November 2014 | DC Beacon by The Beacon Newspapers

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VOL.26, NO.11

Empowering Afghan schools

Learn computers from books? While Afghanistan was under Taliban rule, from 1996 into 2001, most girls’ schools were closed. But since then, the number of girls attending school throughout Afghanistan has skyrocketed from about 5,000 to 2.4 million. There is now a new girls’ school in Khas Kunar. Prior to that, girls had been learning in makeshift schools in mosques and homes. “Education is now far better than under the Taliban, but there are still huge gaps,” Safi said. “I asked [schools in Khas Kunar], ‘can we provide books, or provide stationery for writing?’ I was told they had those things, but the schools still had no reliable electricity source.” The Safis’ organization raised enough money to install solar panels that now provide electricity for the girls’ school in the area. The Safis personally contributed

NOVEMBER 2014

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PHOTO BY BARBARA RUBEN

By Barbara Ruben In the remote region of Afghanistan that Qayum Safi once called home, the odds are still stacked against children getting an education. Youngsters in mountainous Khas Kunar, which borders Pakistan, may be from families too poor to spare them each school day. In addition, spots at schools often go to children of privileged families or clans. And many girls are not given the opportunity to attend school. Add to these challenges the lack of electricity and clean water, and a location in one of Afghanistan’s least secure regions, and the obstacles can appear insurmountable. But Safi, 71, a resident of Chantilly, Va., is working to give these children in his homeland an opportunity for an education. Inspired by an Afghan proverb, “No matter where a person goes, he always comes back to the children of his ancestors,” Safi and his wife Anna recently established a nonprofit organization called Rural Afghan Schools. The organization is raising money to bring electricity and computers to educational institutions in Khas Kunar, about an hour’s drive from Jalalabad, the main city in eastern Afghanistan.

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I N N O VAT I O N S

A Washington nonprofit offers free computer training; plus, tech tools for travel, and online investment advisors page 8

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

Qayum and Anna Safi, of Chantilly, Va., recently established a nonprofit organization to provide electricity and computers to schools in rural Afghanistan, where Qayum grew up. Even today, it is difficult for boys and girls in the Khas Kunar district bordering Pakistan to get an education.

$10,000 for this first project. They are now working to raise an additional $28,000 to bring electricity to two boys’ schools. They also hope to be able to provide a computer lab. “We have a computer instructor, but no computers. He said [the students] could learn about computers from books, but that doesn’t make a lot of sense to me,” Safi said. In addition to seeking donations of funds for these rural schools, the Safis would like to find American schools that would like to become sister schools with them. “We have connections to the villages, schools and local officials in Khas Kunar,” said Safi. “My relatives teach at these

schools, and I talk with them weekly. So I can be sure what we give will end up in the right hands.”

An education abroad To obtain his own education, Safi had to leave his hometown, and eventually Afghanistan itself. While he eventually earned a PhD in education from Columbia University, as a youth he thought he might never make it past elementary school. Growing up in poverty as the eldest of three children, Safi’s first home had an open fire for cooking, and the ground floor was shared with the family’s cows, donkey, sheep and goat. Waste water drained outSee SCHOOLS, page 50

Carlsbad Caverns reveal underground wonders; plus, sites associated with the Roosevelts, and last-minute travel deals page 46 FITNESS & HEALTH 14 k Time to revisit Medicare choices k Quicker recovery from surgery SPOTLIGHT ON AGING k Newsletter for D.C. seniors

LAW & MONEY k Why invest in India? k When to sell bond funds

ARTS & STYLE 53 k Fiddler freshly faces 50 k Degas’ dancer takes the stage ADVERTISER DIRECTORY

PLUS CROSSWORD, BEACON BITS, CLASSIFIEDS & MORE

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N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 4 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

A season for thanks I grew up in Texas, where the seasons and our graphic designer, Kyle Gregory, were not all that distinct. Sure, the days have both reached their 15-year annivergot shorter in the fall, and saries with us in recent days. many trees lost their leaves. Barbara has truly shaped But I find autumn much the Beacon’s editorial content more tangible here. There’s a throughout that time, writing change in the air and in the most of our cover stories in way you feel when you walk Greater Washington and manoutside. aging the work of freelance It’s almost as if the change writers, photographers and in seasons represented a other contributors. change in seasonings: there’s Meanwhile, Kyle has creata different flavor to life, and a ed the style of our paper and different style, as we move FROM THE designed hundreds of our adthrough the calendar here in PUBLISHER vertisers’ ads, not to mention the mid-Atlantic. By Stuart P. Rosenthal our collateral materials, ReMany of us associate fall source Guide, Expo logos with Thanksgiving, of course. And I like to and flyers, and more. take this opportunity each year to thank Where would we be today without the Beacon staff for their hard work and them? Or would the Beacon even be here dedicated service to our publications — today without them? They have conand to our readers — all year long. tributed so much to what our paper has beThis fall also offers me a unique oppor- come. tunity to single out seven members of our Also, a few months ago, our contributstaff who have reached, or are about to ing editor in Baltimore, Carol Sorgen — reach, significant anniversaries with the who writes most of our Baltimore cover Beacon. stories and other local features — reached Our managing editor, Barbara Ruben, her 10th anniversary with the Beacon.

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It’s difficult to count how many important tasks are handled by our editorial assistant Rebekah Sewell, the most recent addition to our staff, and a very welcome one. We are also grateful for the many contributions of our talented freelance writers, including Robert Friedman and Anne Ball in Howard County, travel writers Victor Block and Glenda Booth, and theater reviewer Michael Toscano. And last, but certainly not least, I want to thank my wife and associate publisher, Judy Rosenthal. You might say we have reached a significant anniversary as well, as this month marks the completion of our 25th year of publishing the Beacon together. In conclusion, I must thank all of you, our readers. You give meaning to all of us on the staff by reading the Beacon and attending our annual Expos. We hope we are providing you with the information you want and need, and invite you to communicate with us — by phone, fax, mail, email, through our website, and even through Twitter: #StuartPRosentha). We love to hear from you and value your opinions. Have a wonderful fall and a Happy Thanksgiving!

Letters to the editor

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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 • Graphic Designer ..............................Kyle Gregory • Assistant Operations Manager ..........Roger King • Advertising Representatives ........Doug Hallock, ................................................Dan Kelly, Cheryl Watts • Editorial Assistant ........................Rebekah Sewell

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 63 for classified advertising details. Please mail or email all submissions.

During those years, as she has covered a wide range of topics, she has introduced many Baltimoreans to the Beacon, and along the way, garnered a number of writing awards (as has Barbara). Alan Spiegel, our Director of Sales, and Steve Levin, one of our Baltimore advertising representatives, will reach their fiveyear anniversaries early next year. Both of them have been instrumental in the growth of the Beacon during this period, including the introduction of the Howard County Beacon. Speaking of which, also next year we look forward to marking the 10-year anniversary of Doug Hallock, our number one advertising representative. Doug services more of our advertisers than any other member of the staff, and has done so with distinction throughout the past decade. Without his efforts, and those of our other ad reps, Cheryl Watts, Dan Kelly and Jill Joseph, there would certainly be no Beacon, as it is our advertisers who enable us to stay in business as a free publication. Next year will also mark the 10-year anniversary of Roger King, our assistant operations manager. Roger, who started out as an ad rep, showed us his diverse talents as a web master and graphic designer, and now assists both our vice president of operations, Gordon Hasenei (on his way toward 15 years), and Kyle in all these areas.

Readers are encouraged to share their opinion on any matter addressed in the Beacon as well as on political and social issues of the day. Mail your Letter to the Editor to The Beacon, P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915, or email to barbara@thebeaconnewspapers.com. Please include your name, address and telephone number for verification. Dear Editor: The article about e-book services in the October issue of your Washington edition misses one of the most important — and, incidentally, free — choices for downloading of e-books. Through an app called OverDrive, and with a library card, one can keep a maximum of ten downloaded titles from the Washington, D.C., Library system [as well as many other local libraries] on a computer, tablet or smartphone, all without having spent a cent. Just like when one checks out an actual book at a “bricks-and-mortar” library, titles are to be returned after 21 days, but can be renewed online for additional time before they expire. OverDrive has a simple search engine for other libraries that use its system. Edward Mattis Washington, D.C. Dear Editor: Regarding Bob Levey’s October column, about the car with all the bells and whistles: My sentiments exactly! I take my raggedy car in for service. They

have to keep it and give me a loaner car that has everything on it. I’m afraid to touch anything, for fear I will turn something on and can’t figure out how to shut it off. I’m always glad to get my 2002 plain Jane car back. Frances Korb Washington, D.C. Dear Editor: A few months ago, I ran into your publisher, Stuart Rosenthal, at the hospital where he was visiting his mother. I was visiting a long time friend. I reminded Mr. Rosenthal that I knew him when he was an attorney working at an office building in downtown D.C., where my son and I operated a card and gift shop. I offered Mr. Rosenthal my condolences on the passing of his father, and now offer him my condolences on the recent passing of his mother. His meaningful eulogies on his departed parents brought back memories of my father’s passing away, on August 19, 1944. See LETTERS TO EDITOR, page 61

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 4

JCA SeniorTech Computer & Technology Courses For Adults Age 50 Plus

Five Convenient locations Asbury Methodist Village • JCA Bronfman Center Crystal City • Microsoft at Tysons Corner Microsoft at Pentagon City

240-395-0916

www.accessjca.org

See next pages for upcoming classes and workshops on beginning and intermediate computer classes, iPad, iPhone, email, photos & much more!

JCA SeniorTech and JCA University are services of the Jewish Council for the Aging of Greater Washington®

JCA SENIORTECH

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

COMPUTER BASICS WITH WINDOWS 7 Prerequisites: Windows 7 or Vista PC

Fee: $85 6 sessions Limit: 10 # 254 Tues Jan 6 — Feb 10 9:30-11:30am # 255 Tues Mar 3 — Apr 7 9:30-11:30am This course is for users with Windows 7 or Windows Vista computers. Although Windows 8 is more current, Windows 7 will be around for several more years. The course is intended for those fairly new to computers or persons seeking to refresh or expand their basic skills. Typing skills are not required. Instruction covers use of the mouse, keyboard, monitor, and external storage devices. Learn techniques for creating and saving documents, editing text, organizing files with folders, and copying and moving files.

DO MORE WITH EMAIL

Prerequisite: Computer Basics or equivalent 3 sessions Limit: 10 Fee: $50 # 256 Fri Jan 23 — Feb 6 9:30-11:30am You may know how to send an email message by rote repetition, but you can use email to your advantage to better communicate with family and friends. This course shows you in detail how to compose, send, and receive messages and attachments, and how to manage your email. You will learn how to use your own Web-based mail manager.

SECURITY 101

Prerequisites: Computer Basics or equivalent and access to the Internet 3 sessions Limit: 10 Fee: $50 # 257 Mon Jan 26 — Feb 9 9:30-11:30am Every person with a computer needs this course! You and your computer are exposed to a wide variety of threats while connected to the Internet, even when not online. This course shows you how to create secure passwords, avoid and deal with threats, and the software tools available.. Learn how to improve your own and your computer’s overall security.

DO MORE WITH THE WEB

Prerequisite: Computer Basics or equivalent and current access to the Internet 6 sessions Limit: 10 Fee: $85 # 258 Mon Mar 2 — Apr 6 9:30-11:30am This course shows you how to browse the web Web more efficiently and enjoyably. You learn to use the Internet Explorer Web browser to its full extent and to modify it to meet your needs. Hands-on exercises show you how to use search tools and stay secure while online. It does not matter for this course which Internet Service Provider you have at home.

TOTAL PHOTO WITH PICASA

Prerequisites: Experience taking digital photos and using a computer. 4 sessions Limit: 10 Fee: $65 # 259 Fri Mar 6—Mar 27 9:30-11:30am Looking for an easy way to organize, edit, and share the digital photos on your computer? This course shows you how to obtain and use

Google’s Picasa application. You will learn the basics of importing digital photos, organizing them into albums, and use tags and captions. You will see how you can edit photos to make them even better, and ways to share them with others, including photo collages, slideshows, and Google+ Albums

ASSISTED PRACTICE

Plan to attend these free Wednesday sessions. They are an integral part of your learning. You must be registered for at least one class. No Fee Wed Jan 7 —- Feb 11 9:30-1:30pm Wed Mar 4 — Apr 8 9:30-1:30pm

JCA Bronfman Center

12320 Parklawn Drive, Rockville, MD, 301-255-4200

COMPUTER BASICS WITH WINDOWS 7

Prerequisites: Windows 7 or Vista PC 6 sessions Limit: 8 Fee: $85 # 260 Thurs Jan 8 — Feb 12 1:00-3:00pm This course is for users with Windows 7 or Windows Vista computers. Although Windows 8 is more current, Windows 7 will be around for several more years. The course is intended for those fairly new to computers or persons seeking to refresh or expand their basic skills. Typing skills are not required. Instruction covers use of the mouse, keyboard, monitor, and external storage devices. Learn techniques for creating and saving documents, editing text, organizing files with folders, and copying and moving files.

DO MORE WITH WINDOWS 7

Prerequisite: Computer Basics or equivalent 6 sessions Limit: 8 Fee: $85 #261 Wed Feb 18 — Mar 25 1:00– 3:00pm The intermediate, non-technical course shows you how to take full advantage of Windows 7 features. (Windows Vista users are welcome.) You learn how to use the Windows taskbar and Start Menu; how to better manage files, folders and libraries, how to manage multiple applications, and how to use Jump Lists, shortcut menus, as well as the personalization features to better meet your individual needs. Learn how to modify user interface controls to enhance the appearance of the Desktop; backup critical personal data files, and use built-in utilities to keep your computer running at peak efficiency.

MICRSOFT WORD: INTRODUCTION

Prerequisite: Computer Basics or equivalent 2 sessions Limit: 8 Fee: $35 #262 Tues Jan 13—Jan 20 10:00–12:00pm Learn how to use your computer to complete basic word processing tasks. We will use Microsoft Word 2010 to create and improve the look of documents through a variety of different formats. Topics include becoming familiar with Word menus, entering and changing the style of text, controlling the overall style of documents, creating letters and using basic keyboard shortcuts.

N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 4 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

MICROSOFT WORD: THE NEXT LEVEL

Prerequisite: Computer Basics or equivalent 4 sessions Limit: 8 Fee: $65 #263 Tues Mar 3—Mar 24 10:00–12:00pm Once you know the basics of Microsoft Word, take this course to learn how to create the documents you want through special formatting commands for creating lists and outlines; inserting pictures, clip art, and drawings; formatting material into multiple columns; and creating templates for often-used formats such as personalized stationery.

MICROSOFT EXCEL

Prerequisite: Computer Basics or Equivalent 4 sessions Limit: 8 Fee: $65 # 264 Wed Jan 7 — Jan 28 1:00-3:00pm Excel is the software you use to find the story hiding in that shoebox of numbers, stories like: “Did we make a profit?”, “Was January better than December?”, “Which is our best product?” This class will introduce you to creating spreadsheets with the most widely-used computer spreadsheet program, Microsoft Excel. This is especially suitable for students who use spreadsheets in a nonprofit or business organization or who want to share them with others. We will be using version 2010.

TECHNOLOGY TERMS FOR IPAD BEGINNERS

Prerequisite: Computer Basics or equivalent 1 session Limit: 8 Fee: $ 20 # 265 Wed Jan 22 10:00-12:00pm # 266 Wed Mar 25 10:00-12:00pm What is an App? What is the home button? This course is designed for the beginner iPaduser. Terms and vocabulary related to the iPad will be defined and explored. Knowing the vocabulary will help in using your iPad more proficiently and successfully. This course would be helpful to anyone who will be taking an iPad class.

GETTING STARTED WITH YOUR IPAD

Prerequisite: iPad needs to be updated to IOS 7 and have an Apple ID and password 4 sessions Limit: 8 Fee: $65 # 267 Tues Jan 27—Feb 17 10:00-12:00pm # 268 Tues Mar 31—April 28 10:00-12:00pm In this hands-on class, you will 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, what apps are and where you get them, how to set up your email account, managing your contact list, taking and sharing pictures, listening to music and more. You will also learn how to keep your iPad safe and running efficiently, how to backup your data and how to use iTunes. You need to bring your iPad to class with you along with the power cord and adapter. If you already have an iTunes account, please bring your login ID and password.

10 AMAZINGLY USEFUL WEBSITES YOU NEVER KNEW EXISTED

Prerequisite: Computer Basics or Equivalent 1 session Limit: 8 Fee: $20 # 269 Tues Jan 27 1:00-3:00pm # 270 Tues Mar 3 1:00-3:00pm The web is full of great websites, but it’s often tough to separate the good ones from the truly great ones. In this course, you will be introduced to and explore 10 of the best.

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 4

LINKEDIN©, AN INTRODUCTION

Prerequisite: Solid computer skills and an active email account 1 session Limit: 8 Fee: $20 # 271 Wed Feb 4 1:00-3:00pm This 2-hour class will introduce you to LindkedIn©, the leading social networking site for professionals in all fields. Topics to be covered include: Joining LinkedIn, setting up your profile, documenting skills, getting endorsements, building your network, groups, and actually how to use LindkedIn©. This course is for professionals who want to network to get a job. It requires solid computer skills and an active email account.

FACEBOOK, AN INTRODUCTION

Prerequisite: Computer Basics or equivalent 1 session Limit: 8 Fee: $ 20 # 272 Wed Feb 4 10:00-12:00pm # 273 Wed Mar 18 10:00-12:00pm Connect with Friends and Family that live near and far with Facebook! This class will teach you how to set up a Facebook account. Facebook is a great tool to keep family members in touch in light of our geographically dispersed culture. Many long distance grandparents would love to know how to stay better connected with children, grandchildren and their extended family.

MEET THE TECHNOLOGY GURUS! BRING US YOUR PROBLEMS!

Prerequisite: Nature of topic is able to be addressed 1 session Limit: 8 Fee: $20 # 274 Mon Jan 12 10:00-12:00pm # 275 Mon Jan 26 10:00-12:00pm # 276 Mon Feb 9 10:00-12:00pm # 277 Mon Feb 23 10:00-12:00pm # 278 Mon Mar 9 10:00-12:00pm # 279 Mon Mar 23 10:00-12:00pm # 280 Mon Apr 13 10:00-12:00pm # 281 Mon Apr 27 10:00-12:00pm JCA SeniorTech announces a new way to get help with your technology problems. Twice a month, our computer experts will be available to help you with hardware and software issues. Among the topics which we can address are the following: • iPhone© and iPad© (transferring data, iTunes©, backing up the cloud etc. ) • Skype (communicating, adding contacts and setup) • Laptop and Desktop Issues (Windows 7 and Windows 8) • Data Backup • Cameras (Managing your photos and videos) • Software Issues (Word Processing, Excel) • Powerpoint etc… Each session registered for allows for a minimum of a half hour to an hour with one of our gurus by appointment during these times:

ASSISTED PRACTICE

No Fee Limit: 8 Thurs Jan 15 10:00-12:00pm Thurs Jan 29 10:00-12:00pm Thurs Feb 12 10:00-12:00pm Thurs Feb 26 10:00-12:00pm Thurs Mar 12 10:00-12:00pm Thurs Mar 26 10:00-12:00pm Thurs Apr 16 10:00-12:00pm The FREE Assisted Practice sessions are an integral part of your learning. Come practice what

JCA SENIORTECH you’ve learned in class. Instructors will be there to help guide you and answer questions. You must be registered for at least one class to participate.

Crystal City

2345 Crystal Drive, Suite 1100 Arlington, VA, 703-941-1007

COMPUTER BASICS: INTRODUCTION TO THE PERSONAL COMPUTER USING WINDOWS 7

Prerequisite: none, please bring a flash drive to class 6 sessions Limit: 12 Fee: $85 # 282 Wed Jan 7—Feb 11 10:00-12:00pm # 283 Wed Mar 4 — Apr 8 10:00 -12:00pm This course is for users with Windows 7 or Windows Vista computers. Although Windows 8 is more current, Windows 7 will be around for several more years. The course is intended for those fairly new to computers or persons seeking to refresh or expand their basic skills. Typing skills are not required. Instruction covers use of the mouse, keyboard, monitor, and external storage devices. Learn techniques for creating and saving documents, editing text, organizing files with folders, and copying and moving files.

INTERMEDIATE PC, WINDOWS 7

Prerequisite: Computer Basics or equivalent 6 sessions Limit: 12 Fee: $85 # 284 Tues Jan 6 – Feb 10 10:00-12:00pm # 285 Tues Mar 3 – April 7 10:00-12:00pm This course continues the exploration of Microsoft Windows 7 begun in Computer Basics. Its objective is to teach the student how to set up computer features (folders, shortcuts, etc.) responsive to personal requirements and desires. In particular, the class addresses customization of the Start menu, changing computer settings in the Control Panel, and use of Windows Explorer and My Computer. Copying disks, using the recycle bin, and finding answers using “Help” are also included.

EXCEL BASICS

Prerequisite: Computer Basics or equivalent 6 sessions Limit: 12 Fee: $8 # 286 Thurs Jan 8—Mar 12 10:00-12:00pm Develop a basic spreadsheet, learning how to enter and format text and numbers, adjust column width to accommodate data, add or delete rows and columns, and align data within and across columns. Learn the use of formulas, including cell referencing and establishing absolute and relative references. Learn the use of functions. Bring a flash drive with you to class to save the spreadsheets you develop and to work on assignments you may get in order to practice what you have learned.

EXCEL—BEYOND BASICS

Prerequisite: Excel Basics or equivalent 3 sessions Limit: 12 Fee: $50 # 287 Thurs Mar 5—Mar 19 10:00-12:00pm One session will cover the development and formatting of charts, including pie charts and columns charts. One session will cover summarizing data from multiple spreadsheets, such as developing an annual expenditure summary using quarterly expenditure reports. One session will cover the use of Excel as a database, including adding/deleting/modifying data entries, sorting, filtering data that match specific criteria using auto-filter and advanced-filter.

TOURING THE INTERNET

Prerequisite: Computer Basics or equivalent 6 sessions Limit: 12 Fee: $85 # 288 Mon Jan 5– Feb 23 12:30-2:30pm # 289 Mon Mar 2– Apr 6 12:30-2:30pm Learn how to send and receive email with and without attachments, use address books, browsers, Internet and email security, and utilize search, shopping, travel, entertainment, and government web-based resources. This is a hands-on course that uses the Windows Internet Explorer browser.

GUIDE TO BUYING A PERSONAL COMPUTER (WORKSHOP)

Fee: $20 1 session Limit: 12 # 290 Thurs Mar 26 10:00-12:00pm Join this workshop to discuss how to make a good choice of a computer for yourself or a loved one. The instructor will present important issues to consider and features to choose when purchasing your next personal computer.

UNDERSTANDING YOUR APPLE IPAD© (WORKSHOP)

Prerequisite: Ownership of Apple iPad© 3 sessions Limit: None Fee: $50 # 291 Fri Feb 27—Mar 13 10:00-12:00pm # 292 Wed—Fri Apr 29-May1 10:0012:00pm Students should bring their fully charged iPad to the classroom; no demonstration devices will be provided. This workshop is not for iPhones or tablets made by other companies. During this 3-day interactive workshop (2 hours each day), the instructor will cover topics such as:available iPad features, multitasking, hand gestures, configuration settings and customization, email, photos, iPad apps, and security.

USING YOUR APPLE IPHONE (WORKSHOP)

Prerequisite: Ownership of an Apple iPhone 1 session Limit: None Fee: $20 # 293 Thurs Feb 19 10:00-12:00pm # 294 Mon Apr 20 12:30-2:30pm This workshop will focus on how you can use your iPhone to surf the Internet, take and share photos, play games, read books and much more. Bring your fully charged iPhone© to class.

USING SKYPE TO MAKE VIDEO OR AUDIO CALLS (WORKSHOP)

Fee: $20 1 session Limit: 12 # 295 Wed Feb 18 10:00-12:00pm # 296 Wed Apr 15 10:00-12:00pm Learn how to use Skype, a free application program, to communicate with your relatives and friends who live far away. You will learn how to download Skype and set up an account, how to make video calls or voice calls from your home computer or smart phone, and how to call from your home computer or smart phone to a land line.

Crystal City courses cont. on p. 6

TAMING WORD (WORKSHOP)

Prerequisite: Basic computer knowledge and mouse skills 2 sessions Limit: 12 Fee: $35 # 297 Tues Feb 17&24 10:00-12:00pm This two-session workshop will show you how to make Microsoft Word your personal tool for word processing. Topics covered include setting the options to suit your needs, how to make and use tables, how to make a macro, how to format materials copied from the Web or other sources, and how to insert and size pictures in a Word document.

GRAPHICS EXPLORERS

Prerequisite: Knowledge of Photoshop Elements 10 or 11 Ongoing sessions Limit: 12 Fee: $35 # 298 Mon Jan 5– Feb 23 10:00-12:00pm # 299 Mon Mar 2—Apr 27 10:00-12:00pm Graphics Explorers is a series of meetings with no fixed agenda or syllabus. There is no instructor. Students use Photoshop Elements 10 or 11 to enhance photographs using several workbooks. Students provide their own copies of Photoshop Elements and workbooks.

WORKSHOP: SMART PHONES AND TABLETS USING THE ANDROID OPERATING SYSTEM

Prerequisite: None 1 session Limit: None Fee: $20 # 300 Thurs Apr 9 1 2:30-2:30pm In this informational tutorial, you will learn what the Android OS is, how to work with Android’s direct manipulation interface, and see demonstrations of popular applications (apps) that run on Android devices. If you are considering purchasing a smart phone or tablet, this informative lecture will also point out some of the differences between the Android OS and the OS for iPhone and iPads.

KEEPING YOUR COMPUTER SECURE

Fee: $20 1 session Limit: None # 301 Fri Jan 9 10:00-12:00pm This workshop covers the topics of how hackers choose computers, phishing, spam email, website drive-by, passwords, keeping applications and operating systems updated, malware protection and more. This presentation explains computer security with minimal technical terms.

10 AMAZINGLY USEFUL WEBSITES YOU NEVER KNEW EXISTED

Prerequisite: Computer Basics or Equivalent 1 session Limit: 8 Fee: $20 # 302 Mon Apr 13 12:30-2:30pm The web is full of great websites, but it’s often tough to separate the good ones from the truly great ones. In this course, you will be introduced to and explore 10 of the best.

ORGANIZING, EDITING, AND SHARING PHOTOS WORKSHOP

Prerequisite: Basic computer knowledge and mouse skills 2 session Limit: None Fee: $35 # 303 Tues Apr 14—21 10:00-12:00pm In this two-day course students will learn how to import their digital photos from cameras, phones, and tablets into their computers. They will also learn how to use Picasa, a free photo-editing program, to crop, brighten, darken, or sharpen their photos as well as share the photos with chosen individuals without sharing them with the world.

JCA SENIORTECH USING APPLE IPHOTO AND IMOVIE WORKSHOP

Prerequisite: Must have and bring your own Apple computer 1 session Limit: None Fee: $20 # 304 Thurs Feb 26 10:00-12:00pm # 305 Mon Apr 27 12:30-2:30pm In this class you will learn to organize, edit, and share photographs from your camera, iPhone, and iPad, and how to be the Steven Spielberg of your own movies. Bring your Apple laptop to class (fully charged or bring your AC adaptor) or just come and learn. Your Apple must have the Mountain Lion operating system or higher, iPhoto 11, and iMovie 10.0.05.

VIEWING MOVIES ON YOUR PC (WORKSHOP) Prerequisite: Basic computer skills

Fee: $20 1 session Limit:12 # 306 Thurs Feb 5 12:30 - 2:30pm # 307 Thurs Apr 2 10:00-12:00pm This is your chance to find out how to view movies in your home without contracting with cable companies — and pay little or nothing for viewing. You will learn which web pages offer movies free or for pay. The advantages of Netflix, Hulu and Crackle will be explained.

WINDOWS 8.1 DEMONSTRATION

Prerequisite: None, You may bring your own laptop with Windows 8.1 1 session Limit:12 Fee: $20 # 308 Thurs Feb 12 12:30 - 2:30pm # 309 Thurs Apr 9 10:00-12:00pm This workshop will highlight the major new features of the Microsoft Windows 8.1 operating system, concentrating on its “Tile” mode of operation. Bring your Windows 8.1 laptop. Topics covered will include the start screen, tiles, organizing and managing apps, charms, hot corners, and File Explorer.

ASSISTED PRACTICE

No Fee Limit: 8 Assisted Practice is an integral part of your learning. The computer lab will be open Monday through Friday; however, times may vary. Check the calendar at your center or speak with your instructor. You must have registered for a class to use the lab. The Landmark calendar is available on the Web (http://vaseniortech.org/vajca/calendar.htm).

Microsoft at Tysons Corner 1961 Chain Bridge Rd, McLean, VA 22102 703-336-8480

All Classes at Tysons Cornder Are Taught on the Surface Tablet (Microsoft) or your may bring your own Laptop Computer.

MICROSOFT EXCEL

Prerequisite: Computer Basics or Equivalent 4 sessions Limit: 6 Fee: $65 # 310 Wed Feb 11 — Mar 4 10:00-12:00pm Excel is the software you use to find the story hiding in that shoebox of numbers, stories like: “Did we make a profit?”, “Was January better than December?”, “Which is our best product?”

N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 4 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

This class will introduce you to creating spreadsheets with the most widely-used computer spreadsheet program, Microsoft Excel. This is especially suitable for students who use spreadsheets in a nonprofit or business organization or who want to share them with others. We will be using version 2010.

LINKEDIN©, AN INTRODUCTION

Prerequisite: Solid computer skills and an active email account 1 session Limit: 6 Fee: $20 # 311 Wed Mar 11 10:00-12:00pm This 2-hour class will introduce you to LindkedIn©, the leading social networking site for professionals in all fields. Topics to be covered include: Joining LinkedIn, setting up your profile, documenting skills, getting endorsements, building your network, groups, and actually how to use LindkedIn©. This course is for professionals who want to network to get a job. It requires solid computer skills and an active email account.

10 AMAZINGLY USEFUL WEBSITES YOU NEVER KNEW EXISTED

Prerequisite: Computer Basics or Equivalent 1 session Limit: 6 Fee: $20 # 312 Feb 12 10:00-12:00pm The web is full of great websites, but it’s often tough to separate the good ones from the truly great ones. There are so many amazing tools you can use to your advantage to make your life so much simpler. In this course, you will be introduced to and explore 10 incredibly useful websites you didn’t know existed.

Microsoft at Pentagon City 1100 S Hayes St, Arlington, VA 22202

All Classes at Tysons Cornder Are Taught on the Surface Tablet (Microsoft) or your may bring your own Laptop Computer.

10 AMAZINGLY USEFUL WEBSITES YOU NEVER KNEW EXISTED Prerequisite: Computer Basics or Equivalent

Fee: $20 1 session Limit: 6 # 313 Mon Feb 9 10:00-12:00pm The web is full of great websites, but it’s often tough to separate the good ones from the truly great ones. In this course, you will be introduced to and explore 10 of the best.

SeniorTech course registration form located on next page.

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

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 4

DESCRIPTION AND GUIDELINES

JCA SeniorTech Computer Training Centers teach computer skills to mature adults. Our centers offer a range of courses from basic to advanced, using Windows based computers.

The Microsoft operating systems vary by site and include Windows 7 and Windows 8/8.1. All training centers have high-speed Internet service. Courses are taught by volunteer instructors and coaches. Courses are almost always “handson” in which students practice skills and techniques on a computer during class. Any individual 50 + years old can access SeniorTech classes. Prior computer experience isn’t required for introductory courses. Advanced courses have prerequisites or more experience requirements.

INCLEMENT WEATHER POLICY

Each JCA SeniorTech center 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.

REFUND POLICY:

ATTENTION:

Instruction, course materials and all computer language settings are in

English.

Courses are taught with Windows computers.

For more information, call (240) 395-0916.

Jewish Council for the Aging (JCA) is looking for senior volunteers to teach and coach computer classes.

To teach computer classes to adults 50 plus at Montgomery County, Arlington, VA, Pentagon City & Tysons Corner, VA Are you a senior looking for volunteer opportunities? Do you have computer skills you want to share?

Classes are designed to help seniors refresh or advance computer skills and learn to use social media. Teach with Microsoft’s newest technology and programs. Microsoft will train you on how to use their programs and software.

For more info, contact us at seniortech@accessjca.org or call 240-395-0916.

SENIORTECH REGISTRATION FORM

COMPUTER TRAINING November 2014

WAYS TO REGISTER: BY MAIL:

Include your payment with form to ATTN: 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. Tear out this form and enter your classes on reverse side Name: ___________________________________________________________________ Age: ________________ 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

Fee

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

TOTAL $ _________

PAYMENT METHOD:

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

WB11/14

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.

Looking for Volunteers

JCA SeniorTech

Name as it appears on card: ____________________________________________________________

____________ ____________ ____________ _____________

______ /______

__________

Card Number

Exp. Date

Sec. Code

OFFICE USE ONLY Course #_____ Paid_____ Registration #_______ Date________

Course #_____ Paid_____ Registration #_______ Date________

✃

SeniorTech

More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 4 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Technology &

Innovations D.C. nonprofit offers free tech training training and employment assistance. Byte Back recognizes that technological training has the potential to “level the economic playing field for underserved communities,” he explained. The program is unique because it is run almost entirely by volunteers. All classes are taught by volunteer instructors, who are working or retired technology and of-

CREDIT

By Rebekah Sewell Growing up in an underserved neighborhood of Atlanta, Ga., Meico Whitlock, 30, was always “fascinated by technology.” By volunteering with Byte Back, a D.C. nonprofit that provides computer classes in disadvantaged local communities, he’s now able to help others succeed. He finds Byte Back’s classes “improve the lives of everyday people,” he said. Whitlock originally began volunteering for First Time Computers, a now-closed organization that provided refurbished computers to underprivileged locals. The program eventually found new life within Byte Back, which provides inexpensive — and often free — computers, computer

See BYTE BACK, page 9 Byte Back, a D.C. nonprofit that helps low and moderate income adults learn to use computers for employment, utilizes volunteers to teach its classes. Here, some students in its Office Track class learn to use Microsoft Word and Excel.

StemCell ARTS Physicians:

Patient Education Seminar

ALTERNATIVES TO SURGERY:

USING YOUR OWN STEM CELLS TO HEAL YOUR BODY StemCell ARTS, an affiliate of National Spine and Pain Centers, provides a family of non-surgical, adult stem cell and blood platelet treatments for common injuries and joint conditions. Our procedures increase function, decrease pain and offer the patient viable alternatives to invasive surgery typically followed by lengthy periods of downtime and painful rehabilitation.

FREE PATIENT EDUCATION SEMINARS Maryland TUESDAY, NOV 11, 2014 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm

RSVP

For 2015 Dates EMAIL rsvp@stemcellarts.com

888.979.7096 www.StemCellArts.com

StemCell ARTS 3031 Javier Rd., Suite 100, Fairfax, VA 22031

Get your questions answered by the area’s leading regenerative medicine experts and WASHINGTONIAN Magazine and Northern Virginia Magazine’s rated Top Doctors. Bring a spouse, loved one or a friend/colleague. Space is limited.

Dr. Friedlis is a nationally recognized expert in pain management and regenerative treatements. He is one of the first doctors in the Washington, DC area to use Stem Cell Mayo F. Friedlis, MD Therapy.

Originally from Northern Virginia, Dr. Wagner is an expert practitioner in regenerative medicine techniques including Stem Cell Therapy, PRP and Prolotherapy.

CONDITIONS THAT MAY RESPOND WELL TO STEM CELL AND PLATELET PROCEDURES: s s s s s s s

Knee Pain Osteoarthritis Meniscal Tears Hip Arthritis Pain & Labral Tears Shoulder Pain Rotator Cuff Tendinitis

s s s s s s

Chronic Back & Neck Pain Tennis/Golfer’s Elbow Achilles Tendinitis Foot & Ankle Pain Plantar Fasciitis Sacroiliac Joint Instability

NEW LOCATION! 5550 Friendship Blvd., Suite 100 Chevy Chase, MD 20815

Robert Wagner, MD Dr. Dade is an expert practitioner in interventional pain management and regenerative medicine techniques for treating neck, back, and sports-related musculoskeletal injuries.

Rodney Dade, MD

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★ F R E E

Health Study Volunteers

Name________________________________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________________________ City______________________________________State______Zip________________ Phone (day)__________________________(evening)_________________________ E-mail_________________________________________________________________ WB11/14

Please return this form to: The Beacon, P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915-2227

I N F O R M A T I O N

❏ Healthy Adult Vision Study (See ad on page 26) ❏ IDEAL Study / Healthy Volunteers 80+ (See ad on page 27) ❏ Diabetes Study (See ad on page 26) ❏ Pain Perception Study (See article on page 26)

✃

I N F O R M A T I O N F R E E ★ I N F O R M A T I O N F R E E ★ I N F O R M A T I O N

Virginia

I N F O R M A T I O N

F R E E

❏ Aspenwood Senior Living (See ad on page 42) ❏ Brooke Grove (See ad on page 20) ❏ Charles E. Smith Life Communities (See ad on page 48) ❏ Charter House (See ad on page 49) ❏ Churchill Senior Living (See ad on page 21) ❏ Covenant Village (See ad on page 30) ❏ Emerson House (See ad on page 30) ❏ Homecrest House (See ad on page 40) ❏ Mrs. Philippines Home (See ad on page 30) ❏ Oaks at Old Towne (See ad on page 59) ❏ Olney Assisted Living (See ad on page 38) ❏ Park View Bladensburg (See ad on page 51) ❏ Park View Columbia (See ad on page 51) ❏ Park View Emerson (See ad on page 51) ❏ Park View Laurel (See ad on page 51) ❏ Riderwood (See ad on page 28) ❏ Solana (See ad on page 57) ❏ Springvale Terrace (See ad on page 42) ❏ Victoria Park (See ad on page 41) ❏ The Village at Rockville (See ad on page 23)

F R E E

★

Maryland

★

I N F O R M A T I O N

See BYTE BACK, page 11

❏ Forest Hills of DC (See ad on page 29) ❏ Friendship Terrace (See ad on page 37) ❏ Residences at Thomas Circle (See ad on page 40) ❏ Robert L Walker House (See ad on page 30)

I N F O R M A T I O N

Diane Dallas, 59, had previous experi-

District of Columbia

F R E E

Gaining office skills

For free materials on housing communities and health studies, just complete and clip this coupon and mail it to the Beacon. Housing Communities

★

The program offers three levels of classes, including introductory classes for students who have never used computers, Microsoft Office classes for students looking for an office job, and computer certification classes for those entering the IT (information technology) field. Their basic computer classes, PC for Beginners 1 and 2, have seniors-only sections. Beginners 1 teaches the basics of computers — including using a mouse, typing, online searching, and using the Internet to research health issues, government services and potential jobs. Beginners 2 focuses on improving participants’ Internet and typing skills, and introduces how to access and send email. Students also learn to create and manage files and edit text. Both classes involve 20 hours of classroom learning. While the classes are priced at $400 each, those who meet certain criteria for low income can take the classes free of charge.

MAIL OR FAX FOR FREE INFORMATION

I N F O R M A T I O N

Classes for all levels

F R E E

fice professionals, AmeriCorps members, and even some Byte Back graduates who want to give back.

★ FREE INFORMATION ★ FREE INFORMATION ★ FREE INFORMATION ★ F R E E

From page 8

ence with computers but wanted to take classes with Byte Back. “I took classes several years ago for websites and HTML, [a computer language that prepares text and graphics for the Web],” she said. But her skills were a little out of date, and she needed a refresher. Many of Byte Back’s students are in the same boat. Since she had some experience, Dallas tested out of the Beginners series and enrolled in Office Track, the intermediate class for students hoping to use their acquired skills in an office job. She already had a position working part time as an administrative assistant for the Department of Employment Services in D.C., where she helped other seniors find jobs. She said that Office Track helped sharpen her skills for work, as she regularly uses Microsoft Word and Excel when taking case notes and interviewing the candidates. Many of the classes culminate in presentations and speeches by the students. They utilize their skills with Microsoft PowerPoint, choosing a topic that speaks to them. Dallas’s topic was African American opera singers. It gave her the opportunity to perform an aria for her class, which established her as an entertainer for Byte Back events. Eric VanDreason recently finished an AmeriCorps assignment with Byte Back. He said that observing the presentations was his favorite part of teaching.

★

FREE INFORMATION ★ FREE INFORMATION ★ FREE INFORMATION ★

Byte Back

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Technology & Innovations

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 4

Technology & Innovations | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 4 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Tech tools that make travel easier, simpler By Anick Jesdanun Your swimsuit and your sunscreen are in the luggage, and your boarding passes are all printed out. But did you remember your gadgets and chargers? Did you download enough entertainment? Do you know where you’re going? In my travels, I’ve come across a number of products and services worth bringing along:

Keeping your gadgets charged You’ll need not only the charging cord, but also the unit for plugging into the wall outlet. Bring a power strip, too, if you’re sharing a room. Otherwise, you’ll be fighting for the few outlets that aren’t hidden behind furniture or dangerously near a sink. If you’re going abroad, bring adapters and make sure your chargers will work with the voltage there. Also consider ways to keep your gadgets charged during the day. If you’re driving, bring a USB charger that plugs into your car’s cigarette lighter. There are also portable chargers you can plug gadgets into. Some phone cases also serve as spare batteries. One product that stands out is Mophie’s Space Pack for the iPhone 5 and 5s. It not

only doubles battery life, but also gives you additional storage for photos and videos. A 16-gigabyte version retails for $150, while a 32-gigabyte one costs $180 and a 64-gigabyte version is $250. With it, I get about two full days of general phone use. It’s clunky to use, though. The iPhone uses its own power first, and you recharge the iPhone battery by switching on the Space Pack’s battery. If you forget to switch it off, the pack’s battery will continue to drain, even after the iPhone is fully recharged. The pack itself also takes a while to recharge — typically about four hours in my tests. You need Mophie’s free Space app to copy photos and other content to the Space Pack’s storage. You then delete those files from the iPhone. It’s like having an external hard drive and having to manage what goes into it. Once I move photos to the pack, I’m not able to view them through the phone’s Photos and iPhoto apps. Because of these constraints, and the fact that the case is bulky and heavy, I’m better off with a regular, unpowered case when I’m near chargers. The Space Pack is

good for trips and other times I know I’d be draining the battery or filling up the phone’s storage faster than usual.

Keeping organized I’ve been a loyal user of TripIt since I reviewed it in 2007. Back then, it was strictly a website for organizing your travel plans. Now, there are apps for various mobile devices. The apps remind you where to go next and offer easy links to your phone’s mapping apps for directions. TripIt automatically creates a day-byday itinerary based on all the flight, hotel and other confirmation emails that you forward to it. TripIt automatically pulls out flight numbers and seating information from the email, while adding useful information such as gate numbers. For hotels, TripIt pulls out addresses and check-in times. You can add notes such as the hours for a national park you’re visiting. TripIt proved helpful recently when I went with two friends to Yosemite National Park in California. I forwarded everyone’s flight confirmations to keep track of who was arriving when. I added details on hikes we were planning and the dress code for a fancy dinner. I then shared a link with everyone.

TripIt also kept track of buses, subways and ferries I needed in Chicago, Denver and San Francisco. The basic service is free. I haven’t found a need to pay $49 a year for TripIt Pro, which offers information on alternate seats or flights and ways to track frequent flier programs. TripIt Pro also offers alerts when gates and departure times change, but I get those free anyway as TripIt tries to show the benefits of upgrading. Beyond TripIt, you might want to download apps for your airline. In many cases, you can check in and get a boarding pass on the phone — no printing needed.

Keeping entertained You might want to download some books, magazines and video ahead of time for when you don’t have a good Internet connection. See TECH TOOLS, page 11

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Say you saw it in the Beacon | Technology & Innovations

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 4

Byte Back From page 9 “They were executing their own ideas with confidence and delivering them to their peers. There suddenly existed a network, or community, of shared experience between classmates, which was a really encouraging environment to work within. The depth of genuine supportiveness between everyone was something I felt proud to be a part of,” he said.

Training entrepreneurs, seniors Byte Back also offers unique opportunities for potential entrepreneurs through Enterprise DC — a year-long program that provides free computer training, mentoring, loan assistance and financial advice for participants who want to launch a small business. Participants receive training on Microsoft Office and Access, QuickBooks, graphic and website design, social media marketing and e-commerce. Upon completion, they receive refurbished computers and QuickBooks software. For more information, visit http://byteback.org/enterprise-dc. VanDreason was inspired to teach classes at Byte Back to help out older adults like his parents, who didn’t feel that computers were for them. They were among the many seniors — especially those without prior experience with such technology — who feel intimidated by computers, or don’t see any benefit in learning to use them. “My parents avoided our computer for the large part of 10 years before resigning to the fact that they wouldn’t be able to ignore its uses forever. So I taught them here and there when they were stuck on something,” he explained.

Tech tools From page 10 If you’ll be driving, consider an FM radio transmitter. These gadgets transmit whatever’s playing on your digital music player over an open frequency on the FM dial. I bought Griffin’s iTrip from a Best Buy in Minnesota in 2009 for about $50. It has become essential for all my road trips. I simply plug the iTrip cord into my iPod’s headphone jack. I then tune the car radio to an open FM frequency that iTrip finds for me. Podcasts, audiobooks and regular music come over the car speakers. There are separate models for Apple devices depending on the type of charging port it has. For other devices, use the iTrip Auto Universal Plus, which uses the standard headphone jack. If you’re getting Space Pack, you’ll want this universal version, too, as the case covers up the iPhone’s regular port. This model also has a USB port to charge gadgets while driving. These transmitters don’t work well in urban areas, where there aren’t many free frequencies. Also, sound quality isn’t as good as what you normally get over the radio. But it beats silence. Beware that other motorists within 30 feet might also be able to tune in to what you’re listening to. — AP

Eventually, VanDreason decided to become a full-time member of AmeriCorps, the national community service group (sometimes called the domestic Peace Corps). When AmeriCorps placed him with Byte Back and he began teaching classes there, VanDreason discovered the schedule can often be grueling. “An AmeriCorps instructor will have anywhere from three to six classes to plan for, including weekly workshops. [The workshops] were on a rotating schedule and were focused, three-hour sessions centered around one computer program or concept,” explained VanDreason.

Volunteer opportunities Meico Whitlock, the volunteer mentioned above, works full-time as a digital communications consultant for the National Alliance of State and Territorial AIDS Directors (NASTAD). He agrees that his work at Byte Back can be demanding, but says the payoff is worth it.

“When I first started volunteering at Byte Back, I was really concerned about being able to effectively teach evening classes after working all day. But it turns out that teaching at Byte Back has been the highlight of my days,” he said. “It’s just something about entering a classroom full of eager students who are deeply grateful and appreciative of any amount of time you can spend sharing your knowledge with them,” he continued. The hard work clearly shows. Though she didn’t have a class with VanDreason or Whitlock, Dallas repeatedly complimented the level of dedication of her teachers. “The classes are organized and professional, and the teachers have a passion for what they’re doing,” she said.

For Whitlock, the passion is personal. “When I learned about Byte Back’s mission — and reflected on all the opportunities I had as a young man who grew up in a community with limited resources and benefited from programs like Byte Back’s — I knew then that it would be organization I would be proud to serve,” he said. To learn more about classes, call (202) 529-3395 or see www.byteback.org. Those interested in volunteer opportunities may contact Byte Back’s volunteer coordinator, Siera Toney, at the same number or email stoney@byteback.org. Volunteer orientations are held once a month. To donate a laptop or contribute, contact office manager Andrea Mack at (202) 8032704 or amack@byteback.org.

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AVOID KNEE SURGERY New FDA Approved Treatment Proven to Relieve Knee Pain

HAS KNEE PAIN BROUGHT YOU TO YOUR KNEES? END YOUR SUFFERING! Chronic pain can be excruciating and millions of people suffer just like you do, every single day. And just like you, others have spent years looking for answers about how to deal with extreme knee pain that stems from arthritis, osteoarthritis, sports injuries, and other sources. Physicians have spent years trying to find ways to relieve their patient’s pain. And pharmaceutical companies have also spent years looking for better ways to mask the pain. Advanced Spine & Wellness Center has found a natural way to eliminate your daily suffering and chronic knee pain. This FDA approved treatment can get you back to living an active lifestyle WITHOUT surgery and the endless trial and error cycle of trying different pain medications. The results can be felt almost immediately, as quickly as the time it takes to make a call to Advanced Spine & Wellness Center for your RISK FREE CONSULTATION.

If You Consider Surgery, Consider This!

Here are the facts to take into consideration about knee replacement surgery: • Surgery is costly, regardless of the percentage of services covered by insurance. • Surgery requires lost time from work and typically requires a regimen of rehabilitation and medications. • With surgery, there is always a risk for unwelcomed complications. And you could be back to where you started. • Medications will be required for relief from surgery and you have been down that road before. Potentially, addictions to these pain medications can cause potential side effects, something you do not want to experience. • Rehabilitation can take years.

It’s Time To Consider The Alternative

Advanced Spine & Wellness Center offers you a real opportunity and a painless way to say goodbye to your knee pain without any surgery. What are the important things you should consider? • No lost time at work • No high costs for rehabilitation • No possible addictive consequences of medication • FDA approved treatment covered by most insurance plans and Medicare • Recovery time is almost instantly, not months or years

What Is This New Treatment?

BE WARY of Other Facilities: • That don't Incorporate Physical Therapy into their Viscosupplementation therapy program

• Perform "blind" injections without the use of high tech equipment to precisely locate the joint

• Don't give you specific Home Exercises to ensure the best possible outcomes

Relief begins with a simple injection that causes little to no pain at all, especially compared to the pain you have been feeling on a daily basis. Through the use of diagnostic ultrasound, Advanced Spine & Wellness Center pinpoints the exact location of the pain within your knee. A synthetic synovial fluid, consisting of a carbohydrate substance already produced by your body within your joints, is then injected into the targeted area. Once inside, the synovial fluid immediately goes to work reducing the swelling and inflammation in the joint and adds a coated layer of protection. You will begin to feel immediate relief and be on your road to recovery almost instantly. It is that simple, it is fast, and no surgery is required!

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Technology & Innovations | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

Tech Shorts Use of Internet may improve memory Researchers have found an association among older English adults between the regular use of Internet and email and the maintenance of cognitive abilities, including memory, according to a study recently

published in the Journal of Gerontology. This is the first major study to show that digital literacy — the ability to engage, plan and execute digital actions such as web browsing and exchanging e-mails — may improve memory. Researchers looked at data from 6,442 adults between the ages of 50 and 89 who are part of the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing. They compared the changes over eight years in the adults’ ability to recall a list of 10 words over different lapses of time. Better recall was associated with higher wealth, education and digital literacy, while people with functional impairment,

N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 4 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, depressive symptoms or no digital literacy showed poorer recall over the eight years. The researchers’ findings suggest that “digital literacy increases brain and cognitive reserve, or leads to the employment of more efficient cognitive networks to delay cognitive decline,” according to the authors of the article. The paper, “English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ELSA): Can Internet/E-mail Use Reduce Cognitive Decline?” can be read at www.oxfordjournals.org/page/5759/14.

Unlocking cell phones no longer illegal Recently, Congress passed and President Obama signed a bill that makes it legal to “unlock” cell phones so the devices can — at least in some instances — be used on other carriers. The law repeals a decision by the Library of Congress in 2012 that made it a copyright violation to unlock a phone without the carrier’s permission. It is now legal to unlock phones for personal use, at least until the next round of rulemaking by the Librarian of Congress next year. Unlocking typically involves entering codes on the phone. In more difficult cases, the phone needs to be hooked up to a computer to have new software installed. Carriers have, in some instances, sued people who made a business out of unlocking phones and reselling them, but individuals unlocking for personal use have never been pursued. Carriers have become more lenient in their unlocking policies in recent years. Verizon, for instance, ships most of its phones unlocked. However, technical differences mean that it’s often difficult to move a phone See TECH SHORTS, page 13

LIFE ITS BEST is choice, variety and walks with Lottie.. A BLT with grandkids or grilled salmon with friends. A workout on the treadmill or a morning walk amid beautiful scenery. Make an appointment with your doctor for a blood pressure check or stop by our on-site Clinic. Just some of the choices, variety and conveniences you’ll enjoy along with a carefree lifestyle and great amenities. To learn more, call us at (540) 825-2411 or (800) 894-2411, and start living life at its best. A Continuing Care Retirement Communityy

112242 4255 Villagge Loopp | Culpe p pe p r,, VA 22701 | culpe p pe p rretiremen nt.oorg

The Writer’s Almanac Get your daily fix of all things literary, brought to you by Garrison Keillor and National Public Radio. Keillor’s five-minute show, “The Writer’s Almanac,” can be heard on WAMU weekdays at 6:50 a.m. But if that’s too early, the petite broadcast is available online in text and audio formats. Each day features an often seasonally appropriate poem, such as the compact, elegiac “Late September” by Connie Wanek, snippets on the life writers whose birthday is the day of the broadcast, and famous events that happened on that date. For example, on Oct. 2, 1950, the comic strip “Peanuts” made its debut http://writersalmanac.publicradio.org

Beacon Links By Barbara Ruben

Scam, rumor or legit? Does the new iPhone 6 really bend if placed in your pocket? Does the Social Security Administration request banking information and passwords by email? Is that offer of a free iTunes gift card legit? Does caffeine-infused underwear help you lose weight? The answer all these questions is no, according to the website Snopes.com. The site debunks a plethora of rumors and urban legends — and lets you know when something that sounds unlikely is really true. www.snopes.com

On this day in history Ever wonder what happened through the years on your birthday? On Any Day in History, I discovered that on my birthday Copernicus made his first observation of Saturn and William Shakespeare was baptized. Just plug in any month and day to find out who was born or died on the date and the headlines going back a millennium. www.scopesys.com/anyday

Complementary medicine answers Dr. Andrew Weil is one of the nation’s best known practitioners of alternative medicine. Each day he answers a question from one of his site’s readers. Learn about everything from whether glucosamine supplements are worthwhile for arthritis to whether poor sleep leads to memory loss. Readers can also submit their own questions through the site. www.drweil.com/drw/ecs/ask_ dr_weil

The government at your fingertips This federal government website offers one-stop shopping for resources on a range of older adult issues, from caregiving to consumer protection to end-of-life concerns. Click on Grandparents Raising Grandchildren, for example, and get links for benefits and assistance, as well as health safety resources. A link also connects you with state and local government agencies and elected officials. http://www.usa.gov/Topics/Seniors.shtml

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How online investment adviser sites work By Nellie S. Huang Getting good investment advice doesn’t require millions in the bank anymore. These days, an army of online advisers will offer low-cost solutions to the age-old question: How do I invest my money? The three firms below not only provide advice, but they actually pick investments for you. The diversified portfolios they recommend hold only low-cost exchangetraded or mutual funds. Although many of these firms don’t have a long-term record, they list a lot of information on their websites. On most, you can view the recommended portfolios and see which funds they hold, along with recent performance.

Asset Builder www.assetbuilder.com Minimum: $50,000 Annual fee on a $50,000 balance: $225 (0.45 percent) How it works: AssetBuilder invests your money in a mix of U.S. and foreign stocks, real estate stocks and bonds. The firm’s eight model portfolios each hold 11 to 14 funds managed by Dimensional Fund Advisors (available only through DFA-approved advisers). Pros: AssetBuilder suggests other portfolios you can invest in on your own. Plus, you can talk to an adviser on the phone, if necessary. Fees, as a percentage of assets, drop as portfolio balances rise. AssetBuilder also offers 401(k) plan advice upon request. Cons: The initial-balance requirement is high.

Betterment www.betterment.com Minimum: $10

Tech shorts From page 12 from one network to another, and even if you can make the move, phone functions are impaired. The easiest move is between AT&T and T-Mobile US. — AP

Local telecom advocate honored Marcia Swanson, a resident of Silver Spring, Md., has been honored for her community service work by Maryland Relay, a nonprofit that provides free telecommunication services to people in Maryland who have hearing, speech or physical limitations that make the use of regular telephone services difficult. Maryland Relay services are provided

Annual fee on a $50,000 balance: $125 (0.25 percent) How it works: Low-cost ETFs (with annual fees between 0.12 percent and 0.16 percent) fill the portfolios that Betterment has created to suit every goal and time horizon. Underlying funds include Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (symbol VTI) and the small-company-oriented iShares Russell 2000 Value (IWN). Your money is held in an account at Betterment Securities, the firm’s brokerage division. Pros: Advisory fees fall for balances above $100,000. Cons: Betterment does not accept securities, so you may have to sell current holdings to provide the cash to open an account. If you want to hold on to a specific security, hold it in another brokerage account. No 401(k) plan advice.

Wealthfront www.wealthfront.com Minimum: $5,000 Annual fee on a $50,000 balance: $100 (0.25 percent on assets over $10,000) How it works: Answer 10 simple questions, and the website kicks out two portfolios for you: one for your taxable account and another for a tax-deferred retirement account. Using ETFs, the portfolios hold a mix of assets that can include municipal bonds, foreign and emerging-markets stocks, U.S. stocks, and even a basket of commodities. Pros: No commissions on trades. No fee on the first $10,000. Cons: The service doesn’t provide advice on investments you currently own, whether they are individual stocks or funds in your 401(k) plan. Nellie S. Huang is a senior associate editor by Hamilton Relay, which sponsors the annual award honoring an “individual who is hard of hearing, Deaf or has difficulty speaking, and who has been a positive influence in their state, demonstrating commitment to advocacy, leadership and enhancing the lives of those around them.” Swanson is a Maryland Relay client as a result of lifelong hearing loss, and helps advocate for the service. She has served as president, and is now secretary, of the White Oak chapter of NARFE, the National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association. She also established a scholarship for deaf and hard of hearing students at McDaniel College in Maryland, is an active leader in local hiking groups, and is a Montgomery County election judge. More information on Maryland Relay can be found on its website, www.MDRelay.org, by email at MoreInfo@MDRelay.org, or by phone at 1-800-552-7724.

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at Kiplinger’s Personal Finance magazine. Send your questions and comments to moneypower@kiplinger.com. And for more on this

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Health Fitness &

BOUNCING BACK Immune cells in blood may help predict, improve recovery from surgery HEALTHY HYDRATION Try these beverages and foods to keep yourself well hydrated WRITE ON Pen (or email) a letter to a younger pen pal or to your grandchild CAREGIVER OF THE YEAR A 90-year-old Maryland caregiver is among the nation’s best

Review Medicare options before Dec. 7 By Kimberly Lankford Falling leaves and pumpkins are signs of autumn — along with Medicare’s open enrollment season, when those with the health program can switch plans. As your list of seasonal chores grows, you may be tempted to stick with your current Medicare Advantage or Part D prescription-drug plan. But that plan may no longer be your best option. Insurers are boosting premiums and other out-of-pocket costs. They’re also adding expensive drug-pricing tiers, charging extra if you don’t go to approved pharmacies, imposing new restrictions on drugs, and dropping doctors from plans. So even if you’ve been happy with your current plan, its coverage may change significantly next year. It’s important to take a look at what your plan will offer next year and review alternatives while open enrollment is available — through Dec. 7.

Finding the best drug plan For seniors who take many expensive medications, here’s the good news about Medicare Part D: The “doughnut hole” continues to shrink. Those who enter the coverage gap in 2015 will get a 55 percent discount on brand-name drugs and a 35 percent federal subsidy for generic drugs. The doughnut hole works like this: For 2015, after you pay a $320 deductible, the plan provides coverage until your drug expenses reach $2,960 (including both your share and the insurer’s share of the costs). Then the doughnut hole begins, and you pick up 45 percent of the cost of brandname drugs and 65 percent of the cost of generic drugs. When your out-of-pocket costs reach $4,700, the government picks up most of the tab. Part D premiums are rising by just $1 a month on average in 2015, to $32 a month. But those stable premiums could mask changes within plans that could boost your costs. Here’s what to watch out for: 1. Beware changing formularies. Insurers have been changing their formularies — the list of drugs that are covered — and adding more pricing tiers. Such moves can increase your out-of-pocket costs. A drug can also cost more because the Part D plan is placing it on a higher-cost

pricing tier. Most plans have five pricing tiers, generally with preferred and nonpreferred generics, preferred and nonpreferred brand-name drugs, and specialty drugs. Some insurers that previously charged the same co-payments for all brand-name drugs, for instance, have started charging more for certain brand-name medications by adding a nonpreferred tier. 2. Buy at preferred pharmacies. The number of plans with preferred pharmacies jumped from 7 percent to 72 percent over the past three years. While an insurer will pay a portion of the costs of drugs bought from pharmacies in its network, it pays a greater share at preferred pharmacies. It’s not enough to go to a network pharmacy. 3. Overcome obstacles. Even if your drug is on the formulary, you may need to clear some hurdles before an insurer will cover it. For example, some insurers use “step therapy” for some expensive drugs — requiring you to try a lower-cost medication first before they’ll cover your drug. Or they may require “prior authorization,” asking for your doctor to fill out a detailed form explaining why you need that medication. And insurers are imposing limits on the number of dosages. The first step in determining whether to stick with your current plan, or to switch, is to review your “annual notice of change,” which explains any changes in coverage and costs for 2015, which you should have received by Sept. 30. Before you change coverage, ask your doctor if you can switch any of your brandname medications to generics. The plan with the best deals for generics may be different from the one that offers the best rates for brand-name drugs. With the online Plan Finder, you plug in your zip code and then your drugs and dosages. The tool then pulls up the plans in your area — providing details on premiums, deductibles and co-payments, and whether all of your drugs are on each plan’s formulary. It will also show you how much you can expect to pay out of pocket under each plan during 2015. Focus on that number rather than on the premium cost. The Plan Finder also notes the plans that impose re-

strictions, such as preauthorization and step therapy. It’s important to enroll in a Part D plan, even if you use few drugs now. You never know if you will need expensive coverage several months into the year. You’ll have to pay a lifetime penalty if you decide to enroll later, unless you have “creditable coverage” from an employer, retiree or other approved plan. To find a new Part D or Advantage plan, go to the online Medicare Plan Finder (www.medicare.gov/find-a-plan) or contact your local State Health Insurance Assistance Program (find your local SHIP at www.shiptalk.org or call 800-6334227). A SHIP adviser will run through your best options either by phone or in person.

If you have Medicare Advantage Medicare Advantage plans are private insurance plans that provide both medical and drug coverage. Some do not charge a monthly premium beyond the monthly cost of Medicare Part B, which covers outpatient care. The standard premium for Part B next year will be the same as this year: $104.90 a month. (Medicare Part A, which pays for inpatient care, is generally free.) Premiums for Advantage plans have averaged $35 per month for the past several years. Unlike traditional Medicare, Advantage plans provide medical care through networks of doctors and hospitals. Recently, these plans have been shrinking their networks. Some plans dropped doctors in the middle of the year, forcing many policyholders to switch physicians. If this happened to you, this is the time to reassess your options. If you have a Medicare PPO, you’ll pay a lot more to see out-of-network doctors — perhaps 20 percent for in-network doctors vs. 40 percent for out-of-network physicians. And you may face a higher out-of-pocket maximum if you seek out-ofnetwork care — perhaps $6,700 in-network compared with $10,000 for out-ofnetwork. If you’re enrolled in a Medicare HMO, you may not get reimbursed at all for care delivered by out-of-network providers, except in emergencies. As with Part D, Advantage insurers

should have sent current clients a notice by Sept. 30 explaining any changes in coverage and costs. After typing in your zip code in the Plan Finder, look at “Medicare Health Plans.” Type in your drugs and dosages and your general health condition (excellent, good or poor in the “refine your search” section), and you’ll get an estimate of each plan’s medical and drug out-of-pocket costs for your situation. You can also compare estimated out-ofpocket costs based on health condition (defined as good, fair and poor) at MedicareNewsWatch.com. This site lists Senior Gold Choice awards for the value of benefits and plan design for plans in 80 cities. Check that the plan covers hospitals, doctors and other providers you use. Contact the plans for up-to-date information. If you’re now in a plan, ask your physician if he or she will be staying in 2015. Weigh the importance of sticking with each doctor. If you have a chronic condition, keeping your current doctor may be a top priority. You may want to change doctors if you visit your primary care doctor just once or twice a year. If you’ve been diagnosed with a major medical condition but discover that the top specialists aren’t included in any Advantage plan, consider switching to traditional Medicare and buying Medigap and Part D policies, Schwarz said. Before you switch to traditional Medicare, find out whether you can qualify for a Medigap policy. In many states, you can be rejected or charged more for Medigap coverage based on your health if you don’t enroll when you first sign up for Medicare Part B. Contact your state insurance department to check your Medigap options. Go to the Web site of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (www.naic.org) for a link to your state agency. Look carefully at the Advantage plan’s maximum out-of-pocket expenses, which is the most you have to pay for covered services during the year. Some plans provide extra coverage, such as vision and dental care. © 2014, Kiplinger. All Rights Reserved. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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How quickly will you recover from surgery? By Lauran Neergaard One of the big frustrations of surgery: There’s little way to know if a patient will be a fast or slow healer — someone who feels back to normal in a week, or is out of work for a month with lingering pain and fatigue. Now Stanford University researchers have discovered that right after surgery, patients’ blood harbors clues about how fast they will bounce back — and it has to do with the activity of certain immune cells that play a key role in healing. The work one day may lead to a test to predict who’ll need more care, or maybe even if an operation is the best choice. “We could ask, ‘Are you fit for surgery?’”

said Dr. Martin Angst, a Stanford professor of anesthesiology and perioperative medicine, who helped lead the research.

Enhancing recovery U.S. doctors perform millions of operations every year, many of them minor but others much more complex. Speed of recovery depends in part on the type of surgery and how sick the person is. Some hospitals have begun implementing “enhanced recovery” strategies — specific steps to take right before and after certain major operations in hopes of at least speeding the patient’s discharge from the hospital, if not their overall recuperation time.

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But scientists haven’t known why some patients recover so much faster than others who are equally sick, information that could help guide development of those enhanced-recovery programs. “I’m very excited that the science around surgery recovery is going that direction,” said Dr. Julie Thacker, a colorectal surgeon at Duke University who wasn’t involved in the new study but praised the work. Thacker has helped implement an enhanced-recovery program at Duke that she said works well, but said she can’t explain which steps are most important or why without more research into how they affect such things as the body’s inflammatory response.

Studying immune cells The Stanford team took an unusually close look at 32 otherwise fairly healthy people who underwent a first-time hip replacement. They took blood samples from the patients before surgery and at several points afterward, and questioned them about pain, fatigue and other elements of recovery every few days for six weeks. Their recovery was quite varied: Some experienced only mild pain just two days after surgery, while others didn’t report their pain was mostly gone until 36 days later. The median time to recuperate from post-surgical fatigue — extreme tiredness after simple activity — was three weeks, meaning half of patients fared better and half took longer. To learn why, the researchers looked to immune cells that are behind the inflam-

mation that always occurs with a wound. To find and map the activity of key players, they turned to the lab of Stanford immunology professor Garry Nolan, who helped develop a technology that measures dozens of features of individual immune cells simultaneously. The discovery: Patients’ blood shows an immune signature of recovery that accounts for much of their variability in recovery time — a pattern of activity in certain immune cells that are first responders to the injury site, the researchers reported in the journal Science Translational Medicine. If that particular reaction is controlled in the first 24 hours after surgery, patients recover faster. But when that reaction increases instead, patients recover more slowly, Angst said. “We were surprised” that such an early reaction set the stage for recovery, he said. But it makes sense, he added. Inflammatory processes initiate healing, but “you have to keep them on a leash and dwindle down efforts,” because too much inflammation does harm. The team has begun a larger study to see if the results hold up, and plans to study whether the same kind of immune reaction may play a role in other kinds of surgery, such as abdominal operations. The ultimate goals are to create a simple blood test that could tell who is more likely to experience a protracted recovery — right after surgery or maybe even before — and to hunt for treatments that might alter the immune reaction in order to help. — AP

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How to stay well hydrated the healthy way By McKenzie Hall, R.D. Roughly 60 percent of your body weight is water, which performs many essential tasks, including cushioning your joints and

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Supermarket shelves are filled with dozens of beverage choices — from vitamin waters and sports drinks, to juices, teas, wine and soda. Here’s some advice on which beverages best quench your body’s thirst: 1. Water. Turn to this inexpensive, calorie-free drink most of the time. Skip bottled water, however, which contributes to both greenhouse gas emissions and bulging landfills. Instead, rely on a home water filtration system to create the best water straight from your tap. 2. Sports drinks. Rather than reaching for a post workout sports drink enhanced with electrolytes and sugar, you’re probably best off with plain water. “For most people who exercise casually and have a good diet, this type of fluid replacement is not needed, as all electrolytes will be replaced via meals,” said hydration expert, Robert W. Kenefick, PhD, Research Physiologist with the Thermal and Mountain Medicine Division for the U.S. Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine. However, for those working daily in heat or engaging in intense aerobic activity for long durations, electrolyte-enhanced beverages may be helpful for hydration. 3. Coffee and tea. Both non-caffeinated and caffeinated coffee and tea beverages can contribute to hydration, without a diuretic effect, said Kenefick. Furthermore, moderate intakes of coffee or tea have been linked with a variety of health benefits, from cancer protection to

enhanced mental performance. Additionally, tea has been linked to heart health, weight loss and even bone protection. Keep in mind that high intakes of caffeine can lead to side effects in some people, such as anxiety, irritability, insomnia, uneven or rapid heart rate and stomach upset. 4. Alcohol. Even alcohol contributes to your daily fluid needs. “But, there is a caveat,” Kenefick said. “Concentrations of 12 to 14 percent alcohol, such as liquor and wine, do contribute to dehydration by increasing urine output. Fluids with lower alcohol concentrations, such as beer, tend to not have that effect.” Moderation (up to one drink per day for women and two drinks for men) is the key to health when it comes to alcohol. One drink is considered 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of hard alcohol. 5. Sweetened beverages. Research indicates that sugar-sweetened beverages, including sodas and artificially flavored “fruit” drinks — rich in calories through readily absorbable sugars — may contribute to chronic diseases. While these beverages may help to meet your hydration needs, it’s best to limit them. 6. Zero-calorie sodas. Artificially sweetened beverages are under scrutiny for their role in increasing the risk for obesity and other risk factors, such as stroke and heart attack. It’s a good idea to limit such drinks, which provide no nutritional benefits. 7. High fluid foods. Approximately 80 percent of total water comes from beverages and 20 percent comes from food, according to the Institute of Medicine. Some foods, such as fruits and vegetables, contain high amounts of water. Research from the University of Kentucky indicates that red tomatoes, radishes, strawberries, and cantaloupe, for example, consist of 94, 95, See STAY HYDRATED, page 19

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In addition to water and other healthy drinks, you can eat water-packed foods that can contribute to your fluid intake, helping prevent the headaches and sluggishness that can come with dehydration. Research shows eating foods that are full of water also helps keep you satisfied on fewer calories. Here are seven of our favorite foods with high water content: 1. Cucumbers. At 95 percent water content, a cup of cucumber slices is nearly as thirst-quenching as a glass of water. Cucumbers also provide a little fiber and some vitamin C (about 6 percent of the Daily Value per cup). Don’t limit your cucumber consumption to tossing slices into green salads. Get inspired to make refreshing cucumber recipes: dips, soups and — yes! — pickles. 2. Salad greens. Part of the reason that two cups of salad greens has fewer than 15 calories is that greens are more than 90 percent water. They’re also packed with nutrients, such as folate, vitamin C, fiber and the antioxidant beta carotene, which helps keep your eyes and skin healthy. Plus, having a salad for lunch (or dinner) is a great way to consume a couple of those recommended veggie servings. 3. Strawberries. Fresh strawberries deliver the most vitamin C of all berries and also provide folate, a B vitamin that’s essential for the healthy growth of new cells. And, since they’re 91 percent water, they’ll contribute significantly toward your overall fluid intake.

Eat them straight up or try them in a new strawberry recipe. They’re special in everything from salads to baked goods. 4. Watermelon. At a whopping 92 percent H20, watermelon is a good source of vitamin C. When it’s red (some are orange or yellow), it also has lycopene, an antioxidant that may help protect against heart disease and some types of cancer. Enjoy fresh wedges or, better yet, get creative with watermelon recipes. 5. Yogurt. Depending on your preferred type, regular plain yogurt is 85 to 88 percent water (surprisingly, there’s more water in fuller-fat yogurt). You’ll also get calcium and some B vitamins (namely B12 and riboflavin). To be sure you’re getting some goodfor-you probiotics, look for a yogurt that carries the “Live and Active Cultures” seal. 6. Papaya. At 88 percent water, this fruit is another good choice, and better yet, one cup delivers three grams of fiber for just 55 calories. 7. Butternut squash. This sweet and nutty squash is 88 percent water. A cup of cooked butternut squash also boasts over 400 percent of your Daily Value for vitamin A — a key nutrient for eye health — as well as healthy doses of vitamin C, potassium and manganese. — Nicci Micco and Brierley Wright, RD © 2014 Eating Well, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

From page 18 91 and 90 percent water, respectively. [For more suggestions, see sidebar, “Foods with high water content.”]

Fight dehydration If your fluid intake is inadequate and you develop dehydration, it can lead to cardiovascular strain, compromised physical and mental performance, and even heat stroke. “Studies consistently show that dehydration results in mood changes, including anger, confusion and fatigue,” added Kenefick. Yet, dehydration is a common occurrence, even among healthy individuals. Older adults, particularly those over age 71, are at even higher risk for dehydration, according to data on fluid intake from the

Foods with high water content

Stay hydrated

Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. This could be due to multiple reasons, including changes in body water composition, alterations in thirst perception, impaired kidney function, and even reduced appetite and the subsequent reduced food intake. It seems that the body’s thirst mechanism is not the most reliable, especially during exercise. According to Kenefick, by the time the brain registers thirst during exercise, you may already be dehydrated. And as exercise continues, it can be difficult to achieve adequate rehydration. Reprinted with permission from Environmental Nutrition, a monthly publication of Belvoir Media Group, LLC. 800-829-5384. www.EnvironmentalNutrition.com.) © 2014 Belvoir Media Group Distributed By Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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A pen pal can bring a lifetime of benefits Time travel back to 1948. Where were ment from ages ago back in grade one. Actually, my grandpa had also visited you in that year? My grandfather was six years old and in her before my mom was born. “It was very exciting after all of those the first grade at the time. That years of writing to actually also happened to be the year meet Cynthia and her parents that my grandfather’s teacher for the first time in 1963,” my assigned him a pen pal — a grandpa said. “I remember person that he could exchange that her parents had never letters with, even though they lived thousands of miles apart. seen a movie camera! A town called Taunton in “The second time I visited the British Isles was where her, in 1981, I took [your grandmy grandpa’s pen pal, Cynmother and mom] to their dairy thia, made her home, while farm,” he told me. “My fondest GENERATIONS my grandpa made his (and TOGETHER memory of that visit was watchstill does) in Maryland. And By Alexis Bentz ing my daughter in hip boots yet, despite the great differtraipsing through the muck.” ences in their daily lives (not My grandmother recalls, to mention the distance), they kept in “One of my favorite things was that Cyntouch, writing back and forth repeatedly. thia spent all day preparing a typical EngNow, step out of your time machine and lish dinner of roast beef and Yorkshire return to the present. My grandfather isn’t pudding. Both families sat around the in first grade any more, of course, but he table and had a great conversation.” This is only one example of the kind of still keeps in touch with his old pen pal. That’s 66 years (!) of writing letters to a friendship that can be formed by simply girl he was assigned to write to all the way printing “Dear Pen Pal,” on a sheet of back in the first grade. paper. And that is exactly why you should They grew so close that many years do it with a buddy from the opposite later, my grandpa, his wife (my grand- [younger] generation! Your pal can be a grandchild, student mother), and their daughter (my mom) went to England to meet Cynthia and her from a local school, or even a neighbor. Havfamily — all because of a single assign- ing a pen pal relationship is the perfect op-

portunity to get to know your new younger friend, even if you happen to live right next to him or her. Thanks to today’s technology, you can also

form a relationship through your computer, tablet or smartphone, and have an email or See PEN PALS, page 22

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Pen pals From page 21 What’s App? pal if this is more convenient. Don’t know how to email or What’s App? You can learn from others, from courses offered by organizations in the community, or from the public library. However, an even better idea is to use this

dilemma to your advantage. This is a great chance for some bonding time with your younger buddy: Have him or her teach you how to email or use social networks! So what are you waiting for? Grab a pen and paper (or a computer, laptop or smartphone) and start writing. Who knows? Maybe you will be able to keep in touch with your new buddy longer than my

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N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 4 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

grandpa has, and break year 67! Websites designed to match up pen pals from around the world abound. On most, you can not only view those who would like a pen pal, but also place a short ad about the kind of pen pal you are seeking. Generally, you can select by gender, country, language and age. While the vast majority of people posting

on the sites are genuinely seeking a pen pal, just to be safe, don’t share personal information, such as last name and birthday, until you’ve been corresponding for a while. Three of the larger pen pal sites are: PenPals Now, www.penpalsnow.com; PenPal World, www.penpalworld.com; and Inter Pals, www.interpals.net. Good luck, and good friendships!

Health Shorts

In a study published last year in the New England Journal of Medicine (August 2013), researchers followed more than 2,000 adults, with and without diabetes, for an average of almost seven years. At the start of the study, all of the participants were free of dementia — a group of disorders that includes Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia. Among the participants who did not have diabetes, risk for dementia increased with glucose levels. And among the participants with diabetes, risk for dementia rose along with glucose levels. Diabetes was also linked to cognitive function in a study published in September 2012 in Archives of Neurology. There, scientists measured the degree of change in the mental abilities of more than 3,000 elderly adults over an average of nine years. The participants who began the study with diabetes had the poorest cognitive functioning both at the beginning and at the end of the study. During the study period, 159 subjects developed diabetes — this group also had a higher decline in mental abilities, compared to those who stayed free of diabetes, though not quite as high as those who started the study with diabetes. What’s the connection between blood glucose and the brain? Elevated blood glucose levels may damage blood vessels or increase inflammation in the brain. However, research does not yet confirm that higher blood glucose levels cause dementia or cognitive decline. Further, the problem may stem from insulin resistance — the underlying cause of type 2 diabetes and prediabetes. — Environmental Nutrition

Cognitive problems linked to glucose Poor dietary choices, being overweight and being inactive often lead to blood glucose problems. And research suggests that elevated blood glucose levels — in people with or without diabetes — may be linked with cognitive problems.

Double mastectomy doesn’t boost survival Removing both breasts to treat cancer affecting only one side doesn’t boost survival chances for most women, compared with surgery that removes just the tumor, a large study suggests. The results raise concerns about riskier, potentially unnecessary operations that increasing numbers of women are choosing. The study involved nearly 200,000 California women treated for cancer in one breast and followed for several years afterward. Ten-year survival rates were nearly identical — roughly 82 percent — for women who had lumpectomies to remove the tumor plus radiation, and for those who had double mastectomies. Women who had a single mastectomy, removal of just See HEALTH SHORTS, page 23

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Fitness & Health

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 4

Health shorts From page 22 the cancerous breast, fared slightly worse. The results confirm what many doctors have suspected, said Dr. Len Lichtenfeld, deputy chief medical officer of the American Cancer Society. “There’s no guarantee that by having the second breast removed that you will do better,” said Lichtenfeld, who had no role in the research. In the study, just over half the women had lumpectomy treatment. But the number who had double mastectomies increased substantially to 12 percent between 1998 and 2011. The trend was most notable in women younger than 40, climbing from just 4 percent to 33 percent. Other research suggests that removing both breasts to treat one-sided cancer may improve survival chances for the relatively small number of women who have genetic breast cancer or strong family histories of the disease, said study co-author Scarlett Gomez, a research scientist with the Cancer Prevention Institute of California. But most breast cancer patients have neither of those risks. The medical community is paying increasing attention to overtreatment and excessive costs, and the study results raise questions about reasons for rising use of an expensive, potentially risky treatment “of dubious effectiveness,” the researchers said. Patients’ preferences and fear that cancer will return play a role, but that fear “usually

exceeds estimated risk,” the study said. Reasons why survival was slightly worse for woman who had just one breast removed are uncertain, although this treatment is more common among Hispanic and black women and those with lower incomes and public insurance than among wealthy whites. The study was published in the Journal of the American Medical Association. — AP

Many get unwanted care near death

cians who default to life-saving treatment because they worry about liability. Advance directives, including living wills, have been unpopular and ineffective, the report said. It urged repeated conversations about patients’ wishes beginning far earlier than many would think and continuing the talks throughout life. “The fee-for-service model, the lack of coordination between medical and social services, the challenges that individuals face in finding a provider who’s willing and knowledgeable to speak with them about death and dying, all conspire against them coming up with the right individual plan,”

said Dr. Philip Pizzo, an Institute co-chair. The report praised programs in palliative care, which focuses on treating pain, minimizing side effects, coordinating care among doctors, and ensuring concerns of patients and their families are addressed. This type of care has expanded rapidly in the past several decades and is now found in a majority of U.S. hospitals, but the report said many physicians have no training in it. In addition, the 500-page report authored by 21 experts said the very type of end-of-life care Americans say they want would shrink medical bills and reduce the governmental healthcare burden. — AP

According to a recent report, Americans suffer needless discomfort and undergo unwanted and costly care as they die. Though people repeatedly stress a desire to die at home, free from pain, the opposite often happens, the Institute of Medicine found in its “Dying in America” report. Most people do not document their wishes on end-of-life care, and even those who do face a medical system poorly suited to give them the death they want, the authors found. The result is breathing and feeding tubes, powerful drugs and other treatment that often fails to extend life and can make the final days more unpleasant. The report blamed a fee-for-service medical system in which “perverse incentives” exist for doctors and hospitals to choose the most aggressive care, inadequate training for those caring for the dying, and physi-

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N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 4 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

90-year-old caregiver among nation’s best By Rebekah Sewell On an average day, 90-year-old Mary Hartsock wakes up around 5 a.m. and works up to eight hours as a caregiver. She began her career working for the inhome care company Right at Home at the age of 79, when most of her peers were either already retired or retiring. She currently works for the branch of the company in Frederick, Md. In her 11 years with Right at Home, Hartsock has never been tardy or missed a day of work, the company said. “I certainly keep on the go,” Hartsock said modestly. She also stays active by volunteering with the AMVETS Ladies Auxiliary, serving on the administrative board

of her church, and giving time to a local service club. “Her integrity is impeccable, and her work ethic is relentless, especially with housekeeping tasks,” raved Right at Home’s community relations associate Linda Luber. “She will work just about any shift to accommodate someone, and she even helps with administrative tasks in the office.” For her commitment to her clients, Hartsock was named Right at Home’s National Caregiver of the Year. She also recently travelled to Kansas City, Mo., to accept the Caregiver of the Year award from the Home Care Association of America. Despite her appreciation at being recognized, Hartsock’s motivation comes from a

different source. “I thought it would be rewarding if I could do something for somebody that would help them. You find a lot of elderly people really need the help,” she said.

A lifetime of hard work Hartsock’s dedication to hard work may have been influenced by her early life on her family farm in Romney, W.V. Most mornings, she rose early to help her family with their work, milking cows and taking care of their livestock. “I’ve worked most of my life,” said Hartsock. She entered the job market at the age of 16, picking strawberries at another farm. She then moved to a job working at a factory making yarn. At 18, she moved to Frederick to find better job opportunities.

Eventually, Hartsock worked a variety of jobs, including one that made a lasting impression on her. For 28 years, she worked at the now-closed Francis Scott Key Hotel as a waitress, cocktail server, bar manager and, eventually, assistant hotel manager. It was there she discovered the value of learning to serve clients’ needs, she said. Hartsock has one son and has been married twice.

A caregiver who cares For her work with Right at Home, Hartsock regularly prepares her clients’ meals and assists them with household chores, such as bathing and other daily tasks. The work is often physically challenging, but See CAREGIVER, page 25

PHOTO COURTESY OF RIGHT AT HOME

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Mary Hartsock, center, was recently named National Caregiver of the Year by Right at Home, a home care agency with nearly 400 franchises worldwide. Hartsock, who lives in Frederick, Md., is 90, and has been working for the agency for 11 years.

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WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 4

Caregiver From page 24 Hartsock never shies away from a task that her clients need done. “I go into their apartment and prepare their meals, starting with breakfast and on through lunch, which is usual on a day shift. I do some cleaning. I always make their bed if they’re up,” she said. The majority of Hartsock’s clients have been younger than she. But she currently works with a man who is 89, “the oldest I’ve worked with,” she said. Their similar ages can give rise to some shared humor. “He actually makes a big joke of things. When I come by, he’ll say, ‘Made it over the weekend, didn’t we?’” Hartsock laughed. She also finds that being close in age to her patients can be beneficial to their relationship because their common ground helps her stay attuned to their unique needs, she said. Her first step is getting to know her

clients. “The first day...I sit beside them and try to find out every little need that they have. I learn all about the person,” she explained. “How much cream do you want in your coffee? Have you eaten breakfast? Or do you take your bath first?”

she said. “I do keep very busy.” Her advice to other seniors is to “get going someplace. You need to move, you need to walk. You need to do anything to exercise,” she said. “Someone who’s not in as good health as I am might not be able to do [what I do].

But...you can do a lot of exercising in your own home. You don’t need to join any of the exercise places. You can stand up, swing your feet, your legs and your arms. “Exercise to me is sometimes better than medicine. At least, I have a lot of faith in it.”

Advice for a long, healthy life Hartsock has strong feelings about what steps older adults need to take in order to stay healthy. “Seniors need to get away and get out of their homes. Two thirds of them are going to sit around and watch television. They’re not exercising and not moving around. “I don’t sit around and watch TV. I wouldn’t dare do that,” she said. Waking up early is a habit of hers, and Hartsock highly recommends it to those looking to be more active. “I’ve always been an early riser. I’m getting ready to go to work, or doing work in my own home.” If she’s not doing chores at home, she’s shopping or doing volunteer work. “When I get my work finished, I go somewhere,”

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BEACON BITS

Nov. 11+

DON’T LOSE SIGHT TO DIABETES Diabetes is a serious disease that can cause irreversible vision

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Health Studies Page

N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 4 — 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

Pain perception and the practice of yoga By Barbara Ruben Scientists know that different people perceive the same pain differently. Mood, attention, stress and personality can all affect how the pain feels to each person. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, at the Nation-

al Institutes of Health, is studying whether people who do yoga regularly perceive pain differently than those who do not practice yoga, meditation or martial arts. They also want to study if cortisol, a stress hormone, relates to pain or brain differences.

Share your opinion. Write a letter to the editor.

The researchers are seeking two groups of participants: • Right-handed adults 30 years and older who practice yoga regularly. • Healthy right-handed volunteers 30 years and older who do at least mild exercise but no yoga or martial arts.

What the study involves Those in the study will make three visits to the National Institutes of Health Clinical Center in Bethesda, Md. At the first visit, participants will be screened with a medical history and physical exam. They will have blood and urine tests and an electrocardiogram to measure heart activity.

Participants will wear a heart monitor for one day at home and collect five saliva samples over seven days. They will then return to the clinic, where they will be placed in a mock MRI machine. A heating device will be placed on their leg and heated periodically for a few seconds at a time. Heart rate and respiration will be monitored. During the third visit, participants will answer questions and repeat the tests from the second visit in a real MRI machine. The MRI test will take about one hour. For more information, contact Valerie A. Cotton at (301) 496-3244 or Valerie.cotton@nih.gov.

BEACON BITS

Nov. 19

HEALTHY LIVING LUNCHEON The Southwest Waterfront of AARP #4751 is holding its monthly

luncheon on Wednesday, Nov. 19 at noon. Dr. Marilyn D. McPherson-Corder will present a lecture titled “Perscriptions for Healthy Living.” Current AARP members and new prospective members are welcome. The event will take place at River Park Mutual Home’s Community Room, 1311 Delaware Ave. SW, Washington, D.C. The cost is $5 for lunch. For more information, contact chapter president Betty Jean Tolbert Jones at bettyjeantolbertjones@yahoo.com or (202) 5540901.

Ongoing

TIPS FOR MEDICARE ENROLLMENT Medicare Open Enrollment Season, the time to review your health and drug coverage and consider changes for next year, extends

through Sunday, Dec. 7. Review your options and try out the online Medicare Plan Finder at www.medicare.gov/find-a-plan/questions/home.aspx. Enter the drugs you take to find out how you can lower your costs and review the plan’s ratings to compare plan quality. For additional help, Virginia residents can contact the Virginia Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program at (703) 324-5851, TTY 711, and Maryland residents can contact the Senior Health Insurance Program (SHIP) at 301-590-2819 (Montgomery County) and 301-265-8471 (Prince George’s County). In Washington, D.C., call (202) 739-0668.

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Fitness & Health

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 4

10 questions to ask about new medicines Dear Pharmacist: 4. Better with food or on an empty stomHow important is it when a pill label ach? has warnings like, “take on an empty 5. About how long before I begin to see stomach” or “take with results? food?” I never adhere to 6. Is there a less expensive those warnings, and I’m generic alternative? still alive. Does it really 7. Are there any supplematter? ments that could help this — J.J. medicine work better, or any Dear J.J.: to avoid? It matters in most cases, 8. Is it okay to drink wine (if but not all. that applies) with my mediWith antibiotics, it may be cine? that your medicine reaches a 9. Will coffee, dairy or minDEAR higher blood level when you eral supplements inactivate PHARMACIST take it on an empty stomach. my medicine? By Suzy Cohen But over the course of thera10. How long do I stay on py, it doesn’t change the outthis medication? Some medcome, meaning the pathogens are killed. ications are only intended for a few days or With other medications, for example weeks, but people remain on them indefisleeping pills, a warning to avoid alcohol is nitely. This is the most important quesimportant and should be adhered to be- tion to ask. cause the combination could be fatal. If the caution label states “on an empty Same thing with certain antidepressants stomach” that means two hours after you (MAO inhibitors) that can’t be combined eat, or one hour beforehand. If it states with cheese, or death could result. “take with food,” it means to take it while For your safety, let me give you the eating or right after. proper questions to ask your doctor If it says “do not operate machinery or and/or pharmacist about any new medica- equipment,” that is your clue that the medtion: icine will make you drowsy or clumsy. It 1. What is the name of the condition that means to avoid driving, using a chainsaw, you are treating me for? mowing your lawn, or any other activity 2. What is the brand name and generic that requires you to focus. name of the medication that you’re preHere’s another good rule of thumb: Start scribing? low and go slow! With medications, the low3. Do I take it in the morning, at night, est effective dose is ideal. You don’t need to or divide the dose throughout the day? kill a fly with a shotgun, and if you try, you

could wind up with side effects that you would not experience with a lower dose. And finally, if you notice your medication keeps you up at night, then don’t take it too late in the day. Examples of medicines that are best taken in the morning include thyroid medicine, steroids like prednisone, attention-deficit drugs like Ritalin, and the fatigue buster Provigil. Examples of medicine that should be taken at night include certain antihistamines (like diphenhydramine), anxiolytics

like alprazolam, pain medicines like hydrocodone, and muscle relaxers. If in doubt, call your local pharmacist or physician. This information is opinion only. It is not intended to treat, cure or diagnose your condition. Consult with your doctor before using any new drug or supplement. Suzy Cohen is a registered pharmacist and the author of The 24-Hour Pharmacist and Real Solutions from Head to Toe. To contact her, visit www.SuzyCohen.com.

BEACON BITS

Ongoing

DRIVERS NEEDED The Shepherd’s Center of McLean-Arlington-Falls Church needs driving volunteers to assist with transportation to get clients to

and from medical and therapy appointments, the pharmacy and the grocery store. No long-term commitment is required, and you only accept to take someone when your schedule permits. For more information, call (703) 506-2199.

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Nov. 6

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N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 4 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

What chia seeds, mushrooms can/can’t do Q: Is it true that chia seeds can help people lose weight and that they’re super nutritious? How would I use them? A: When chia seeds combine with liquid, they swell and form a gel. That’s probably why some people suggest that, by expanding in your stomach and helping you feel full, chia seeds could help you lose weight. In other words, if they support weight loss, it’s by helping you eat less, not by some magical fat-burning power. However, only a few controlled studies have tested this, and so far, they do not show that chia seeds make weight loss any easier. Studies of participants using two to four tablespoons of chia seeds daily for 10 to 12 weeks generally show no effect on

weight or body fat. However, chia seeds are an excellent source of the plant-based omega-3 fatty acid, alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). They are also rich in dietary fiber and provide a small amount of protein. They add a nutty flavor sprinkled on cereal, vegetables or yogurt, but it’s mild enough that most people seem to appreciate them more for the crunch or texture they add, or as a nutrient boost. Combine about one teaspoon chia seeds to four teaspoons of water for a gel that can be used as a thickener in smoothies or salad dressings or as a vegan egg substitute. If you’re trying to lose weight, keep in mind that each tablespoon of dry chia

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seeds contains about 70 calories. So if chia dish lower in calories and still delicious. You can also create a vegetarian dish seeds are among the healthful foods you eat, substitute those calories for something by substituting mushrooms for all the meat or poultry in a recipe. else. Don’t just add them to However, in this case, make your current eating habits. sure the meal also includes a Q: Are mushrooms a good source of protein — for good vegetarian alternative example, at least a half-cup of to meat? dried beans or quarter-cup of A : Mushrooms have a nuts. “meaty” texture, and add a flaThis strategy can help you vor known as “umami” that follow a cancer-protective planttends to be very satisfying. based diet by keeping animal These qualities make them protein to no more than oneideal to include in pasta sauce, third of your plate. stews, casseroles, chili and NUTRITION You can also reduce risk for other mixed dishes to main- WISE colorectal cancer by eating no tain a rich flavor and texture By Karen Collins, more than 18 ounces of red while reducing or eliminating MS, RD, CDM meat weekly, which meets the meat they contain. That said, mushrooms are not a substi- one of the recommendations for cancer tute for meat nutritionally because they prevention from the American Institute for are not equivalent in protein amount or Cancer Research (AICR). The American Institute for Cancer Requality, and they do not provide comparasearch offers a Nutrition Hotline, 1-800ble amounts of iron, zinc or vitamin B-12. On the other hand, mushrooms do pro- 843-8114, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday vide a variety of nutrients with just 15 calo- through Friday. This free service allows you ries in a whole cup of raw chopped or to ask questions about diet, nutrition and sliced mushrooms. For example, they are cancer. A registered dietitian will return a good source of the mineral selenium, an your call, usually within three business days. Courtesy of the American Institute for antioxidant that may play a role in reducing risk of chronic diseases. Cancer Research. Questions for this column In dishes that contain large amounts of may be sent to “Nutrition Wise,” 1759 R St. meat, you can replace a quarter to a half of NW, Washington, DC 20009. Collins cannot the meat with mushrooms to make the respond to questions personally.

BEACON BITS

Nov. 20

ROSEMARY CLOONEY TRIBUTE

The Carlyle Club presents a Rosemary Clooney tribute concert, performed by Abbe Buck, a traditional jazz and popular vocalist on Thursday, Nov. 20 at 7:30 p.m. The Carlyle Club is located at 411 John Carlyle St., Alexandria, Va. The cost is $15. For more information, visit http://bit.ly/RosemaryClooneyTribute or call (703) 548-5953.

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WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 4

Crunchy, creamy sweet potato wedges Most everyone loves traditional potato wedges. Sweet potatoes offer a new way to enjoy potato wedges, yet these wedges are packed with beneficial beta-carotene. Oven-roasted with a light coating of olive oil, instead of fried, these crunchy-on-the-outside and creamy-on-the-inside wedges are seasoned with rosemary, garlic and mustard. There are more than 200 varieties of sweet potatoes, with colors ranging from white, yellow, orange and red to purple. Commonly referred to as “yams,” sweet potatoes actually come from a different botanical family. True yams are common in Asia, Africa and Caribbean and are usually found in international markets. Interestingly, sweet potatoes aren’t botanically related to potatoes, either. Sweet potatoes with their orange flesh are packed with beta-carotene — a carotenoid that may inhibit cancer cell growth, work as an antioxidant and improve immune response. The brighter the orange color of the flesh, the more betacarotene there is. Sweet potatoes also are rich in vitamin C, potassium and fiber. Though available year round, sweet potatoes are in peak season during November and December, finding their way onto holiday tables. Select firm sweet potatoes with no cracks, bruises or soft spots, and store them in a cool, dark, well-ventilated

place for up to 10 days. Fresh rosemary gives these brilliantly colored potatoes the enticing aromatic essence of pine. Garlic powder enhances sweet potato’s sweet-savory flavor, and ground mustard lends its rustic flavor. Olive oil binds the garlic and mustard seasonings to the potato and ensures a pleasingly crispy texture. Roasting the potato wedges creates heavenly caramelized sweetness without the added fat calories of frying. Sweet Potato Wedges with Rosemary is an easy-to-make spin off of popular potato wedges, sure to become a family favorite side dish with sandwiches and meals. These wedges can be made in advance — especially for the Thanksgiving meal, where culinary tasks can be overwhelming. Reheat in the oven for a crispy texture, or in the microwave for soft slices.

Place wedges in large bowl. Add rosemary, garlic powder, mustard and oil. Toss to coat well. Arrange potatoes on baking sheet, making sure not to overlap potatoes. Bake 15 minutes. Turn wedges over and bake another 15 minutes, or until potatoes are soft and beginning to brown.

Lightly season to taste with salt. Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs. Serve immediately. Makes 4 servings. Per serving: 146 calories, 7 g. total fat (<1 g. saturated fat), 20 g. carbohydrate, 2 g. protein, 3 g. dietary fiber, 54 mg. sodium. — American Institute for Cancer Research

BEACON BITS

Ongoing

DONATE OLD BIKES

Donate old bikes to DC-based Bikes for the World, an organization that donates bicycles and spare parts to charitable programs around the world. Pick-ups are available for 10 or more bikes. Volunteers are also welcome to collect, prep and participate in teams loading bicycles into shipping containers. For more information, visit www.bikesfortheworld.org or contact them at (703) 740-7856 or office@bikesfortheworld.org.

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3 small sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced lengthwise in 8 wedges 1 Tbsp. chopped fresh rosemary, plus a few sprigs for garnish ½ tsp. garlic powder ½ tsp. dry mustard powder 2 Tbsp. extra virgin olive or canola oil Salt Preheat oven to 450 degrees F.

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N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 4 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Ways to confront different opinions pecially about that candidate. I try to Dear Solutions: This is in reference to a neighbor avoid discussing it, so that we won’t who is a hater. Everyone who is not of argue. But she keeps sending me long, nasty e-mails about her religion or ethnic backthat candidate. ground is “crapola,” as she I wouldn’t care if these refers to us. were just her opinions, but She asked me if I was these are written by other Jewish, and when I said people, and they’re full of “no,” she said “Thank lies — actual lies about God.” I’ve heard her call facts that have been repeople whom she hardly searched and published knows “gay,” and she puts all over. down everyone else who is It bothers me that this dif ferent. She’s a gentile SOLUTIONS kind of false information is yenta. floating around, and that If you say anything to By Helen Oxenberg, MSW, ACSW people believe it. I don’t her, she gives you a mouth like an elephant’s backside. Is there any legal way we can stop her? We call her the Wicked Witch of the First Floor. — 17 Irritated Owners Dear Irritated: Unless she actually does something besides talking, there is no legal way to stop her. However, I have two suggestions. Since there are many of you who feel this way in your building, try inviting her to a meeting where grievances will be discussed. There, she can be told how her behavior is affecting people and their regard for her. It might be helpful if a religious leader in the community would be willing to speak to the group about mutual respect and the effect that hate speech has on people. Secondly, when she says these things, tell her clearly that you do not want to hear her nasty opinions, and that she will be isolated by the community if she doesn’t stop. You can always turn your back and just walk away. Remember, she has the freedom to speak, and you have the freedom not to listen. Readers: I would appreciate hearing some of your suggestions about this. If you wish, you can contact me with your thoughts. Thank you. Dear Solutions: I have strong political opinions and I’m pretty vocal about them. And my friends know it. I’m also very much in favor of a certain candidate. There’s one friend who disagrees with me politically, and es-

want to argue with her, but I do want to point out the truth by quoting reliable public sources that anyone who reads a newspaper, watches TV or reads a book knows. How do I do this without arguing or hurting the relationship? — Kate Dear Kate: Make a choice. Choice #1: You don’t want to hurt the relationship, so decide that the “e” in “email” means “e-rase,” “e-radicate,” “e-liminate” or, in today’s technological terminology, go back to the letter D, which stands for “delete.” Choice #2: You don’t want to be tempted to read these, so ask her to please stop sending you political material. Choice #3: You can’t stand to let these lies go unchallenged, so correct each one with reliable evidence. Then tell her that good friends can disagree and still stay friends. However, these issues are emotional, so don’t count on changing her mind. People discount truth, defend their lies, and go on believing whatever they want. Remember the old adage, “Truth will out.” Count on that, and you can choose to do nothing. © Helen Oxenberg, 2014. Send your comments, or questions to be considered for this column, to The Beacon, P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915. You may also email the author at helox72@comcast.net. To inquire about reprint rights, call (609) 6553684.

BEACON BITS

Ongoing

FREE COMPUTER CLASS

Glover Park Village presents a free computer basics class every Thursday by appointment at the Guy Mason Recreation Center, 3600 Calvert St. NW, Washington, D.C. No experience is required for this PCbased class, but an appointment is necessary. Bring your own laptop or use one provided by the village and learn from Nancee Simonson, who has done computer instruction in the workplace and currently teaches several computer classes for seniors. Classes in PowerPoint, Skype and other computer basics will be given once a month to the general public. For more information or to make an appointment, call (202) 436-5545 or email Events@GloverParkVillage.org.

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 4

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA OFFICE ON AGING

Spotlight On Aging VOLUME XXV, ISSUE 11

A newsletter for D.C. Seniors

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE

November 2014

Diabetes Seminar

By John M. Thompson, Ph.D., FAAMA The focus of my message in this month’s edition of “Spotlight on Aging” is dementia and the services that the District of Columbia Office on Aging is providing to improve the quality of life of those with dementia. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, dementia is a general term for a decline in mental ability that significantly interferes with daily life. Alzheimer’s is the most common type of dementia that accounts for 60 to 80 percent of cases. The second most common type of dementia is vascular dementia, which occurs after a stroke. Symptoms of dementia include, but are not limited to, impairment of memory, communication and language, reasoning and judgment, and visual perception. Dementia is caused by damage to brain cells. For those with Alzheimer’s disease, research indicates that they have high levels of certain proteins inside and outside of the brain cells that make it difficult for brain cells to stay healthy and to interact with each other. The hippocampus is the brain region responsible for learning and memory in the brain, and the brain cells in this region are often the first ones damaged in the earlier stages of Alzheimer’s. In order to determine if one has Alzheimer’s, it is essential for the patient to visit his/her primary care physician. The process includes the careful examination by physicians of the patient’s medical history, a physical examination, laboratory tests, and the changes associated with the way the individual carries

out day-to-day, familiar functions. The physician can diagnose a patient with dementia with a high degree of certainty; however, it is difficult to determine the type of dementia because the changes in the brain that are attributable to different types of dementia can overlap across dementia types. For a specific diagnosis on the type of dementia, it would be necessary for the patient to visit a neurologist or geropsychologist. There is no cure or treatment for most progressive dementias, such as Alzheimer’s disease, but there are prescription drugs that can temporarily slow the progression of symptoms and there are drug treatments that may temporarily improve symptoms. There are also non-drug therapies that can alleviate some symptoms of dementia. Such treatment options include the identification of environmental triggers that exacerbate stresses in people who suffer from dementia, and modifying the environment to resolve obstacles to comfort and ease the individual’s mind. Another treatment option that I am very excited to introduce to you is Club Memory. Through a partnership with Johns Hopkins Medicine’s Sibley Memorial Hospital, the District of Columbia Office on Aging has opened Club Memory on the east end of the city. Club Memory is a stigma-free social club for people with early-stage Alzheimer’s, mild cognitive impairment or other forms of dementia, and their spouses, partners and caregivers. See DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE, page 34

Seniors at Congress Heights Senior Wellness Center participate in a warm-up during a recent diabetes seminar. The next seminar will be held on Nov. 15 at Washington Seniors Wellness Center. For more information, call 202-581-9355.

Mayor Vincent C. Gray, D.C. Office on Aging and the DCOA Senior Service Network present...

2014 Mayor’s Annual Senior Holiday Celebration Wednesday, December 10, 2014 10 a.m. ! 2 p.m. D.C. Armory 2001 East Capitol Street, SE Washington, DC 20003 Live entertainment, dancing, health screenings, wellness and safety informa"on exhibits, immuniza"ons, food, and giveaways!

Call (202) 724-5626 for ticket reservations. To request exhibitor space, call (202) 724-5626. Parking is limited and public transportation is encouraged. The D.C. Armory is located near the Stadium-Armory station on the Metrorail Blue and Orange lines Government of the District of Columbia Vincent C. Gray, Mayor

N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 4 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

D.C. OFFICE

AGING NEWSLETTER

Caregiving Resources November is National Family Caregivers Month and Alzheimer’s Awareness Month. According to the National Family Caregiver Institute there are between 25 and 52 million family caregivers in America. Family caregivers provide at least twothirds of all home care. The Office on Aging, through the Office on Aging Senior Service Network, provides a variety of programs and services to assist persons caring for their loved ones.

home care aides to provide nonmedical care and help around the home. They also assist families on how to cope with the responsibilities of caring for a loved one, and operate a Training Institute for direct care workers and family caregivers. If you need assistance with support for your loved one in the home, contact 202-638-2382 or info@homecarepartners.org.

D.C. Caregivers’ Institute

Provides adult day care services for DC residents age 60 and older. Contact 202-347-7527 for more information.

A social worker conducts a confidential assessment for program participants in the convenience of their home. The purpose of the assessment is to gain information about the caregiving situation in order to refer clients to helpful services and resources. The assessment will focus on the caregiver’s needs and concerns. During the assessment, the caregiver will complete a Caregiver Support Plan that makes recommendations concerning: • Ways to decrease stress, and suggestions for self-care practices. • People who can help with caregiving tasks. • Resources available through the senior services network supported by the D.C. Office on Aging. • Items and services reimbursable through the Caregiver Flex Account. • How to best use the other services of the District of Columbia Caregivers’ Institute. For more information, contact 202-464-1513, info@dccaregivers.org or www.dccaregivers.org.

Homecare Partners Homecare Partners is a nonprofit organization funded by the Office on Aging that sends well-trained

Downtown Cluster’s Geriatric Day Care Center

Genevieve N. Johnson Senior Day Care Center Genevieve N. Johnson Senior Day Care Center provides a combination of geriatric day care, recreation/socialization, and health promotion services for frail elderly in need of assistance with mobility, well elderly with independent mobility, and seniors wanting to participate in various activities of interest. Contact 202-723-8537 or email Rjohn9748@verizon.net.

Weinberg Wellness & Arts Center Iona’s Weinberg Wellness & Arts Center cares for and engages people with memory loss, diabetes, stroke, Parkinson’s and other chronic conditions. It emphasizes their unique strengths and interests. The center is located at 4125 Albemarle St. NW, in Washington, D.C. It is open Monday through Friday from 8:15 a.m. until 5 p.m. A heart-healthy and diabetes-friendly lunch and snack are served. A wide variety of engaging and enjoyable activities are offered. Transportation options are available. Visit iona.org or call 202-9661055.

Affordable Housing for Single Adults Mark your calendar to apply for SOME’s (So Others May Eat) single room occupancy units. Initial applications will be taken by phone on Jan. 13 and 15, 2015 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Those who meet income and other restrictions will be asked to come in to

continue the application process. The single room units share lounges, dining rooms, kitchens and bathrooms. Each unit is furnished. Residents pay 30 percent of their income. Call 202-797-8806 on those dates to apply or for more information.

Hot off the Presses: LongTerm Care Planning Guide DCOA has released “The LongTerm Care Planning Guide,” which provides a better understanding of long-term care for yourself or someone who requires assistance. Long-term care is provided when a person of any age requires assistance with their physical or emotional needs over an extended period of time. This may be needed due to a terminal condition, disability, illness, injury, or the growing infirmity of an aging adult. Although people receiving long-term care may also need medical care, longterm care is not part of traditional medicine. Medical care services aim to improve or correct certain medical conditions. Long-term care services, in contrast, help a person maintain as much independence as possible by assisting them with daily activities. These may include any or all the following: • Walking • Bathing • Dressing • Driving • Eating and/or preparing meals

• Getting to and from medical appointments • Maintaining and repairing the home • Shopping and running errands • Managing money and paying bills • Doing the laundry and other household chores Nearly two out of every three Americans will need extended help in one or more of these areas during their lifetime, and most of these people will be elderly. Their need may be temporary or it may be necessary for many years; how long depends on the reason the care is needed. The need for long-term care may also come suddenly, when you may be completely unprepared. Unfortunately, most of us learn about long-term care the hard way — right at the moment when the care is needed. This is when most of us discover we are ill-prepared with no plan in place. For more information about “The Long-Term Care Planning Guide,” or to get copies for yourself, group or your organization, call 202-724-5622.

Caregiver Respite Program Caring for someone who has mental or physical limitations, and not receiving pay? Feeling exhausted or burned out as a caregiver? If the answer to these questions is yes, then let us assist you in finding a respite provider so you can take a much-needed break! We assist in locating short-term relief to families and primary caregivers of children and adults with disabilities and older adults by linking families to our online database of respite care providers. Our goal is to restore and strengthen their ability to continue providing care for their loved ones. Contact Linda Irizarry at 202535-1442 or Linda.irizarry@dc.gov

D.C. Caregivers Online Chat at Noon Held bi-monthly on Tuesdays, the caregiver chat is a web-based conversation to provide information and tips to persons who are caring for a loved one. At noon, log on and participate by asking questions or sharing information with

others. If you’re not available at noon, log on and hit replay when it is convenient. The next chat dates for November are: Tuesday, Nov. 11, noon Tuesday, Nov. 25, noon Visit www.dcoa.dc.gov for login information. For more support by ward, contact the agency leading services in your ward: Ward 1 - Terrific, Inc. Joseph McCarley 202-387-9000 Ward 2 - Terrific, Inc. Joann Ellsberry 202-595-1990 Ward 3 - Iona Senior Services 202-966-1055 Ward 4 -Terrific, Inc. Edwinta Jenkins 202-882-1824 Ward 5 - Seabury Resources Ward 5 202-529-8701 Ward 6 - Seabury Resources Ward 6 202-397-1725 Ward 7 - East River Family Strengthening Collaborative 202534-4880 Ward 8 - Family Matters of Greater Washington 202-562-6860

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 4

D.C. OFFICE

Adult Day Care Celebrates Anniversary Downtown Cluster’s Geriatric Day Care Center recently celebrated its 39th Anniversary at the Washington Navy Yard. Approximately 200 center participants, their caregivers and family members gathered to celebrate the anniversary under the theme “Aging Strong.” Caregivers Linda Bowles and Rogeria Westbrook shared their caregiving stories during the event. Westbrook quit her job and relocated from the Midwest to care for her aunt, who has dementia. Her aunt, who spoke 13 languages, was an accomplished concert pianist and soloist, and a professor from the University of the District of Columbia. Although there are other relatives in the area, none Caregiver Rogeria Westbrook attends the became actively engaged in or Downtown Cluster’s anniversary gala. showed concern for her care or well-being. Westbrook shared The mistress of ceremonies for the with attendees that although she no event was Aisha Karimah, director of longer speaks, her eyes light up and community affairs for NBC4. Washingshe smiles when spoken to in another ton D.C. Special greetings were also language. provided by Council of the District of Bowles is one of six children who Columbia Chairman Phil Mendelson care in rotation for their mother, who and Elois H. Jones, founder, Downtown is restricted to a wheelchair after an Cluster’s. accidental injury. Bowles is the priThomye Cave, executive director mary caregiver, and all agree they recognized the following “Unsung would not be able to continue working Heroes” for their continued support were it not for the Day Care Center. over the years to Downtown ClusAfter a brief illness and a stay in a re- ter’s: habilitation center, she did not want to Andre Davis become involved in physical therapy Antwanye Ford, Enlightened In(PT) and informed the therapists corporated there that she would participate in PT Andre Rogers, Enlightened Incorwhen she returned to the Geriatric porated Day Care Center. Reverend Alonzo D. Hart, Jr. These testimonies echo the sentiBrandi Lester ment of many caregivers who value the New Royal Harmoneers services provided by the Downtown Dr. Paul S. Rhodes Cluster’s Geriatric Day Care Center. Gala participants danced the night The community-based, non-residential away to the sounds of Blues and old day center provides vital services like R&B performed by Memphis Gold, transportation and meals for seniors with special guest Barbara Washingwho can spend their days occupied ton. Participants wore some of their with creating art, engaging in recre- finest clothes, many adorned with seational therapy and counseling, and quins and bugle beads. They appeared leading active social lives. to be having flashes of memory as The main focus is to prevent fur- they danced as they did years ago to ther emotional, physical or cognitive “Down Home Blues” and ended with deterioration of the elderly and to James Brown. offer a humanistic alternative to costA great time was had by all in atly institutional care. tendance at the annual event. Center participant and poet in resiFor more information about daydence Iola Hall shared her poetic care services for older adults at words of wisdom with those in atten- Downtown Cluster’s Geriatric Day dance to many chuckles and applause. Care Center, call 202-347-7527.

AGING NEWSLETTER

No Wrong Door D.C. Awarded “No Wrong Door” Grant to Improve Community-Based Services and Supports DCOA, in partnership with other D.C. Health and Human Services agencies, was awarded a threeyear planning grant through the Administration for Community Living, within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The grant is entitled, “Transforming State Long Term Services and Supports Access Programs and Functions into a No Wrong Door System

for All Programs and All Payers.” DCOA is collaborating with the D.C. Department of Health Care Finance, Department of Developmental Ser vices, Department of Behavioral Health, and Department of Human Services, among other agencies, to improve the coordinated response to “transforming, streamlining and personalizing services into a No Wrong Door (NWD) System.” For more information, visit www.acl.gov.

Train to Become an Abassador The D.C. Office on Aging (DCOA) Ambassador Program is a free, interactive, member-based program designed to reach out to older adults and their caregivers to help them learn about the services and resources available to them through DCOA. If you are interested in expanding your network and educating older adults about the services and resources available to them, join us for our next Ambassador Training Workshop to learn about all of the programs and services that DCOA offers to the community and how you can become

an Ambassador. All workshops are held at DCOA Headquarters and include: an overview of Office on Aging programs and services, information on how to access resources, and guidance on your role as an advocate.

Next Training Dates Nov. 13, special session at Washington Seniors Wellness Center. Call 202-581-9355 to register Nov. 20, 10 a.m. to noon, DCOA, 500 K St. NE. For more information or to register, call 202-724-5622.

Club Memory Club Memory is a stigma-free social club for people with early-stage Alzheimer’s, mild cognitive impairment or other forms of dementia, and their spouses, partners and caregivers. At Club Memory, conversation, camaraderie and even laughter among peers who truly understand each other open the doorway to liv-

ing life to its fullest in the face of a dementia diagnosis. If you or someone you care about has been diagnosed with early-stage Alzheimer’s, mild cognitive impairment or any other form of dementia, know that there is hope and support for you and your family. Please call 202-7245622 to register.

Intergenerational Program Seeks Volunteers The Office on Aging is currently seeking seniors interested in volunteering to build relationships with, mentor and guide our District’s youngest learners in D.C. Public Schools.

This program is designed to bring together senior citizens and early childhood students to work together on learning experiences in the classroom. For more information, call 202724-5622 to express an interest.

N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 4 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

D.C. OFFICE

Director’s message

AGING NEWSLETTER

Community Calendar

From page 31

Meetings at Club Memory include light refreshments and coffee and engaging activities consisting of board games, puzzles, sign-alongs, trivia and challenges, and sharing of resources and fruitful conversations. Participants also go on trips to museums, restaurants, and other fun places ideal for the awesome fellowship. In addition to our exciting partnership with Sibley Memorial Hospital, I am also excited about our partnership with the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA), especially as it celebrates National Memory Screening Day on Tuesday, Nov. 18. This is a very special day as AFA continues to promote early detection of memory problems and to encourage appropriate intervention for persons who may be experiencing memory issues. There will be free, confidential memory screenings facilitated by trained health professionals, and educational materials available for seniors and their caregivers so that they can learn more about memory loss and brain health. A memory screening is ideal for anyone who is concerned about memory loss or experiencing warning signs of dementia, which include, but are not limited to, trouble finding words, trouble with completing familiar actions, misplacing familiar objects, making bad decisions, loss of interest in important responsibilities, and expressing false beliefs. You may also be an ideal candidate for a memory screening if your family members and friends have noticed changes in you, or if you believe that you are at risk due to a family history of Alzheimer’s disease or related illness.

November Events

13th • 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

5th • 9 a.m. A Ward 5 Advisory Council meeting will be held at Seabury Resources for Aging’s office, 2900 Newton St. NE. For more information, contact Vivian Grayton at 202-5298701.

8th • 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The New Bethel Baptist Church will hold a health fair with flu vaccines, blood pressure screening, testing for HIV and hepatitis C, vision and glaucoma screening, diabetes and kidney screening, sickle cell testing and more. The church is located at 1739 9th St. NW. For more information, call Lorraine Beard at 202-276-1640 or email lojbeard@aol.com.

12th • 9 a.m. The Washington Seniors Wellness Center will hold a diabetes symposium. The center is located at 500 K St. NE. For more information, call 202-724-5622.

12th • 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. A Community Health, Wellness and Informational Fair will be held at the Overlook Apartments, 3700 9th St. SE. Contact Katrina Polk at 202-373-1900 for more information.

Even if you don’t have any memory issues, you can take the screening as a way to collect baseline memory data that could be compared to the health of your brain in the future. Let me be clear that a memory screening is not a tool to diagnose any specific type of disease and does not substitute for a physician’s consultation. Before ending this message, I would also like to inform you that our office recently secured funding from the U.S. Administration for Community Living to establish the District’s Alzheimer’s Disease Initiative. This is very exciting

500 K St., N.E., Washington, D.C. 20002 202-724-5622 • www.dcoa.dc.gov John M. Thompson, Ph.D., FAAMA Executive Director Darlene Nowlin Editor Krystal Branton Photographer The D.C. Office on Aging does not discriminate against anyone based on actual

13th • 11:30 a.m. Delta Towers will hold a town hall meeting at 1400 Florida Ave. NE. For more information, contact Vivian Grayton at 202-529-8701.

19th • 1 p.m. The D.C. Office on Aging will present information on its programs and services to the Shiloh Senior Citizens Club, Shiloh Baptist Church, 1509 9th St. NW. For more information, contact Alice Thompson at 202-535-1321.

26th Registration closes on Nov. 26 for the Iona Senior Services Take Charge Age Well Academy, which will meet weekly from 2 to 4 p.m., Dec. 3 to Jan. 28. The series covers meaningful choices in retirement, estate planning, brain fitness, aging in place and more. The fee is $115, and scholarships are available. Classes are held at Iona, 4125 Albemarle St. NW. To register, call Iona at 202-895-9448 or email registration@iona.org.

because, through this funding opportunity, our office plans to accomplish three major objectives. First, we will increase access to home and community-based services and supports for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and Related Disorders (ADRD) living alone in the District of Columbia, especially those who have low to moderate income. Second, we will increase opportunities for older adults with intellectual and development disabilities and ADRD to receive high quality, person-centered day services customized to meet their individ-

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.

The United Planning Organization hosts a senior housing fair at the Petey Greene Community Service Center, 2907 Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave. SE. For more information, call Nickie McKenzie at 202-210-6082.

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. The Office on Aging is in partnership with the District of Columbia Recycling Program.

ual needs. Third, we will improve the ability for professional and family caregivers to manage behavioral symptoms of ADRD and increase respite and support service to caregivers. To learn more about the Club Memory Program, or to find a location near you to receive a free memory screening, please contact us at 202-724-5622. You can also contact us if you are interested in learning more about our Alzheimer’s Disease Initiative, or if you would like to partner with us as we improve the quality of life of those with dementia.

Caregiver Summit on Nov. 18 The D.C. Office on Aging Lifespan Respite Program, AARP, the Alzheimer’s Association and Iona Senior Services will present the 2014 Caregiver Summit “Uplifting Caregivers Across the Lifespan” on Nov. 18 from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Iona Senior Services, 4125 Albemarle Street, NW. This summit will uplift and increase caregivers’ and professionals’ knowledge on caregiving topics across the lifespan. The event is free but registration is required. To register, please email linda.irizarry@dc.gov or call 202-535-1442.

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 4

Say you saw it in the Beacon

Money Law &

MUTUAL FUNDS FALTER After a solid six months, mutual funds slipped in value in the third quarter LESS BONDED WITH BONDS Liquidity concerns and new regulations may signal it’s time to sell bonds STUDENT DEBT LINGERS More older Americans are carrying student loan debt in retirement BURIAL BENEFITS Veterans and spouses are eligible for many funeral benefits through the VA

Social Security benefits rise little in 2015 By Stephen Ohlemacher Millions of older Americans who rely on federal benefits will get a 1.7 percent increase in their monthly payments next year. It’s the third year in a row the increase will be less than 2 percent. The annual cost-of-living adjustment, or COLA, affects payments to more than 70 million Social Security recipients, disabled veterans and federal retirees. That’s more than a fifth of the country. The increase amounts to about $20 a month for the typical Social Security recipient. The government announced the benefit increase in late October when it released the latest measure of consumer prices. By law, the increase is based on inflation, which is well below historical averages so far this year. For example, gasoline prices have dropped over the past year, while the cost of clothing is up by less than 1 percent, according to the September inflation report. The cost of meat, fish and eggs is up by nearly 10 percent, but the overall cost of food is up just 3.1 percent. Medical costs, which disproportionately affect older Americans, are up 1.9 percent over the past year.

Congress enacted automatic increases for Social Security beneficiaries in 1975, when inflation was high and there was a lot of pressure to regularly raise benefits. For the first 35 years, the COLA was less than 2 percent only three times. Next year, the COLA will be less than 2 percent for the fifth time in six years. The 2014 increase was 1.5 percent; the year before it was 1.7 percent. Social Security is financed by a 12.4 percent payroll tax on the first $117,000 of a worker’s wages — half is paid by the worker and half is paid by the employer. Next year, the wage cap will increase to $118,500, the Social Security Administration said. About 59 million retirees, disabled workers, spouses and children get Social Security benefits. The average monthly payment is $1,192. The COLA also affects benefits for about 4 million disabled veterans, 2.5 million federal retirees and their survivors, and more than 8 million people who get Supplemental Security Income, the disability program for the poor.

Determining the COLA amount By law, the cost-of-living adjustment is

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based on the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers, or CPI-W, a broad measure of consumer prices generated by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. It measures price changes for food, housing, clothing, transportation, energy, medical care, recreation and education. The COLA is calculated by comparing consumer prices in July, August and September each year with prices in the same three months from the previous year. If prices go up over the course of the year, benefits go up, starting with payments delivered in January. “The COLA helps beneficiaries of all ages maintain their standard of living, keeping many from falling into poverty by providing partial protection against inflation,”

said Jo Ann Jenkins, the new CEO of AARP. “In the last several years we have had extremely low inflation,” noted economist Polina Vlasenko, a research fellow at the American Institute for Economic Research. “Basically because inflation is low, the cost-of-living adjustment is going to be low, too. It’s supposed to just compensate you for inflation.”

Healthcare costs an issue Advocates for seniors say the government’s measure of inflation doesn’t accurately reflect price increases faced by older Americans because they tend to spend more of their income on healthcare. The See SOCIAL SECURITY, page 38

Law & Money | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 4 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Mutual funds faltered in the third quarter By Stan Choe Take a breath. After delivering solid and consistent returns through the first half of this year, most types of mutual funds faltered in the third quarter. It wasn’t a disaster — most of the declines were modest, and the largest categories of stock and bond funds were virtually flat. But it was a letdown for anyone who got accustomed to steady and widespread quarterly gains. Of the 105 mutual fund categories that Morningstar tracks, 76 fell from July through September. Compare that with the prior quarter, when only six categories declined, and those were mostly niche funds that few investors own.

Here’s a look at the trends that moved the markets: Small-cap stock funds had some of the biggest drops. The third quarter marked a return to earth for funds that specialize in stocks of smaller companies. Funds investing in a mix of small-cap growth and value stocks fell an average of 6.8 percent. Last year, those same funds were stars, returning an average 37.4 percent. At the time, investors were snapping up smaller companies on expectations that their earnings would grow faster than those of big companies. But their popularity caused problems. Stock prices of smaller companies rose more quickly than their earnings, enough

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for investors to worry that small-cap stocks had become too expensive. The Standard & Poor’s 600 index of small-cap stocks began the third quarter trading at 22 times its earnings per share, for example. That was well above its average price-earnings ratio of 17 over the last decade. By the end of the third quarter, the index’s P/E ratio was down to 20. Large-cap stock funds treaded water. Large-cap blend funds hold more assets than any other fund category. They own a mix of the biggest companies, such as Apple, Exxon Mobil and Google, and were virtually unchanged over the quarter. They ticked lower by an average of 0.1 percent, a big step down from the 6.4 percent return that they delivered in the first half of the year. Many large-cap blend funds benchmark themselves against the S&P 500, which wobbled up and down through the quarter. Good news for them: The index set a record high on Sept. 18. Bad news: A late-September stumble surrendered most of the gains. The index returned 1.1 percent during the quarter, including dividends — its weakest return since the last quarter of 2012. That’s when economists were warning that hikes in income tax rates and cuts in government spending would send the economy off a “fiscal cliff’’ unless Congress made changes. Most bond funds had a muted quarter. The mutual funds that form the core of most investors’ bond portfolios, intermediate-term bond funds, were essentially flat last quarter. They lost an average 0.1 percent. It’s a letdown from the first half of the year, when intermediate-term bond funds returned 4.1 percent. All of the other 31 categories of bond funds tracked by Morningstar also registered gains in the year’s first six months,

benefiting from an unexpected drop in interest rates. When rates are falling, it causes the price of existing bonds to go up as their yields suddenly look more attractive. Recent strengthening in the job market means economists expect the Federal Reserve to begin hiking its key short-term interest rate target sometime next year. The central bank is also on track to halt its bond-buying stimulus program. That’s raised expectations for interest rates to begin rising, at least slowly, which would act as a drag on bond returns. [See “When’s the right time to sell bond funds?” on page 39.] Some specialized stock funds remained healthy. Indian stock funds were stars last quarter, as they’ve been since the election of a new prime minister, Narendra Modi, in May. Investors expect Modi to push through reforms to tame India’s high inflation and thicket of bureaucracy, and the country’s stock market has soared in response. [See “Why stock funds in India top the charts,” on page 40.] Healthcare stock funds were also winners, returning an average 4.6 percent. It continues a years-long trend, as healthcare stocks have shaken off worries that the Affordable Care Act would hurt their earnings. Healthcare stock funds have returned an annualized 20.7 percent over the last five years. No fund category has returned more. Gold-related funds were the quarter’s biggest losers. All 10 mutual funds with the worst returns focus on gold stocks. Low inflation and expectations for rising interest rates usually mean investors sell gold, and its price fell in early October to its lowest level since Jan. 2. — AP

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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 — N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 4

Time to lock in your stock market gains? By Elliot Raphaelson If you have been investing in the stock market for the last five years or so, you know that the results have been excellent. Since the stock recovery started in March 2009, the market has increased at an annual rate of approximately 25 percent through July 2014. It is not unusual for the market to have a “correction” — a drop of 10 percent or more — at the end of a lengthy period of stock market gains. However, no one can tell you when or if you should protect your gains in some way. How you proceed de-

pends on a number of considerations. If you have a stable job and more than 20 years before retirement, and you have a diversified common stock portfolio, there is no compelling reason to sell your common stocks, whether they are in mutual funds, exchange-traded funds (ETFs) or individual securities. Because, on a long-term basis, common stocks should do better than bonds or other conservative investments — such as CDs, savings accounts and money-market instruments — you should maintain a significant percentage of your portfolio in

common stocks. Even if there is a short-term fall in stock prices, time is still on your side. In the long run, as long as you maintain a diversified portfolio of common stocks, you should be able to stay ahead of inflation and have a prosperous retirement.

On the other hand, if you are retired or close to retirement, it is important to have a balanced portfolio, with a significant proportion invested in bonds. Balancing is important. I do it at least once a year. If you have not balanced your portfolio recently, it is likely that the proSee MARKET GAINS, page 38

Some should rebalance

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Law & Money | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

Market gains From page 37 portion of common stocks has increased relative to bonds. For example, assume you determined a few years ago that you wanted your portfolio to be 60 percent stocks and 40 percent bonds. Because of the increase in common stock prices, your portfolio now might be 70 percent stocks vs. 30 percent bonds. It would be prudent to sell some of your stock holdings and go back to a 60-40 ratio. In that way you are protecting some of your gains in case there is a general fall in common stock prices. It is hard to predict Federal Reserve policy. However, with interest rates as low as they are, it is likely that they will trend upwards.

N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 4 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

If long-term rates increase substantially, long-term bonds, even Treasurys, will fall substantially in value. Thus, it’s prudent not to have the majority of your bond holdings in long-term issues. I maintain most of my holdings in intermediate-term bonds (both in mutual funds and ETFs.) In this way, I receive moderate income without a great deal of capital risk should long-term rates increase a great deal. If you have short-term needs, such as tuition payments or a down payment for a home, then you should keep these funds in short-term investments, such as shortterm bonds, Treasury bills and moneymarket instruments.

individual common stocks that have increased greatly in value, you have other options. The most conservative is to sell all of your shares and conserve all your profits. However, if you are confident that the underlying company will continue to increase its profits, and believe the stock will continue to do well, you can sell some of your holdings and reinvest the proceeds in more conservative vehicles, such as diversified mutual funds or ETFs, or intermediate-term bonds. Another alternative is to use a stop-loss order. That’s an order to sell a stock that is triggered when the share price reaches a specified level. For example, suppose you bought a stock at $20 per share. It is now

selling for $38. You think it will increase more in value but you want to protect some of your gains. You can put a stop-loss order at $35. If the stock does fall to $35, your shares will be sold at prevailing market prices. If the stock continues to increase in value, you can cancel your previous stop-loss order and place a new one at a higher price. If you have done well in the stock market, congratulations. If you want to protect your gains, however, you should consider some of the options discussed. Commons stocks prices don’t always go in one direction. Elliot Raphaelson welcomes your questions and comments at elliotraph@gmail.com. © 2014 Elliot Raphaelson. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Social Security

Beaudoin, president of the National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association. “News of the cost-of-living adjustment for the coming year always is eagerly awaited by the countless Americans who rely on the increase to keep up with the rising price of food, housing, transportation and medical care,” Beaudoin said in a statement. “However, despite the partial relief this COLA will provide, the announcement is a reminder that our method for calculating the increasing cost of goods and services is out of sync with the reality faced by millions of federal (retirees), Social Security recipients and military retirees.” — AP

To sell or not to sell? If you have substantial investments in

From page 35 rise in medical costs has slowed in recent years, but people hit with serious illnesses can still see their individual costs soar. People on Medicare, the government health insurance program for older Americans, usually have their Part B premiums deducted from their Social Security payments. The good news is that premiums, which cover outpatient care, are scheduled to stay the same next year — $104.90 a month. However, federal retirees face a 3.8 percent increase on average in their health insurance premiums next year, said Joseph A.

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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 — N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 4

What’s the right time to sell bond funds? By Stan Choe If bonds start to tumble, should I sell my bond mutual fund? It’s a question investors are asking as expectations rise for a more volatile bond market. But a better question may be: How difficult will it be for my fund manager to sell? Worries are increasing that some managers will have a tough time finding buyers for their bonds if a flood of investors tries to pull out of their funds at the same time. It’s a concept called liquidity, and a lack of it can accelerate losses for bonds when prices are falling, at least in the short term. It would likely have less effect on fund investors willing to hold on through the volatility than those who sell amid a storm. But it’s another risk that all bond fund investors need to consider.

Why a concern now? The worries partially stem from new regulations that have led to banks holding fewer bonds on their balance sheets. Previously, banks’ willingness to hold inventories of bonds offered a buffer when sellers in the market outnumbered buyers. Inventories of investment-grade and high-yield bonds at Wall Street banks and other primary dealers are now just 20 percent of where they were in 2007, according to State Street Global Advisors. The areas of the market most likely to be hurt by the liquidity concerns include corporate bonds, particularly high-yield bonds that are issued by companies with weak credit ratings, said Dan Farley, chief investment officer of the investment solutions group at State Street Global Advisors. Treasurys, the largest sector of the

bond market, aren’t a source of concern.

Periodic fears affect munis Some bond fund investors are already familiar with the phenomenon, such as those focused on bonds issued by cities and other local governments. Several times in the last six years, fear has pushed investors to rush for the exits out of municipal-bond mutual funds. Managers typically keep a portion of their funds’ portfolios in cash, so they have some ready for departing investors. But when a flood of sell orders converge, it forces managers to sell bonds to raise more cash. In past periods of low liquidity, when managers went looking for buyers for their muni bonds, they often found many others also looking to sell. That caused municipal bond prices to tumble, which further frightened fund investors, leading them to pull yet more money, and fueled even more forced selling. Last year, the trigger was worries about rising interest rates and the creditworthiness of Puerto Rico and other municipal borrowers. Investors began withdrawing their money from muni funds in the spring, and the largest category of municipal-bond funds lost 3.1 percent during the second quarter, according to Morningstar. A financial analyst’s highly publicized prediction for a wave of defaults in the municipal bond market sparked a similar rush for the exits in late 2010. Investors pulled $13.3 billion from muni bond funds that December, according to the Investment Company Institute. The toughest conditions, though, were during the financial crisis in 2008, according to John Miller, who leads the $95 billion municipal bond investing team at Nu-

veen Investment Management. “In 2008, there was a feeling of being handcuffed,” Miller said. The few buyers available demanded steeper price cuts, and for a smaller number of bonds than he was looking to sell. Following each of those episodes, though, municipal bonds rebounded once the rush for the exits subsided. Miller’s Nuveen High Yield Municipal Bond fund (NHMAX), for example, has returned 13.5 percent this year after losing 4.7 percent last year.

Other types of funds High-yield corporate bond funds saw a similar scare in August. Investors pulled out of such funds following warnings from

the Federal Reserve that junk bond valuations may be “stretched” and worries that interest rate hikes may come sooner than expected. That led to an average 1.2 percent drop for high-yield bond funds that month, their first loss in 11 months, according to Morningstar. High-yield funds have continued to slide, losing .9 percent between Sept. 21 and Oct. 21. Some areas of the bond market are better insulated from the liquidity concerns. Buyers of high-quality bonds continue to outnumber sellers, for example. “Where we operate, it’s very healthy,” said Rob Galusza, who runs Fidelity’s LimSee SELLING BONDS, page 40

Law & Money | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 4 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Why stock funds in India top the charts By Stan Choe To find the year’s best-performing mutual funds, head east. In India, excitement surrounding a new

prime minister has catapulted stocks higher, and mutual funds that focus on the country have reaped the gains. The Matthews India fund (MINDX) has re-

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turned 52 percent in 2014 through Oct. 22, for example. That’s more than any other fund that Morningstar tracks, and it’s more than five times the gain of the Standard & Poor’s 500 index. Only seven mutual funds have returned more than 30 percent this year, and five of them focus exclusively on Indian stocks. Nearly all of those big returns have come since the May elections that swept Prime Minister Narendra Modi into power. Hopes are high that the government can push through reforms to invigorate the economy of the world’s second-most populous country. India has struggled with high inflation and a slow-moving bureaucracy that has hurt growth, analysts say. Investors have seen some positive changes already, but the most difficult work remains and could take many years to implement. Most investors are content to keep just a small slice of their portfolios in Indian stocks. Usually, that means owning a general emerging-market stock fund that also includes China, Brazil and other developing economies.

But this year’s strong returns have lured more dollars to what’s historically been a small corner of the market. Investors have plugged a net $2 billion into Indian stock funds this year. Still, the category has just $7 billion in total assets versus $438 billion for general emerging-market funds.

Selling bonds

ing to either buy or sell. It’s impossible to know when the next liquidity scare could hit the bond market — the trigger is likely to be an unexpected event that shocks investors. But if everyone is exiting bonds, and a lack of liquidity is sending prices down even further, it may make for a good buying opportunity for those who were already interested in buying. Similarly, for those looking to sell, it may pay to do so before there’s a run on the exits. — AP

From page 39 ited Term Bond fund (FJRLX), which invests in shorter-term corporate bonds and Treasurys. “People feel like they can withstand the volatility there.”

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The liquidity concerns don’t mean investors should abandon their bond funds, but State Street’s Farley says it could influence the timing for investors who are look-

Advice from a fund manager Those investors should keep in mind that Indian stocks have historically seen sharper swings than U.S. stocks, said Sunil Asnani, lead portfolio manager of the Matthews India fund. He’s optimistic that Indian stocks can keep rising in the long term, but anyone looking to make money in the next year may be disappointed. Here are excerpts from a recent conversation. Answers have been edited for length and clarity. Q: How much of this year’s gains for Indian stocks are due solely to Modi’s election? A: If you look at the fundamentals of companies that were doing fine before the See INDIAN STOCKS, page 41

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Law & Money

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 4

Indian stocks From page 40 elections, they haven’t gotten dramatically better. And the fundamentals of companies that were not doing well before he came into office haven’t become better, either. My conclusion is this rally has been driven primarily by the Modi wave and the sentiment of what Mr. Modi can do. Q: Have any big reforms actually gone through yet? A: The big-bang reforms — labor, land, agriculture — they are still not coming. I don’t expect these to happen overnight. If they’re able to achieve 50 percent of them in the next few years, that will be a good achievement. Q: Are you worried then that the market’s expectations are too high? A: In India’s case, they are never realistic. Maybe they are expecting too much, especially on companies where their valuation is hinged on reforms taking place. There, they will see a lot of disappointment. Q: So is it foolish to get into an Indian stock fund now? Wouldn’t that just be buying high? A: If you look at the valuations of stocks, they are slightly above their historical fiveand seven-year averages. So if you’re making a shorter-term investment, they can go in either direction. But if you take a longer-term view, then

you might see returns aligned with earnings growth for the companies. Nominal growth of the economy easily should be between 10 percent and 15 percent each year, with real growth of 5 to 7 percent and inflation on top of that. So, with a longer-term view, it’s an easier call. In the next 12 months, it’s very hard to say. Q: You were a police superintendent in India and may have a better view on this than others: How worried should investors be about the quality of accounting and corporate governance at Indian companies? A: I would quote an investor — his name is Rob Arnott — and he says what is comfortable in investing is rarely profitable. You will find a lot of companies with bad accounting standards in India. But at the same time, you will be able to find well-run companies and good entrepreneurs who are trying to navigate through the complex system of bureaucracy and the demographics of India. If you find them and stay with them in the long run, you should be fine. Q: What misconceptions do investors have about Indian stocks? A: People consider investing in India for diversification. Now, diversification means different things for different people. When there’s a crisis in the developed markets, a person looking for diversification is hoping their

investment will be safe in India. But it is quite the opposite. In 2008, the average Indian stock fund lost 64 percent versus a 37 percent loss for the S&P 500. When there is a correction in the United States, there is a bigger correction in India, so the Indian market doesn’t provide any diversification in the short term. If you’re looking for long-term differen-

tiated returns, then you will see India doing better than developed markets. Q: Why are Indian stocks more volatile than the U.S. market? A: Because it is dominated by foreign investors, both in ownership and trading. So it will remain volatile, but the underlying earnings growth is less volatile. — AP

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More older Americans hold student debt By Kimberly Hefling Rosemary Anderson could be 81 by the time she pays off her student loans. After struggling with divorce, health problems and an underwater home mortgage, the 57-year-old anticipates there could come a day when her Social Security benefits will be docked to make the payments. Like Anderson, a growing percentage of aging Americans struggle to pay back their student debt. Tens of thousands of them even see their Social Security benefits garnished when they cannot do so. Among Americans ages 65 to 74, 4 percent in 2010 carried federal student loan debt, up from 1 percent six years earlier, according to a Government Accountability Office report released in September at a

Senate Aging Committee hearing. For all older adults, the collective amount of student loan debt grew from about $2.8 billion in 2005 to about $18.2 billion last year. (Student debt for all ages totals $1 trillion.) “Some may think of student loan debt as just a young person’s problem,” said Sen. Bill Nelson, D-Fla., chairman of the committee. “Well, as it turns out, that’s increasingly not the case.” Anderson, of Watsonville, Calif., amassed $64,000 in student loans, beginning in her 30s, as she worked toward her undergraduate and graduate degrees. She said she has worked multiple jobs — she’s now at the University of California, Santa Cruz — to pay off credit card debt, and has renegotiat-

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ed terms of her home mortgage. But she hasn’t been able to make a student loan payment in eight years. The amount she now owes has ballooned to $126,000. “I find it very ironic that I incurred this debt as a way to improve my life, and yet I sit here today [testifying] because the debt has become my undoing,” Anderson testified. Despite not making payments, she’s managed to keep the education debt in good standing by getting permission to defer the payments even as the amount she owes has grown, she said.

Some guaranteed kids’ loans Ed Boltz, a bankruptcy attorney in Durham, N.C., who is president of the National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys, said in an interview that many of the seniors he sees with student loan debt are also struggling with challenges such a medical problems, job loss or divorce. Some, he said, went back to school with hopes of making a higher salary, and that didn’t pan out. Or, the children they helped fund to attend school are not in a position to help the parent in return. “They are stuck with these debts, and they can’t try again,” Boltz said. “There’s no second act for them.” The GAO found that about 80 percent of student loan debt held by seniors was for their own education, while the rest was taken out for their children or other dependents. It said federal data showed that seniors were more likely to default on loans for themselves compared with those they took out for their children. It’s unclear when the loans originated, although the GAO noted that the time period to pay back such debt can range from a

decade to 25 years. That means some older Americans could have taken out the loans when they were younger and they’ve accumulated with interest, or got them later in life — such as workers who enrolled in college after a layoff in the midst of the economic downturn.

1 in 4 in default The GAO found that about a quarter of loans held by seniors ages 65 to 74 were in default. The number of older Americans who had their Social Security benefits offset to pay student loan debt increased fivefold, from 31,000 to 155,000, from 2002 to 2013. Sandy Baum, a senior fellow at the Urban Institute, said seniors having their Social Security docked likely don’t have much discretionary income, and Congress should consider taking away this option. There’s a limit to how much Social Security can be docked, but some seniors are left with benefits below the poverty level, the GAO said. “It’s not an issue that affects large numbers of people,” Baum said. “It’s a very big issue for people who are affected by it.” In addition to docking Social Security, the government can use a variety of tools to recoup student loans, such as docking wages or taking tax refund dollars. Typically, student loans can’t be discharged in bankruptcy. “As the baby boomers continue to move into retirement, the number of older Americans with defaulted loans will only continue to increase,” the GAO said. “This creates the potential for an unpleasant surprise for some, as their benefits are offset and they face the possibility of a less secure retirement.” — AP

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Burial and memorial benefits for veterans

tion of the veteran’s service. National cemetery burial benefits are also available to spouses and dependents of veterans. If your dad is cremated, his remains will be buried or inurned in the same manner as casketed remains. Funeral or cremation arrangements and costs are not, however, taken care of by the VA. They are the responsibility of the veteran’s family.

National and state cemetery benefits

Private cemetery benefits

If your dad is eligible, and wants to be buried in one of the 131 national or 93 state VA cemeteries (see www.cem.va.gov/

If your dad is going to be buried in a private cemetery, the benefits available include a free government headstone or marker, or a medal-

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or private cemetery is a military funeral honors ceremony. This includes folding and presenting the U.S. burial flag to the veteran’s survivors, and the playing of Taps, performed by two or more uniformed military members. The funeral provider you choose will be able to assist you with all VA burial requests. Depending on what you want, certain forms may need to be completed, which it is always

Military funeral honors Another popular benefit available to all eligible veterans buried in either a national

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See BURIAL BENEFITS, page 44

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from the military was under conditions other than dishonorable — which will need to be verified. To do this, you’ll need a copy of your dad’s DD Form 214 “Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty,” which you can request online at archives.gov/veterans. Here’s a rundown of some of the different benefits that are available to veterans who die a non-service related death.

lion that can be affixed to an existing privately purchased headstone or marker; a burial flag; and a Presidential memorial certificate. Funeral or cremation arrangements and costs are again the responsibility of the family, and there are no benefits offered to spouses and dependents who are buried in private cemeteries.

Dear Savvy Senior: cem/cems/listcem.asp for a list), the VA Does the Veterans Administration pro- benefits provided at no cost to the family invide any special funeral services or ben- clude a gravesite; opening and closing of the efits to older veterans? My grave; perpetual gravesite father is a 90-year-old World care; a government headstone War II veteran with late or marker; a United States burstage Alzheimer’s, so I’m ial flag that can be used to looking into funeral options drape the casket or accompany and would like to know what the urn (after the funeral servthe VA may provide. ice, the flag is given to the next— Planning Ahead of-kin as a keepsake); and a Dear Planning: Presidential memorial certifiYes, the Veterans Adminiscate, which is an engraved tration offers a number of burpaper certificate signed by the ial and memorial benefits to SAVVY SENIOR current President expressing veterans if their discharge By Jim Miller the country’s grateful recogni-

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From page 43 better to have done in advance. For a complete rundown of burial and memorial benefits, eligibility details and required forms, visit www.cem.va.gov or call 1-800-827-1000.

Burial allowances In addition to the many burial benefits, some veterans may also qualify for a $734 burial and funeral expense allowance (if hospitalized by VA at time of death), or $300 (if not hospitalized by VA at time of death), and a $734 plot-interment allowance to those who choose to be buried

in a private cemetery. To find out if your dad is eligible, see benefits.va.gov/benefits/factsheets/burials/burial.pdf. To apply for burial allowances, you’ll need to fill out VA Form 21-530 “Application for Burial Benefits.” You need to attach a copy of your dad’s discharge document (DD 214 or equivalent), death certificate, funeral and burial bills. They should show that you have paid them in full. You may download the form at va.gov/vaforms. 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.

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Burial benefits

N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 4 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Volunteers work to clean up Eastlawn Cemetery on the grounds of St. Elizabeths Hospital in Southeast Washington last month. More than 2,000 veterans were interred at the cemetery from approximately 1867 to 1973, but it has fallen into disrepair. The U.S. Coast Guard has organized several cleanup days at the cemetery and more are planned. A veterans remembrance event will take place at the cemetery on Wednesday, Nov. 12 from 11 a.m. to noon. The event will include Civil War reenactors, the St. Elizabeths Hospital Campus Headquarters Chorus, the U.S. Coast Guard Pipe Band Honor Guard and speakers. The cemetery is located behind Johnson Middle School on 12th Pl., SE in Washington, D.C. To RSVP, go to http://tinyurl.com/qhx4cn8 or call (202) 372-2272.

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Travel Leisure &

Visit sites related to Theodore, Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt, from Georgia to New York to the Dakotas. See story on page 48.

Creepy but captivating Carlsbad Caverns

NPS PHOTO BY PETER JONES

stone resembling molasses — plus 45,000year-old bat guano. It’s is a geological wonderland for speleologists, spelunkers and amateurs, with 120 caves in a park of over 46,766 acres. Will Rogers called it the “Grand Canyon with a roof on it.” Its spooky allure attracted the filmmakers who produced the 1959 flick Journey to the Center of the Earth, based on the Jules Verne novel and filmed in the caverns with actors Pat Boone, James Mason and Diane Baker. Carlsbad’s 400,000 visitors per year start in the headquarters at 4,400 feet and descend. There are eight tours, with the lowest dropping to what’s called the Lower Cavern, 800 feet below the entrance, the deepest part of the cavern open to the public. Of the park’s 120 known caves, with 185 “cave miles” surveyed, Carlsbad Cavern is the most accessible and famous. Visitors can explore about 10 percent of the underground acreage. (For comparison, Kentucky’s Mammoth Cave system is the longest known cave system in the world. Around 400 cave miles have been mapped.) If New Mexico is the “Land of Enchantment,” as its license plates tout, Carlsbad enchants underground.

As visitors descend to Carlsbad Cavern’s 25-story Big Room, largest underground room in the world, they pass several spectacular speleotherms (mineral deposits), including this one, named the Temple of the Sun.

Ancient origins Scientists say the caves of Carlsbad are actually a fossil reef laid down by an inland sea 250 to 280 million years ago. They believe Paleo-Indians inhabited the Guadalupe Mountains 12,000 to 14,000 years ago. More recently, Spanish explorers, then U.S. Army surveyors and cattle ranchers combed the area. Around the turn of the 20th century, locals extracted bat guano from the cave and hauled it up 170 feet in buckets for shipment to southern California to fertilize citrus groves. In 1923, the federal government made Carlsbad Caverns a national monu-

NPS PHOTO BY PETER JONES

By Glenda C. Booth Drip...drip...drip... The slow-motion drip is mesmerizing. For millions of years, dripping, seeping, condensing, flowing, and ponding water has performed nature’s artistry in the depths of southeastern New Mexico’s Carlsbad Caverns National Park under the Guadalupe Mountains. It’s a persistent and powerful force — though it takes between 17 and 34 years for one drop of water to reach the bottom. Carlsbad Caverns are a subterranean maze where water steadily shapes otherworldly cave formations — bearing names like icicles, icebergs, draperies, witch’s finger and lion’s tail (and which look uncannily like their monikers). Carlsbad has all of those, plus frozen waterfalls, strands of pearls, organ pipes, cookies, sponges, totem poles, miniature castles, bulging veins and more. Carlsbad Caverns National Park is a netherworld of ghostly stalactites and stalagmites; glistening, glazed formations; “puffy” popcorn; soda straws; and flow-

A park ranger discusses the geological features of Devil’s Den in Carlsbad Cavern. Visitors may take either an elevator or this 1.25-mile paved trail to descend 800 feet to the Big Room, where many of the cavern’s largest formations are found.

ment, and in 1930 Congress designated it a national park. It became a World Heritage Site in 1995. It was discovered quite by accident. In 1898, a local ranchhand, Jim White, was repairing a fence and saw what he thought was smoke rising from a gaping hole in the earth. He held a lantern over the opening, tossed in a rock and did not hear a sound. He had happened upon a vast underworld. Today, visitors can see the ladder he used to probe the depths. The smoke? It was a cloud of bats swirling out of the caverns to feast on nighttime insects. Today, at least seven bat species use the caves, most as a nursery for bat pups, one per mom. The most common bats are Brazilian or Mexican free-tailed bats that fly from Mexico to summer in the cave, congregate and have their young. Free-tailed bats have been in Carlsbad for thousands of years. They produce so many droppings they’ve been called “guano bats.” Today, 250,000-400,000 bats sleep during the day in the caverns, and spiral up at sunset like a whirlwind to catch mosquitoes, flies, ants, beetles and other insects. Freetails, which weigh only half an ounce, consume at least half their weight in insects every night.

From May to October, rangers hold educational programs about the bats 30 to 60 minutes before sunset, when bats depart, and on some mornings as early as 5 a.m., when the bats return. A final bat note: Some people fear and malign bats. But they are an important component of our natural environment. They do not attack people, and perform valuable ecological services, such as eating insects and pollinating flowers.

Touring the caverns Visitors can take several guided and unguided tours of the caverns, and rent audio guides. Carlsbad Cavern, Spider Cave, and Slaughter Canyon Cave are open to the public, and nine caves are open for skilled, recreational cavers with the proper equipment. A favorite destination in the Carlsbad Cavern is the largest underground room in the world, the 8.2-acre Big Room, 25 stories high. The self-guided walking tour to the Big Room descends on a 1.25-mile paved trail, mostly level but with a few steep slants — a descent equivalent to 79 stories. You can also reach the Big Room by elevator, recommended for people not in good physical condition. But then you’ll miss the sights walkers get on the way See CARLSBAD CAVERNS, page 47

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WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 4

Carlsbad Caverns From page 46 down, including Bottomless Pit, Rock of Ages, the Lion’s Tail, the six-stories-tall Hall of Giants, and the Giant Dome, a 62foot high stalagmite. Allow at least an hour and a half to absorb the enormity of it all. The self-guided tour starting at the natural entrance drops about 800 feet in one mile, winds around in switchbacks, and offers good views of Devil’s Spring, Whale’s Mouth and Iceberg Rock. In the mouth of the cave, you might see nesting or roosting cave swallows, and you can study red and black thousand-year-old pictographs high up on the walls. The guided King’s Palace tour shows off ornate cave rooms, including giant draperies formed by water trickling from a slanted ceiling. Park rangers briefly turn off the lights to show the natural darkness of the caves. The caverns may seem bare of life, but keen observers could spot a horsehair worm, water fleas, sow bugs and pillbugs, for example. Ask a ranger. Carlsbad is the only cave in the park with paved walkways, handrails and lights. Enthusiastic cavers might also want to explore ranger-led tours in Spider Cave and Slaughter Canyon Cave.

Protecting the fragile formations Caves have very delicate environments, posing special challenges to managers and visitors alike. To preserve the caves’ pristine and fragile environment, park staff use Formula 409 cleanser to decontaminate shoes if a visitor’s been in a cave in the last seven years. That’s because people can inadvertently bring in harmful spores, fungi and other materials. A major concern today is a bat disease called white nose syndrome, a fungus spread among bats that has killed millions

of them — in fact, 80 percent of the bats in the northeastern U.S. The disease is spreading throughout North America, though it had not been found in New Mexico or Carlsbad as of August. Then there’s lint from visitors’ clothing — so much that volunteers with tweezers and special tools pick over 32 pounds of lint off the formations each year. Lint changes the ecology. To confine lint in the underground gift shop, T-shirts are kept in plastic bags. Lights installed to accommodate the public change what otherwise would be a dark habitat. Lights and the heat they generate encourage photosynthesis and algae growth, so staffers must bleach some formations monthly to remove the algae. In addition, camera lights and high frequency sounds from digital devices can disturb bats. Oil from human skin can discolor rocks. “Caves have unique and rare qualities,” said Chuck Burton, Carlsbad’s acting superintendent. “The formations that are so spectacular and awe-inspiring have taken millions of years to create. Caves are very special environments, ecosystems that people do not know much about.” Caves served as shelter to our Paleo-Indian ancestors. They are still home to microorganisms and troglobites, animals that live in the dark. And caves preserve the geologic and climactic record of an area. David VonSeggern, an amateur caver, commented, “Caves often contain remains and relics of early mankind and of now extinct wildlife. They are the last frontier for exploration on Earth. Many deep and difficult passages remain to be explored, while a vast, unknown realm of caves has not even been discovered.” Then there’s medicine: The National Park Service website says, “Studying [caves] has already revealed a food chain that begins with minerals in the rock, and has shown

that some of the organisms may help serious human diseases, such as cancer.”

If you go Park officials recommend reservations for guided tours by visiting www.Recreation.gov or calling 1-877-444-6777. Wear sturdy footwear and inquire about physical requirements. Some trails are strenuous; some are not. Underground, it’s a consistent 56 degrees Fahrenheit year round. Aboveground, summer temperatures can reach 100 degrees Fahrenheit; winter highs are in the 50s and 60s, with lows in the 20s and 30s. The visitor center is at 727 Carlsbad Caverns Highway, Carlsbad, New Mexico 88220. The only entrance is from New Mexico Highway 7, 20 miles southwest of Carlsbad by way of U.S. 62/180. F o r l o d g i n g , t r y B e s t We s t e r n ,

http://bestwesternnewmexico.com/hotels /best-western-stevens-inn, (575) 887-2851, $162 a night, or Days Inn http://daysinncarlsbadnm.com, (575) 887-7800, $189 a night. For accommodations with a little more personality, check out the Trinity Hotel, built in 1892 as a bank, www.thetrinityhotel.com, (575) 234-9891, $239 a night. No airport is very close. Albuquerque is 304 miles from Carlsbad, while Roswell, N.M. is 103 miles away. In Texas: Lubbock, 206 miles; Midland, 194 miles; El Paso, 151 miles. Carlsbad is served by Greyhound bus. More information is available from: National Park Service, www.nps.gov/ cave, (575) 785-2232 Carlsbad Caverns-Guadalupe Mountains Association, www.ccgma.org, (575) 785-2484 Chamber of Commerce, www.carlsbadchamber.com, (575) 887-6516

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N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 4 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Fans can follow trail of famous Roosevelts By Beth J. Harpz Ken Burns’ recent documentary about the Roosevelts — presidents Theodore and Franklin, and Franklin’s wife Eleanor — is bound to stir interest in some of the places connected to them. Here’s a look at some major Roosevelt sites, including birthplaces, family homes, vacation retreats, and national parks and monuments across the U.S.

Theodore Roosevelt bir thplace: Theodore Roosevelt lived at 28 E. 20th St. in Manhattan from his birth in 1858 until he was 14. The building was demolished in 1916, but later reconstructed and decorated with original and period furnishings.

Fall into the

1880s, hunting bison and working on a ranch. See www.nps.gov/thro. Mount Rushmore: Theodore Roosevelt is one of four presidents whose faces adorn Mount Rushmore in South Dakota, along with George Washington, Thomas Jefferson and Abraham Lincoln. Roosevelt’s legacy includes his leadership in conservation, creating national parks and wilderness areas, and preserving antiquities. He was also seen as a fighter for

the common man, taking on corporate monopolies. See www.nps.gov/moru. Sagamore Hill: This was Teddy Roosevelt’s summer White House, where he vacationed with his family. The home, on the North Shore of Long Island near Oyster Bay, New York, is closed for renovation, though a nearby museum and grounds are open. See www.nps.gov/sahi. See ROOSEVELTS, page 49

NPS PHOTO BY PETER JONES

Theodore Roosevelt sites

A free half-hour tour tells the story of Roosevelt’s family: He was descended from Dutch traders who made their fortune in New York (Roosevelt means rose field in Dutch, and is pronounced “rose-velt”), and he was Eleanor Roosevelt’s uncle and Franklin Roosevelt’s distant cousin. A sickly child, Teddy became fit using a gym on a terrace off his bedroom here. Museum artifacts include a shirt with a bullet hole. Roosevelt was shot on the campaign trail in Milwaukee but finished his speech before getting medical care. See www.nps.gov/thrb. Theodore Roosevelt National Park: This park, in the badlands of western North Dakota, commemorates Theodore Roosevelt’s sojourn to the region in the

Sagamore Hill, on the North Shore of Long Island, N.Y., was Theodore Roosevelt’s home from 1885 until his death in 1919. It was used as the “Summer White House” while he was president. Roosevelt is pictured with his children.

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Roosevelts From page 48

Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt sites Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum: Through exhibits on Pearl Harbor, “Fireside Chats,” the New Deal, and many other defining aspects of FDR’s presidency, this site in Hyde Park, New York, brings to life his leadership during the Great Depression and World War II. Visitors will also learn about FDR’s personal life — from his domineering mother, to his struggles with polio, to his relationships with Eleanor and other women. Nearby National Park Service sites include Springwood, where FDR was born and lived; Val-Kill, Eleanor’s retreat; and Top Cottage, FDR’s private digs. See www.nps.gov/hofr and www.fdrlibrary.marist.edu. Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial: This evocative, unusual memorial in Washington, D.C., consists of a series of outdoor galleries with waterfalls, sculptures and famous FDR quotes, such as “The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.” Sculptures show FDR with his dog, and FDR in a wheelchair. See www.nps.gov/nr/travel/presidents/fdr_memorial.html. Warm Springs: Warm Springs, Ga., was known for therapeutic swimming pools

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WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 4

that offered relief from polio. FDR, who was partly paralyzed from polio, frequently visited, regaining some of his strength here and eventually building a home known as the Little White House. He died here in 1945 during his fourth presidential term. Visitors can see the home, pools and other sites related to polio history. Visit http://www.nps.gov/nr/travel/presidents/roosevelts_little_white_house.html. Campobello: FDR had a 34-room summer home off the coast of Maine on Campobello Island, in New Brunswick, Canada. This is where his mother’s family vacationed, and it was here that he first experienced symptoms of polio in 1921. The home is open for tours from late May through Columbus Day (Oct. 13). The area’s rocky shores, trails and driving roads can be visited year-round. A bridge connects Lubec, Maine, with Campobello, but you must have a passport to cross. See www.nps.gov/roca/index.htm. Four Freedoms Park: This park, located on Roosevelt Island in New York City’s East River, memorializes FDR’s “Four Freedoms” speech, made in 1941. In it, he extols freedom of speech, freedom of worship, freedom from want and freedom from fear. An excerpt is engraved on a granite monument near a bust of FDR. The park, designed by architect Louis I.

Kahn, is considered a sleek Modernist masterpiece. Its tree-lined plazas, steps and other structures offer vantage points full of symmetry and angled views for seeing the Manhattan skyline. Reachable via subway or the Roosevelt Island tram. See www.fdrfourfreedomspark.org. Roosevelt House Public Policy Institute at Hunter College: FDR and Eleanor received this six-story Manhattan town house as a gift in 1908 from FDR’s mother Sara Delano Roosevelt. A single front door opened into two units — one for the mother-in-law and one for FDR and his family. They lived here for decades; this is

where FDR recovered from polio, ran for governor and president, and planned the New Deal. It’s now owned and used by Hunter College for lectures and events, and can be toured Saturdays, at 10 a.m., noon and 2 p.m. Address: 47-49 E. 65th St., New York City. See www.roosevelthouse.hunter.cuny.edu/tours. Although the Burns documentary won’t screen on PBS again until spring, segments of the 14-hour show are available online at www.pbs.org/kenburns/the-roosevelts/watch -videos. The series is also available on DVD. — AP

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Dec. 4

HISTORIC ESTATES TOUR

Montgomery County Senior Outdoor Adventures in Recreation (SOAR) presents a guided, narrated walking tour of the Oatlands and Morven, two fine 19th Century historic estates on Thursday, Dec. 4. Enjoy the added attraction of the beautiful and acclaimed Christmas decor in the Oatlands mansion. See hunting and carriage museums on the estate of Morven Park and tour the newly renovated Morven Park mansion. Lunch is on own, and there will be time to shop at the Leesburg Premium Outlet food court. The trip cost is $59 for residents and $74 for non-residents. The busses will depart from Olney Manor Park, 16601 Georgia Ave., Olney, Md. at 8 a.m. and return at 6 p.m. For more information, call (240) 777-4926.

Nov. 30

CASINO DAYTRIP

Arlington County presents a daytrip to visit the Dover Downs Hotel & Casino in Dover, Del. on Sunday, Nov. 30. Lunch is on own, and the trip may require a lot of walking. The bus leaves Lubber Run Community Center, 300 N. Park Dr., Arlington, Va. at 8:30 a.m., and returns at 6:30 p.m. The trip cost is $10 for residents and $14 for non-residents. To register, visit http://parks.arlingtonva.us/programs/adults-55/seniors-travel/ or call (703) 228-4744, TTY: 711.

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Schools From page 1 side through an open, odoriferous trench. In elementary school, he was first in his class and won a scholarship to a middle and high school in Kabul, about 145 miles

away, where he could board. Continuing his stellar educational record there, he was awarded a college scholarship to the American University in Beirut, where he majored in psychology. But in order to take classes there, he had to learn his fourth language — Eng-

N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 4 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

lish. Safi was already fluent in two Afghan languages (the country has no single national language) and Arabic. He failed the English entrance exam twice before he finally made it in. It was an eye-opening experience for Safi to live in a large, modern city. For example, it was in Beirut that he saw television for the first time, calling it “miraculous and unbelievable.” He then received another scholarship, to attend graduate school at the teacher’s college at Columbia University, where he earned his PhD and met Anna. She remembers the day: “There was this really geeky guy with dark hair and dark horn rimmed glasses,” Anna said. “They say there is love at first sight. That is not [quite] what happened. I looked at Qayum and thought, ‘This person is going to be in my life for the rest of my life somehow,’” she recalled. But the two of them had to surmount many differences. Blonde, Rhode Islandborn Anna was a Catholic, nine years

younger than Qayum, a Muslim. They got married, fittingly, in a building owned by the United Nations that was across the street from the U.N. headquarters in New York City. “I am glad we did not get married in a place where one religion was considered superior to others,” Safi said. “I have always been in favor of faiths that encourage belief in one God and focus on the ultimate objective, rather than on the different ways of achieving it,” he wrote in his memoir, One Life: An Afghan Remembers, published in 2012. Safi would hole himself up in his study to write the book, not divulging to his family that he was pouring out his autobiography until the book was finished.

Stranger in a strange land Safi has not returned to Afghanistan in over 30 years. Instead, he visits relatives who cross the border to Pakistan to meet See SCHOOLS, page 51

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Nov. 8

FALL FESTIVAL

Village at Rockville is holding its annual Fall Festival on Saturday, Nov. 8 from 9:30 to 2 p.m. The event features Christmas items, jewelry, baked goods, stamps, books, and much more. There will be lunch from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The cost is $10 or $5 for lighter fair. All proceeds benefit the residents. Village at Rockville is located at 9701 Veirs Dr., Rockville, Md. For more information, visit http://thevillageatrockville.org or call (301) 424-9560.

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You may qualify for assistance in paying your home phone bill. Discounts for basic telephone service are available to eligible District of Columbia low-income residents.

Verizon Washington, D.C. Lifeline Plans: Verizon Washington, D.C.’s Lifeline service, known as “Economy II,” offers reduced rates on Verizon’s monthly telephone bill and one-time discounts on the cost of installing phone service. Additionally, toll blocking is available to Economy II customers at no charge. Economy II Service*: $3.00 per month for unlimited local calling. Value-added services are not included (e.g., Call Waiting, Caller ID). No connection charges apply. Also, customers will not be charged for the federal subscriber line charge. Economy II customers who are 65 years of age or older can have this service at a further reduced rate of $1.00 per month. • Full terms and rates for these services, including terms of eligibility, are as set forth in federal and in Verizon’s tariffs on file with the Public Service Commission of the District of Columbia. All rates, terms and conditions included in this notice are subject to change and are current at the time of printing. Contact Washington, DC Lifeline Program at 1-800-253-0846 to apply To learn more about the Lifeline program, visit www.lifelinesupport.org. Economy II is a Lifeline supported service. Lifeline is a government assistance program. Only eligible consumers may enroll. You may qualify for Lifeline service if you can show proof that you participate in certain government assistance programs or your annual income (gross and from all sources) is at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Guideline. If you qualify based on income, you will be required to provide income verification. Proof of participation in a government assistance program requires your current or prior year’s statement of benefits from a qualifying state or federal program; a notice letter or other official document indicating your participation in such a program; and/or another program participation document (for example, benefit card). Proof of income requires your prior year’s state or federal tax return; current income statement from an employer or paycheck stub; a statement of Social Security, Veterans Administration, retirement, pension, or Unemployment or Workmen’s Compensation benefits; a federal notice letter of participation in General Assistance; a divorce decree; a child support award; and/or another official document containing income information. At least three months of data is necessary when showing proof of income. In addition, the Lifeline program is limited to one discount per household, consisting of either wireline or wireless service. You are required to certify and agree that no other member of the household is receiving Lifeline service from Verizon or another communications provider. Lifeline service is a non-transferable benefit. Lifeline customers may not subscribe to certain other services, including other local telephone service. Consumers who willfully make false statements in order to obtain the Lifeline benefit can be punished by fine or imprisonment, or can be barred from the program.

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WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 4

Schools From page 50 him there. He said it could be dangerous for an educated person like himself to return. While in graduate school, the Soviets invaded Afghanistan, and the communists revoked his scholarship. Religious extremists in the Taliban, and now Islamic State, would also not look at him favorably, he said. As Safi explained in his memoir, “With Afghanistan’s once-stable political situation rocked by violent turmoil, I had no desire to go back home again. Caught between the extremes of communism and religious fundamentalism, my country had become a narrow, stifling space, where I would have found it difficult to breathe had I returned.” But in the middle of his graduate studies, in 1979, Safi almost had to return. “Talk about being toast,” Anna recalled. “The State Dept. basically said you either have to go back, or prove you have the finances to stay here.” Instead, Safi found a position in Kuwait, where he established the Center for Evaluation and Measurement at Kuwait University. Anna found teaching work there as well. Their three children were born in Kuwait. Six years after moving there, the family was finally able to return to the U.S. But in Rhode Island, where they settled, Safi felt his blended family did not blend in. “Our immediate neighbors on either side were Irish Americans, who seemed strangely uncomfortable about having a foreigner like me living in their midst,” he said. “Some claimed I was black; others decided I was an Arab from the Middle East.” Despite the fact that both of their neigh-

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bors had children the same age as the Safis’, the neighbors discouraged their kids from playing with the foreigners.

At home in Virginia When Safi got a job in Northern Virginia in 1998, he found the Washingtonarea’s diversity much more comfortable. “A great many people living here have mother tongues other than English and speak English with a distinctive accent. I feel so much more at home among them,” he said. Safi works as a translator for the defense company Leidos (until recently called Science Applications International Corporation — SAIC). His children are now grown. His daughter and grandson live in Florida, while one son remained in Rhode Island, and the other recently moved from Washington, D.C. to Boston with his wife and son. Now that he is nearing retirement, Safi is looking forward to directing Afghan

Rural Schools full time — and possibly visiting his home country for the first time in decades. He looked around his spacious brick colonial house in a development that isn’t yet a decade old, carved out of the Virginia countryside near the Loudoun-Fairfax County line. It is so different from the childhood home that he shared with farm

animals over 60 years ago. “You look back and you see you’re not getting younger, so you want to help those who are less fortunate,” he said. “The time is now for me to make a difference.” For more information about, or to make a contribution to, Afghan Rural Schools, see www.afghanruralschools.org, call (703) 542-2724, or email safiqayum@yahoo.com.

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N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 4 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Book last-minute vacation rentals online With all the travel writers urging “rent early,” you might think that “last-minute vacation rentals” is an oxymoron. Fortunately, it isn’t. A newly launched British website, snaptrip.com, focuses on last-minute vacation rentals, while the industry giants HomeAway and Flipkey allow you to locate various special deals, including lastminute offers.

stay prices rather than prices per night. The top menu also includes a “top deals” option that returns, as you might guess, the best available deals for your dates throughout the UK, listed in order of percentage discounts. I tested the site for one-week stays at the industry standard Saturday to Saturday periods. For a stay starting one week after the day I tested, the site returned 33 properties with Snaptrip discounts ranging from 6 perNewcomer Snaptrip pro- TRAVEL TIPS cent to 29 percent, with several vides a friendly search sys- By Ed Perkins above 15 percent. I got about tem. Enter a destination — either a town or the same results for rentals starting two a county — plus dates you want, length of weeks after my test. stay, and number of beds, and the site posts However, three weeks ahead, discount available results. The price displays ac- percentages dropped sharply, and starting count for your length of stay; they post full- four weeks down the road, only four deals

BELTSVILLE (301) 572-550 11729 Beltsville Drive BETHESDA (301) 656-2522 6917 Arlington Road BETHESDA (301) 986-9144 7809 Wisconsin Avenue BOWIE (301) 262-8400 6920 Laurel-Bowie Road CLINTON (301) 868-4055 8859 Branch Avenue COLLEGE PARK (301) 277-6114 7300 Washington-Baltimore Boulevard DISTRICT HEIGHTS (301) 736-3994 5870 Silver Hill Road, Silver Hill Plaza GAITHERSBURG (301) 948-3250 546 North Frederick Avenue GAITHERSBURG (301) 948-6886 19100 Montgomery Village Avenue GREENBELT (301) 441-8811 7607 Greenbelt Road KENSINGTON (301) 962-8092 3715 University Boulevard West

were available. Snaptrip also displays a map with deal locations highlighted. I focus on Snaptrip because, to my knowledge, it’s the first website devoted specifically to last-minute vacation rentals, and the pricing pattern provides some insight as to how the market operates. All in all, Snaptrip is a well-planned and user-friendly website, making last-minute searches easy within its relatively small universe of rentals in the UK and Ireland. But I wonder how scalable it would be for really large worldwide databases. Given the typically high cost of lastminute airfares, a last-minute rental in the UK is a very limited market for North Americans. So Snaptrip is more interesting as a template for potential U.S.-based search systems than as a resource for typical North Americans. Presumably, interest in last-minute

LANGLEY PARK (301) 434-3121 7939 New Hampshire Avenue LAUREL (301) 776-5404 15100 Baltimore Avenue NORTH POTOMAC (301) 251-0024 9920 Key West Avenue OLNEY (301) 774-6155 3110 Olney Sandy Spring Road ROCKVILLE (301) 299-3717 7955 Tuckerman Lane SILVER SPRING (301) 598-6617 2271 Bel Pre Road SILVER SPRING (301) 588-6261 1290 East-West Highway SILVER SPRING (301) 942-2300 12359 Georgia Avenue WHEATON (301) 871-7511 13729 Connecticut Avenue

rentals concentrates on destinations within comfortable driving distance rather than those that require you to buy airline tickets. The giant rental websites do post some lastminute deals, but they’re generally not as easily accessible as those through Snaptrip.

HomeAway The industry’s giant, HomeAway, continues to be puzzling. Altogether, it lists more than a million properties worldwide, well ahead of Flipkey’s 300,000. Although HomeAway seems to be consolidating some of its many subsidiaries, it still operates four separate English-language systems: Homeaway.com, VRBO.com and VacationRentals.com that cater to North American markets, plus UK-based ownersdirect.co.uk. For some reason, Ownersdirect seems to have the friendliest last-minute search system. Log on, select the “Find a Deal” button, enter country and region, and you get a list of deals. Examples include percent discounts, fixed “reduced” rates, and extras such as a rental car. This site has limited coverage of North America, however, with only 13 properties in the United States, of which 12 are in the Orlando area, and none in Canada or Mexico. Although the main HomeAway site doesn’t post specific “last-minute” deals, it does allow you to filter your search by prioritizing “special offers.” VacationRentals tags some listings as special deals, although its former lastminute blog seems to have been discontinued. VRBO does not screen by special deals — or at least I couldn’t find it.

Flipkey Flipkey’s primary property display page includes a “deal” button that filters results according to special offers. The display does not show the exact nature of the special offer, however, only that it’s a deal. In addition to varying deal display, the big online sites encourage you to sign up for periodic bulletins that feature any specials that might arise. Clearly, that’s a good idea if you’re at all interested in spur-ofthe-moment vacation rentals. And remember: regardless of the online posting prices, you can always email or phone a property owner to ask about any special promotions that might be available for the dates you want to visit. Owners are free to negotiate as they choose. Send e-mail to Ed Perkins at eperkins@mind.net. © 2014 Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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Say you saw it in the Beacon

Style

Arts &

Degas’ “Little Dancer” comes to life in a new musical. See story on page 56.

A fresh take on Fiddler for its 50th year and having a face put on this show! I think that’s what it did for the five of us who were there performing.” The musical about family and tradition and a struggle against prejudice does things like this — one of the reasons it has endured, triumphed, really, for five decades. More than a collection of catchy songs and colorful characters and scenes, Fiddler speaks to all of us in different ways. Tevye is a poor Jewish milkman living in 1905 Russia. With the government forcing Jews from the land, Tevye finds his devotion to God strained. His devotion to tradition is challenged by his independent, determined daughters. They wish to marry for love, serving as their own matchmakers. With music by Jerry Bock, lyrics by Sheldon Harnick and book by Joseph Stein, the show boasts a triumphant score with songs that have transcended the musical and become part of the culture: “If I Were a Rich Man;” “Sunrise, Sunset;” “Matchmaker, Matchmaker” and “Tradition.” A hit in 1964, Fiddler swept the Tonys and became one of Broadway’s longest-running musicals.

PHOTO COURTESY OF ARENA STAGE

By Michaela Toscano Ann Arvia starts to talk. But the words quickly sputter and die somewhere in her throat, choked by vivid emotion that unexpectedly overtakes her. “It was amazing…” she begins again. Then, more silence before a few quick breaths help her regain composure. “I’m trying not to burst into tears as I talk about it,” she finally says, her voice thick with feeling. The words then tumble out in short bursts. “These people were phenomenal. There was a gentleman at the table next to us who was 101 years old. Sharp as a tack. His name was Morris. You’d never know he was 101. He was a survivor of seven camps. I don’t know how that’s even possible.” Ann Arvia is an actor and singer, a veteran of the New York stage. And she is in Washington to star as Golde in Arena Stage’s 50th anniversary revival of Fiddler on the Roof. The day before we talk, shortly before the show opened, she and some of her cast mates attended a monthly luncheon held by 160 Holocaust survivors, their families and caregivers. They were there to sing a few songs from the show. But they took something vital back to the theater with them. “The spirit and joy these people brought to the room,” she continues, the words beginning to flow again, her voice animated. “Talk about the human spirit in one room,

Ann Arvia, who plays Golde in Arena Stage’s production of Fiddler on the Roof, and Jonathan Hadary, who portrays Tevye, pose with the actresses who play their five daughters. The musical celebrates its 50th anniversary this year.

times in her early years onstage, and after decades away from the show, returns to it as the mother in her Arena Stage debut. “It feels oddly fresh, given how well I know the material,” she says. Reflecting a moment, she says that it

may not be so odd, after all. That’s because it is fresh to director Molly Smith, Arena’s leader. “Molly is a Fiddler virgin. She has never See FIDDLER, page 54

A tradition for Arvia, too For Arvia, Fiddler on the Roof is a touchstone in her life. Her first professional gig was playing one of the five daughters at the Candlelight Dinner Playhouse near her native Chicago. That job lasted 18 months, a lucky break for a newcomer. She played a daughter in Fiddler three

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Fiddler

honor the real demands of the story that’s being told.”

From page 53 seen a production. She has never seen the movie, and she’s never directed it. “Because she’s coming at it with such a fresh perspective, it kind of dribbles down through the company that way. You can’t help looking at it with fresh eyes because she’s seeing it, and asking questions of it, in a completely fresh way,” she explains. Fresh is always good, of course. But what about, you know, the whole tradition thing? “Our creative team went to an Orthodox Jewish wedding,” she responds. “They came back and changed some of the choreography and staging for our wedding sequence because they wanted to incorporate some of what they had seen. “We’re trying to do as much as we can to

Universal themes A lively mix of Italian and Polish ancestry, Arvia is not Jewish. But Jewish life is part of her roots. For three years while in college, she served as a cantor in a Reform synagogue. She was embraced by the Jewish congregants, and the experience has stayed with her. “At the heart of it, this is a very small story about a family trying to deal with change, and dealing with their way of life being torn apart. And whether you live in Ukraine right now, or in Israel right now, or if you live in the United States and are just trying to navigate having a teenage daughter, there is a universality to the show that defies just one era,” Arvia said. The current production, played in the

N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 4 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

round at Arena’s Fichandler Stage, creates a more intimate experience, she believes. “There’s no hiding place!” she exclaims, laughing. “It requires a tremendous amount of concentration, which helps the storytelling. It’s very truthful, very real and, sadly, incredibly relevant with what’s going on in the world right now.” But let us not forget this is also a joyful show, a show that has become a traditional visit to the theater for many families whenever a production is staged nearby. Arena is using a score created for a recent London revival, featuring 10 instruments that recreate the sound of a klezmer band. The cast features the Arena debut of Jonathan Hadary, a New York-based actor with many Washington credits, as Tevye, and 20 Arena veterans in the 28-member company. “Hopefully, we are leaving the audience with a sense of hope, despite what these people in the family go through, particularly in the second act, which is brutal,” Arvia concludes. “It’s blow after blow that these people take. But hopefully the end of the show conveys that sense of, certainly, the cultural resilience that the Jewish people have had over the centuries.”

If you go Fiddler on the Roof runs through Jan. 4 on the Fichandler Stage at Arena Stage’s Mead Center for American Theater, locat-

ed at 1101 6th St. SW, Washington, D.C. The theater is located one block from the Waterfront Metro station on the Green Line. Parking is $20. Arena Stage offers free valet service to patrons with accessibility needs who call in advance. Showtimes: Sunday, Tuesday & Wednesday at 7:30 p.m.; Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday matinees at 2 p.m. Noon matinees are scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 18; Wednesday, Nov. 19; Wednesday, Dec. 10; and Wednesday, Dec. 31. Open-captioned performances are scheduled for Nov. 26 at 7:30 p.m. and Dec. 4 at 8 p.m. Beginning with the Nov. 7 performance at 8 p.m. all remaining performances will be audio described. There will be post-show discussions after these performances: Nov. 13 at 8 p.m.; Nov. 18 at noon; Nov. 19 at noon; Nov. 25 at 7:30 p.m.; and Dec. 10 at noon. Tickets range from $50 to $90 and may be purchased online at www.arenastage.org, by telephone at (202) 488-3300, or at the theater’s box office, Tuesday through Sunday, noon to 8 p.m. While there are no senior discounts, a limited number of half-price tickets are sold 30 minutes before curtain time at most performances. These HOTTIX are available only at the box office. For more information, visit www.arenastage.org or call (202) 488-3300; TTY: (202) 484-0247.

10TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

“Simply gorgeous!” ~The Washington Post

NOV 29 & 30 at THEARC Theater Specially priced $15 tickets for Ward 7 & 8 Residents.

Visit Vi it THEARC or callll 202.889.8150 today DEC 4–28 at the Warner Theatre Tickets start at $32*

washingtonballet.org 202.397.SEAT *Prices include $2 preservation fee

Maki Onuki as Miss Liberty. Photography by Dean Alexander and Steve Vaccariello.

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Arts & Style

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 4

“THE BEST KIND OF FEEL-GOOD SHOW! Warm-hearted and irresistible…a brilliant celebration of words, music, and color.” —London’s Sunday Times

December 16–January 4 | Opera House Tickets on sale now!

(202) 467-4600 kennedy-center.org

Tickets also available at the Box Office | Groups (202) 416-8400 Musical Theater at the Kennedy Center is made possible through the generosity of the Adrienne Arsht Musical Theater Fund.

The Kennedy Center Theater Season is sponsored by Altria Group.

The Kennedy Center welcomes patrons with disabilities.

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N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 4 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Degas’ Little Dancer comes to life on stage The $7 million Kennedy Center musical runs through Nov. 20. It’s the brainchild of the Broadway team of playwright and lyricist Lynn Ahrens, composer Stephen Flaherty, and director and choreographer Susan Stroman. The show was born out of their love of dance and an interest in one of the most important sculptures at the National Gallery of Art. “I would wonder about that little girl,” Stroman said during a recent visit to the museum. “Like, ‘Who was she? Why did he choose her?’ She looked different from all the other ballerinas that he would paint, and you could tell that she had spirit, she had character.” Degas, played by Tony Award-winning actor Boyd Gaines, made the wax-and-clay

sculpture between 1878 and 1881 as his eyesight began to fade. The piece was cast in bronze and circulated widely after the artist died, making it a fixture in museums.

Sculpting the story Parts of the story are based on writings left by Degas and American artist Mary Cassatt, who collaborated with him and who figures in the story as a strong woman amid a rising feminist movement. When Degas first exhibited his sculpture, critics disapproved, saying he created a homely specimen. Later, his young subject was fired from the ballet, though it’s not clear why. She disappears from the records, curators said. That gave Ahrens an opening to create the rest of Marie’s story. PHOTO BY MATTHEW KARAS

By Brett Zongker “Little Dancer Aged Fourteen,” a famous sculpture by Edgar Degas that can be seen in museums around the world, including Washington’s National Gallery of Art, is coming to life in a new musical exploring the story of a mysterious 14-yearold dancer and the artist who portrayed her. The production imagines the back story of Marie van Goethem, a struggling dancer in the world of the Paris Opera Ballet in the late 1800s, when dancing represented a chance at escaping poverty. Degas took an interest in dancers for his paintings and sculptures, leaving behind images of young ballerinas popular more than a century later.

Tiler Peck brings 14-yearold French ballerina Marie van Goethem to life in the Kennedy Center’s production of Little Dancer. The new musical is based on a famous sculpture of the dancer by Edgar Degas.

Stroman and Ahrens said they grew up seeing Degas’ images of dancers. Ahrens would pose like the “Little Dancer” as a girl. “For every little girl, every dancer, everybody who loves art...they know the See LITTLE DANCER, page 59

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 4

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Arts & Style

Three sure things in life for older dolts When you are a male of a certain age, shopping since you were knee-high to a three things are sure to happen to you: 1) toner cartridge. I know what’s expensive the waitress will always hand you the and what isn’t. I know what’s necessary and what isn’t. I like bargains check, 2) strangers will always as much as anyone alive. I call you “Sir,” even when you don’t need lectures, thank you don’t deserve it, and 3) women very much!” will instruct you in areas that But The Good Me simply folthey think they own. Like lowed the woman over to a comcooking, cleaning and, espeputer terminal. She punched it a cially, shopping. few times. There on the screen Sure Thing Number Three was a picture of the same toner opened wide for me the other cartridge we had just plucked day. It was an instructive few off the shelf. minutes, in many ways. HOW I SEE IT Online, it cost $22. I had My wife had sent me off to By Bob Levey been on track to spend $50. buy a replacement toner car“There, you see, sir?,” she said (thus tridge for our home office printer. Obedient as a lamb, I charged into our neighbor- confirming Sure Thing Number Two). “Now you know how to shop.” hood Staples. I thanked her and scurried home like As usual, I couldn’t find what I was looking for. So I asked an employee — who the chastened male soul I was. Do older men really need help with happened to be female — for help. She marched me right up to the car- shopping? Is clever, cost-effective shoptridge display. She studied the piece of ping really a female province? I’ve tried this story on several women paper my wife had handed me. On it was written the number of the model I needed. and several men, all of a certain age. They The woman immediately found the right all think that I marked myself as a hopebox — even though that box didn’t sport the less dunce the minute I asked for help. They also think that the saleslady number on my piece of paper. “See right here?,” she said, as if she knows male shopping incompetence when were talking to a dolt. “Model 4200 fits ma- she sees it. “Put yourself in her place,” said one chines that need model 6300.” “Oh,” said I, a dolt if ever there was one. friend. “All day, she’s there punching a regThen we marched to the cash register. ister. A guy comes in and asks where the She asked if I were a member of the Sta- toner cartridges are. He has white hair. He ples discount club. I said I didn’t know. has a bewildered look on his face. Now doesn’t she feel her oats? Doesn’t she say to Maybe my wife belonged? She asked for my phone number. I gave herself, ‘This man doesn’t get it, but I do?’” Another friend said that I was asking for it. Bingo, bango, three bucks melted off it from the minute I didn’t start to bargain my tab. over price. But we had only just begun. “Any serious shopper will have gone onThe cashier then asked if I had checked online for possible cartridge bargains. I line before he walks into the store and will know that the cartridge should only cost said I hadn’t. It was time for her grand-slam home run $22,” this friend said. “This woman is clearline. “Follow me,” she said. “I’m going to ly used to people walking in and demanding the online price. So she gave it to you, teach you how to shop.” You could almost feel the pity and dis- out of mercy.” A third friend said I had given the game dain in the air. The Bad Me could have exploded at this away when I mentioned my wife. “Any point. “Teach me how to shop!?,” I imag- time a man does this in a store, especially ined myself replying. “Lady, I’ve been if the clerk is female, he’s pinning a sign to

To subscribe or give a gift subscription, see page 61.

his chest that says, ‘I’m henpecked and I’m hopeless,’” this friend announced. A fourth friend said I shouldn’t feel so singled out. “Remember what girls used to say in high school when you complimented them? ‘Oh, you say that to all the girls.’ Well, I’ll bet you $22 that this saleslady offers every older man a discount. Just so he’ll return. And so he’ll tell his wife about it, so she’ll return.” Clearly, I needed a referee. So I called Staples customer service. A woman answered. I spun my tale and asked if female sales clerks at Staples are instructed to treat hopeless older male shoppers with a mixture of kindness, pity and disdain.

“Sir,” she said (thus again confirming Sure Thing Number Two), “our sales personnel treat everyone exactly the same.” So maybe this tale does not contain larger lessons. Maybe I’m just a dolt, and other older men are not. Maybe some women need and get the handholding treatment at Staples, too. Maybe my Staples clerk was just in a good mood on the day I wandered in. Then again, when the credit card bill arrived in the mail — the bill with the Staples charge on it — the envelope magically found its way into my “get it done” stack. Thus confirming Sure Thing Number One. Bob Levey is a national award-winning columnist.

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N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 4 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

A selection of scenes from the Beaconâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

2014 50+Expos

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Attendees learn to use the new AARP RealP ad tablet, introduced at the Expo by AARP TEK.

Attendees visit exhibitors at the N. Virginia 50+Expo at Ballston Mall.

Singer Bru ce Thomas , of the Trav Band, ente eling Heart rtained at bo Show th events.

Keynote speaker Robert Fischell speaks to a capacity crowd about his many life-saving medical devices.

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Say you saw it in the Beacon | Arts & Style

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 4

Little Dancer From page 56 face of that tough little girl,” Ahrens said. “But they don’t know her name.” The story is a unique concept, crossing art forms with a music-and-dance-infused story inspired by a 130-year-old sculpture that was inspired by the ballet. It’s a risk for the Kennedy Center in seeking to draw a crowd and to recoup its costs from often disparate audiences for theater, dance and fine art.

Melding genres Stroman — whose Broadway credits in-

clude The Producers, Contact and The Music Man — said she is one of the few people bridging genres as a lover of both ballet and musical theater. But she hopes Little Dancer will appeal more widely. “What I’m hoping for is that someone who loves the ballet will want to come see a story about a ballet dancer in Paris, and then someone who loves art will come to see the real story about the sculpture, and then someone who loves musical theater will come because of that,” she said. Tiler Peck, the New York City Ballet principal dancer who plays the young Marie, has visited the sculpture twice since rehearsals moved to Washington.

“I want to make sure I get it as perfectly as possible, and to be as true to the sculpture as I can,” she said. “To be able to see exactly how her hands are clasped and what her hair looked like, where the ribbon was placed.” A discussion series related to the show, Degas and dance takes place on select dates in November. For example, on Saturday, Nov. 15 at noon art historian Richard Kendall introduces Degas’ famous sculpture, and dance historian Jill De Vonyar explores what we know about the real “Little Dancer.” On Saturday, Nov. 22 at noon, learn about the lives of young dancers in

the Paris Opera Ballet. These are free events taking place in the Grand Foyer, and no tickets are required. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. Performances are Tuesday through Sunday evenings at 7:30 p.m., with matinee performances on Saturday and Sunday at 1:30 p.m. Additional matinee performances will take place on Nov. 6, 13, 19 and 28 at 1:30 p.m. Tickets, ranging from $45 to $155, are for sale on the Kennedy Center website, www.kennedy-center.org, in person at the Kennedy Center box office, or by calling Instant Charge at (202) 467-4600. — AP

BEACON BITS

Nov. 9

JEWISH MUSIC AND MORE Tenor Yehoshua Redfern, of Silver Spring, Md., will appear in con-

cert on Sunday, Nov. 9 at 2 p.m. “Dee Yiddish Lieder: Jewish Music and More” will take place at the Leah M. Smith Hall in the Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center at the University of Maryland, College Park, Md. Redfern, a cantor, will be performing classic artistic renditions including cantorial, Yiddish, Israeli, operatic, oratorio and Broadway. Daniel Gildar of Philadelphia, Pa. will accompany Redfern on the piano. General admission is $20 and $12 for students. For more information, visit http://theclarice.umd.edu/events/2014/cantor-yehoshua-redfern or call (301) 405-2787 or (301) 405-7794.

Apply for Discounts on Your Utility Bills Discounts are Subject to Income Eligibility Requirements

- Apply for Discounted Rates on Lifeline Program (Economy II)

Electric

Residential Aid Discount (RAD) Program

Annual discount on one land line service per household.

Natural Gas

Residential Essential Service (RES) Program

Potential savings up to $276 during the winter heating season.

Potential savings are between $300-$475 annually.

These programs are for DC residents only.

Water

Customer Assistance Program (CAP)

Potential discount could be over $400 annually.

For more info call 311 or visit ddoe.dc.gov/udp To apply for the telephone Lifeline Service (Economy II), call 800-253-0846.

scan

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Puzzle Page

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Crossword Puzzle Daily crosswords can be found on our website: www.TheBeaconNewspapers.com Click on Puzzles Plus Across Words by Stephen Sherr 1

8 15

28 33

35 39

50 54

19 22

63 65

Scrabble answers on p. 62.

Answer: What the heir used to get ahead — "WILL" POWER Jumbles: TWILL FROZE TWINGE BURLAP

Across

Down

1. Crafted 5. Eight wks., or more 8. Defamations 13. 12 1/2 cents 14. Mustang or Pinto 16. One who sets his sights on knowledge 17. Miss America accessory 18. And some other folks 19. Literary device 20. Puzzler’s practice 23. Ready to give birth 24. Red carpet walker 25. Mood ring, or pet rock 26. ___ as a church mouse 28. Grp, with Eagles, Falcons, and Seahawks 29. Commuter’s option 32. Puzzler’s vow 36. Sit by the railroad crossing 38. Railroad crossing letters 39. With competence 40. Puzzler’s journey 45. Twenty Questions response 46. Bridge designers (abbrev.) 47. French hound 50. Comrade 51. Finalize wedding invitations 53. “Bali ___” 54. Puzzler’s flag (with 64 Across) 58. Longest of the five W’s 59. “Fine and dandy, like ___ candy” 60. Activates a home equity loan 61. Islamic prince 62. Brownish purple (or purplish brown) 63. Nation due south of Delaware 64. See 54 Across 65. ___ and crumpets 66. Conclusion of REV- or DIV-

1. Fortress overlooking the Dead Sea 2. You can count on it 3. Crumbling neglect 4. Logical beginning 5. Esteemed musician 6. “Get me ___ here!” 7. The fourth Beatle 8. Ingredient in Chicken Florentine 9. Sensational 10. Second word of many fairy tales 11. Land-line sound 12. Cagy 15. Suffix for motor, pay, or schnozz 21. SCISSOR, kicked of its start 22. Questionable 27. Tetra- times two 28. Las Cruces inst. 29. Event with diaper wipes ... and cake 30. www.thebeaconnewspapers.com, e.g. 31. Pigpen 33. Pouches 34. B’way sellout sign 35. Corn units 36. The ___ of the world 37. High card 41. Himalayan hopefuls 42. Divest one’s real estate portfolio 43. San Antonio or Oklahoma City 44. After-bath powder 48. Short cuts and cheat sheets 49. Lightweight paper 50. Use a Cuisniart 51. Foremost part of a pig 52. Derive from the facts 54. Dumb jerk 55. Razor-sharp 56. Nile snake 57. Clue weapon 58. ___ of lies

Answers on page 62.

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 4

Letters to editor From page 2

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Arts & Style

ONE BIG HAPPY By Rick Detorie

I was a member of the 42d Infantry Rainbow division during World War II, stationed in a permanent artillery complex known as Ft. Sill, Oklahoma. What I will never forget is that I was able to attend my father’s funeral through the help of my commanding officer, Officer Charles L. Brown. One day, I received a Red Cross telegram informing me: “YOUR FATHER ARTHUR ROSEN SERIOUSLY ILL COME HOME AT ONCE.” I obtained a necessary furlough, and proceeded to a nearby railroad station for a train that could take me home. While waiting, I phoned to let my family know that I was on the way and scheduled to arrive in two or three days. A close relative who answered the phone exclaimed, “Your father died today, and the funeral is tomorrow! Please come home [by then].” I checked possibilities of catching a plane, and was informed that I needed a priority for a plane flight. I also became aware that I did not have enough money for the trip. I had heard that the Red Cross sometimes helped soldiers when cash is needed. I rushed to that office, and learned that they did not supply cash for plane flights. I rushed back to my Army group. When I mentioned my problem to Mr. Brown (warrant officers were addressed that way), he simply asked, “How much do you need?” I am happy to say that through Mr. Brown’s assistance, after catching three different planes, I was able to arrive home on time for the funeral. I recently recited prayers for my dad on the anniversary of his departure, at which time I also remembered Warrant Officer Charles L. Brown, a great human being. Larry Rosen Rockville, Md.

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Entertainment

For Sale

Personal Services

PIANIST, VOCALIST, DANCER provides fun and interactive music programs, sing-a-longs, ballroom dancing and more; all with a touch of humor. See brief videos and info at MarkHanakMusic.com or call 301-293-2933.

COMPUTER. DELL 4GB, WINDOWS 8.1. Includes monitor, k=keyboard, mouse. Purchased 2013. $225; HP Deskjet 932C Printer with extra ink. $50. 301-916-9022.

READY TO DE-CLUTTER? I can help. Sort, donate, discard. Reasonable rates. Call Jan, 301933-7570.

THE SHALOM SIGNATURE CLUB: If you like Bagels and Lox, Matzah Balls and Kugel, then you need to try our activities. We’re a dynamic social club geared to folks 50 and up. Many of our activities have a Jewish theme; most are free of charge and take place in the Friendship Heights neighborhood of Chevy Chase. Currently, our regular monthly schedule features two afternoon activities (at 1 p.m. and includes lunch) and two evening activities (usually 7 p.m.), plus a monthly Friday-eve Shabbat Dinner. For further info, visit www.ShalomSC.org or call 240-200-4515.

For Sale/Rent: Real Estate NEWLY-RENOVATED BASEMENT apartment in the cozy Brookland and CUA area. Quiet, safe neighborhood close to Metro, bus line, and local hospitals. $900/month (utilities included). Non-smoking/no pets allowed. Available immediately! If interested, please contact Ms. Habermehl after 4 pm for details at 202-276-4958. I BUY HOUSES ANY CONDITION – Fairfax County, VA. Save time, money and worry. Not an agent, no commissions. Female owned. 703-9695847, ibuyfairfaxhouses@gmail.com. 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 preview units & contact you with 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 on page 43. Contact me: 301-580-5556, SueHeyman@aol.com, www.SueHeyman.com, Weichert Realtors. LUXURY CONDO IN MONTGOMERY County retirement community. 2 bedroom, 2 baths, garage parking, golf course view, 1315 sq feet. $1925 per month. Call Roberta Campbell, Weichert, Realtors, 301-681-0550 (office) or 301-801-7906 (cell). LEISURE WORLD ® – $139,000. 2BR 2FB 1HB “Dartmouth” model townhouse. Separate dining room with Bay Window overlooking sunny patio, Dual master suites. 1359 sq ft. Stan Moffson, Weichert, Realtors. 301-928-3463. LEISURE WORLD® – $359,000. 3BR 2FB 1HB “H” model with garage in “Villa Cortese.” Separate dining room plus table space kitchen with window, enclosed balcony, laundry room, new paint and carpet. 1629 sq ft. Stan Moffson, Weichert, Realtors. 301-928-3463. LEISURE WORLD® – $179,000. 2BR 2FB “CC” model in Turnberry Courts. Open floor plan with enclosed balcony, new paint, close to the elevator. 1092 sq ft. Stan Moffson, Weichert, Realtors. 301-928-3463. LEISURE WORLD® – $325,000. 2 BR 2 FB “Royal Aintree” patio home with updated kitchen, enclosed sunroom addition, 1 car garage. 1394 sq ft. Stan Moffson, Weichert, Realtors. 301-928-3463. LEISURE WORLD® – $189,000. 2BR 2FB “C” model in “Overlook” with fully appointed kitchen with pass-through to living room, enclosed balcony. 1090 sq ft. Stan Moffson, Weichert, Realtors. 301-928-3463.

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Health Wanted MOBILE MD AVAILABLE – Licensed physician, Family Medicine and Urgent Care. 24/7, where you are. Accept: Medicare, Medicaid. Call: 703-303-2543. Fax: 703-641-8321. Email: dr.zhousclinic@gmail.com.

Legal Services WILLS & TRUSTS – The Perfect Holiday Gift for a loved one or for yourself. Give an Estate Planning Gift Certificate to a Maryland resident who has procrastinated making or updating a will. Highly rated, experienced lawyer Susan Eleff offers reasonable rates, flexible hours. Mention this ad for a free initial 15-minute consult (dates and times subject to availability). More info: www.elefflaw.com. Contact Law@Eleff.net or 240-395-4406.

Miscellaneous 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 301-338-4810, email info@goldennetwork.org, or see goldennetwork.org. PHOTOGRAPHY PROJECT on Clutter – Looking for Participants. Do you struggle with clutter or know someone who does? I am an Alexandria-based photographer looking for packrats or chronic savers who are willing to have their spaces anonymously photographed. Compensation provided. Call 571-331-9316 or visit everittclarkphotography.com/clutter for more information.

Personals I AM A WIDOWER IN THE 80s, moved to Silver Spring, MD next to my family, looking for a pen pal for friendship with lady, write about life as seniors, future, current topics, what one could have and didn’t. I will acquaint you about myself and my Weltanschuung for you to see that I am above board. Email is Bebe5906@aol.com.

WE BUY OLD AND NEW JEWELRY, Coins, Silver and Gold, Paper Money Too. Watches, Clocks and Parts, Military Badges and Patches Old and New. Call Greg, 717-658-7954. 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. VINYL RECORDS WANTED 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. OLD AND NEW WE BUY Sterling Silver Flatware, Tea Sets, Single Pieces, Fountain Pens, Lighters, Tools, Cameras, Glassware, Art Work. Toys From Trains to Hotwheels to Star Wars. Call Greg, 717-658-7954. 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 240-476-3441. 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.

Classifieds cont. on p. 63

FROM PAGE 60

HUSBAND OF BRAIN-INJURED WOMAN seeks Long-Term Relation with Marriage in Mind. In my late 60s, DC area, active and fit, gentlemen. Wife in accident 2 years ago with major brain injury, mental and physical abilities poor, no communication or companionship. Relation reduced to caregiver. No immediate divorce now, but want relation with good lady. Marriage likely. Race irrelevant. Please contact Paul at saver7777@aol.com.

ANSWERS TO SCRABBLE

Personal Services JUNIOR/SENIOR ERRAND GUY – for any reasonable errand. Walk dog, feed cat, pick up prescriptions, grocery shop, house watch while you are away, dept. store returns, wait in line at MVA, take care of oil change, wash, shop, schlepp, serve. Joe Rice. H: 301-947-4933. C:301944-4924. Gaithersburg/Kentlands resident 17 years. FOR THE GIFTED AND TALENTED. Math and more for GT.com. jim4nv92@verizon.net. CHERYL’S ORGANIZING CONCEPTS LLC – Professional Organizing Services. Help with all aspects of home organizing. Experienced – References – Member NAPO. All work confidential. Licensed – Bonded. $25 discount on initial appointment. www.CherylsOrganizing.com. 301-916-9022. WILL TYPE YOUR MEMOIRS, manuscripts, etc. For info and rates, call 703-671-1854. VAN MAN – For your driving needs. Shopping, appointments, pick-up and deliver – airport van. Call Mike, 301-565-4051.

ANSWERS TO CROSSWORD M A S A D A

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D I S R E P A W A I A C R Y E S S K W H E E M E B O N

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L U R I D E A R S R O P E

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WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 4

Classifieds cont. from page 62. Wanted 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. CASH FOR ESTATE BUYOUTS, estate clean-outs, jewelry to furniture, one item or whole state. Free Estimate, Will Travel. 301520-0755.

Say you saw it in the Beacon

Wanted 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. 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 301-6540838. WANTED: ANTIQUE ELECTRONICS, engineer’s estates, Hi-Fi Stereo, huge old loudspeakers, ham radios, records, professional quality musical instruments, antique computers, scientific curiosities. 202-527-9501, vcvdc@msn.com. CASH FOR RECORDS & CDs. BEST PRICE GUARANTEED. Free appraisals. All types of music, 33, 45, 78 & CDs. Call Steve 301646-5403. Will make house calls. ELECTRIC SLOT-RACING CARS & accessories from 60s & 70s especially Aurora, Atlas & Tyco HO-scale plus other manufacturers scales. Call Bill @ 410-615-7043.

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 Research Studies Healthy Adult Vision Study . . . . . . . . . .26 IDEAL Healthy Aging Study . . . . . . . . .27 Diabetes Study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26

Dental Services

Hearing Services Auditory Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29 Miracle Ear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 Sound Hearing Centers . . . . . . . . . . .16

Home Health Care

Events

Best Senior Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27 Classic Caregiving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Elder Caring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 Holy Cross Home Care & Hospice . . .21 Old Dominion Home Care . . . . . . . . .23 Options for Senior America . . . . . . . . . .25 Virginian Home Health Services . . . . . .64

Holiday Craft Show . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53

Hospice

Financial Services

Community Hospice . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

Car-J Car Donation . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44

Housing

IDC Dental Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 Friedman, Stephen, DDS . . . . . . . . . .24 Oh, Judy, DDS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16

Children’s National . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35 Four Sales LTD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39 G&G Pawnbrokers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48 HC Custom Homes . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37 Media Masters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39 Quinn’s Auction Galleries . . . . . . . . .61 USA Financial Planning Parters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35

Funeral Services Fram Monuments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37 Going Home Cremation Services . . .40

Government Services D.D.O.E. Utility Discouts . . . . . . . . .59 D.C. Office on Aging . . . . . . . . . .31-34 D.C. Dept. of Health . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 Montgomery County Aging and Disability Services . . . . . . . . . .28 Montgomery County Information & Services/311 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57

Ashby Ponds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28 Aspenwood Senior Living Community .42 Brooke Grove Retirement Village . . . . .20 Charles E. Smith Life Communities . .48 Charter House . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49 Chesterbrook Residences Assisted Living . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36 Churchill Senior Living . . . . . . . . . . .21 Culpeper Baptist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Culpepper Garden . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43 Forest Hills of DC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29 Friendship Terrace . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37 Greenspring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28 Homecrest House . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40 Oaks at Olde Towne, The . . . . . . . . . .59 Olney Assisted Living . . . . . . . . . . . .38 Pack-N-Move . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39 Park View Apartments . . . . . . . . . . . .51 Potomac Place Assisted Living . . . . .42 Quantum Property Management . . . .30 Residences at Thomas Circle . . . . . . . . .40 Riderwood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28 Solana of Olney . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57 Sommerset Retirement Community . .56

Springvale Terrace . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42 Sylvestry Memory Support . . . . . . . . .17 Victoria Park Senior Apartments . . . .41 Village at Rockville . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 Vinson Hall Retirement Community .17,43 Virginian . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64

Original Pancake House . . . . . . . . . . .51 Wrap2Go . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50

Legal Services

Boone & Sons, Jewelers . . . . . . . . . .36

Restaurants

Retail Senior Organizations

AARP Legal Counsel for the Elderly . . . . . . . . . .41 Law Firm of Evan. H. Farr . . . . . . . . . .36 Law Offices of Paul Riekhof . . . . . . . . .37

AARP Maryland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 Shalom Signature Club . . . . . . . . . . .38

Medical/Health

Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation

2 Fitt Wellness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28 Advanced Spine & Wellness Systems . . . . . . . . . . . .1, 11 CareFirst BC/BS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44 Columbia Lighthouse for the Blind . .13 Doctors First . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 HealthQare Associates . . . . . . . . . . . .13 Low Vision Specialists of Maryland & Virginia . . . . . . . . .21 Medical Eye Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27 NAVA Health & Vitality Center . . . .10 Podiatry House Calls . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 Roberts Home Medical . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Seven Corners Medical Center . . . . . . . .26 Silver Spring Medical Center . . . . . . . . .24 Stem Cell Arts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Pharmacy CVS/pharmacy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52 Rite Aid Pharmacy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56

Real Estate Services

CommuniCare Health . . . . . . . . . . . .21 Manor Care Health Services . . . . . . .25 Village at Rockville, The . . . . . . . . . .23

Subscription Services Beacon Subscription . . . . . . . . . . . . .61 Washington Jewish Week . . . . . . . . . .48

Theatre/Entertainment Kennedy Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55 Toby’s Dinner Theatre . . . . . . . . . . . .53 Washington Ballet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54

Tour & Travel Eyre Bus, Tour & Travel . . . . . . . . . .47 Tripper Bus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47 US Navy Memorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54 Vamoose Bus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49

Transportation Connect-A-Ride . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50

Eric Stewart - Long & Foster Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45 Keller Williams - Lisa Langlais . . . . .18 Swan Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47 Weichert Realtors - Sue Heyman . . . .43

Utilities PEPCO Take Control of Energy Use .15 Verizon DC Lifeline Program . . . . . .50

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N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 4 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N