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With siblings, it’s complicated

Growing closer with age Baltimore County resident Iris Ingber, who is 67 and a school nurse, acknowledges that there have been ebbs and flows in her relationships with her two younger brothers, Carl and Lee Oppenheim. “We weren’t close as kids,” she recalled. “We had our arguments.” Though 64-year-old brother Carl, a dentist, observes, “It was just kid stuff…there was no lasting animosity.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF CARL OPPENHEIM

By Carol Sorgen Our relationships with our siblings are, generally speaking, the longest relationships we have. “They are with us throughout life,” said Geoffrey L. Greif (rhymes with “life”). “They’re like a shadow.” Greif, a professor at the University of Maryland School of Social Work, has been teaching and practicing family, group and individual therapy for more than 40 years, and is something of an expert on siblings. Apart from having two brothers himself, he also co-authored a book on the topic titled, appropriately enough, Adult Sibling Relationships. His co-author Michael E. Woolley, is an associate professor at the same school and director of research at the Maryland Longitudinal Data System Center. Their book is based on extensive interviews and surveys with 262 people between the ages of 40 and 90 who had at least one living sibling. Through their research, Greif and Woolley have observed that most sibling relationships are, as a rule, a mixture of affection, ambivalence and ambiguity. That means if you think your relationship with your siblings is complicated, you’re not alone. In fact, you’re pretty normal. “Siblings give us sustenance and support,” said Greif, “but they can also cause us great pain.” The authors found that only 8 percent of the people they interviewed said they were never close to their siblings, and only 22 percent said they had always been close. That leaves 70 percent whose relationships are a mixed bag of feelings, whether all at the same time or shifting through the years. And that’s OK, said Greif. “There’s so much pressure for us to have a Norman Rockwell-type of relationship, but mixed feelings are normal. Don’t force it.”

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I N S I D E …

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

There are plenty of places to find your heart in San Francisco; plus, an immersive training safari, and caring for elephants in Cambodia page 22

Siblings Lee Oppenheim, Iris Ingber and Carl Oppenheim have grown closer with age, as they share the responsibility of caring for their 94-year-old father. Relationships between adult siblings can be a complex amalgam of affection, ambivalence and ambiguity, according to experts.

And while they admit that they wouldn’t characterize themselves as “best friends,” their relationships are important to each of them. Distance has some effect on how often the siblings see each other. Lee and his family lived in England for five years and now live in Northern Virginia, where Lee, 66, works for a government agency. Meanwhile, Iris and Carl and their families have remained in Baltimore. As a result, Iris sees Carl more often — every Friday night, in fact, as she continues a tradition her parents began of Friday night Sabbath dinners. The three share responsibility of caring for their 94-year-old father, though both Lee and Carl note that Iris “takes the lead.” “Occasionally I disagree with a decision,” said Lee, “but we always talk about it and work it out.”

For Carl, his relationship with his siblings was fostered by his parents. “My parents taught us to be generous, honest and thoughtful,” he said. “I think of my brother and sister in those terms. They’re good people. They’re people I like to know.” Sisters Freddye Silverman, 66, and Randy Jacobs, 63, have not always been as close as they are now. With a three-year age difference (and a four-grade difference in school), as youngsters the siblings didn’t socialize with each other and had no friends in common. In fact, Silverman would lord her older sister status over Jacobs. “I’d lock her in the bathroom in the basement,” Silverman recalled with a laugh. What the sisters did have in common See SIBLINGS, page 28

ARTS & STYLE

Old habits get a new twist in Sister Act; plus, a local author pens a Baltimore bucket list page 26

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Kudos to our writers Each year, we enter a selection of our as those from AARP, the Arthritis Foundawriters’ original stories in the journalism tion and the Mayo Clinic. competitions of the National We are especially proud Mature Media Awards and the that this year, all 12 of our enNorth American Mature Pubtries won honors in this comlishers Association (NAMPA). petition! We do this for two reasons: In the category for original One, as a way to be sure we articles, four cover stories from are keeping up the quality of the Baltimore Beacon were our writing compared with honored: “Elder abuse often other publications throughnot reported” and “Our worldout the country. renowned glassblower” won Two, because we’re pretty Silver Awards, while “Growing confident about the first reaolder without children” and FROM THE son, (that is, we believe our “Being gay and gray in BaltiPUBLISHER writers are among the best more” won Bronze Awards. By Stuart P. Rosenthal anywhere), and want to give All four cover stories were them the opportunity to earn written by our Baltimore conrecognition they will treasure from well-re- tributing editor, Carol Sorgen. Carol has spected, objective judges. been writing for us since we began the BalI’m happy and proud to report that timore Beacon a dozen years ago and wins every one of our regular writers and free- accolades every year for her excellent lancers came away with one or more hon- work. We are proud to have her on our staff. ors in this year’s competitions. Two cover stories from the Howard The declared goal of the Mature Media County Beacon won Bronze Awards — Awards is “to recognize the nation’s ‘best “Program takes a bite out of hunger,” and and brightest’ materials and programs pro- “Remembering WWII 70 years later.” And duced every year for older adults.” The pres- another cover won a Merit Award. All tigious competition attracts entries from na- three articles were by Robert Friedman, tional organizations and publications, such a regular contributor to our Howard Coun-

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

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ty edition. As in Baltimore, four cover stories from our flagship Greater Washington Beacon were honored — two with Silver Awards, plus one Bronze and one Merit Award — all by our managing editor, Barbara Ruben. In addition, that edition also won a Bronze Award in the broader Newsletter/Newspaper category. Another annual journalism competition is held by the North American Mature Publishers Association (NAMPA), the association for newspapers and magazines specifically for the 50+ market. NAMPA’s annual journalism competition attracts hundreds of submissions every year and is judged by internationally respected faculty at the University of Missouri School of Journalism. This year, we received 20 NAMPA awards. Carol Sorgen won a first place for Feature Writing, a first for Topical Issues, and a second for Profile, all in our Baltimore edition. Robert Friedman was honored with a first place for Feature Writing and a third place for Topical Issues in our Howard County edition. And our Washington edition not only won “Best of Show” and first place for General Excellence in its category (publications over 100,000 circulation), but also multiple honors in the following categories: Review Column (arts reviewer Michael Toscano), Senior Issues (columnist Bob Levey), Personal Essay (former advertising representative Jill Joseph), Profiles (Barbara Ruben), How-to Feature (Rebekah Sewell Alcalde), Travel Column (Glenda Booth), and Topical Issues (yours truly). The judges took the time to write a specific paragraph about each winning article. I won’t take the space to repeat any in full, but among their statements are the following de-

scriptions: “a fascinating read,” “informative and clearly written,” “smoothly and engagingly told,” “excellent reporting,” and “a compelling piece.” The judges said our cover stories “make this publication stand out.” Of course, whatever awards we do or do not win, what matters most to us is that you, our readers, are pleased with the practical information, news and entertainment you find each month in the Beacon. Please let us know what you think — even (actually, especially) if you think we are missing the boat in any particular area. Also feel free to share ideas for future stories and to recommend your fellow citizens for profiles. Your opinions, suggestions and letters to the editor are always welcome, whether you contact us by mail, phone, fax, email or online. I want to conclude by expressing my thanks to, and admiration for, all our writers (and editors) mentioned above as well as the other members of our staff, who work so diligently to produce the Beacon every month. I’d like to thank them by name for their efforts and devoted contributions: Vice President of Operations Gordon Hasenei, Director of Sales Alan Spiegel, Art Director Kyle Gregory, Asst. Operations Manager (and webmaster) Roger King, Advertising Representatives Doug Hallock, Steve Levin, Dan Kelly, Rena Pinsky and Paul Whipple, Social Media Assistant Steve Andrzejczyk, and last but certainly not least, my wife and Associate Publisher Judy Rosenthal. The Beacon would not exist without all of their efforts, nor without you reading our publications. My appreciation goes out to all of you.

Letters to the editor Readers are encouraged to share their opinion on any matter addressed in the Beacon as well as on political and social issues of the day. Mail your Letter to the Editor to The Beacon, P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915, or e-mail to barbara@thebeaconnewspapers.com. Please include your name, address and telephone number for verification. Dear Editor: On Sept. 11, I traveled from Baltimore to go to the Beacon 50+ Expo at the Silver Spring Civic Center, which I learned about in the Beacon’s Baltimore edition. I am glad that I did. I was particularly interested in going to the Tech Cafe for mentoring by high school students about smartphones. I am delighted about my experience. The Tech Connect teens were terrific in getting me started with smartphones. They defined terms associated with smartphones, explained the differences between the two operating systems, suggested what brands and price levels of smartphones would meet my needs, and mentioned stores where I could buy them. They let me play with their smartphones,

and I was able to take and keep videos. They were unconcerned when I inadvertently stored a photo of a certain presidential candidate on one of their smartphones. I was reassured that the photo could be easily deleted. I left feeling confident that I knew enough about smartphones that I could proceed to buying and using one. Thank you, Beacon 50+ Expo for Tech Cafe! Michael S. Altus Baltimore, Md. Dear Editor: Several days ago I received a letter and check from my healthcare insurer. It said, “The Affordable Care Act requires insurers to pay out no less than 80 percent of every premium dollar in medical benefits. See LETTERS TO EDITOR, page 21

BALTIMORE BEACON — NOVEMBER 2016

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Health Fitness &

HIGH ANXIETY Tranquilizers and sleeping pills may actually make you more anxious MEDICARE OPEN SEASON Make changes to your drug or Medicare Advantage plans by Dec. 7 EXTRA ENERGY Give yourself a boost with easy-to-make homemade energy bars DRINK TO BETTER BONES? While a substance in tequila may keep bones strong, it’s too soon for a shot

Avoiding delirium during a hospital stay By Beverly Merz My mother was lucid and alert when she was hospitalized for pneumonia. But by the middle of the first night, she was wondering how she had ended up at a “hotel” that allowed strangers to enter her room at all hours. The second night, she wandered into the corridor, slipped and fractured a hip. She didn’t leave the hospital alive. Her story, though extreme, is sadly typical. According to several major studies, about half of people over 65 have episodes of delirium — a sudden change in mental status — during hospital stays. And those who do are at increased risk for falling, requiring nursing home care, and developing cognitive impairment and dementia. It’s easy to understand why hospitalization can be disorienting. Your daily routine is overturned, you are introduced to a stream of new caregivers, and it’s hard to sleep through the night. Anesthetics or sedative medications can also affect your mental state. But decades ago, Sharon Inouye, M.D., M.P.H., professor of medicine at Harvard

Medical School, recognized that delirium in older patients isn’t an inevitable consequence of hospitalization. Inouye and colleagues developed a program called the Hospital Elder Life Program (HELP). Available at 200 hospitals in the United States, HELP involves identifying patients at risk for delirium when they enter the hospital, and assigning them to receive special care to minimize six major risk factors associated with delirium: cognitive impairment, sleep deprivation, immobility, visual impairment, hearing impairment, and dehydration. Studies have found that HELP is associated with significant reductions in the percentage of patients who develop delirium. It is also linked to fewer falls while in the hospital, shorter hospital stays, fewer nursing home admissions, and a lower rate

of cognitive and physical decline.

What you can do to avoid delirium If you or a loved one is scheduled for a hospital stay, ask whether your hospital has HELP or another program for preventing delirium. If not, there are several things you can do as a patient or caregiver. If you’re going into the hospital: 1. Gather your records. Prepare a “medical information sheet” listing all your allergies, the names and phone numbers of your physicians and your usual pharmacy, all your medical conditions, and all the medications — both prescription and nonprescription — you’re currently taking. Have your medical records forwarded to the doctors who will be caring for you. 2. Bring the essentials. You’ll need

“About half of people over 65 have episodes of delirium during hospital stays.”

your glasses, hearing aids and fresh batteries, and dentures. Ask if you can bring a few familiar things like family photos, a good book, or an MP3 player with your favorite music or relaxation exercises. 3. Set up a support team. Let family and friends know you’re being hospitalized and ask them to visit. If you’re a caregiver: 1. Arrange companionship. Schedule family and friends to visit in shifts — and to stay overnight, if possible. 2. Work with the nurses. See if they’d like your help in encouraging the person to eat, stay hydrated, and to participate in rehabilitation therapy. 3. Be vigilant. If you notice signs of confusion, memory problems, or personality changes, let the nurses or physicians know immediately. Beverly Merz is the executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. © 2016. President and Fellows of Harvard College. All Rights Reserved. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Reaping benefits from simple meditation By Dr. Howard LeWine Q: I have been hearing a lot more about mindfulness recently. Given my hectic life, it sounds like I might benefit. But I am not sure how to start. Any suggestions? A: Mindfulness is the practice of purposely focusing your attention on the present mo-

ment — and accepting it without judgment. Mindfulness meditation is an excellent way to get started. In mindfulness meditation, you learn to establish concentration. You observe the flow of inner thoughts, emotions and bodily sensations without judging them as good or bad. The challenge is to avoid latching on to a particular idea,

BEACON BITS

Nov. 5

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The Alzheimer’s Association Greater Maryland Chapter will present the 12th Annual Pythias A. and Virginia I. Jones AfricanAmerican Community Forum on Memory Loss, Saturday, Nov. 5, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Coppin State University’s Talon Center (2500 W. North Ave.) Event admission is free and includes a continental breakfast and lunch. Registration is required by Oct. 28. For more information or to register, call (800) 272-3900 or visit www.alz.org/maryland.

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Join pharmacist Melissa Beatty for a presentation on new technology being used in pharmacies to ensure that patients receive quality care. Topics include genetic testing, medication synchronization and special packaging. The discussions are sponsored by the Baltimore County Department of Aging and will be held through Dec. 19 at different senior center locations. For more information, call (410) 887-2040 or visit www.baltimorecountymd.gov/agencies/Aging/healtheducation.

emotion or sensation, or getting caught in thinking about the past or the future. There is more than one way to practice mindfulness, but the goal of any mindfulness technique is to achieve a state of alert, focused relaxation by deliberately paying attention to thoughts and sensations without judgment. This allows the mind to refocus on the present moment. Here is a simple mindfulness meditation exercise you can try on your own: 1. Sit on a straight-backed chair or cross-legged on the floor. 2. Focus on an aspect of your breathing, such as the sensations of air flowing into your nostrils and out of your mouth, or your belly rising and falling as you inhale and exhale. 3. Once you’ve narrowed your concentration in this way, begin to widen your focus. Become aware of sounds, sensations and ideas. 4. Embrace and consider each thought or sensation without judging it good or bad. If your mind starts to race, return your focus to your breathing. Then expand your awareness again. The benefits of mindfulness meditation

tend to be related to the duration and frequency of your practice — the more you do, the greater the effect it usually has. Most people find that it takes at least 20 minutes for the mind to begin to settle, so this is a reasonable way to start. Above all, mindfulness practice involves accepting whatever arises in your awareness at each moment. It involves being kind and forgiving toward yourself. If your mind wanders into planning, daydreaming or criticism, notice where it has gone and gently redirect it to sensations in the present. If you miss your intended meditation session, you simply start again. With mindfulness practice during your meditation sessions, it becomes easier to accept whatever comes your way during the rest of your day. Howard LeWine, M.D., is an internist at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston and assistant professor at Harvard Medical School. For additional consumer health information, please visit www.health.harvard.edu. © 2016 President and Fellows of Harvard College. All Rights Reserved. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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BALTIMORE BEACON — NOVEMBER 2016

Snacks can be fine, if you snack smarter

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fruit, such as apricots, a handful of almonds and a few whole-wheat crackers as healthier alternatives to the salty snacks you might find at convenience stores or the airport. Sip plenty of water along the way. EatingWell is a magazine and website devoted to healthy eating as a way of life. Online at www.eatingwell.com. © 2016 Eating Well, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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BEACON BITS

at home. You’ll save money, and get a bigger bang for your nutritional buck. Try an ounce of almonds and an orange, or a handful of pretzels with some hummus. Planning snacks that provide both carbohydrates and protein will help tide you over until dinner. 8. Don’t get tripped up by travel. However often you travel, prepare in advance so you’ll have healthy snacks to eat en route. For shorter trips, pack a quarter-cup of dried

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you savor them individually, you’ll get a lot of satisfaction for just a handful of calories. 4. Include a treat every day. Believe it or not, giving yourself little treats may be the secret to losing weight — for good. Aiming to be “too good” sets you up to fail. If you like a glass of wine with dinner, make room for it. Prefer dessert? Skip the drink and go for a low-calorie chocolate treat instead. 5. Snack (and multitask) mindfully. Munching mindlessly in front of the TV is a surefire way to eat unnecessary calories. But that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a bowl of freshly popped popcorn or your favorite snack. Instead of popping a big bag of microwave popcorn, for example, choose a “mini” 100-calorie bag. And be sure to account for those calories by cutting back elsewhere in your day. 6. Use snacks to fill nutritional gaps. Make your snacks count. Choose those that provide calcium and fiber — two nutrients that people often skimp on. Two snacks to try: a cup of yogurt with a halfcup of whole-grain cereal mixed in, or a skim latte plus an apple. 7. Brown-bag your snack. Skip the vending machine and satisfy the afternoon “munchies” with a healthy snack you packed

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Eating a snack or two between meals can curb hunger so that you don’t inhale everything on the dining room table when you finally sit down to supper. Snacking can also help you get in all the nutrients you need. On the flip side, grazing all day — particularly on foods of little nutritional value — may result in eating too much and packing on extra pounds. The key is taking a smart approach to snacking. Here are some simple strategies to get you started. 1. Slow down. Take some time to enjoy what you’re eating. If that’s hard to do, try eating unshelled pistachios or other foods that take some effort to uncover, like oranges. The pile of empty shells or peels is a good visual cue to remind you to keep an eye on serving sizes. 2. Keep canned chickpeas in the pantry. They have a meaty texture and a nutty flavor, along with plenty of satiating fiber and a little protein — the perfect combination for a filling snack. Toss chickpeas with crunchy veggies and shallots, then drizzle with a hint of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon. Just be sure to watch your serving size. 3. Toss grapes in the freezer for an easy snack. Because they’re sweet and

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NO OVCETM OBER 2016 — BALTIMORE BEACON

Take these steps to prevent falls at home By Jim Miller Dear Savvy Senior: My 79-year-old mother, who lives alone, has fallen several times over the past year. Are there any extra precautions we should take that can help prevent this? — Worried Daughter Dear Worried: Falls are a big concern for many older persons and their families. Each year, nearly one-third of older Americans fall, making it the leading cause of both fatal

and nonfatal injuries for those age 65 and older. But many falls can be prevented.

Encourage exercise Weak leg muscles and poor balance are two of the biggest risk factors that cause people to fall. Tai chi, walking, water aerobics and strength training are all good for improving balance and strength, as are a number of simple balance exercises that she can do anytime — like standing on one foot for 30 seconds then switching to the other foot, and

walking heel-to-toe across the room. For additional balance and leg strengthening exercises, the National Institute on Aging offers free exercise guides and a DVD that you can order at Go4Life.nia.nih.gov.

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

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

Modify your home There are also a number of simple household modifications you can do to make your mom’s living area safer. Start by arranging or moving the furniture so there are clear pathways to walk through, and by picking up items on the floor that could cause her to trip, such as newspapers, shoes, clothes, and electrical or phone cords. If she has throw rugs, remove them or

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

Choose safe footwear Your mom should be aware that going barefoot or wearing slippers or socks at home can also cause falls, as can wearing backless shoes, high heels, and shoes with smooth leather soles. The safest option are rubber-soled, low-heeled shoes.

Purchase some helpful aids If your mom needs some help, talk to

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Starting October 12 | Wednesdays, 1:30pm - 4pm Learn from trained leaders and connect with peers who are also living with chronic conditions.

You will learn how to: • • • • • • • •

Manage symptoms and medications Set weekly goals Work with your health care team Problem-solve eﬀectively Improve communication Relax Handle diﬀerent emotions Eat well, and exercise safely

For more info and to RSVP, contact 410-662-4363 or email CommunityHealth@Keswick-Multicare.org

See PREVENT FALLS, page 7

As a podiatrist with over 30 years experience, I have always focused on non-surgical treatment of foot and leg pain. I find that most people with foot or leg symptoms (arthritic, aching, burning, cramping or difficulty walking) , even those who have had other treatments, including surgery of the foot (or back), can be helped, usually in 1 or 2 visits.

Stuart Goldman, DPM

410-235-2345

20 Crossroads Dr, Suite 15 Owings Mills, MD 21117

New Location

— Dr. Stuart Goldman Fellow American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons Marquis Who’s Who in Medicine and Healthcare Author, multiple articles on Foot & Leg Symptoms

WATCh reAL PATieNT TeSTiMoNiALS oN heLPForYourFeeT.CoM

BALTIMORE BEACON — NOVEMBER 2016

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Fitness & Health

Is your medicine making you anxious? You wake up at 4 a.m. feeling tired, yet thoughts are occupying much of your day, wired, and you keep twirling some person it’s time to do something about it. or event in your head, never As a pharmacist, I bet you going back to sleep. think that I’m going to recomOr you feel something bad mend a tranquilizer, but I’m is going to happen today; you not. In fact, that is the worst just know it! possible thing you could do! I Or your chest pounds and rarely recommend drug treatyou feel dread when you think ment for anxiety. about going to that event or Rather, I hold the opposite speaking to a certain someone. belief. I actually want you to These are some symptoms consider the possibility that a of anxiety. Some of you live medication you take may be with this every day, perhaps DEAR CAUSING the anxiety and several times a day. Ruminat- PHARMACIST changes in your mood. By Suzy Cohen ing in a state of fear, panic or For almost 7 million folks anxiety can bring about other with GAD, it’s very possible symptoms in your body that over time, that most of them are taking a medication wear your adrenals out, and lead to severe that induces anxiety. Below I list some of the insomnia, depression and high blood pres- worst possible offenders (you are going to sure. Stress can also cause ulcers. be stunned). If you take any of these, speak There’s a difference between an anxiety or panic attack and generalized anxiety disorder, or GAD. The difference is that one (the attack) is finite and quick, while the other is constant. GAD sufferers often expect the worst when there’s no real reason for concern, or they may fret about health, money, family or work issues. When you find that these intrusive

Prevent falls From page 6 her doctor or a physical therapist about getting her fit for a cane or walker. Also, to help ensure your mom’s safety, and provide you some peace of mind, get her a medical alert device. Send your questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org.

to your doctor, because you will need to find a suitable alternative, or follow very careful instructions to taper off from these drugs. Stopping suddenly could be a disaster. Here goes: Tranquilizers. Shocker, isn’t it? The medicine you may be taking to relax can actually lead to anxiety and panic attacks! According to a 1995 study, in almost half the patients seeking advice for anxiety, panic and phobias, the cause was either alcohol or benzodiazepine drugs like clonazepam, alprazolam, lorazepam and others. The mechanism is complicated, but it’s due to a rebound effect. Getting off these drugs can be a nightmare, so I’d say don’t even start with them. Allergy medicines. It’s from the pseudoephedrine, which is a decongestant. This is also a stimulant and can cause you to feel anxious.

Sleeping medicine. It’s hard to believe, but these drugs don’t put you into a restful, natural sleep. Oftentimes, they steal your high-quality REM sleep. So by using them, over time you actually become sleep-deprived. Anxiety sets in. Asthma inhalers. The albuterol in these medications is the offender. It’s great to help open up breathing passageways, but it causes a person to feel stressed and hyperactive. For a more comprehensive list of medication categories that spark anxiety, sign up for my free newsletter at suzycohen.com. This information is opinion only. It is not intended to treat, cure or diagnose your condition. Consult with your doctor before using any new drug or supplement. 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.

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NOVEMBER 2016 — BALTIMORE BEACON

Start colon cancer screening by age 50 Dear Mayo Clinic: Is a colonoscopy still recommended for everyone when they turn 50? Are there other options? I am 54 and have no health issues and no family history of colon cancer, so have not yet been screened. Answer: The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends that everyone between the ages of 50 and 75 be screened on a regular basis for colon cancer. Several options are available for that screening, including colonoscopy. Colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States. Studies have shown, however, that early detection and treatment significantly raise the likelihood that colon cancer can be

cured. Research has also found there to be clear benefits for everyone to start screening for colon cancer no later than age 50. Some people at higher risk may need to begin screening sooner. Colonoscopy is an effective, proven method for detecting colon cancer in its early stages, as well as for identifying and removing precancerous polyps. During a colonoscopy exam, a long, flexible tube, called a colonoscope, is inserted into the rectum. A tiny video camera at the tip of the tube allows the doctor to detect changes or abnormalities inside the entire colon. A colonoscopy procedure typically takes about 20 to 30 minutes. If no abnormalities are found, and if you don’t have an in-

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creased risk of colon cancer, then your next colonoscopy can be in 10 years. If polyps are found and removed, or you are at risk, you will be told to repeat the procedure sooner.

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

Stool tests If you choose to have a flexible sigmoidoscopy rather than a colonoscopy, then it may be beneficial for you to also have another colon cancer screening test called a fecal immunochemical test, or FIT, every year. This is a lab test that checks stool samples for hidden blood. When combined with an annual FIT, flexible sigmoidoscopy is generally repeated every 10 years, although you may need

it more often than that, depending on your situation. Another alternative for some people is to get only a FIT test or a similar stool test, called the fecal occult blood test, or FOBT, every year. If these tests reveal blood in the stool, a colonoscopy should be performed to try and determine the bleeding source. FIT and FOBT require no bowel cleansing or sedation, and stool sample collection is usually done at home. Additional colon cancer screening tests include CT colonography, sometimes called virtual colonoscopy, as well as a stool test that looks for DNA changes in the stool. These tests are also less invasive than colonoscopy or flexible sigmoidoscopy, although a bowel cleansing is still necessary for the CT colonography. Stool DNA testing has been less extensively investigated compared to some other colon cancer screening tests, particularly with respect to the extent of follow-up needed in the case of a positive test result. At your age, you need to be screened for colon cancer. Make an appointment to see your doctor and review your options. Based on your medical history, along with other possible risk factors, the two of you can decide on the screening method and the frequency of screening that are right for you. — Lisa Boardman, M.D., Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Mayo Clinic Q & A is an educational resource and doesn’t replace regular medical care. E-mail a question to MayoClinicQ&A @mayo.edu. For more information, visit www.mayoclinic.org.

Tell them you saw it in the Beacon!

BALTIMORE BEACON — NOVEMBER 2016

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Fitness & Health

Medicare open enrollment thru Dec. 7 people who qualify for Extra Help are no more than $2.95 for each generic drug and $7.40 for each brand-name drug. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services estimates that more than 2 million people with Medicare may be eligible for Extra Help, but aren’t currently enrolled to take advantage of these savings. To qualify, you must make less than $17,655 a year (or $23,895 for married couples). Even if your annual income is higher, you may still qualify for some extra help. Your resources must also be limited to $13,640 (or $27,250 for married couples). Resources include bank accounts, stocks and bonds, but not your house or car. A recent law changed how your income and assets are counted: • Life insurance policies don’t count as a resource. • Any help you get from relatives, friends and others to pay for household expenses — like food, mortgage, rent, heating fuel or gas, electricity, water and property taxes — doesn’t count as income. Even if you were previously turned down for Extra Help due to income or resource levels, you should reapply. If you qualify, you’ll get help paying for Medicare prescription drug coverage premiums, copayments and deductibles. It’s easy and free to apply for “Extra Help.” You, a family member, trusted counselor, or caregiver can apply online at https://secure.ssa.gov/i1020/start, or call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213. TTY users should call 1-800-325-0778. 4. Shop for plans that meet your needs and fit your budget. Use Medicare’s plan finder tool at www.Medicare.gov/find-a-plan to see what other plans are offered in your area. A new plan may cost less, cover your specific

drugs, and include providers you want, like your doctor or pharmacy. If you find that your current coverage still meets your needs, then you’re done. Remember, during Medicare Open Enrollment, you can decide to stay in Original Medicare or join a Medicare Advantage Plan. If you’re already in a Medicare Advantage Plan, you can switch back to Original Medicare. 5. Check your plan’s star rating before you enroll.

The Medicare Plan Finder has been updated with the 2016 Star Ratings for Medicare health and prescription drug plans. Plans are given an overall quality rating on a 1 to 5 star scale — with 1 star representing poor performance and 5 stars representing excellent performance. Use the Star Ratings to compare the quality of health and drug plans being offered. For more information, call 1-800See MEDICARE, page 10

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It’s time for your annual checkup — of your Medicare plan. Medicare’s annual open enrollment period started Oct. 15 and runs through Dec. 7. This is the time of year you can make changes to your plans. Review your current Medicare Part D Prescription Drug and, if you have it, your Medicare Part C Advantage Plan coverage to see if you can lower your costs or find a plan that better suits your needs. Even if you’re happy with your current coverage, you might find something that’s a better fit. If you miss the open enrollment deadline, then you’ll most likely have to wait a full year before you can make changes to your plan. Here are five important things to do this month: 1. Review your plan notice. Be sure to read any notices from your Medicare plan about changes for 2017, especially your “Annual Notice of Change” letter. Look at your plan’s information to make sure your drugs are still covered and your doctors are still in network. 2. Think about what matters most to you. Medicare health and drug plans change each year, and so can your health needs. Do you need a new primary care doctor? Does your network include the specialist you want for an upcoming surgery? Is your new medication covered by your current plan? Does another plan offer the same value at a lower cost? Take stock of your health status and determine if you need to make a change. 3. Find out if you qualify for help paying for your Medicare. If you have limited income and resources, you may qualify for the Extra Help program to pay for some healthcare and prescription drug costs. Drug costs this year for most

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NOVEMBER 2016 — BALTIMORE BEACON

Answers to your “weighty” questions By Dr. Howard LeWine Q: I need to lose a few pounds and also want to improve my eating habits. I read that foods with a lower glycemic index are better for you. Is it really that important? A: Not so long ago, reducing fat was promoted as the healthy way to lose weight. We now know that’s not the case. Restricting carbohydrates, especially those with a high glycemic index, is a much better approach. The glycemic index is a number that indicates how rapidly the body digests a particular type of food and converts it into blood sugar (glucose). When you eat a high-glycemic food, the sugar in that food becomes readily available as soon as it passes through the stom-

ach to the intestines. You may feel a sudden surge of energy as sugar (in the form of glucose) pours into your blood. Your body will react to the glucose elevation by producing more insulin. However, the insulin rush will deplete that blood glucose within the next couple of hours. You may even feel tired and shaky if your glucose level drops too low too quickly. And you’ll probably crave a high-glycemic snack, which certainly won’t help with weight loss. In contrast, low-glycemic foods require more processing time in the digestive system, as enzymes work to separate the sugar from other components. Glucose flows slowly into the bloodstream, and insulin is released gradually, too. As a result, you remain

We specialize in short-term rehabilitation and long-term relationships. Mary came to ManorCare Health Service – Woodbridge Valley debilitated from an infection. Mary couldn’t even get out of bed! She told us ‘Ididn’t didn’tknow know what to expect. I’ve never been hospitalized.’

“Everyone was so wonderful. I’m glad I came here.” - Mary

After our rehab team worked with Mary, she was up on her own two feet, managing all of her own needs and, in no time, was discharged and back to her regular routine. As an added bonus, ManorCare’s exercise regimen jump-started a weight loss which helped her to resolve her diabetes. Mary says, “Thanks to ManorCare, I feel great!”

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sated longer and are less likely to overeat. Even if you would rather not take the time to look up the glycemic index of everything on your plate, you can still benefit from the driving force behind the glycemic index. Simply avoid highly processed foods, especially those with lots of concentrated sugars and refined starches — for example, white flour, packaged cereals and instant oatmeal. Instead, choose foods with a low glycemic index, since they are likely to contain few sugars. And when they do contain sugars, the sugars are part of the natural food structure and aren’t as readily available. So they enter the blood stream slowly. Q: I recently met my new doctor. He was worried about my waist size. I’ve always had a big belly, but I have never been overweight. What’s more important: body weight or waist size? A: That’s terrific that your doctor focused on your waist size. Even though you are not overweight, having a large belly raises your risk of developing heart disease. Mounting evidence suggests that waist circumference is a better gauge of heart disease risk than body mass index (BMI). A big belly — what doctors call central or

abdominal obesity — signals the presence of visceral fat. It’s the fat that surrounds your internal organs. In general, as your waistline increases, so does your visceral fat. Visceral fat is metabolically active, which means it produces hormones and other factors that promote inflammation. Inflammation plays a key role in the accumulation of cholesterol-laden plaque inside the arteries, which may explain the link between visceral fat and cardiovascular problems. Calculating your waist-to-hip ratio is an easy way to find out if you may have too much visceral fat. Use a tape measure to get a reading on your waist size. Exhale and wrap the tape around your bare abdomen just above your navel (belly button). Don’t suck in your gut or pull the tape tight enough to squeeze the area. Next put the tape measure around the widest part of your buttocks. Keep the tape measure level. Now divide your waist size by your hip size to calculate your waist-tohip ratio. Central obesity is defined as having a waist-to-hip ratio of greater than 1.0 for men or greater than 0.9 for women.

Medicare

Learn the facts, discuss options, and get help with completing forms and making online comparisons. Many counties require advance appointments during open enrollment, so call early, and look for opportunities for group community presentations. Contact the SHIP office for your county: Anne Arundel County: (410) 222-4464 Baltimore City: (410) 396-2273 Baltimore County: (410) 887-2059 Howard County: (410) 313-7392 — Courtesy of the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services

From page 9 MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY users should call 1-877-486-2048. Help is available 24 hours a day, including weekends. Language support in Spanish is offered. You can get assistance with your decision through the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP). There is a SHIP located within your local Area Agency on Aging in every county. Trained counselors are available to provide free, unbiased one-on-one assistance.

See QUESTIONS, page 11

BALTIMORE BEACON — NOVEMBER 2016

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Fitness & Health

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

Questions From page 10 Certain people are more likely to accumulate visceral fat, which is governed by genetic, ethnic and gender differences. For example, natives of India and South Asia have a higher-than-average propensity for abdominal obesity. And white men and black women tend to accumulate more visceral fat

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

Homemade Energy Bars Makes: 12 bars, 167 calories each Active time: 15 minutes Total time: 1 1/4 hours 1 cup lightly salted dry-roasted peanuts, coarsely chopped 1/2 cup crispy brown rice cereal 1/2 cup old-fashioned or quick-cooking rolled oats compared with black men and white women. Fortunately, with diet and exercise we tend to lose visceral fat first, before fat underneath our skin. That’s why shedding as little as 7 percent of your excess weight helps lower heart disease risk: the most dangerous fat goes first. © 2016 President and Fellows of Harvard College. All Rights Reserved. Distributed By Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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

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

Fitness & Health | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

NOVEMBER 2016 — BALTIMORE BEACON

When keeping a secret creates a dilemma Dear Solutions: My daughter is getting married. I just found out that she’s pregnant but doesn’t want that to be known because she doesn’t want people to think that’s the reason for the marriage. Thus, she’s sworn me to secrecy. I want her to have a lovely wedding, but I’m now a widow and a little stressed financially. My sister and her husband, who are thrilled that she’s getting married and want her to have a great wedding, insist on helping financially with my part.

My sister and I have always been very close and have always confided in each other. I’m conflicted about what to tell her, because I wouldn’t want my brother-in-law to know this beforehand, and I don’t want her to be angry afterward. But I promised my daughter to keep mum. So I’m not sure how to handle this. What do you suggest? — Lena Dear Lena: First of all, being pregnant and deciding

to get married is usually a good and wel- doing something about them. come decision. So everyone will, hopefully, As for your friend — take control. She be happy about the wedding. may be doing this out of boreNo matter how close you dom, as well as people’s love are to your sister, you didn’t of talking about themselves. give birth to her. But you did Instead of just being a listento your daughter, and your ober, plan things that you can do ligation is to keep her secret. together and talk about afterYou are honoring your sisward. ter’s sincerity by not assuming As for the dinner crowd that she and her husband would who become each other’s docwithdraw their help if they tors — take control there, too. knew about the pregnancy. Tell At the beginning of the dinner your sister afterward about SOLUTIONS announce that each person your promise to your daughter, By Helen Oxenberg, has exactly five minutes to reand let’s hope everyone will be MSW, ACSW port on his/her latest medical happy — including that baby! Dear Solutions: I don’t know how to talk to a person I call “a whiner.” This is an old friend. When we worked together, there wasn’t time for complaints and grumbling. It’s true some sad things have happened to her — as to all of us as we grow older. There’s also the dinner people we go out with and who just keep talking about their illnesses, etc. How to reply without nastiness? — Cathy Dear Cathy: Turn the conversation to the news or the election. That should cheer everyone up! Why do they do this complaining? Because it makes them feel that they’re not ignoring their problems, but as if they’re

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

BEACON BITS

Nov. 1

PRACTICAL TIPS FOR LIVING WITH DIABETES

November is Diabetes Month. Giant Foods’ nutritionist and a trained diabetes care pharmacist present practical ways to manage your diabetes and pre-diabetes at the Essex branch of the Baltimore County library on Tuesday, Nov. 1, at 2 p.m. Learn how to count carbs, read food labels, and prevent long-term complications. Register at www.bcpl.info or call (410) 887-0295.

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Fitness & Health

BALTIMORE BEACON — NOVEMBER 2016

Health Studies Page

THE PLACE TO LOOK FOR INFORMATION ON AREA CLINICAL TRIALS

Study investigates new drug for fatty liver By Carol Sorgen Intercept Pharmaceuticals is studying the effect of the investigational drug called obeticholic acid (also known as OCA or INT-747) on the overall health and quality of life of patients with a kind of fatty liver disease called nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, also known as NASH. NASH is estimated to affect over 12 percent of the US adult population. It occurs when fat builds up in the liver and causes inflammation. Risk factors for NASH include obesity, type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance, high cholesterol and high blood pressure. NASH is part of a group of conditions called nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). If left unchecked, over time NASH can lead to severe complications, including liver scarring, cirrhosis, liver failure, liver cancer and even death. NASH is now the second most common reason for the need for liver transplant, and by 2020 could be the leading cause. To prevent or slow disease progression, physicians commonly recommend lifestyle changes, including diet and exercise. Currently, there are no drug thera-

pies approved for the treatment of NASH. Hence the need for this study.

A potential therapy The investigational drug OCA is a manmade version of a “bile acid,” a compound made in the liver. Bile acids are used by the body to help with digestion, and have additional effects on liver function. The purpose of this study is to find out how safe and effective OCA may be in delaying specific medical conditions or health-related issues that can occur in patients who have NASH or evidence of liver fibrosis (damaged and scarred liver tissue). In this study, eligible NASH participants will be assigned to receive the investigational drug OCA or a placebo as a once-aday pill. The study is double blind, meaning treatment will be assigned randomly, with two-thirds of the participants assigned to OCA (either 10 mg. or 25 mg.) and the remaining participants to a placebo. Throughout the study, neither the particiSee FATTY LIVER, page 15

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NOVEMBER 2016 — BALTIMORE BEACON

The truth about tequila and bone health By Dr. Robert H. Shmerling, “Tequila could reverse osteoporosis!” “Drinking tequila is good for your bones!” “Have a third margarita — because tequi-

la’s great for your bones!” Talk about misleading headlines! These are prime examples. It’s true that a newly published study

Diabetes Research Study 50-80 year old men & women with Type 2 Diabetes are needed to participate in an exercise research study at the University of Maryland/Baltimore VA Medical Center. Parking and compensation for your time will be provided. Call 410-605-7179. Mention code: EPC-DM.

found that a substance in tequila — called agave tequilana, or tequila agave — might help maintain bone health. And that it could lead to new treatments for osteoporosis. But consider the details: • The study was performed on mice who had had their ovaries removed. This is by no means a perfect model for human osteoporosis. • The mice were treated with a type of agave tequilana — not tequila — and for only eight weeks. • When compared with untreated mice, the treated mice were found to have larger thigh bones, and samples of their thigh bones contained more of a protein linked with bone growth (called osteocalcin). However, there was no long-term treatment with agave tequilana beyond the initial eight weeks, nor was there any assessment of whether this treatment would prevent osteoporosis. The researchers suggested that sugars in the agave tequilana interacted with bacteria in the intestinal tracts of the mice to encourage absorption of minerals needed to build bones. So, a “healthy intestinal microbiome” may also be required for this approach to work.

What’s the catch? I think this new research is intriguing. It’s entirely possible that certain types of agave (a plant that produces a honey-like nectar) could turn out to help people maintain or improve bone health. And considering the health impacts of osteoporosis — hip fractures, loss of mobility, and complications that can lead to death in some cases — such an advance can’t come too soon. But any study in animals has to be con-

sidered highly preliminary. It’s simply unknown whether the results of this study apply to humans. In addition, the animals did not drink tequila. They were treated with a chemical found in tequila. So, the suggestion that we (humans) might improve our bone health by drinking margaritas is, in my view, just a way to grab attention. Even if we could fast forward a few years and confirm that agave tequilana improves human bone health, it’s unlikely that the treatment would be in the form of tequila. Unfortunately, many people don’t read past the headlines. This is one time when that would be hazardous. The health impact of the alcohol in tequila — and the sugar content of agave — are just two of several “downsides” that could come about if you were worried about your bone health and took the headlines too literally.

Haven’t we been here before? This new study on “tequila for osteoporosis” reminds me of past studies touting the health benefits of chocolate, wine or coffee. The same week as the tequila story broke, other researchers reported that certain substances in red wine and coffee could improve cardiovascular health by changing the intestinal bacteria. Again, the study was in mice. Claims that some of our favorite foods and drinks are actually good for us are not new. Some claims are better supported than others. For example, the evidence that coffee consumption may reduce the incidence of certain types of liver disease in humans is compelling. Still, it’s relatively rare that doctors actually “prescribe” these foods to prevent or See TEQUILA, page 15

BALTIMORE BEACON — NOVEMBER 2016

Fatty liver From page 13 pants nor the doctors will know which patients receive which pill. All participants will continue to receive OCA or a placebo until the study is completed in approximately six years. During this time, participants will be evaluated by the study team after the first month of treatment and once every three months through month 18. Following month 18, participants will be evaluated every six months for the rest of the time they are in the study.

Who is eligible to participate? More than 2,000 people are being re-

Tequila From page 14 treat disease. Perhaps they should. But enthusiasm for doing so is tempered by concerns that excessive consumption may cause other, unhealthy effects. We’ll need much more research before tequila, or anything in it, can be recommended for bone health or any other health concern. Until then, I hope medical

cruited worldwide to participate in this study. You may be eligible to participate if you have been diagnosed with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and have some evidence of liver fibrosis. Participants must be between 18 and 85 years of age. You cannot have been drinking more than two drinks a day (for females) or four drinks a day (for males) for a period of more than three consecutive months within the last year. You also cannot have had ileal resection or bariatric surgery within the last five years or during the study. There are two study sites recruiting volunteers in Baltimore. For information or to volunteer, contact Sung Cho at Mercy Medical Center, (410) 576-5389 or

writers — and readers — will be careful in how they interpret preliminary research. It’s one thing to hope that what you like is also good for you. It’s quite another for that to be anything more than wishful thinking. Robert H. Shmerling, M.D., is a faculty editor at Harvard Health Publications. © 2016. President and Fellows of Harvard College. All Rights Reserved. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Fitness & Health

scho@mdmercy.com; or Seema Shahi at Digestive Disease Associates in Catonsville, (410) 737-0053 or s.shahi@ddamd.com. Members of the study teams will meet with you to discuss the study, review your medical and NASH history, and perform screening tests to determine if you are eli-

gible to participate. For further details about the NASH study, including a full list of requirements to enter the study, visit www.clinicaltrials.gov, Identifier NCT02548351. To locate study centers outside the Baltimore area, use the site locator at www.nash-study.

NOVEMBER 2016 — BALTIMORE BEACON

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Money Law &

INVEST LIKE WARREN BUFFETT At a time when stocks are expensive and interest rates low, Buffett holds Verizon, Sanofi and General Motors for both dividends and value WORK SEEKER: KNOW THYSELF How to describe your skills — from communicating effectively to showing initiative — so they can help you get the job you want

Preferred stocks yielding 6 percent plus By Daren Fonda An aura of income is all it takes to lure investors to dividend-paying stocks these days. But if payouts on common stocks don’t hold much appeal to you, consider a company’s preferred shares. Even with their prices hitting 52-week highs, many high-quality preferreds still yield 5 percent or more. These stocks may not have much potential for gains after running up in price this year. But they should still generate more income than many other yield-oriented investments, including government bonds (1.5 percent for 10-year Treasuries), property-owning real estate investment trusts (an average of 3.6 percent) and utilities (3.4 percent). Preferreds straddle the gap between stocks and bonds. Like stocks, they trade on exchanges. And like bonds, they make regular, though fixed, payments to investors. But bonds pay interest, while preferreds pay dividends, typically every three months. Many preferreds pay so-called qualified dividend, which can be a tax benefit: The top federal tax rate on those payouts is 15 percent, compared with a top rate of 43.4 percent on interest income.

Some risks Companies typically issue preferreds at $25 per share. Prices may drift above or below that level, typically moving up as interest rates fall and moving down when rates rise. Critically, companies can “call,” or redeem, their preferred stock at $25 per share at a specified date in the future or, in some cases, at any time. So paying close to $25 for a preferred stock gives you some assurance that if a company does redeem the stock, you won’t lose much of your initial investment. But be careful not to buy a preferred well above $25 a few months before its initial call date. Doing so could saddle you with losses, even after accounting for dividend income. Companies may also have some leeway to suspend dividend payments. If a preferred is “cumulative,” the firm must eventually shell out any dividends it didn’t pay. But many preferreds are “non-cumulative:” If a company runs into financial trouble and suspends payments, it isn’t required to make good on the missed disbursements at a later date. Preferreds have other risks, too. They aren’t as stable as high-quality corporate

bonds, and that can sting in the event of a market panic. In 2008, for instance, iShares U.S. Preferred Stock (symbol PFF, $38.87, yield 5.04 percent), an exchange-traded fund, posted a total return of -24 percent, after accounting for dividend payments. (Prices and yields are as of Oct. 14.) Today’s high prices have pushed yields down, providing less of a safety net if the market takes a tumble. In such a pricey environment, it’s important to stick with high-quality preferreds, which are likely to hold up better than lower-quality preferreds during a selloff, said Michael Greco, chief investment officer of GCI Financial Group, a money-management firm. Because preferred dividends are fixed, the stocks would also slump if interest rates were to rise. A preferred trading at $27, for instance, could drop to $22 if the yield on the benchmark 10-year Treasury bond were to climb to 2.5 percent. However, most experts don’t see a big rise in bond yields anytime soon. On the other hand, interest rates could spike if inflation becomes more of a concern down the road.

Stocks to consider For access to a diverse package of stocks, consider the iShares preferred ETF. It holds more than 280 preferreds issued mainly by banks, real estate firms and insurance companies. Most of these firms carry investment-grade ratings, although the ETF does own some with lower ratings. Its annual expense ratio is 0.47 percent. For a bit more income, consider buying one or more of the four preferreds described below. Note that ticker symbols for these stocks aren’t consistent across brokerage firms and financial websites. If you can’t find a symbol, visit www.quantumonline.com, a free site where you can look up preferred share classes by entering the issuer’s name. AmTrust Financial Services, 7.75 percent Dep Shares Non-Cumulative Preferred Series E (AFSI.E, $26.35, 7.35 percent) AmTrust specializes in small-business insurance, selling coverage for workers’ compensation, extended warranties and See PREFERRED STOCKS, page 19

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BALTIMORE BEACON — NOVEMBER 2016

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

Johnson & Johnson Johnson & Johnson (JNJ) owns popular brands like Motrin, Tylenol, Benadryl, Band-Aid and Listerine. The dividend stock currently yields 2.6 percent after an incredible 54 consecutive years of dividend hikes. JNJ stock issued its most recent dividend hike in May, when its quarterly payment climbed from $0.75 to $0.80. In the last 50 years, the S&P 500 has produced a total return of 1,880 percent. In that same time, JNJ’s total return is a staggering 4,800 percent. In recent years, the dividend stock has

shown no signs of slowing down. JNJ’s total return in the last decade is 94 percent, significantly greater than the S&P 500’s return of 70 percent.

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

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

3M Co. 3M Co. (MMM) was founded 114 years ago, and it has upped its dividend payment

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for each of the last 58 years. MMM recently upped its dividend from $1.025 to $1.11 in February. The stock currently yields 2.5 percent. In the past 50 years, MMM stock has produced a total return of 1,760 percent. Even after that impressive run, MMM is one of the top dividend stocks in the market in 2016, up 18 percent year-to-date.

Procter & Gamble Co. All of the stocks mentioned above have impressive histories of dividend hikes. However, Procter & Gamble Co. (PG) is the only stock among the group that currently has a streak of 60 consecutive years of dividend hikes.

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

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

Verizon Communications Inc. VZ has been one of the top performing dividend stocks in the market in 2016, gaining 16 percent on the year. Yet even after those gains, VZ still pays a generous 4.2 percent dividend. Warren Buffett often looks to invest in companies that have a durable competitive advantage in their market. VZ has the largest share of the U.S. mobile carrier market, and it’s not likely to lose its top spot anytime soon. The wireless carrier business has an extremely high barrier to entry that limits outside competition, which is certainly reassuring for long-term investors. And I’m fairly certain this whole cell phone trend isn’t going away anytime soon. Despite its dominant position in a massive, stable market, VZ management isn’t content. In fact, the company recently made headlines for its proposed $4.8 billion acquisition of Yahoo! Inc. (YHOO)

(though recent Yahoo disclosures are raising doubts about whether the deal with go through as structured). VZ is hoping that its YHOO acquisition will play a crucial role in its aggressive mobile video initiative, which could be a major growth driver in the future. Finally, in addition to all these positives and that huge 4.2 percent yield, VZ stock is still a solid value at a forward price-to-earnings ratio of only 13.3.

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

nately, dividend stock investors now have the chance to scoop up SNY stock 24 percent cheaper than it was a year ago.

General Motors Co. There is no question that when it comes to Warren Buffett dividend stocks, GM is the top pick in terms of both value and yield. GM stock currently yields an incredible 4.8 percent. Yet it somehow trades at a minuscule forward P/E ratio of only 5.5. Fresh off huge Q2 earnings and revenue beats, GM stock is still somehow lagging the market and is down 6.4 percent in 2016. The market seems to have plenty of fears when it comes to GM. Whether it be the rise of Tesla Motors Inc. (TSLA), the possibility of an auto lending bubble, GM’s past financial struggles or all of the above, investors don’t seem to trust the stock. This article is by Aaron Levitt of InvestorPlace. As of this writing, he did not hold a position in any of the aforementioned securities. Values quoted are as of 8/23/16. All contents © 2016 the Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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SIGNS OF SCAMS

Here are some signs of a scam: If you are asked to send a small amount of money to win big money. If you are asked to wire money to someone you do not know. If it sounds too good to be true! For more information on detecting scams, contact Maryland Access Point (MAP) of Baltimore County at (410) 887-2594.

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ATTN: WORKERS WHO ARE CAREGIVERS

The Family and Medical Leave act (FMLA) entitles eligible employees of covered employers to take unpaid, job-protected leave for specified family and medical reasons. To learn more about the FMLA, visit the Department of Labor’s website, www.dol.gov/whd/FMLA or call 1-866-487-9253.

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BALTIMORE BEACON — NOVEMBER 2016

Preferred stocks From page 16 other types of property and casualty insurance. Revenues should hit $4.7 billion this year, up from $4 billion in 2015, according to Wall Street estimates. Analysts see the firm booking profits of $470 million in 2016. The company earns a solid A rating, moreover, from A.M. Best, a firm that evaluates the financial health of insurance providers. AmTrust’s preferred looks attractive for its above-average yield and secure payout, said Greco. The firm paid $11.6 million in preferred dividends in the second quarter of 2016, well below its profits of $135 million. Shares aren’t callable until March 2021, and the dividends qualify for the 15 percent tax treatment. However, they aren’t cumulative. Citigroup, Inc., 8.125 percent Dep Shares Series AA Non-cumulative Preferred (C.P, $28.62, 7.1 percent) After suffering a near-death experience

during the Great Recession, Citigroup now appears to be on much sounder footing. The giant bank, which holds more than $2.1 trillion in assets, recently passed its annual Federal Reserve “stress test,” winning permission to more than triple its common stock dividend and buy back up to $8.6 billion in shares over the next year. Analysts expect the firm to report $21 billion in profits in 2016 on revenues of $69.9 billion. Citi’s improving finances bode well for its preferred stock. Although the shares trade well above par value, they still offer a generous yield. Dividends qualify for the 15 percent tax treatment. However, payments aren’t cumulative, and Citi can redeem the stock in February 2018. JPMorgan Chase & Co., 6.70 percent Dep Shares Non-Cumulative Preferred, Series T (JPM.B, $27.60, yield 6.0 percent) The largest bank in the U.S., with assets of more than $2.4 trillion, JPMorgan runs a massive and sprawling financial busi-

ness. Its balance sheet and capital levels have improved sharply since the financial crisis, and it’s now soundly profitable. Analysts forecast $20.6 billion in earnings this year on revenues of $96.2 billion. JPMorgan issues many classes of preferred stock. But the recently issued Series T looks like one of the most compelling now. Dividends qualify for the 15 percent tax rate, but they aren’t cumulative, and the bank can redeem the stock in March 2019. KKR & Co. 6.50 percent Series B Non-Cumulative Preferred (KKR.B, $26.93, 6.2 percent) KKR owns more than $30 billion in investments, ranging from private equity to ownership stakes in publicly traded firms, such as HCA Holdings (HCA), Walgreens Boots Alliance (WBA) and U.S. Foods

Holdings (USFD). KKR also generates income from hedge funds and other investments. Bank of America Merrill Lynch rates KKR’s common stock a “buy,” seeing improvements in the business and a rising level of fee-based income as the firm diversifies its revenue streams. KKR’s profits can still be erratic. But its preferred dividends look solid. Analysts expect KKR to earn $394 million this year, providing ample coverage for its payout of $15.8 million on preferred shares. The dividends aren’t cumulative, and they don’t qualify for the 15 percent tax rate. But KKR can’t redeem the shares until September 2021. All contents © 2016 the Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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CHOOSE YOUR VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY

Visit www.volunteercentral.net to search its database of hundreds of volunteer opportunities throughout Central Maryland to match your interests, time and talent to the volunteer needs in the community. If you need any assistance as you search the website, or if you are interested in attending one of its many events, call (410) 366-6030 or email info@businessvolunteersmd.org.

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FRANCISCAN CENTER NEEDS VOLUNTEERS

The Franciscan Center provides emergency assistance and services for those in need on an ongoing basis. Volunteers are needs year-round to help with the daily lunch program, stock the food pantry, distribute clothing, assist in the office, and serve at food distribution events; volunteers are also needed to help serve a Thanksgiving meal. For more information, call (410) 467-5340 or visit www.fcbmore.org.

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Don’t sell yourself short on the job hunt as an employee, bring to an organization. Transferable skills are skills that you can take with you from one situation to another, from one job to another. These are portable proficiencies. Typically, transferable skills are soft skills — like communicating effectively, showing initiative, creativity — to name a few. These abilities are valuable across all industries. There are hundreds of transferable skills. In addition to experiences at work,

Question: If I don’t have every qualification listed for a particular job opening, should I let it go, or apply anyway? Answer: You may think that a lack of direct experience will stop you from getting a job, but that’s not always the case. Time and time again, employers look for people who can demonstrate strong transferable skills. Often, employers are interested in what kind of person you are — what values you,

adult life teaches us many things, such as that you can name and cite specific (not organizing people, keeping records, flexi- generic) examples of how and when each of your transferable skills was bility when carrying out used. Prospective employers plans. You have untold numdon’t accept blanket statebers of transferable skills. ments; they want proof. A significant part of what Here’s a plan to get started: makes you different and mar• Think of a time when ketable — your “brand” — something you did turned out are your transferable skills. well. (Note: Even small victo(See “On the job search? How ries from your childhood to market yourself,” in the June could have grown into transBeacon). Regrettably, pinferable skills by now.) pointing these is often chalCAREER COACH • Tell the story surrounding lenging, because they aren’t By Judy Smith this positive development: as obvious as more specific What was going on around you? What job-related skills. problem were you or others facing? What

Define your transferable skills Despite the challenge, it’s important

See JOB SEARCH, page 21

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Nov. 16

INTERFAITH WORKSHOP FOR GRANDPARENTS Navigate life and celebrate holidays with your adult children and

grandchildren who have intermarried at this workshop on Wednesday, Nov. 16, from 7 to 8:30 p.m., at the JCC of Owings Mills, 3506 Gwynnbrook Ave. Register at www.interfaithbaltimore.org. For more information, contact Lara Nicolson at (410) 559-3532 or lnicolson@jcc.org.

We’re growing and need another sales consultant!

This full-time, outside sales position pays a base salary, plus commissions and benefits.

We're looking for a hard-working, positive, assertive, detail-oriented people person. Must be outgoing, love selling and be comfortable with computers.

If you would be excited to call and meet with potential advertisers throughout the Metro area, send your resume and cover letter to Alan Spiegel, Director of Sales, at: Alan@theBeaconNewspapers.com. ,

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BALTIMORE BEACON — NOVEMBER 2016

Job search

• Hosting a get-together in your home involves event planning and organizing.

From page 20 made you think your approach would help? • Describe your role in producing a good outcome. For example: If your church or synagogue needed to raise funds, did you get items donated for a silent auction? If you were on a committee for a special event, did you recruit/train the volunteers needed to make it happen? Specifically, what did you do? • Make notes on your sense of accomplishment. Why were you pleased with the way things turned out? Look closely for skills hidden within these experiences. The words you use to describe them can make a world of difference. For example: • Making purchasing decisions for your home includes budgeting and managing finances. • Getting five things done in one day involves time management.

Letters to editor From page 2 Because healthcare spending in 2015 was slightly lower in your area than we had projected, the medical loss ratio on your plan fell slightly below the minimum. You are receiving a rebate, which is enclosed.” I received a check for $19.49. My daughter remarked that it probably took a lot more money to process this (and other) refunds than to allow it to go into the dollar pool that funds the healthcare provider’s contribution to its subscribers in need of such care. This is but one more example of the Affordable Care Act’s war against all other healthcare subscribers to force them out of the healthcare market. Barbara G. Green Elkridge, Md.

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Narrow the generation gap Yet another consideration: Odds-on, the jobs you apply for now will have you working with the generation labeled, “the millennials.” Indeed, it is likely that your supervisor would be a millennial as well. The differences between your generation and the millennial generation are considerable. They include background and training, individual outlook, personal style and approach to work. Perceived difficulties handling these distinctions can give rise to age bias in the hiring process. As you think about your transferable skills, here are some work-related characteristics that could enhance the interviewer’s perception of a mature applicant: • Energetic: Active, full of life, vigorous, an energetic worker. • Flexible: Manageable, adaptable. • Follows instructions well: Willing to

ask questions (of someone much younger than you) to enhance understanding. • Broad-minded: Being tolerant in thought or opinion. • Works well with others: Fits in easily. • Helpful: Enjoys mentoring and helping people solve their problems. • Keen on continued learning and development. • Loyal: Committed to things/people that mean a lot to you — such as your job/supervisor.

Figuring out transferable skills will go a long way in helping you overcome a shortfall within a list of job requirements. You should showcase these skills in your resume, cover letters, interviews and networking. Each time, you will be offering evidence to convince the employer to offer the job to you. Judy Smith is a registered career coach. Send your job search questions to Smith at smithjudit@gmail.com or visit her website at www.judysmith.solutions.

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MY SISTER’S PLACE SEEKS VOLUNTEERS My Sister’s Place services women and children in need in

Baltimore City. Volunteers are needed to provide casseroles, serve and prepare meals, and assist at the front desk. For more information, call (410) 659-3763 or email volunteermspwc@cc-md.org.

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Any registered voter may vote by absentee ballot by filling out an absentee ballot application for the 2016 Election. It must be mailed or delivered in person to your local Board of Elections to be received no later than Nov. 1.

Nov. 2

LUNCH AND A SHOW IN COLUMBIA

55-and-better condominium homes overlooking a beautiful 30-acre quarry lake. • Elevator-served, secured entrance buildings which provide extra security, peace-of-mind and low-maintenance living • Large, private one-car garages included with each condominium. In addition, a limited number of storage spaces are available for purchase in each building. • Resort-like community amenities including a clubhouse with fitness center and swimming pool, dog park, community garden, and more

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Travel Leisure &

Tourists can visit African wildlife with safari guides-in-training. See story on page 24.

Plenty still to love in the city by the bay

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

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

PHOTO © LEE PIUS

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

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

PHOTO © FREDERIC PROCHASSON

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

Flower power lives on

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

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

of the waffle cones baking at Ben and Jerry’s ice cream store in this neighborhood. A sampling of Ben and Jerry’s flavors: Hazed and Confused, Cherry Garcia, Chocolate Therapy and Low-eco Footprint. In other funky shops, you can buy ruffled 1960s bellbottom jeans or sequined hot pants. There are much-loved stores like Head Rush, Skunk Funk, Liquid Experience and Pipe Dreams, hawking tattoos, body piercing, vintage clothing and antique oddities. For 48 years, new and return customers have loved Decades of Fashion, featuring clothing for men, women and kids, some designed by owner Cicely Hansen. The store is jam-packed with vintage duds, organized by decade from the 1940s to the 1980s, including items like furs, plumed hats and silk stockings. “Fashion repeats itself,” Hansen believes. After all, styles like the dropped waist and a-line skirts of the 1920s (think Downton Abbey) came back in the 1960s. The Loved to Death shop offers Victorian mourning jewelry. People back then snipped a lock of the deceased’s hair to make jewelry. The Haight’s residents’ fondness for their beautiful Victorian houses is eviSee SAN FRANCISCO, page 25

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BALTIMORE BEACON — NOVEMBER 2016

Help care for elephants in Cambodia By Kristi Eaton The trip to the hills of eastern Cambodia had all the makings of a luxurious getaway — delicious fresh fruit fed by hand, a dip in a refreshingly cold watering hole, and a relaxing massage. But I wasn’t receiving these amenities. Elderly elephants were. And I was one of several tourists paying for the privilege of doting on them. At the Mondulkiri Project, it’s not the people who call the shots, but the elephants. Visitors from all over the world come here for the chance to interact with the behemoth creatures by washing them, feeding them, playing with them and, of course, getting selfies with them. One thing that doesn’t happen: riding on the animals’ backs. Named for Cambodia’s most sparsely populated province, the Mondulkiri Project aims to act as a sanctuary for elephants that previously worked for timber companies or as attractions in the tourist hub of Siem Reap, home to the Angkor Wat site. The Mondulkiri Project also seeks to give the local indigenous population, called the Bunong, opportunities for jobs, as well as help in curtailing logging and promoting forest conservation.

The Mondulkiri Project began in 2013, founded by the Tree family, who are not members of the Bunong community but who support the Bunongs with revenue from the Mondulkiri Project. The Tree family offers trekking along with the elephant experiences, and they run Tree Lodge, a bare-bones but comfortable set of bungalows with magnificent views of the Cambodian countryside. During my stay, I joined several other tourists, both solo and group travelers, in cleaning and feeding the elephants. We also got an in-depth explanation of the project, its goals, and why preserving the area is important.

Hanging out with pachyderms Then came the fun part: getting up close and personal with the gigantic mammals. The elephants spend all their time in a protected area of the forest, with local guides watching over them. The elephants were friendly, hungry and eager to interact with us. For the humans, there was a lunch of rice, vegetables, meat and iced coffee. Then an English-speaking Bunong guide led us on an easy trek through the lush jungles as we headed to a chilly watering hole to wash one of the creatures. PHOTO © PETRA CHRISTEN

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

More photo opportunity than actual cleansing, the elephant seemed to enjoy getting his back scratched and didn’t mind the picture-taking. We all had the same post-cleansing goal anyway: a nap.

To learn more Mondulkiri Province is located about five hours by minivan from Cambodia’s capital of Phnom Penh and about 10 hours by minivan from Siem Reap. For further information, see the website

of the Mondulkiri Project at www.mondulkiriproject.org. One day “elephant adventure tour” for $50. Two days, including spending the night in a hammock and a day-long jungle trek, for $75. The Elephant Valley Project, www.elephantvalleyproject.org, offers similar tours and opportunities. One day for $85 ($55 if you spend part of the day volunteering). Two, three and five-day options also available. — AP

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NOVEMBER 2016 — BALTIMORE BEACON

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

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

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

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

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

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“Back in the day, you really got to know the landscape and understand the animals,” Walker said. “Your newspaper was reading the sounds of animals and birds to indicate what was happening in the bush. It was like a chess game, trying to work out where things were.” Today, most game drives have been condensed to one or two days out in the plains. “The idea of safari has been compacted into photos and soundbites,” Walker said. The idea behind the Pyramids of Life tour is “to bring that real-life-connect-the-dots back. We want to teach you to read the plains.” Serian’s Maasai guides know the bush, having grown up here, but they have “differing levels of knowledge.” The training allows them to share what they know with each other and with the guests, and provide an overlay of information about what they’re seeing. “It’s about reconnecting with nature and allowing for the time to take it all in,” Walker said. We also watched as the guides and their trainers developed relationships, sharing information, giggling at mistakes, and patting each other on the shoulder when they learned something new. And we partook in a walking safari to learn the ways of the Maasai. We were shown plants used for healing, others used as deodorant. At one point, they showed us how to make fire with sticks, and how they once hunted with a bow and arrow. “I like being a guide because I can spend time in the bush, showing others my land. You’re an ambassador to them,” said Maasai guide Mark Taga. “On this safari, you get to learn about everything by seeing things happen right in front of you. “We share our knowledge with guests, while learning at the same time. It’s great! I started in the kitchen as a cook, but now here I am, getting to tell others about things I’m interested in, such as birds,” Taga said. “Being a guide makes me so happy,” said another guide, Judy Koya. “I knew when I was a child that I wanted this [she gestures at the surrounding plains] to be my office.” At night, we congregated around a fire, discussing the wonders of the day. “Imagine this was how field trips were conducted when you were a kid in school,” said cosafari guide trainer Clint Schipper. “You’d never want to leave.” As he spoke, a bonfire burned in front of me, a starry sky glittered above, and my mind filled with images of the hippos, crocodiles and cheetah we’d seen that day. The night surrounded us with a cacophony of sounds — insects buzzing, birds calling. Schipper was right: This was the ultimate school field trip, and I didn’t ever want to leave. Pyramids of Life is offered annually for three weeks in March, though guests can sign up for shorter periods. Walker’s tour company also offers camping, safari and fly fishing adventures year round. See http://serian.com/we-call-it-home/masaimara-kenya/serian-the-original/

BALTIMORE BEACON — NOVEMBER 2016

San Francisco From page 22 denced by how meticulously the homes are lovingly painted and restored.

Treats on the waterfront Fisherman’s Wharf is a popular waterside hotspot, especially for local eateries. Boudin Bakery has baked the city’s famous sourdough bread for over 160 years. Customers swizzle clam chowder in sourdough “bowls,” and watch bakers at work from a 30-foot observation deck. The Buena Vista Café serves 1,500 to 2,000 Irish coffees a day, importing onethird of all Irish whisky that enters the U.S. One bartender touted, “We don’t stint on the alcohol.” While on the indulgent track, don’t miss Ghirardelli’s premium chocolate, a city institution since 1852, loved for sweet, chocolaty treats like the sea salt caramel sundae, Painted Ladies and the Earthquake. Take home some individually wrapped squares for those you left behind on this trip. From the shoreline, you can admire the famous Golden Gate Bridge, a structure held together by one million rivets that can withstand 100 mile-per-hour winds. San Francisco is loaded with museums. One of the newest is the Contemporary Jewish Museum, which opened in 2008 to honor the diversity of the Jewish experience. A “non-collecting institution,” the only permanent thing is the architecture, designed by Daniel Libeskind, who believes that buildings should live and breathe. Libeskind created a contemporary extension to a 1907 power station, a design based on Hebrew letters, with a metallic blue exterior skin that changes color depending on the time of day or one’s viewing point. There’s no shortage of entertainment in San Francisco, but you haven’t seen a hat until you take in Club Fugazi’s zany “Beach Blanket Babylon,” a musical spoof of popular culture in which the performers wear gigantic hats as Snow White searches for her Prince Charming, encountering Darth Vader, Vladimir Putin and some of today’s political figures along the way.

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

To subscribe, see page 30.

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

If you go The Visitor Information Center (www.sftravel.com, 415-391-2000) at 900 Market St. has free guides, tour options, maps, event listings, hotel reservations and a multi-lingual staff. Driving here is challenging, but the city’s municipal rail/bus system (the Muni) offers convenient public transit. Of course, San Francisco has the full range of lodging choices. Staying near public transportation is a good practical approach. Consider the Holiday Inn at 50

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Leisure & Travel

8th St. near City Hall. Rates start at $201 a night. See www.hiccsf.com or call (415) 626-6103. Major air carriers fly to and from San

Francisco Airport (SFO). United has a non-stop from Reagan National Airport and several from Dulles International for around $340 round trip in October.

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Learn 100 of the most fascinating and quirky Things to Do in Baltimore on the facing page.

Old habits get new twist in Sister Act

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

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

PHOTO COURTESY OF TOBY’S DINNER THEATRE

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

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

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

Spirited cast Ashley Johnson, who also starred in Toby’s productions of Memphis and The Wiz, lends her powerhouse voice to Deloris — whether she is praising the Lord or looking to escape the confines of the Queen of Angels. Her vocals do just what two of Sister Act’s major anthems ask: “Take Me to Heaven” and “Raise Your Voice.” Her infectious energy infuses the show, from the first scene in a disco with her gold jump-suited backup singers, to the closing flamboyant and sparkling specta-

cle in the church. She gets some help from composer Alan Menken, whose other shows include Beauty and the Beast, Little Shop of Horrors and Newsies, and who collaborated on The Little Mermaid with Sister Act lyricist Glenn Slater. Some of the fun also comes from writers Cherie and Bill Steinkellner, who also lent their comedic talents to TV’s “Cheers.” The cadre of sisters also adds to the glee. There’s young postulate Sister Mary Robert, played with wide-eyed innocence by Theresea Danskey, and Sister Mary See SISTER ACT, page 28

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Local author pens a Baltimore bucket list By Carol Sorgen Judy Colbert, who has lived in Maryland virtually all her life, is also an accom-

PHOTO COURTESY OF JUDY COLBERT

plished travel writer, making her the ideal go-to source for visitors and residents alike who want to know what there is to do and see in Baltimore. That’s just what she does in her recently published book, aptly named, 100 Things to Do in Baltimore Before You Die. The book is part of a series produced by Reedy Press that, so far, also includes Washington, D.C., and Philadelphia. Colbert, who is 75 and lives in Glen Burnie, has authored numerous other travel books including, It Happened in Mar yland, Mar yland and Delaware Off the Beaten Path, Insiders’ Guide to Baltimore and Peaceful Places Washington, D.C. As part of her travel writing ways, Colbert says that she’s always “doing research,” so she already had a head start when she signed on with the publisher to pen this newest

Lifelong Maryland resident Judy Colbert has published a book identifying 100 fascinating and somewhat unsung activities to enjoy in Baltimore — from the American Visionary Art Museum to feeding the sharks at the National Aquarium (if you’re a certified scuba diver!).

installment in its series. To get even more input, though, and hear what other locals had to say, Colbert posted requests for suggestions on Facebook groups such as Baltimore Old Photos, as well as consulting with the Baltimore and Maryland Offices of Tourism.

Locals can learn a lot “The book is half for locals and half for visitors,” said Colbert, saying she wanted to go “beyond what you can find on a website.”

“You may know, for example, about the National Aquarium, but did you know that if you’re a certified scuba diver, you can arrange to feed the sharks?” she said. The slim (144 pages) fun-to-read volume is jammed pack with suggestions divided into categories including food and drink, music and entertainment, sports and recreation, culture and history, shopping and fashion, and festivals and activities by season. See BUCKET LIST, page 29

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Sister Act From page 26 Lazarus, aptly named, on the other end of the age spectrum, who is deftly portrayed by Lynne Sigler. She transitions from stern old-school choral leader to sprightly disco-era choir convert during the show. And speaking of age, unlike many musicals, Toby’s has filled several other roles with agile over-50 actors. These include a no-nonsense Mother Superior who harbors a heart of gold (Lynn Sharp-Spears) and Monsignor O’Hara (Robert John Bie-

Siblings From page 1 was the experience of living with, in essence, three mother figures at home — their own mother, a grandmother and an aunt. When Silverman, now an HR technology consultant, left for college, her sister wasn’t thrilled about being left behind to deal with so many people telling her what to do, and not having Silverman there to act as a “buffer,” or at the very least, commiserate with. Jacobs began visiting Silverman in New York and established an adult relationship that has grown closer through the years. Jacobs, the director of clinical operations at the University of Maryland School of Dentistry, is divorced, but is always included in Silverman’s family activities and

NOVEMBER 2016 — BALTIMORE BEACON

dermann; look for him pulling double duty as the emcee before the show). Another standout is younger cast member Hassani Allen, who gives crooning cop Sweaty Eddie a bashful charm as he woos Deloris and pledges to protect her. And DeCarlo Raspberry, as Deloris’s nefarious boyfriend, has all too few solos that feature his deep, smooth voice. Minimalist scenery rolls on and off the stage in the center of Toby’s (which doubles as the floor where dinner is served before the show). There are a few wooden dining tables and a confession booth. A

table and telephone roll in to serve as the police station. Stained glass windows surround the perimeter of the theater. Co-costume designers Lawrence B. Munsey (who also directs) and Mary Quinn have a field day delving into 1970s styles. Deloris covets a white fox fur like Donna Summer’s (which she gets in the final scene) and jump- and leisure suits abound. The nun’s habits get more flashy as the show goes on, moving from somber black tied with a rope belt, to crimson, to a shimmering, light-catching fashion extravaganza in the finale that is nothing short of heavenly.

Sister Act continues at Toby’s Dinner Theatre through Nov. 13. Ticket prices (which include all-you-can-eat dinner or champagne brunch) are $59 Sunday through Thursday evenings and for Wednesday matinees. Friday evening performances are $60.50 and Saturday evening $62. To buy tickets, call (301) 596-6161 or order online through Ticketmaster at www.ticket master.com/venue/172479. Learn more about the show at www.tobysdinnertheatre.com. The theater is located at 5900 Symphony Woods Rd., Columbia, Md.

even invited to events hosted by her sister’s friends. They socialize together and belong to some of the same organizations. Still, neither hesitates to admit that Silverman remains “the older sister.” “Freddye is the risk-taker of the two of us, and will drag me into things,” said Jacobs, “whether it’s to change jobs, try something new, buy a piece of art, or redo my kitchen.” “I push her a lot,” Silverman agreed. And while Jacobs acknowledges that she often seeks her sister’s advice, Silverman is quick to add, “If she doesn’t, I give it anyway!”

dye,” said Jacobs, observing that her sister “sets clear boundaries with our mother on what she will and will not accept.” The caretaking of parents can be a major stressor between siblings, according to Greif. Old issues resurface — “Mom loved you best!” as the Smothers Brothers’ routine went. And new ones arise as well — relating to how to care for parents, who does what, and even the parents’ estate. For some siblings, the death of their parents can draw them together. For others, their parents were the glue holding them together.

to re-establishing contact. “I don’t resent him (the brother to whom she has not spoken in the past seven years). I’m just protecting myself from further hurt.”

Caring for aging parents Like Ingber and her brothers, Silverman and Jacobs also share care of their mother, who still lives independently but at times needs their assistance. “My mother tolerates more from Fred-

When siblings are estranged Not all sibling relationships are so harmonious. One woman, who prefers to remain anonymous, laments the fact that her relationship with one brother is not particularly close, and with the other, virtually nonexistent. “We haven’t spoken since 2009,” she said. The three siblings had another brother who died as a child. When her two remaining brothers, who were quite a bit older, left home, she became, in effect, an only child. She has reached out to her brothers through the years, but with little success. While she misses having a close sibling relationship, she doesn’t miss the actuality of what it was. “I have wonderful kids and very supportive friends,” she said. “I’ve made a family for myself.” Would she reach out to her brothers again? Not for the time being, she said. “I’m tired of being an afterthought or being ignored,” she said. “I’ve chased a relationship before…why would things be any different now?” Which isn’t to say she wouldn’t be open

Ways to improve relationships Sometimes too much has happened to put a sibling relationship back on track. But if you want to rebuild or strengthen your relationships, here are five tips from Adult Sibling Relationships: Communicate: Share your feelings and talk openly with your siblings, but realize that you also must be willing to listen to what they have to say. Forgive: It’s not always easy (and in some instances it may well be impossible), but to strengthen a relationship, you need to let go of the hurts of the past. Put in the time: Maintaining a sibling relationship takes time and effort. Jobs and family demands may take precedence, but to keep the relationship alive, you must be willing to make the initial effort and then continue the investment to “reignite the relationship and keep it alive.” Try new experiences: Consider trying new experiences together. “New activities help people break out of their old ways of relating and allow them to take a different view of one another,” the authors write. Accept the ambivalence and ambiguity: Sibling relationships are not always easy, but “the interdependence, reliance on, and connection to our siblings last a lifetime,” write Greif and Woolley. “The journey we take with them may not always be easy, but if we know they are riding along with us, we feel safer, the bumps along the way may be smaller, and the ride a lot more fun.”

BEACON BITS

Nov. 5

AUTHOR TALKS @ THE LEWIS

Baltimorean and Salon columnist D. Watkins gives an author talk and book signing of his newest book, The Cook Up: A Crack Rock Memoir, on Saturday, Nov. 5, at 1 p.m. at the Reginald F. Lewis Museum, 830 E. Pratt St. Watkins will talk about his childhood in East Baltimore, dropping out of college, entering his brother’s drug empire, and ultimately escaping from a world of violence. For more information, call (443) 263-1800 or visit www.LewisMuseum.org.

Oct. 29

VISIT THE FIRE MUSEUM OF MARYLAND

Join the Fire Museum of Maryland on Saturday, Oct. 29, from 6 to 8 p.m. for Lantern Night, a unique event for all ages. You’ll see the museum in a whole new light as the museum illuminates the lanterns on its historic fire apparatus. The museum is located at 1301 York Rd., Lutherville. Admission is $12 for seniors. Come in costume and get admitted for half price. For more information, visit www.firemuseummd.org or call (410) 321-7500.

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Arts & Style

BALTIMORE BEACON — NOVEMBER 2016

Bucket list From page 27 Of course, having lived in the area most of her life, Colbert already had some favorites that made her list: the 8 oz. crab cakes at G&M Restaurant in Linthicum Heights, for example. And she considers the American Visionary Art Museum (founder Rebecca Meyerhoff) to be a “treasure.”

Some unsung favorites But Colbert has also found some new favorites in her research. At the top of the list is Herman Heyn, Baltimore’s Street-Corner Astronomer who, at 84 years of age, has set up his telescope at the Thames Street end of Broadway in Fells Point for 29 years, inviting

passersby to “have a look.” (There is no charge, but “hat” contributions are welcomed. Check out his website at www.hermanheyn.com. Call (410) 889-0460 before going down, in case of weather cancellations.) As readers go through the book they will, of course, have their own favorites — some of mine include Vaccaro’s Italian Pastry Shop in Little Italy (I’m devoted to their cannoli!), Cylburn Arboretum (I used to live next door), Geppi’s Entertainment Museum (which we have featured in the Beacon), and Charm City’s very own Christmas-light extravaganza, “Miracle on 34th Street,” in Hampden. By the time I work my way through the entire book, I’m sure I’ll discover others as well. But I need to get started. As Colbert

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4475 Montgomery Road, Ellicott City

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conveniently connect dedicated volunteers with elders in their local communities. For more information, visit www.elderhelpers.org, call (734)-330-2734 or emailhelp@elderhelpers.org.

Fall

DON’T WAIT! CALL TODAY!

at Park Heights Place! Apartments for ages 62 and over www.ParkHeightsPlace.com

Apartments EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

Services & Amenities:

Noble, and on Amazon. Colbert will be appearing at local libraries throughout the area. Her next lecture and book signing is scheduled for Nov. 17, at 6:30 p.m., at the Light Street Branch of the

Into Savings

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

writes in her preface, “...there’s too much to see and do in Baltimore in any one lifetime.” 100 Things To Do in Baltimore Before You Die is available locally at the Ivy Bookshop in Lake Falls Village, at Barnes and

5430 Park Heights Avenue

Senior Apartments LIVE WELL FOR LESS Roland View Towers • One- and Two-Bedroom as well as Efficiencies • Rents from $521-$878* Utilities Included! • 24/7 on-site Maintenance and Reception Desk • Beauty/Barber Shop on premises • Bus Trips and Social Events and many more amenities! • Only 2 blocks from Hampden’s ‘The Avenue’ Spectacular View

First Month’s Rent Free! When you present this coupon upon application.

To schedule a personal tour call

410-889-8255 St Mary’s Roland View Towers 3838/3939 Roland Ave • Baltimore, MD 21211

www.rolandviewtowers.com *All residents must meet specific income guidelines.

Make new friends

NOVEMBER 2016 — BALTIMORE BEACON

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Crossword Puzzle

PUZZLE PAGE

Daily crosswords can be found on our website: www.TheBeaconNewspapers.com Click on Puzzles Plus Prefix 8, Month 10 1

By Stephen Sherr 7

BB1116

34 38 43

50 55

Scrabble answers on p. 29.

28 33

19 21

56 60

57 61

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

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

Answers on page 29.

BALTIMORE BEACON — NOVEMBER 2016

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

Caregivers SHIRLEYANN LOOKING FOR WORK – CNA 30 years experience in hospital and nursing home and private duty. CPR and First Aid. Car is not a problem. For doctor appointments and marketing. Excellent references. Please call ShirleyAnn, 443-360-7815.

Financial Services ACCOUNTING, TAXES, AND BOOKKEEPING, eldercare. CPA 38 years, reasonable rates. Call 410-653-3363.

For Rent/Real Estate

Say you saw it in the Beacon

For Sale DULANEY VALLEY MEMORIAL GARDENS. Field of Honor. 2 lots and 2 vaults. Value $7,900. Must sell. Asking $6,000 O/B for all. Call 443-622-0257.

Home/Handyman Services BORN AGAIN REFINISHING c/o Vernon E. Madairy Sr. Because your antique and fine furniture is an investment. Photographs at www.bornagainrefinishing.com. Furniture refinishing & repairs. All pieces hand stripped. Restorations. Missing pieces hand-carved. Veneer repair and replaced. Upholstery. Kitchen cabinets refinished. Hand-woven natural cane. Cane webbing. Natural rush. Fiber rush. Wood splint. Residential and commercial. Since 1973 (43 years). 410-323-0467. BALTIMORE’S BEST JUNK REMOVAL – Clean Outs: Whole House, Emergency, Attics/Basements. Furniture and Junk Removal, Yard Waste Removal, General Hauling, Construction Debris Removal. Free estimates. 10% Senior Discount. Licensed, Bonded and Insured. Call Jesse, 443-379-HAUL (4285). www.baltimoresbestjunkremoval.com. SANFORD & SON JUNK REMOVAL. Trash + Junk removal, house & estate cleanouts, garage + basement cleanouts. Demolition – Shed, deck fence + pool removal. Licensed + insured. Free estimates over the phone. Call 7 days a week, 7 am to 7 pm. 410-746-5090.

Miscellaneous ISO SEMI-EXPERIENCED SCRABBLE PLAYERS at the Liberty Senior Center, 3525 Resource Dr., Randallstown, MD for friendly competition. 10:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. every Tuesday and Thursday. Questions, call Arnold, 410-367-5643.

Personals

PARKVILLE – Furnished one-bedroom apartment. Living room, kitchen, bath, private entrance and patio. Includes utilities and cable TV. $875 mo. Call 410-668-4116.

ISN’T ATTRACTION INCREDIBLE? Imagine relaxing into strong arms holding you, feeling safe and appreciated, intimate, knowing it’s totally right. Looking for older SBM tall, attractive, fit, emotionally literate, willing to take risks. If this speaks to you, call 410-347-1403.

For Sale

Personals

PARKWOOD CEMETERY – 2 lots including a heart-shaped headstone. Value $10,000. Asking $5,000. Call 410-562-7846.

Q’S STARVING BUSINESS STUDENTS – Latest project for seniors. Move you to your new home, stage & sell your old home, concierge services, dinner out, entertainment, dancing, travel, art classes and more. Business club starting businesses together. By appointment only. Money no object for services. Call R. Davis, 443-379-9064.

EUREKA SURFACE MAX VACUUM – Almost new, $70. Call Ann, 410-371-1345. PRE-LIT WESLEY PINE TREE – White lights, indoor. 9ft. New, $75. Call Ann, 410-371-1345.

TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED Deadlines and Payments: Ad text and payment is due by the 5th of each month. Note: Only ads received and prepaid by the deadline will be included in the next month’s issue. Please type or print your ad carefully. Include a number where you can be reached in the event of a question. Payment is due with ad. We do not accept ads by phone or fax, nor do we accept credit cards. Private Party Text Ads: For individuals seeking to buy or sell particular items, or place a personal ad. Each ad is $10 for 25 words, 25 cents for each additional word. Business Text Ads: For parties engaged in an ongoing business enterprise. Each ad is $25 for 25 words, 50 cents for each additional word. Note: Each real estate listing counts as one business text ad. Send your classified ad with check or money order, payable to the Beacon, to:

The Beacon, Baltimore Classified Dept. P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915-2227 Personal Services

Wanted

Q’S CONCIERGE MAN WILL BRING a bottle of white wine to break the ice. $25/hour walking or bringing treats. Make plans for their week. Transportation for people 1 to 100. “Spirits Runner,” wine or scotch by the case. Call Tony, 443-468-5775.

BUYING VINYL RECORDS from 1950 through 1985. Jazz, Rock-n-Roll, Soul, Rhythm & Blues, Reggae and Disco. 33 1/3 LPs, 45s or 78s, Larger collections of at least 100 items wanted. Please call John, 301-596-6201.

Wanted WE BUY GOLD AND SILVER JEWELRY. Costume too. Gold and silver coins, paper money, military, crocks, old bottles and jars, etc. Call Greg, 717-658-7954. WE BUY STERLING SILVER FLATWARE, tea sets, single pieces of silver, large pieces of silver plate. Attic, basement, garage. You have something to SELL, we like to BUY. Call Greg, 717-658-7954. ADRIAN BUYS CARS – A convenient way to dispose of an unwanted car for top cash dollar. My buy price is usually hundreds higher than a CarBox quote. I come to you. Call 410-916-0776. BUYING ANTIQUES, ESTATES. 20-year Beacon advertiser. Cash paid for jewelry, gold, silver, old coins, pens, art, old toys, dolls, trains, watches, old comics, sports memorabilia, military guns, knives, swords, all collections. Tom, 240-4763441. COLLECTOR BUYING MILITARY ITEMS: Helmets, weapons, rifles, shot guns, knives, swords, bayonets, web gear, uniforms, etc. from all wars and countries. Large quantities are okay. Will pay top prices for my personal collection. Discreet consultations. Call Fred, 301-9100783.

CASH BUYER FOR OLD COSTUME JEWELRY – wrist and pocket watches (any condition). Also buying watchmaker tools and parts, coins, quilts, old toys, postcards, trains, guns, pocket and hunting knives, linens, fishing equipment and tackle boxes, fountain pens, Christmas garden items, crocks and jugs, lamps and lanterns, pottery, military items, sports memorabilia, advertising signs, paintings and contents of attics, basements and garages. Professional, no pressure individual with over forty years of experience. Lloyd D. Baker. 410-409-4965. 717-969-8114, office. 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, 301-279-8834. Thank you.

Thanks for reading!

ADVERTISERS IN THIS ISSUE Clinical Research Studies Brain Imaging Memory Study .14 Diabetes Research Study . . . . . .14 Dementia Behavior Study . . . . .13 Depression Study . . . . . . . . . . . .14 IBNI Stroke Study . . . . . . . . . . .15 Iron Supplement Study . . . . . . .13 Memory Impairment Study . . . .15 Mind At Home Study . . . . . . . .13 Sleep Disorder Study . . . . . . . . .15 Urinary Leakage Study . . . . . . .15

Dental Services Denture Doctor . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Diamond Dental of Owings Mills . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Mishpacha Dental . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Events Myerberg Center . . . . . . . . . . . .25 Old Jews Telling Jokes . . . . . . .27

Financial Services Bennett Senior Services . . . . . .16

Bob Lester, Insurance . . . . . . . .19 Debt Counsel for Seniors and the Disabled . . . .17 JS Richardson Insurance . . . . . .17 PENFED Credit Union . . . . . . .19 Secure Benefits Alliance . . . . . .16

Oak Crest/Erickson . . . . . . . . . .9 Park Heights Place . . . . . . . . . .29 Park View Apartments . . . . . . . .24 Shangri-La Assisted Living . . . .29 St. Mary’s Roland View Towers 29 Virginia Towers . . . . . . . . . . . . .20

Hearing Services

Legal Services

Hearing & Speech Agency . . . .11

Frank, Frank & Scherr Law Firm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 Law Office of Karen Ellsworth .17

CommuniCare Health . . . . . . . . .8 Keswick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Manor Care Health Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

Medical/Health

Subscriptions

Dr. Richard Rosenblatt, DPM . . .9 Low Vision Specialists . . . . . . . .7 MedStar Medical Choice . . . . . . .3 Physical Therapy and Wellness Center . . . . . . . . . . .10 Skin Cancer EB . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Stuart Goldman, DPM . . . . . . . . .6 UM Health Advantage . . . . . . . . .7

The Beacon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30

Home Health Care One Day At A Time Personal Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Options for Senior America . . . .12

Housing Alta at Regency Crest . . . . . . . . .9 Atrium Village . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 Buckingham’s Choice/Integrace 18 Charlestown/Erickson . . . . . . . .9 Christ Church Harbor Apts. . . . .18 Fairhaven/Integrace . . . . . . . . . .18 Gatherings at Quarry Place/Beazer Homes 21 Linden Park Apts. . . . . . . . .20, 30

Services Care Patrol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 Radio Flea Market . . . . . . . . . . .26

Sudzy Pets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27

Shopping Bathwrap Showers . . . . . . . . . . .32

Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation

Theatres/ Entertainment Toby’s Dinner Theatre . . . . . . . .26

Travel Eyre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 Fire Museum of Maryland . . . . .23 Nexus Holidays . . . . . . . . . . . . .23

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NOVEMBER 2016 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; BALTIMORE BEACON