October 2016 | DC Beacon by The Beacon Newspapers

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VOL.28, NO.10

Leisure World designer moves in

Breaking barriers Even though he was designing Leisure World, Navy noted that, as an African American, he likely would not have been welcome to live there when it first opened, had he been old enough. Navy has been facing and breaking color barriers his whole life. Growing up in Houston, Texas, he went to segregated schools. There, he often would trace words and photos in the newspaper to hone his drawing skills. “I developed quite an artistic hand and ended up being quite talented with drawing. When I went to high school, a teacher started a program of architectural and mechanical drafting,” Navy said. “I liked it, and he

OCTOBER 2016

I N S I D E …

PHOTO BY REY LOPEZ

By Barbara Ruben Back in the mid-1960s, upper Georgia Avenue was a two-lane road heading into farmland in Montgomery County, Md. But a 610acre plot of farmland abutting the road — carved out of the area between Aspen Hill and Olney — was about to become one of the largest retirement communities of its day in the U.S. Harold Navy, just a few years out of architecture school at Howard University, was one of a cadre of architects drafting what would become Leisure World’s first townhouses, clubhouse and other structures when it opened in September 1966. “It was a concept completely new to the area, a community of senior citizens. I thought there would be a bunch of old people coming here, and never once thought about how one day I’d be old enough to be here,” said Navy, 81, who moved into one of Leisure World’s high-rise condominiums two years ago with Arlillian, his wife of nearly 60 years. Trees that were saplings when the first of what are now 8,700 residents moved in now tower over some of the curving walking paths that Navy helped plan. “We added sidewalks and ramps, all kinds of designs to encourage walking. Benches and parks where residents could sit and talk to each other. Landscaping with trees where they would feel comfortable being outside,” recalled Navy from his ninth floor condo, which overlooks the golf course where he and his colleagues would play a round after work during Leisure World’s early days.

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SEE SPECIAL INSERT Housing & Homecare Options following page 30

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

Fifty years ago, architect Harold Navy helped design the original buildings of Leisure World. Now, he lives in the community of nearly 9,000 residents in Silver Spring, Md. As a principal in Washington’s first African American-owned architectural firm, he designed Metro stops, Howard University’s business school, and worked on projects built overseas from Afghanistan to Haiti.

liked me. He motivated me and mentored me all the way through. At that time I was thinking of dentistry. But he motivated me to go into architecture. Even today I’m very happy I did.” When he realized he would not be allowed to enter the architecture program at the segregated University of Texas, he won a scholarship that allowed him to attend Howard University in Washington, D.C. After finishing its five-year architecture program, he got ready to return to Houston in 1959. “But Houston was not ready for black architects. I don’t think any part of Texas was. I started trying to seek employment in Houston, but they wanted to pay me less than they paid the janitors,” Navy recalled. So he stayed in Washington and started work at a Silver Spring firm that, a few years

later, would land the account to design Leisure World. He and Arlillian, who worked in education and then at the upper levels of real estate companies, found a house in an enclave of mid-century modern homes with enormous windows designed by renowned architect Charles Goodman. The only problem was that, in the years just before the Fair Housing Act of 1968 passed, the Silver Spring community didn’t allow blacks. The Navys had to petition the neighbors to let them in. Navy remembers them being “very accepting” though, and that the neighborhood was filled with other architects and artists. But their housing problems didn’t end there. Housing discrimination extended to See ARCHITECT, page 20

There are plenty of places to find your heart in San Francisco; plus, an immersive training safari, caring for elephants in Cambodia, and how a new airline law page 42 helps consumers TECHNOLOGY k Find lower Rx prices online

FITNESS & HEALTH k Making hospital stays safer

LAW & MONEY 31 k Earn 6%-plus with preferred stock SPOTLIGHT ON AGING k Newsletter for D.C. seniors

ARTS & STYLE k Sister Act at Toby’s

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O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

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Head in the clouds It used to be, if you said someone “had We don’t do our taxes by hand and keep his head in the clouds,” you meant his loads of files. We use a software program mind was elsewhere; he wasthat makes it far simpler and n’t paying attention. keeps our data from one year Nowadays, when people to the next. speak of “the cloud,” they are Yes, we know our phones talking about computers, weband computers can be hacked. sites, software and digital storBut how likely is that, we ask age that are maintained elseourselves? And we can, if we where, but available for us to choose, utilize various means use through the Internet. This of protecting our data with amalgam of cloud services has passwords, firewalls, security become the place where many software and the like. of us store our personal infor- FROM THE But what if we are running mation, family photos, finan- PUBLISHER out of computer or smartcial and tax history, and more. By Stuart P. Rosenthal phone memory? We are freUnfortunately, some of us quently urged to move our dighave our heads in the clouds, too. ital files into the cloud. Uploading our photos Let me take a step back and explain to a website not only lets us delete them from what I mean. our personal devices. It offers additional benMany aspects of our lives have become efits: We can easily allow friends (or even “digital” today. We don’t take pictures strangers) to view our photos at will. using cameras with film. We capture imThe same is often true of our personal ages on our smartphones or digital cam- medical and financial information. As we eras and view them there, or on our com- get older, we might be asked to keep a list puters, when we like. of our medications and doctors, our living

PLEASE NOTE: The November issue of the Beacon will print on November 4, and be distributed the following week. This is somewhat later than our usual print schedule. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

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The Beacon is a monthly newspaper dedicated to inform, serve, and entertain the citizens of the Greater Washington DC area, and is privately owned. Other editions serve Greater Baltimore, Howard County, Md. and Greater Palm Springs, Calif. Readership exceeds 400,000. Subscriptions are available via first-class mail ($36) or third-class mail ($12), prepaid with order. D.C. and Maryland residents: add 6 percent for sales tax. Send subscription order to the office listed below. Publication of advertising contained herein does not necessarily constitute endorsement. Signed columns represent the opinions of the writers, and not necessarily the opinion of the publisher. • Publisher/Editor ....................Stuart P. Rosenthal • Associate Publisher ..............Judith K. Rosenthal • Vice President of Operations ....Gordon Hasenei • Director of Sales ................................Alan Spiegel • Managing Editor............................Barbara Ruben • Art Director ........................................Kyle Gregory • Assistant Operations Manager ..........Roger King • Advertising Representatives ........Doug Hallock, ......................Dan Kelly, Rena Pensky, M.K. Phillips • Editorial Assistant ......................Rebekah Alcalde

The Beacon, P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915 (301) 949-9766 • Email: info@thebeaconnewspapers.com Website: www.theBeaconNewspapers.com Submissions: The Beacon welcomes reader contributions. Deadline for editorial is the 10th of the month preceding the month of publication. Deadline for ads is the 15th of the month preceding the month of publication. See page 59 for classified advertising details. Please mail or email all submissions.

will and powers of attorney, on a website that can be shared with certain family members and medical professionals, so the people who care about us (and may one day need to care for us) can have ready access to the information they would need should we become incapacitated. As a result, we might become careless about maintaining our paper records or our own computer. Businesses (and governments as well) make use of online services and websites to maintain information about their customers, their employees, their stockholders, etc. In addition, they frequently use the cloud in carrying out essential functions: our nation’s electric grid and long-distance service rely heavily on satellites and the Internet, as do many aspects of our military communications. The individual and societal benefits are great. But the risks are also very serious. We have not yet developed a way to keep digital information — whether on our computers or in the cloud — truly safe from hackers or disgruntled employees who want to steal our data and disseminate, manipulate or sell it to others. The victims of these thefts are not just ordinary individuals who lack technical knowledge. They include Target, the U.S. Office of Personnel Management, the Democratic National Committee, and even the National Security Agency. And as for our satellites, China has demonstrated (using one of its own) that they can be destroyed by a missile. As individuals, we cannot really do anything about this pervasive shift on the part of business and government, other than to continually press our legislators and other leaders to secure these systems as much as possible, and develop backups that can function in an emergency. But as individuals, we don’t have to make ourselves needlessly vulnerable. We should not trust the cloud to be the only place where we access or store important information. As long as we maintain either a physical copy of our data, or a digital backup on a hard drive or flash drive, it may make sense to maintain a backup of important information in the cloud. After all, a house fire can destroy all our precious tax records and photo albums, too. But sometimes there is no way to hold onto a backup of the data we upload, or to retrieve the reports that software in the

cloud creates for us. I speak from experience. Some years ago, the Beacon’s first website, may it rest in peace, was part of a national senior organization that created and hosted it — together with those of many other senior publications — on their website. In exchange, we advertised the parent site in the Beacon. One day, the Beacon’s website suddenly disappeared. When I called, panicked, to find out what had happened, I was told that, unfortunately, there had been a “catastrophic failure” of our site. I noted that the rest of their website, on which we had been housed, seemed just fine, and then I asked about their backup. Oh, he said, “believe it or not” (and I didn’t), their backup failed at the same time, meaning we could no longer access any of the material we had painstakingly uploaded over a period of years onto their site. Of course what really had failed was their honesty and their will to continue providing the service. With not so much as a day’s notice, or any effort to back up our information or provide it to us in another form, they closed us down. It took months and tremendous effort to create a new website from scratch. This experience gave me a taste of what it would be like were the Internet to be “down” for a considerable period of time, or were a site in the cloud to be hacked and disabled. As a result, I am highly reluctant to rely on any software or storage that exists solely in the cloud. I am not a Luddite. I wouldn’t recommend avoiding or pulling out from all the beneficial software and cloud platforms that perform highly useful functions at a reasonable cost. But we need to understand the risks involved, and take whatever precautions we can to back up our important information. We also need to protect ourselves by using strong passwords, and think twice before uploading to the cloud any information that could cause us severe harm were it to fall into the hands of unscrupulous people. We can choose to store some information in the cloud. But we shouldn’t be walking around with our heads up there, too. If you have been a victim of hacking or identity theft, please write to us to share your story.

Letters to the editor Readers are encouraged to share their opinion on any matter addressed in the Beacon as well as on political and social issues of the day. Mail your Letter to the Editor to The Beacon, P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915, or e-mail to barbara@thebeaconnewspapers.com. Please include your name, address and telephone number for verification. Dear Editor: Thank you for publishing my letter to the editor about Joe Kenda’s denial of police responsibility for extrajudicial killings (September). In your note at the end of my letter, you quoted Mr. Kenda as if his denial,

“There’s obviously guilt on both sides in those situations,” had effectively countered my concerns. This statement makes a false equivalence. See LETTERS TO EDITOR, page 57

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6

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Age-Friendly Montgomery A Community for a Lifetime

“I’m inviting you to enjoy our County’s resources and programs.” County Executive Ike Leggett

Crime Prevention Month – Learn what you can do!

Montgomery County Supports Fire Safety Measures

1. Schedule a free home security survey by calling your local district Montgomery County Police station.

Top 3 Things You Need to Know about Smoke Alarms

1st District Station (Rockville): 240-773-6070 2nd District Station (Bethesda): 240-773-6700 3rd District Station (Silver Spring): 240-773-6800 4th District Station (Wheaton): 240-773-5500 5th District Station (Germantown): 240-773-6200 6th District Station (Montgomery Village): 240-773-5700

1. ALL Smoke Alarms have expiration dates. Not just the batteries - the actual alarm. If your hard-wired or battery smoke alarms are 10 years or older, it’s time to replace them with new ones. Why? The sensors that detect smoke wear out. All electronic devices eventually wear out; take care of the ones that can save your life.

2. Schedule a “Keeping Seniors Safe” presentation for your group to learn about financial fraud, identity theft, shopping safety and emergency preparedness. Call Montgomery County Police at 240-773-5625.

2. Maryland has a new Smoke Alarm Law.

3. Call Adult Protective Services at 240-777-3000 about any potential situations of elder abuse (physical abuse, financial exploitation or neglect). In a physical abuse emergency, call 9-1-1.

3. We’ll even do it for you!

For more information about preventing crime,visit http://www. montgomerycountymd.gov/crime-tips

Smoke alarm technology has advanced and battery-only smoke alarms must be replaced with smoke alarms with sealed, 10-year batteries by 1/1/2018.

Smoke alarms are one of the most important safety features in your home. We urge all residents to schedule a free home safety visit by the fire department to ensure your smoke alarms are up-to-date. Visit www.mcfrs.org/mcsafe or call 3-1-1 for information.

• Aging & Disability Resource Line 240-777-3000

• 3-1-1 or 240-777-0311 for County programs and services; 9-1-1 for emergency • www.montgomerycountymd.gov/senior

• “Seniors Today” airs on Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6:00 p.m. on Comcast/RCN 6, Verizon 30 Seniors Today October guests: County Executive Ike Leggett and Council President Nancy Floreen.

More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Technology &

Innovations Websites help find the lowest drug prices By Matthew Perrone Most people don’t shop for lower prescription drug prices. But they should — especially now that there are easier ways to do so. More than a dozen websites and apps are vying to help U.S. consumers find the lowest prices for prescription drugs by comparing prices and searching for deals, similar to the way Expedia looks for cheap airfare or Bankrate.com looks for low mortgage rates. “Patients want to see a pharmacy that said ‘every-day low prices,’ but most pharmacies can’t achieve that because the way prices are configured is pure mayhem,” said Professor Darius Lakdawalla, a health economist at the University of Southern California. “That’s why consumers need to

know: ‘Where can I get my beta blocker for the best price?’” Recent studies show that more than one in five prescriptions in the U.S. go unfilled, in part due to financial hardship. Yet only 17 percent of U.S. consumers are willing to check multiple pharmacies for lower drug prices, according to a survey by Consumer Reports. Q: What do these services do? Websites and apps like GoodRx and WeRx are doing two basic things: searching local pharmacy prices, and then applying various discounts and coupons available to customers. The search results will show, for example, that a 30-day supply of a common cholesterol

drug is $11 at Wal-Mart and $13 at a Kroger pharmacy. In both cases, the price is linked to a coupon that the app downloads so the customer can give it to the pharmacist. The web services find the best deals available each day by keeping track of the complex, nearly-constant negotiations between pharmacies, drugmakers and pharmacy benefit managers that result in wide price disparities for commonly used medications. “We’re trying to give you a baseline of information so that you can make the right decision,” said Doug Hirsch, founder and CEO of GoodRx, the largest and oldest of the services. GoodRx, founded in 2011, offers 25 million users access to discounts from pharmacies,

drugmakers and pharmacy benefit managers. Newer services include BlinkHealth, which said it negotiates lower drug prices by pooling its users with customers of pharmacy benefit managers. Each of the companies claims to have the lowest prices available, so consumers may want to shop around. Q: Who stands to benefit most from these services? Patients who are taking several generic drugs and have no insurance or high copays. Most of the largest savings to be had are for generic drugs, where competition between multiple manufacturers and pharmacies leads to a wide range of prices. See DRUG WEBSITES, page 5

LIMITED TIME OFFER APY

Open a 12-month CD and get one of the highest rates in the area.

Minimum balance is required to obtain the Annual Percentage Yield (APY). A penalty may be imposed for early withdrawals. Fees may reduce earnings. Interest rates effective as of 09/19/2016, and are subject to change at any time without notification. The rate is applicable to new money only. Maximum original principal balance cannot exceed $99,999.99. 2 Certificate of Deposit account. 3 Based on Bankrate.com research. Rates listed for Washington DC Metropolitan area as of 09/19/2016.

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Washington, DC 1776 Eye Street NW Washington, DC 20006 202-861-2265

Virginia

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❏ Almost Home Senior Living (See ad on page B3) ❏ Arleigh Burke Pavilion (See ad on page B9) ❏ Ashby Ponds (See ads on pages B5 & B15) ❏ Birmingham Green (See ad on page 16) ❏ Chancellor’s Village (See ads on pagse B7 & B17) ❏ Crystal Square (See ad on page B3) ❏ Chesterbrook Residences (See ad on page B9 & B19) ❏ Culpepper Gardens (See ad on page B2) ❏ Fairfax, The (See ad on page B4) ❏ Gardens of Traville (See ad on page 12) ❏ Great Falls Assisted Living (See ads on pages B5 & B15) ❏ Greenspring (See ads on pages B5 & B7) ❏ Gum Springs Glen (See ad on page B12) ❏ Herndon Harbor House (See ad on page B12) ❏ Lockwood House (See ad on page B12) ❏ Morris Glen (See ad on page B12) ❏ Potomac Place (See ad on page B5) ❏ Shenanadoah (See ads on pages B2 & B15) ❏ Tribute at the Glen (See ads on pages B14 & B15) ❏ Vinson Hall (See ad on page B15) ❏ Waltonwood (See ad on page 29) ❏ Wingler House (See ad on page B12) ❏ The Woodlands (See ads on pages B8 & B10)

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Please mail this form to: The Beacon, P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915-2227 or fax to (301) 949-8966

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❏ Arden Courts (See ad on page 17) ❏ Aspenwood Senior Living (See ad on page 17) ❏ The Bonifant at Silver Spring (See ads on pages B7 & B18) ❏ Brookdale Olney/Potomac (See ad on page 25) ❏ Brooke Grove (See ads on pages 15, 19, B7, B14, B20) ❏ Buckingham’s Choice (See ad on page 39) ❏ Charter House (See ad on page 26) ❏ Churchill Senior Living (See ad on page 16) ❏ Covenant Village (See ads on pages B12 & B19) ❏ Emerson House (See ad on page B12) ❏ Fairhaven (See ad on page 39) ❏ Fox Hill (See ad on page 11) ❏ Hebrew Home (See ad on page 37) ❏ Homecrest House See ads on pages B10 & B12) ❏ Homewood at Frederick (See ad on page 10) ❏ Olney Assisted Living (See ad on page B10 & B13) ❏ Park View Bladensburg (See ad on page 44) ❏ Park View Columbia (See ad on page 44) ❏ Park View Emerson (See ad on page 44) ❏ Park View Laurel (See ad on page 44) ❏ Riderwood (See ads on pages B5 & B19) ❏ Springvale Terrace (See ad on page B6 & B19) ❏ Tall Oaks (See ad on page B10 & B18) ❏ Victory Terrace (See ads on pages B2 & B7) ❏ Village at Rockville (See ad on page 21)

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Maryland

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❏ Friendship Terrace (see ads on pages B6 & B10) ❏ Knollwood (See ad on page B10 & B17) ❏ Residences at Thomas Circle (See ad on page 20)

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Discounts on newer, branded drugs are harder to find, since they are typically produced by one company that doesn’t have to cut prices to compete. Still, services like GoodRx can link to drugmaker coupons that bring down the price of even high-end drugs like Humira, an injectable treatment for psoriasis. These coupons irk insurers because they entice patients to opt for the branded drug by making the out-of-pocket cost to the patient comparable to that of a generic — but they don’t reduce the higher cost the insurer has to pay for the medication. Still, it helps patients reduce the amount of money leaving their wallets. Some of the priciest drugs won’t appear on pharmacy apps at all. Specialty cancer drugs like Avastin, for example, must be administered at a doctor’s office and aren’t available at the pharmacy. Q: How do these discounts work with my health insurance? They don’t. The prices quoted by apps need to be paid by the consumer, and can’t be used to lower your co-pay. However, the services’ cash prices are often less than patients’ co-pays, especially for those in high-deductible health plans. For example, it may be cheaper to fill a $4 prescription for a generic drug at WalMart or Target than to use your insurance

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From page 4

and pay a $12 co-pay. In these cases, pharmacy apps simply direct customer traffic to long-standing offers at big-box stores. In other cases, the services provide a streamlined way of obtaining coupons and discounts that consumers would otherwise have to juggle on their own. Q: So where do these discounts come from? In some ways, pharmacy apps are just updating a decades-old business. Many of the offers found on GoodRx and similar services come from discount programs offered by prescription benefit managers like MedImpact and OptumRx. Those companies are best known for negotiating lower drug prices on behalf of large employers and insurers, but they also have separate businesses offering discount pharmacy cards to consumers who pay cash. The cards have been distributed through the mail, newspapers and magazines for more than 20 years. Pharmacies like the programs because they ensure a steady stream of cash-paying customers. And the card programs pocket a small percent of each transaction, a sort-of finder’s fee. This is also one of the ways that the new services make money. GoodRx pulls together discounts offered by six pharmacy benefit companies. Consumers who don’t want to use the website or the app can send away for a GoodRx pharmacy discount card. — AP

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Drug websites

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Technology & Innovations

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6

Technology & Innovations | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

Beacon Links & Apps By Barbara Ruben

Links Election connection Not sure who to vote for in the local school board election or the state General Assembly? Do you still need more information on where the presidential candidates stand on the issues? The non-partisan League of Women Voters compiles candidates’ responses to a variety of questions. You can build a sample ballot of candidates and issues that you can print out with your preferences and take to the polls to help you vote on Election Day.

O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

No matter where you live in the U.S., you can plug in your address to get information not just on candidates, but also on where to vote, how to get an absentee ballot, voter registration and more. www.vote411.org

ily and businesses to be on the lookout for a missing senior via text or email. Families can also choose to post an alert to the Home Instead Remember for Alzheimer’s Facebook page, connected to 270,000 followers. www.MissingSeniorNetwork.com

Finding missing dementia patients

3D redecorating

One of the worst scenarios for families caring for someone living with Alzheimer’s disease is a loved one wandering or getting lost. Nearly half of family members caring for someone with Alzheimer’s have experienced this, according to a new survey conducted by Home Instead, Inc. Of those, nearly one in five called the police for assistance. To help families keep their loved ones safe, the Home Instead Senior Care network has launched a free tool — the Missing Senior Network. The website enables family caregivers to alert a network of friends, fam-

If you’re downsizing and moving to a new home, or if you just want to rearrange the furniture in the place you already moved to, Sweet Home 3D can help you visualize furniture placement. First, draw walls with precise dimensions using the mouse or keyboard. You can add furniture to the plan from a searchable and extensive catalog organized by categories such as kitchen, living room, bedroom, etc. Change color, texture, size, thickness, location and orientation of furniture, walls, floors and ceilings. While designing the home in 2D, you can simultaneously view it in 3D from an

aerial point of view, or navigate into it as if you were a virtual visitor. http://www.sweethome3d.com

Apps Matchmaking for politics Answer a few simple questions on the Voter app and find out which politicians have your best interests at heart — and have a track record to back it up. Just swipe right to vote “yes” and left to vote “no” regarding policy questions such as: Abolish the death penalty? Keep abortion legal? Decrease military spending? Repeal Obamacare? Other questions ask about gun control, foreign policy and other issues. The app then recommends presidential and Congressional candidates whose views match your own. It also provides further information on, and contacts for, the recommended candidates. Free, available for iPhone and Android

Yoga in your pocket The app Yoga in Your Pocket helps you practice your downward dog and sun salutation poses anywhere. It includes illustrations, descriptions and benefits of 200 poses. Choose between different practices, different durations and different difficulty levels. Soothing music plays in the background. The app even gives directions on when to inhale and exhale. You can keep track of the poses you do, and unlock new screen backgrounds as you do more. $2.99, available for iPhone only

Wee word puzzles If you enjoy crossword puzzles, word finds and anagram games, you’ll like 7 Little Words. Each bite-size puzzle consists of seven clues, seven mystery words, and 20 letter groups. Find the mystery words by deciphering the clues and combining the letter groups. The simple and fun game has “no time limit or competitive pressure of any kind,” and is “enjoyable even for people who think they don’t like word games” its developers say. Free, for iPhone, iPad and Android.

BEACON BITS

Ongoing

D.C. TECH CLASSES

D.C. Public Libraries offer free hands-on computer classes. Most classes take place at Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library, 901 G St. NW, and are walk-in, with seating on a firstcome, first-served basis. For a complete list of classes and times, visit http://bit.ly/DCEventsCalendar or contact Desire Grogran at desire.grogan@dc.gov or (202) 727-1298.

Technology & Innovations

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6

Asbury Methodist Village 409 Russell Ave, Gaithersburg, MD 301-987-6291

WINDOWS® 10 ESSENTIALS

Prerequisite: Computer experience & Windows 10 PC Registration: $90 6 sessions Limit: 10 # 597 Mon Nov 7 – Dec 12 9:30am-11:30am This course teaches the essentials you need to be use your Windows 10 computer effectively. It covers the start menu, desktop, taskbar and settings app and covers how to use File Explorer to manage your files. It also highlights the Universal Windows Platform apps.

GET MORE FROM THE WEB

Prerequisite: Computer experience & Windows 10 PC Registration: $90 6 sessions Limit: 10 # 598 Tues Nov 8 – Dec 13 9:30am-11:30am

You use the World Wide Web every day for email, information, shopping or financial matters. This course shows you how to make your web browsing experience more productive and to get what you want to be more efficiently using the Microsoft Edge web browser. Staying secure while online is emphasized.

HOW THE WEB WORKS

Prerequisite: None Registration: $20 1 session # 599 Fri Nov 18

Limit: 10 9:30am-11:30am

You use the World Wide Web every day. Ever wonder what goes on “behind the scenes” to make it all happen? This class explains from start to finish how the web page appears on your monitor screen nearly instantaneously. Come and learn. It is pretty amazing.

ORGANIZE YOUR FILES WITH WINDOWS® 10

Prerequisite: Computer experience & Windows 10 PC Registration: $60 3 sessions Limit: 10 # 600 Fri Dec 2 – Dec 16 9:30am-11:30am

Do you need to bring some organization to your computer-based life? This course shows you the features of the new Windows 10 File Explorer application and how to use them to organize your collection of documents and photos. File Explorer has a new “look” plus serval built-in features to assist you in crating and viewing folders, as well as moving, copying and renaming files.

ASSISTED PRACTICE

Practice sessions are an integral part of your learning. You must be registered for at least one class to participate. Wed Nov 9 – Dec 14 9:30am-1:30pm

JCA Bronfman Center 12320 Parklawn Drive, Rockville, MD 240-395-0916

JCA IS PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE THAT THE TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION CENTER AT THE BRONFMAN CENTER HAS BEEN COMPLETELY

REDESIGNED AND WILL OPEN FOR NEW CLASSES IN

SEPTEMBER. AMONG THE MANY IMPROVEMENTS

ARE INCREASED CAPACITY AND THE ABILITY TO OFFER CLASSES ON MACINTOSH COMPUTERS.

YOUR IPAD® AND YOU

Prerequisite: iPad needs to be updated to the ios9.1 and have an Apple® ID and password Bring fully charged iPad to class Limit: 12 Registration: $70 4 sessions # 603 Wed Oct 19 – Nov 9 10:00am-12:00pm Learn the basics about what you can do with your iPad and how using a tablet is different from using a desktop or laptop computer. Topics include basic navigation, apps and where to get them, setting up your email account, managing your contact list, taking and sharing pictures, listening to music, keeping your iPad safe and running efficiently and backing up data. IPHONE®

APPS

Prerequisite: Bring fully charged iPhone to class Registration: $20 1 session Limit: 12 # 605 Tue Nov 29 1:00pm-3:00pm

Learn to use and organize apps. Explore apps to create reminders, read or listen to books, find directions, track health and fitness activities, share photos and more. Share your favorite app. IPHONE®,

PHOTOGRAPHY, AN INTRODUCTION

Prerequisite: Bring fully charged iPhone to class Registration: $20 1 session Limit: 12 # 606 Tue Dec 6 1:00pm-3:00pm

Learn how to use the iPhone to take great pictures, organize them and share your photos with friends and family.

SMARTPHONES AND TABLETS USING THE ANDROID OPERATING SYSTEM WORKSHOP

Prerequisite: Computer Basics or equivalent Registration: $ 20 1 session Limit: 12 # 607 Thurs Nov 17 10:00am-12:00pm

Learn what the Android operating system is and how to work with its direct manipulation interface. See demonstrations of popular applications (apps) that run on Android.

BROWSING AND SEARCHING THE WEB **NEW**NEW**

Prerequisite: Computer Basics or equivalent Registration: $ 20 1 session Limit: 12 # 608 Mon Nov 7 10:00am-12:00pm

Learn how to use Internet Explorer®, Google Chrome® and Google® search to use the World Wide Web. We will teach the basics but go beyond, including setting up favorites and bookmarks, creating a bookmark bar, opening multiple tabs and adding extensions to the browser. Learn many techniques to more precisely find the information you want.

DO MORE WITH EMAIL

Prerequisite: Computer Basics or equivalent Registration: $40 2 sessions Limit: 12 # 609 Thurs Nov 3- Nov 10 1:30pm-3:30pm

Learn to take full advantage of your web-based email service. This course covers all aspects of email, including attachments and contact management. You use your own mail provider for most lessons. You need your email User ID and password.

EXCEL: THE BASICS

Prerequisite: Computer Basics or equivalent Registration: $40 2 sessions Limit: 12 # 610 Mon Nov 14 – Nov 21 10:00am-12:0pm

Develop and learn how to create a basic spreadsheet and enter data, edit the cells, adjust columns and rows, “crossfooting” spreadsheets, using formulas in spreadsheets.

FACEBOOK IS EASY- SETTING UP AN ACCOUNT

Prerequisite: Bring a picture of yourself and a picture you’d like to share in digital form (jpg). Registration: $20 1 session Limit: 12 # 611 Thurs Dec 1 10:00am-12:00pm

Find out how to set up a Facebook account and keep it as private or public as you want. Share pictures, thoughts, or quotations with chosen friends.

FACEBOOK IS EASY - HOW TO USE YOUR ACCOUNT

Prerequisite: Must already have a Facebook account. Registration: $40 2 session Limit: 12 # 612 Thurs Dec 8 – Dec 15 10:00am-12:00pm

This class is for people who already have a Facebook account and want to learn more. We will learn how to find friends, post status updates, connect with people using chat and messages, what it means to “like” a page or a post, and how to post photos and make photo albums, post links to websites and articles, use apps and more.

INS AND OUTS OF DESKTOP PUBLISHING

Prerequisite: Computer Basics or equivalentRegistration: $40 2 session Limit: 12 # 613 Tues Nov 1- Nov 8 10:00am-12:00pm

Ever wonder how to make flyers, newsletters, business cards or holiday letters look professional? This class will teach you a quick and easy way using Microsoft Office 2016/365. Bring a USB device to class.

continued next page

Technology & Innovations

WINDOWS® 10: WHAT’S NEW Registration: $40 2 session # 615 Thurs Oct 20- Oct 27

JCA SENIORTECH

Limit: 12 10:00am-12:00 pm

Microsoft is offering free upgrades to existing Windows users to go to the new Windows 10 operating system. In this 2-hour lecture and demonstration, we will examine the new features that you will see in Windows 10 including the new start menu, desktop, the app store, tablet mode, using multiple desktops, looking at the upgrade process and new apps included in Windows 10.

MEET THE TECHNOLOGY GURUS! BRING US YOUR PROBLEMS!

Registration: $30 per individual session # 616 Date and time to be determined by Tech Guru

Have a one-to-one lesson with our Tech Gurus. Experts are available to help with hardware or software issues. Topics: Windows® 10, buying a new computer, securing your computer, backing up the cloud, laptop/desktop Issues, photos/videos, PowerPoint® and more. Your session will last 2 hours. After you register, you will be contacted to select a date and time for your session and to discuss the questions or issues you will be working on with one of our Tech Gurus.

 NEW  NEW  NEW 

JCA SeniorTech is proud to present our NEW class given on the MAC Operating System!

MEET THE MAC® TECHNOLOGY GURUS! **NEW**NEW** BRING US YOUR PROBLEMS!

Registration: $30 per individual session # 617 Date and time to be determined by Tech Guru

Have a one-to-one lesson with our Mac Tech Gurus. Experts are available to help with hardware or software issues. Topics: iPhone®, iPad®, Apple® Laptops/computers. . Your session will last 2 hours. After you register, you will be contacted to select a date and time for your session and to discuss the questions or issues you will be working on with one of our Tech Gurus.

INTRODUCTION TO THE MAC® OPERATING SYSTEM X Registration: $40 2 sessions # 619 Tues Nov 15 - Nov 22

Limit: 4 1:30pm-3:30pm

Class size is limited to 4. If class is full, students with Mac laptops are welcome The Apple Mac Operating System (OS), known as OS X provides the interface to the Mac hardware and applications. In this class, we will cover the essential components that users need to know to operate their computers in a safe and productive manner. The class will combine lecture and hands-on exercises. Topics include the desktop components including the dock and menu bar, system Preferences, finder, Safari browser, spotlight, Mission Control, ways to run Windows on your Mac, and backup with Time Machine.

SENIORTECH VOLUNTEERS WANTED TO TEACH OR COACH We are looking for volunteers who are computer savvy, willing to share their knowledge, and would like to help people age 50+ learn new computer skills.

Call 240-395-0916 for more information

TECH TALK!

PRESENTATIONS AND DISCUSSIONS ON HOT TOPICS IN TECHNOLOGY

WHAT SHOULD I BUY?

Registration: $20 # 620 Wed

1 session Dec 7

Limit: 25 10:00am-12:00pm

As our desktops, laptops, phones and tablets come to the end of their useful lives, consumers are unsure what purchase of new technology makes sense. Questions you might be asking are: Can my phone or tablet replace my computer? Should I buy one of the new hybrid laptops? Does switching to an Apple computer make sense for my needs? How has camera technology evolved? Should I upgrade to Windows 10? This two-hour discussion/class will consider the pros and cons of various hardware options and look at the application that runs on the various platforms.

INTRODUCTION TO THE CLOUD Registration: $20 # 621 Wed

1 session Nov 2

Limit: 12 1:30pm-3:30pm

There has been a lot of talk about “the cloud” recently. Learn what the cloud is and how to use it for storage, backup and sharing of files, pictures and music.

CUTTING THE OF CABLE

CABLE – TV WITHOUT THE PRICE

Registration: $20 # 622 Wed

1 session Nov 9

Limit: 12 1:30pm-3:30pm

With the availability of high-speed broadband Internet, it is possible to enjoy television without the high price of cable TV. Learn about programs that are available online and how to watch on a standard HDTV set.

ATTENTION:

Instruction, course materials and all computerlanguage settings are in

English.

Courses are taught with Windows computers.

DISCOUNT! STUDENTS RECEIVE A 10% DISCOUNT WHEN BILL IS PAID IN FULL 2 WEEKS PRIOR TO THE START OF CLASS. If you have questions, call 240-395-0916 or email seniortech@accessjca.org

REFUND POLICY:

Students who wish to withdraw and receive a full refund must notify JCA at least 48 hours before the first class begins. A 50% refund is given after the first class.

The Career Gateway!

O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

A recognized program for active and potential job seekers 50+. Five six-hour classes over two weeks: • Hone interviewing skills • Improve resume • Enhance social networking skills. Career.Gateway@ AccessJCA.org 301.255.4200 or 703.425.0999

As of August 23rd JCA SeniorTech will be relocating to a new site in northern Virginia. We are grateful for our time in Crystal City and would like to thank Vornado for its kindness and support, the many students who attended classes and our wonderful and dedicated volunteers! While we relocate our Virginia site, we encourage everyone to come to our newly-renovated Bronfman Center site in Rockville, which is within walking distance of the Twinbrook Metro station.

Watch this space for a new SeniorTech Location in Northern Virginia to be announced soon!

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6

SeniorTech

DESCRIPTION AND GUIDELINES Classes are designed to help adults, 50+, refresh or advance their computer skills and learn to use social media. Courses are taught by volunteer instructors and coaches.

Courses are almost always “hands on” in which students practice skills and techniques on a computer during class.

INCLEMENT WEATHER POLICY

✃

Technology & Innovations

JCA SENIORTECH

SENIORTECH REGISTRATION FORM

COMPUTER TRAINING

WAYS TO REGISTER: BY MAIL:

Include your payment with form to JCA SeniorTech 12320 Parklawn Drive Rockville, MD 20852-1726

BY PHONE: Call 240-395-0916 with your credit card information

NOTE: ALL REGISTRATIONS ARE DUE 7 DAYS PRIOR TO START OF CLASS. Name: _________________________________________________________________________________________ Address: _______________________________________________________________________________________ City: ____________________________________________________ State: _______ Zip Code: _______________ Phone#: ______________________________ Email: __________________________________________________ I have taken a JCA SeniorTech class before: ____ Yes ____ No

Student ID (Office use only)_______________

I WOULD LIKE TO REGISTER FOR: Class #

Class Title

Location

Start Date

Start Time

Registration

10% DISCOUNT WHEN BILL IS PAID IN FULL 2 WEEKS PRIOR TO THE START OF CLASS

TOTAL $ _________

PAYMENT METHOD:

WB10/16

❒ Master Card ❒ VISA ❒ American Express ❒ Check (Make Checks payable to JCA SeniorTech.)

Name as it appears on card: ____________________________________________________________

Card Number

____________ ____________ ____________ _____________

Each JCA SeniorTech center location follows the weather-related decisions of the public school system in its jurisdiction, except that if a school system is closed for even part of the day, the center will be closed the entire day. As soon as possible, your instructor will arrange to make up any classes cancelled due to inclement weather.

Exp. Date

______ /______

Sec. Code

__________

OFFICE USE ONLY Course #_____ Paid_____ Registration #_______ Date________

Course #_____ Paid_____ Registration #_______ Date________

NOTICE: WITHIN THE LIMITS OF ITS RESOURCES, JCA SERVES PEOPLE OF ALL FAITHS AND FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE. INDEED, WE TRY TO BE AS INCLUSIVE AS POSSIBLE IN ALL THAT WE DO. SOMETIMES, HOWEVER, JCA MAY DENY A PERSON OR GROUP THE OPTION TO ENROLL OR TO CONTINUE TO PARTICIPATE IN ALL OR PARTICULAR PROGRAMS AND SERVICES. WE RESERVE THE RIGHT TO DO SO, AT OUR SOLE DISCRETION, SHOULD WE BELIEVE THAT OUR ACTION IS IN THE BEST INTEREST OF THE INDIVIDUAL OR PROGRAM OR FOR ANY OTHER REASON NOT PRECLUDED BY APPLICABLE LAW. Each contribution or remittance of payment by check is considered authorization to convert that particular check into an electronic fund transfer. If your check is unable to be converted, it may be processed as a Check Replacement Document drawn against your account. When we use information from your check to make an electronic fund transfer, funds may be withdrawn from your account as soon as the same day you make your payment, and you will not receive your check back from your financial institution. You have the right to opt out of Electronic Conversion. If you choose to exercise this right, write the words ‘Opt Out’ in the memo field of your check and JCA will process it as a draft against your account.

More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Health Fitness &

DRINK TO YOUR BONE HEALTH? While a substance in tequila may keep bones strong, it’s too soon for a shot LESS STRESS How to practice mindfulness meditation for better attention and calm SNACK SMARTER Eating snacks between meals can be fine if you eat healthy ones EXTRA ENERGY Give yourself a boost with easy-to-make homemade energy bars

Avoiding delirium during a hospital stay By Beverly Merz My mother was lucid and alert when she was hospitalized for pneumonia. But by the middle of the first night, she was wondering how she had ended up at a “hotel” that allowed strangers to enter her room at all hours. The second night, she wandered into the corridor, slipped and fractured a

hip. She didn’t leave the hospital alive. Her story, though extreme, is sadly typical. According to several major studies, about half of people over 65 have episodes of delirium — a sudden change in mental status — during hospital stays. And those who do are at increased risk for falling, requiring nursing home care, and develop-

ing cognitive impairment and dementia. It’s easy to understand why hospitalization can be disorienting. Your daily routine is overturned, you are introduced to a stream of new caregivers, and it’s hard to sleep through the night. Anesthetics or sedative medications can also affect your mental state. But decades ago, Sharon Inouye, M.D., M.P.H., professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School, recognized that delirium in older patients isn’t an inevitable consequence of hospitalization. Inouye and colleagues developed a program called the Hospital Elder Life Program (HELP). Available at 200 hospitals in the United States, HELP involves identifying patients at risk for delirium when they enter the hospital, and assigning them to receive special care to minimize six major risk factors associated with delirium: cognitive impairment, sleep deprivation, immobility, visual impairment, hearing impairment, and dehydration. Studies have found that HELP is associated with significant reductions in the percentage of patients who develop delirium. It is also linked to fewer falls while in the hospital, shorter hospital stays, fewer nursing home admissions, and a lower rate

of cognitive and physical decline. At present, Inova Fairfax and Inova Mt. Vernon are the only local hospitals utilizing the program.

What you can do to avoid delirium If you or a loved one is scheduled for a hospital stay, ask whether your hospital has HELP or another program for preventing delirium. If not, there are several things you can do as a patient or caregiver. If you’re going into the hospital: 1. Gather your records. Prepare a “medical information sheet” listing all your allergies, the names and phone numbers of your physicians and your usual pharmacy, all your medical conditions, and all the medications — both prescription and nonprescription — you’re currently taking. Have your medical records forwarded to the doctors who will be caring for you. 2. Bring the essentials. You’ll need your glasses, hearing aids and fresh batteries, and dentures. Ask if you can bring a few familiar things like family photos, a good book, or an MP3 player with your faSee DELIRIUM, page 11

Quality health care support for all types of situations SKILLED REHABILITATION Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy are available as well as Skilled Nursing Care to assist residents in achieving maximum independence.

COMPREHENSIVE NURSING CARE Providing a structured environment with medical supervision for short- or long-term care needs.

MEMORY CARE Specially-trained staff focus on preserving dignity and quality of life as well as physical health and wellness. For more information, call the Health Care Center Admissions Coordinator at 301-644-5600.

7407 Willow Road • Frederick, MD • www.homewood.com

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Fitness & Health

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6

Now is the time to get your annual flu shot By Lauran Neergaard The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) urges a yearly vaccination for just about everyone starting at 6 months of age. Flu is most dangerous for people over age 65, young children, pregnant women, and people with certain health conditions, such as asthma or heart disease. But it sometimes kills even the healthy and young. The CDC says, on average, flu kills about 24,000 Americans each year, including about 100 children. If mom gets a flu shot during pregnancy, the vaccine also helps protect her baby during its first six months of life.

When to get the shot Vaccinations are getting under way as

Delirium From page 10 vorite music or relaxation exercises. 3. Set up a support team. Let family and friends know you’re being hospitalized and ask them to visit. If you’re a caregiver: 1. Arrange companionship. Schedule family and friends to visit in shifts — and to stay overnight, if possible. 2. Work with the nurses. See if they’d

shipments arrive at grocery stores, clinics and doctors’ offices. The CDC expects there to be enough vaccine this year to meet the typical U.S. demand — between 157 million and 168 million shot doses. Flu typically peaks in January or February but there’s no way to predict when it will begin spreading, and it takes about two weeks for full protection from a vaccine to kick in. Flu shots are made with killed flu virus, so you can’t get the flu from them. But they’re not perfect. The CDC says they reduce the risk of flu by 50 to 60 percent. Occasionally, a strain starts circulating that wasn’t included in the vaccine recipe. Sometimes people still catch the flu but generally have a milder case than if they’d

gone unvaccinated. Some show flu-like symptoms that are caused by a different virus. If you aren’t a fan of shots, two less ouchy gadgets are available. A version of Sanofi’s FluZone can be given “intradermally,” using tiny needles to penetrate the skin instead of muscle. And a version of Seqiris’ Afluria vaccine can be given in a needle-free device called a jet injector that forces the vaccine into a stream of fluid that penetrates the skin.

What’s new for seniors People 65 and older are especially vulnerable to flu’s dangerous complications because they tend to have more underlying health problems, and standard flu

shots don’t work as well with their waning immune systems. For them, one alternative to standard shots is Sanofi’s High-Dose Fluzone, containing four times the usual anti-flu ingredient. Seniors also have a second alternative — Seqiris’ Fluad with “adjuvant,” the first U.S. flu vaccine to contain an extra compound designed to rev up the immune system’s response to the shot. Insurance covers most flu vaccinations, often without a co-payment. They are free for Medicare patients who bring their card. For those paying out of pocket, prices can range between $32 and $40. — AP

like your help in encouraging the person to eat, stay hydrated, and to participate in rehabilitation therapy. 3. Be vigilant. If you notice signs of confusion, memory problems, or personality changes, let the nurses or physicians know immediately. Beverly Merz is the executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. © 2016. President and Fellows of Harvard College. All Rights Reserved. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

The truth about tequila and bone health By Dr. Robert H. Shmerling, “Tequila could reverse osteoporosis!” “Drinking tequila is good for your bones!” “Have a third margarita — because tequila’s great for your bones!” Talk about misleading headlines! These are prime examples. It’s true that a newly published study found that a substance in tequila — called agave tequilana, or tequila agave — might help maintain bone health. And that it could lead to new treatments for osteoporosis. But consider the details: • The study was performed on mice who had had their ovaries removed. This is by no means a perfect model for human

osteoporosis. • The mice were treated with a type of agave tequilana — not tequila — and for only eight weeks. • When compared with untreated mice, the treated mice were found to have larger thigh bones, and samples of their thigh bones contained more of a protein linked with bone growth (called osteocalcin). However, there was no long-term treatment with agave tequilana beyond the initial eight weeks, nor was there any assessment of whether this treatment would prevent osteoporosis. The researchers suggested that sugars in the agave tequilana interacted with bacteria in the intestinal tracts of the mice to

encourage absorption of minerals needed to build bones. So, a “healthy intestinal microbiome” may also be required for this approach to work.

What’s the catch? I think this new research is intriguing. It’s entirely possible that certain types of agave (a plant that produces a honey-like nectar) could turn out to help people maintain or improve bone health. And considering the health impacts of osteoporosis — hip fractures, loss of mobility, and complications that can lead to death in some cases — such an advance can’t come too soon. But any study in animals has to be considered highly preliminary. It’s simply unknown whether the results of this study apply to humans. In addition, the animals did not drink tequila. They were treated with a chemical found in tequila. So, the suggestion that we (humans) might improve our bone health by drinking margaritas is, in my view, just a way to grab attention. Even if we could fast forward a few years and confirm that agave tequilana improves human bone health, it’s unlikely that the treatment would be in the form of tequila. Unfortunately, many people don’t read past the headlines. This is one time when that would be hazardous. The health impact of the alcohol in tequila — and the sugar content of agave — are just two of several “downsides” that could come about if you were worried about your bone health and took the headlines too literally.

Haven’t we been here before? This new study on “tequila for osteoporosis” reminds me of past studies touting the health benefits of chocolate, wine or coffee. The same week as the tequila story broke, other researchers reported that certain substances in red wine and coffee could improve cardiovascular health by changing the intestinal bacteria. Again, the study was in mice. Claims that some of our favorite foods and drinks are actually good for us are not new. Some claims are better supported than others. For example, the evidence that coffee consumption may reduce the incidence of certain types of liver disease in humans is compelling. Still, it’s relatively rare that doctors actually “prescribe” these foods to prevent or treat disease. Perhaps they should. But enthusiasm for doing so is tempered by concerns that excessive consumption may cause other, unhealthy effects. We’ll need much more research before tequila, or anything in it, can be recommended for bone health or any other health concern. Until then, I hope medical writers — and readers — will be careful in how they interpret preliminary research. It’s one thing to hope that what you like is also good for you. It’s quite another for that to be anything more than wishful thinking. Robert H. Shmerling, M.D., is a faculty editor at Harvard Health Publications. © 2016. President and Fellows of Harvard College. All Rights Reserved. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Fitness & Health

Start colon cancer screening by age 50 Dear Mayo Clinic: Is a colonoscopy still recommended for everyone when they turn 50? Are there other options? I am 54 and have no health issues and no family history of colon cancer, so have not yet been screened. Answer: The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends that everyone between the ages of 50 and 75 be screened on a regular basis for colon cancer. Several options are available for that screening, including colonoscopy. Colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States. Studies have shown, however, that early detection and treatment significantly raise the likelihood that colon cancer can be cured. Research has also found there to be clear benefits for everyone to start screening for colon cancer no later than age 50. Some people at higher risk may need to begin screening sooner. Colonoscopy is an effective, proven method for detecting colon cancer in its early stages, as well as for identifying and removing precancerous polyps. During a colonoscopy exam, a long, flexible tube, called a colonoscope, is inserted into the rectum. A tiny video camera at the tip of the tube allows the doctor to detect changes or abnormalities inside the entire colon.

A colonoscopy procedure typically takes about 20 to 30 minutes. If no abnormalities are found, and if you don’t have an increased risk of colon cancer, then your next colonoscopy can be in 10 years. If polyps are found and removed, or you are at risk, you will be told to repeat the procedure sooner.

Alternatives to colonoscopy Although colonoscopy is a very effective screening tool, some people prefer to avoid it, due to the thorough colon cleansing and the sedation this procedure requires. One alternative to colonoscopy is flexible sigmoidoscopy. For this procedure, a thin, flexible tube is inserted into the rectum. A tiny video camera at the tip of the tube allows the doctor to view the inside of the rectum and most of the lower part of the colon, called the sigmoid colon. A flexible sigmoidoscopy test takes about 10 minutes. You don’t need sedation for a flexible sigmoidoscopy, and the bowel cleaning is generally less extensive than it is for a colonoscopy. The major downside to this test is that it cannot find abnormalities in the upper colon.

Stool tests If you choose to have a flexible sigmoi-

doscopy rather than a colonoscopy, then it may be beneficial for you to also have another colon cancer screening test called a fecal immunochemical test, or FIT, every year. This is a lab test that checks stool samples for hidden blood. When combined with an annual FIT, flexible sigmoidoscopy is generally repeated every 10 years, although you may need it more often than that, depending on your situation. Another alternative for some people is to get only a FIT test or a similar stool test, called the fecal occult blood test, or FOBT, every year. If these tests reveal blood in the stool, a colonoscopy should be performed to try and determine the bleeding

source. FIT and FOBT require no bowel cleansing or sedation, and stool sample collection is usually done at home. Additional colon cancer screening tests include CT colonography, sometimes called virtual colonoscopy, as well as a stool test that looks for DNA changes in the stool. These tests are also less invasive than colonoscopy or flexible sigmoidoscopy, although a bowel cleansing is still necessary for the CT colonography. Stool DNA testing has been less extensively investigated compared to some other colon cancer screening tests, particularly with respect to the extent of follow-up See COLON SCREENING, page 14

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O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Reaping benefits from simple meditation By Dr. Howard LeWine Q: I have been hearing a lot more about mindfulness recently. Given my hectic life, it sounds like I might benefit. But I am not sure how to start. Any suggestions? A: Mindfulness is the practice of purposely focusing your attention on the present moment — and accepting it without judgment. Mindfulness meditation is an excellent way to get started. In mindfulness meditation, you learn to establish concentration. You observe the flow of inner thoughts, emotions and bodily sensations without judging them as good or bad. The challenge is to avoid latching on to a particular

idea, emotion or sensation, or getting caught in thinking about the past or the future. There is more than one way to practice mindfulness, but the goal of any mindfulness technique is to achieve a state of alert, focused relaxation by deliberately paying attention to thoughts and sensations without judgment. This allows the mind to refocus on the present moment. Here is a simple mindfulness meditation exercise you can try on your own: 1. Sit on a straight-backed chair or cross-legged on the floor. 2. Focus on an aspect of your breathing, such as the sensations of air flowing into your nostrils and out of your mouth, or

your belly rising and falling as you inhale and exhale. 3. Once you’ve narrowed your concentration in this way, begin to widen your focus. Become aware of sounds, sensations and ideas. 4. Embrace and consider each thought or sensation without judging it good or bad. If your mind starts to race, return your focus to your breathing. Then expand your awareness again. The benefits of mindfulness meditation tend to be related to the duration and frequency of your practice — the more you do, the greater the effect it usually has. Most people find that it takes at least 20 minutes for the mind to begin to settle, so this is a reasonable way to start. Above all, mindfulness practice involves accepting whatever arises in your aware-

ness at each moment. It involves being kind and forgiving toward yourself. If your mind wanders into planning, daydreaming or criticism, notice where it has gone and gently redirect it to sensations in the present. If you miss your intended meditation session, you simply start again. With mindfulness practice during your meditation sessions, it becomes easier to accept whatever comes your way during the rest of your day. Howard LeWine, M.D., is an internist at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston and assistant professor at Harvard Medical School. For additional consumer health information, please visit www.health.harvard.edu. © 2016 President and Fellows of Harvard College. All Rights Reserved. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Colon screening

the frequency of screening that are right for you. — Lisa Boardman, M.D., Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Mayo Clinic Q & A is an educational resource and doesn’t replace regular medical care. E-mail a question to MayoClinicQ&A@mayo.edu. For more information, visit www.mayoclinic.org.

From page 13 needed in the case of a positive test result. At your age, you need to be screened for colon cancer. Make an appointment to see your doctor and review your options. Based on your medical history, along with other possible risk factors, the two of you can decide on the screening method and

Legal Counsel for the Elderly helped 64-year-old Ms. T avoid eviction, and found her a new wheelchairaccessible home. If you’re facing eviction or foreclosure, please call us for free legal assistance. 202.434.2120. Part of the Senior Service Network Supported by the DC Office on Aging.

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Say you saw it in the Beacon | Fitness & Health

INDEPENDENT LIVING OPEN HOUSE

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6

simply

DIFFERENT

because what surrounds you really matters.

Tuesday, October 11, 2016 11 A.M. – 2 p.m. Westbrooke Clubhouse • 18310 Slade School Road • Sandy Spring, MD 20860

Discover the casual elegance and comfort of our independent living cottages. TOUR a cottage and MEET current residents. Explore Westbrooke Clubhouse, its restaurant and fitness center. Enjoy our 220-acre campus of lush pastures and hardwood forest. MAINTENANCE-FREE LIVING NEVER LOOKED SO BEAUTIFUL

An optional, informal “Lunch and Learn” presentation by Retirement Counselor Laura Wright Learn how to become a no-obligation priority list member, examine financial options and review the long-term benefits of a secure lifestyle with continuing care options. Sessions will be held at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.

301-260-2320 orr 301 301-924-2811 1-924 4-2 2811 1

Please register with Toni Davis at 301-388-7209 or tdavis@bgf.org by October 9.

www.bgf.org g rg gf.or

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O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Snacks can be fine, if you snack smarter Eating a snack or two between meals can curb hunger so that you don’t inhale everything on the dining room table when you finally sit down to supper. Snacking can also help you get in all the nutrients you need. On the flip side, grazing all day — particularly on foods of little nutritional value

— may result in eating too much and packing on extra pounds. The key is taking a smart approach to snacking. Here are some simple strategies to get you started. 1. Slow down. Take some time to enjoy what you’re eating. If that’s hard to do, try

eating unshelled pistachios or other foods that take some effort to uncover, like oranges. The pile of empty shells or peels is a good visual cue to remind you to keep an eye on serving sizes. 2. Keep canned chickpeas in the pantry. They have a meaty texture and a nutty flavor, along with plenty of satiating fiber and a little protein — the perfect combination for a filling snack. Toss chickpeas with crunchy veggies and shallots, then drizzle with a hint of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon. Just be sure to watch your serving size. 3. Toss grapes in the freezer for an easy snack. Because they’re sweet and you savor them individually, you’ll get a lot of satisfaction for just a handful of calories. 4. Include a treat every day. Believe it or not, giving yourself little treats may be the secret to losing weight — for good. Aiming to be “too good” sets you up to fail. If you

like a glass of wine with dinner, make room for it. Prefer dessert? Skip the drink and go for a low-calorie chocolate treat instead. 5. Snack (and multitask) mindfully. Munching mindlessly in front of the TV is a surefire way to eat unnecessary calories. But that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a bowl of freshly popped popcorn or your favorite snack. Instead of popping a big bag of microwave popcorn, for example, choose a “mini” 100-calorie bag. And be sure to account for those calories by cutting back elsewhere in your day. 6. Use snacks to fill nutritional gaps. Make your snacks count. Choose those that provide calcium and fiber — two nutrients that people often skimp on. Two snacks to try: a cup of yogurt with a halfcup of whole-grain cereal mixed in, or a skim latte plus an apple. 7. Brown-bag your snack. Skip the vending machine and satisfy the afternoon “munchies” with a healthy snack you packed at home. You’ll save money, and get a bigger bang for your nutritional buck. Try an ounce of almonds and an orange, or a handful of pretzels with some hummus. Planning snacks that provide both carbohydrates and protein will help tide you over until dinner. 8. Don’t get tripped up by travel. However often you travel, prepare in advance so you’ll have healthy snacks to eat en route. For shorter trips, pack a quarter-cup of dried fruit, such as apricots, a handful of almonds and a few whole-wheat crackers as healthier alternatives to the salty snacks you might find at convenience stores or the airport. Sip plenty of water along the way. EatingWell is a magazine and website devoted to healthy eating as a way of life. Online at www.eatingwell.com. © 2016 Eating Well, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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Preventing and treating diverticulosis By Marsha McCulloch, R.D. Your odds of diverticulosis increase with age — it affects more than 60 percent of people over age 70. In this condition, small pouches called diverticula form in weak spots in the wall of the large intestine (colon). Why this happens is unclear, but it’s partly hereditary. “Most people aren’t aware they have diverticulosis unless they undergo a colonoscopy or they develop a complication, such as diverticulitis, in which the pouches become inflamed, accompanied by symptoms such as sudden abdominal pain (usually on your left side), fever and nausea,” said Dr. Lisa Strate, a gastroenterologist and an associate professor of medicine at the University of Washington in Seattle. Once you’ve had an attack of diverticulitis, you are at greater risk of another episode. “A less common complication is diverticular bleeding, in which a blood vessel next to a pouch bursts, and the person loses a lot of blood in their stool,” Strate said. Such complications are called diverticular disease. The good news? “Less than 5 percent of people with diverticulosis will ever experience complications,” Strate said. “A lot of things we do to promote good health also appear to be helpful for preventing diverticular disease.”

Does fiber help? “It used to be thought that diverticulosis was primarily due to the cumulative effects of eating a low fiber diet and constipation,” Strate said. “However, two recent, welldone studies (published in 2013 in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology and in 2012 in Gastroenterology) suggest that’s not the case. Scientists looked at diverticulosis prevalence and diet in large groups of people and failed to find a link with low fiber intake or constipation.” Despite this, there’s some evidence a high fiber diet may help protect against diverticular complications, if not diverticulosis itself. The American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) recommends a fiber-rich diet for people with a history of acute diverticulitis. Additionally, a fiber-rich eating plan is important for general good health, including heart disease and cancer prevention. For decades, it was thought nuts, seeds and popcorn might lodge in diverticula, and patients with diverticulosis were advised to avoid these foods. In 2008, Strate and colleagues published a study in the Journal of the American Medical Association that involved 50,000 men who were followed for about 20 years. Men who ate more nuts and popcorn were actually less likely to develop diverticular complications than those who ate very little of these

foods. In its 2015 guidelines, the AGA does not recommend people with a history of diverticulitis automatically exclude nuts, seeds and popcorn. “Maintaining a healthy weight and exercising regularly — especially vigorous physical activity, such as jogging — may help reduce risk of diverticulitis,” Strate said. “Individuals with a body mass index (BMI) at or above 30, which is considered obese, are at a higher risk of diverticular disease.” Extra fat in the abdominal area triggers the body to produce inflammatory compounds, such as those found in diverticulitis.

Pain relievers and vitamins

ibuprofen, to greater risk of diverticulitis,” Strate said. The AGA suggests people with a history of diverticulitis avoid non-aspirin NSAIDS, if possible. “Current recommendations do not advise people to stop aspirin, which they may be taking to protect their cardiovascular system. Increased risk of diverticulitis from aspirin is lower than with NSAIDS,” she said. Strate coauthored two recent human studies related to vitamin D and diverticulitis risk. Results of both studies suggest having adequate vitamin D levels might help reduce risk of diverticulitis. Your doctor can test your blood levels of vitamin D.

“Several studies have linked nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), such as

See DIVERTICULOSIS, page 18

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O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Local manâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s role in presidential debates By Robert Friedman Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time for the quadrennial presidential election again, and Fred A. Kahn of Bethesda is closely monitoring that which he was instrumental in bringing about: the televised presidential debates. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m the [former] student of the University of Maryland who, 60 years ago, stepped to the fore, paving the way to the presidential televised debates,â&#x20AC;? said the 83-year-old former federal government economist. As over 80 million viewers watched

Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump clash in the first of their three televised debates, Kahn has come forth again to claim credit for originating the event. Born to Jewish parents in Wiesbaden, Germany, Kahn escaped the Nazis by being smuggled into Belgium at the age of 6, went into hiding until Belgian was liberated in 1944, immigrated to Baltimore in 1952 at the age of 19, and became an American citizen in 1953 while serving in the U.S. Army.

Drumming up political activism After entering the University of Maryland on the G.I. Bill, he became a member of the universityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s International Club. It was 1956, and in those politically lackadaisical campus days, the clubâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s students seemed to be the only ones interested in the upcoming presidential election, Kahn recalled in a recent interview. â&#x20AC;&#x153;When I became a U.S. citizen, I wanted to be a good citizen,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I had been stateless, but was now living in a democracy and appreciated it.â&#x20AC;? So, as vice president of the International Club he suggested that President Dwight

Diverticulosis From page 17 Top food sources of vitamin D include salmon, fortified milk and eggs. A 2014 study published in the International Journal of Colorectal Disease reported that diverticulosis patients taking 300 milligrams daily of supplemental butyrate â&#x20AC;&#x201D; a type of fat that nourishes colon cells â&#x20AC;&#x201D; for 12 months had a reduced incidence of diverticulitis compared to those given a placebo (7 percent versus 32 percent, respectively). This evidence is preliminary, so supplemental butyrate isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t a standard recommendation for diverticulitis prevention, al-

Eisenhower and former Illinois Governor Adlai Stevenson, the Democratic Partyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nominee for the White House, appear on the College Park campus to answer questions from a panel of students. His goal was to get students involved in the election, even though most could not vote (18year-olds were not given the vote until 1971, with the 26th Amendment). Among those who supported the idea was former First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt, who answered a letter he sent her, saying she thought such a debate â&#x20AC;&#x153;would arouse See DEBATES, page 21

though it could be tried with your doctorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s guidance. BodyBio Cal-Mag Butyrate and Ecological Formulas Butyric Acid are two brands consumers can buy. Probiotic supplements have received little study in diverticulosis, and the AGA doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t include probiotics in its recommendations for reducing recurrence of diverticular complications. However, they may support gut health in general. Reprinted with permission from Environmental Nutrition, a monthly publication of Belvoir Media Group, LLC. 800-829-5384. www.EnvironmentalNutrition.com. ÂŠ 2016 Belvoir Media Group. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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Architect From page 1 mortgages, and the Navys were unable to find financing. Navy’s boss stepped in and lent them the money.

Designing buildings near and far After honing his skills for a decade — including helping draft the first buildings for the planned community of Columbia, Md. — Navy opened Washington, D.C.’s first African American-owned architecture firm together with two other Howard University graduates. At the firm, Navy, Marshall & Gordon, he worked for three decades on a variety of projects that stretched from Washington to Afghanistan. Navy helped design several Metro stops, including Glenmont at the end of

the Red Line, just three miles down Georgia Avenue from Leisure World. He also designed the Hyatt Hotel and plaza in downtown Bethesda and the Howard University School of Business. Internationally, his firm designed a women’s dormitory in Afghanistan, an agricultural college in Guinea, West Africa, and housing in Haiti, working under contracts with the U.S. Agency for International Development. Navy said the project that had the most meaning for him was designing a medical clinic in Jackson, Miss., in the 1970s that brought healthcare to an underserved black community. His work there went beyond architectural blueprints. “We created a bus service system that would go out in the community and country and bring them in, as well as a cafeteria. It worked extremely well,” Navy said. “It was

O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

one of the examples of rural medical care for the whole United States. I was proud. “That made me happier than most [projects] because I could see it from beginning to end. Seeing how bad off people were, we could see we made a big difference to the community, so we were very happy with that.”

Honoring MLK Another project that Navy is proud of is his role in creating the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial near the National Mall. Navy was a member of the same national black fraternity as King, Alpha Phi Alpha. Navy and a half dozen other local fraternity members worked for 20 years to get the Memorial built — getting permission, garnering Congressional support, and raising funds for the $120 million granite memorial that opened in 2011. “We had never had a black man honored on the Mall. This was a man of our generation, a great man, and despite various setbacks [including initially being told the memorial would be on U Street rather than the Mall], it was so gratifying that we were able to honor him in this way,” said Navy, who is the only member of the memorial’s originators still living. Navy is also one of only two of Leisure World’s first architects remaining. That he is now one of the community’s nearly 9,000 residents is important, said Marian Altman, president of the Leisure World Foun-

dation and a 15-year resident. She and the foundation recently published a book on the occasion of Leisure World’s 50th anniversary. “It was very difficult for any of us to find any documentation [regarding its creation], and the documentation we did find was scattered everywhere. Having Harold Navy as a resource was invaluable,” she said. Altman recalled her first visit to Leisure World in 1970 with a boss when she was 25 years old. “There were no mature trees, they were all just planted with the community. And everybody drove golf carts like the Jetsons,” she said. Besides the condos and single-level homes, she noticed a number of townhouses. They possessed certain accessibility features, such as lower light switches and countertops for residents in wheelchairs, but no elevators. When she met with Navy years later, while putting together the anniversary book, she asked him why the townhouses had so many steps if they were meant to be accessible? Navy really didn’t have an answer. He said that the architects wanted to make sure the houses would be as comfortable and accommodating as possible for seniors. Perhaps financial realities kept them from being truly accessible. For Kevin B. Flannery, Leisure World’s CEO and general manager, the original deSee ARCHITECT, page 21

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WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6

Debates From page 18 the interest of young people all over the country” and that she was forwarding the idea to Stevenson’s campaign managers. The Maryland Board of Regents had banned political speeches on campus, and the candidates’ debate did not get off the ground in 1956, although both the Associated Press and United Press International wrote stories about Kahn’s idea. Kahn told the Beacon that while working for the State Department at the U.S. pavilion during the 1958 World’s Fair in Brussels, Belgium, he met Stevenson, who was on his way to Moscow. “I told Stevenson about the idea for the

Architect From page 20 sign of the community has stood the test of time — to a point. “When I look at some of the literature from when they were first promoting and selling the community, it was very much framed in the context of retirement at this age of 55 which, 50 years ago, was the target date. “The operations of the community were built on providing things like clubhouses and the swimming pool, and staffing it with maintenance people, this whole carefree type of community.”

debates. He seemed to already know about it. He said it was a good idea, and he would push it.” Then in 1960, Richard Nixon and John F. Kennedy took to the podiums of a Washington, D.C. TV studio for the nation’s first ever presidential debate. Over the years, when the media gave credit for the debates, it often went to the people in Stevenson’s office. This upset Kahn, who then began making contacts to show who came up with the idea and for what reason. Maryland Rep. Chris Van Hollen, in a speech on the House floor in 2014, praised that effort, saying that Kahn “has made outstanding contributions to our government, our country and our community.” Today, the average age of residents is about 72, and 10 to 15 percent of them still work, Flannery said. And while the amenities still draw residents, what they want is changing. For example, Leisure World is currently doing a $2 million renovation to one of its buildings to create a new fitness center — something that wasn’t even part of the lexicon 50 years ago. As for the Navys, the couple thought about moving south after retirement, but all their friends, doctors and church were in Maryland, as well as a daughter. “There are so many amenities [here], it’s near shopping, and we wouldn’t have to leave our neighbors and friends,” Navy said.

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Given all that history, the Beacon asked Kahn (a few days before the first Trump vs. Clinton debate) if he was looking forward to it? “I just hope the moderator will be strong enough to get them to stop as soon as they

start trading personal insults,” Kahn said. “Unfortunately, they may not be as courteous as candidates in past debates.” He added, perhaps showing his favoritism to one of the candidates, “If Trump starts with the insults, the best thing for Hillary to do is quote from earlier debates, when President Reagan told his debate opponents (President Carter in 1980 and Democratic candidate Walther Mondale in 1984): ‘There you go again.’” Kahn added: “If you look at today, you’ll see what I had in mind in 1956. I wanted to get young people involved, which they have really done today, especially with the candidate Bernie Sanders. The young voters got involved, which was exactly what I had in mind.”

He’s even joined the Buildings and Grounds Committee to oversee and improve

the community — and keep an eye on what he helped create half a century ago.

Also, Mike McCurry, former press secretary to President Clinton and now cochairman of the Commission on Presidential Debates, which organizes the events, told Kahn in an e-mail in August: “We had a meeting of the Commission this morning and unanimously approved a certificate of appreciation for your role in leading us towards televised presidential debates.”

Today’s debates

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Health Studies Page

O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

THE PLACE TO LOOK FOR INFORMATION ON AREA CLINICAL TRIALS

Studying curative effects of pure oxygen By Barbara Ruben Breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber has been shown to help with wound healing, carbon monoxide poisoning, recovery from injuries due to radiation treatment, and 10 other uses that have been cleared by the Food and Drug Administration. During hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), atmospheric pressure is raised to up to three times higher than normal, al-

lowing your lungs to absorb much more oxygen. The oxygen is then dissolved in your blood, and the increased blood oxygen can fight infections and minimize injuries. When breathing air in the atmosphere, the concentration of oxygen is 21 percent; in HBOT it is 100 percent. Dr. Yvoune Petrie, owner of Virginia Integrative Health in Vienna, Va., said she had a patient who had undergone radiation therapy for throat cancer. The treatment killed

the blood supply to his jaw bone, which in turn affected his teeth. She said treatment with HBOT helped him grow new blood vessels and regenerate his jaw bone. But she said that while HBOT has the potential to help millions of patients, it’s not offered in very many locations because of the $1 million cost for the submarine-like chambers, and their extreme weight. To get a 2,500 pound machine into her third floor office, Petrie would have needed a crane to hoist it in.

A new kind of chamber Petrie is now working to get FDA approval for a far lighter and less expensive type of HBOT chamber called HematoCare, which is in use in Europe. The coneshaped machine weighs just 275 pounds and is small enough to fit through a standard door. “If this were available, far more clinics and assisted living facilities could offer it. It really has the potential to help a lot of people,” she said. Virginia Integrative Health is now looking for patients with six specific conditions to undergo therapy in the HematoCare. They will then compare the results of this HBOT with published studies on patients from the tradition hyperbaric oxygen chambers to see if it works at least as well.

Taking part in the study The six conditions are: poorly healing wounds and grafts, crush injuries, delayed

radiation injuries, diabetic and venous ulcers, sudden sensorineural hearing loss of unknown origin, and osteomyelitis, a bone infection. Those in the study will have 20 to 40 treatments Monday through Friday, which will take four to eight weeks. Each treatment lasts about 90 minutes. Participants will fill out a questionnaire after all treatments are completed. Petrie said the HematoCare is similar to an MRI machine, but larger. She said patients do not get claustrophobic in it, and can watch movies or listen to music during their treatment. She even has two small therapy dogs that can go in the chamber to offer comfort if a patient is worried about the treatment. Being in a pressurized chamber feels like being in an airplane, Petrie said. It’s likely your ears will pop. While she said there are few side effects, Petrie noted that it’s possible participants might experience ear problems and low blood sugar, which is more likely in patients with diabetes. To take part in the study, you must be at least 18 years old (there is no upper age limit), have one of the six conditions listed above, and be able to read and write in English. The study does not offer compensation, though treatment costs are usually covered by medical insurance or Medicare. For more information, contact Petrie at (703) 938-1421 or drpetrie@integrativehyperbaric.com.

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The most meaningful words to describe Holy Cross Germantown Hospital are:

Your very own. From Joy’s praise for her successful gynecologic surgery, to Glenn’s gratitude for his mother’s care during an orthopedic emergency, and Alexa’s peace of mind from delivering twins with a trusted team, it’s our patients’ very own words that best describe Holy Cross Germantown Hospital.

Marie and Glenn Alexa

Holy Cross has brought its expertise and technology to upper Montgomery County. And every room in our beautiful hospital is private so you can surround yourself in a safe, comfortable environment that promotes healing. Visit HolyCrossHealth.org to read more stories, take virtual tours, find a doctor and see why you’ll want to call Holy Cross Germantown Hospital your very own.

Joy

U P C O M I N G E V E N T S AT H O LY C R O S S G E R M A N T O W N H O S P I TA L Events are FREE unless otherwise noted and are held at 19801 Observation Dr., Germantown, MD 20876. To register or see a full list of events, call 301-754-8800 or visit HolyCrossHealth.org. Oct. 11 or Dec. 13 JOINTS: REPAIRS AND REPLACEMENTS

Oct. 25 BREAST HEALTH AND DISEASE

Oct. 28, Nov. 18 or Dec. 16 MEDICATION REVIEW

Mondays, Nov. 7 - Dec. 5 MEMORY ACADEMY

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Learn about the risks and benefits of treatment options for joint tears and fractures, including joint replacement. Panelists include orthopedic surgeons:

Breast experts discuss the importance of maintaining breast health, screening mammography recommendations, and the latest breast cancer news and treatments. Panelists include:

Bring your medications and consult a Holy Cross pharmacist about drug interactions, dosing and side effects.

This five-week program teaches practical techniques for enhancing memory ability and is not intended for those with Alzheimer’s disease.

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O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Cholesterol study uses monitoring scans By Barbara Ruben Coronary artery disease is characterized by the build-up of plaque in arteries, which can lead to stroke or heart disease. To help shrink the plaque, patients are often prescribed cholesterol-lowering drugs called statins. Generally, patients’ cholesterol levels are monitored by blood tests. But to see if plaque

has actually been reduced, doctors require patients to have invasive angiography. In a new study at the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, Md., researchers want to study whether less-invasive CT scanning can determine if a patient’s arterial plaque has decreased while taking statins. The study is called CT COMPARE,

which stands for CT COronary Angiography to Measure PlAque REduction.

Testing two statins During the study, participants will be divided into two groups. Those in the first group will take a moderately intense dose of atorvastatin (generic Lipitor) of 40 to 80 mg. once daily. For comparison, the lowest dose of atorvastatin taken by patients with high cholesterol is 10 mg. and the highest is 80 mg. Those in the second group will take atorvastatin along with 20 to 40 mg. of another cholesterol-lowering drug, rosuvastatin (generic Crestor). The general dosage for this drug ranges from 5 to 40 mg. All participants will get cholesterol medication; there is no placebo group. During the first study visit, participants will be screened with a medical history and blood tests. They will also have a heart MRI and CT scan. During the scans, an IV is inserted into a vein to inject a contrast solution. During both scans, participants lie on a table that slides into a machine that takes pictures of the body. For the CT scan, if their heart rate is too high, they will get medicine to lower it. Participants will begin statin treatment after the initial scans. They will have seven more visits over three years. All visits include blood tests and medication review. Some of the visits may also include medication adjustment, CT or MRI scans, and a physical exam. While this study does not offer compensation, participants may join a substudy in which they get PET scans, and this section

of the trial does offer compensation. The substudy includes five more visits. They may also receive compensation if they join the Reproducibility Substudy. To be eligible for that, they must have had a slow heart rate during their first CT scan. There will be an additional heart CT scan four weeks later.

Study eligibility To qualify for the study, men must be 45 to 75 years old and women 50 to 75. They must have high cholesterol and be eligible to take statins, with at least a 5 percent risk of having a cardiovascular event, such as a heart attack or stroke, in the next 10 years, as measured by American Heart Association guidelines. If their risk is lower, they must have a coronary artery calcium score greater than or equal to 300 Agatston units, or greater than or equal to the 75th percentile for their age, gender and ethnicity. Those in the study cannot have kidney disease. They also cannot have undergone high intensity statin treatment for more than 90 days prior to enrollment in the study. Those with very high LDL cholesterol (190 or higher) cannot take part. Participants also cannot have had a heart attack or stroke, or been diagnosed with angina or heart failure. They also cannot currently be under treatment for cancer. To learn more about the study, call 1800-411-1222 or go online to www.clinicaltrials.gov. Refer to study 16-CC-0089.

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Make energy bars to fuel your workout Want to give your workout a boost? These five key ingredients can give your body an extra edge when exercising, or when recovering from your workout. And as a bonus, they can be packed into a delicious, convenient energy bar (recipe below) to both power your workout and help you refuel afterward. 1. Peanuts: The most protein-rich nut of them all helps give this energy bar an egg’s worth of quality protein. Pre-workout: A little protein staves off hunger without overtaxing digestion. Post-workout: Protein helps repair muscles and stokes your body’s muscle-building machinery — especially when consumed within a half hour after exercising. 2. Brown rice cereal (and syrup) and oats: Both are rich in carbohydrates, the fuel your muscles prefer. Pre-workout: The quickly absorbed sugars in the cereal and syrup provide a shot of “use-it-now” fuel, while fiber-rich oats supply sustained energy. Post-workout: Provide a healthy amount of carbs to replenish depleted glycogen. (Glycogen is how the body stores carbohydrates for use by our muscles.) 3. Dried blueberries. Dried blueberries are a tasty and antioxidant-rich alternative to raisins. Pre-workout: The easily digested carbohydrates in blueberries fuel muscles, plus

a little fiber provides staying power. Post-workout: Polyphenolic compounds in blueberries may help combat oxidative stress in muscles — potentially preventing soreness and inflammation. 4. Chocolate chips: You probably don’t need a justification to add chocolate chips to your energy bars, but there actually are some health reasons to add them. Pre-workout: Antioxidants in dark chocolate help prevent muscle soreness later on. One study of bikers showed dark chocolate helped reduce oxidative stress in muscles — a component of muscle soreness. Post-workout: Dark chocolate provides flavonols (compounds that can help improve blood flow), which brings more oxygen to replenish your hardworking muscles. 5. Pumpkin seeds: Pumpkin seeds are good sources of alpha-linolenic acid, a plant form of omega-3 fatty acids that can help fight inflammation, a factor in muscle soreness.

1/3 cup raw pumpkin (or sunflower) seeds 1/4 cup dried blueberries 6 dried apricots, diced 3 tablespoons mini chocolate chips 5 tablespoons brown rice syrup (or light corn syrup) Preheat oven to 325 F. Line the bottom and sides of an 8-inch-square baking pan with foil and coat with cooking spray. Combine peanuts, crispy brown rice cereal, rolled oats, seeds, dried blueberries, dried apricots and mini chocolate chips in a large bowl. Drizzle with brown rice syrup (or light corn syrup), and gently stir until thoroughly combined. Spread in the prepared baking pan. Coat another piece of foil with cooking spray

Homemade Energy Bars Makes: 12 bars, 167 calories each Active time: 15 minutes Total time: 1 1/4 hours 1 cup lightly salted dry-roasted peanuts, coarsely chopped 1/2 cup crispy brown rice cereal 1/2 cup old-fashioned or quick-cooking rolled oats

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and place on top of the bar mixture, sprayed-side down. Place another pan on top and press firmly to compress the mixture. (Pressing before baking helps the bars hold together after baking.) Remove top pan and foil. Bake until just beginning to turn golden at the edges — 20 to 24 minutes in a metal pan, or 30 to 35 minutes in a glass pan. Cool in the pan on a wire rack for 10 minutes. Holding the edges of the foil, carefully lift the baked square out of the pan and place on a cutting board, leaving the foil underneath. Cut in half, then cut each half crosswise into six bars. Let cool completely before lifting the bars off the foil. © 2016 Eating Well, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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Answers to your “weighty” questions By Dr. Howard LeWine Q: I need to lose a few pounds and also want to improve my eating habits. I read that foods with a lower glycemic index are better for you. Is it really that important? A: Not so long ago, reducing fat was promoted as the healthy way to lose weight. We now know that’s not the case. Restricting carbohydrates, especially those with a high glycemic index, is a much better approach.

The glycemic index is a number that indicates how rapidly the body digests a particular type of food and converts it into blood sugar (glucose). When you eat a high-glycemic food, the sugar in that food becomes readily available as soon as it passes through the stomach to the intestines. You may feel a sudden surge of energy as sugar (in the form of glucose) pours into your blood. Your body will react to the glucose elevation by producing more insulin.

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However, the insulin rush will deplete that blood glucose within the next couple of hours. You may even feel tired and shaky if your glucose level drops too low too quickly. And you’ll probably crave a high-glycemic snack, which certainly won’t help with weight loss. In contrast, low-glycemic foods require more processing time in the digestive system, as enzymes work to separate the sugar from other components. Glucose flows slowly into the bloodstream, and insulin is released gradually, too. As a result, you remain sated longer and are less likely to overeat. Even if you would rather not take the time to look up the glycemic index of everything on your plate, you can still benefit from the driving force behind the glycemic index. Simply avoid highly processed foods, especially those with lots of concentrated sugars and refined starches — for example, white flour, packaged cereals and instant oatmeal. Instead, choose foods with a low glycemic index, since they are likely to contain few sugars. And when they do contain sugars, the sugars are part of the natural food structure and aren’t as readily available. So they enter the blood stream slowly. Q: I recently met my new doctor. He was worried about my waist size. I’ve always had a big belly, but I have never been overweight. What’s more important: body weight or waist size? A: That’s terrific that your doctor focused on your waist size. Even though you are not overweight, having a large belly raises your risk of developing heart disease. Mounting evidence suggests that waist circumference is a better gauge of heart disease risk than body mass index (BMI). A big belly — what doctors call central or

abdominal obesity — signals the presence of visceral fat. It’s the fat that surrounds your internal organs. In general, as your waistline increases, so does your visceral fat. Visceral fat is metabolically active, which means it produces hormones and other factors that promote inflammation. Inflammation plays a key role in the accumulation of cholesterol-laden plaque inside the arteries, which may explain the link between visceral fat and cardiovascular problems. Calculating your waist-to-hip ratio is an easy way to find out if you may have too much visceral fat. Use a tape measure to get a reading on your waist size. Exhale and wrap the tape around your bare abdomen just above your navel (belly button). Don’t suck in your gut or pull the tape tight enough to squeeze the area. Next put the tape measure around the widest part of your buttocks. Keep the tape measure level. Now divide your waist size by your hip size to calculate your waist-tohip ratio. Central obesity is defined as having a waist-to-hip ratio of greater than 1.0 for men or greater than 0.9 for women. Certain people are more likely to accumulate visceral fat, which is governed by genetic, ethnic and gender differences. For example, natives of India and South Asia have a higher-than-average propensity for abdominal obesity. And white men and black women tend to accumulate more visceral fat compared with black men and white women. Fortunately, with diet and exercise we tend to lose visceral fat first, before fat underneath our skin. That’s why shedding as little as 7 percent of your excess weight helps lower heart disease risk: the most dangerous fat goes first. © 2016 President and Fellows of Harvard College. All Rights Reserved. Distributed By Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6

Bake ahead for a quick healthy breakfast By Melissa d’Arabian When it comes to healthy eating, good intentions and willpower can only take us so far. That’s why I believe strongly in making the healthy choice the easy choice, especially when it comes to morning decisions. Spending a little time to set myself up for success makes a huge difference in my ability to stick to my healthy living plans. For instance, I set out my workout clothes the night before, so rolling out of bed and into them is a no-brainer. Should the extra 15-seconds that it would take for me to open the dresser drawer to grab my exercise clothes be the thing that derails an entire workout? Perhaps not. But alas it does. For me, anyway. Same thing can happen when it comes to food. When I’m hungry and in a rush, I’m far more likely to grab just anything that will fill my belly. But I’ll absolutely eat a healthy protein-filled breakfast if it’s all prepped and ready to go. In fact, my whole family eats better when I invest a little time cooking and stocking my freezer with my own version of “fast food.” One of our favorites is the morning egg muffin, which is essentially scrambled eggs baked up in muffin tins. I make a dozen or two on weekends to keep in the freezer, and in less than two microwave minutes, we have a weekday break-

fast that is chock-full of filling protein. My secret: I use two whole eggs to get some of that luscious fat, flavor and color from the yolk, and then load up on serious-protein egg whites. Use whatever veggies you have on hand, and don’t be shy about loading up — even my two pickiest kiddos love these little guys! Make several flavors when you find eggs on sale, and you’ll have a veritable morning buffet of protein for weeks. No last minute drive-thrus to stave off the hunger on the way to work.

Bake-Ahead Morning Egg Cups Start to finish: 25 minutes Makes 12 “muffins” 1 link turkey Italian sausage, about 3 ounces, crumbled 1/2 red pepper, chopped 2 tablespoons chopped onion 1 tablespoon flour (all purpose or rice flour both work) 1 1/2 cups baby spinach, washed 2 eggs 3/4 cup egg whites (about 7 egg whites) 1/4 cup lowfat milk 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese Preheat the oven to 350 F. In a saute pan, cook the sausage over medium high heat until no longer pink, about 5 minutes. Add the pepper and chopped onion and cook

until vegetables begin to soften, about 3 minutes. Sprinkle with the flour and stir in. Chop the spinach and stir into the pan, and cook another minute for spinach to wilt. Remove from heat and allow to cool a few minutes. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg whites and milk until pale yellow and smooth. Stir in the sausage mixture and cheese. Spray a 12-cup muffin tin with nonstick spray. Spoon the mixture evenly into the

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tin. Bake until eggs are firm but not dry, about 15 minutes. Let cool in the muffin tins for 10 minutes before removing, then allow to cool on a baking rack. Eat right away, or freeze in a resealable freezer bag. Label well! To microwave for breakfast: Wrap muffins in a paper towel and heat on 70 percent heat until hot, about 90 seconds, depending on microwave strength. Nutrition information per muffin: 60 See RECIPE, page 28

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O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Is your medicine making you anxious? You wake up at 4 a.m. feeling tired, yet wired, and you keep twirling some person or event in your head, never going back to sleep. Or you feel something bad is going to happen today; you just know it! Or your chest pounds and you feel dread when you think about going to that event or speaking to a certain someone. These are some symptoms of anxiety. Some of you live with this every day, perhaps several times a day. Ruminating in a state of fear, panic or anxiety can bring about other symptoms in your body that over time, wear your adrenals out, and lead to severe insomnia, depression and high blood pressure. Stress can also cause ulcers. There’s a difference between an anxiety or

panic attack and generalized anxiety disorder, or GAD. The difference is that one (the attack) is finite and quick, while the other is constant. GAD sufferers often expect the worst when there’s no real reason for concern, or they may fret about health, money, family or work issues. When you find that these intrusive thoughts are occupying much of your day, it’s time to do something about it. As a pharmacist, I bet you think that I’m going to recommend a tranquilizer, but I’m not. In fact, that is the worst possible thing you could do! I rarely recommend drug treatment for anxiety. Rather, I hold the opposite belief. I actually want you to consider the possibility that a medication you take may be CAUSING the

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anxiety and changes in your mood. doephedrine, which is a decongestant. For almost 7 million folks with GAD, it’s This is also a stimulant and can cause you very possible that most of them to feel anxious. are taking a medication that inSleeping medicine. It’s duces anxiety. Below I list some hard to believe, but these of the worst possible offenders drugs don’t put you into a rest(you are going to be stunned). ful, natural sleep. Oftentimes, If you take any of these, speak they steal your high-quality to your doctor, because you will REM sleep. So by using them, need to find a suitable alternaover time you actually become tive, or follow very careful insleep-deprived. Anxiety sets in. structions to taper off from Asthma inhalers. The althese drugs. Stopping suddenly buterol in these medications is DEAR could be a disaster. the offender. It’s great to help PHARMACIST Here goes: open up breathing passageBy Suzy Cohen Tranquilizers. Shocker, isn’t ways, but it causes a person to it? The medicine you may be feel stressed and hyperactive. taking to relax can actually lead to anxiety and For a more comprehensive list of medicapanic attacks! According to a 1995 study, in al- tion categories that spark anxiety, sign up most half the patients seeking advice for anxi- for my free newsletter at suzycohen.com . ety, panic and phobias, the cause was either This information is opinion only. It is not alcohol or benzodiazepine drugs like clon- intended to treat, cure or diagnose your conazepam, alprazolam, lorazepam and others. dition. Consult with your doctor before using The mechanism is complicated, but it’s any new drug or supplement. due to a rebound effect. Getting off these Suzy Cohen is a registered pharmacist drugs can be a nightmare, so I’d say don’t and the author of The 24-Hour Pharmacist even start with them. and Real Solutions from Head to Toe. To Allergy medicines. It’s from the pseu- contact her, visit www.SuzyCohen.com.

Recipe From page 27 calories; 28 calories from fat; 3 g. fat (1 g. saturated; 0 g. trans fats); 47 mg. cholesterol; 109 mg. sodium; 2 g. carbohydrate; 0

g. fiber; 1 g. sugar; 6 g. protein. Food Network star Melissa d’Arabian is an expert on healthy eating on a budget. She is the author of the cookbook “Supermarket Healthy.” Find her online at www.melissadarabian.net.

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When keeping a secret creates a dilemma Dear Solutions: come decision. So everyone will, hopefully, My daughter is getting married. I just be happy about the wedding. found out that she’s pregnant No matter how close you but doesn’t want that to be are to your sister, you didn’t known because she doesn’t give birth to her. But you did want people to think that’s the to your daughter, and your obreason for the marriage. Thus, ligation is to keep her secret. she’s sworn me to secrecy. You are honoring your sisI want her to have a lovely ter’s sincerity by not assuming wedding, but I’m now a widow that she and her husband and a little stressed financially. would withdraw their help if My sister and her husband, they knew about the pregnanwho are thrilled that she’s getcy. Tell your sister afterward ting married and want her to SOLUTIONS about your promise to your have a great wedding, insist on By Helen Oxenberg, daughter, and let’s hope everyhelping financially with my part. MSW, ACSW one will be happy — including My sister and I have always that baby! been very close and have always confided Dear Solutions: in each other. I’m conflicted about what to I don’t know how to talk to a person I tell her, because I wouldn’t want my broth- call “a whiner.” This is an old friend. When er-in-law to know this beforehand, and I we worked together, there wasn’t time for don’t want her to be angry afterward. But I complaints and grumbling. It’s true some promised my daughter to keep mum. sad things have happened to her — as to So I’m not sure how to handle this. What all of us as we grow older. do you suggest? There’s also the dinner people we go out — Lena with and who just keep talking about their Dear Lena: illnesses, etc. How to reply without nastiFirst of all, being pregnant and deciding ness? to get married is usually a good and wel— Cathy

Tell them you saw it in the Beacon!

Dear Cathy: Turn the conversation to the news or the election. That should cheer everyone up! Why do they do this complaining? Because it makes them feel that they’re not ignoring their problems, but as if they’re doing something about them. As for your friend — take control. She may be doing this out of boredom, as well as people’s love of talking about themselves. Instead of just being a listener, plan things that you can do together and talk about afterward. As for the dinner crowd who become each other’s doctors — take control there, too. At the beginning of the dinner announce that each person has exactly five

minutes to report on his/her latest medical condition. At the end of those cheerful reports, each person has 10 minutes to bring in another topic of interest for discussion. Another suggestion: ask each person to pledge that before the next gathering, he/she when getting up in the morning will smile and say, “I’m going to have a good day today.” At the next meeting, their five minutes can be spent reporting on how that affected them for the rest of the day and week. Have fun. © Helen Oxenberg, 2016. Questions to be considered for this column may be sent to: The Beacon, P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915. You may also email the author at helox72@comcast.net. To inquire about reprint rights, call (609) 655-3684.

A SHBURN

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RSVP to Isma or Ardell today (571) 982-6318 Bladder leakage or erectile dysfunction may affect your confidence and intimacy.1, 2 Maybe it’s time to take control. We can help you turn your life around ! Please join us for an educational seminar to discuss the latest solutions.

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Space is Limited, call to register today. 202-630-7425 Boston Scientific Corporation has sponsored funding for this patient seminar and accompanying educational material. 1. DiMeo PJ. Psychosocial and Relationship Issues in Men with Erectile Dysfunction. Urologic Nursing. 2006 Dec; 26(6): 442-453. 2. Hunskaaar S, Sandvik H. One Hundred and Fifty Men with Urinary Incontinence. III. Psychosocial Consequences. Scand J Prim Health Care. 1993; 11:193-96.

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Caregivers bring help and peace of mind By Rebekah Alcalde At 95, Jose Vargas is still very active — despite the dialysis he receives three times a week and his wobbly gait. “I am not an invalid,” he insists. In fact, on a good day, he goes for walks and swims for exercise. Vargas credits his certified nursing assistant (CNA), Yvonne Oldacre, with his continued activity. He found her through the home care agency ElderCaring, where Oldacre has worked for nine years. She has spent the last two of them helping Vargas. Oldacre says her job is her passion. “I love taking care of people,” she said. “I get so much wisdom from them.” Home care services offered by agencies like ElderCaring encompass a wide range of health and social services, delivered at home or in other facilities. These individuals typically need medical, nursing, social or therapeutic treatment, and/or assistance with what are

known as “activities of daily living” (ADLs). This term includes six broad categories of needs, including bathing, dressing, eating, toileting, walking and continence.

Who needs home care? Generally, home care is appropriate whenever a person prefers to stay at home but needs ongoing care that cannot easily or effectively be provided solely by family and friends. More and more older people, electing to live independent, non-institutionalized lives, are receiving home care services. Such services are generally available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Depending on a person’s needs, these services may be provided by an individual or a team of specialists on a part-time, intermittent, hourly or shift basis. Caregivers providing such services may include home care aides, as well as li-

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censed CNAs and Geriatric Nursing Assistants (GNAs). CNAs and GNAs are paraprofessionals who can assist with ADLs. Like home care aides, they may also offer food preparation, light housekeeping and laundry assistance. With an additional Med Tech License, CNAs and GNAs can also administer certain medications. ElderCaring is a family-owned nursing referral agency that helps match caregivers (as independent contractors) with clients in Washington, D.C. and in Montgomery and Prince George’s counties, Maryland. Their caregiver fees range from $17.50 to $25 per hour. The cost per hour is usually influenced by the amount of hours worked. Longer working hours usually entail lower hourly rates. For example, through ElderCaring, a med tech CNA making a 2-hour visit to review medications might cost $25 per hour, while a CNA offering assistance for a 12-hour shift five days a week would generally cost $19.50 per hour. Live-in rates begin at $230 per day. Because clients legally hire the care worker directly, clients are responsible for federal and state requirements relating to employee paperwork, Social Security, tax withholding and the like.

Home care for safety Mobility issues especially create the need for care at home. Pamela Smith’s aging father “has serious stability issues and has fallen down several times in recent years,” she said. Last year, the family hired caregivers from Home Care Assistance to give him the “considerable support” he requires. To protect their privacy, the family’s names have been changed.

Home Care Assistance is a national home care agency with local branches in Bethesda, Md., Washington, D.C. and Fairfax and McLean, Va. It offers hourly and daily home care and respite care, and also trains its caregivers in a cognitive stimulation program to improve their patients’ brain health. Smith feels the caregivers have been essential to her father’s daily life. “The managers, especially the main program coordinator, Vinnette, have been very professional and efficient,” she said. They take “great care to meet our specific needs and requirements, even when responding to any last-minute requests for caregivers.” As at most homecare agencies, CNAs from Home Care Assistance primarily help with ADLs. Though Pamela’s father, Robert, currently receives part-time care, his mobility and stability issues will likely demand full-time assistance in the near future. The cost of home care can vary according to the agency. Because an agency’s caregivers are employees, the agency handles all aspects of payroll, such as withholding taxes and Social Security. Some agencies, like Home Care Assistance, also process all long-term care insurance claims. As a result, the hourly rate for care is somewhat higher at agencies than for a “registry” or referral service like ElderCaring. For example, Home Care Assistance charges $25 to $28 per hour, with round-the-clock live-in care costing $365 per day.

Caregivers with specialized skills A few years ago, retired physician Don Hellerman was diagnosed with a laryngeal See CAREGIVERS, page B-3

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Caregivers

rates are charged if applicable.

From page B-2

Why pick an agency?

carcinoma, and through a series of medical mishaps, lost his leg due to the ordeal. His cancer went into remission, but living life as an amputee proved difficult for the family. The Hellermans eventually got matched with Grace Ngeburi, a CNA from Capital City Nurses. “She is incredibly reliable,” said Hellerman’s wife Susan. “She never cancels and always shows up. She’s just very helpful.” Before working with Grace, the couple had an unfortunate experience with another agency when they were assigned a few young caregivers who had no experience with amputee patients. “They were nice people, but they weren’t trained,” Susan explained. Capital City Nurses Healthcare Services offers private duty and companion care in the Washington, D.C. metro area, Maryland Eastern Shore and Delaware. Its caregivers offer a wide range of specialized skills, including Alzheimer’s and dementia care, hospice support, skilled nursing, and child care. Caregivers are vetted through a series of verifications of state certifications and licenses, multiple interviews, reference checks and criminal background checks. The hourly fees for Capital City Nurses CNAs range from $23 to $25, and overtime

In general, using a home care agency often takes the work out of finding a licensed caregiver — and offers many advantages over direct hiring, though the latter can be less expensive. [See related story in this special section: “Another option: Finding a caregiver online.”] “I think the benefit of working with a company like Capital City Nurses is the peace of mind that families get from having the support of the organization,” explained Shaun Toomey, director of business development for the agency. “The management and scheduling of a caregiver or team of caregivers, finding replacements when they take days off, and paying them individually are burdens that using an agency alleviates.” Additionally, long-term care insurance companies generally require care to be provided by a licensed home care agency. Fortunately, the Hellermans have a “wonderful long-term care insurance policy,” which covers all their caregiving costs, Susan said. Some clients feel that using an agency is the “safest way to go,” according to Alex Petukhov, president of Montgomery County-based Best Senior Care. “The caregivers are more dependable, responsible, and want to do a good job. After all, the agency will keep giving then more clients

BEACON BITS

Oct. 25

ARLINGTON VILLAGE OPEN HOUSE

Arlington Neighborhood Village is holding a Fall Open House on Tuesday, Oct. 25 from 6 to 8 p.m. All are invited to learn more about ANV’s mission to help older Arlington residents keep living active, safe and independent lives. Admission is free, and refreshments will be offered. Come to the NRECA Conference Center, 4301 Wilson Blvd., Arlington, Va. Parking is free after 5 p.m. RSVPs are requested, but drop-ins are welcome. For more information, call (703) 509-8057 or email register@arlnvil.org.

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if they do well,” he said. Clients can also be assigned a new caregiver if the situation doesn’t work out, he added. The Petukhov family originally created their agency to serve Medicaid recipients. Eventually, they broadened its hourly home care services to those in all economic brackets. Its caregivers pass personality, character and skill tests, along with reference and background checks. The cost of care ranges from $18 to $25 per hour. Petukhov says the “personal touch” is what you should look for in an agency. As a family-owned company, he says, it is likeli-

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er to have a stake in your satisfaction. For more information: • ElderCaring: www.SeniorHomeCareMD.com, (301) 949-0060. • Home Care Assistance: http://homecareassistance.com, 1-866-454-8346 • Capital City Nurses: http://capitalcitynurses.com, 1-866-807-7307 • Best Senior Care: www.bestseniorcare.us, (301) 717-2212 For additional home care services in the Washington area, see the online Seniors Resource Guide at www.theBeaconNewspapers.com/resource-guide, or call the Beacon for a printed copy at (301) 949-9766.

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O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Many sources provide home care workers Home care providers can come from a variety of sources — whether agencies, direct hire, or through online services. Here are descriptions of the differences between various types of home care agencies.

Home health agencies The term home health agency often indicates that a home care provider is Medicare-certified. A Medicare-certified agency has met federal minimum requirements for patient care and management, and therefore can provide Medicare and Medicaid home health services. Individuals requiring skilled home care services usually receive their care from a home health agency. Due to regulatory requirements, services provided by these agencies are highly supervised and controlled. Some agencies deliver a variety of home care services through physicians, nurses, therapists, social workers, homemakers and home care aides (HCAs), as well as durable medical equipment and supply dealers and volunteers. Other home health agencies limit their services to nursing and one or two other specialties. Home health agencies recruit and supervise their personnel; as a result, they assume liability for all care. The home health agency provides a

number of advantages. The agency will create and implement a comprehensive care plan and coordinate this with you and the physician. They will also manage the administrative details, such as payroll, (including state, federal, unemployment, Social Security, disability taxes, workers’ compensation, and paperwork, like the I-9 employment eligibility form), screening and supervisory oversight. Another advantage of hiring through an agency is that they can provide you with a variety of caregivers for back-up coverage so that, in most instances, you will not be without care should one caregiver be unavailable. A commonly cited disadvantage is the cost. The home care agency is usually more expensive than hiring a person privately. Some home health agencies may have a side to their agency that is private pay or non-Medicare certified. This side of the agency provides services to those individuals that no longer require skilled care, but continue to have ongoing personal, custodial care needs. The private pay side of a home health agency may have higher rates than an agency that is strictly a private pay home care agency. To find a home health agency that is right for you, ask for referrals from

friends. Check for quality of services and possible infractions. You can check with the Chamber of Commerce and Better Business Bureau, which will have a record of any specific complaint lodged against an agency.

Home care and non-medical/companion private pay agencies A private pay home care agency is generally an agency that provides home care services that are not reimbursable under Medicare. This type of agency provides what is termed “custodial care,” or care that can be given by a non-medical care provider. The services offered may range from companion care to assistance with personal care functions such as bathing and dressing. They may offer non-skilled therapy and nursing services. The care is paid for privately by the client, or in some instances, by private insurance such as long-term care insurance. It is not always mandatory to have a physician’s order for care. Some states, including Maryland, require these agencies to be licensed and meet minimum standards established by the state. Most home care agencies recruit, train and supervise their personnel, and thus are responsible for the care rendered.

Registries

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Visit TheFairfaxRetirement.com for more information or call to schedule a personalized tour today.

Registries serve as employment agencies for home care nurses and aides by matching these providers with clients and

Independent providers Independent providers are nurses, therapists, aides, homemakers and companions who are privately employed by individuals who need such services. Aides, homemakers, chore workers and companions are not required to be licensed or to meet government standards except in cases where they receive state funding. In this arrangement, the responsibility for recruiting, hiring and supervising the provider rests completely with the client. See “Find a caregiver online” on page B9 to learn more about that option. Excerpted from “Receiving Care at Home” and “Since You Care” by the MetLife Mature Market Institute and the website of the National Association for Home Care and Hospice. For more information, see www.nahc.org or call (202) 547-7424.

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collecting finder’s fees. These organizations usually are not licensed or regulated by government. Registries are not required to screen or background-check the caregivers, but some do undertake these tasks routinely. In addition, although not legally required to, some registries offer procedures for patients to file complaints. Clients select and supervise the work of a registry-referred provider. They also pay the provider directly and must comply with all applicable state and federal labor, health, and safety laws and regulations, including payroll tax and Social Security withholding requirements.

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WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6

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Another option: find a caregiver online

Care.com Care.com is an international care matching website that features a variety of care options, including childcare, adult and senior care, pet care, housekeeping and home care. It operates in the U.S., the U.K., Canada, France and several other countries. As purely a matching service, the site does not vet or recommend potential caregivers, so the responsibility is on families to research and interview candidates. The advantages for using Care.com include the ease of finding many candidates — the site boasts that there is one U.S. match every two minutes — and the simplicity of managing and paying service fees through the site. Caregivers can also sign up for direct deposit, and take advantage of the site’s payroll management and tax filing service through their feature called HomePay.

Caregivers have options for basic and premium memberships. Basic membership is free, and includes access to view and post jobs and job tips, while “premium” memberships cost $37 monthly or $147 annually. The premium membership includes higher placement in search results, quicker access to potential matches, and multiple payment options. Families looking to fill positions simply create a free, basic account to post an opening. For more information, visit www.care.com.

Families posting a position do not pay a fee initially. After finding a final pool of candidates, an upgraded membership — a 15 percent service fee attached to invoices — offers background checks, access to references, and contact with caregivers. For more information, visit www.carelinx.com/family-signup/needs or call 1800-494-3106.

GoNannies.com is another referral web-

See CAREGIVERS ONLINE, page B-6

Sixth Annual

CareLinx CareLinx was created by Sherwin Sheik, who needed a cost-effective and efficient solution for managing home care for his quadriplegic sister and his uncle, who suffered from ALS. Because of the distance between them, flying to and from his relatives’ homes wasn’t feasible. Sheik designed CareLinx as an online marketplace for professional caregivers. Families indicate their needs and job requirements on the site, and potential matches apply for the position. Families pay their caregivers through the site, and the site takes care of time tracking, tax documents and payroll. To find jobs, caregivers create a professional profile and are then vetted by site coordinators through background checks. After applying for jobs in their local area, they work with the coordinators to schedule interviews with clients. CareLinx says its caregivers receive 25 percent higher pay than average, plus Social Security, Medicare, unemployment benefits and $4 million of insurance coverage. Meanwhile, it claims families still pay up to 50 percent less than if they utilized a traditional agency, partly due to the site’s online platform.

site for matching families and caregivers, which features job postings for nannies, senior care, licensed in-home daycare, housekeeping, personal assistants, governesses, doulas and more. Additional benefits for using GoNannies include free preliminary background checks and online support. The site also boasts a “double guarantee” for finding and keeping an ideal candidate. If mem-

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By Rebekah Sewell Thanks to the internet, finding a caregiver privately is easier than ever. Instead of wading through the local paper or taking out advertisements, some websites now offer online services that match clients with caregivers. Online services are similar to an agency’s, but are generally less expensive. Private caregiving is not covered by Medicare, however, and sometimes not by long-term care insurance, so check with your insurance company before pursuing this option. Caregiver profiles usually include access to their previous clients’ reviews of their work, which can make finding a potential match easier. The sites also enable you to send messages directly to potential caregivers to get the conversation started. Here are three popular online referral sites:

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O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

How to hire a private caregiver Hiring a caregiver directly can save you money and give you more of a sense of control. On the other hand, when you hire through an agency, they typically do all the vetting and matching associated with finding a caregiver. Doing it on your own requires more time and work. Be prepared to do your research and ask the right questions. Here are some tips to help you find good candidates when hiring directly, whether through newspaper classified ads or an online service: • Figure out exactly what you’re looking for and create a list to keep yourself

organized. Do you need a full-time aide with dementia experience who will also do the cooking and cleaning? Be specific and clear about the position’s requirements when conveying it to applicants. • If the position is part-time, full-time or live-in, be sure to note that. • If live-in help is desired, make sure you have adequate living space and alternative care built into your plans, since live-in caregivers aren’t “on-duty” 24/7. • Outline the position’s duties, schedule, hours and payment. • Tell friends and family you’re looking for a caregiver and ask them to help spread the word.

Caregivers online

BEACON BITS

Oct. 22

CHESTERBROOK GALA

Chesterbrook Residences presents a night of dancing at its annual gala on Saturday, Oct. 22 from 6 to 9 p.m. Black tie is optional, but dress is formal. All proceeds are tax-deductible donations to the Chesterbrook Residences Care Fund. Chesterbrook, an assisted living community, is located at 2030 Westmoreland St., Falls Church, Va. Tickets cost $50 single/$90 couple. Online registration ends Oct. 15. At the door, $60 single/$120 couple. For more information, visit http://bit.ly/ChesterbrookGala or call (703) 531-0781.

You’re invited! OPEN HOUSE both communities

• Ask for referrals from people you know and trust in the medical community (social workers, physicians, hospital staff, etc.). • Whittle down a large pool of applicants through preliminary phone interviews, and make sure they are willing and able to do all the job requirements before proceeding. • Interview the final candidates in person. Ask them to bring a valid ID, an updated resume, a list of references and proof of any certifications. • Ask if candidates have skills with any specialized needs if necessary for the job, such as dementia-care experi-

From page B-5 bers don’t find or keep their caregiver, they receive a free 45-day membership to find someone else. There are four membership packages for families. A 30-day membership costs $39, which includes the ability to post a job, contact matches, and obtain access to preliminary background checks. A 45-day

ence. • Conduct background checks on serious candidates and make sure you obtain written consent for the checks from candidates. • Ask applicants what kind of activities they think would be appropriate for you or your loved one, or what they would do if the client became combative or agitated. They should be prepared for unexpected circumstances if need be. • Ask yourself if you can see this caregiver working well with yourself or your loved one, and make the choice that makes you the most comfortable. — Rebekah Alcalde

membership costs $69, which includes additional reference checks. A three-month membership costs $139, which includes a driving record check, DomestiShare Access — the ability to share your caregiver with other families — and a criminal background check. The six-month premium membership costs $199. For more information, visit http://gonannies.com.

Seabury Senior Living Communities

Oct. 23 ,12-3 PM Convenient Washington, DC Location

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Friendship Terrace makes affordable DC living possible for seniors. Independent living includes fun activities and opportunities to develop rewarding friendships. Residents love our park-like setting, on-site greenhouse, and convenient location—just two blocks from the Tenleytown Metro—close to shopping, restaurants, and more.

Springvale Terrace is a welcoming, caring community for seniors offering independent living as well as personal and assisted living care services. Many social events, seasonal activities, and exercise programs help keep residents active and engaged. Qualifying residents may receive vouchers/subsidies for personal care services.

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Call 202-244-7400 (TRS 711) to schedule a visit.

Call 301-587-0190 (TRS 711) to schedule a visit.

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SpringvaleTerrace.org 1-800-552-7724 MD RELAY SERVICE 8505 Springvale Road, Silver Spring, MD 20910

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Housing Options

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6

INDEPENDENT LIVING COMMUNITY

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INDEPENDENT LIVING COMMUNITY

The Bonifant at Silver Spring 844-243-0369

Brooke Grove Retirement Village 301-260-2320

929 Bonifant Street Silver Spring, MD 20910 TheBonifant.com

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

Join us at The Bonifant at Silver Spring for our Open House October 8th from 11am – 3pm! Stop by to tour the two beautifully decorated models and amazing amenities. The Bonifant at Silver Spring has brand new studio and one-bedroom apartments available, with rents starting from $990 per month. All apartments at The Bonifant include washer and dryer, full kitchens with microwave, and vinyl plank flooring. Fall weather is perfect for the outdoor terrace while the community rooms and fitness center are open for your enjoyment. Next door to the new Silver Spring Library, The Bonifant at Silver Spring for seniors 62+ is ready for you to move in. Visit today! Hablamos Español.

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

INDEPENDENT LIVING AND ASSISTED LIVING

HOME CARE

Chancellor’s Village 540-412-3640 12100 Chancellor’s Village Ln. Fredericksburg, VA 22407

Chancellor’s Village is where active seniors enjoy every day with the support of caring staff. Conveniently located between Washington and Richmond, Chancellor’s Village offers the finest independent living and assisted living for seniors in the Fredericksburg area. When you visit Chancellor’s Village, you’ll notice that our vibrant community has the elegance of a country club and the charm of a southern manor. Residents of Chancellor’s Village live in spacious, beautifully appointed apartment homes, and enjoy fine dining and housekeeping. Our calendar is packed with events and activities each day, from bible study to zumba classes. Come unretire and start living at Chancellor’s Village.

INDEPENDENT LIVING COMMUNITY

Greenspring 1-800-788-0811 7410 Spring Village Drive Springﬁeld, VA 22150 EricksonLiving.com Get the facts about active retirement living at Greenspring. All in one fantastic FREE brochure. The comprehensive Greenspring brochure is packed with the crucial information you need—and the exciting details you want— about carefree senior living. Greenspring is Springfield’s premier continuing care retirement community, designed exclusively for seniors 62-plus who want an independent retirement lifestyle with peace of mind for the future. Don’t spend another moment without the facts about vibrant retirement living at Greenspring. Call 1-877-589-9570 or visit ericksonliving.com today to request your FREE brochure today!

Home Care Assistance 202-470-4579 - DC 301-760-4431 - Bethesda 703-873-7716 - McLean 703-664-1956 - Fairfax www.HomeCareAssistance.com Our mission at Home Care Assistance is to change the way the world ages. We provide older adults across the Washington, D.C. metropolitan region with quality care that enables them to live happier, healthier lives at home. Our services are distinguished by the caliber of our caregivers, the responsiveness of our staff and our expertise in live-in care. We embrace a positive, balanced approach to aging centered on the evolving needs of older adults. Ask about our Cognitive Therapeutics Method for long-term brain health!

INDEPENDENT LIVING

Victory Terrace Apartments 301-983-9600 9440 Newbridge Drive Potomac, MD 20854 www.victoryterrace.com Nestled in a beautiful wooded preserve, Victory Terrace brings comfortable one and two bedroom apartment homes for Seniors 62 and better in the prestigious and established residential setting of Potomac, Maryland. These moderately-priced luxury rental apartment homes are convenient to nearby shopping and services. At Victory Terrace, you will enjoy social activities with new friends and the tranquility and peace of mind that comes when you know you have found the perfect home. Come and see for yourself this lovely community especially designed to suit your needs! An Equal Housing Opportunity Community.

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O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Don’t wait to check out assisted living By Christopher J. Gearon Late last summer, William Senior, of Reston, Va., put down $2,000 to get on a waitlist for a two-bedroom assisted-living apartment at a nearby continuing care retirement community for himself and his wife. His children had urged their parents to move into assisted living, a step between independent living and nursing-home care, ever since their 85-year-old mother, Lorraine, began requiring consistent home care in January 2015 for back issues that limited her mobility. After waiting nearly a year, and twice getting bumped from the top of the waitlist by current independent-living residents in need of assisted-living care, Lorraine fell on Thanksgiving weekend and broke two vertebrae and two ribs. “I should have followed my son and daughter’s advice and moved more quickly,” said Senior, 89, the Kiplinger Retirement Report’s founding editor. After his wife spent 10 weeks in a rehabilitation facility, Senior moved her to a temporary one-bedroom flat at a less-than-ideal assisted-living facility while he continued to search for a residence they could share. Finally, after trying to get into three different communities, the Seniors plan to move this summer into a newly built one just a few miles from the home they

shared for 50 years. The Seniors’ experience is a lesson for those considering assisted living: Start your search early. Doing so can help avoid delays, frustration, wasted money and even buyer’s remorse. But often assisted living is far from top of mind until a crisis strikes. “It is usually a crisis-driven decision,” said Maribeth Bersani, chief operating officer of Argentum, the national association representing assisted-living facility operators.

Starting the search There is a lot to consider when it comes to assisted living. First is figuring out when the time is right. Most of us want to stay in our homes as long as possible. But if assisted living may be in your future, do some preliminary shopping both locally and in an area to which you may move — to be near your children, for example. Assisted living is geared to those who are healthy enough to live on their own, but may need some help to live independently, perhaps with bathing, dressing or managing medicines. Of the one million seniors living in some 31,000 assisted-living centers across the U.S., more than half are age 85 or older, and nearly 40 percent require assistance

with three or more activities of daily living, according to Bersani. When you start your search, consider only state-licensed facilities. Your Area Agency on Aging is a good place to get a list of options in your area, said Catherine Seal, an elderlaw attorney in Colorado Springs, Colo. “You really have to physically visit,” advised Seal. Have a meal at the facilities on your list, and talk with residents about their experiences. “Walk around, see if the residents look clean and attended to,” she said. Another consideration: the type of facility. Assisted-living arrangements vary widely, from a handful of residents in a home-like setting, to a high-rise building with hundreds of neighbors, to a campuslike atmosphere, with high-end services. In some locales, assisted living is called a group home, retirement residence or residential care facility. Residents typically lease apartments — which can range from studio-like digs to two-bedroom spreads — on a monthly basis and eat in a common dining area.

Differing services Care services and amenities also vary widely. For example, some facilities may provide a resident doctor, skilled-nursing care and physical therapy, whereas others may provide little care.

Some communities have concierge services, in-apartment dining, happy hours and top-notch fitness centers; others don’t offer much more than transportation to doctors’ appointments. Argentum has developed a set of voluntary standards on a range of issues — including resident rights, care, staff training and qualifications, medication delivery and memory care. (Find a checklist of the standards at www.alfa.org.) According to Argentum, “typical” services include access to health care and medical services customized to specific needs, 24-hour emergency call systems for residents, three daily meals served in the dining area, housekeeping and laundry services, assistance with eating, bathing, dressing, toileting and walking as needed, as well as shuttle buses and exercise and wellness programs. Some assisted-living communities have specialized assistance for residents with dementia. It’s important to read the fine print of the contract, which outlines services, pricing, extra charges and staffing. Inquire about how much and what time help is available and the level of care. “There is a price for every package,” said Seal. Getting escorted to dining and See ASSISTED LIVING, page B-9

Right Size, Right Place Enjoy the Big Benefits of a Small Community The Woodlands fits your retirement perfectly. You actually get to know your neighbors here. You’re pampered with personal attention. And because we’re family-owned, you can always walk your ideas directly to our management. Your apartment home, however, is uncommonly large—as is our list of amenities. We’re brimming with all the perks you deserve, from our movie theater and heated pool to fabulous dining. Our convenient Fairfax location keeps you close to everything else. Stop by and try The Woodlands on for size. Call 703.667.9801 to arrange your visit.

4320 Forest Hill Drive Fairfax, Virginia 22030 www.thewoodlandsccrc.com

The Woodlands is part of a continuum of care.

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Housing Options

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6

Housing Notes By Barbara Ruben

Improve accessibility to earn property tax credits Montgomery County, Md.’s Design for Life program offers property tax credits to help offset the cost of making your home more accessible — from widening doorways, to installing no-step entryways or bathroom grab bars. “It’s really a program for all ages and

Assisted living From page B-8 back comes at a higher price than going on your own, for example, as does medication management. Make sure the facility conducts criminal background checks on employees. Also, inquire about employee turnover rates and the staff-to-resident ratio.

What will it cost? Like services and amenities, costs vary widely. The median monthly cost for a sin-

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stages,” said Jessica Fusillo, community outreach manager with the county’s Department of Permitting Services. “You can be younger and have an accident, or be a parent or grandparent with a stroller. Or you can be a senior with mobility issues. At any stage of life, having an accessible home is an advantage.” There are two programs within Design for Life. One is a list of nine possible changes, any of which can be made individually. Among the options are adding a ramp to the entrance, widening interior doors, installing an elevator or stair lift, and adding a walk-in or roll-in shower to a bathroom. Homeowners must incur a cost of at least $500 to file a claim for the credit. The credit is for up to 50 percent of eligible costs up to $2,500, meaning the maximum credit is for $1,250.

The other program focuses on more comprehensive home renovations for accessibility. Homeowners must complete all the changes for one of two types of renovations. One is making the house “VISITable” — meaning there is at least one no-step entrance to the house and accessibility continues within the house. There must be a useable powder or bathroom on the first floor, and interior doorways must be at least 32 inches wide (to accommodate wheelchairs). For these changes, a property tax credit of up to $3,000 is offered, although the maximum that can be applied in any tax year is $2,000 (the excess can be carried over to the next year) The other type of renovation, a step up from visitable, is making a house “LIVEable.” These houses have all the features of

visitable houses, but also need to have an accessible path from the front door to the kitchen, and an accessible bedroom and full bathroom. The tax credit for these renovations is $10,000. As with the visitable credit, only $2,000 can be applied in any one tax year, with the balance carried over. For more information, see http:// www.montgomerycountymd.gov/design or call (240) 777-6272.

gle, one-bedroom apartment in an assisted-care facility nationally runs $3,628 a month, according to the Genworth 2016 Cost of Care Survey. In the Washington, D.C., metro area where the Seniors live, the median runs $4,400 for one person. In the Baltimore area, it is $3,370. The Seniors will pay $10,000 a month for a spacious two-bedroom, two-bath apartment. “The facility will have a better-than-average caregiver-to-patient ratio,” said Senior, adding that his wife will get help getting out of bed, dressing and showering, and

managing medicines. “Dining will be restaurant-style. Eat when you like, no assigned tables,” said Senior. “At some facilities, you have an assigned seat and everyone gets served at the same time. I figured, hell, you don’t even have assigned seating in the Army.” Before you sign a contract, consider having an elder law attorney review it. Seal also stresses the importance of being honest upfront about the care needed or behaviors of a loved one, such as combative behavior. Be certain such issues are ad-

dressed in the care plan, rather than left as a potential cause for eviction. Finally, ask to review any complaints made to state agencies about the facility, as well as inspection reports. You can do some initial facility comparisons at alfa.org. Find your state’s ombudsman through the National Long-Term Care Ombudsman Resource Center at ltcombudsman.org. Baltimore County’s long-term care ombudsman can be reached at (410) 8874200. All contents © 2016 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by TCA, LCC.

CARE THAT LETS YOU LEAVE YOUR WORRIES BEHIND

2030 Westmoreland Street • Falls Church 703-531-0781 • www.chesterbrookres.org Coordinated Services Management, Inc. - Professional Management of Retirement Communities since 1981

The Crossings at Chantilly in Herndon, See HOUSING NOTES, page B-12

ARLEIGH BURKE PAVILION

Was it difficult to go on summer vacation because you were worried about mom? Did you notice that dad seemed less able to participate in his favorite activities? Are you concerned about the possibility of an emergency trip to the hospital? Don’t wait for a crisis to find the right community to meet mom or dad’s needs. Start with Chesterbrook Residences and discover how a smooth transition to assisted living can make all the difference for both of you. Call us today.

Assisted Living Community

New assisted and independent living opens in Va.

Keeping Your Family Ties Close

CALL 38 703-5 -2975

Located in idyllic McLean, Arleigh Burke Pavilion’s assisted living apartments offer all the luxurious comforts of home within a vibrant Life Plan Community. Enjoy the best of both worlds: the independence you’re accustomed to plus any help you may need with daily activities. Studio and one-bedroom apartments are now available. www. VinsonHall.org 1739 Kirby Road McLean, Virginia 22101

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CONTINUING CARE RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

INDEPENDENT & PERSONAL CARE COMMUNITIES

Knollwood 202-541-0149 or 1-800-541-4255

B’nai B’rith Homecrest House 301-244-3579

6200 Oregon Avenue NW Washington, DC 20015 www.armydistaﬀ.org

14508 Homecrest Road Silver Spring, MD 20906 www.homecresthouse.org

Knollwood is a military continuing care retirement community featuring modern independent living apartments ranging in size from 500 to 2700 sq.ft., assisted living apartments, skilled nursing and memory care. Situated on a 16-acre campus in Rock Creek Park, Knollwood is convenient to all D.C. has to offer. Outings to events and cultural venues, such as the Kennedy Center and National Mall, frequent daily trips to WRNMMC, and a committed activity staff enrich the lives of our residents. Providing service for over 50 years, Knollwood was built on the cornerstones of personal attention, superior care and camaraderie, values that have withstood the test of time. Call today to ask about our new Independent Living Plus option!

CONTINUING CARE RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

The Woodlands 703-667-9801 4320 Forest Hill Drive Fairfax, VA 22030 www.thewoodlandsccrc.com The Woodlands — a boutique luxury residence where you’ll know everyone by their first name — offers 102 spacious Independent Living apartments, and features an indoor swimming pool, fitness center, business center, theater, several dining venues, and a wooded site with walking paths. We offer our residents a fee-for-service Continuing Care contract, and a choice of two residency options: a 90% Refundable Entrance Fee or a Rental Program. We are owned and managed by The Bainum Healthcare Family, owners of Fairfax Rehabilitation and Nursing Center and The Gardens Assisted Living. For more information, call or visit us Monday to Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. or Saturday and Sunday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call 703-667-9801.

ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITY

Olney Assisted Living Memory Care by Design 16940 Georgia Avenue Olney, MD 20832 www.olneymemorycare.com A memory care specific community, Olney Assisted Living offers compassionate care in an environment designed specifically for those with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia. Design includes; interior “neighborhoods,” a central Town Center, and outdoor court yards. Daily life enrichment programming is provided with the goal of enhancing cognition, feelings of accomplishment, and quality of life. Licensed, on-site nursing care is provided 24 hours a day by a team of experienced professionals. Families seeking memory care will feel right at home in our community. For more information, call 301-570-0525 today.

Homecrest House is a non-profit, affordable, subsidized community offering two options: Independent & Personal Care Services. PERSONAL CARE offers: assistance with bathing, daily meals, weekly housekeeping & laundry services with optional medication administration. Homecrest is nestled on 10 beautiful acres & neighbors with Leisure World. Residents may qualify approximately 30% of their adjusted income for rent & may qualify for personal care subsidies. Homecrest offers a full array of amenities, activities & scheduled weekday van service. Call Maria at 301-244-3579 for a personalized tour or visit us at www.homecresthouse.org.

ASSISTED LIVING & MEMORY CARE

Tall Oaks Assisted Living 703-834-9800 12052 N. Shore Drive Reston, VA 20190 TallOaksAL.com

Tall Oaks Assisted Living has proudly served Reston and the Metropolitan DC area since 1991 by providing quality Assisted Living and Memory Care to seniors. From superb and delicious dining to engaging activity programming and 24-hour licensed nursing care, our goal is to exceed expectations in every aspect of community life. The friendliness and longevity of our leadership team gives families peace of mind knowing that their loved ones’ care is in experienced hands. Call Today to schedule your personal tour – new residents receive 25% off rent through the end of 2016.

INDEPENDENT LIVING COMMUNITY

Seabury at FRIENDSHIP TERRACE 202-244-7400 4201 Butterworth Place NW Washington, DC 20016 www.friendshipterrace.org Active, affordable senior living close to stores, restaurants, transportation and entertainment can be found at Seabury at Friendship Terrace! Located in a quiet, tree-lined northwest Washington neighborhood, Friendship Terrace is just two blocks from the Tenleytown Metro station. The community offers affordable senior living with subsidy assistance to those who are eligible, as well as exciting on-site events including performances, lectures, holiday observances, socials, and more. A rooftop deck, greenhouse, library, lounges, and a dining room overlooking an outdoor courtyard are highlights of the community. Call for your tour today!

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WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6

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FREE HOUSING AND OTHER INFORMATION For free information from advertisers in this special section, check off those that interest you and mail this entire coupon to the Beacon. Please do not request info if you are not interested. All replies will be entered into a random drawing to win tickets to Show Boat.

HOUSING COMMUNITIES:

❑ Riderwood . . . . . . . .B-5 & B-19 ❑ Springvale Terrace . .B-6 & B-19 ❑ Victory Terrace . . . . . . . . . . .B-2

WASHINGTON, DC ❑ Friendship Terrace . .B-6 & B-10 ❑ Knollwood . . . . . . .B-10 & B-17

MARYLAND ❑ The Bonifant at Silver Spring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B-7 & B-18 ❑ Brooke Grove . .B-7, B-14 & B-20 ❑ Covenant Village . .B-12 & B-19 ❑ Emerson House . . . . . . . . .B-12 ❑ Homecrest House . .B-10 & B-12 ❑ Mrs. Philippines Home . . . .B-12 ❑ Olney Assisted Living B-10 & B-13

VIRGINIA ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑

Almost Home Senior Living . .B-3 Arleigh Burke Pavilion . . . . .B-9 Ashby Ponds . . . . . .B-5 & B-15 Chancellor’s Village .B-7 & B-17 Chesterbrook Residences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B-9 & B-19 Crystal Square Apts. . . . . . . .B-3 Culpepper Gardens . . . . . . . .B-2 Fairfax, The . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B-4 Great Falls Assisted Living . . . . . . . . . . . .B-5 & B-15

❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑

Greenspring . . . . . . . .B-5 & B-7 Gum Springs Glen . . . . . . .B-12 Herndon Harbor House . . . .B-12 Morris Glen . . . . . . . . . . . .B-12 Potomac Place . . . . . . . . . . .B-5 Shenandoah . . . . . .B-2 & B-15 Tall Oaks . . . . . . . .B-10 & B-18 Tribute at the Glen .B-14 & B-15 Vinson Hall . . . . . . . . . . . .B-15 Wingler House . . . . . . . . . .B-12 The Woodlands . . . . .B-8 & B-10

HOMECARE: ❑ Best Senior Care . . . . . . . . .B-4 ❑ Home Care Assistance . . . . . . . . .B-3 & B-7

Check the boxes you’re interested in and return this entire coupon to: The Beacon, P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915-2227. You may also include the free info coupon on page 5. One entry per household please. Name __________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Address ____________________________________________________E-mail_______________________________________________ City _______________________________________________________ State ______________________ Zip ____________________ Phone (day) _______________________________________________ (eve) ________________________________________________ Please provide your telephone number and e-mail address so we may contact you promptly if you win the drawing.

WB10/16

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O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Affordable Senior Communities Discover how great senior living is at one of our affordable apartment communities. Many of our communities feature 24-hour emergency maintenance, full activities programs, spacious floor plans, affordable rents, caring and dedicated staff, and much more. We are conveniently located near shopping, including grocery stores and pharmacies. Let us help you live life to the fullest. Call or visit our web site to view these communities: 600 North Madison Street, Arlington, VA 22203

Rent based on income

703-538-6000 Lockwood House 7010 Schoonmaker Court Alexandria, VA 22310

From $876

703-719-7268

873 Grace Street Herndon, VA 20170

From $930

703-904-9444

20900 Runny Meade Terrace Ashburn, VA 20147

703-858-9507

From $921

Wingler House Apartments

7837 Richmond Highway Alexandria, VA 22306

From $966

703-780-9072

5999 Emerson Street Bladensburg, MD 20710

301-779-6196

18889 Waring Station Road Germantown, MD 20874

301-540-1162

Rent based on income

From $1,015 for 2 bedroom

5101 River Road, Suite 101 • Bethesda, MD 20816

301-941-8040 www.qpmgmt.com Professionally managed by Quantum Real Estate Management LLC T/A Quantum Property Management

Housing notes From page B-9 Va., opened this summer. Its continuum of care includes independent living, assisted living and Harmony Square, a memory care neighborhood. The community includes one- and two-bedroom apartments, some with balconies, a theater, pub, onsite fitness center, library/computer lab and barber/beauty shop. Onsite physical, occupational and speech therapies, daily housekeeping, and weekly laundry service is included in the rent for assisted living residents. For more information and prices, call (703) 994-4561 or see www.thecrossingsatchantilly.com.

Home care for Holocaust survivors The Family & Nursing Care Foundation, a fund of the Community Foundation for Montgomery County, recently issued a $10,000 grant to the Jewish Social Service Agency (JSSA) to provide in-home care services to at-risk, aging Holocaust survivors in Montgomery and Prince George’s Counties in Maryland and in Washington, D.C. The grant will be used to provide approximately 460 hours of in-home, handson care so that these survivors can continue to age in place. Services will be provided by Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) and Certified Medication Technicians (CMT), and will include help with bathing, dressing, toileting, grooming, mobility, medication monitoring and general companionship. “For years, I have admired JSSA as an organization; this admiration only grew as I discovered more about their Holocaust Sur-

vivors Program,” said Sandy Kursban, founder of Family & Nursing Care, Inc. and the Family & Nursing Care Foundation. When “Elie Wiesel, Holocaust survivor and Nobel Laureate, passed, I think this brought much-needed attention to the fact that these survivors are now in their 80s and beyond — and are struggling with how to spend the final chapter of their lives. Everyone deserves the opportunity to age in place according to their wishes, but especially this specific population, who has already been through so much,” Kursban said. For more information about the Holocaust Survivor’s Program or JSSA, contact Kitty Wojcik, grant manager, at (301) 610-8410 or by email at kwojcik@jssa.org. For more information about the Family & Nursing Care Foundation, contact Sandy Kursban, Founder, at (301) 588-8200 or by email at skursban@familynursingcare.com.

Loving Arms becomes Shenandoah Senior Living Loving Arms assisted living in Front Royal, Va., has changed its name to Shenandoah Senior Living. The community has private and companion apartments, some with kitchenettes, an onsite beauty salon and barber shop, housekeeping and linen service. Activities include fitness, music, lectures, book clubs, religious services, gardening and cooking. Meals are provided in a dining room. Shenandoah Senior Living also offers medication management, skilled nursing, physical therapy and hospice care. For more information, call (540) 6357923.

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Housing Options

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6

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How to find and hire a reliable handyman Dear Savvy Senior: Whatever type of work you need, the best What’s the best way to find a good way to find it is through referrals from people handyman or tradesman to you trust. If your friends or famdo some work around the ily don’t have any recommendahouse? I’ve had some bad tions, turn to professionals in luck lately with unprofessionthe field, such as local hardware al workers who do shoddy or home improvement stores, work and charge too much. or real estate agents. — Frustrated Senior In this area, the publication Dear Frustrated: Washington Consumers’ CheckHiring a good home repair book, www.checkbook.org/ handyman can be a bit of a washington-area, offers concrapshoot. How do you find sumer-generated reviews on someone who will return SAVVY SENIOR myriad local services. your calls, show up on time, By Jim Miller The Internet can also help. do the job right, and finish it, all at a fair price? Here are some tips that can help.

Who to call While it may seem obvious, who you call on for help will depend on what you need done. If, for example, you have a small home repair or improvement project that doesn’t require a lot of technical expertise, a handyman may be all you need. But if you have a job that involves electricity, plumbing, or heating or cooling systems, you’re better off going with a licensed tradesman. Bigger jobs like home renovations or remodeling may require a general contractor.

If you are a member of a neighborhood online list serve, you can also get recommendations there. Websites like www.HomeAdvisor.com can put you in touch with prescreened, customer-rated service professionals in your area for free. Or try www.AngiesList.com, a membership service that will connect you with contractors and service companies with various types of expertise. Sites like these provide ratings and reviews of local professionals who’ve done work for other members in your area, plus details about the type of work they’ve done, prices, professionalism and timeliness. Angie’s List offers an upgraded silver or gold membership for $25 or $100 per year,

respectively, which offer discounts, a magazine, complaint resolutions and more. Another option for finding handyman services is through a local or national service company like www.MrHandyman. com, www.HouseDoctors.com, or www.Ha ndymanConnection.com. You’ll probably pay more going through a company than you would with an independent handyman, but service companies typically promise professional workers who are screened, licensed, bonded and insured. To find local handyman services in your community, check your yellow pages or go to any Internet search engine and type in “handyman” plus your city and state.

Vet candidates, get estimates Once you’ve located a few candidates, your next step is to get written estimates that list the materials, costs and details of the project. It’s a good idea to get at least three estimates from different sources to be sure you’re getting a fair deal. Before hiring someone, check out his or

her work history with your state consumer protection agency (go to usa.gov/stateconsumer for a list) and the Better Business Bureau (bbb.org/council). You can also search the Web using the company or individual’s name and such words as “reviews” and “complaints.” You also need to find out if your candidates have an approved contractor or tradesman license. Using an unlicensed worker in a state that requires a license is dangerous — you’ll have little legal recourse if the job goes bad. Virginia, Maryland and the District of Columbia all require licenses for various types of work. To find out which jobs need licenses in your state, visit www.contractors-license.org.) Contractorcheck.com is another good resource for researching local contractors. Also, ask to see their proof of insurance, which covers any damages they may cause while working on your home, and ask for several references from past jobs — and check them.

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Ask The Expert

New Perspectives on Dementia: A Panel Discussion

Free Educational Event

Join our Expert Panel as we explore the strategies, research, care, and services available to improve the quality of care and quality of life for persons with dementia, their family members, and caregivers. This interactive presentation will !!"#$$%# "&'%(!#)*(+(, *(-).%/" ()%0# &*0.%1" ,*(, &%,0 &&#)2#$3$-&4*(-)$.% )!%*0#%)#5#$*%"#$# ",06%70#%1"#$#)* *(-)% will be followed by a book signing by Dr. Mansbach and Jodi Lyons.

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O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Stand up for your rights under Medicare By Eleanor Laise Home health coverage can be a crucial benefit for Medicare beneficiaries who have just been discharged from the hospital or who struggle with a chronic condition and have difficulty leaving home. But taking advantage of this benefit can be a real challenge. Medicare covers in-home services, including skilled nursing and physical therapy. For eligible patients, there’s generally no charge, and no limit on how long they can receive the benefit.

The problem, patient advocates say, is that the eligibility requirements are often misunderstood both by patients and providers. Medicare’s requirement that patients be homebound, for example, is sometimes wrongly interpreted as meaning that an individual who occasionally leaves home can’t qualify. Confusion over the rules means that some patients never seek care because they mistakenly believe they won’t qualify, while others are wrongfully denied care or see their services terminated prematurely,

BEACON BITS

Oct. 20+

LOW VISION SEMINARS The Prevention of Blindness Society presents two low vision semi-

nars. The first, from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 20, features retina and macula expert Dr. Richard A. Garfinkel speaking about advances in detecting wet and dry macular degeneration at Friendship Heights Village Center, 4433 South Park Ave., Chevy Chase, Md. Then on Saturday, Oct. 22, from 10 a.m. to noon, Dr. Suleiman Alibhai, director of POB’s low vision learning center, as well as Dr. Wendy Gasch and optometrist Stephanie Chen will discuss POB’s new services and resources, and answer questions. This event includes a complimentary light breakfast and will take place in conference room 2 at Sibley Medical Building, located at 5215 Loughboro Rd. NW, Washington, D.C. For more information or to register, visit www.youreyes.org or call (202) 364-7602.

Experience Assisted Living Like You’ve Never Seen Before!

critics say. “There’s a lot of subjectivity in some of the rules” governing home health benefits, said Casey Schwarz, senior counsel for education and federal policy at the Medicare Rights Center, an advocacy group.

Who qualifies? About 3.5 million people received Medicare home health services in 2014, according to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. To qualify, you must need part-time skilled nursing, physical or occupational therapy, or speech-language pathology. The services must be provided by a Medicare-certified home health agency, under a care plan established by your doctor. The final requirement: A doctor must certify that you’re homebound. But this isn’t as restrictive as many people assume. To be homebound under Medicare’s rules, your illness or injury must cause you to have trouble leaving your home without help — such as using a walker or special transportation — or leaving home must be difficult and medically unadvisable because of your condition. Occasionally attending religious services, visiting the doctor’s office or going to adult day care doesn’t mean that you can’t qualify as homebound. Sometimes people think homebound means they have to be bedbound. Not true, said Melissa Simpson, senior program manager at the National Council on Aging’s Center for Benefits Access. Some Medicare Advantage plans waive the homebound requirement altogether.

What to do if you are denied Your home healthcare should continue as long as you meet the eligibility requirements. In some cases, patients services are cut off because their condition is not improving. But the rules have never demanded that a patient’s condition improve, For families needing Assisted Living and Memory Care, with an enriching quality of life. Care is at the Core of Tribute communities. Imagine the peace of mind you’ll feel knowing your senior family member is getting professional care in a community of such unbelievable beauty, luxury, and comfort. Tribute residents live Connected, Active, and Purposeful lives. Throughout the community they can socialize, be active, or pursue personal interests. Tribute’s advanced Memory Care programming focuses on serving and connecting with seniors living with memory impairment. Tour Tribute and experience Assisted Living Like You’ve Never Seen Before!SM

Assisted Living | Memory Care

571-402-6244 Woodbridge, VA 22192 TributeAtTheGlen.com Hello@TributeAtTheGlen.com

said Diane Omdahl, president of 65 Incorporated, a firm that helps seniors navigate Medicare. In 2011, Medicare beneficiaries filed a nationwide class action lawsuit claiming that providers were inappropriately applying an improvement standard, and the 2013 settlement of that case clarified that patients should be able to get care to maintain their condition or even slow their decline. Yet the misperception persists, said Michael Benvenuto, director of the elderlaw project at Vermont Legal Aid, which represented the plaintiffs in the case. If you think your home healthcare is being wrongfully denied or cut off prematurely, you can file an appeal. When a home health agency suspends care, it should give you a written notice that includes the rationale for ending care, as well as contact information for a Quality Improvement Organization — the group of health-quality experts that will review your appeal. You can get free help with your appeal — or simply with navigating the home healthcare benefit — by contacting your State Health Insurance Assistance Program. See http://aging.maryland.gov/Pages/StateHealthInsuranceProgram.aspx or call your local SHIP office: Alexandria: (703) 746-5999 Arlington: (703) 228-1700 DC: (202) 994-6272 Fairfax: (703) 324-5851, TTY 711 Montgomery County: (301) 590-2819 Prince George’s County: (301) 265-8471, (301) 265-8450 The Center for Medicare Advocacy offers detailed instructions for appealing home healthcare denials. To find Medicare-certified agencies in your area, go to medicare.gov/homehealthcompare. All contents © 2016 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

ASSISTED LIVING & MEMORY CARE

Brooke Grove Retirement Village 301-260-2320 18100 Slade School Road Sandy Spring, MD 20860 www.bfg.org This community hums with warm-hearted camaraderie and a zest for life shared by residents and staff alike. Experience all that makes assisted living at Brooke Grove extraordinary. Cozy, homelike dwellings with easy access to beautiful courtyards and walking paths. Caring staff trained in using memory support techniques, building independence and lifting self-esteem. Innovative LIFE® Enrichment Programming with meaningful activities and off-site adventures. Visit us to see why Brooke Grove Retirement Village is one of the most sought-after continuing care retirement communities in the state. Living here is simply different … because what surrounds you really matters.

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Housing Options

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6

CONTINUING CARE RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

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ASSISTED LIVING/MEMORY CARE

Vinson Hall Retirement Community 703-536-4344

Great Falls Assisted Living 703-421-0690

6251 Old Dominion Drive McLean, VA 22101 www.vinsonhall.org

1121 Reston Avenue Herndon, VA 20170

Vinson Hall Retirement Community features independent living, assisted living, nursing and memory care, which allow our residents and their family to enjoy peace of mind knowing that our continuum of care can accommodate changing needs. Our independent living is open to commissioned military officers and their immediate family. We are now accepting federal employees GS-14 and above from select government agencies. All are welcome at Arleigh Burke Pavilion, where we provide assisted living, skilled nursing, and private pay nursing care services; and at The Sylvestery Memory Care, where we offer assisted living care for those with memory impairment or other forms of dementia.

Imagine a memory care specific community with open spaces, walking paths, and a family feel. Add security, an experienced team, and 24/7 licensed nursing care. Top it off with robust programming, outings, and activities tailored to the individual and you have Great Falls Assisted Living! Our mission is to promote independence and dignity for residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementia. This commitment is reflected in the design of our community and through everything we do. A family member recently said, “Great Falls has been wonderful. I no longer feel alone in caring for my dad, I feel like I have a team with me now.” Schedule your tour today and experience the feeling for yourself.

ASSISTED LIVING

Shenandoah Senior Living 540-635-7923 103 Lee Burke Road Front Royal, VA 22630 aﬃnitylivinggroup.com/community/shenandoah-senior-living At Shenandoah Senior Living each member of our community enjoys the opportunity to ‘live life their way’. Residents enjoy assistance when required and freedom when desired. We have companion and private room accommodations, apartments w/kitchen, full size refrigerator and microwave, as well as handicapped accessible bathrooms and 24/7 emergency call system. Also, we feature on site beauty salon &barber shop, 3 meals & snacks are provided and transportation. We have a comprehensive activities and social program, Wifi & full service housekeeping. A house physician, podiatrist, lab service & eye exams are available and PT/OT 5 days a week.

INDEPENDENT LIVING

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

ASSISTED LIVING/MEMORY CARE

Tribute At The Glen 571-402-6244 4151 Old Bridge Road Woodbridge, VA 22192 www.TributeAtThe Glen.com Looking for an assisted living & memory care community in Prince William County? You don't have to look any further. Experience a level of luxury in senior living, featuring advanced care systems for accurate and accountable care. An excellent quality of life is an essential feature of our community. We have a director of excitement whose only job is to keep residents anticipating what activity tomorrow will bring. Whether it's activities on the third floor open-air terrace or adventures on the luxury motor coach, residents stay active in meaningful pastimes. Call to schedule your exclusive hard hat tour to learn more today!

CONTINUING CARE RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

Ashby Ponds 1-800-564-0155 21170 Ashby Ponds Boulevard Ashburn, VA 20147 EricksonLiving.com Get the facts about active retirement living at Ashby Ponds. All in one fantastic FREE brochure. The comprehensive Ashby Ponds brochure is packed with the crucial information you need—and the exciting details you want— about carefree senior living. Ashby Ponds is Ashburn’s premier continuing care retirement community, designed exclusively for seniors 62-plus who want an independent retirement lifestyle with peace of mind for the future. Don’t spend another moment without the facts about vibrant retirement living at Ashby Ponds. Call 1-877-664-5445 or visit ericksonliving.com today to request your FREE brochure today!

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O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Introducing The new and revolutionary

Jacuzzi Hydrotherapy Shower. ®

AGING = PAIN For many, arthritis and spinal disc degeneration are the most common source of pain, along with hips, knees, shoulders and the neck. In designing the Jacuzzi Hydrotherapy Shower, we worked with expert physicians to maximize its pain relieving therapy by utilizing the correct level of water pressure to provide gentle yet effective hydrotherapy.

JACUZZI® SHOWER = RELIEF Four Jacuzzi® ShowerPro™ Jets focus on the neck, back, hips, knees and may help ease the pain and discomfort of:

The Jacuzzi Hydrotherapy Shower provides a lifetime of comfort and relief… safely and affordably. As we age, the occasional aches and pains of everyday life become less and less occasional. Most of us are bothered by sore muscles, creaky joints and general fatigue as we go through the day- and it’s made worse by everything from exertion and stress to arthritis and a number of other ailments. Sure, there are pills and creams that claim to provide comfort, but there is only one 100% natural way to feel better… hydrotherapy. Now, the world leader in hydrotherapy has invented the only shower that features Jacuzzi® Jets. It’s called the Jacuzzi® Hydrotherapy Shower, and it can truly change your life.

• Arthritis • Circulation Issues • Aches and pains

For over 50 years, the Jacuzzi® Design Engineers have worked to bring the powerful benefits of soothing hydrotherapy into millions of homes. Now, they’ve created a system that can fit in the space of your existing bathtub or shower and give you a lifetime of enjoyment, comfort and pain-relief. They’ve thought of everything. From the high-gloss acrylic surface, slip-resistant flooring, a hand-held shower wand, a comfortable and adjustable seat, to strategically-placed grab bars and lots of storage, this shower has it all. Why wait to experience the Jacuzzi ® Hydrotherapy Shower? Call now… it’s the first step in getting relief from those aches and pains.

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WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6

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Take these steps to prevent falls at home By Jim Miller Dear Savvy Senior: My 79-year-old mother, who lives alone, has fallen several times over the past year. Are there any extra precautions we should take that can help prevent this? — Worried Daughter Dear Worried: Falls are a big concern for many older persons and their families. Each year, nearly one-third of older Americans fall, making it the leading cause of both fatal and nonfatal injuries for those age 65 and older. But many falls can be prevented. Depending on what’s causing your mom to fall, here are some different tips that can help protect her.

Review her medications Does your mom take any medicine, or combination of medicines, that make her dizzy, sleepy or lightheaded? If so, gather up all the drugs she takes — prescriptions and over-the-counter — and take them to her doctor or pharmacist for a drug review and adjustment.

Get her vision checked Poor vision can be another contributor to falls, so get your mom’s eyes checked every year. She may be wearing the wrong glasses, or have developed a condition (such as glaucoma or cataracts) that make it harder to see obstacles on the floor.

Choose safe footwear Modify your home

Encourage exercise Weak leg muscles and poor balance are two of the biggest risk factors that cause people to fall. Tai chi, walking, water aerobics and strength training are all good for improving balance and strength, as are a number of simple balance exercises that she can do anytime — like standing on one foot for 30 seconds then switching to the other foot, and walking heel-to-toe across the room. For additional balance and leg strengthening exercises, the National Institute on Aging offers free exercise guides and a DVD that you can order at Go4Life.nia.nih.gov.

floor of the tub or shower. Have a carpenter install grab bars in and around the tub/shower for support. Also, make sure the lighting throughout the house is good, purchase some inexpensive plug-in nightlights for the bathrooms and hallways, and if she has stairs, put handrails on both sides. For more tips, call the Eldercare Locater at 1-800-677-1116 and order a free copy of their “Preventing Falls at Home” brochure. Or get an occupational therapist to come in and assess your mom’s home for fall risks. Medicare will pay for this service if prescribed by a doctor.

Your mom should be aware that going

barefoot or wearing slippers or socks at home can also cause falls, as can wearing backless shoes, high heels, and shoes with smooth leather soles. The safest option are rubber-soled, low-heeled shoes.

Purchase some helpful aids If your mom needs some help, talk to her doctor or a physical therapist about getting her fit for a cane or walker. Also, to help ensure your mom’s safety, and provide you some peace of mind, get her a medical alert device. Send your questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book.

There are also a number of simple household modifications you can do to make your mom’s living area safer. Start by arranging or moving the furniture so there are clear pathways to walk through, and by picking up items on the floor that could cause her to trip, such as newspapers, shoes, clothes, and electrical or phone cords. If she has throw rugs, remove them or use double-sided tape to secure them. In the bathroom buy some non-skid rugs for the floors and a rubber suctiongrip mat or adhesive non-skid tape for the

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How to rent your home for fun and profit By Miriam Cross Beth Everett and her husband, Glenn, built a cottage in their backyard in 2014 for their son Jordan to live in when he’s home from college. But while the studio sits empty, visitors to Portland, Ore., can rent the cozy space through Airbnb for $99 a night. Fox Lair, as it’s known, offers heated floors, a small sitting area decked out with guitars and bongos, and plenty of eclectic artwork. Everett estimates that in 2015 they earned about $9,000 from a steady stream of visitors, which she used to help pay for editing and cover designs for her self-published books, the Lee Harding mystery series. “It was the easiest money I ever made,” she said. “And it was fun.” Airbnb wasn’t the first website to help owners, or “hosts,” rent out their homes directly to travelers. But the rental site has made it easy for anyone, in any city, to offer up a couch, a spare room, an in-law suite or the entire house for a short-term rental, generally defined as fewer than 30 days. “You don’t have to have a six-bedroom house in Florida,” said Joseph DiTomaso, CEO of AllTheRooms.com, a search engine that aggregates both traditional accommodations and short-term rentals. “You can rent out a room while you’re traveling for a week and make money to pay for your trip.”

A plethora of websites compete with Airbnb. The sites typically charge a service fee of at least 3 percent of the rent (and sometimes substantially more), but some lend a hand with the marketing, take care of collecting taxes in some locations, and offer insurance. Airbnb, along with other sites, collects payments from your guests and deducts fees and sometimes taxes before sending the rest to you. Third-party services, including Guesty, Pillow and Proprly, offer to help make your gig as a landlord easier by managing your listings, delivering keys to guests, cleaning your place and more, often for a small percentage of the rental income.

Navigate the rules Start by checking with your homeowners association, condo or co-op board (or landlord, if you’re a renter) to see if shortterm rentals are allowed and under what conditions. Your city or county may also have restrictions, but in many jurisdictions, laws that apply are rarely enforced — or they haven’t been updated to address sharingeconomy rentals. Several cities have made changes to deal with the new realities of home sharing. Last year, for example, San Francisco passed a law allowing rentals of fewer than

30 nights by residents who follow a set of strict rules. In New York City, rentals of fewer than 30 days are legal in apartment buildings if the host is there. Your city may charge a registration fee, require you to secure city permits and business licenses, and enforce zoning rules that may prohibit short-term rentals. Sometimes that sounds more intimidating than it actually is. In Portland, where Everett lives, you’re allowed to rent out part of your primary residence as long as you register with the city and jump through a few hoops, such as notifying your neighbors and keeping a log of your guests. And you may have to undergo an inspection to ensure your rental meets safety standards. Right now, laws governing short-term rentals tend to be enforced only if the neighbors complain because, say, your guests throw a raucous party. But that may be changing. “I am seeing increasing oversight and enforcement of short-term rental ordinances, particularly for tax collection and code enforcement,” said Paula E. Meyer, a real estate lawyer. If you flout the rules and get caught, the extra bucks you make could be gobbled up by fines and other penalties. Vacation rental websites generally take a hands-off approach to local laws, leaving it to you to work out the legalities of subletting your home. Your city council or local government website is the best place to start your research. Airbnb also has summaries and links for about 50 U.S. cities on its “Responsible Hosting” page.

Figure the taxes Whether you’re renting out your couch or an entire villa, your guests usually have to pay taxes to the city, county or state — and sometimes all three. The taxes go by

different names: sales, lodging, occupancy or hotel taxes. Some rental services, including Airbnb and FlipKey by TripAdvisor, automatically deduct and pay these taxes for you in locations that have agreements with the services. That’s one reason Everett prefers Airbnb over VRBO, a website on which she used to list her cottage. The city and county split an 11.5 percent “transient lodging” tax, and the state takes another 1 percent. If you list with a site that doesn’t take care of taxes for you, services such as Avalara MyLodge Tax can help you calculate what you owe. Avalara charges about $150 a year to file taxes on your behalf, but the amount changes depending on how many monthly or quarterly returns your city and county require. Unless you rent out your home for 14 or fewer days a year — say, when a big convention comes to town — you’ll owe income tax on your rental income, too. Airbnb collects payment from your guests before sending it to you, and may send you a 1099 form at tax time if your income and reservations exceed a certain amount. Regardless of whether you get a 1099 form, report your rental income on Schedule E of your Form 1040 (your state and city will probably want to know about your rental income, too). You can deduct costs directly related to your rental, such as the state and local taxes you pay, advertising expenses, and even new sheets and towels. You can also deduct a portion of expenses that you pay for your entire home, such as utilities and potentially homeowners insurance. Consult IRS Publication 527, Residential Rental Property (Including Rental of VacaSee RENT YOUR HOME, page B-19

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Rent your home From page B-18 tion Homes), for more details.

Check your insurance You want to be protected if a guest steals something or suffers an injury and holds you liable. And if a guest starts a fire or causes water damage, you want to be sure your insurance will pay for repairs. Tell your insurer how often you rent and whether you live in the home simultaneously; insurers might see it as a plus if you’re there when renters are. Your homeowners insurer might be fine covering the occasional paying guest, said Jeanne Salvatore, of the Insurance Information Institute — but get that approval in writing. Or your agent might advise you to switch to a “dwelling fire” policy, which typically costs about 25 percent more than homeowners insurance, to account for the extra risk you take on as a host. To add liability protection, Spencer Houldin, president of Ericson Insurance Advisors, recommends an umbrella policy of at least $1 million, which typically costs $150 to $200 per year. Take simple precautions as well, such as concealing valuables. And be clear about your house rules to cut down on incidents that wouldn’t trigger an insurance claim but would still hurt your wallet. A few bad experiences prompted Everett to impose some restrictions. For example, she instituted a no-guests policy when renters invited guests who drank too much and trashed her place. Airbnb includes coverage for liability and property damage, up to $1 million each. Other rental sites sell or include insurance as well. Whether you choose to rely on this coverage depends on how comfortable you are trusting your home to an insurer you may not know much about. “It’s a good backup, but don’t rely on it,” said Houldin. “I would much prefer to work with my own insurance company.” Also, if you list your home on multiple

websites, you need coverage that will apply to all guests. Everett priced a couple of commercial policies, but the premiums were more than double her homeowners insurance. For now, she is sticking with Airbnb’s coverage. Everett said she loves getting texts alerting her to new bookings. She often brightens up the rental with fresh flowers, and hands out coupons for free beer at her favorite restaurant. “You get really lovely people whom you want to keep in touch with forever,” she said.

The big three sharing sites The sites below are the best-known home-sharing economy services. Other smaller or specialty sites include HouseTrip, Kid & Coe, Onefinestay, Rent Like a Champion, Roomorama and Wimdu. Airbnb. Rents out private rooms or entire structures. The service fee is 3 percent per booking. Airbnb holds payments from guests until after check-in and collects and pays occupancy taxes in certain cities. Property and liability coverage are included at no extra charge. Hosts can impose a security deposit as well. HomeAway. The site, which also owns VRBO, rents out entire structures only. The service fee starts at 8 percent per booking, or owners can pay a $349 annual fee instead. Homeowners can buy tailored vacation-rental insurance called HomeAway Assure. There is no assistance with taxes. Hosts can impose a security deposit. FlipKey by TripAdvisor. FlipKey lets you rent out private rooms or entire structures. The service fee is 3 percent per booking, or owners can pay an annual fee that starts at $399. The site holds payments from guests until after check-in. TripAdvisor, which owns other sites as well, collects and pays occupancy taxes in certain cities. No insurance products are available. Hosts can impose a security deposit. All contents © 2016 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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Money Law &

INVEST LIKE WARREN BUFFET Buffet holds Verizon, Sanofi and General Motors for dividends and value KNOW THYSELF How to describe your skills so they can help you get the job you want TRADE IN YOUR ANNUITY How to exchange an unwanted annuity for another while deferring taxes SKYROCKETING PREMIUMS Long-term care insurance costs are rising for many. What you can do

Preferred stocks yielding 6 percent plus By Daren Fonda An aura of income is all it takes to lure investors to dividend-paying stocks these days. But if payouts on common stocks don’t hold much appeal to you, consider a company’s preferred shares. Even with their prices hitting 52-week highs, many high-quality preferreds still yield 5 percent or more. These stocks may not have much potential for gains after running up in price this year. But they should still generate more income than many other yield-oriented investments, including government bonds (1.5 percent for 10-year Treasuries), property-owning real estate investment trusts (an average of 3.6 percent) and utilities (3.4 percent). Preferreds straddle the gap between stocks and bonds. Like stocks, they trade on exchanges. And like bonds, they make regular, though fixed, payments to investors. But bonds pay interest, while preferreds pay dividends, typically every three

months. Many preferreds pay so-called qualified dividend, which can be a tax benefit: The top federal tax rate on those payouts is 15 percent, compared with a top rate of 43.4 percent on interest income.

Some risks Companies typically issue preferreds at $25 per share. Prices may drift above or below that level, typically moving up as interest rates fall and moving down when rates rise. Critically, companies can “call,” or redeem, their preferred stock at $25 per share at a specified date in the future or, in some cases, at any time. So paying close to $25 for a preferred stock gives you some assurance that if a company does redeem the stock, you won’t lose much of your initial investment. But be careful not to buy a preferred well above $25 a few months before its initial call date. Doing so could saddle you with losses, even after accounting for dividend income.

Companies may also have some leeway to suspend dividend payments. If a preferred is “cumulative,” the firm must eventually shell out any dividends it didn’t pay. But many preferreds are “non-cumulative:” If a company runs into financial trouble and suspends payments, it isn’t required to make good on the missed disbursements at a later date. Preferreds have other risks, too. They aren’t as stable as high-quality corporate bonds, and that can sting in the event of a market panic. In 2008, for instance, iShares U.S. Preferred Stock (symbol PFF, $40.04, yield 5.4 percent), an exchange-traded fund, posted a total return of -24 percent, after accounting for dividend payments. (Prices and yields are as of August 22.) Today’s high prices have pushed yields down, providing less of a safety net if the market takes a tumble. In such a pricey environment, it’s important to stick with

high-quality preferreds, which are likely to hold up better than lower-quality preferreds during a selloff, said Michael Greco, chief investment officer of GCI Financial Group, a money-management firm. Because preferred dividends are fixed, the stocks would also slump if interest rates were to rise. A preferred trading at $27, for instance, could drop to $22 if the yield on the benchmark 10-year Treasury bond were to climb to 2.5 percent. However, most experts don’t see a big rise in bond yields anytime soon. On the other hand, interest rates could spike if inflation becomes more of a concern down the road.

Stocks to consider For access to a diverse package of stocks, consider the iShares preferred ETF. It holds more than 280 preferreds isSee PREFERRED STOCKS, page 32

Stocks with rising dividends for 50 years By Wayne Duggan There’s no question that dividends can be a powerful part of any long-term investor’s portfolio. There are very few things that are guaranteed in the investing world, but the best dividend stocks always come through for shareholders quarter after quarter. The biggest concern for investors searching for dividend stocks is that a company will cut its dividend at the first sign of financial hardship. As impressive as is for companies to maintain its dividends through thick and thin, some companies kick dividend reliability up a notch higher. Remarkably, a handful of blue-chip dividend stocks have an impeccable track record of more than 50 consecutive years of dividend hikes. That’s right, the Vietnam War, stagflation, two oil booms and busts, the Dot Com Bubble and the worst financial crisis since the Great Depression have come and gone, and these five dividend stocks have upped their payouts in each of the last 50 years.

Johnson & Johnson Johnson & Johnson (JNJ) owns popular brands like Motrin, Tylenol, Benadryl, Band-Aid and Listerine. The dividend

stock currently yields 2.6 percent after an incredible 54 consecutive years of dividend hikes. JNJ stock issued its most recent dividend hike in May, when its quarterly payment climbed from $0.75 to $0.80. In the last 50 years, the S&P 500 has produced a total return of 1,880 percent. In that same time, JNJ’s total return is a staggering 4,800 percent. In recent years, the dividend stock has shown no signs of slowing down. JNJ’s total return in the last decade is 94 percent, significantly greater than the S&P 500’s return of 70 percent.

The Coca-Cola Co. Not to be outdone, The Coca-Cola Co. (KO) stock has its own streak of 54 years of consecutive dividend hikes. In addition to Coca-Cola Classic, KO owns 19 other billion-dollar drink brands, including Dasani, Sprite, Powerade and Minute Maid. KO’s current yield is 3.2 percent, including its most recent quarterly dividend hike from $0.33 to $0.35 in March. KO stock has returned 3,050 percent in the past 50 years and 99 percent in the last 10 years. The company’s remarkable consistency

has even caught the eye of Warren Buffett, one of the dividend stock’s largest investors.

produced a total return of 1,760 percent. Even after that impressive run, MMM is one of the top dividend stocks in the market in 2016, up 18 percent year-to-date.

Lowe’s Companies, Inc. When Lowe’s Companies, Inc. (LOW) stock upped its quarterly dividend from $0.28 to $0.35 in July, it marked the company’s 53rd consecutive year of higher dividends. Today, LOW yields 1.7 percent. In the past 50 years, LOW stock has been one of the top performers in the market, producing a total return of 15,980 percent. Over the last decade, the dividend stock has returned 195 percent. Remarkably, LOW’s net income is down 18 percent in the last decade, but the company has reduced its share count via buyouts by about 5 percent per year in that time.

3M Co. 3M Co. (MMM) was founded 114 years ago, and it has upped its dividend payment for each of the last 58 years. MMM recently upped its dividend from $1.025 to $1.11 in February. The stock currently yields 2.5 percent. In the past 50 years, MMM stock has

Procter & Gamble Co. All of the stocks mentioned above have impressive histories of dividend hikes. However, Procter & Gamble Co. (PG) is the only stock among the group that currently has a streak of 60 consecutive years of dividend hikes. PG is the owner of household brands like Crest, Tide, Pampers, Head & Shoulders and Gillette. The stock’s most recent dividend hike came in April when it upped its quarterly payment from $0.6629 to $0.6695. PG has been one of the superstar dividend stocks of the last 50 years and has produced a total return of 2,710 percent in that time. This article is by Wayne Duggan of InvestorPlace. As of this writing, he did not hold a position in any of the aforementioned securities. All contents © 2016 the Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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Preferred stocks From page 31 sued mainly by banks, real estate firms and insurance companies. Most of these firms carry investment-grade ratings, although the ETF does own some with lower ratings. Its annual expense ratio is 0.47 percent. For a bit more income, consider buying one or more of the four preferreds described below. Note that ticker symbols for these stocks aren’t consistent across brokerage firms and financial websites. If you can’t find a symbol, visit www.quantumonline.com, a free site where you can look up preferred share classes by entering the issuer’s name. AmTrust Financial Services, 7.75 percent Dep Shares Non-Cumulative Preferred Series E (AFSI.E, $27.00,

O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

7.2 percent) AmTrust specializes in small-business insurance, selling coverage for workers’ compensation, extended warranties and other types of property and casualty insurance. Revenues should hit $4.7 billion this year, up from $4 billion in 2015, according to Wall Street estimates. Analysts see the firm booking profits of $470 million in 2016. The company earns a solid A rating, moreover, from A.M. Best, a firm that evaluates the financial health of insurance providers. AmTrust’s preferred looks attractive for its above-average yield and secure payout, said Greco. The firm paid $11.6 million in preferred dividends in the second quarter of 2016, well below its profits of $135 million. Shares aren’t callable until March 2021, and the dividends qualify for the 15 percent tax treatment. However, they

aren’t cumulative. Citigroup, Inc., 8.125 percent Dep Shares Series AA Non-cumulative Preferred (C.P, $27.68, 7.3 percent) After suffering a near-death experience during the Great Recession, Citigroup now appears to be on much sounder footing. The giant bank, which holds more than $2.1 trillion in assets, recently passed its annual Federal Reserve “stress test,” winning permission to more than triple its common stock dividend and buy back up to $8.6 billion in shares over the next year. Analysts expect the firm to report $21 billion in profits in 2016 on revenues of $69.9 billion. Citi’s improving finances bode well for its preferred stock. Although the shares trade well above par value, they still offer a generous yield. Dividends qualify for the 15 percent tax treatment. However, payments aren’t cumulative, and Citi can redeem the stock in February 2018. JPMorgan Chase & Co., 6.70 percent Dep Shares Non-Cumulative Preferred, Series T (JPM.B, $28.02, yield 6.0 percent) The largest bank in the U.S., with assets of more than $2.4 trillion, JPMorgan runs a massive and sprawling financial business. Its balance sheet and capital levels have improved sharply since the financial crisis, and it’s now soundly profitable. Analysts forecast $20.6 billion in earnings this year on revenues of $96.2 billion.

JPMorgan issues many classes of preferred stock. But the recently issued Series T looks like one of the most compelling now. Dividends qualify for the 15 percent tax rate, but they aren’t cumulative, and the bank can redeem the stock in March 2019. KKR & Co. 6.50 percent Series B Non-Cumulative Preferred (KKR.B, $26.70, 6.1 percent) KKR owns more than $30 billion in investments, ranging from private equity to ownership stakes in publicly traded firms, such as HCA Holdings (HCA), Walgreens Boots Alliance (WBA) and U.S. Foods Holdings (USFD). KKR also generates income from hedge funds and other investments. Bank of America Merrill Lynch rates KKR’s common stock a “buy,” seeing improvements in the business and a rising level of fee-based income as the firm diversifies its revenue streams. KKR’s profits can still be erratic. But its preferred dividends look solid. Analysts expect KKR to earn $394 million this year, providing ample coverage for its payout of $15.8 million on preferred shares. The dividends aren’t cumulative, and they don’t qualify for the 15 percent tax rate. But KKR can’t redeem the shares until September 2021. All contents © 2016 the Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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Warren Buffett’s 3 best dividend stocks By Wayne Duggan With the S&P 500 making new all-time highs recently, it’s getting more and more difficult to find value stocks that pay a big dividend. Now may be the perfect time to turn to Warren Buffett’s top three dividend stocks: General Motors Company (GM), Verizon Communications Inc. (VZ) and Sanofi SA (SNY). Let’s face it — stocks are expensive, and interest rates are near all-time lows. That’s why smart long-term investors around the world are racking their brains to find value stocks that pay large, reliable dividends. Luckily, investing in stocks is not like taking a test in school — it’s OK to look over the smart kid’s shoulder and copy. Warren Buffett is one of the most successful value investors in history. Fortunately, each quarter we all get a chance to copy off of Buffett’s paper when Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (BRK.A, BRK.B) discloses its top holdings to the SEC and the public in its 13F filing.

Verizon Communications Inc. VZ has been one of the top performing dividend stocks in the market in 2016, gaining 16 percent on the year. Yet even after those gains, VZ still pays a generous 4.2 percent dividend. Warren Buffett often looks to invest in companies that have a durable competitive advantage in their market. VZ has the largest share of the U.S. mobile carrier market, and it’s not likely to lose its top spot anytime soon. The wireless carrier business has an extremely high barrier to entry that limits

outside competition, which is certainly reassuring for long-term investors. And I’m fairly certain this whole cell phone trend isn’t going away anytime soon. Despite its dominant position in a massive, stable market, VZ management isn’t content. In fact, the company recently made headlines for its proposed $4.8 billion acquisition of Yahoo! Inc. (YHOO) (though recent Yahoo disclosures are raising doubts about whether the deal with go through as structured). VZ is hoping that its YHOO acquisition will play a crucial role in its aggressive mobile video initiative, which could be a major growth driver in the future. Finally, in addition to all these positives and that huge 4.2 percent yield, VZ stock is still a solid value at a forward price-to-earnings ratio of only 13.3.

General Motors Co. There is no question that when it comes to Warren Buffett dividend stocks, GM is the top pick in terms of both value and yield. GM stock currently yields an incredible 4.8 percent. Yet it somehow trades at a minuscule forward P/E ratio of only 5.5. Fresh off huge Q2 earnings and revenue beats, GM stock is still somehow lagging the market and is down 6.4 percent in 2016. The market seems to have plenty of

fears when it comes to GM. Whether it be the rise of Tesla Motors Inc. (TSLA), the possibility of an auto lending bubble, GM’s past financial struggles or all of the above, investors don’t seem to trust the stock. This article is by Aaron Levitt of InvestorPlace. As of this writing, he did not hold a position in any of the aforementioned securities. Values quoted are as of 8/23/16. All contents © 2016 the Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

BEACON BITS

Oct. 22

INVESTMENT EXPECTATIONS Montgomery County Public Libraries presents a free seminar,

“Money Matters: Realistic Investment Expectations,” on Saturday, Oct. 22 from 4:30 to 5:45 p.m. Join James Ferrugia, retired Morgan Stanley Senior Vice President, for a financial planning discussion designed for young professionals, pre-re-

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SNY is one of the largest global pharmaceutical companies. Its top drugs include Lantus (diabetes), Plavix (atherothrombosis) and Lovenox (thrombosis). On top of its 4.1 percent dividend yield, SNY stock fits all the typical value qualifications for a Berkshire Hathaway holding. In an expensive market, the stock currently trades at a forward P/E of only 13.2. Buffett’s current stake in SNY is a relatively modest $162 million, but he’s been an investor now for almost a decade. It has been a tough environment for healthcare stocks in recent months. Fortunately, dividend stock investors now have the chance to scoop up SNY stock 24 percent cheaper than it was a year ago.

to retire, realistic returns and distribution rates, active or passive investing, asset allocation, how rising rates affect bond values and more. A brief Q&A will follow. This event will take place at Silver Spring Library, located at 900 Wayne Ave., Silver Spring, Md. For more information, visit http://bit.ly/InvestmentExpectations.

BEACON BITS

Oct. 5+

MONEY TALKS FOR WOMEN

Arlington Library presents a free program, Money Talk: A Financial Education Series for Women, on Wednesdays, Oct. 5, Oct. 12, Oct. 19 and Oct. 26 at 6:30 p.m. The five-week course includes access to an online textbook. You need not attend all programs to participate. Learn how to increase your financial knowledge and empower yourself to make savvier financial decisions. Registration is required. The library is located at 1015 N. Quincy St., Arlington, Va. For more information or to register, visit http://arlingtonva.libcal.com/event/2682253.

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O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Don’t sell yourself short on the job hunt Question: Transferable skills are skills that you can If I don’t have every qualification take with you from one situation to another, listed for a particular job from one job to another. These opening, should I let it go, are portable proficiencies. or apply anyway? Typically, transferable skills Answer: are soft skills — like communiYou may think that a lack of cating effectively, showing inidirect experience will stop tiative, creativity — to name a you from getting a job, but few. These abilities are valuable that’s not always the case. across all industries. Time and time again, employThere are hundreds of ers look for people who can transferable skills. In addition demonstrate strong transferto experiences at work, adult CAREER COACH able skills. Often, employers life teaches us many things, By Judy Smith are interested in what kind of such as organizing people, person you are — what values you, as an keeping records, flexibility when carrying employee, bring to an organization. out plans. You have untold numbers of

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transferable skills. A significant part of what makes you different and marketable — your “brand” — are your transferable skills. (See “On the job search? How to market yourself,” in the June Beacon). Regrettably, pinpointing these is often challenging, because they aren’t as obvious as more specific job-related skills.

Define your transferable skills Despite the challenge, it’s important that you can name and cite specific (not generic) examples of how and when each of your transferable skills was used. Prospective employers don’t accept blanket statements; they want proof. Here’s a plan to get started: • Think of a time when something you did turned out well. (Note: Even small victories from your childhood could have grown into transferable skills by now.) • Tell the story surrounding this positive development: What was going on around you? What problem were you or others facing? What made you think your approach would help? • Describe your role in producing a good outcome. For example: If your church or synagogue needed to raise funds, did you get items donated for a silent auction? If you were on a committee for a special event, did you recruit/train

the volunteers needed to make it happen? Specifically, what did you do? • Make notes on your sense of accomplishment. Why were you pleased with the way things turned out? Look closely for skills hidden within these experiences. The words you use to describe them can make a world of difference. For example: • Making purchasing decisions for your home includes budgeting and managing finances. • Getting five things done in one day involves time management. • Hosting a get-together in your home involves event planning and organizing.

Narrow the generation gap Yet another consideration: Odds-on, the jobs you apply for now will have you working with the generation labeled, “the millennials.” Indeed, it is likely that your supervisor would be a millennial as well. The differences between your generation and the millennial generation are considerable. They include background and training, individual outlook, personal style and approach to work. Perceived difficulties handling these distinctions can give rise to age bias in the hiring process.

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Say you saw it in the Beacon | Law & Money

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6

Politics is an intergenerational topic With the presidential election coming up, hasn’t there been a woman major party I am sure that many of you have been think- presidential candidate until now? You can talk about different ing a lot about politics and votways that you can bring about ing. Kids are also aware of this political change in your comimportant political event, and munity, and perhaps come up some have had first-hand expewith projects to work on toriences with the voting process gether to influence those while in school. around you. Older adults are extremely Even though teens under important to elections. Accordthe age of 18 cannot vote in ing to the U.S. Census BuNovember’s election, that reau, in the 2012 presidential election, just 45 percent of doesn’t mean that they can’t get involved. For example, those 18 to 29 voted, while 72 GENERATIONS they can volunteer at the polls percent of those 65 and over TOGETHER By Alexis Bentz did. You can help close this gap — something popular with both teens and seniors. Most by working with the young adults and kids in your life to become more students have Election Day off, and younger invested in the electoral process, and get to high school students can volunteer, while those 17 and older get paid for helping. the polls if they are old enough to vote. Election workers help set up the polling The next time you hang out with your younger buddies, talk to them about their place, check voters in, direct them to the opinions on the current presidential race. voting area, and instruct them on how to use You may find that there is a lot to talk the machine or paper ballot. (Learn more in about, and you can compare opinions and the June Beacon cover story, “Doing their part for democracy,” online at www.thebeasee new perspectives. Watch the news with them, or ask them connewspapers.com/select-stories/feato show you how to find the latest snippets tures/doing-their-part-democracy.) Another way teens can get involved is about, or from, the candidates on Twitter. Ask them what they think of some of the through participation in their school’s Stuissues and candidates. Should there be a dent Government Association (SGA). Stuwall between the U.S. and Mexico? Why dents who run for office follow the same

process as that of a national election. Nominated by their peers, students campaign, give speeches at rallies, and then all students fill in ballots that are counted. Once elected, winners attend meetings in which they make decisions regarding the well-being of their school. They also attend several conferences held by their county SGA. By holding office in school, teens can learn more about what it is like to hold a position of power, and the qualities a skilled leader should (and should not) have. There are also a number of other political organizations for teens, such as the Junior State of America — a leadership and education program for high school students. Nationally 500,000 kids take part in these stu-

dent-run programs and summer institutes, where they learn “democratic leadership skills, challenge one another to think critically, advocate their own opinions, develop respect for opposing views, and learn to rise above self-interest to promote the public good,” according to the group’s mission statement. Learn more at http://jsa.org. Another way kids and teens can participate in the presidential election is through Nikelodeon TV network’s campaign special, called Kids Pick the President. This program includes a mock election where the participating kids chose who they think should become president. Remarkably, Kids Pick the President has See POLITICS, page 37

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O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Trade your annuity in for a better one By Kimberly Lankford Annuity remorse. That may be the diagnosis if you regret purchasing a contract that you no longer want, or that you think charges too much in fees. However, the cure could be costly if the annuity is in a taxable account. Cashing it out will automatically trigger a tax bill on all the earnings that have grown tax-deferred — in your top tax bracket. Plus, you could face a 10 percent early-withdrawal penalty if you’re under age 59½. But there is a way to get out of an annuity you no longer want without that costly side effect — a procedure called a “1035 exchange.” This lets you move from one annuity to another while still deferring the tax bill. Switching to a lower-cost annuity could save you thousands of dollars per year. (If your annuity is in an IRA, you can cash out and avoid the tax bill without having to switch to another annuity as long as you keep the money in an IRA.) “The annuity market has changed significantly,” said John Ohl, chief executive officer of Bay Colony Advisors, in Concord, Mass. “As lower-cost annuities come to the market, people who purchased annuities in the past are starting to do their homework and save a lot of money.” Before you switch annuities, compare fees, investing options, surrender charges, and any guarantees or other special perks that come with both the old annuity and ones you are considering.

than 2 percent in annual fees, which can include annuity charges of 1.2 percent or more (called “mortality & expense” or “M&E” fees), plus investment fees often topping 1 percent per year for a limited menu of expensive mutual funds. That adds up to at least $6,000 in fees each year on a $300,000 annuity. “The price was usually so high that it wiped out the value of the tax deferral,” said Mitchell Caplan, chief executive officer of Jefferson National, which offers a lower-cost variable annuity through financial advisers. The firm’s Monument Advisor annuity charges just $20 per month in annuity fees, and offers more than 350 investment choices, including low-cost Vanguard funds. Financial advisers can manage the annuity’s mutual funds just like they would with other investments. “The annuity charges are much lower, and your quality investment options usually go up substantially,” said Jim Holtzman, a certified financial planner. New clients frequently come to him already owning expensive annuities, and he helps them switch to lower-cost versions. Fidelity and Vanguard offer low-cost variable annuities directly to consumers. The Fidelity Personal Retirement Annuity charges annuity fees of 0.25 percent per year (0.10 percent for initial investments of $1 million or more), and has 57 investing options. Vanguard’s variable annuity charges 0.29 percent in administrative and M&E fees, and fund fees range from 0.15

Move to a lower-fee annuity Many variable annuities charge more

Job search From page 34 As you think about your transferable skills, here are some work-related characteristics that could enhance the interviewer’s perception of a mature applicant: • Energetic: Active, full of life, vigorous, an energetic worker. • Flexible: Manageable, adaptable. • Follows instructions well: Willing to ask questions (of someone much younger than you) to enhance understanding. • Broad-minded: Being tolerant in thought or opinion. • Works well with others: Fits in easily. • Helpful: Enjoys mentoring and help-

See ANNUITY, page 39

ing people solve their problems. • Keen on continued learning and development. • Loyal: Committed to things/people that mean a lot to you — such as your job/supervisor. Figuring out transferable skills will go a long way in helping you overcome a shortfall within a list of job requirements. You should showcase these skills in your resume, cover letters, interviews and networking. Each time, you will be offering evidence to convince the employer to offer the job to you. Judy Smith is a registered career coach. Send your job search questions to Smith at smithjudit@gmail.com or visit her website at www.judysmith.solutions.

BEACON BITS

Oct. 19

MEDICARE WORKSHOP There will be a Medicare 101 Workshop on Wednesday, Oct. 19

from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at McLean Community Center, 1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean, Va. For more information, visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/dfs/olderadultservices/vicap.htm or call (703) 790-0123, TTY 711.

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Law & Money

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6

Alternatives to longterm care insurance By Ann Vanderslice Federal employees and retirees who signed up for the Federal Long Term Care Insurance Program may experience a rise in their blood pressure over the next few weeks. On November 1, their premiums will increase by an average of 83 percent, or more than $100 per month. If you’re one of the roughly 280,000 federal employees who enrolled in the plan (about 10 percent of the current federal workforce), you just watched your retirement budget collapse. And you’re probably angry. Rightfully so. You probably believed your premiums would be better controlled. But let’s give your blood pressure a chance to come down and talk about your options. The program is offering you a few ways to go. You can lower your benefits and maintain your current premium amount. You can go halfway — increasing the premium by 40 percent, for example, and reduce your benefits proportionately. Or you can keep the benefits you signed up for and absorb the new premium. But there are other options available as well — steps that can be taken outside of the federal program that might also work for you. It’s important to remember, however, that everyone’s situation is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. Here are just a few options available:

Life insurance You can buy a life insurance policy. There are myriad life insurance policies out there and this is just one example of how purchasing a policy can help you pay for long-term care. Premium payments can be made using a single premium or can be paid monthly or annually. Once you need long-term care services, you are most likely approaching your mortality, so they’re going to let you access ei-

Politics From page 35 predicted the winner of each election accurately, with the exception of the 2004 race. Who says kids don’t have good judgment? Both the young and old play a major

ther the entire amount or a partial amount of the death benefit. It just reduces the death benefit proportionately. So if, for example, you pass away after you’ve used half the benefit, your heirs will still get the other half tax-free. If you don’t use it at all, they’ll get the entire death benefit. In most cases, once you’ve put that lump sum in, you’ll never pay another premium.

Fixed annuities You can use a fixed index annuity with an income rider for your long-term care fund. A fixed index annuity is designed, first and foremost, to help create a guaranteed stream of income for as long as you live. However, the idea in this instance is that you’ll pay the annuity premium and let it sit and accumulate interest credits for a given amount of time. That annuity will also have an income rider, generally available at an additional cost. That rider may also increase your benefit base by a certain percentage each year, often known as a roll-up interest rate. The longer you delay the rider income, the more years you can enjoy the annual roll up. In 10 years, you can come back to that money and start drawing income. It may be appealing for a person who might not be able to qualify for traditional long-term care insurance, or someone who might not be able to get a life insurance policy, because there’s no underwriting. Putting money aside for long-term care isn’t an easy decision for anyone. It’s an expense we try to talk ourselves out of, saying: “Only 50 percent of people need care; maybe I’ll die in my sleep.” But there are ways to fit that fund into your retirement plan. So stay calm, carry on, and don’t be afraid to get creative. Ann Vanderslice is president and CEO of Retirement Planning Strategies. All contents © 2016 the Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. role in politics, both directly and indirectly. Remember: You can make a big difference in your school, community or in your nation, no matter what age you are. Alexis Bentz is a 9th grade student at Thomas Wooton High School in Rockville, Md.

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Oct. 10+

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O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

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Say you saw it in the Beacon | Law & Money

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6

Annuity From page 36 percent to 0.44 percent per year. John Ohl saved a bundle by switching annuities. About 13 years ago, he bought a MetLife variable annuity to boost his taxdeferred retirement savings after maxing out his 401(k) and IRA. He bought another MetLife annuity a few years later. But when Jefferson National introduced its low-cost variable annuity, he found he could save about 1.5 percent in annuity and investment fees every year, plus get better investing options. He did a 1035 exchange from his first annuity in 2011, and he moved the second annuity as soon as the surrender period was over two years later.

Avoid surrender charges Follow Ohl’s example of watching surrender charges if you consider switching. Many variable annuities assess a surrender charge of 7 to 10 percent for leaving (whether by cashing out or switching) within the first seven to 10 years after buying the annuity. Ohl’s original annuity had a surrender fee that started at 8 percent of the account balance and gradually decreased over eight years (the Jefferson National, Fidelity and Vanguard annuities do not have surrender charges).

But if the difference in fees is extreme, switching during the surrender period could pay off. “As you get within one to three years before the end of the surrender period, depending on how large the annuity is, it can make sense to switch and pay the penalty,” said Mike Krol, of Waldron Private Wealth. Jefferson National and Vanguard have calculators to help you figure out how much you can save by switching to their lower-cost versions, based on your specific annuity and when it was purchased.

Have an income guarantee? The decision to switch becomes more complicated if you’re paying for an income guarantee on your annuity, which promises that you can withdraw a certain amount of money every year for the rest of your life, even if your investments lose value or you live so long that the account runs dry. Vanguard, for example, offers the option of paying 1.2 percent extra to lock in the value of the investments on the policy’s anniversary each year, and bumps up the benefit base if the investments’ value has increased on that date. You can take 4 percent of the benefit base each year for the rest of your life if you start withdrawals between ages 59 and 64, or 5 percent if withdrawals start between ages 65 and 79. Some annuities also

BEACON BITS

Oct. 30

SOCIAL PROGRAM FOR WIDOWS

Widows of all ages are invited to participate in an educational and tasty program at Locust Grove Nature Center, 7777 Democracy Blvd., Bethesda, Md., on Sunday, Oct. 30 from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Learn about pollination and the history of apples, and press your own apple cider in an old-fashioned press, followed by an opportunity to socialize and enjoy the grounds of the nature center. Space is limited and registration is required. An entry fee of $7 supports the nature center. For more information and to register, contact Leann Sherman of Widow Care at (301) 917-4741, leann@widowcare.org.

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promise to bump up the guaranteed value by 4 or 5 percent per year, if more than the high-water mark. But you can only access these guarantees as lifetime income — often at 4 percent per year — not as a lump sum. If you cash out or switch to another annuity, you’ll only get the actual value of your investments — not the guaranteed value. If your investments are worth $100,000 but the guaranteed value is $150,000, you’ll only get the $100,000 if you switch to another annuity. Figure out if you’d give up any guarantees by switching to another annuity, and also decide whether you still need a guarantee at all. You may have retired since you originally bought the annuity, or built up enough savings that you no longer need the guarantee. “Understand what the real use of the

annuity is for, and how it fits within your overall retirement plan,” said Krol. If you still want the guarantee, keep in mind that the guarantees sold on annuities before 2010 tend to be more generous and less expensive than those available on new annuities, said Mark Cortazzo, a certified financial planner. His Annuity Review service charges $299 to analyze two annuities — such as the one you have now and the one to which you’re considering switching. Also consider whether you still want an annuity at all. Another way to get out of the annuity without the tax bill is to make a 1035 exchange from the annuity to pay long-term care insurance premiums. If you need care, you’ll receive benefits from the long-term care insurance policy tax-free. All contents © 2016 the Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA OFFICE ON AGING

Spotlight On Aging VOLUME XXVII, ISSUE 10

A newsletter for D.C. Seniors

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR'S MESSAGE

October 2016

Town Hall Meetings

By Laura Newland Executive Director, D.C. Office on Aging Fall is here! I had the TV on the other night, and I looked up and realized with horror that QVC was selling Christmas trees and Christmas decorations. In September. We live in a culture that’s always pointing us to what’s next — the next big thing, the next big event, the next big whatever. And somehow we miss all the in-between things and wonder where our days went. One of the things that I love about this job is that when I see you out in the community, you remind me over and over that I need to remember that what happens now is important. That yes, it’s good to be strategic and plan ahead, but I can’t forget that what we do today is critical for seniors, people with disabilities, and their caregivers living in the District. We can’t wait for a year from now, five years from now, to be great. You need us to be there for you today. I’ve started asking people in my life, and people I meet, about how connected they are to services where they live and what they wish they knew. Over and over, people tell me that they wish they had a reliable source of information for caregiver support. Caregiving is a relationship. A critical one that holds our families and communities together. Several years ago, my dad got really sick really quickly for no identifiable reason and spent time in an intensive care unit. It

was terrifying. I shared caregiver responsibilities while he was at the hospital and when he was moved back home for a short period of time. Taking care of my dad changed our relationship. And it changed me, too. My time as a caregiver was short-lived, but I know for many of you, this is an ongoing responsibility. As an agency, we’ve been thinking quite a bit about the services we provide, and we know that when we serve caregivers, we’re serving seniors and people with disabilities. In many cases, it’s caregivers who prevent people from living in nursing homes or other long-term care. We need to serve you, too. If you’re a caregiver and interested in knowing what might be available to you (or if you know a caregiver), please call our Information & Assistance line at 202724-5626. DCOA provides support for caregivers through adult day health programs, respite, and online chats with other caregivers. Check out our website at www.dcoa.dc.gov for more detailed information. In all of our agency work, we strive to make your lives a little easier, providing support and programs that allow you to have less stress and more information. I hope each of you is able to step outside, breathe in the crisp fall air, and enjoy it for exactly what it is. A perfect fall day.

DCOA held a series of Aging Services Town Hall Meetings in each ward of the city to present programs, services and the budget. During follow-up meetings, seniors will be asked to provide their feedback on how to best serve seniors.

Scam Related to D.C. Photo Enforcement Tickets The District of Columbia Department of Motor Vehicles is warning customers about a scam email that claims to be trying to collect money from past due tickets. Victims of the scam receive an email from info@localmailserver.info, and are told that they have a Notice of Unsatisfied Photo Enforcement Ticket. The notice also directs customers to click the link to “Lost Traffic Tickets.” If you receive this email, DO NOT CLICK THE LINK or reply. Photo Enforcement tickets are mailed through the United States Postal Service to the address of record based on the tag number. Also, D.C. DMV mails the Notice of Unsatisfied

Photo Enforcement Ticket, and it contains specific information on how to contest the ticket by submitting a request for adjudication. D.C. DMV only contacts customers via email if they have registered for DC DMV’s email ticket alert system (see http://dmv.dc.gov/ser vice/ registration-email-ticket-alert-servicetas). Then they will receive an email notifying them to log into their account when there is a ticket update. Customers who receive the scam email notice should report it to the Federal Trade Commission at www.ftc.gov/complaint, which has detailed information for consumers on how to handle such scams.

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6

D.C. OFFICE

AGING NEWSLETTER

Community Calendar October 5th • 11 a.m. to noon D.C. Office on Aging will make a presentation about its resources and services at Riggs LaSalle Recreation Center, 501 Riggs Rd. NE. For more information, call Alice A. Thompson at 202-535-1321.

5th, 19th, 24th, 25th Join Seabury Resources for Aging on a trip to the new National African American Museum of History and Culture. The trip leaves from Kibar, 1519 4th St. NE on Oct. 5; from Edgewood Commons, 635 Edgewood Terr. NE on Oct. 19; from Wesley House, 400 Commodore Joshua Barney Dr. NE on Oct 24; and from Ft. Lincoln I, 2855 Bladensburg Rd. NE on Oct. 25. For additional details, call Norma Hardie at 202-529-8701.

8th • 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The D.C. Office on Aging, in collaboration with Gethsemane Baptist Church, will hold an informational event sponsored by the Women’s Ministry. The church is located at 5119 4th St. NW. For more information, call Shirley Fields at 202-882-4972.

11th • noon to 2 p.m.

19th • 9:30 a.m.

25th • 6:30 to 8 p.m.

The Capitol Hill Chapter of AARP #2881 meets at Liber ty Baptist Church, 527 Kentucky Ave. SE. For more information, call Alice A. Thompson at 202-535-1321.

The Seabury Resources for Aging Ward 5 Advisor y Council meeting takes place at 2900 Newton St. NE. For more information, call Norma Hardie at 202-529-8701.

Iona and Brighton Gardens of Friendship Heights are partnering to provide free programs for adult children and other caregivers. The second in the three-part program is titled “Helping a Family Member Who Doesn’t Want Your Help.” This session will provide strategies for staying effective and involved as a caregiver without burning out. On Nov. 9, the topic will be “Supporting a Family Member with Memory Loss.” Both will be held at Brighton Gardens, 5555 Friendship Blvd., Chevy Chase, Md. To register, email registration@iona.org or call 202895-9409.

14th • 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Pepco Energy Assistance Summit will take place at Pepco Holdings, Inc., 2nd Floor Conference Center, 701 9th St. NW. For more information, call Alice A. Thompson at 202-535-1321.

14th • 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. The D.C. Office on Aging, in Collaboration with the Hattie Holmes Senior Wellness Center, will hold a Community Health, Wellness & Informational Fair at the center, 324 Kennedy St. NW. For more information, call Teresa Moore at 202-291-6170.

15th • 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Hillcrest Day 2016 takes place at Hillcrest Recreation Center, 3100 Denver St. SE. Contact Michelle Peete at michelleamospeete@gmail.com to learn more.

16th • noon to 4 p.m. 14th Annual Foggy Bottom/West End Neighbor Block Party takes place at I and 22nd St. NW. For more information, email friendsblockparty@gmail.com.

20th • 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. There will be a combined District of Columbia Retired Educators, Inc. fall membership meeting and D.C .Office on Aging-sponsored Community Health, Wellness and Informational Fair, plus a Walgreens’ flu shot clinic, at Nineteenth Street Baptist Church, 4606 16th St. NW. Contact JoAnn Turner, president of DCREA, at 202-526-4953.

23rd • 3 p.m. The Washington Seniors Wellness Center presents The Choraleers in their 30th annual concert, “Let Heavenly Music Fill the Air,” at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 400 I St. SW. Parking on site; or take the Green Line to Waterfront station.

25th • 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Office of Disability Rights, in partnership with several District Government agencies, will host the 9th Annual Mayor’s Disability Awareness Expo at the D.C. Convention Center. For more information, call Alice A. Thompson at 202-535-1321.

26th • 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Quilting Club at Hattie Holmes Senior Wellness Center is hosting a quilt demonstration and workshop. There will be projects on display, giveaways and a raffle. The center is located at 324 Kennedy St. NW. For more information, call 202-291-6170.

27th • 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. A health and wellness information fair focusing on health education and breast cancer awareness will be held at Petersburg, 3298 Fort Lincoln Dr. NE. For more information, call Norma Hardie at 202-529-8701.

Public hearing on Washington Gas rate hike The Office of the People’s Counsel (OPC) wants District consumers to know that the Public Service Commission has scheduled four community hearings for the public to provide comments on Washington Gas Light Company’s (WGL) proposed $17.4 million rate increase request. Since its initial

filing on February 26, 2016, WGL has increased its request to $19.9 million. If the rate case is approved as filed, the average customer’s monthly bill could go up about 25 percent beginning in March 2017. OPC has been closely reviewing WGL’s request and is working to ensure that consumers

SPOTLIGHT ON AGING Spotlight On Aging is published by the Information Office of the D.C. Office on Aging for D.C. senior residents. Advertising contained in the Beacon is not endorsed by the D.C. Office on Aging or by the publisher.

500 K St. N.E., Washington, D.C. 20002 202-724-5622 • www.dcoa.dc.gov Executive Director Laura Newland Editor Darlene Nowlin

actual or perceived: race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, familial status, family responsibilities, matriculation, political affiliation, disability, source of income, and place of residence or business. Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination which is prohibited by the Act. In addition, harassment based on any of the above protected categories is prohibited by the Act. Discrimination in violation of the Act will not be tolerated. Violators will be subjected to disciplinary action.

Photographer Selma Dillard

The Office on Aging is

are not hit with an unfair and excessive rate increase and that they receive reliable and safe natural gas service. People’s Counsel Sandra MattavousFrye encourages consumers to let their voices be heard by participating in Commission hearings. The dates and locations are:

Breast Cancer Awareness Month October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Breast cancer is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer in women. About 1 in 8 women born today in the United States will get breast cancer at some point. The good news is that many women can survive breast cancer if it’s found and treated early. Talk to a doctor about your risk for breast cancer, especially if a close family member of yours has had breast or ovarian cancer. Your doctor can help you decide when and how often to get mammograms.

in partnership with the The D.C. Office on Aging does not discriminate against anyone based on

Wednesday, Oct. 5 Southwest Public Library 900 Wesley Pl. SW 6 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 15 Thurgood Marshall Academy 2427 Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave. SE 10 a.m. to noon

District of Columbia

Project WISH

Recycling Program.

Project WISH (Women Into Staying Healthy) recommends that women 40

and over have a yearly mammogram — unless otherwise recommended by a practitioner. Take time to care for you. Project WISH is a District breast and cervical cancer screening program for women in the D.C. metro area. Free breast and cervical cancer screening and diagnostic follow-up services are offered to eligible women, 21 to 64 years of age, who have limited health insurance, no health insurance, or only Medicare Part A. Project WISH also provides patient navigation, transportation assistance, and cancer education to all women enrolled in the program. Call Project WISH to find out if you are eligible at (202) 442-5900.

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O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Travel Leisure &

Volunteers can help care for elephants in a sparsely populated area of Cambodia. See story on page 45.

Plenty still to love in the city by the bay

Exploring the city This 49-square-mile city is built on 43 hills and surrounded by water on three sides. Tourists love to pack into the famous cable cars that rumble up some of the city’s steep hills. (Bennett rhapsodized, “Where little cable cars climb halfway to the stars.”) Andrew Hallidie invented and launched them in 1873 as a safer mode than the horse-drawn tram that had careened down a hill dragging the horses with it in a horrific accident. The cars jiggle along at 9.5 mph on 17 miles of track. This San Francisco tradition is well worth the long lines and the sardine-style

experience. If you’re really into cable car mechanics, try the Cable Car Museum and learn why Rudyard Kipling marveled at them in the 1890s. Union Square, downtown’s heart since 1850, is home base for high-end shopping and many hotels. It hosts a daily mélange of office workers, street musicians, shoppers, some homeless souls and a heart sculpture featuring a scenic panorama of the city and the Golden Gate Bridge. The square is the setting for rallies, movies, art fairs and bands. A monument honors Admiral George Dewey’s Manila Bay victory during the 1898 SpanishAmerican War. Nearby is the oldest Chinatown in the U.S. The official entrance, the pagodatopped Chinatown Gate, features lions, dragons and fish that symbolize wealth and prosperity. Today, this 24 square block warren has five Zip codes, 12,000 residents and swarms of tourists souvenir shopping. It’s a great place to sample Asian treats like dim sum, roast duck and barbequed pork, as enticing aromas of incense, ginger and briny fish waft through the narrow streets. At a little tucked-away enterprise called the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory on Ross Alley, workers hand make 20,000 fortune cookies a day from scratch — a tasty far cry from those cellophane-

By Glenda C. Booth “I left my heart in San Francisco,” Tony Bennett crooned over the airwaves and on record players in the 1950s. For a city that has survived the Gold Rush’s ups and downs, the Beat generation, hippies galore, dotcom’s boom and bust, the agony of AIDS, persistent homelessness and devastating earthquakes, one has to ask, what is there to love? The answer: lots. For one thing, heart sculptures — locally-produced artworks created for an annual fund raiser for San Francisco General Hospital — brighten many city spots, in a nod to Bennett’s memorable song.

Tourists ride one of San Francisco’s iconic cable cars, shown high on a hill overlooking the bay and Alcatraz island, which is now a National Park.

wrapped, tasteless wannabes. On the street, naïve tourists are often invited to do some Cantonese bargaining. Few city halls symbolize love, but San Francisco’s Beaux Arts city hall does. The site for the country’s first gay marriages, today it’s the setting for around 38 such ceremonies a day. On the free tour, docents point out the rubber disks under columns that help the building endure earthquakes. The dome rises 307 feet, and San Franciscans love to boast that it is higher than the U.S. Capitol’s dome. Unfortunately, the Board of Supervisors’ chamber, lined with hand-carved Manchurian oak, is the site of a gruesome act — the 1978 assassination of Harvey Milk, the first openly-gay elected official in California.

Flower power lives on

A row of Victorian houses lines San Francisco’s Alamo Square, which offers a panoramic view of the city’s skyline.

Meandering around Haight Ashbury, you can easily conjure up 1960s images of Janis Joplin, Timothy Leary, Allen Ginsberg and Jerry Garcia hanging around, probably in a fog (and not the city’s famous fog that rolls off the Pacific Ocean). Frequent sightings of orange, turquoise, lime green and hot pink hair, not to mention variously pierced body parts, still give the area an anti-establishment feel. Mysterious aromas intermix with those of the waffle cones baking at Ben and

Jerry’s ice cream store in this neighborhood. A sampling of Ben and Jerry’s flavors: Hazed and Confused, Cherry Garcia, Chocolate Therapy and Low-eco Footprint. In other funky shops, you can buy ruffled 1960s bellbottom jeans or sequined hot pants. There are much-loved stores like Head Rush, Skunk Funk, Liquid Experience and Pipe Dreams, hawking tattoos, body piercing, vintage clothing and antique oddities. For 48 years, new and return customers have loved Decades of Fashion, featuring clothing for men, women and kids, some designed by owner Cicely Hansen. The store is jam-packed with vintage duds, organized by decade from the 1940s to the 1980s, including items like furs, plumed hats and silk stockings. “Fashion repeats itself,” Hansen believes. After all, styles like the dropped waist and a-line skirts of the 1920s (think Downton Abbey) came back in the 1960s. The Loved to Death shop offers Victorian mourning jewelry. People back then snipped a lock of the deceased’s hair to make jewelry. The Haight’s residents’ fondness for their beautiful Victorian houses is evidenced by how meticulously the homes See SAN FRANCISCO, page 43

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Leisure & Travel

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6

San Francisco From page 42 are lovingly painted and restored.

Treats on the waterfront Fisherman’s Wharf is a popular waterside hotspot, especially for local eateries. Boudin Bakery has baked the city’s famous sourdough bread for over 160 years. Customers swizzle clam chowder in sourdough “bowls,” and watch bakers at work from a 30-foot observation deck. The Buena Vista Café serves 1,500 to 2,000 Irish coffees a day, importing onethird of all Irish whisky that enters the U.S. One bartender touted, “We don’t stint on the alcohol.” While on the indulgent track, don’t miss Ghirardelli’s premium chocolate, a city institution since 1852, loved for sweet, chocolaty treats like the sea salt caramel sundae, Painted Ladies and the Earthquake. Take home some individually wrapped squares for those you left behind on this trip. From the shoreline, you can admire the famous Golden Gate Bridge, a structure held together by one million rivets that can withstand 100 mile-per-hour winds. San Francisco is loaded with museums. One of the newest is the Contemporary Jewish Museum, which opened in 2008 to honor the diversity of the Jewish experi-

ence. A “non-collecting institution,” the only permanent thing is the architecture, designed by Daniel Libeskind, who believes that buildings should live and breathe. Libeskind created a contemporary extension to a 1907 power station, a design based on Hebrew letters, with a metallic blue exterior skin that changes color depending on the time of day or one’s viewing point. There’s no shortage of entertainment in San Francisco, but you haven’t seen a hat until you take in Club Fugazi’s zany “Beach Blanket Babylon,” a musical spoof of popular culture in which the performers wear gigantic hats as Snow White searches for her Prince Charming, encountering Darth Vader, Vladimir Putin and some of today’s political figures along the way.

From prison to National Park Alcatraz is the flip side of love, at least it was. A maximum-security, federal penitentiary from 1934 to 1963, it once held some of society’s most violent offenders. Today, it’s a national park of historic gardens and structures (though it also features “The Hole,” a solitary confinement cell). Rangers describe to one million visitors a year the daily life of “the worst of the worst” in what was “the most feared federal prison in the U.S.” “You were a number, not a name,” one prisoner said.

BEACON BITS

Oct. 25

ST. MARY’S CITY TOUR

Arlington County presents a guided tour of historic St. Mary’s City on Tuesday, Oct. 25. Explore living history, meet costumed interpreters, tour re-created colonial structures, and try activities that were popular in the 17th century. Learn how the Yaocomaco people lived, tour the town center, and explore the waterfront and plantation. Lunch will be provided in the St. Mary’s dining hall. There will be limited accessibility for persons with mobility issues, and the tour requires a lot of walking. The cost is $43 for residents; $49 for non-residents. The bus will depart from Thomas Jefferson Center, 3501 2nd St. S, at 7:30 a.m. and will return at 5:30 p.m. For more information or to register, visit bit.ly/ArlingtonTrips or call (703) 228-4744.

Today, Alcatraz is loved for its gardens of 120 plant species, and for seabirds like snowy egrets and oystercatchers. Remember Burt Lancaster as “The Birdman of Alcatraz”? San Francisco beat out Paris, Rome and Manhattan in Bennett’s song, where his love waited “above the blue and windy sea” and where the “golden sun will shine for me.” It still does.

If you go The Visitor Information Center (www.sftravel.com, 415-391-2000) at 900 Market St. has free guides, tour options, maps, event listings, hotel reservations and a multi-lin-

gual staff. Driving here is challenging, but the city’s municipal rail/bus system (the Muni) offers convenient public transit. Of course, San Francisco has the full range of lodging choices. Staying near public transportation is a good practical approach. Consider the Holiday Inn at 50 8th St. near City Hall. Rates start at $201 a night. See www.hiccsf.com or call (415) 626-6103. Major air carriers fly to and from San Francisco Airport (SFO). United has a non-stop from Reagan National Airport and several from Dulles International for around $340 round trip in October.

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O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

You can learn to lead a safari, sort of By Charmaine Noronha It’s not just a safari. It’s a master class in the untamed world, a behind-the-scenes education with experts who are the talking Google gods of wildlife. That’s what it’s like on safaris that let tourists learn alongside locals who are training to be guides. The guides, members of Kenya’s Maasai tribe, spend three weeks on a training mission traversing East Africa’s Maasai Mara region under the tutelage of senior guiding experts. And tourists can come along for the Land Cruiser rides.

Not your typical safari The three-week expedition, called Pyramids of Life, moves from Kenya’s Mara North Conservancy, which borders the country’s famous Masa Mara region, to Tanzania’s northern and southern Serengeti.

But unlike other safaris I’ve been on, this one is not just about drive-by photo opportunities. It’s about learning to become attuned to the sights and sounds of nature so you’re able to predict and identify what may be moving about in the plains. On a typical safari, you’re rushed off from place to place to make sure you bag photos of all the Big 5 game — lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard and rhino. But on this trip, instead, you immerse yourself for hours watching incredible scenes unfold. As we wound our way through the plains each day under the heat of a penetrating sun, we saw lions mating, impalas galloping by, hungry hippos and giraffes on the hunt for water. We witnessed a wildebeest giving birth, and saw her newborn calf stumble to gain its footing, falling and rising several times in those first few moments of life. Then, as

the mother began sauntering off to join thousands of other wildebeests in a migrating herd, we were stunned to see the newborn running too. We also saw a warthog torn to pieces by a lion. In the quiet of the night, the sound of the big cat’s teeth crushing the wild pig’s bones sent shivers down my spine. Topi antelopes stood guard on mounds of dirt to warn others of impending danger. Zebras used their tails to swish insects off their pals. We even learned about creatures I’d never heard of — like the hyrax, a small rodent-like animal that we were told is actually related to elephants.

Safari training trips Pyramids of Life is offered by Alex Walker’s Serian tour company. Walker says when he first started in the business 20 years ago, he used to conduct 45-day safaris.

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“Back in the day, you really got to know the landscape and understand the animals,” Walker said. “Your newspaper was reading the sounds of animals and birds to indicate what was happening in the bush. It was like a chess game, trying to work out where things were.” Today, most game drives have been condensed to one or two days out in the plains. “The idea of safari has been compacted into photos and soundbites,” Walker said. The idea behind the Pyramids of Life tour is “to bring that real-life-connect-the-dots back. We want to teach you to read the plains.” Serian’s Maasai guides know the bush, having grown up here, but they have “differing levels of knowledge.” The training allows them to share what they know with each other and with the guests, and provide an overlay of information about what they’re seeing. “It’s about reconnecting with nature and allowing for the time to take it all in,” Walker said. We also watched as the guides and their trainers developed relationships, sharing information, giggling at mistakes, and patting each other on the shoulder when they learned something new. And we partook in a walking safari to learn the ways of the Maasai. We were shown plants used for healing, others used as deodorant. At one point, they showed us how to make fire with sticks, and how they once hunted with a bow and arrow. “I like being a guide because I can spend time in the bush, showing others my land. You’re an ambassador to them,” said Maasai guide Mark Taga. “On this safari, you get to learn about everything by seeing things happen right in front of you. “We share our knowledge with guests, while learning at the same time. It’s great! I started in the kitchen as a cook, but now here I am, getting to tell others about things I’m interested in, such as birds,” Taga said. See SAFARI, page 46

BEACON BITS

Dec. 8

CHRISTMAS WALKING TOUR

Montgomery County Recreation presents a guided, narrated walking tour of Oatlands & Morven Park mansions, two 19th century historic estates. Enjoy the Christmas decor in the Oatlands mansion, and see hunting and carriage museums on the estate of Morven Park. Also tour the newly renovated Morven Park mansion. Lunch is on your own; there will be a stop at the Leesburg Premium Outlet food court. The cost is $60 for residents; $75 for non-residents. The van will depart from Olney Manor Park, 16601 Georgia Ave., Olney, Md. at 8 a.m. and will return at 6 p.m. For more information or to register, visit https://apm.activecommunities.com/montgomerycounty/Home or call (240) 777-6870.

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WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6

Help care for elephants in Cambodia By Kristi Eaton The trip to the hills of eastern Cambodia had all the makings of a luxurious getaway — delicious fresh fruit fed by hand, a dip in a refreshingly cold watering hole, and a relaxing massage. But I wasn’t receiving these amenities. Elderly elephants were. And I was one of several tourists paying for the privilege of

doting on them. At the Mondulkiri Project, it’s not the people who call the shots, but the elephants. Visitors from all over the world come here for the chance to interact with the behemoth creatures by washing them, feeding them, playing with them and, of course, getting selfies with them. One thing that doesn’t happen: riding on the anPHOTO © PETRA CHRISTEN

In a sanctuary for Cambodian elephants that formerly worked for timber companies or as tourist attractions, volunteers can get “up close and personal” with the animals, helping clean, feed and bathe them.

imals’ backs. Named for Cambodia’s most sparsely populated province, the Mondulkiri Project aims to act as a sanctuary for elephants that previously worked for timber companies or as attractions in the tourist hub of Siem Reap, home to the Angkor Wat site. The Mondulkiri Project also seeks to give the local indigenous population, called the Bunong, opportunities for jobs, as well as help in curtailing logging and promoting forest conservation. The Mondulkiri Project began in 2013, founded by the Tree family, who are not members of the Bunong community but who support the Bunongs with revenue from the Mondulkiri Project. The Tree

family offers trekking along with the elephant experiences, and they run Tree Lodge, a bare-bones but comfortable set of bungalows with magnificent views of the Cambodian countryside. During my stay, I joined several other tourists, both solo and group travelers, in cleaning and feeding the elephants. We also got an in-depth explanation of the project, its goals, and why preserving the area is important.

Hanging out with pachyderms Then came the fun part: getting up close and personal with the gigantic mammals. The See ELEPHANTS, page 46

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O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

PHOTO COURTESY OF SERIAN

The Pyramids of Life safari is a three-week immersive expedition through Kenya and Tanzania. Much longer than typical tourist safaris, the trip is actually designed to train safari guides.

Safari From page 44 “Being a guide makes me so happy,” said another guide, Judy Koya. “I knew when I was a child that I wanted this [she gestures at the surrounding plains] to be my office.” At night, we congregated around a fire, discussing the wonders of the day. “Imagine this was how field trips were conducted when you were a kid in school,” said cosafari guide trainer Clint Schipper. “You’d never want to leave.” As he spoke, a bonfire burned in front of me, a starry sky glittered above, and my

Elephants From page 45 elephants spend all their time in a protected area of the forest, with local guides watching over them. The elephants were friendly, hungry and eager to interact with us. For the humans, there was a lunch of rice, vegetables, meat and iced coffee. Then an English-speaking Bunong guide led us on an easy trek through the lush jungles as we headed to a chilly watering hole to wash one of the creatures. More photo opportunity than actual cleansing, the elephant seemed to enjoy getting his back scratched and didn’t mind the picture-taking. We all had the same post-cleansing goal anyway: a nap.

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mind filled with images of the hippos, crocodiles and cheetah we’d seen that day. The night surrounded us with a cacophony of sounds — insects buzzing, birds calling. Schipper was right: This was the ultimate school field trip, and I didn’t ever want to leave. Pyramids of Life is offered annually for three weeks in March, though guests can sign up for shorter periods. Walker’s tour company also offers camping, safari and fly fishing adventures year round. See http://serian.com/we-call-it-home/masaimara-kenya/serian-the-original/

To learn more Mondulkiri Province is located about five hours by minivan from Cambodia’s capital of Phnom Penh and about 10 hours by minivan from Siem Reap. For further information, see the website of the Mondulkiri Project at www.mondulkiriproject.org. One day “elephant adventure tour” for $50. Two days, including spending the night in a hammock and a day-long jungle trek, for $75. The Elephant Valley Project, www.elephantvalleyproject.org, offers similar tours and opportunities. One day for $85 ($55 if you spend part of the day volunteering). Two, three and five-day options also available. — AP

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Leisure & Travel

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6

Consumers win a few with new airline law The current FAA reauthorization bill, as Marie Antoinette: Let them buy expensive agreed to by both the Senate and the tickets. House, contains some unexpected good news for conHow will it be enforced? sumers. The bill directs: As is all too often the case • The Department of Transwith government-dictated soportation to establish a relutions, the requirements in quirement that children under the FAA bill are easier to state age 13 “be seated in a seat adjathan to implement. cent to the seat of an accompaHow do airlines cope with nying family member over the varying family sizes, for exage of 13” at no additional cost. ample? Because most of The bill includes a few spetoday’s domestic flights operTRAVEL TIPS cial-case exemptions, but the ate with planes offering threeBy Ed Perkins base result is clear: As soon as three seating, presumably a the DOT establishes its requirements — family of three would get a three-seat unit and airlines figure out how to implement to themselves, and a family of four would them — a family will no longer have to be split with one parent and one child ocshell out advance seat assignment fees to cupying two of the three seats in one row, with the other parent and child in a differbe able to sit together on a flight. • The Transportation Security Agency ent row. to boost use of the PreCheck program, And although it’s easy enough to tell the keep PreCheck lines open during peak TSA to “speed up the lines,” without lots travel times, and make “every practicable more staffing and, in many places, lots more effort” to speed up the screening process equipment and lots more airport space, when PreCheck is closed. speeding up the lines represents a daunting • The DOT to create a rule that re- problem for even the most highly motivated quires airlines to refund any baggage- officials. I’m not holding my breath until the check fees when they can’t re-unite own- screening process improves. ers with their misdirected baggage within The easiest requirement to follow is the 12 hours after arrival on a domestic flight, one on baggage fees. My own take is that 15 hours on an international flight. the proposed requirement is far too lax. An The airlines reacted with their pre- airline should refund the fee if your bag dictable whines about “re-regulation” and isn’t at the baggage claim within an hour “let the marketplace decide.” But no mat- after you arrive. But, as consumers, we’ve ter how strongly you support free markets, learned to be happy with what we can get. by now you’ve realized that the airlines have nobody but themselves to blame for Ticket change fees the regulatory proposals that keep coming As I look at air travel, the most serious from frustrated consumers. ongoing consumer abuse is the outraBecause the indisputable fact remains geous and often punitive charge to change that no matter what the issue — be it seri- a ticket. The idea of charging to change a ous or trivial, and regardless of the specific nonrefundable ticket was reasonable when complaints — the airlines have done noth- it started at around $25 to $50, but now ing to provide a market solution. And to rub that it is almost always at least $200 (and it in a bit, their typical responses channel often up to $700), that fee is nothing more

than a gouge that all too frequently amounts to piling-on consumers whose travel plans have already been thwarted. Many consumer advocates would say that top priority should go to establishing minimal seat legroom and width standards. That’s a little tougher: Roomier seats mean fewer seats in a plane, and fewer seats mean higher fares.

You, as consumers, have shown that you will put up with the worst cattle car seating to knock a few bucks off the fare, so be careful what you wish for in the matter of seat standards. Send e-mail to Ed Perkins at eperkins@mind.net. Also, check out Ed’s new rail travel website at www.rail-guru.com. © 2016 Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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BEACON BITS

Oct. 5+

FREE MOVIE AND SAFETY INFORMATION

Join Montgomery County Police Department for a morning of safety information, and a free movie. See The Martian on Wednesday, Oct. 5 at 9:45 a.m., at Arc Light Cinema at Montgomery Mall, 7101 Democracy Blvd., Bethesda, Md. On Wednesday, Nov. 2, the movie will be Brooklyn. For more information, contact Officer Stroman at the 2nd District Police Station at (240) 773-6727 or Officer Janney at (240) 773-6728.

More fun things to do? Call 311 to Get it Done! Tweet @311MC311 Visit MC311.com Call 240-777-0311

More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Style Arts &

The new National Museum of African American History and Culture is now open on the National Mall. See story on page 52.

Old habits get new twist in Sister Act

Raising their voices But there’s no repressing Deloris’s spirit, as she asks if there’s a smoking section

of the nun’s dining room (“Yes, dear, and you’re headed for it,” quips Mother Superior), dashes across the street to the diner for a beer, habit flapping in the breeze, and revs up the church’s choir from 33 rpm to 45. She renames herself Mary Clarence, only to be told by Mother Superior that Clarence was the patron saint of prisoners. Much of the action — and hilarity — comes from Deloris’s interaction with the choir. She wrests control of the singing from its bespeckled leader Mary Lazarus, and suddenly the choir is clapping and swaying and singing its new anthem, “Raise Your Voice.” She implores them to lift their voices to heaven as well as to more secular realms: “Raise a sweat! Raise a cheer! Raise it to the stratosphere.” Church pews slide in on wheels, and a disco ball descends, its lights flashing little white angels that revolve around the room. But Mary Clarence gets the nuns a bit too much notoriety with the choir’s newfound prowess. First they’re on the radio, and before they know it, Pope Paul VI is planning a visit. And that means Curtis and his gang aren’t far behind. Luckily, Deloris has a timid police officer

PHOTO COURTESY OF TOBY’S DINNER THEATRE

By Barbara Ruben Disco balls, gold lamé, and fun with nuns. That’s what Toby’s Dinner Theatre serves up in an uproarious production of Sister Act. The musical version of the 1992 movie that starred Whoopi Goldberg transplants the action to late ‘70s Philadelphia, where the sisters of the Queen of Angels Church line dance Saturday Night Fever style. While the setting of the musical, which premiered in London in 2009 and Broadway in 2011, has changed, the plot remains much the same. Diva wannabe Deloris Van Cartier dreams of hitting the big time. Instead, the Mob puts a hit on her after she witnesses a murder. No matter that Deloris is the mistress of shiny-suited gangster Curtis Jackson, who now wants her dead. The police place Deloris in a witness protection program of sorts — disguised as one of the sisters in a shapeless black habit and white wimple in a convent filled with nuns who warble off key.

Surrounded by dancing altar boys, Sister Mary Lazarus, played by Lynne Sigler, gets into the swing of things as choir director in the production of Sister Act now at Toby’s Dinner Theatre. The musical, based on the movie, is about a murder witness who shakes things up when she hides in a convent.

who harbors a crush on her. But will “Sweaty” Eddie be too nervous to save her?

Spirited cast Ashley Johnson, who also starred in Toby’s productions of Memphis and The Wiz, lends her powerhouse voice to Deloris — whether she is praising the Lord or look-

ing to escape the confines of the Queen of Angels. Her vocals do just what two of Sister Act’s major anthems ask: “Take Me to Heaven” and “Raise Your Voice.” Her infectious energy infuses the show, from the first scene in a disco with her See SISTER ACT, page 50

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WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Arts & Style

How ‘Summer in the City’ got its sound Retired DJ and English teacher Randal C. Hill introduces readers to the hits of half a century ago in a feature he calls “It was 50 years ago today,” borrowing from the Beatles’ “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band.” Here he examines the roots of the Lovin’ Spooful’s 1966 hit “Summer in the City.” The weary old radio sound man scratched his head. Those scraggly hippie musicians had requested his entire sound effects collection of traffic noises. They had even asked him to include the sound of a jackhammer. They said all the noise would show up on their next record. The elderly gentleman rolled his eyes. Whatever happened to normal music? And just what kind of oddball name was the “Lovin’ Spoonful,” anyway? Harmonica player/autoharpist John Sebastian and guitarist Zal Yanovsky had played in a bohemian Greenwich Village jug band/folk group called the Mugwumps, which coincidentally included future Mamas and Papas members Cass Elliot and Denny Doherty.

Seeking a new direction, John and Zal eventually left that band, recruited drummer/vocalist Joe Butler and bassist Steve Boone, and formed the Lovin’ Spoonful. For the name, Sebastian had lifted a lyric phrase from “Coffee Blues,” an obscure song by an old bluesman named Mississippi John Hurt. After gigging in New York City clubs for awhile, the bluesy folkies signed with the fledgling Kama Sutra Records label and quickly found success when the group racked up five Top Ten singles in as many releases. Now pressure was on to keep the winning streak alive. No problem. To the Lovin’ Spoonful, “Summer in the City” had “hit” written all over it. The future classic had begun as a freshman English class poem written by the younger brother of Spoonful leader John Sebastian. Mark Sebastian had been discouraged by the “F” grade the poem had earned him, but he thought John might be able to do something with the words — lyrics about a young city guy being out on

a summer night. The elder Sebastian said he’d take a look, but later saw only two lines he really liked: But at night it’s a different world Go out and find a girl Working with Steve Boone, John fashioned the poem into a winning musical composition that included the novelty of urban sound effects. “We listened for hours to various traffic jam noises and car horns, and selected the ones we wanted,” Sebastian explained to Fred Bronson in The Billboard Book of Number One Hits. “We found [the sound of] a pneumatic hammer to provide for that section and put it all together.” “Summer in the City” proved to be an-

other winner for the Big Apple boys. Musicologist Toby Cresswell, in his book 1001 Songs, enthuses, “The pounding bass and drums with staccato organ jabs build an intense mood that’s shattered by the sound effects of jackhammers and car horns. This really is the sound of the city, and the promise of excitement and adventure to be had in the streets and nightclubs.” “Summer in the City” gave the Lovin’ Spoonful its sixth winning single — and its only Number One release. There’s no way to calculate just how much the added sound effects contributed to the million-seller’s popularity. Maybe not much, really. For all the time and effort spent on the project, the entire gimmick lasts all of eight seconds.

Something to sell or rent? Place a classified ad. They work!

Ricardo Morales

CLARINET DAY SUNDAY, OCT. 16, 3 P.M. U.S. Navy Concert Band featuring Ricardo Morales Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center Northern Virginia Community College Alexandria, Va. All concerts are FREE and open to the public. No tickets required. For our full performance calendar, visit our website.

Arts & Style | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

Sister Act From page 48 gold jump-suited backup singers, to the closing flamboyant and sparkling spectacle in the church. She gets some help from composer Alan Menken, whose other shows include Beauty and the Beast, Little Shop of Horrors and Newsies, and who collaborated on The Little Mermaid with Sister Act lyricist Glenn Slater. Some of the fun also comes from writers Cherie and Bill Steinkellner, who also lent their comedic talents to TV’s “Cheers.”

The cadre of sisters also adds to the glee. There’s young postulate Sister Mary Robert, played with wide-eyed innocence by Theresea Danskey, and Sister Mary Lazarus, aptly named, on the other end of the age spectrum, who is deftly portrayed by Lynne Sigler. She transitions from stern old-school choral leader to sprightly disco-era choir convert during the show. And speaking of age, unlike many musicals, Toby’s has filled several other roles with agile over-50 actors. These include a no-nonsense Mother Superior who harbors a heart of gold (Lynn Sharp-Spears) and Monsignor O’Hara (Robert John Bie-

O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

dermann; look for him pulling double duty as the emcee before the show). Another standout is younger cast member Hassani Allen, who gives crooning cop Sweaty Eddie a bashful charm as he woos Deloris and pledges to protect her. And DeCarlo Raspberry, as Deloris’s nefarious boyfriend, has all too few solos that feature his deep, smooth voice. Minimalist scenery rolls on and off the stage in the center of Toby’s (which doubles as the floor where dinner is served before the show). There are a few wooden dining tables and a confession booth. A table and telephone roll in to serve as the police station. Stained glass windows surround the perimeter of the theater. Co-costume designers Lawrence B. Munsey (who also directs) and Mary Quinn have a field day delving into 1970s styles. Deloris covets a white fox fur like Donna Summer’s (which she gets in the

final scene) and jump- and leisure suits abound. The nun’s habits get more flashy as the show goes on, moving from somber black tied with a rope belt, to crimson, to a shimmering, light-catching fashion extravaganza in the finale that is nothing short of heavenly. Sister Act continues at Toby’s Dinner Theatre through Nov. 20. Ticket prices (which include all-you-can-eat dinner or champagne brunch) are $59 Sunday through Thursday evenings and for Wednesday matinees. Friday evening performances are $60.50 and Saturday evening $62. To buy tickets, call (301) 596-6161 or order online through Ticketmaster at www.ticketmaster.com/venue/172479. Learn more about the show at www.tobysdinnertheatre.com. The theater is located at 5900 Symphony Woods Rd., Columbia, Md.

BEACON BITS

Oct. 15

FEDERAL FASHION LECTURE The DAR Library presents “Federal Style in the Federal City,” a

free lecture on Saturday, Oct. 15 from 10 to 11 a.m. In this illustrated lecture, see what people were wearing in Washington during the Federal era (the early days of the new nation). This lecture will take place in the NOC Assembly room at DAR headquarters, located at 1776 D St. NW, Washington, D.C. For more information, visit http://bit.ly/FederalClothingLecture.

GROUPS of 20 or more save! November 18–December 3 Eisenhower Theater

Photo by Jan Versweyveld

Andrus Nichols and Frederick Weller in the Young Vic production of A View From the Bridge

ALL SHOWS IN THE 2016-2017 SEASON ARE ON SALE TO GROUPS NOW! KENNEDY-CENTER.ORG GROUPS CALL (202) 416-8400 Tickets also available at the Box Office. (202) 467-4600 For all other ticket-related customer service inquiries, call the Advance Sales Box Office at (202) 416-8540

Theater at the Kennedy Center is made possible by

Kennedy Center Theater Season Sponsor

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Arts & Style

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6

Simone Lamsma March 3

Love Matinees? The National Symphony Orchestra’s wildly popular Coffee Concerts on select Fridays return for a second season!

Emanuel Ax October 7

Jeremy Denk January 13

Christoph Eschenbach March 17

COFFEE CONCERTS AT 11:30 A.M. Shakespeare at the Symphony: Ax plays Beethoven Juraj Valcˇuha, conductor Emanuel Ax, piano

Beethoven Piano Concerto No. 1 Korngold Much Ado About Nothing Suite Dvorˇák Othello R. Strauss Macbeth

October 7, 2016

The Wonder of It All! Stravinsky’s The Firebird Ravel’s “Left Hand” Concerto

Brahms’s Second Symphony Shostakovich’s First Violin Concerto

Bruckner’s First Symphony Mozart’s Third Violin Concerto

Bach’s Brandenburg Concerto No. 1 Handel’s Music for the Royal Fireworks

Sir Mark Elder, conductor Jeremy Denk, piano

Jaap van Zweden, conductor Simone Lamsma, violin

Christoph Eschenbach, conductor Nurit Bar-Josef, violin

Ton Koopman, conductor

Rimsky-Korsakov The Legend of the Invisible City of Kitezh and the Maiden Fevroniya Suite Ravel Piano Concerto for the Left Hand Stravinsky The Firebird

Shostakovich Violin Concerto No. 1 Brahms Symphony No. 2

Mozart Violin Concerto No. 3 Bruckner Symphony No. 1

March 3, 2017

March 17, 2017

J. S. Bach Orchestral Suite No. 3 Brandenburg Concerto No. 1 Handel Concerto a due cori No. 3 Music for the Royal Fireworks

May 19, 2017

January 13, 2017

TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

KENNEDY-CENTER.ORG (202) 467-4600 Tickets also available at the Box Office. Groups call (202) 416-8400. For all other ticket-related customer service inquiries, call the Advance Sales Box Office at (202) 416-8540.

David and Alice Rubenstein are the Presenting Underwriters of the NSO. The NSO Music Director Chair is generously endowed by Victoria and Roger Sant.

Purchase breakfast the morning of your concert! Join your friends for coffee and a la carte continental breakfast in the KC Café beginning at 10 a.m. before attending the 11:30 concert together!

Arts & Style | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Conveying the African American experience By Charlie Wright and Maya Pottiger Resilience is a key theme for the newest Smithsonian creation, the National Museum of African American History and Culture. The museum, which opened on the National Mall on Sept. 24, has been in the works for 13 years, but has been an idea for decades. Congressman John Lewis (DGa.) first heard initial talk of the museum when he was elected to Congress in 1986, according to the civil rights icon’s recent piece in the Washington Post. For 15 years, Lewis fought to pass legislation to create the museum, introducing it at every session of Congress. Finally, on Dec. 16, 2003, President George W. Bush signed Lewis’ dream into law. “I knew that if I was persistent and consistent, I would at least play my role well in

this effort, but at most I could win a victory for humanity,” Lewis said in his article. A throng of 30,000 people helped dignitaries dedicate the $540 million museum almost in the shadow of the Washington Monument. They were led by President Barack Obama, First Lady Michelle Obama, Bush and former First Lady Laura Bush. Members of the Supreme Court and Congress attended, as well as Oprah Winfrey and many other prominent African Americans. “The thing about this museum is that it’s ... more than just telling stories about the famous. It’s not just about the icons,” Obama said at a White House reception celebrating the museum. “What makes the museum so powerful and so visceral is that it’s the story of all of us, the folks whose names you never heard

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of, but whose contributions, day after day, decade after decade, combined to push us forward and the entire nation forward,” Obama said, mentioning maids, porters and others who stood up for themselves despite daily assaults on their dignity. The museum tells the history of the African American people in astounding detail. There are artifacts from every era — whips from the slave trade, to glossy magazine covers adorned with Obama’s smile. “We felt it was crucial to craft a museum that would help America remember and confront its tortured racial past,” said museum Founding Director Lonnie Bunch. “But we also thought while America should ponder the pain of racial segregation, it also had to find the joy, the hope, the resiliency, the spirituality that was endemic in this community.” The resilience of the African American people is portrayed on all four levels of the building, with the exhibits ascending chronologically, starting with slavery and ending at the present day.

Tracing history The history galleries make up the first three concourses. Museum-goers begin their visit in the basement. Maps painted on the walls depict the routes of the transatlantic slave ships, and glass cases hold priceless artifacts. Among them are Harriett Tubman’s

shawl and hymn book; shackles used on an enslaved child; a “pocket copy” of the Emancipation Proclamation that soldiers read from when delivering the news of freedom to the U.S. Colored Troops; and the freedom papers that former slave Joseph Trammell carried. After walking through the dark hallways, visitors enter an open room, greeted by the Declaration of Independence and statues of notable founders. One statue depicts Benjamin Banneker, an African American born in Baltimore County who was called on to help design Washington, D.C. The third floor features the Community galleries, which highlight the successes of African Americans despite limited opportunities. This area houses one of several interactive elements, titled the Hometown Hub. This multimedia exhibit allows viewers to scroll through stories about regional movement and settlement of African Americans through the past few centuries. Around the hub are individual projects focusing on African American culture and heritage in 10 major U.S. cities. The displays focus on major events in those cities, including one on the Tulsa riots of 1921. “This exhibition explores the development of that community and its destruction,” said John Franklin, the senior manager in the museum’s Office of External Affairs. See NEW MUSEUM, page 53

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Arts & Style

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6

New museum From page 52 “We’ve had to obtain artifacts, documents and oral histories from individuals and institutions in order to construct the story.”

Athletic triumphs and current culture Athletics make their most prominent appearance on this floor, with an entire section devoted to the triumphs of African American sports heroes. This exhibit includes equipment used by gymnast Gabby Douglas in the 2012 Olympics, and gold medals from Carl Lewis’ illustrious track and field career. The sports gallery stresses the importance of athletics in the progression of civil rights, as the sports realm was one of the first to accept African Americans as equals. Current culture dominates the final floor, as photographs of modern celebrities, political figures and famous musicians cover the walls and displays. The musical artifacts span generations — from singer Marian Anderson’s outfit from her historic 1939 concert at the Lincoln Memorial, to Chuck Berry’s red Cadillac. Exhibits depict the connection between music and cultural development, as well as the relationship between musical tradition and social change. Moving to the big screen, the gallery transitions to popular and groundbreaking African Americans in television and

BEACON BITS

Oct. 22

VOLUNTEERFEST VolunteerFest, a fami-

ly-friendly event that mobilizes volunteers to help the community, will take place on Saturday, Oct. 22. Learn about a variety of tasks, in various locations in Northern Virginia, with morning, afternoon and evening shifts available. The event takes place rain or shine. Volunteer service hours are available. For information or to register, visit www.volunteerfairfax.org/ individuals/volunteerfest.php.

Ongoing

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED Montgomery County

RSVP is looking for senior volunteers to help the local community. The organization helps members find the right opportunity, and volunteers receive complimentary automobile, liability and injury insurance while volunteering. For more information, contymd.gov or (240) 777-2610.

tact RSVP at rsvp@montgomerycoun-

movies. Actor Denzel Washington is depicted in the hospital drama “St. Elsewhere,” next to a photo of the cast of the 1970s sitcom “Good Times.” Displays explain how African American performers broke down barriers in pop culture and opened doors for other minorities. The First Family makes several appearances in the political section of the gallery, with photographs of Obama as a child, and a dress worn by the First Lady for the 50th anniversary of the March on Washington. Other notable African American politicians are mentioned, including a large photo of Jesse Jackson during his presidential run in 1988. Advance timed passes to the museum are completely booked until the end of the year, but the museum is making some timed same-day passes available. Four, free timed passes per visitor can be obtained in person at the museum on the same day of your visit. Passes are distrib-

uted on a first-come, first-served basis by the Visitor Services staff starting at 9:15 a.m. The National Museum of African American History and Culture is located at 1400 Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, D.C., between Madison and Constitution Avenues and 14th and 15th Streets, NW,

Washington, D.C. It is open every day but Christmas, from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. There are two entrances to the Museum: one on Madison Avenue and another on Constitution Avenue. For more information, call the toll-free number 1-844-7503012 or see https://nmaahc.si.edu. — Capital News Service via AP

BEACON BITS

Oct. 9

TECH SEMINAR There will be a technology seminar café for seniors on Sunday, Oct. 9 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Leisure World’s Clubhouse 2,

3300 N. Leisure World Blvd., Silver Spring, Md. Teen volunteers will show seniors how to use their mobile devices. For more information or to register, call Clubhouse 2 at (301) 598-1320 and mention the Tech Cafe. A second seminar will take place on Sunday, Nov. 13 from noon to 2 p.m. at Young Israel Shomrai Emunah, located at 1132 Arcola Ave., Silver Spring, Md. For more information or to register, email srelkin@awsllc.com. Bring a charged laptop, cellphone or other mobile device, plus your passwords, to either event.

Arts & Style | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Advice for staying married for 37+ years Our son was two weeks away from getting married. He’s the first of our two children to tie the knot. Nothing makes a fossil feel quite as hopeful or quite as proud. Unless it’s this: He asks to have lunch, just the two of us. He wants to know how his mother and I have stayed married for going-on 37 years. Only one other person has ever asked me that — a never-married colleague of my wife’s who had consumed three stiff drinks (maybe it was four). “I mean, don’t you get bored after a while?,” my colleague wanted to know. “It’s never boring if you don’t let it be,” I replied. He scoffed — and ordered another drink. Our son wasn’t scoffing. He said that, on the verge of the vows, he felt as if he was peering down into the Grand Canyon. He

FROM PAGE 56 ANSWERS TO SCRABBLE

said he needed my advice. “There are so many unknowns,” he said. “And so many unknowables,” I replied. But there are also so many knowables, I quickly added. Here’s the list I gave him over the next 40 minutes. Yes, he wrote it all down. He’s the child of two scribes, after all. Never let money take on more importance than it deserves: This assumes you will always have enough of it, I acknowledged. But even if you don’t, I told him, it’s just money. The hallmark of your relationship will be the ability to climb any mountain, ford any stream. Don’t let money become Everest, or the Pacific. Never go to bed angry: I realize that every moldy magazine in every moldy doctor’s office makes the same suggestion, I told him. But it’s very important to learn

ANSWERS TO CROSSWORD E A R T H A L O H A R E D O C T K I P A B O O L A R K S S T A T U S O C T O B E H E B N E L D O P E R A C R A F T Y C O V E O G U S E S A R E S T

A T O N A L R Y E S C O N

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

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Never make a big decision without how to argue fairly, and to argue with an end to the argument in mind. Otherwise, consulting her first: Yes, there may be times when the boss is standyou will fray the basic fiber of ing right next to you, waiting the relationship over disagreefor you to decide — right that ments that are really quite instant — whether you will petty. Kiss and make up. And move to Manitoba to head up be willing to admit that you’re the branch office there. Put wrong. him off. She’s more imporNo secrets, ever: In fact, I tant than he is. said, you should bend over If you need some alone backwards to provide full disclotime, say so. And similarly, if sure, even if the info isn’t flattershe says so, always honor this. ing. “You mean you told Mom HOW I SEE IT You will never know her emothat you crack your back every By Bob Levey tional boundaries as well as morning, and she married you she does. Respect that. If she says she’s teeanyway?,” he asked. “She must have found tering, get out of her way. something else to adore,” I theorized. Decide how to raise your children beBut seriously…. I’d be very much against separate checking accounts (we’ve fore you have any. I’m not talking just never had them), I said. I’d be very much about religion, or private-vs.-public school, I against separate vacations (we’ve done that said. You should agree on never letting your only once, and it wasn’t great). I’d be very kids play divide-and-conquer, never letting much in favor of accounting for all your them do anything aggressive or dangerous, time, every day (we do that every couple of how and when to discipline them, even what hours). This is a lifelong partnership, I you’ll let them call you. “The less you decide said. It isn’t an extended date. You’ve got to on the fly, when everyone’s older, tired, in a hurry and under pressure, the better,” I said. be ready to meet in the middle, always. And most important, listen. Talking Be sure that you agree about politics: The groom-to-be assured me that is easy, I observed. Putting down the crossthey had checked this box. “I’m not just word puzzle and really lending a caring ear talking about donkeys and elephants,” I is much harder. This isn’t just a favor said. “Be sure that you’ve discussed hard- you’re doing for your spouse. It’s bedrock. Our son thanked me and said the Grand er issues, like providing for aging parents and end-of-life care. You don’t want sur- Canyon didn’t seem quite so vast. I replied that there was just one more thing I wanted prises about big stuff.” Always go out of your way to say some- to add. I cracked my back. “Forgot to do that thing nice: “I guarantee you that there will be mornings when she doesn’t think she this morning,” I said. “Wow, am I glad I’m not going to marry looks great,” I said. Always say she looks teryou,” our son said. rific. She might not always believe you, but “Don’t try,” I said. “I’m taken.” it’s a ton better than agreeing that a dress Bob Levey is a national award-winning makes her look fat. Then you become the columnist. issue.

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Arts & Style

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6

Emanuel Ax October 6–8

Cirque de la Symphonie Halloween Extravaganza October 13–16

Shakespeare at the Symphony: Ax plays Beethoven

Duruflé’s Requiem Debussy Préludes & Nocturnes

Juraj Valcˇuha, conductor Emanuel Ax, piano

Donald Runnicles, conductor Sasha Cooke, mezzo-soprano Christian Bowers, baritone University of Maryland Concert Choir, Edward Maclary, director

Beethoven Piano Concerto No. 1 Korngold Much Ado About Nothing Suite Dvorˇák Othello R. Strauss Macbeth

October 6–8

COFFEE CONCERT Oct. 7 at 11:30 a.m.

Benedetti plays Marsalis Tchaikovsky’s “Polish” Symphony Christoph Eschenbach, conductor Nicola Benedetti, violin Tchaikovsky Polonaise from Eugene Onegin W. Marsalis Violin Concerto (East Coast premiere) Tchaikovsky Symphony No. 3, “Polish”

October 27 & 29 Oct. 27: AfterWords free post-concert discussion

Cirque de la Symphonie Halloween Extravaganza Stuart Chafetz, conductor

Debussy Four Préludes (orch. Colin Matthews) Debussy Three Nocturnes Duruflé Requiem

Join Cirque de la Symphonie for tons of spooky fun with jugglers, aerialists, contortionists, strongmen, and more, bringing the music of the symphony to life in unique and delightful ways.

November 10–12

E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial Film with Live Music

Nov. 10: Organ Postlude free post-concert mini-recital

Dvorˇák’s “New World” Symphony Tchaikovsky’s Rococo Variations Krzysztof Urban´ski, conductor Johannes Moser, cello Kilar Orawa Tchaikovsky Variations on a Rococo Theme Dvorˇák Symphony No. 9, “From the New World”

October 13–16

Steven Reineke, conductor Experience Steven Spielberg’s award-winning “children’s classic of the space age” (The New York Times) as never before on a big screen, with John Williams’s soaring Oscar®-winning score performed live by the NSO Pops. Bring popcorn, drinks, and snacks from the intermission bars into the Concert Hall to complete this totally unique cinematic experience.

November 25 & 26

November 17 & 19

A Salute to Slava Shakespeare at the Symphony: Noseda conducts Prokofiev’s Romeo and Juliet Gianandrea Noseda, conductor Prokofiev Romeo and Juliet

November 3–5

TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

David and Alice Rubenstein are the Presenting Underwriters of the NSO. The NSO Music Director Chair is generously endowed by Victoria and Roger Sant. The Blue Series is sponsored by United Technologies Corporation.

FRIDAY MORNING COFFEE CONCERTS Join your friends for coffee and a la carte continental breakfast in the KC Café beginning at 10 a.m. before attending the 11:30 concert together!

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O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Crossword Puzzle

PUZZLE PAGE

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GET THE FACTS ABOUT

ACTIVE RETIREMENT LIVING

at Ashby Ponds, Greenspring, or Riderwood.

Prefix 8, Month 10

Call 1-877-575-0231 or visit EricksonLiving.com to request your FREE brochure! See our ad on page B-5.

11558922

By Stephen Sherr 7

21 27

38 43

50 55

46 48

42 45

Scrabble answers on p. 54.

28 33

51 56

57 61

Across 1. Planet of the Apes planet 6. Elementary particle 10. 18 of the numbers on a roulette wheel 14. Greeting at Wai’anapanapa State Park 15. Make an A Sharp be sharp 16. Native Canadian 17. Tom Clancy’s sub-mission 19. Spilled the beans 20. Those with similar DNA 21. Gain survival skills 23. “Peek ___, I see you” 27. Beyond the ___ (unacceptable) 30. More competent 31. Carefree escapades 33. Find the treasure 35. Homeland Security ranks it from Low to Severe 37. “There was never a good war, ___ bad peace” (Ben Franklin) 38. Greek letter that looks like a “P” 41. Unexpected electoral influencer 45. One of two official languages of Isr. 46. Bill ___, the Science Guy 47. Like three ends of a trident 48. First-born 51. Actress Dickinson 52. It’s over when the fat lady sings 55. Monitor the pasta 57. Fishing supplies 58. Effective at deception (or popsicle stick sculptures) 60. It can deflower a virgin daiquiri 62. Coastal inlet 63. Eight-siders 70. Activates the Force 71. Inside the goal posts 72. Hotel parking option 73. Musical pause 74. Pay to play 75. Half full or half ___? Down 1. Mr. Potato Head accessory 2. Brewpub offering

3. Todd Flanders’ big brother 4. However, briefly 5. Cough repeatedly 6. Having missing keys 7. Butter holder 8. The loneliest number 9. ___ mortals 10. It could be made from opal or tourmaline 11. Like Alfred Hitchcock’s TV intros 12. Look into closely 13. Passover meal 18. One end of a pencil 22. Winery tank 23. And another thing... 24. Set of cookies 25. Speak to a crowd 26. Bavarian bash 28. Having the best payout odds in the slots room 29. Beige shade 32. In some regions, it is called a hero or hoagie 34. Ironically, 45% of its members are employed 36. Release an e-mail draft 39. Be contingent upon 40. Old Roman port 42. Reuben outsides, usually 43. Power of Attorney, briefly 44. Suspicious observer 49. Long. crosser 50. Long cross speech 52. Come to pass 53. Plain text, often from amateurs 54. Roof overhangs 56. Toupee 59. Stretchy pants activity 61. Stop playing freeze tag 64. Bamboozle 65. Babysitter’s responsibility 66. Apocalypse Now setting 67. The Sound of Music setting 68. Tennis do-over 69. Hog’s home

Answers on page 54.

Answer: What the crook discovered when the police dog caught him -- THE LAW HAS TEETH Jumbles: GAWKY ABASH CLOTHE EXCITE

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6

Letters to editor From page 2 There is no guilt “on both sides” when a police officer shoots a 12-year-old playing with a toy gun within 30 seconds of arriving on the scene; when a police officer kills an unarmed man who is running away; or when a police officer kills a driver who is not resisting in any way during a traffic stop. Even in ambiguous cases, police have a special responsibility to protect the basic right to life of all citizens, including criminal suspects. This is the essence of due process and respect for the rule of law. Linda Rabben Takoma Park, Md. Dear Editor: On Sept. 11, I traveled from Baltimore to go to the Beacon 50+Expo at the Silver Spring Civic Center, which I learned about in the Beacon’s Baltimore edition. I am glad that I did. I was particularly interested in going to the Tech Cafe for mentoring by high school students about smartphones. I am delighted about my experience. The Tech Connect teens, the “green shirts,” were terrific in getting me started with smartphones. They defined terms associated with smartphones, explained the differences between the two operating systems, suggested what brands and price levels of smartphones would meet my needs, and mentioned stores where I could buy smartphones. They let me play with their smartphones, and I was able to take and keep videos. They were unconcerned when I inadvertently stored a photo of a certain presidential candidate on one of their smartphones. I was reassured that the photo could be easily deleted. I left feeling confident that I knew enough about smartphones that I could proceed to buying and using one. Thank you, Beacon, for Tech Cafe! Michael S. Altus Baltimore, Md. Dear Editor: On Oct. 1., the Chinese currency (the yuan; also called renminbi) will join the U.S. dollar, euro, Japanese yen and British pound as a major world currency recognized by the International Monetary Fund. That means the yuan will have equal footing with the U.S. dollar to be used in international financial transactions. This could have serious implications for all Americans. Over the past seven years, the U.S. has issued trillions of dollars of debt (much of it bought by China). But the more we increase our debt, particularly given our rapidly rising entitlement costs for a retiring generation of baby boomers, the more we risk the rest of the world turning from the “secure” dollar to other currencies like the yuan.

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Arts & Style

ONE BIG HAPPY By Rick Detorie

Five years ago, economist Barry Eichengreen wrote a book forecasting this very situation: Exhorbitant Privilege: The Rise and Fall of the Dollar and the Future of the International Monetary System. In it, he described several potential consequences, including a 20 percent fall in the value of the dollar, declining demand for U.S. debt, and a squeeze on our ability to maintain huge trade deficits. We consumers will feel these consequences in our own pockets and standards of living. It’s time we woke up and insisted that our government stop borrowing its way into oblivion. Now that the world has other options besides the dollar, we need to get our house in order, and quickly. Robert Leichter Silver Spring, MD

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WB 10/16

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CLASSIFIEDS The Beacon prints classified advertising under the following headings: Business & Employment Opportunities; Caregivers; Computer Services; Entertainment; For Sale; For Sale/Rent: Real Estate; Free; Health; Home/ Handyman Services; Miscellaneous; Personals; Personal Services; Vacation Opportunities; and Wanted. For submission guidelines and deadlines, see the box on page 59. 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 and Employment Opportunities EMPLOYMENT – EXPERIENCED OFFICERS needed by Alexandria Security Patrol. Armed and unarmed. DCJS 11-1027. Call 703765-0407.

Caregivers “A” HOME HEALTH CARE – Experienced nurses, CNA, GNA are available 24/7. Cooking, companionship, personal care, housekeeping, driving. Full/Part-time or live-in. Flat rate for live-in care. 15 years experience. 240-533-6599. PROFESSIONAL, EXPERIENCED, dependable, trustworthy, caring, energetic caregiver with training and excellent references will come to provide services for the elderly or children. Contact number 202-286-4168. LICENSED NURSE CAREGIVER seeks private duty nursing. Over 25 years experience. Excellent references. Available day or night. Please call Ms. Stanford at 240-351-7295. CAREGIVER ASSISTANCE provided by a person with nursing skills. Dependable, dedicated, caring and honest. 20 years experience. Cares for elderly and all ages. Will provide excellent references. Available for work immediately! If interested, please call Sheba at 301593-3129 or 240-441-5109. CNA/GNA (CERTIFIED) – Compassionate and caring. Over 10 years experience providing companionship, nursing care, daily needs, and will do shopping. Owns a car and is insured. Position: full-time/part-time. Excellent reference. Call Cheryl, 954-608-7376 or 301-288-4900. ELDERLY CARE – Seeking part-time elderly care on weekends. I drive, cook, clean and am very patient. Great organizer and experienced driver. Great references. Call Janie at 301-598-3627. EXPERIENCED CAREGIVERS – Caring, responsible, compassionate, patient and kind. Available days and nights. Tell: 703-894-7979. Tell: 202-549-4058. CHEVY CHASE HOME CARE – reliable certified caregivers at time of illness, infirmity, loneliness. Personal assistance, ALL AGES, 4- to 24-hour shifts, homes, hospitals, nursing homes. MD, DC, No. VA. Tel.: 202-374-1240. www.ChChHomecare.com.

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

O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Events

Miscellaneous

Wanted

AMELIA ISLAND, ST. AUGUSTINE + JACKSONVILLE, FL. Land Tour, June 1117, 2017. $575. Depart from Clinton fringe parking lot at 8:30 a.m. Price includes motor coach transportation, 6 nights lodging, 10 meals, guided tours of Amelia Island, St. Augustine, Jacksonville and much more. $75 deposit due upon signing. To register, call 301877-7953.

THE GOLDEN NETWORK offers Jewish seniors and retirees a variety of engaging programs, including lectures, classes, one-on-one learning in person and by phone, concerts, singalongs and more! For more information and details about upcoming events, call 301-732-1773, email info@goldennetwork.org, or see goldennetwork.org.

WE BUY GOLD AND SILVER JEWELRY. Costume too. Gold and silver coins, paper money, military, crocks, old bottles and jars, etc. Call Greg, 717-658-7954.

For Sale/Rent: Real Estate $725 SILVER SPRING/ASPEN HILL(Leisure World) – Nicely furnished room in lovely townhome in gated retirement community in Leisure World. Female only. Must be 55 years or older. Non-smoker. Available October 30th. $725 per month. Utilities included. Call Nancy at 301-5984433. NORTH POTOMAC VILLAGE CONDOMINIUM – Where can you find a 2BR/2FB apt. with a separate dining room, balcony, washer and dryer, and reserved garage parking in Montgomery County for $265,900? This 62-yearold-plus community lies in a wooded, tranquil setting and is conveniently located across from Kentlands. Michael Greenberg, Weichert, Realtors. 301-674-7928. LEISURE WORLD® –$175,000. 2 BR 2FB “GG” in the Greens, 2BR 2FB, New Paint, Enclosed balcony. 1195 sq ft. Stan Moffson, Weichert, Realtors. 301-928-3463. LEISURE WORLD® – $329,000. 2BR 2FB “QQ” in Vantage Point East. Open Table space kitchen, new paint, master bath with separate tub and shower, 1335 sq ft. Stan Moffson, Weichert, Realtors. 301-928-3463. LEISURE WORLD® – $200,000. 2BR 2FB “B” Model in “Overlook.” Recent paint and carpet, treetop and fountain view. 1035 sq ft. Stan Moffson, Weichert, Realtors. 301-928-3463. COMING SOON: LEISURE WORLD® – 2BR 2FB “J” Model, 3BR, 2FB, enclosed balcony with golf course view. 1560 sq ft. Stan Moffson, Weichert, Realtors. 301-928-3463. COMING SOON: LEISURE WORLD® – 2BR 2FB “B” in “Overlook” with Garage. Wood floors, upgraded baths, 1035 sq ft. Stan Moffson, Weichert, Realtors. 301-928-3463. LOOKING TO TAKE THE LEAP? I’ll take you on a tour of the community, show you floor plans, discuss campus amenities, & offer how to best coordinate your move. I will set up an automated online search for you, preview units, and contact you to arrange a showing when there is a match. I also offer exceptional service selling your home. I’m a Seniors Specialist, Buyer Broker, Top 1% of Agents Nationwide, and a Leisure World resident! You can see my current listings in this issue. Contact me: 301-580-5556, SueHeyman@aol.com, www.SueHeyman.com, Weichert Realtors. GET A FAST OFFER ON YOUR NOVA HOUSE today! We buy your house as is. No need to repair. No commissions. Free no-obligation consultation. Female owned, references. Call 703-969-5847 or email IBuyFairfaxHouses@gmail.com.

For Sale DISCOUNTED PRICE. Cemetery sites at Mt. Lebanon. Memorial Gardens in Adelphi, MD. 2 sites sold together at discount $1,500 or $900. Contact Mr. Harris, hsaaba@aol.com. Cell, 301655-0606. 2 SALVADOR DALI woodblock prints from Dante’s Divine Comedy. Signed and framed. Asking $900 for the pair. Can email pictures if desired. Call Steve, 410-913-1653.

Personal Services READY TO DE-CLUTTER? Sort, donate, discard. Reasonable rates. Call Jan, 301-933-7570. TURN YOUR STERLING SILVER and old gold jewelry into cash and do something good for yourself. I purchase gold and silver jewelry and coins for my company Gold 4 Good. I will come to your home and provide a no-fee, no-obligation estimate. If you decide to sell, I will transport you to and from my shop in Silver Spring. Local references. Montgomery County license #2327. Call Bob, 240-938-9694. VAN DRIVER – Honest man with van seeks driver/delivery employment full-time/part-time from business or individual. Ready. Call Joe at 240-506-8185.

Wanted WANTED: OLDER VIOLINS, Guitars, Banjos, Mandolins, etc. Musician/collector will pay cash for older string instruments. Jack, 301- 2792158. YOUR KIDS DON’T WANT YOUR STUFF. Sell your heirloom silver and gold jewelry and old coins. Licensed dealer in Silver Spring buys gold and silver. I will meet you at your home or bank, analyze your jewelry, or coins, and tell you how much I can pay if you should decide to sell. No fees or obligation. Call Bob, 240-938-9694. Gold 4 Good. 8241 Georgia Avenue, Silver Spring. License #2327. I have references. BUYING MILITARY MEMORABILIA WW2, WW1, Civil War uniforms, weapons, photos and items associated with US, German, Japanese or items of other Military History. DAVE, 240-4640958. HIGHEST CASH PAID FOR ANTIQUES, JEWELRY, ESTATES. I have been advertising in the Beacon for 20 years. Montgomery County resident – will travel to D.C., MD, VA. Buying following items: Furniture, art, jewelry, gold, sterling silver, old coins, vintage pocket and wrist watches, old tools, books, camera, military items – guns, rifles, knives, pocket knives, swords etc. Also buying: old toys, dolls, trains, comic books, photographs, autographs, musical instruments, guitars, violins, etc. Also old sports memorabilia and equipment – baseball, golf, football, fishing etc. Please call Tom at 240-4763441. CASH FOR ESTATE BUYOUTS, estate clean-outs, jewelry to furniture, one item or whole estate. Free Estimate, Will Travel. 301520-0755. CASH FOR JEWELRY: Buying jewelry, diamonds, gold, platinum, silver, watches, coins, flatware, etc. We make house calls. Ask for Tom. Call anytime 301-654-8678 or 301-654-0838.

WE BUY STERLING SILVER FLATWARE, tea sets, single pieces of silver, large pieces of silver plate. Attic, basement, garage. You have something to SELL, we like to BUY. Call Greg, 717-658-7954. STAMP COLLECTIONS, AUTOGRAPHS purchased/appraised – U.S., worldwide, covers, paper memorabilia. Stamps are my specialty – highest price paid! Appraisals. Phone Alex, 301309-3622. Stampex1@gmail.com. FINE ANTIQUES, PAINTINGS AND QUALITY VINTAGE FURNISHINGS wanted by a serious, capable buyer. I am very well educated [law degree], knowledgeable [over 40 years in the antique business] and have the finances and wherewithal to handle virtually any situation. If you have a special item, collection or important estate, I would like to hear from you. I pay great prices for great things in all categories from Oriental rugs to Tiffany objects, from rare clocks to firearms, from silver and gold to classic cars. If it is wonderful, I am interested. No phony promises or messy consignments. References gladly furnished. Please call Jake Lenihan, 301-2798834. Thank you. MILITARY ITEMS WANTED: Collector seeks to purchase military uniforms; flight jackets, patches, insignia, medals, etc. from the Civil War through Vietnam. Especially seeking U.S. Army Air Corps, USMC, Airborne, and German/Japanese/Italian items from WWII. ALSO BUYING old Boy Scout, Airline Items, Toys, Lighters. Call Dan, 202-841-3062. LADY WHO LOVES FINE CHINA and crystal would like to buy yours. Especially interested in figurines and dishes by the following makers: Herend, Lenox, Lladro, Meissen, Rosenthal, Royal Copenhagen, Shelley and Wedgwood. Baccarat, Lalique and Waterford stemware and miscellaneous. Bone china cups and saucers, quality dog and cat figurines and sterling silver flatware and hollowware also. (301) 785-1129. BUYING VINYL RECORDS from 1950 through 1985. Jazz, Rock-n-Roll, Soul, Rhythm & Blues, Reggae and Disco. 33 1/3 LPs, 45s or 78s, Larger collections of at least 100 items wanted. Please call John, 301-596-6201. COLLECTOR BUYING MILITARY ITEMS: Helmets, weapons, rifles, shot guns, knives, swords, bayonets, web gear, uniforms, etc. from all wars and countries. Large quantities are okay. Will pay top prices for my personal collection. Discreet consultations. Call Fred, 301-9100783. WE PAY CASH for antique furniture, quality used furniture, early American art, pottery, silver, glassware, paintings, etc. Single items to entire estates. Call Reggie or Phyllis at DC 202726-4427, MD 301-332-4697. GET A FAST OFFER ON YOUR NOVA HOUSE today! We buy your house as is. No need to repair. No commissions. Free no-obligation consultation. Female owned, references. Call 703-969-5847 or email IBuyFairfaxHouses@gmail.com.

BEACON BITS

Oct. 21+

GOLDSMITH EXHIBIT

The Washington Guild of Goldsmiths is showcasing their juried exhibition of the artists’ work at VisArts, on display from Friday, Oct. 21 through Sunday, Nov. 20. VisArts is located at 155 Gibbs St., Rockville, Md. Admission is free. For more information, visit www.visartsatrockville.org/more/event/the-washington-guild-of-goldsmiths or call (301) 315-8200.

Health PAID RESEARCH STUDY: Participants needed for hearing experiments conducted at the University of Maryland, College Park. We are seeking people ages 65-85 with normal hearing. Hearing evaluation included as part of the study. Participation time is 16 hours, with reimbursement of $12/hour. Contact The Hearing Brain Lab (301405-8362; hearingbrainlab@gmail.com). Please mention the “Neuroplasticity Study” when you contact us.

Oct. 14+

STUDIO ART TOUR

Join Great Falls Studio for a free self-guided art tour around the Great Falls area in Virginia from Friday, Oct. 14 through Sunday, Oct. 16 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Meet and begin the tour at Great Falls Community Library, located at 9830 Georgetown Pike; grab a brochure, and meet 58 participating studio member artists in 20 venues throughout the area. For more information or to download a brochure, visit http://www.greatfallsstudios.com.

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6

Say you saw it in the Beacon

BEACON BITS

Ongoing

VISITING VOLUNTEERS AARP’s Legal Counsel for the Elderly is looking for volunteers to visit homebound seniors in the District of Columbia. Volunteers who can serve as witnesses or notaries are particularly needed, as many clients wish to execute estate planning documents. Volunteers do not need to have a legal background. For more information, contact Vanessa Buchko at vbuchko@aarp.org or visit http://createthegood.org/volunteer/opportunitydetails/46858.

Oct. 14

FREE CHORAL SHOWCASE

University of Maryland presents a free showcase of their choral groups on Friday, Oct. 14 from 8 to 10 p.m. Choirs include the UMD Chamber Singers, University Choral, UMD Women’s Chorus, UMD Men’s chorus, Femmes de Chanson and Mannermusik. The concert will take place in the university’s Memorial Chapel, located on Regents Drive and Chapel Drive in College Park, Md. For more information, visit http://theclarice.umd.edu/events/2016/umdchoirs-showcase-concert.

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING RATES Deadlines and Payments: Ad text and payment is due by the 20th of each month. Note: Only ads received and prepaid by the deadline will be included in the next month’s issue. Please type or print your ad carefully. Include a number where you can be reached in the event of a question. Payment is due with ad. We do not accept ads by phone or fax, nor do we accept credit cards. Private Party Text Ads: For individuals seeking to buy or sell particular items, or place a personal ad. Each ad is $15 for 25 words, 25 cents for each additional word. Business Text Ads: For parties engaged in an ongoing business enterprise. Each ad is $35 for 25 words, 50 cents for each additional word. Note: Each real estate listing counts as one business text ad. Send your classified ad with check or money order, payable to the Beacon, to:

The Beacon, D.C. Classified Dept. P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915-2227 For information about display advertising, or to request a media kit, call (301) 949-9766.

ADVERTISERS IN THIS ISSUE Clinical Studies

Home Services

Center for Sleep & Wake Disorders ...............22, 24 Sleep Disorders Centers of the Mid-Atlantic ...............24 Virginia Integrative Health.......22

Conquer the Clutter..................10 Homefix Custom Remodeling ...........................39 In Order....................................12

Computer Classes JCA SeniorTech ......................7-9 TechMedic4U...........................10

Dental Services Friedman, Stephen, DDS .........28 Lee Dentistry............................20 Oh, Judy, DDS .........................52 Sklar, Andrew, DDS .................18

Financial Services Capital Bank...............................4 Children’s National Hospital....33 PENFED Credit Union ............32

Funeral Services Fram Monuments .....................33 Going Home Cremation...........34

Government Services DC Board of Elections .............26 DC Office on Aging ...........40-41 Health Insurance Assistance ...35 MC311 .....................................47 Montgomery County Aging and Disability Services ............3, 26

Hearing Services Mendelson Group.....................11

Home Health Care Best Senior Care . . . . . . . . . .B-4 CareLinx . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50 Elder Caring .............................24 Home Care Assistance .B-3, B-7 Options for Senior America .....47

Housing Almost Home Senior Living ..B-3 Arden Courts............................17 Arleigh Burke Pavilion ..........B-9 Ashby Ponds...........B-5, B-15, 56 Aspenwood Senior Living........17 Birmingham Green ..................16 Bonifant at Silver Spring, The .....B-7, B-18 Brookdale Senior Living..........25 Brooke Grove Retirement Village .15, 19, B-7, B-14, B-20 Buckingham’s Choice ..............39 Chancellor’s Village .....B-7, B-17 Charter House ..........................26 Chesterbrook Residences................ B-9, B-19 Covenant Village ....... B-12, B-19 Churchill Senior Living ...........16 Crystal Square........................B-3 Culpepper Garden ..................B-2 Emerson House ....................B-15 Fairfax, The ............................B-4 Fairhaven ..................................39 Fox Hill ....................................11 Friendship Terrace........B-6, B-10 Gardens of Traville, The...........12 Great Falls Assisted Living..........B-5, B-15 Greenspring..............B-5, B-7, 56 Hebrew Home ..........................37 Homecrest House .......B-10, B-12 Homewood at Frederick ...........10 Knollwood..................B-10, B-17 Olney Assisted Living ......................B-10, B-13 Park View .................................44 Potomac Place ........................B-5

Quantum Property Mgmt........B-12 Residences at Thomas Circle ...20 Riderwood..............B-5, B-19, 56 Shenandoah Senior Living ........................B-2, B-15 Springvale Terrace........B-6, B-19 Tall Oaks ....................B-10, B-18 Tribute at the Glen ..B-14 & B-15 Victory Terrace...............B-2, B-7 Village at Rockville .................21 Vinson Hall ..........................B-15 Waltonwood .............................29 Woodlands, The............B-8, B-10

Legal Services Law Firm of Evan Farr.............35 Law Offices of Paul Riekhof ...33 Legal Counsel For The Elderly .14 Maryland Renters Alliance ......11

Medical/Health AMS Men’s Health...................29 Grace in Motion .........................5 Holy Cross Germantown Hospital ...........23 I Hate Knee Pain ........................6 Low Vision of Maryland ..........29 Medical Eye Center..................47 Silver Spring Medical Center...12 State Health Insurance Program ................35 Vascular Institute of Virginia ...13

Real Estate Long & Foster/Eric Stewart ............................36, 52 Long & Foster/Inderjeet Jumani ...................................27 McEnerney & Associates/ Sue Schumacher....................45 Weichert/Sue Heyman..............46

Retail/Pawn/Auction Dan Kugler’s Design Center...............................30,60 Five Colors ..............................21 Four Sales LTD ........................32 Healthy Back Store ..................18 Jacuzzi Shower.....................B-16 Quinn’s Auction Galleries ........24 WOW! Computer .....................38

Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation Arleigh Burke Pavilion . . . . .B-9 Communicare Health ...............28 Daniel Pitta . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46 Greenspring..............................32 HealthSouth Rehab Hospital....12 Manor Care Health Services ....25 Village at Rockville .................27

Subscriptions Beacon Subscription ................57 Washington Jewish Week.........34

Theatre/ Entertainment Arena Stage..............................48 Arts Barn..................................49 Ford’s Theatre...........................48 Kennedy Center ...........50, 51, 55 Toby’s Dinner Theatre ....B-11, 53 US Navy Band .........................49

Tour & Travel Eyre Travel ...............................43 Nexus Holidays ........................45 RowanLark...............................14 Tripper Bus ..............................43 US Navy Memorial ..................43 Vamoose...................................45

Restaurants

Volunteers/Careers

Original Pancake House...........50

Beacon Sales ............................34 Career Gateway ........................35

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