November 2016 | Howard County Beacon

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A look back at 70 years of TV

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PHOTO BY AP

By Frazier Moore TV’s arrival, depending on how you see it, can be marked at any of a number of moments in the last century.

Maybe 1927 — when 21-year-old Philo Farnsworth transmitted the image of a horizontal line to a receiver in the next room of his San Francisco lab.

Or maybe 1939 — when the RCA Television Pavilion opened at the New York World’s Fair with the exciting news that RCA’s National Broadcasting Co. would expand from radio into TV, and — to spread the word — telecast the ceremony to the scattering of 2,000 TV sets throughout all of New York City.

But the handiest year for TV’s genesis is 1946 — when technology, optimism and renewed consumer buying power joined forces at the conclusion of World War II and gave broadcast television a belated kick-start.

By chance (or is it?), the same year that ushered in the TV age is also seen as the kickoff for the baby-boom generation — the population boom of kids born between 1946 and 1964.

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Overlapping with boomers TV was key to the world baby boomers were born into: a newly modernized world where every problem (with the possible exception of the Cold War) seemed to point to a solution that was just around the corner.

Polio would be cured! Man would go into space! Electricity, thanks to atomic energy, would soon be “too cheap to meter.”

Even African-Americans, oppressed for so long, had new reason for hope.

The UNIVAC computer, introduced in 1951, would count the U.S. population and forecast Dwight D. Eisenhower’s 1952 presidential win. It could even help volunteers find love and marriage, as TV host Art Linkletter demonstrated on his 1950s game show, “People Are Funny.”

TV chronicled this bracing wave of wonder and potential, and built upon it as an essential part of what set boomers apart: They were pampered and privileged and groomed for a sure-to-be-glorious tomorrow.

No wonder kids claimed TV as their own. No wonder TV eagerly returned the

Vivian Vance, playing Ethel Mertz, and Lucille Ball, as the irrepressible Lucy Ricardo, in a scene from “I Love Lucy” — one of the iconic comedies of the early days of television. TV’s first days of popularity coincided with the early years of the baby boom generation (1946 to 1964), and its stars — from Art Linkletter to Howdy Doody — became cultural touch points for that generation.

favor, singling them out as an irresistible demographic.

Granted, there wasn’t much prime-time network programming in the fall of 1946.

And what there was seemed targeted to adults: Gillette-sponsored sports every Friday on NBC and, on the DuMont network every Wednesday, TV’s first soap opera.

Targeting the kids But kids were squarely in the sights of TV programmers by December 1947, when “Howdy Doody” premiered on NBC as a weekday children’s show.

Set in fictional Doodyville, where stringed puppets cavorted with its fleshand-blood host, “Buffalo Bob” Smith, “Howdy Doody” during its 13-year run would prove to be a huge hit, and much

more: a formative influence on nearly every baby boomer’s childhood.

For a glimpse of early boomers, check YouTube for archived clips of “Howdy Doody,” which welcomed kids to the Peanut Gallery, the name it coined for its studio audience. Captured on vintage ‘50s kinescopes, those youngsters represent a TV face (albeit made up, regrettably, of only white faces) of the surging boomer generation.

Then, on Jan. 19, 1953, Lucy and Ricky Ricardo celebrated the birth of a son on “I Love Lucy” — the same day the sitcom’s star, Lucille Ball, gave birth to a son with her real-life husband and leading man, Desi Arnaz.

This couple’s fact-and-fiction child took his place as “the crown prince of the television See BOOMERS & TV, page 37

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Old habits get a new twist in Sister Act; plus, forging friendships in Laurel for 50 years page 34

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Kudos to our writers We are especially proud that this year, Each year, we enter a selection of our writers’ original stories in the journalism all 12 of our entries won honors in this competition! competitions of the National In the category for original Mature Media Awards and the articles, two 2015 Howard North American Mature PubCounty Beacon cover stories lishers Association (NAMPA). won Bronze Awards — JanuWe do this for two reasons: ary’s “Program takes a bite out One, as a way to be sure we of hunger,” and August’s are keeping up the quality of our writing compared with “Remembering WWII 70 years other publications throughlater.” And our September out the country. cover story about collectibles, Two, because we’re pretty “Will items collect dust or confident about the first reason money?” won a Merit Award.

FROM THE (that is, we believe our writers All three stories were by CoPUBLISHER are among the best anywhere), lumbia writer Robert FriedBy Stuart P. Rosenthal and want to give them the opman, a regular contributor to portunity to earn recognition our Howard County edition. they will treasure from well-respected, objec- We are proud to have him on our staff. tive judges.

Four cover stories from the Baltimore I’m happy and proud to report that Beacon were honored: two with Silver every one of our regular writers and free- Awards, two with Bronze Awards. All four lancers came away with one or more hon- articles, which covered topics such as gay marriage, elder abuse, and growing older ors in this year’s competitions.

The declared goal of the Mature Media without children, were by our Baltimore Awards is “to recognize the nation’s ‘best contributing editor, Carol Sorgen. Carol and brightest’ materials and programs pro- has been writing for us since we began the duced every year for older adults.” The Baltimore Beacon a dozen years ago and prestigious competition attracts entries wins accolades every year.

Similarly, four cover stories from our from national organizations and publications, such as those from AARP, the Arthri- flagship Greater Washington Beacon were honored — two with Silver Awards, plus tis Foundation and the Mayo Clinic.

Beacon The Howard County

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The Beacon is a monthly newspaper dedicated to inform, serve, and entertain the citizens of Howard County, Md. and is privately owned. Other editions serve Greater Baltimore, 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 • Art Director ........................................Kyle Gregory • Advertising Representatives ........Doug Hallock, ......................Steve Levin, M.K. Phillips, Paul Whipple • Editorial Assistant ......................Rebekah Alcalde

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one Bronze and one Merit Award — all by our managing editor, Barbara Ruben.

Finally, the Washington Beacon 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.

Robert Friedman was honored with a first place for Feature Writing and a third place for Topical Issues in our Howard County edition.

Carol Sorgen won a first place for Feature Writing, a first for Topical Issues, and a second for Profile, all in our Baltimore 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 descriptions: “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 Pensky 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 candi-

date 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.

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 See LETTERS TO EDITOR, page 30

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MEDICARE OPEN SEASON Make changes to your drug or Medicare Advantage plans by Dec. 7 HIGH ANXIETY Tranquilizers and sleeping pills may actually make you more anxious EXTRA ENERGY Give yourself a boost with easy-to-make homemade energy bars LINKS & APPS Some interesting and practical websites, plus apps for your smartphone

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, vi-

sual 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.

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

Please tell our advertisers, “I saw you in the Beacon!”

What you can do to avoid delirium If you or a loved one is scheduled for a hospital stay, ask whether your hospital has HELP or another program for preventing delirium. If not, there are several things you can do as a patient or caregiver.

If you’re going into the hospital: 1. Gather your records. Prepare a “medical information sheet” listing all your allergies, the names and phone numbers of your physicians and your usual pharmacy, all your medical conditions, and all the medications — both prescription and nonprescription — you’re currently taking.

Have your medical records forwarded to the doctors who will be caring for you.

2. Bring the essentials. You’ll need your glasses, hearing aids and fresh batteries, and dentures. Ask if you can bring a few familiar things like family photos, a good book, or an MP3 player with your 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.

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Snacks can be fine, if you snack smarter

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A free program for those wanting to learn more about hip and knee surgery will be offered by Howard County General Hospital’s Joint Academy on Wednesday, Nov. 9 from 3 to 5 p.m. at the hospital’s Wellness Center Medical Pavilion, 10710 Charter Dr., Columbia. Featured speaker is Dr. Nicholas Grosso. For more information, call (410) 740-7601.

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pretzels with some hummus. Planning snacks that provide both carbohydrates and protein will help tide you over until dinner.

8. Don’t get tripped up by travel. However often you travel, prepare in advance so you’ll have healthy snacks to eat en route.

For shorter trips, pack a quarter-cup of dried fruit, such as apricots, a handful of almonds and a few whole-wheat crackers as healthier alternatives to the salty snacks you might find at convenience stores or the airport. Sip plenty of water along the way.

EatingWell is a magazine and website devoted to healthy eating as a way of life. Online at www.eatingwell.com. © 2016 Eating Well, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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BEACON BITS

crowave popcorn, for example, choose a “mini” 100-calorie bag. And be sure to account for those calories by cutting back elsewhere in your day.

6. Use snacks to fill nutritional gaps. Make your snacks count. Choose those that provide calcium and fiber — two nutrients that people often skimp on. Two snacks to try: a cup of yogurt with a halfcup of whole-grain cereal mixed in, or a skim latte plus an apple.

7. Brown-bag your snack. Skip the vending machine and satisfy the afternoon “munchies” with a healthy snack you packed at home. You’ll save money, and get a bigger bang for your nutritional buck. Try an ounce of almonds and an orange, or a handful of

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fiber and a little protein — the perfect combination for a filling snack. Toss chickpeas with crunchy veggies and shallots, then drizzle with a hint of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon.

Just be sure to watch your serving size.

3. Toss grapes in the freezer for an easy snack. Because they’re sweet and you savor them individually, you’ll get a lot of satisfaction for just a handful of calories.

4. Include a treat every day. Believe it or not, giving yourself little treats may be the secret to losing weight — for good. Aiming to be “too good” sets you up to fail. If you like a glass of wine with dinner, make room for it. Prefer dessert? Skip the drink and go for a low-calorie chocolate treat instead.

5. Snack (and multitask) mindfully.

Munching mindlessly in front of the TV is a surefire way to eat unnecessary calories. But that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a bowl of freshly popped popcorn or your favorite snack. Instead of popping a big bag of mi-

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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

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Start colon cancer screening by age 50 Dear Mayo Clinic: Is a colonoscopy still recommended for everyone when they turn 50? Are there other options? I am 54 and have no health issues and no family history of colon cancer, so have not yet been screened.

Answer: The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends that everyone between the ages of 50 and 75 be screened on a regular basis for colon cancer. Several options are available for that screening, including colonoscopy.

Colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States.

Studies have shown, however, that early detection and treatment significantly raise the likelihood that colon cancer can be

cured. Research has also found there to be clear benefits for everyone to start screening for colon cancer no later than age 50.

Some people at higher risk may need to begin screening sooner.

Colonoscopy is an effective, proven method for detecting colon cancer in its early stages, as well as for identifying and removing precancerous polyps. During a colonoscopy exam, a long, flexible tube, called a colonoscope, is inserted into the rectum. A tiny video camera at the tip of the tube allows the doctor to detect changes or abnormalities inside the entire colon.

A colonoscopy procedure typically takes about 20 to 30 minutes. If no abnormalities are found, and if you don’t have an increased risk of colon cancer, then your next

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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.

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Changes in Medicare drug and health plans

By Bill Salganik Even if you’re happy with your Medicare prescription drug or health plan, it’s a good idea to check out plan changes for 2017.

Your needs for prescriptions or doctors may have changed, and the insurance companies can change their premiums, copays, deductibles, networks and lists of covered drugs each year.

If you don’t re-shop during open enrollment, from Oct. 15 to Dec. 7, you could get stuck with a plan that doesn’t cover what you need, or one that’s imposing a large premium increase.

One prescription plan, for example, First Health Part D Premier Plus, is increasing its monthly premium from $86.80 to $125.70. At the same time, some plans are reducing premiums. Envision Rx Plus recorded the biggest drop, going from $33 to $14.60. That makes it the lowest-premium plan in Maryland next year.

But don’t rush to sign up for a plan based just on premiums. It’s important to check the co-pays, and whether the plan covers the drugs you need. And for health plans, you need to look at the providers in the network, cost sharing, and whether they offer additional services, such as dental or vision.

The State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) of the Howard County Of-

fice on Aging and Independence can help you review your options. One-on-one appointments are available, including special evening hours and weekend enrollment events. Call (410) 313-7392 (voice/relay) for information or to schedule.

Here’s a look at some of the major health and drug plan changes for 2017, and their implications for members and prospective members, as well as some other helpful reminders:

fore your coverage starts) will increase from $360 to $400 in 2017. Nine prescription plans are imposing $400 deductibles, while seven plans will have no deductible.

Some plans exclude Tier 1 and Tier 2 (lowto medium-priced) medications from the deductible if you use a preferred pharmacy.

Higher (and lower) premiums: While 10 prescription plans will have lower premiums next year, 11 have boosted their premiums. Four of those plans will increase more than $5.

In addition to First Health Premier Plus ($38.90 increase), others with $5-plus hikes are Express Scripts Medicare Choice (up $13.50); AARP MedicareRx Preferred (up $9.40); and SilverScript Choice (up $6.90).

For plans with lower premiums, five are dropping by more than $5: EnvisionRxPlus (down $18.40); AARP Walgreens (formerly Symphonix PrimeSaver, dropping $17.90); Cigna HealthSpring Extra-Secure (down See OPEN SEASON, page 10

Prescription drug plans Leaving the market: The number of stand-alone drug plans is dropping from 24 this year to 20 in 2017. TransAmerica Rx Classic will not be offered next year. If you are enrolled in TransAmerica, during open enrollment you can pick a different plan; if you do nothing, you will not have any prescription coverage as of January 1.

Three United American plans — Enhanced, Select and Essential — are ending, but for these plans, if you do nothing, you will automatically be switched into a SilverScript plan. Your new plan may have a very different cost and benefit structure, however, and may not cover your medications, so it is important to review all 2017 options.

Added deductibles: The maximum deductible (the amount you have to spend be-

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

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

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

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

MYTH: Pain is the only problem associated with sciatica.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

MYTH: Sciatica requires surgery.

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

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

Success rates are up to 90%.

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

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

MYTH: Getting sciatica properly diagnosed is expensive.

FACT: Not true. Dr. Steve Silverston of World Class Chiropractic in Ellicott City, MD is currently offering an initial consultation and comprehensive examination for Just $43, this includes all tests and x-rays if necessary.

Dr. Steve Silverston – In Ellicott City, MD has helped over the past 24 years thousands of patients find relief from agonizing back pain and sciatica. He uses Non-Surgical Re-Constructive Spinal Care.

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

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

Almost Immediate Relief from Pain!

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

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

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

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

Take the Next Step - END the Suffering... Initial Consultation and Comprehensive Examination for Just $43.

This includes all tests and x-rays if necessary.

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

Mention this article (CODE: 43TB1116) and Dr. Steve Silverston will happily reduce his usual consultation fee to just $43!

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

Call them now and get a full and thorough examination to pinpoint the cause of your problem for just $43. The normal cost of such an exam is $345 so you will save $302!

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

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

Call 410-461-3435 NOW. If it’s the weekend or they’re away from the phone the staff at World Class Chiropractic promise they will get back to you. So call now on 410-461-3435 and quote this special discount code: 43TB1116.

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N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 6 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 6

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Fitness & Health

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N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 6 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

Answers to your “weighty” questions

By Dr. Howard LeWine Q: I need to lose a few pounds and also want to improve my eating habits.

I read that foods with a lower glycemic index are better for you. Is it really that important?

A: Not so long ago, reducing fat was promoted as the healthy way to lose weight. We now know that’s not the case. Restricting carbohydrates, especially those with a high glycemic index, is a much better approach.

The glycemic index is a number that indicates how rapidly the body digests a particular type of food and converts it into blood sugar (glucose).

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

However, the insulin rush will deplete that blood glucose within the next couple

of hours. You may even feel tired and shaky if your glucose level drops too low too quickly. And you’ll probably crave a high-glycemic snack, which certainly won’t help with weight loss.

In contrast, low-glycemic foods require more processing time in the digestive system, as enzymes work to separate the sugar from other components. Glucose flows slowly into the bloodstream, and insulin is released gradually, too. As a result, you remain sated longer and are less likely to overeat.

Even if you would rather not take the time to look up the glycemic index of everything on your plate, you can still benefit from the driving force behind the glycemic index.

Simply avoid highly processed foods, especially those with lots of concentrated sugars and refined starches — for example, white flour, packaged cereals and instant oatmeal.

Instead, choose foods with a low glycemic index, since they are likely to contain few sugars. And when they do contain sugars, the sugars are part of the natural food struc-

ture 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 viscer-

al 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.

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.

Open season

Health plans

miums and other out-of-pocket charges.

MedStar Medicare Choice, which has no premium this year, will charge $17 a month in 2017.

Sanctioned plans: All of Cigna HealthSpring’s Medicare plans are under Medicare sanctions for not following rules in a number of areas. Current members can stay in the plans, but no new members can enroll. Since Medicare’s online Plan Finder tool will not show these plans’ information, current members can call Cigna HealthSpring to get cost and coverage information for 2017.

Switching from health plans to original Medicare: Those who dropped a Medicare supplement (Medigap) policy to

try a Medicare Advantage HMO or PPO (for the first time) can reinstate their Medigap if they drop the Medicare Advantage plan within one year. We advise anyone thinking of switching back to review drug plans and contact their former Medigap company as soon as possible, to make sure the switch is done within the time limits.

Assistance programs: There are a number of programs that can help with the costs of Medicare. You can apply for these any time of the year. If you have gross income less than $35,640 a year as an individual, or $48,060 as a couple, you may qualify.

Bill Salganik is a counselor with the Howard County State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP).

From page 7 $11.70); Cigna HealthSpring Rx Secure (down $7.10); and SilverScript Plus (down $5.20).

There is one new Medicare HMO health plan, called Provider Partners, which serves only those who live in nursing homes or other institutions.

A number of plans will increase their pre-

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H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 6

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Is your medicine making you anxious?

You wake up at 4 a.m. feeling tired, yet thing you could do! I rarely recommend wired, and you keep twirling some person drug treatment for anxiety.

Rather, I hold the opposite or event in your head, never belief. I actually want you to going back to sleep. consider the possibility that a Or you feel something bad medication you take may be is going to happen today; you CAUSING the anxiety and just know it! changes in your mood.

These are some symptoms of For almost 7 million folks anxiety. Some of you live with with GAD, it’s very possible this every day, perhaps several that most of them are taking a times a day. Ruminating in a medication that induces anxistate of fear, panic or anxiety can bring about other sympety. Below I list some of the DEAR worst possible offenders (you toms in your body that over PHARMACIST are going to be stunned). If you time, wear your adrenals out,

By Suzy Cohen and lead to severe insomnia, detake any of these, speak to your pression and high blood pressure. Stress can doctor, because you will need to find a suitable alternative, or follow very careful inalso cause ulcers.

There’s a difference between an anxiety or structions to taper off from these drugs. Stoppanic attack and generalized anxiety disor- ping suddenly could be a disaster.

Here goes: der, or GAD. The difference is that one (the Tranquilizers. Shocker, isn’t it? The medattack) is finite and quick, while the other is constant. GAD sufferers often expect the icine you may be taking to relax can actually worst when there’s no real reason for con- lead to anxiety and panic attacks! According cern, or they may fret about health, money, to a 1995 study, in almost half the patients seeking advice for anxiety, panic and phofamily or work issues.

When you find that these intrusive bias, the cause was either alcohol or benzodithoughts are occupying much of your day, azepine drugs like clonazepam, alprazolam, lorazepam and others. it’s time to do something about it.

As a pharmacist, I bet you think that I’m The mechanism is complicated, but it’s going to recommend a tranquilizer, but due to a rebound effect. Getting off these I’m not. In fact, that is the worst possible 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.

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Health Studies Page

N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 6 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

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 therapies 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-a-day pill.

The study is double blind, meaning treatment will be assigned randomly, with twothirds of the participants assigned to OCA (either 10 mg. or 25 mg.) and the remaining participants to a placebo. Throughout the study, neither the participants 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 recruited worldwide to participate in this study. You may be eligible to participate if See FATTY LIVER, page 13

Coalition of Geriatric Services We’re a coalition of nonprofits, agencies, businesses and professionals who come together to advocate for and help older adults.

November Meeting Date: Wed., November 16, 2016 Time: 8:30 – 10:00 a.m.

Location: Augsburg Village 6811 Campfield Road, Baltimore, MD 21207

Bladder leakage or erectile dysfunction may affect your confidence and intimacy.1, 2 Maybe it’s time to take control.

We can help you turn your life around !

Please join us for an educational seminar to discuss the latest solutions.

Meet with an AMS Men's Health Representative to Learn More: Date: Tuesday, November 10th Seminar: 1 Hour Appointments from 9am-4pm Regus Business Center 6700 Alexander Bell Dr., Suite 200 Columbia, MD 21046 Partners and guests welcome.

Space is Limited, call to register today.

202-630-7425 Boston Scientific Corporation has sponsored funding for this patient seminar and accompanying educational material.

1. DiMeo PJ. Psychosocial and Relationship Issues in Men with Erectile Dysfunction. Urologic Nursing. 2006 Dec; 26(6): 442-453.

2. Hunskaaar S, Sandvik H. One Hundred and Fifty Men with Urinary Incontinence. III. Psychosocial Consequences. Scand J Prim Health Care. 1993; 11:193-96.

Speaker: Susan Wranick-SLP Topic: Business Development Professional Communication Skills Go to www.cogsmd.org for more information Or learn more by calling (410) 997-0610.

Thank you to our 2016 Executive Members PLATINUM MEMBERS: The Beacon Newspapers • Vantage House Retirement Community GOLD MEMBERS Howard County General Hospital Howard County Office on Aging and Independence SILVER MEMBERS Being There Senior Care, LLC • Brightview Rolling Hills Brooke Grove Retirement Village • Deborah L. Herman, CPA Ellicott City Healthcare Center • Home Call • Oasis Senior Advisors Right At Home In-home Care & Assistance The Bob Lucido Team of Keller Williams Integrity BRONZE MEMBERS ComForCare Home Care of Howard County • Earl Wilkinson, M.D. (ENT) Gentiva Home Health an Affiliate of Kindred at Home Let’s Move, LLC • Professional Healthcare Resources, Inc.

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When keeping a secret creates a dilemma Dear Solutions: Dear Lena: My daughter is getting married. I just First of all, being pregnant and deciding found out that she’s pregnant to get married is usually a but doesn’t want that to be good and welcome decision. known because she doesn’t So everyone will, hopefully, be want people to think that’s the happy about the wedding. reason for the marriage. Thus, No matter how close you she’s sworn me to secrecy. are to your sister, you didn’t I want her to have a lovely give birth to her. But you did wedding, but I’m now a widow to your daughter, and your oband a little stressed financially. ligation is to keep her secret.

My sister and her husband, You are honoring your siswho are thrilled that she’s getter’s sincerity by not assuming ting married and want her to SOLUTIONS that she and her husband have a great wedding, insist on By Helen Oxenberg, would withdraw their help if helping financially with my part. MSW, ACSW they knew about the pregnanMy sister and I have always cy. Tell your sister afterward been very close and have always confided about your promise to your daughter, and in each other. I’m conflicted about what to let’s hope everyone will be happy — includtell her, because I wouldn’t want my broth- ing that baby! er-in-law to know this beforehand, and I Dear Solutions: don’t want her to be angry afterward. But I I don’t know how to talk to a person I promised my daughter to keep mum. call “a whiner.” This is an old friend. When So I’m not sure how to handle this. What we worked together, there wasn’t time for do you suggest? complaints and grumbling. It’s true some — Lena sad things have happened to her — as to

Fatty liver From page 12 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 scho@mdmercy.com; or Seema Shahi at Digestive Disease Associates in Catonsville, (410) 7370053 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 eligible 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.

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 doing something about them.

As for your friend — take control. She may be doing this out of boredom, as well as people’s love of talking about themselves. Instead of just being a listener, plan things that you can do together and talk about afterward.

As for the dinner crowd who become each other’s doctors — take control there, too. At the beginning of the dinner announce that each person has exactly five minutes to report on his/her latest medical condition.

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.

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N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 6 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

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

BEACON BITS

Nov. 1

BRAIN AEROBICS AND GAMES Challenge your brain with puzzles, word games and other smart

tasks to improve and enhance your brain’s power. The event takes place on Tuesday, Nov. 1 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the Miller Branch library, 9421 Frederick Rd., Ellicott City. Register by calling (410) 313-1950.

supply sustained energy.

Post-workout: Provide a healthy amount of carbs to replenish depleted glycogen.

(Glycogen is how the body stores carbohydrates for use by our muscles.)

3. Dried blueberries. Dried blueberries are a tasty and antioxidant-rich alternative to raisins.

Pre-workout: The easily digested carbohydrates in blueberries fuel muscles, plus a little fiber provides staying power.

Post-workout: Polyphenolic compounds in blueberries may help combat oxidative stress in muscles — potentially preventing soreness and inflammation.

4. Chocolate chips: You probably don’t need a justification to add chocolate chips to your energy bars, but there actually are some health reasons to add them.

Pre-workout: Antioxidants in dark chocolate help prevent muscle soreness later on.

One study of bikers showed dark chocolate helped reduce oxidative stress in muscles — a component of muscle soreness.

Post-workout: Dark chocolate provides flavonols (compounds that can help improve blood flow), which brings more oxygen to replenish your hardworking muscles.

5. Pumpkin seeds: Pumpkin seeds are good sources of alpha-linolenic acid, a plant form of omega-3 fatty acids that can help fight inflammation, a factor in muscle soreness.

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 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.

BEACON BITS

Nov. 17

GREAT AMERICAN SMOKEOUT DAY

Howard County General Hospital will offer free information on ways to stop smoking on Thursday, Nov. 17 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the lobby of the main building at 5755 Cedar Ln., Columbia. For more information, call (410) 740-7601.

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Say you saw it in the Beacon | Fitness & Health

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 6

Tech Corner Links & Apps

By Barbara Ruben

Links Election connection Not sure who to vote for in the local school board election or the state General Assembly? Do you still need more information on where the presidential candidates stand on the issues?

The non-partisan League of Women Voters compiles candidates’ responses to a variety of questions. You can build a sample ballot of candidates and issues that you can print out with your preferences and take to the polls to help you vote on Election Day. No matter where you live in the U.S., you can plug in your address to get information not just on candidates, but also on where to vote, how to get an absentee ballot, voter registration and more. www.vote411.org

3D redecorating If you’re downsizing and moving to a

new home, or if you just want to rearrange the furniture in the place you already moved to, Sweet Home 3D can help you visualize furniture placement.

First, draw walls with precise dimensions using the mouse or keyboard. You can add furniture to the plan from a searchable and extensive catalog organized by categories such as kitchen, living room, bedroom, etc.

While designing the home in 2D, you can simultaneously view it in 3D from an aerial point of view, or navigate into it as if you were a virtual visitor. http://www.sweethome3d.com

Finding missing dementia patients One of the worst scenarios for families caring for someone living with Alzheimer’s disease is a loved one wandering or getting lost. Nearly half of family members caring for someone with Alzheimer’s have experienced this, according to a new survey conducted by Home Instead, Inc. Of those, nearly one in five called the police for assistance.

To help families keep their loved ones safe, the Home Instead Senior Care network has launched a free tool — the Missing Senior Network. The website enables family caregivers to alert a network of friends, family and businesses to be on the lookout for a missing senior via text or email. Families

can also choose to post an alert to the Home Instead Remember for Alzheimer’s Facebook page, connected to 270,000 followers. www.MissingSeniorNetwork.com

Apps

peal Obamacare? Other questions ask about gun control, foreign policy and other issues.

The app then recommends presidential and Congressional candidates whose views match your own.

Free, available for iPhone and Android

Yoga in your pocket

Matchmaking for politics Answer a few simple questions on the Voter app and find out which politicians have your best interests at heart — and have a track record to back it up.

Just swipe right to vote “yes” and left to vote “no” regarding policy questions such as: Abolish the death penalty? Keep abortion legal? Decrease military spending? Re-

The app Yoga in Your Pocket helps you practice your downward dog and sun salutation poses anywhere. It includes illustrations, descriptions and benefits of 200 poses.

Choose between different practices, different durations and different difficulty levels. Soothing music plays in the background. The app even gives directions on when to inhale and exhale. You can keep track of the poses you do, and unlock new screen backgrounds as you do more. $2.99, available for iPhone only

Embracing the

Individuality

A

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of Our Residents

t Olney Assisted Living, our goal is to continually enhance the quality of life for each resident.

Our residents are ambassadors, doctors and journalists, as well as mothers and fathers and grandparents. Alzheimer’s can’t change that. We embrace the delightful uniqueness of each resident, and we understand that creating individually tailored programs of care, engaging activities and predictable routines can lead to the empowerment of our residents and the further enrichment of their lives. Family support and involvement is also an integral part of our comprehensive approach to care.

Contact Olney Assisted Living at (301)570-0525 to Dind out more about how we promote the independence and individuality of our residents.

16940 Georgia Avenue I Olney, Maryland 20832 (301) 570-0525 I www.olneymemorycare.com

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N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 6 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 6

Say you saw it in the Beacon

50+

THE

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

Connection

Department of Community Resources and Services

Volume 6, No. 11 • November 2016

Supporting the Caregiver’s Journey

T

he primary rule of taking care of others is to take care of yourself first. Caregiving can be a rewarding experience, but it is also physically and emotionally demanding. Each November, National Family Caregivers Month (NFCM) calls attention to the fact that family caregivers need support too, in the form of quality services, resources and tools to help them better navigate their caregiving efforts. Fittingly, the 2016 NFCM theme is “Take Care to Give Care.”

Caregiving today takes place in a different world than the one in which our grandparents lived. Family structures are different and more complex, with an evolution from mostly rural to increasingly urban and suburban environments. Families are often spread across the country, leaving few, if any, family members to care for older or ailing relatives. They may live apart from their loved one, have a full-time job, and their own family to support, yet are expected to provide complex care, which 10 years ago would have been considered skilled nursing care.

Between now and 2035, the population of those aged 80 and older is projected to almost quadruple in Howard County. It is clear that caregivers – both family and professional – will play an ever more crucial role in the lives of older adults. One of the priorities outlined in Howard County’s 20 year master plan, “Planning for the Growth of the Older Adult Population in Howard County: Creating an Age-Friendly Community” is to promote the physical, emotional and financial well-being of caregivers, as well as those for whom they care. The focus of the County’s Caregiver Support Program, coordinated by the Office on Aging and Independence (OOAI) is to: • Develop an expanded network of resources and supports for caregivers to include needs assessment, care management and respite care.

• Offer training opportunities in multiple formats to best suit the individual caregiver.

Caregivers often do not know where to turn for help or how to pay for needed services and supports. The Caregiver Support Program offers several options for caregivers. The program is federally funded under the Older Americans Act, which allows the OOAI to provide: • Information and assistance for caregivers to learn about and gain access to available resources.

• Limited funding for respite care and supplemental services.

Time off for the caregiver is crucial; grant funding gives those who are the most economically and socially challenged some much-needed relief. Supplemental help refers to items not otherwise covered by insurance (e.g. adult diapers, dental expenses and more).

• Individual counseling, support groups, and caregiver training/ education. These include Powerful Tools for Caregivers – a 6-week, evidenced-based program which addresses the

caregiver’s well-being; educational sessions throughout the year; an annual caregiver conference; and the Caring Conversations Series, which focuses on additional and alternative resources.

Remember, only by taking care of yourself can you be strong enough to take care of your loved one. “Take care to give care!”

For more information, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/caregiver or call Kathy Wehr at 410-313-5955 (voice/relay).

A Message from Howard County Executive

Allan H. Kittleman Join me in welcoming Steven A. Bullock as the new Director of the Department of Community Resources and Services. Steve will begin his new role with DCRS on November 1.

Steve has an impressive background in human services. His extensive experience developing systems of support, working with community and faith-based organizations and improving the delivery of critical services will be a tremendous asset to DCRS. I am confident he is the right person to continue our forward momentum.

Under his leadership, we will continue to address the needs of multiple generations, tailor services to different cultural values and promote full inclusion for individuals with disabilities.

Over the past 17 years, Steve has held a number of positions with Multnomah County, Oregon. Since 2005, he has worked in the County’s Emergency Management Department, developing a culturally competent emergency communications plan for the most vulnerable populations and non-majority English speaking populations. Prior to that, he served as Chief Operations Officer of the Department of County Human Services, where he was responsible for the operation and improvement of a variety of systems that create and deliver services, including Mental Health and Addiction Services, Aging and Disability, Domestic Violence, Developmental Disability and Supportive Housing.

Steve’s commitment to community service is strong. Since 2005, he served as Board Chairman of the African American Health Coalition (AAHC), a nonprofit organization that promotes wellness for African Americans who live in Portland. He also served on the Board of Directors of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) from 2007 to 2011, implementing new ideas to connect NAMI with diverse populations.

Steve is excited and enthusiastic about leading Howard County’s Department of Community Resources and Services. He looks forward to building on the foundation that already exists and continuing the “no wrong door” approach to ensure Howard County residents have the resources they need to grow, thrive and live with dignity.

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The 50+ Connection

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N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 6 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

For adults looking for a structured day of fun, fitness and support!

H

oward County Office on Aging and Independence operates three therapeutic social day programs for adults aged 18 and over. Formerly known as Senior Center Plus, the Connections Social Day Program of Howard County is located at the Ellicott City, North Laurel and Glenwood 50+ Centers. This day program serves adults of all ages who may need additional structure and assistance. The activities are specifically designed to engage participants and help them stay more connected to their community.

A Program for Older Adults to Remain Active When Guidance or Supervision is Needed With trained staff and a 1:8 staff to participant ratio, the Connections Social Day Program offers participants a four-hour structured day of interesting activities designed to maintain one’s independence while providing assistance and oversight as needed.

The Connections program includes: • Daily Seated Exercise • Music • Dance • Creative Arts • Life Review and Memory Enhancement • Cards and Games • Trips and Outings • Intergenerational Programming • and much more!

The social component of the program is very important. Even individuals who are not typically “joiners” enjoy the camaraderie and opportunities for fun, creativity and more. Remaining socially active is a crucial element to enhance memory and overall mental health.

Also, when a program participant is at the center, their caregiver receives a few hours of respite to take care of other responsibilities or enjoy some well-deserved rest and relaxation!

How to Enroll Contact the director at the center nearest you to arrange a visit, to get more information, or to discuss enrollment:

Connections Social Day Program at Ellicott City 9401 Frederick Road, Ellicott City, MD 21042 410-313-1425 (voice/relay)

Connections Social Day Program at Glenwood 2400 Route 97, Cooksville, MD 21723 410-313-5442 (voice/relay)

Connections Social Day Program at North Laurel 9411 Whiskey Bottom Road, Laurel, MD 20723 410-313-7218 (voice/relay) A daily fee covers all program costs, trips, snacks and lunch; a sliding scale is offered to Howard County residents. Transportation is the responsibility of family/caregiver; however, staff can provide information about public and private transportation options.

Medicare Open Enrollment October 15 through December 7, 2016 By appointment ONLY. Call 410-313-7392.

Regular SHIP schedule, plus these additional locations/hours:

Bain 50+ Center 5470 Ruth Keeton Way, Columbia 21044

Thursday, November 3 • 5:00 – 8:00 p.m.

Saturday, November 5 • 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Thursday, November 17 • 5:00 – 8:00 p.m.

Ellicott City 50+ Center 9401 Frederick Road, Ellicott City 21042

Friday, November 18 • 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Glenwood 50+ Center 2400 Route 97, Cooksville 21723

Tuesday, November 8 • 9:00 a.m. – noon The 50+ Connection is published monthly by the Howard County Office on Aging and Independence.

This publication is available in alternate formats upon request.

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

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

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

North Laurel 50+ Center 9411 Whiskey Bottom Road, Laurel 20723

Wednesday, November 16 • 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.

KNOW YOUR OPTIONS. Contact us for help. www.howardcountymd.gov/SHIP

The 50+ Connection

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 6

Say you saw it in the Beacon

21

Help usCelebrate the Spirit of the Holidays!

Paws4Comfort is accepting new gift donations for the residents of Lorien Nursing Home.

Suggested items include shawls, scarves, puzzle books, calendars, small stuffed animals and jigsaw puzzles.

Gifts may be dropped off at Bain 50+ Center in the “LORIEN” box no later than December 9. Thank you!

Last 2016 Evaluation Dates: Thursday, November 10 and December 1 PET EVALUATIONS Bain 50+ Center 5470 Ruth Keeton Way, Columbia 21044

Tickets are going fast!

Get YOURS today!

THANKSGIVING CELEBRATION!

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

www.howardcountymd.gov/paws

NEW GROUP TIMES! Low-Vision Group • Tuesdays, 10:15 to 11:45 a.m.

Bain 50+ Center, 5470 Ruth Keeton Way, Columbia 21044

Giving Thanks

THE

LUNCHEON and DANCE

Men’s Forum • Thursdays, 10:00 a.m. to noon Ellicott City 50+ Center, 9401 Frederick Road, Ellicott City 21042

Contact Karen Hull 410-313-7466 (VOICE/RELAY) • khull@howardcountymd.gov

Music by “A Classic Case”

Thursday, November 17, 2016 Ten Oaks Ballroom 5000 Signal Bell Lane, Clarksville 21029

Doors Open 10:30 a.m. • Program Begins 11 a.m. • Lunch 12 noon Tickets on Sale at all Howard County 50+ Centers $14/person PLEASE BRING NON-PERISHABLE FOOD ITEMS FOR THE HOWARD COUNTY FOOD BANK FOR MORE INFORMATION, CALL

410-313-5440 (VOICE/RELAY)

DO YOU LIKE TO KNIT OR CROCHET? Operation Gratitude collects homemade scarves for military members. Please drop off your homemade scarves (in individual sealable plastic bags) no later than November 15.

Please pin a note to each scarf with the yarn fiber contents listed and feel free to include a personal note for a military member.

Our soldiers are always deeply touched by the care and effort when they receive gifts, but especially handmade items sent from supportive fellow Americans at “home.”

www.howardcountymd.gov/aging If you need this in an alternate format, or need accommodations, to attend this event, call Maryland Access Point at 410-313-1234 (VOICE/RELAY) or email to map@howardcountymd.gov by November 10.

Howard County Office on Aging and Independence

2017 Resource Guide The latest edition of Howard’s County’s Resource Guide is now available at: • Office on Aging and Independence 6751 Columbia Gateway Drive, Columbia 21046

• Howard County 50+ Centers • Howard County Libraries • By Mail – Contact Maryland Access Point (MAP) at 410-313-1234

Scarves should be 4”wide x 36”long. Please, NO fringe!

Colors should be subtle shades or earth tones: blues, browns, olive, grays, maroon, and black are excellent choices.

Scarves can be made from wool or acrylic yarn or non-flammable fleece.

Drop off at any Howard County 50+ Center or the Howard County Office of Veterans and Military Families 2017 HOW ARD COU NTY

RESOURCE GUID E

Forr Older Adults , Persons with Disab ilities, and Caregivers

MARYLAND ACCE SS POINT

410-313-1234

www.howardcou ntymd.gov/aging www.facebook.c om/hococommunit y

1-844-627-5465 Maryland Relay: 711 Email: map@howard countymd.gov Searchable databa se: www.marylandaccess point.info

For more information, contact Lisa B. Terry ★ PHONE 410-313-0821 (VOICE/RELAY) ★ EMAIL lbterry@howardcountymd.gov 6751 Columbia Gateway Drive, Suite 300, Columbia, MD 21046 www.howardcountymd.gov/veterans • www.facebook.com/HoCoMilitary The Department of Community Resources and Services provides vital human services through its offices of ADA Coordination, Aging and Independence, Children and Families, Community Partnerships, Consumer Protection, Local Children’s Board, and Veterans and Military Families.

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The 50+ Connection

N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 6 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

Howard County 50+ Centers

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

Bain 50+ Center Tuesday, November 8 • 10: 30 a.m. –

George Washington: The First American Join Craig Gotschall, Ambassador to the George Washington Masonic National Memorial, as he discusses Washington’s lasting contributions to America. FREE. RSVP: 410-313-7213.

Thursday, November 10 • 9:30 a.m. – Veteran’s Day Waffle Bar After all you’ve done for us, this is the least we can do to thank you.

In honor of Veteran’s Day, we want to serve you. Join us for a hot waffle with toppings. RSVP by November 3: 410-313-7213.

Tuesday, November 15 • 10:30 a.m. –

Olde Golde Presents: Moments to Remember Jim Blackwell, keyboardist, and Larry Stauffer, vocalist, perform tunes from the 1950’s. Join us for a sing along! FREE.

East Columbia 50+ Center Wednesday, November 2 • 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. –

Retirement and Life Planning Workshop Learn how to have a successful retirement with Mary Pat Donelan, certified retirement coach; discuss Medicare enrollment with a SHIP counselor; and get an economic check-up with a Maryland Access Point specialist. Cost: lunch donation. Register: 410-313-7680.

Tuesday, November 15 • 10 a.m. – Color with a Cop Come relax for an hour of peaceful coloring and talk to our Senior Liaison officer, André Lingham. No experience needed, all materials provided. FREE. Register: 410-313-7680.

Wednesday, November 30 • Noon – How Can I Give Back?

Add meaning and purpose to your life and find opportunities to give back by matching your interests with current community needs. Cost: lunch donation. Register: 410-313-7680.

Every Tuesdays • 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. – Sew Who Cares Join us to knit, crochet and stitch hats, scarves and bandannas to make shelter animals more appealing when their pictures are posted on Facebook and other sites for adoption. FREE. Yarn provided.

Ellicott City 50+ Center Thursday, November 10 • 12:30 p.m. –

All About Memories Trio Join Vel, Jim and Bill and dance to some oldies but goodies and more!

FREE. Details: 410-313-1400.

Tuesdays, Nov. 15 - Dec. 20 • 2:30 to 4 p.m. –

SeniorsTogether Bereavement Group Explore the process of mourning and coping with grief in a supportive atmosphere. Nominal fee; to register, contact Karen Hull at 410-313-7466 or khull@howardcountymd.gov.

Wednesday, November 30 • 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. –

Ellicott City 50+ Center Council Holiday Craft Boutique More than 35 vendors will offer handcrafted items to please everyone on your holiday shopping list! Admission $1; details: 410-313-1400.

Glenwood 50+ Center Thursday, November 3 • 1:30 p.m. – Gifts from the Kitchen Join staff for a hands-on kitchen demonstration to create a tasty gift and learn unique ways to package food gifts. Cost: $8; pre-register: 410-313-5440.

Wednesday, November 9 • Noon – Veterans Day Luncheon We honor our Veterans with a delicious spaghetti luncheon and desserts.

Short program and time for sharing is included. Vets are encouraged to bring items and share stories. Cost: $6 – FREE for veterans; pre-register: 410-313-5440.

Tuesday, November 15 • 1 p.m. – Trash to Treasure Don’t miss the last of our Pallet Palooza Series! Use reclaimed wood to create and decorate your own coat rack shelf and Christmas tree.

Cost: $15. Pre-register in advance: 410-313-5440.

North Laurel 50+ Center

Elkridge 50+ Center

Thursday, November 10 • 10 a.m. to noon –

Wednesday, November 9 • 10:30 a.m. to noon –

Enjoy a cup of coffee and meet local service members as we honor our hometown heroes and view a military memorabilia presentation.

FREE; to reserve a seat, call 410-313-0380.

Stamping Made Easy Design beautiful holiday cards just in time to brighten someone’s day.

Cost: $5/three cards; register: 410-313-5192.

Veterans Day Meet & Greet

Wednesday, November 16 • 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. –

Wednesday, November 16 • 9 a.m. to noon –

Thanksgiving Social

Pancake Breakfast with Dr. Dan

Gather with friends and enjoy a special holiday lunch and a musical comedy performance by “Two for the Show.” Cost: $3 plus lunch contribution. Register: 410-313-0380.

Enjoy homemade pancakes and eggs, and then listen to Dr. Dan Storch as he shares tips to help you stay positive in our changing world. FREE; donations accepted. Register: 410-313-5192.

Wednesday, November 30 • 11 a.m. to noon –

Wednesday, November 18 • 11 a.m. to noon – Let’s Dish

Fall Classical Concert: Woodwind Trio

Learn how to create a Mexican casserole with chicken, beans and cheese that is sure to please! FREE; donations accepted. Register: 410-313-5192.

Enjoy a classical music concert by the Candlelight Concert Society as you sip toasty warm apple cider. Call 410-313-0380 to reserve a seat.

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 6

Say you saw it in the Beacon

Money Law &

23

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 COMPARISON SHOP FOR RXs Websites and apps can help consumers find the lowest prices for prescription medications

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 isSee PREFERRED STOCKS, page 24

Stocks with rising dividends for 50 years

By Wayne Duggan There’s no question that dividends can be a powerful part of any long-term investor’s portfolio. There are very few things that are guaranteed in the investing world, but the best dividend stocks always come through for shareholders quarter after quarter.

The biggest concern for investors searching for dividend stocks is that a company will cut its dividend at the first sign of financial hardship. As impressive as is for companies to maintain its dividends through thick and thin, some companies kick dividend reliability up a notch higher.

Remarkably, a handful of blue-chip dividend stocks have an impeccable track record of more than 50 consecutive years of dividend hikes.

That’s right, the Vietnam War, stagflation, two oil booms and busts, the Dot Com Bubble and the worst financial crisis since the Great Depression have come and gone, and these five dividend stocks have upped their payouts in each of the last 50 years.

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

stock currently yields 2.6 percent after an incredible 54 consecutive years of dividend hikes.

JNJ stock issued its most recent dividend hike in May, when its quarterly payment climbed from $0.75 to $0.80. In the last 50 years, the S&P 500 has produced a total return of 1,880 percent. In that same time, JNJ’s total return is a staggering 4,800 percent.

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

The Coca-Cola Co. Not to be outdone, The Coca-Cola Co. (KO) stock has its own streak of 54 years of consecutive dividend hikes. In addition to Coca-Cola Classic, KO owns 19 other billion-dollar drink brands, including Dasani, Sprite, Powerade and Minute Maid.

KO’s current yield is 3.2 percent, including its most recent quarterly dividend hike from $0.33 to $0.35 in March. KO stock has returned 3,050 percent in the past 50 years and 99 percent in the last 10 years.

The company’s remarkable consistency

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

produced a total return of 1,760 percent.

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

Lowe’s Companies, Inc. When Lowe’s Companies, Inc. (LOW) stock upped its quarterly dividend from $0.28 to $0.35 in July, it marked the company’s 53rd consecutive year of higher dividends. Today, LOW yields 1.7 percent.

In the past 50 years, LOW stock has been one of the top performers in the market, producing a total return of 15,980 percent. Over the last decade, the dividend stock has returned 195 percent.

Remarkably, LOW’s net income is down 18 percent in the last decade, but the company has reduced its share count via buyouts by about 5 percent per year in that time.

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

In the past 50 years, MMM stock has

Procter & Gamble Co. All of the stocks mentioned above have impressive histories of dividend hikes.

However, Procter & Gamble Co. (PG) is the only stock among the group that currently has a streak of 60 consecutive years of dividend hikes.

PG is the owner of household brands like Crest, Tide, Pampers, Head & Shoulders and Gillette.

The stock’s most recent dividend hike came in April when it upped its quarterly payment from $0.6629 to $0.6695.

PG has been one of the superstar dividend stocks of the last 50 years and has produced a total return of 2,710 percent in that time.

This article is by Wayne Duggan of InvestorPlace. As of this writing, he did not hold a position in any of the aforementioned securities.

All contents © 2016 the Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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Preferred stocks From page 23 sued mainly by banks, real estate firms and insurance companies. Most of these firms carry investment-grade ratings, although the ETF does own some with lower ratings. Its annual expense ratio is 0.47 percent.

For a bit more income, consider buying one or more of the four preferreds described below. Note that ticker symbols for these stocks aren’t consistent across brokerage firms and financial websites. If you can’t find a symbol, visit www.quantumonline.com, a free site where you can look up preferred share classes by entering the issuer’s name.

AmTrust Financial Services, 7.75 percent Dep Shares Non-Cumulative Preferred Series E (AFSI.E, $26.35, 7.35 percent) AmTrust specializes in small-business

insurance, selling coverage for workers’ compensation, extended warranties and other types of property and casualty insurance. Revenues should hit $4.7 billion this year, up from $4 billion in 2015, according to Wall Street estimates. Analysts see the firm booking profits of $470 million in 2016. The company earns a solid A rating, moreover, from A.M. Best, a firm that evaluates the financial health of insurance providers.

AmTrust’s preferred looks attractive for its above-average yield and secure payout, said Greco. The firm paid $11.6 million in preferred dividends in the second quarter of 2016, well below its profits of $135 million. Shares aren’t callable until March 2021, and the dividends qualify for the 15 percent tax treatment. However, they aren’t cumulative.

Citigroup, Inc., 8.125 percent Dep Shares Series AA Non-cumulative Preferred (C.P, $28.62, 7.1 percent)

BEACON BITS

Oct. 27

CENTRAL MARYLAND TRANSIT DISCUSSION A public meeting to discuss future transportation issues and

needs in Howard, Anne Arundel and Prince George’s counties will be held on Thursday, Oct. 27 from 7 to 9 p.m. in the Gateway Building, 6751 Gateway Dr., Columbia. Discussions will include exploring alternatives for improving services and ways to implement them. For more information, visit www.kfhgroup.com/cen-

N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 6 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

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 business. Its balance sheet and capital levels have improved sharply since the financial crisis, and it’s now soundly profitable. Analysts forecast $20.6 billion in earnings this year on revenues of $96.2 billion.

JPMorgan issues many classes of preferred stock. But the recently issued Se-

ries 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.

tralmd/transitplan.html.

BEACON BITS

Oct. 29

NEED A FREE COAT? Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority will host its annual coat day, where

any Howard County resident in need of a coat may select one from a collection of donated coats on Saturday, Oct. 29 from 9:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. at the Wilde Lake Interfaith Center, 10431 Twin Rivers Rd., Columbia. The coat drive is in partnership with Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity, Wilde Lake Interfaith Center, Grace Community Church and Howard County Public School System. For more information, email Monica Pringle at jamoni16@juno.com.

Frank, Frank

& Scherr, LLC

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H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 6

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Warren Buffett’s 3 best dividend stocks

By Wayne Duggan Let’s face it — stocks are expensive, and interest rates are near all-time lows. That’s why smart long-term investors around the world are racking their brains to find value stocks that pay large, reliable dividends.

Luckily, investing in stocks is not like taking a test in school — it’s OK to look over the smart kid’s shoulder and copy.

Warren Buffett is one of the most successful value investors in history. Fortunately, each quarter we all get a chance to copy off of Buffett’s paper when Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (BRK.A, BRK.B) discloses its top holdings to the SEC and the public in its 13F filing.

Verizon Communications Inc. VZ has been one of the top performing dividend stocks in the market in 2016, gaining 16 percent on the year. Yet even after those gains, VZ still pays a generous 4.2 percent dividend.

Warren Buffett often looks to invest in companies that have a durable competitive advantage in their market. VZ has the largest share of the U.S. mobile carrier market, and it’s not likely to lose its top spot anytime soon.

The wireless carrier business has an extremely high barrier to entry that limits outside competition, which is certainly re-

PERSONAL LOANS Rates as low as:

assuring 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 stock is still a solid value at a forward price-to-earnings ratio of only 13.3.

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.

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

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N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 6 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

Don’t sell yourself short on the job hunt 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,

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, adult life teaches us many things, such as

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• Hosting a get-together in your home organizing people, keeping records, flexibility when carrying out plans. You have un- involves event planning and organizing. told numbers of transferable skills.

Narrow the generation gap A significant part of what makes you different and marYet another consideration: ketable — your “brand” — are Odds-on, the jobs you apply your transferable skills. (See for now will have you work“On the job search? How to maring with the generation laket yourself,” in the June Beabeled, “the millennials.” Incon). Regrettably, pinpointing deed, it is likely that your suthese is often challenging, bepervisor would be a millennicause they aren’t as obvious as al as well.

CAREER COACH more specific job-related skills.

The differences between

By Judy Smith your generation and the milDefine your transferable skills lennial generation are considerable. They Despite the challenge, it’s important include background and training, individthat you can name and cite specific (not ual outlook, personal style and approach to generic) examples of how and when each work. Perceived difficulties handling these of your transferable skills was used. distinctions can give rise to age bias in the Prospective employers don’t accept blan- hiring process. ket statements; they want proof.

As you think about your transferable Here’s a plan to get started: skills, here are some work-related charac• Think of a time when something you teristics that could enhance the interviewdid turned out well. (Note: Even small vic- er’s perception of a mature applicant: tories from your childhood could have • Energetic: Active, full of life, vigorous, grown into transferable skills by now.) an energetic worker.

• Tell the story surrounding this posi• Flexible: Manageable, adaptable. tive development: What was going on • Follows instructions well: Willing to around you? What problem were you or ask questions (of someone much younger others facing? What made you think your than you) to enhance understanding. approach would help?

• Broad-minded: Being tolerant in • Describe your role in producing a thought or opinion.

• Works well with others: Fits in easily. good outcome. For example: If your • Helpful: Enjoys mentoring and helpchurch or synagogue needed to raise funds, did you get items donated for a ing people solve their problems.

• Keen on continued learning and desilent auction? If you were on a committee for a special event, did you recruit/train velopment.

• Loyal: Committed to things/people the volunteers needed to make it happen? that mean a lot to you — such as your Specifically, what did you do?

• Make notes on your sense of accom- job/supervisor.

Figuring out transferable skills will go a plishment. Why were you pleased with the long way in helping you overcome a shortfall way things turned out?

Look closely for skills hidden within within a list of job requirements. You should these experiences. The words you use to showcase these skills in your resume, cover describe them can make a world of differ- letters, interviews and networking. Each time, you will be offering evidence to conence. For example: • Making purchasing decisions for your vince the employer to offer the job to you.

Judy Smith is a registered career coach. home includes budgeting and managing fiSend your job search questions to Smith at nances.

• Getting five things done in one day in- smithjudit@gmail.com or visit her website at www.judysmith.solutions. volves time management.

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H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 6

27

Websites help find the lowest drug prices

By Matthew Perrone Most people don’t shop for lower prescription drug prices. But they should — especially now that there are easier ways to do so.

More than a dozen websites and apps are vying to help U.S. consumers find the lowest prices for prescription drugs by comparing prices and searching for deals, similar to the way Expedia looks for cheap airfare or Bankrate.com looks for low mortgage rates.

“Patients want to see a pharmacy that said ‘every-day low prices,’ but most pharmacies can’t achieve that because the way prices are configured is pure mayhem,” said Professor Darius Lakdawalla, a health economist at the University of Southern California. “That’s why consumers need to know: ‘Where can I get my beta blocker for the best price?’”

Recent studies show that more than one in five prescriptions in the U.S. go unfilled, in part due to financial hardship. Yet only 17 percent of U.S. consumers are willing to check multiple pharmacies for lower drug prices, according to a survey by Consumer Reports.

Q: What do these services do?

Websites and apps like GoodRx and WeRx are doing two basic things: searching local pharmacy prices, and then applying various discounts and coupons available to customers.

The search results will show, for example, that a 30-day supply of a common cholesterol drug is $11 at Wal-Mart and $13 at a Kroger pharmacy. In both cases, the price is linked to a coupon that the app downloads so the customer can give it to the pharmacist.

The web services find the best deals available each day by keeping track of the complex, nearly-constant negotiations between pharmacies, drugmakers and pharmacy benefit managers that result in wide price disparities for commonly used medications.

“We’re trying to give you a baseline of information so that you can make the right decision,” said Doug Hirsch, founder and CEO of GoodRx, the largest and oldest of the services.

GoodRx, founded in 2011, offers 25 million users access to discounts from pharmacies, drugmakers and pharmacy benefit managers. Newer services include BlinkHealth, which said it negotiates lower drug prices by pooling its users with customers of pharmacy benefit managers. Each of the companies claims to have the lowest prices available, so consumers may want to shop around.

Q: Who stands to benefit most from these services?

Patients who are taking several generic drugs and have no insurance or high copays. Most of the largest savings to be had are for generic drugs, where competition between multiple manufacturers and pharmacies leads to a wide range of prices.

Discounts on newer, branded drugs are harder to find, since they are typically produced by one company that doesn’t have to cut prices to compete. Still, services like

GoodRx can link to drugmaker coupons that bring down the price of even high-end drugs like Humira, an injectable treatment for psoriasis.

These coupons irk insurers because they entice patients to opt for the branded drug by making the out-of-pocket cost to the patient comparable to that of a generic — but they don’t reduce the higher cost the insurer has to pay for the medication.

Still, it helps patients reduce the amount of money leaving their wallets.

Some of the priciest drugs won’t appear on pharmacy apps at all. Specialty cancer drugs like Avastin, for example, must be administered at a doctor’s office and aren’t available at the pharmacy.

Q: How do these discounts work with my health insurance?

They don’t. The prices quoted by apps need to be paid by the consumer, and can’t

be used to lower your co-pay. However, the services’ cash prices are often less than patients’ co-pays, especially for those in highdeductible health plans.

For example, it may be cheaper to fill a $4 prescription for a generic drug at WalMart or Target than to use your insurance and pay a $12 co-pay. In these cases, pharmacy apps simply direct customer traffic to long-standing offers at big-box stores.

In other cases, the services provide a streamlined way of obtaining coupons and discounts that consumers would otherwise have to juggle on their own.

Q: So where do these discounts come from?

In some ways, pharmacy apps are just updating a decades-old business. Many of the offers found on GoodRx and similar services come from discount programs offered by prescription benefit managers

like MedImpact and OptumRx. Those companies are best known for negotiating lower drug prices on behalf of large employers and insurers, but they also have separate businesses offering discount pharmacy cards to consumers who pay cash. The cards have been distributed through the mail, newspapers and magazines for more than 20 years.

Pharmacies like the programs because they ensure a steady stream of cash-paying customers. And the card programs pocket a small percent of each transaction, a sortof finder’s fee. This is also one of the ways that the new services make money.

GoodRx pulls together discounts offered by six pharmacy benefit companies.

Consumers who don’t want to use the website or the app can send away for a GoodRx pharmacy discount card.

— AP

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H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 6

Say you saw it in the Beacon

Travel

29

Leisure &

Tourists can visit African wildlife with safari guides-in-training. See story on page 31.

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 evidenced by how meticulously the homes See SAN FRANCISCO, page 30

30

Leisure & Travel | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

San Francisco From page 29 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

N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 6 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

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.

love waited “above the blue and windy sea” and where the “golden sun will shine for me.” It still does.

If you go 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.

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

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Live Life. Lakeside.

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 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.

Letters to editor From page 2 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.

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WASHINGTON ART MUSEUMS

Recreation & Parks is offering a bus trip to the heart of Washington, D.C. on Thursday, Nov. 10, leaving at 9 a.m. and returning at 5 p.m. The bus drops off passengers at the National Art Gallery on the National Mall, then picks them up again for the return trip. Visitors are on their own to sightsee and shop in the museum stores. For registration and more information, call (410) 313-7275 or go to www.howardcountymd.gov/rap.

Nov. 14

VOLUNTEER MENTORS, TUTORS NEEDED

The A-OK (Assist Our Kids) Mentoring-Tutoring program is holding an information session for potential volunteers on Monday, Nov. 14 at 1 p.m. at the Hawthorne Center, 6175 Sunny Spring, Columbia. Volunteers should be available weekdays during daytime hours to meet one-on-one with Howard County elementary school students to enhance their academic and social development. To learn more or to sign up for the session, visit www.aokmentor.org.

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 6

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Leisure & Travel

31

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.

“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 ultiSee SAFARI, page 32

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N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 6 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

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 Proj-

ect 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.

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

Safari From page 31 mate 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/

BEACON BITS

Oct. 29

FUN WALK AND “TRUCK OR TREAT”

The Gary J. Arthur Community Center will kick off its 10year anniversary with a one mile Fun Run & Walk followed by “Truck or Treat” — a gathering of county service vehicles including a fire truck, ambulance and police cars — on Saturday, Oct. 29 at the Center, 2400 Rte. 97, Cooksville. Children must be at least 3 years old for the Fun Walk, which starts at 9:30 a.m., and has a fee of $10 for members, $15 for non-members. The free “Truck or Treat” is open from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Halloween costumes are encouraged. For more information on both events, visit www.visithowardcounty.com or call Stephanie Simon at (410) 313-4844.

Nov. 19

AIRPLANES GALORE

Recreation & Parks is offering a bus trip to the Smithsonian Air & Space Museum in Chantilly, Va., on Saturday, Nov. 19 for adults and children at least 4 years old. The bus leaves at 9 a.m. and returns at 4 p.m. To reserve a place on the trip, which costs $49, or for more information, call (410) 313-7275 or visit www.howardcountymd.gov/rap.

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 6

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Leisure & Travel

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N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 6 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

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Style Arts &

Ashley Johnson, as Sister Clarence, lights up the stage at Toby’s in Sister Act.

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?

Toby’s productions of Memphis and The Wiz, lends her powerhouse voice to Deloris — whether she is praising the Lord or look-

Spirited cast Ashley Johnson, who also starred in

See SISTER ACT, page 36

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301-644-1604 410-795-8801

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Arts & Style

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 6

35

Center forges friendships for 50+ years

A quarter century with the club Nan Tripp, a resident of Fulton in Howard County, joined the club in 1991, was president from 2001-2011, puts out the club newsletter, and was described by Mayhugh as “the backbone” of the LFSC. She says simply that her quarter of century at the club “has kept me healthy and happy.”

A federal retiree who worked 25 years for the Navy and 12 years at the Federal Drug Administration, the 84-year-old Tripp said she made her principal goal as president to get members for the center.

Named the Laurel-Beltsville Senior Activities Center, it opened in 2011 at a cost of $9.5 million. Its official motto in these often trying times: “Think positive.”

Among the activities offered at the cen-

ter are computer classes, a ceramics workshop, a woodworking shop, a pool room, a fitness center, a “great room” where dinners, meetings and celebratory activities are held, as well as “a beautiful lobby and plenty of space” for card games.

During office hours, a copy machine, computer and telephone are available to members at no charge.

“I’ve made many, many new friends over the years,” said Tripp. “I really enjoy working with other seniors. Our members do not stay at home much. We travel a lot,” she added.

Jean Flannick, 83, certainly took advantage of the club’s travel opportunities, going as far as Fiji, New Zealand and Australia with the club in 1994. An LSFC member since 1988 — she joined with her husband Anthony, who passed away four years ago — Flannick strongly recommends that area retirees join the club because “there just is so much to do: volunteer activities, member meetings, food service, wonderful trips. No rest for the elderly.”

An evolving organization The LSFC officially began March 3, 1966 when 28 members — whose names can no longer be recalled by current club officials — met at the Laurel Presbyterian Church on Sandy Spring Road. The club went on to get a charter in 1969 from Prince George’s County Division of Services and Programs for the Aging.

Over the years, meetings were held at the former Laurel City Hall, the old Laurel High School, as well as members’ homes, among other places.

After 10 years of what the club calls a “struggle,” a special committee that was set up to find a new site and raise sufficient funds was successful.

Bernard Buczynski, 81, and wife Carol, 75, joined some 20 years ago. The Anne Arundel County residents had retired — he was a high school administrator — and were “looking for something to do…We found lots of things.”

Through the club, the couple has gone on several cruises, casino trips, treks to Bronson, Mo. (where semi-retired show biz legends put on live shows), and has done volunteer work.

PHOTO BY CHRIS MYERS

By Robert Friedman If you are 50-plus, have time on your hands, and are looking to make new friends, take part in more activities, and/or travel (whether to nearby Baltimore, or to faraway Fiji), the Laurel Senior Friendship Club (LSFC) may be just what you need.

The club, which earlier this year celebrated its 50th anniversary, is still going strong, having grown from an idea by its six founding mothers, who yearned to “share the joy of growing old together,” to its current membership of 468.

“We expect to keep growing since we opened our new, state-of-the-art senior activity center [on Contee Road in Laurel],” said LSFC President Ron Mayhugh. “We have room at the center for new members.”

Dues are $15 a year until a member reaches her or his 88th birthday, after which members are given free lifetime membership.

While the club’s activity center is located in Prince George’s County, Laurel itself sits at the border of Howard and Anne Arundel counties. So the club draws members from all those areas, said Mayhugh, 77.

He noted that there has been a recent influx of the “young 50s crowd,” but the club also has three centenarian members.

The club activity that draws the largest membership? The Tuesday evening bingo sessions, when 100 to 120 players usually show up.

Nan Tripp, who lives in Fulton, has been a member of the Laurel Senior Friendship Club for 25 years, and served as its president from 2001-2011. The organization, which celebrated its 50th anniversary this year, offers activities and trips near and far for its 468 members.

Bernard, who is a member of the club choir, which opens the monthly members’ meetings with song, is now taking computer classes at the center ($15 for a 20-hour class on how to work online with digital photos).

“I’m learning how to crop and scan photos,” he said. “The instructors are wonderful.”

Buczynski added that he was taking the

classes, among other reasons, “to keep up with my 16-year-old grandson.”

Another computer class student, Helen Rushing, 87, said the classes “are affordable, and the teachers have the patience of Job.” To learn more, see the club’s website at https://lsfclaurel.wordpress.com or call (301) 206-3380.

BEHZOD ABDURAIMOV Sat Oct 29, 8 pm Winner of the London International Piano Competition PRE-CONCERT LECTURE

7 pm

MODIGLIANI RTET QUARTET Sun Nov 20, 4 pm ”Awesome and individual communal brilliance” - The Strad

FREE LECTURE: “REVEALING RAVEL AND MODIGLIANI” IGLIANI”

Tue Nov 15, 7 pm Columbia Art Center Stephen Ackert, Music Program m Advisor for the National Gallery of Art, will explore the works of Maurice Ravel and Amedeo Modigliani.

Concert Tickets: $35 410-997-2324 | www.candlelightconcerts.org htconccer erts ts.org org

Smith Theatre | Horowitz Center | Howard ward Community College

36

Arts & Style | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

Sister Act From page 34 ing to escape the confines of the Queen of Angels. Her vocals do just what two of Sister Act’s major anthems ask: “Take Me to Heaven” and “Raise Your Voice.”

Her infectious energy infuses the show, from the first scene in a disco with her gold jump-suited backup singers, to the closing flamboyant and sparkling spectacle in the church.

She gets some help from composer Alan Menken, whose other shows include Beauty and the Beast, Little Shop of Horrors and Newsies, and who collaborated on The Little Mermaid with Sister Act lyricist Glenn Slater. Some of the fun also comes

from writers Cherie and Bill Steinkellner, who also lent their comedic talents to TV’s “Cheers.”

The cadre of sisters also adds to the glee. There’s young postulate Sister Mary Robert, played with wide-eyed innocence

by Theresea Danskey, and Sister Mary Lazarus, aptly named, on the other end of the age spectrum, who is deftly portrayed

by Lynne Sigler. She transitions from stern old-school choral leader to sprightly disco-era choir convert during the show.

And speaking of age, unlike many musicals, Toby’s has filled several other roles with agile over-50 actors. These include a no-nonsense Mother Superior who harbors a heart of gold (Lynn Sharp-Spears) and Monsignor O’Hara (Robert John Bie-

BEACON BITS

Oct. 28+

GALLERY REOPENS

After July’s devastating floods in Ellicott City, the HorseSpirit Arts Gallery has rebuilt and will open again on Friday, Oct. 28 with a series of events. The gallery features the work of 42 local artists The gallery is located at 8090 Main St. in historic Ellicott City. Opening events (all free) include a dressy reopening on Friday, October 28 from 6 to 10 p.m. On Saturday, Oct. 29 at 1 p.m., County Executive Allan Kittleman, with Ellicott City District Representative Jon Weinstein and the Howard County Chamber of Commerce, will preside over a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Saturday evening there will be a costume party from 6 to 10 p.m., and on Sunday, Oct. 30 from noon to 3 p.m. there will be a cupcake social. For more information, contact gallery owner Robin Holliday at 410-782-5677 or email HorseSpiritArts@verizon.net.

N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 6 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

dermann; look for him pulling double duty as the emcee before the show).

Another standout is younger cast member Hassani Allen, who gives crooning cop Sweaty Eddie a bashful charm as he woos Deloris and pledges to protect her. And DeCarlo Raspberry, as Deloris’s nefarious boyfriend, has all too few solos that feature his deep, smooth voice.

Minimalist scenery rolls on and off the stage in the center of Toby’s (which doubles as the floor where dinner is served before the show). There are a few wooden dining tables and a confession booth. A table and telephone roll in to serve as the police station. Stained glass windows surround the perimeter of the theater.

Co-costume designers Lawrence B. Munsey (who also directs) and Mary Quinn have a field day delving into 1970s styles.

Deloris covets a white fox fur like Donna

Summer’s (which she gets in the final scene) and jump- and leisure suits abound.

The nun’s habits get more flashy as the show goes on, moving from somber black tied with a rope belt, to crimson, to a shimmering, light-catching fashion extravaganza in the finale that is nothing short of heavenly.

Sister Act continues at Toby’s Dinner Theatre through Nov. 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.ticketmaster.com/venue/172479.

Learn more about the show at www.tobysdinnertheatre.com. The theater is located at 5900 Symphony Woods Rd., Columbia, Md.

BEACON BITS

Nov. 5

HELP PREVENT HOMELESSNESS Bridges to Housing Stability is presenting three local and international jazz artists in concert on Saturday, Nov. 5 to bring aware-

ness to the lack of affordable housing in Howard County and the work the nonprofit Bridges to Housing Stability is doing to address it. The Gail Marten Quartet, the Ron Holloway Band, and jazz vocalist Wake Campbell will perform at 7 p.m. at the Owen Brown Interfaith Center, 7246 Cradlerock Way, Columbia. For more information or to purchase tickets ($65 each) visit www,bridges2housing.com or call (410) 312-5760.

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Arts & Style

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 6

Boomers & TV From page 1 generation and baby boomers,� said Robert Thompson, director of Syracuse University’s Bleier Center for Television and Popular Culture. Infant Desi, Jr., was soon “anointed on the cover of the first TV Guide.�

A hint of rebellion to come Thus did TV and the boomers grow up together. And as the nation overall embraced television’s early offerings — such as Milton Berle’s comedy revue, Ed Sullivan’s variety hour and “Lucy� — youngsters realized they had a special bond with TV. That is, they could use it as an embryon-

FROM PAGE 38 ANSWERS TO SCRABBLE

ic form of rebellion against their elders, years before the campus unrest with which their generation would become identified.

Those children innately understood that television, despite being welcomed into every living room, wasn’t “good� for them.

This made watching TV all the more appealing, as they fought their parents’ constant pleas to “go outside and play.�

Today, more than a half-century later, the TV experience isn’t nearly so much about viewing as immersion. It doesn’t just bring the world to the audience, it IS the world. As TV merges with the natural world, it also continues to merge with other screened devices, further increasing its presence.

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

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

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

V A T P O A

O C T O B E R R I N G

D R O L L

D E L V E

S E D E R

H I N G E

O S T I A

E Y E R

M O N A L S V A L E T E M P T Y

So where does this leave aging boomers? They may still recall a TV universe of only three or four channels on a TV screen, when the viewer had to walk to the set to change channels.

It’s been a long time since TV consecrated boomer teens with a daily rock ‘n’ roll dance show, “American Bandstand.� With

37

that, its host, Dick Clark, is said to have “created youth culture.�

Boomers, the pioneering swath of youth culture, this year observe birthdays ranging from 52 to 70.

TV is getting older, too. But unlike boomers, it enjoys constant renewal. It never looks its age, whatever that may be.

BEACON BITS

Nov. 4

ART MARYLAND RECEPTION AND EXHIBIT

The Howard County Arts Council will host a reception honoring the artists selected for representation in Art Maryland 2016 on Friday, Nov. 4 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Howard County Center for the Arts, 8510 High Ridge Rd., Ellicott City. The show includes abstracts as well as representational paintings, photography, sculpture and prints selected from some 400 entries by juror Christopher Bedford, director of the Baltimore Museum of Art. The exhibit will be on display through Friday, Dec. 9. Gallery hours are Monday through Friday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sunday noon to 4 p.m. For more information, call (410) 313-2787 or visit the website hocoarts.org.

Connect with new opportunities to flourish.™ Enjoy sophisticated senior living on a beautiful 50-acre campus that’s your gateway to personal growth!

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The Lutheran Village at MILLER’S GRANT is regulated by the Maryland Department of Aging.

MILLER’S GRANT participates with Howard County in the Moderate Income Housing Unit Program.

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N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 6 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

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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

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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

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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 37.

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 6

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.

Financial Services ACCOUNTING, TAXES AND BOOKKEEPING, eldercare. CPA 38 years, reasonable rates.

Call 410-653-3363.

For Sale 2 SALVADOR DALI woodblock prints from Dante’s Divine Comedy. Signed and framed.

Asking $900 for the pair. Can email pictures if desired. Call Steve 410-913-1653.

Home & Handyman Services 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, 443-379HAUL (4285).

Say you saw it in the Beacon

Personal Services TURN YOUR STERLING SILVER and old gold jewelry into cash and do something good for yourself. I purchase gold and silver jewelry and coins for my company Gold 4 Good. I will come to your home and provide a no-fee, noobligation estimate. If you decide to sell, I will transport you to and from my shop in Silver Spring. Local references. Montgomery County license #2327. Call Bob, 240-938-9694.

Wanted YOUR KIDS DON’T WANT YOUR STUFF. Sell your heirloom silver and gold jewelry and old coins. Licensed dealer in Silver Spring buys gold and silver. I will meet you at your home or bank, analyze your jewelry, or coins, and tell you how much I can pay if you should decide to sell. No fees or obligation. Call Bob, 240-9389694. Gold 4 Good. 8431 Georgia Avenue, Silver Spring. License #2327. I have references.

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.

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.

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.

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 Wanted

Wanted

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, 301-910-0783.

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, 240-476-3441.

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.

Thanks for reading!

BEACON BITS

Nov. 20

CHAMBER MUSIC CONCERT

The Modigliani string quartet will perform for the Candlelight Concert Society on Sunday, Nov. 20 at 4 p.m. at the Smith Theatre at Howard Community College, 10901 Little Patuxent Pkwy., Columbia.

For ticket information, visit candlelightconcerts.org or call (410) 997-2324.

ADVERTISERS IN THIS ISSUE Clinical Research Studies

Housing

Retail/Services

Dementia Behavior Study . . . . . . . .12

Alta at Regency Crest . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Brooke Grove . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32, 40 Buckingham’s Choice/Integrace . . .34 Charlestown/Erickson Living . . . . .10 Fairhaven/Integrace . . . . . . . . . . . . .34 Gatherings at Quarry Place/Beazer Homes . . . .30 Heartlands of Ellicott City . . . . . . . .3 Homecrest House . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Lutheran Village at Miller’s Grant .37 Olney Assisted Living . . . . . . . . . . .17 Park View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27 Shriner Court/Quantum . . . . . . . . .26 Vantage House . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-9

Bathwraps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33 Columbia’s Village Centers . . . . . .36 Kugler Design Center . . . . . . . .16, 28 Magic Mountain Chimney Sweeps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Senior CompuCare . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

Events COGS Meeting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Howard County Early Voting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

Financial Services PENFED Credit Union . . . . . . . . . .25 Moriarity Financial Services . . . . .24

Funeral Services Harry H. Witzke’s Family Funeral Home, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . .37 Going Home Cremations . . . . . . . .26 Sol Levinson & Bros., Inc. . . . . . . .25

Hearing Services Miracle-Ear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

Home Health Care A-1 Action Nursing Care . . . . . . . .13 Hands That Touch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Options for Senior America . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35

39

Legal Services Frank, Frank & Scherr, LLC . . . . . .24 Law Office of Karen Ellsworth . . .25

Medical/Health AMS Men’s Health . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Columbia Advanced Dental Studio 13 Low Vision Specialists . . . . . . . . . .11 Medical Eye Center . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 World Class Chiropractic . . . . . . . . .7

Senior Services The 50+ Connection . . . . . . . . .19-22

Skilled Nursing & Rehab CommuniCare . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Subscription Services The Beacon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38

Theatre/Entertainment Candlelight Concerts . . . . . . . . . . .35 Toby’s Dinner Theatre . . . . . . . . . . .34

Tour & Travel Eyre Tour & Travel . . . . . . . . . . . . .31 Nexus Holidays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31

40 More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 6 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

November 2016

UPCOMING SEMINARS & EVENTS at Brooke Grove retirement village

As experts in senior care and memory support, Brooke Grove Retirement Village is pleased to offer seminars and events that promote physical, spiritual and mental well-being. eevents ts will be held at Brooke Grove Rehabilitation n andd Nursing ur All seminars an and ev Center, located Village ca campus. at at 18131 Slade School ch ol Road on the Brooke Grovee Retirement eti a pu Please register with Toni ni Davis at 301-388-7209 72 or tdavis@bgf.org.

SUPPORT FOR THE CAREGIVER SEMINAR: AR “Sensory stimuli and Alzheimer’s” November 8, 2-3 p.m.

When someone with Alzheimer’s or dementia can no longer make sense of complex sensory stimuli, he/she can still experience enjoyable sensations.

Discover diverse activities that can increase socialization, self-concept, positive emotions, alertness and concentration. FREE. Register by November 6.

Living Well seminar: “Medicare 2017 - what you need to know to get the best benefits” November 9, 7-8:15 p.m.

Get answers to questions such as “What do Medicare A and B cover?” and “What state and federal programs am I eligible for?”

Seminar preceded by complimentary light supper at 6:30 p.m. FREE. Register by November 7.

Alzheimer’s support group November 16 16, 3:30-4:30 p.m.

Sponsored by thee Alzheimer’s Association, this A confidential group provides an opportunity for gr individuals and families to find support, gain understanding and share caregiving tips. FREE. nd

18100 Slade School Road Sandy Spring, MD 20860 301-260-2320 www.bgf.org

Independent living

assisted living

rehabilitation

long-term care

memory ry support