities; Caregivers; Computer Services; Entertainment; For Sale; For Sale/Rent: Real Estate; Free; Health; Home/ Handyman Services; Miscellaneous; Personals; Personal Services; Vacation Opportunities; and Wanted. For submission guidelines and deadlines, see the box on the right.

CAVEAT EMPTOR! The Beacon does not knowingly accept obscene, offensive, harmful, or fraudulent advertising. However, we do not investigate any advertisers or their products and cannot accept responsibility for the integrity of either.

Respondents to classified advertising should always use caution and their best judgment.

EMPLOYMENT & REAL ESTATE ADS: We will not knowingly or intentionally accept advertising in violation of federal, state, and local laws prohibiting discrimination based on race, color, national origin, sex, familial status or handicap in connection with employment or the sale or rental of real estate.

Business & Employment Opportunities MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES. One step at the time for better health. Kema health services. Currently accepting new patients. Medication management. Telehealth mental health services. Call to schedule an appointment: 301246-0423. www.kemahealthservices.com

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HOW TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED AD All classified ads must be submitted and paid for online, via our website, www.thebeaconnewspapers.com/classifieds Deadlines and Payments: To appear in the next issue, your ad text and payment must be entered by the 5th of the preceding month (for Baltimore and Howard County editions); by the 20th (for Washington and Richmond editions).

Cost will be based on the number of characters and spaces in your ad: • $25 for 1250 • $35 for 251-500. • $50 for 501-750 (maximum length). The website will calculate this for you.

Note: Maryland contractors must provide a valid MHIC number. • Each real estate listing qualifies as one ad. • All ads are subject to publisher's discretion. Payment will be refunded if unacceptable for any reason.

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Home/Handyman Services WE CAN FIX ANYTHING! 3 generations of builders, cabinet makers, remodelers and crafters completing kitchens, baths and additions got us to this point. If it’s broken, disassembled, ugly, out of date, needs replacement or renewal: please call Bob at R. W. Wood Improvements: 410.294.2800. MHIC 92322. It it’s electronics or computes, we suggest you contact your grandchildren.

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Clinical Studies

Sleep Study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

Events 2021 Beacon Virtual 50+Expo . . . . . . . . . . . .23

Funeral Services Cremation Society of Maryland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 Going Home Cremation & Funeral Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 Harry H. Witzke’s Family Funeral Home, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 MacNabb Funeral Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 Sol Levinson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25

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27

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Retail

Alta At Regency Crest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Brooke Grove . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18, 28 Charlestown/Erickson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Enterprise Residential . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 Park View Apartments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 Residences at Vantage Point . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Shriner Court . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

Columbia’s Village Centers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Perfect Sleep Chair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Perfect Walker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 Zinger Chair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25

Legal Services Mid-Atlantic ADA Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

Medical/Health Age Well Senior Fitness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Dr. Jeannine George-Richardson, DPM . . . . .11 Laurel Wellness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1 Medical Eye Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Senior/Government Services BeaconSilverPages.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 COGS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 Howard Co. 50+ Connection . . . . . . . . . . .12-13 Maryland Relay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Subscriptions Beacon Newspapers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16

Theater/Entertainment Columbia Pro Cantare . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 Toby’s Dinner Theatre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22

Travel

Superior Tours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21

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INDEPENDENT LIVING

SIMPLY

DIFFERENT

Set on our 220-acre campus of lush pastures and hardwood forests, Brooke Grove’s cottages offer plenty of space to live the life you love. With maintenance-free living, there’s more time for outings, family and hobbies.

• Floor plans from 1,350 to 4,000 square feet • Basement space for crafting, exercising, entertaining and more

• Extra bedrooms and dens • Cathedral ceilings, gas fireplaces, walk-in closets, over-sized garages, screened porches

because what surrounds you really matters.

Cottage availab le now!

18100 Slade School Road Sandy Spring, MD 20860 301-637-8928

www.bgf.org INDEPENDENT LIVING Assisted Living REHABILITATION LONG-TERM CARE MEMORY SUPPORT