November 2018 | Howard County Beacon

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More than 30,000 readers throughout Howard County

Heated book on climate change

Finding truth in fiction Why the switch from nonfiction writing? Dipping into a bit of literary theory, the lifelong scientist said that the “lies” of fiction can sometimes get to greater truths.

Tillman believes fiction can help save the Earth, noting that that literature “certainly has, going back to Uncle Tom’s

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PHOTO BY CHRISTOPHER MYERS

By Robert Friedman “I really believe it is the greatest challenge of this century — that our children and grandchildren will suffer significantly in their lives if we do not act.”

That’s the message that geologist, environmental scientist and author Ned Tillman, 68, would like to convey as he writes, speaks and takes whatever steps he can to help slow down what he believes could become a calamitous change in the Earth’s climate.

Tillman has lived in Howard County for 40 years, the last dozen of those in Columbia. He has led environmental and energy companies, and was an earth science consultant at the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory.

In recent years, he authored two awardwinning works of nonfiction dealing with the environment: The Chesapeake Watershed: A Sense of Place and a Call to Action and Saving the Places We Love: Paths Toward Environmental Stewardship.

But in an effort to reach a broader public (and the leaders of the future), he has written his first novel, The Big Melt. He says the self-published book is principally aimed at middle and high school students, but he also invites Beacon readers to give the 237-page soft-cover book a look.

“While I hope teenagers will read and be inspired by the book, I think older readers would love it,” said the author.

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The attractions of Delaware’s mansions, gardens and more; plus, shopping and dining in Israel’s ancient port city of Jaffa page 26

ARTS & STYLE Columbia resident Ned Tillman’s first novel, The Big Melt, follows two teens as they confront climate change in their Maryland town. Tillman, a former member of the Howard County Environmental Sustainability Board, has also written two non-fiction books about environmental issues.

Cabin” — the 19th century novel credited with having had a profound effect on antislavery attitudes.

His novel is set in the town of Sleepy Valley, and is “based on my experiences living in Maryland. It could be anytown U.S.A.,” he said.

In the book, few, if any, citizens of the

town are aware of the dangers of global warming. But when the protagonists, Marley and Brianne, wake up the day after their high school graduation, they find a series of climate catastrophes have turned their lives and the lives of everyone in the See CLIMATE CHANGE, page 36

The Candlelight Concert Society lights up the stage; plus, cookbooks that help when company is coming page 34

TECHNOLOGY k The limits of electric cars

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FITNESS & HEALTH 7 k The coffee and cancer question k Worrying about forgetfulness LAW & MONEY k Time to rebalance portfolio k Pull these out of your wallet

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THE 50+ CONNECTION 19 k Newsletter from Howard County Office on Aging & Independence ADVERTISER DIRECTORY

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Congrats all around First, I want to congratulate the winners A pat on the back of our Celebration of the Arts amateur art I also want to congratulate our own writcompetition. You may have ing staff and our wonderful seen the special insert we freelancers for their awardran in our September issue, winning work. describing the contest and Each year, we enter a selecgiving brief bios of our first, tion of our writers’ original stosecond and third place winries in two national journalism ners in each of the four catecompetitions. We do so both to gories. be sure we are keeping up the It was only days ago, howquality of our writing comever, that we held the Awards pared with other publications Ceremony for all the winners, throughout the country, and to including honorable men- FROM THE give our writers the opportunitions, and I had the opportu- PUBLISHER ty to earn recognition they will nity to meet many of the By Stuart P. Rosenthal treasure from well-respected, artists. What a wonderful, diobjective judges. verse group of multi-talented individuals!

I’m happy and proud to report that While our main exhibition of all win- every one of our regular writers and freening works will take place later this year lancers came away with one or more honin Washington, D.C., we are pleased to ors in this year’s competitions. have a mini-exhibition of Howard County We always enter the journalism compeand Baltimore area winners at Balti- tition held by the North American Mature more’s Myerberg Center from Oct. 24 to Publishers Association (NAMPA), the asNov. 14. sociation for newspapers and magazines A closing reception is being host- geared to the 50+ market. ed by the Myerberg from 4 to 5:30 NAMPA’s annual competition attracts hunp.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 14. Space is dreds of submissions every year and is limited, so if you would like to come, judged by internationally respected faculty at please RSVP to arts@thebeacon- the University of Missouri School of Journalnewspapers.com no later than Wed., ism. This year, we received 17 NAMPA Nov. 7. awards.

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The Beacon is a monthly newspaper dedicated to inform, serve, and entertain the citizens of the Greater Baltimore area, and is privately owned. Other editions serve Howard County, Md., Greater Washington, DC and Richmond, Va. (Fifty Plus).

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

The Beacon is presented the “Best of Show” award and trophy at the annual meeting of the North American Mature Publishers Association (NAMPA) held in Orlando last month.

Shown are Kevin Van Gundy, NAMPA president; Alan Spiegel, Beacon VP of sales; Stuart Rosenthal, Beacon publisher; and Gary Calligas, NAMPA executive director.

Robert Friedman, who regularly writes cover and arts stories for the Howard County Beacon, won three awards in this competition.

Robert won first place in feature writing for his June 2018 cover story, “A touching new profession,” about the trend of professional cuddling. The judge’s comments called it a “well-reported piece,” and added “the author does an outstanding job of covering an odd but fast-growing discipline with exactly the right examples and tone.”

Robert won second place in the topical issue category for his May 2018 cover story, “Reducing opioids’ heavy toll,” which the judge praised as “a thoughtful look at what needs to be done, and the impact that opioid abuse can have on a family.” His third place award was for his arts story, “Libraries branch out with ukulele lessons,” from our August issue.

In the Baltimore Beacon, our long-time Contributing Editor Carol Sorgen won first place in the how-to category for her November 2017 cover about older adults driving for Uber and Lyft.

Our relatively new Richmond area publication, Fifty Plus, won three awards: a first and third place in the profile category, and second place for best cover photo.

And our Greater Washington edition took eight first place awards, a second place, plus overall Best of Show. Those awards went to Barbara Ruben for her cover story on “Raising awareness of dementia,” Rebekah

Alcalde, for her cover story “Startups focus on better aging,” our travel writer Victor Block, honored for four different travel features, our book reviewer Dinah Rokach, our columnist Bob Levey, our student columnist Alexis Bentz and myself.

In addition, we won first place for “overall excellence,” and our website, www.thebeaconnewspapers.com, which was completely overhauled earlier this year, won first place for best website.

The declared goal of another competition, the National Mature Media Awards, is “to recognize the nation’s ‘best and brightest’ materials and programs produced every year for older adults.”

The prestigious competition attracts entries from national organizations and publications, including AARP, the Mayo Clinic and the Arthritis Foundation. So we are especially proud that all 12 of our entries won honors in this year’s competition.

A cover story on “Opposing views on immigration” from the Howard County Beacon won a Silver Award for Robert Friedman.

Carol Sorgen won Silver Awards for both her February and April cover stories, “Many upsides to downsizing,” and “Getting up to speed on tech.”

Our relatively new Richmond area publication, Fifty Plus, earned both a Silver and a Bronze award for two of our writers from that area.

See FROM THE PUBLISHER, page 13

• Vice President, Sales & Marketing ....Alan Spiegel • Managing Editor............................Barbara Ruben • Art Director ........................................Kyle Gregory • Director of Operations ........................Roger King • Advertising Representatives .................................. ................................Barbara Koscielski, Steve Levin • Assistant Editor ..........................Rebekah Alcalde

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

The Beacon welcomes reader contributions. Deadline for editorial is the 1st of the month preceding the month of publication. Deadline for ads is the 1st of the month preceding the month of publication. See page 39 for classified advertising details. Please mail or email all submissions.

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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.

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Technology &

Innovations Are electric cars ready for prime time yet? miles. My destination: a charging station nine miles away.

Electric-car early adopters are now shaking their heads at my plight and saying, “Well, duh, Dave. You’ve got to plan ahead.”

But that’s exactly my point: Who does that?

Gasoline-powered cars, hybrids included, require only a modicum of attention to keep them fueled. In most areas, gas stations are abundant, and the refueling experience is as consistent as grabbing fast food. You can pick the station based on the quality of the gas, or whether they sell lottery tickets inside.

When was the last time you pulled up to See ELECTRIC CARS, page 6

PHOTO COURTESY OF VOLKSWAGON

By David Muhlbaum I recall two moments distinctly from my recent drive in a Volkswagen e-Golf, an allelectric car. The first was marveling at how this vehicle’s instantly available torque made it the best car I’d ever found for the cut-and-thrust of city driving.

The second came only 80 miles or so later, as I was feather-footing the same car in the right lane of a divided highway, windows fogged because the air-conditioning was disabled, with a dashboard full of warning messages (including an illuminated turtle to let me know that all that zip I had enjoyed was gone).

Most critically, the car’s range gauge indicated it had juice to go only 10 more

The Volkswagon e-Golf is an entirely electric (battery powered) vehicle, requiring it to be plugged in and recharged about every 150 miles. Unlike hybrids, no gas engine kicks in when power is low.

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e-commerce sites such as Amazon.com, look for the three P’s: Place. Check the manufacturer’s website to find a list of authorized third-party distributors. If the seller’s name isn’t on it, chances are the website is selling fakes.

You can also check sellers’ authenticity by contacting them directly. If they don’t get back to you, the phone number is out of service, or you can’t understand the response, don’t give them your business.

Packaging. Legitimate brands spend a lot of money on packaging. If the product’s listing states that there’s no packaging available with the item, that should be a warning sign that the item is a fake.

Price. Be skeptical of an extremely low price. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Other red flags include extra-long shipping times, no established return policy, and suspicious reviews in the feedback section of the website. If the reviews are nearly identical, unabashedly positive and contain a lot of misspellings, they probably aren’t legitimate. © 2018 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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By Ilya Kneppelhout Online shopping could be hazardous to your wealth — and your health. An investigation by the Government Accountability Office, a federal watchdog agency, found that many products sold by third-party sellers on popular websites such as Amazon.com and Walmart.com were counterfeit — and dangerous — and were often a total waste of money.

Cheap, substandard phone chargers could electrocute users, the GAO said, and bogus cosmetics have contained mercury, lead and other hazardous substances.

Other frequently counterfeited items included batteries, travel mugs, contact lenses and toothpaste.

“Counterfeiting is not a victimless crime.

It kills people,” said Bob Barchiesi, president of the International AntiCounterfeiting Coalition, a nonprofit industry group.

Counterfeiters have designed products that closely resemble the genuine items, making it increasingly difficult to spot fakes.

Still, there are ways to protect yourself. Your safest bet is to buy directly from the manufacturer’s website and pay a little more.

If you’re a bargain shopper, the item you want is out of stock, or it’s only available on

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Electric cars From page 4 a filling station where none of the pumps worked? Or the nozzle didn’t fit your car?

Or there was only one pump, and the guy ahead of you needed four hours to fill up?

As I sought to recharge my loaner electric, all of those things happened to me, triggering a condition the industry calls range anxiety. It felt more like range panic.

The e-Golf I drove is a battery electric vehicle (BEV). It had an electric motor where a gasoline engine would be and a battery instead of a fuel tank. So, no plug, no go.

BEVs sit at one extreme of the range of power choices for cars. At the other end are internal combustion vehicles that only burn fuel (what we used to just call cars).

In between are hybrids that have both electric motors and gas engines, which help charge the batteries and propel the car (think Toyota Prius). There are also plug-in hybrids with big batteries. If you

charge them up at an outlet, the cars will run on electricity alone for a number of miles before their gas engines kick in.

The future of driving?

Electric cars have many merits. Besides quick acceleration, and the potential for lower operating costs (because they don’t need gas), they don’t pollute from the tailpipe.

That’s why big money is being thrown at electric cars around the world. China, in particular, subsidizes them heavily because it wants to meet rising consumer demand for cars and improve its cities’ often-dismal air quality.

Not surprisingly, a lot of studies point to many more electric cars in the global future. But is one in your future? That is, will you buy a battery electric as your next vehicle? I doubt it.

Sure, there are always the early adopters, who have the commitment and money to make a statement (looking at you, Tesla bros,

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with your vanity tags saying “ENVT 1,” “4GET GAS” and such).

However, if your driving habits take you more than, say, 150 miles from home more than a few times a year, it’s hard to see a true electric working out as your primary vehicle, given the primitive state of the recharging architecture.

My wife’s cousins, Alex Horowitz and Emily Diamond-Falk, are about as green as they come. But even they didn’t go fully electric for their first car.

“As a one-car household, an all-electric would have covered 90 percent of our driving,” Emily explained. “But that last 10 percent matters, too.” They opted for a Chevrolet Volt, a plug-in hybrid. On longer trips, such as the 650-mile drives they take to visit her mom in Michigan, the gas engine kicks in, saving them the hunt for a charger.

Are they cost-effective?

That said, BEVs do work for some peo-

ple. Got a predictable commute and room for a charger at home? You could save money because electrics are inherently more efficient than gas cars at turning energy into motion.

Take my e-Golf: Running it 100 miles would cost about $3.60 for the electricity.

For a gas-burning Golf, it would cost $10.50 in gasoline.

While the manufacturer’s suggested retail price on the e-Golf is substantially higher than the gas model, a $7,500 federal tax credit is currently available.

Another electric cost-saver: Lower maintenance costs, starting with no oil changes. Those savings might cover a few car rentals if you need a car with the range for a proper road trip.

What about Tesla? The cars are impressive, sure, with mind-blowing acceleration and range well over 200 miles. But, for now, they’re very, very costly.

In case you’re wondering whether I reached the charger or had to call for a flatbed to haul away a now-useless car (remember, a friend can’t bring you a can of electrons), I’m proud to say that I made it.

The destination was Washington Dulles International Airport in Virginia, where my ChargePoint app said there were eight charging plugs in the daily garage, some of which were available.

That was technically true: When I crawled into the parking garage, several of the chargers (analogous to pumps) were ready to deliver juice, as the last customers’ cars were fully charged. But those cars were all still in the parking spots, with their owners off to Dubuque — or Dubai.

With the e-Golf’s last few watts, I blocked a few of them in, unplugged one of the space hogs and made the charging cord stretch out to the aisle. I hooked up for my “free” electricity — enough charge to make it home — and fell into fitful sleep in the driver’s seat. I then had to pay $17 to get out of the garage. © 2018 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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Nov. 15

OFFER INPUT ON MARYLAND DEVELOPMENT PLANS

The Maryland Department of Planning is traveling statewide in a second round of outreach for the new state development plan, A Better Maryland. Officials are continuing to look for input on how to best facilitate community planning and development, from environmental protection to economic development. A session will be held Thursday, Nov. 15 at 7 p.m. at the East Columbia Branch Library, 6600 Cradlerock Way, Columbia. To learn more, see http://abetter.maryland.gov.

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Health Fitness &

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DIFFERENT DEMENTIAS There are many different kinds of dementia; some are reversible FEWER MIGRAINES The FDA recently approved a monthly shot to prevent chronic migraines BEYOND NORMAL MEMORY LOSS Mild cognitive impairment can affect concentration, thinking and speaking THE PRUNE’S OTHER POWERS Prunes help strengthen bones, lower blood pressure and may boost memory

Coffee and the ‘cancer-causing’ chemical ing regarding the potential side effects of coffee, or its benefits.

Many studies have explored whether there is a potential link between drinking coffee and cancer. None has convincingly linked acrylamide in coffee (or coffee in general) to one’s risk of cancer, and there is plenty of research.

The amount of acrylamide in coffee varies, and is quite small compared to amounts found to cause cancer in animals. In addition, there are other sources of acrylamide exposure no one is making a fuss over, including bread, potato chips and breakfast cereals. It’s also found in cigarettes.

While future research could find a link between coffee and cancer, there’s no particular reason to expect that to happen. In the meantime, if you are worried about acrylamide, you can limit your exposure to it by not smoking and by eating less fried, burnt or charred foods.

Also avoid coffee substitutes and instant coffee, which contain higher amounts of acrylamide than regular coffee.

Perhaps we will discover ways of reducing or even eliminating acrylamide in the coffee roasting process. But it’s not clear that changing how coffee is roasted will actually improve your health.

PHOTO BY MONKEY BUSINESS IMAGES

Q: As I coffee lover, I have been happy to read about its health benefits. However, I am a bit disturbed by the suggestion that one of its ingredients causes cancer.

What’s your opinion?

A: Indeed, the news on coffee is mostly good. This includes the results of a recent study that found coffee drinkers live longer, a conclusion that held up even for heavy coffee consumption (eight or more cups of coffee each day), and regardless of whether the coffee was caffeinated or not.

And longevity was linked to coffee consumption regardless of what type of caffeine metabolism genes you carry. The authors concluded that the health benefits of coffee go beyond caffeine.

I suspect your question is related to an effort in California to require a notification to coffee consumers of a possible link to cancer.

Here’s the reason: in 1986, California passed Proposition 65, which requires businesses to provide a warning label when exposing any consumer to any item on a long list of potentially harmful chemicals. Acrylamide is on that list, and coffee contains acrylamide — a chemical produced during the roasting process.

Nothing has changed in our understand-

Coffee drinkers live longer, and there have been no studies convincingly linking coffee drinkers to cancer.

As is so often the case with potentially carcinogenic toxins, we’ll need additional research to determine whether the amount of acrylamide in coffee and other foods and drinks matters a little, a lot, or not at all.

Robert H. Shmerling, M.D., is Associate

Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School. For additional consumer health information, visit www.health.harvard.edu. © 2018 President and Fellows of Harvard College. All rights reserved. Distributed

by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Do you still need to do breast self-exams?

Dear Mayo Clinic: I’m confused about breast self-exams.

I’m 45 years old, and I remember being told to do self-exams monthly. At one point, my healthcare provider even gave me a laminated card to put in the shower that showed the correct technique.

Now it seems self-exams aren’t talked about much anymore. Are we still supposed to do them?

Answer: You are correct that the role of breast self-exams has changed. While detailed breast self-exams no longer are recommended as part of formal screening for breast cancer, it is still important for you to know how your breasts usually look and feel.

That way, if anything changes, you will be more likely to notice the difference.

Breast self-awareness can help you become more familiar with your own breasts, so you understand what’s normal for you.

In the past, healthcare providers often

recommended that women do breast selfexams regularly using a step-by-step approach to detect signs of breast cancer.

Although breast self-exams seemed like a good way for women to find breast cancer in its early stages, research showed that those self-exams triggered more breast tests and biopsies being done that came back with normal findings (sometimes called false positives) in women who did breast self-exams, compared to women who did not do the exams.

Now, instead of using detailed selfexams as part of a formal breast cancer screening process, healthcare providers recommend breast self-awareness, so that women become familiar with the normal look and feel of their breasts.

That way, if you notice a change in your breast, such as a lump or bump that seems out of the ordinary to you, you can tell your healthcare provider about it. From

there, the two of you can decide if any further investigation is needed.

Get clinical exams, mammograms Although it is a good idea for you to be aware of the typical look and feel of your breasts, keep in mind that breast self-awareness can’t replace a clinical breast exam conducted by your healthcare provider.

And breast self-awareness should not replace screening mammograms or other breast cancer screening tests that your healthcare provider recommends.

Mammograms continue to play a key role in early breast cancer detection and have been shown to help decrease breast cancer deaths.

Screening mammograms often can detect breast changes in women who have no new noticeable breast abnormalities or any other signs or symptoms of cancer.

The goal of these screening mammograms

is to detect cancer in its earliest stage, before you’d be able to notice any changes.

Take time to talk to your healthcare provider about the approach to breast cancer screening that’s right for you. Factors that can make a difference in that approach include your age, medical background and family history, among others.

Discuss the benefits, risks and limitations of screening tools, such as mammograms, and decide together what is best for your situation.

— Karthik Ghosh, M.D., Breast Diagnostic Clinic, 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) © 2018 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. All rights reserved.

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N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 8 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

Distinguishing Alzheimer’s from dementia Dear Savvy Senior: What’s the dif ference between Alzheimer’s disease and dementia? My aunt has dementia, but they don’t know if she has Alzheimer’s disease, which is very confusing to me.

Trying To Understand Dear Trying: Many people use the words “Alzheimer’s

disease” and “dementia” interchangeably, but they are not the same thing. In fact, you can have a form of dementia that is completely unrelated to Alzheimer’s disease.

Here’s what you should know.

Dementia is a general term for a set of symptoms that includes memory loss, impaired communication skills, a decline in reasoning, and changes in behavior. It

BEACON BITS

Nov. 17

HOLIDAY STRESS RELIEF Howard County Community College is offering a one-day class in

coping with holiday stress through meditation on Saturday, Nov. 17 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. No previous meditation experience is required. The class will be held in the Hickory Ridge Building on the college main campus, 10901 Little Patuxent Parkway, Columbia. Tuition is $59. To learn more and to register, call (443) 5181700 or go online to howardcc.edu/ConEd.

Nov. 8

HOW TO STOP BLEEDING Severe bleeding is the single biggest cause of preventable death among trauma patients. Immediate responders can take simple

steps to keep the injured person alive until appropriate medical care is available.

Learn how simple hemorrhage control techniques can effectively slow blood loss and save lives in this program presented by Howard County Fire & Rescue on Thursday, Nov. 8 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. It will be held at the Savage Branch Library, 9525 Durness Lane, Laurel. To register, call (410) 313-0760.

most commonly strikes elderly people, and used to be referred to as senility.

Alzheimer’s disease is a specific illness that is the most common cause of dementia.

Though many diseases can cause dementia, Alzheimer’s — which affects 5.7 million Americans today — accounts for 60 to 80 percent of dementia cases, which is why you often hear the terms used interchangeably.

But there are many other conditions that can cause symptoms of dementia, such as vascular dementia, which is the second most common cause, accounting for about 10 percent of dementia cases.

Vascular dementia is caused by a stroke or poor blood flow to the brain.

Other degenerative disorders that can cause dementia include Lewy body dementia, Parkinson’s disease, Frontotemporal dementia, Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE), Huntington’s disease and Korsakoff Syndrome. Some patients may also have more than one form of dementia, known as mixed dementia.

Dementia is caused by damage to brain cells, but the symptoms can vary depending on the cause. In the case of Alzheimer’s disease, protein fragments or plaques that accumulate in the space between nerve cells, and twisted tangles of another protein that build up inside cells, appear to cause the damage.

In Alzheimer’s disease, dementia gets

progressively worse to the point where patients cannot carry out daily activities and cannot speak, respond to their environment, swallow or walk. Although some treatments may temporarily ease symptoms, the downward progression of disease continues and it is not curable.

But some forms of dementia are reversible, which is why it’s important to be evaluated by a physician early on.

Vitamin deficiencies, thyroid problems, brain tumors, depression, excessive alcohol use, medication side effects and certain infectious diseases can cause reversible forms of dementia.

Another treatable form of dementia is a condition known as normal pressure hydrocephalus, which is caused by a buildup of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain that can be relieved by surgically implanting a shunt to drain off excess fluid. This type of dementia is often preceded or accompanied by difficulty walking and incontinence.

To learn more about the different types of dementia, including the symptoms, risks, causes and treatments, visit the Alzheimer’s Association at alz.org/dementia.

Send your questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book.

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november 2018

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.

All seminars and events will be held at Brooke Grove Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, located at 18131 Slade School Road on the Brooke Grove Retirement Village campus, unless otherwise noted. Please register with Toni Davis at 301-388-7209 or tdavis@bgf.org.

Healthy eal living ng class: ss “everyday ay y balance” ”

Healthy living class: H in n “mindful meditation”

Parkinson’s Support Group

November 5 through December ecem 12

er 7 through December 122 November

MONDAYS NDA & WEDNESDAYS W 10-10:30 1 A.M. M

WE AY • 11-11:30 11 3 A.M. WEDNESDAYS

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 14 2-3:15 P.M.

Six-week Session Fee: $30 Ses

eek Session Fee: $20 Six-week

During this class, simple yet effective techniques are used to improve balance and agility and reduce your risk of falls. No props are used, so exercises may easily be performed at home.

tifi studies ud show h that Recent scientific mindful meditation changes the brain in astonishing ways—promoting greater focus, reduced anxiety, increased compassion and improved well-being.

Experience guided, mindful meditation in a quiet space.

Reservations are requested by November 2. Check-in begins at 9:30 a.m. on November 5, and the class fee is due at that time.

Reservations are requested by November 4. Check-in begins at 10:30 a.m. on November 7, and the class fee is due at that time.

Parkinson’s Communications Club TUESDAYS • 12:30-1:30 P.M. This weekly wellness and prevention program for individuals with Parkinson’s disease and their care partners focuses on the maintenance of communication skills, with an emphasis on strengthening breath support and improving the ability to project and speak loudly enough to be heard in social settings.

FREE with a $30 annual Parkinson Foundation registration fee.

caregiver connection: “A Caregiver Retreat” CALL FOR AN APPOINTMENT Experience an hour of relaxation, far away from the stresses of caregiving! You’re invited to the spa and salon in Brooke Grove’s new rehab center, where you’ll be treated to hand and seated massages, a manicure/pedicure and other opportunities for pampering while also enjoying aromatherapy and refreshments.

FREE. RSVP by November 4.

living well seminar: “Medicare 2019: What You Need to Know to Get the Best Benefits” WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 7 1-2:15 P.M. Find the answers to questions such as: “What do Medicare A and B cover?

How does Medicare Part D work?

Do I need Part C? What state and federal programs am I eligible for?

Medicare doesn’t pay for everything, so what else do I need?”

18100 Slade School Road Sandy Spring, MD 20860

301-260-2320 · www.bgf.org

Preceded by complimentary lunch at 12:30 p.m.

FREE. Register by November 5.

Independent living

assisted living

rehabilitation

long-term care

memory support

9

10

Fitness & Health | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

Health Shorts Monthly shot can prevent chronic migraines U.S. regulators recently approved the first drug designed to prevent chronic migraines.

The Food and Drug Administration’s action clears the monthly shot Aimovig (AIM’-oh-vig) for sale. It’s the first in a new class of long-acting drugs for preventing migraines. Three other shots are expected to win approval by next year, and several pills for preventing migraines are being tested.

Current prevention treatments include pills originally developed for epilepsy and other conditions, as well as the wrinkle re-

BEACON BITS

Nov. 7

DO YOUR LEGS HURT? “Leg Pain: What’s Serious and What’s Not?” is the topic of a free

talk by Dr. Baraa Zuhaili on Wednesday, Nov. 7 at 6 p.m. at Howard County Hospital Wellness Center. The discussion will include peripheral artery disease, ulcers and deep vein thrombosis. The Wellness Center is located at 10710 Charter Dr., Columbia. To learn more and to register, call (410) 740-7601 or visit hcgh.org.

Nov. 3+

GUIDED OUTDOOR WALKS EXPLORE COLUMBIA Hosted by environmental author Ned Tillman, free guided walking tours of Columbia will be offered on Saturday, Nov. 3 and

Thursday, Nov. 8. The Nov. 3 walk will cover downtown Columbia, convening at 10 a.m. at Lakefront Plaza, 10275 Little Patuxent Pkwy. On Thursday, Nov. 8 walkers will meet at Amherst House, 7251 Eden Brook Dr., for a walk through King’s Contrivance. For more information, contact the Columbia Association at (410) 312-6330 or online at Open.Space@ColumbiaAssociation.org.

Learn about senior living at Charlestown.

Request your FREE brochure from the premier retirement community in Catonsville. Get the facts about our vibrant lifestyle, stylish apartment homes, expert health care, and so much more!

There’s no risk in learning more!

Call 1-800-989-6981 or visit CharlestownCommunity.com.

Catonsville 12620106

CharlestownCommunity.com

N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 8 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

ducer Botox. But many patients abandon them because they don’t help much or cause serious side effects.

Amgen Inc. of Thousand Oaks, Calif., and Swiss drug giant Novartis AG developed Aimovig. Injected monthly just under the skin using a pen like device, the drug will cost $6,900 per year without insurance.

Migraines can cause disabling symptoms: throbbing headaches, nausea and vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. About 10 million Americans get them frequently. They’re most common in people in their 30s, mostly women, and can last for several hours or even days.

In one study, patients given Aimovig saw their migraine days cut from eight to four a month, on average. Those who got dummy shots had a reduction of two. Each patient group had similar minor side effects, mostly colds and respiratory infections.

Some patients saw their migraines completely eliminated, said Sean Harper, Amgen’s research director.

Aimovig and the migraine drugs in development target a substance called CGRP whose levels spike in the blood during a migraine, triggering symptoms.

The long-term safety of Aimovig, also known as erenumab, hasn’t been tested, and Amgen plans to track outcomes in women who become pregnant while taking it.

Looser rules for gene therapy studies U.S. health officials are eliminating special regulations for gene therapy experiments, saying that what was once exotic science is quickly becoming an established form of medical care with no extraordinary risks.

A special National Institutes of Health oversight panel will no longer review all gene therapy applications, and will instead take on a broader advisory role, according to changes proposed recently. The Food and Drug Administration will vet gene therapy experiments and products as it does with other treatments and drugs.

It’s an extraordinary milestone for a field that has produced only a few approved treatments so far. And not all experts agree that it doesn’t still need special precautions.

With gene editing and other frontiers looming, “this is not the right time to be making any moves based on the idea that we know what the risks are,” said Stanford bioethicist Mildred Cho. Gene therapy aims to attack the root cause of a problem by deleting, adding or altering DNA, the chemical code of life, See HEALTH SHORTS, page 13

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 8

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Fitness & Health

11

When memory loss should be a concern

By Howard LeWine Q: I have become a bit more forgetful. I read about something called mild cognitive impairment. How do you know if you have it?

A: Everyone has the occasional bout of forgetfulness, whether it’s misplacing your keys or blanking out on a name. But if these episodes become frequent or interfere with daily life, you may have mild cognitive impairment, or MCI. But MCI can be tough to identify.

MCI falls somewhere between the natural cognitive decline that happens with aging and the more serious signs of Alzheimer’s disease or other types of dementia.

Despite some cognitive deficits, people with MCI can still engage in their usual daily routine and perform the functions needed to live independently.

MCI is categorized into two major types.

The first is known as amnestic MCI and refers to problems with memory — such as forgetting recent information and de-

tails of conversations, or misplacing personal items like your glasses.

The second category, nonamnestic MCI, involves changes in areas other than memory — such as attention and concentration, executive function (the group of abilities that includes planning, multitasking, and decision making), language skills (like finding words or choosing the right ones), and visual skills (like finding your way around locations or understanding where things are in space).

MCI is tough to pinpoint because people often shrug off the mental lapses as annoying signs of aging. Also, not everyone experiences the same number of symptoms or the same severity.

People may have a deficit in only one area — for instance, only memory or executive function — called single-domain MCI, or mild deficits in several areas, called multi-domain MCI. Being honest about your memory lapses is always the first step to identifying MCI. If you’re not sure if your memory is a

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problem, ask friends or family for an honest assessment, or ask them to look out for memory changes you might not notice.

If you or someone else suspects a problem, your doctor can perform in-office cognitive tests to check for MCI. If you are diagnosed with MCI, that doesn’t mean you’re automatically on the fast track to dementia. In fact, many people will not progress to more severe problems.

While there is no single proven method for preventing or slowing MCI, people can

reduce their risk of cognitive decline by getting regular exercise, eating a Mediterranean style diet, and remaining socially engaged.

Howard LeWine, M.D., is an internist at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston and assistant professor at Harvard Medical School. For additional consumer health information, visit www.health.harvard.edu. © 2018 President and Fellows of Harvard College. All rights reserved. Distributed

By Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

12

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N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 8 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

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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 8

Health shorts From page 10 rather than just treating symptoms that result from a genetic flaw.

When it was first proposed, there were so many safety worries and scientific unknowns that the NIH created a panel of independent scientists, called the Recombinant DNA Advisory Committee, or RAC, to assess each experiment and potential risks to patients. The risks were underscored in 1999, when a teen’s death in a gene experiment put a chill on the field.

Since then, much has been learned about safety, and last year the FDA approved the nation’s first gene therapies, for cancer and an inherited form of blindness.

It’s time to let the FDA review gene therapy proposals on its own without duplicating regulatory efforts, the NIH’s director, Dr. Francis Collins, and FDA chief Dr.

From the publisher From page 2 And our flagship Greater Washington Beacon was honored with six awards: a Gold and a Silver for Barbara Ruben; a Silver and a Bronze for Rebekah Alcalde, and a Bronze and a Merit for yours truly. Also, our October 2017 Greater Washington edition won a Merit award for overall excellence.

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

Scott Gottlieb wrote in the New England Journal of Medicine.

The proposed changes will go into effect after a public comment period, which ends Oct. 16. To learn more about the regulations or submit comments, go to http://bit.ly/gene-regulations.

Weight-loss drug safe for heart For the first time, a drug has been shown to help people lose weight and keep it off for several years without raising their risk for heart problems — a safety milestone that may encourage wider use to help curb the obesity epidemic.

The drug, Belviq, has been sold in the United States since 2013, and is the first of several new weight-loss medicines to complete a long-term heart safety study now

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 multiple editions of the Beacon every month.

I’d like to thank them by name for their efforts and devoted contributions: Vice President of Operations Gordon Hasenei; Vice President of Sales & Marketing Alan Spiegel; Art Director Kyle Gregory; Assistant Operations Manager (and webmaster) Roger King; Advertising Representatives Doug Hallock, Dan Kelly, Barbara Koscielski, Steve Levin and Hubie Stockhausen; 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 who read our publications each month. I offer my sincere appreciation to each of you.

BEACON BITS

Nov. 11

JAZZ BAND SALUTES VETERANS

The Columbia Jazz Band will play “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy” and other songs, and photos and newsreels of World War II will be shown on Veterans Day, Sunday, Nov. 11, starting at 3 p.m. at the Slayton House, 10400 Cross Fox Ln., Columbia. Cabaret and theater-style seating will be available at $20 and $10, respectively. For more information, visit www.columbiaorchestra.org or call (410) 465-8777.

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Fitness & Health

required by federal regulators to stay on the market.

“Patients and their doctors have been nervous about using drugs to treat obesity and for good reason. There’s a history of these drugs having serious complications,” said study leader Dr. Erin Bohula of Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston.

With this study, Belviq has been convincingly shown safe for the heart, she said.

Although Belviq did not raise heart risks, it didn’t lower them either, as many had hoped it would. The weight loss it produced was fairly modest — after 40 months, Belviq users had shed 9 pounds, twice as much as those on dummy pills.

It may be that weight loss alone is not enough to lower heart risks, or that there needs to be more to do that, some doctors said.

Belviq is an appetite suppressant that

13

works by stimulating brain chemicals to give a feeling of fullness. It costs roughly $220 to $290 a month in the United States.

Researchers tested it in a study of 12,000 people who were either obese or overweight with heart disease risk factors such as high blood pressure or cholesterol. They were given Belviq or dummy pills to take twice a day, and offered lifestyle and diet advice.

At one year, 39 percent on Belviq and 17 percent on dummy pills had lost at least 5 percent of their starting weight. After about three years, 6 percent of each group had suffered a heart-related problem or death.

Fewer people on Belviq developed diabetes — 8.5 percent versus 10.3 percent on dummy pills.

Several previous studies also found the drug effective for weight loss.

— AP

14

Fitness & Health | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 8 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

Did you know these benefits of prunes?

Almost everyone knows what prunes stools and induce a laxative type effect due are for: They help you get going! Your par- to their sorbitol content. ents probably kept them in the Filtered prune juice will kitchen and offered them to not work as well because the you when you were a constiactual fruit provides the fiber, pated kid. and filtered juice does not.

Prunes are, of course, just Do prunes have other medried plums. They’re fruits of dicinal benefits? Yes, and surthe tree species Prunus doprisingly important ones too! mestica, hence the name.

Stronger bones More recently, for purely Prunes have been shown marketing reasons, they have in multiple studies to prevent, begun to be called “dried and even reverse, bone loss plums,” which offers greater DEAR in post-menopausal women. mass appeal. Honestly, which PHARMACIST They’re good for those with name sounds more palatable? By Suzy Cohen osteoporosis!

What they couldn’t change Prunes work by suppressing the rate of was how shriveled up and sticky these guys are when you eat them! But don’t let bone turnover. In fact, prominent rethat hinder you, because prunes have searchers wrote an article in the British been scientifically proven to help soften Journal of Nutrition saying they have come

to the conclusion that prunes are “the most effective fruit in both preventing and reversing bone loss.”

Lower blood pressure A placebo-controlled trial out of Pakistan showed that eating just one serving of prunes each day could significantly lower blood pressure in hypertensive patients.

Those who ate the prunes had a reduction in both their systolic and diastolic blood pressure (top and bottom numbers).

Better memory?

Eating prunes might also help preserve your brain. In an animal model study, feeding rodents an extract of plums helped to maintain their cognitive function. Not only was their memory recall improved, there was less formation of beta amyloid plaques, which are found in patients with

New device stops a cold before it starts New research shows you can stop a cold in its tracks if you take one simple !"#$%&!'$($)"%$*"+&,"$%'")$-./$01 !$2""3$ a cold coming on.

Colds start when cold viruses get in your nose. Viruses multiply fast. If you don’t stop them early, they spread in your airways and cause misery.

But scientists have found a quick way to kill a virus. Touch it with copper. Researchers at labs and universities agree, copper is “antimicrobial.” It kills microbes, such as viruses and bacteria, just by touch.

That’s why ancient Greeks and Egyptians used copper to purify water and heal wounds. That’s why Hippocrates, the “father of modern medicine”, used copper to heal skin ulcers, and why Civil War doctors used it to prevent infection of bat!3"0"3*$%./)* 4$5'"-$*&*)6!$7).%$(8./!$ viruses and bacteria, but now we do.

Scientists say the high conductance of copper disrupts the electrical balance in a microbe cell and destroys the cell in seconds.

Tests by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) show copper surfaces kill germs that are left on them. That way the next person to touch that surface does not spread the germ. As a result of this new knowledge, some hospitals switched to copper for various touch surfaces, like faucets and doorknobs. This cut the spread of MRSA and other illnesses by over half, and saved lives.

5'"$ !1.)9$ ,&")!&0,$ "+&*"),"$ 9(+"$ inventor Doug Cornell an idea. When he felt a cold coming on he fashioned a smooth copper probe and rubbed it gently in his nose for 60 seconds.

“It worked!” he exclaimed. “The cold went away completely.” It worked again every time he felt a cold coming on and he hasn’t had a cold since.

He asked relatives and friends to try it.

They said it worked for them so he patented CopperZap™ and put it on the market.

Soon hundreds of people had tried it and given feedback. Nearly 100 percent said the copper stops their colds if used within 3 hours (2!"1$!'"$01 !$ &9)4$:+")$ up to 2 days, if they still get the cold it is milder than usual and they feel better.

Users wrote things New research: Copper stops colds if used early. like, “It stopped my cold right away,” and “Is it supposed to work ($%'(,7$I.8DE$$J/!$'"$0)(33-$!1&"*$&!$()*K$ to his surprise, the copper cleared up his that fast?”

Pat McAllister, age 70, received one sinuses right away. Judy and their daughfor Christmas and called it “one of the ter both said, “It has changed our lives!”

Some users say copper stops nighttime best presents ever. This little jewel real!/L)" K$ !..K$ &2$ !'"-$ / "$ &!$ I/ !$ 8"2.1"$ ly works.” Now thousands of users have bed. One man said, “Best sleep I’ve had simply stopped getting colds. ;.##"1$<(-$"+")$ !.#$=/$!'(!$ !(1! $&)$ in years.”

People have used it on cold sores the nose if used right away and for several days. In a lab test, scientists placed 25 and say it can completely prevent ugly <&33&.)$ 3&+"$ =/$ +&1/ " $ .)$ ($ ;.##"1>(#4$ outbreaks. You can also rub it gently on wounds, cuts, or lesions to combat infecNo viruses were found alive soon after.

People often use CopperZap preven- tions.

5'"$ '()*3"$ & $ ,/1+"*$ ()*$ 0)"3-$ !"F!&+"3-4$?1"@/")!$=&"1$A(1")$B(/,&$/ "*$!.$ 9"!$ ,.3* $ (2!"1$ ,1.%*"*$ =&9'! 4$ 5'./9'$ tured to improve contact. It kills germs skeptical, she tried it several times a day #&,7"*$/#$.)$0)9"1 $()*$'()* $!.$#1.!",!$ on travel days for 2 months. “Sixteen you and your family.

Copper even kills deadly germs that =&9'! $()*$).!$($ )&C"DE$ '"$"F,3(&<"*4 Businesswoman Rosaleen says when have become resistant to antibiotics. If people are sick around her she uses Cop- you are near sick people, a moment of perZap morning and night. “It saved me handling it may keep serious infection last holidays,” she said. “The kids had away from you and your loved ones. It colds going round and round, but not me.” may even save a life.

The EPA says copper still works even Some say it also helps with sinuses.

Attorney Donna Blight had a 2-day sinus when tarnished. It kills hundreds of difheadache. When her CopperZap arrived, ferent disease germs so it can prevent seshe tried it. “I am shocked!” she said. rious or even fatal illness.

CopperZap is made in the U.S. of pure “My head cleared, no more headache, no copper. It has a 90-day full money back more congestion.”

G)"$ <()$ '(*$ /H"1"*$ "( .)(3$ &)/ $ guarantee when used as directed to stop a problems for years. It was so bad it ru- ,.3*4$M!$& $NOP4PQ4$B"!$NRS$.H$"(,'$;.#ined family vacations and even dinners perZap with code MDSB3.

Go to www.CopperZap.com or call out with friends. His wife Judy bought CopperZaps for both of them. He was so toll-free 1-888-411-6114.

Buy once, use forever. skeptical he said, “Oh Judy, you are such (paid advertisement)

Alzheimer’s and may turn out to cause the disease.

Even if everything is “moving right along” in your life, consider adding prunes to your diet if only to help you with blood pressure regulation, bone health and memory.

It’s mind-blowing to think such a simple thing could help so much. As a pharmacist, I see no risk to this, and only benefit.

But of course, don’t eat too many prunes or you’ll get diarrhea!

One warning: If your constipation is due to opiate usage (such as oxycodone or hydrocodone), then you’ll need an OTC medication such as MiraLAX. Prunes are fine, but will not be enough!

If your constipation is secondary to hypothyroidism, prunes will also not be enough. You will need thyroid medication.

I have written about this extensively at my website.

Enjoy prunes on a salad, with yogurt or cottage cheese, or just eat them whole.

Recipes can be found everywhere, including on my website where I also have a longer version of this article posted.

If you simply can’t stand prunes, fresh plums are a great alternative, when available. Plums contain the same anthocyanins that prunes do, and they are even juicier.

This information is opinion only. It is not intended to treat, cure or diagnose your condition. Consult with your doctor before using any new drug or supplement.

Suzy Cohen is a registered pharmacist and the author of The 24-Hour Pharmacist and Real Solutions from Head to Toe. To contact her, visit www.SuzyCohen.com.

BEACON BITS

Nov. 9+

ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI CHRISTMAS BAZAAR

St. Francis of Assisi Church is offering a two-day Christmas Bazaar on Friday, Nov. 9 from 5 to 9 p.m. and Saturday, Nov. 10 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The church is located at 8300 Old Columbia Rd., Fulton. For more information, call the church at (410) 792-0470.

Oct. 27

LEARN TO MAKE SHADOW BOXES Learn how to assem-

ble simple shadow boxes for the holidays from cut paper on Saturday, Oct. 27 from 2 to 4:30 p.m. at the Elkridge Branch Library, 6540 Washington Blvd., Elkridge. To register, call (410) 313-5077.

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 8

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Fitness & Health

15

Even better than keeping your mouth shut Dear Solutions: time when you volunteer at the nursing I see my daughter (a corporate some- home. Show them that good feelings can thing or other) and my soncome from helping others in-law (a lawyer) spending even if you don’t get paid for more and more money on it. their children instead of If they don’t have to strive spending more and more for money, perhaps you can time with them as they’re help them see value in strivgrowing, and I’m worried. ing to earn a position where The children think everythey can effect change and thing is coming to them, and plan for better ways to help that money is the only imporless fortunate people. You tant thing to strive for. Of raised your daughter, so she course, they’re not striving SOLUTIONS probably has some of these since they are getting every- By Helen Oxenberg, values stored inside her.

MSW, ACSW thing handed to them.

My guess is that she and I’m retired, and I volunteer your son-in-law will appreciate some time at a nursing home because we two things: One is you’re not criticizing were always taught to pay attention to them or telling them how to live. Two is people less fortunate. But I think the par- you’re enriching their children’s lives and ents today don’t teach this anymore — giving them another, valuable and exciting they’re too busy. perspective on life.

Part of me wants to say something to Dear Solutions: my daughter and son-in-law, but I don’t I have two good friends who are also want to cause conflict or disturb the friends of each other. Lately though, peace. I keep being caught up saying to they’ve had a disagreement, and they’re myself, “don’t, won’t, can’t, shouldn’t,” constantly arguing about it. and more of the same.

The trouble is that after they finish ar— All of the Above guing, each one turns to me individually.

Dear All of the Above: They call me, tell me what the other one You certainly are caught up — in the said, and say, “Don’t say anything to her, generation gap and in your own fears of but what do you think?” abandonment.

I’m caught in the middle, and I’m tryAs life goes on, the roles spin round and ing to give each one advice to help them round. When our own children were small, patch it up, but it’s becoming really mudthey tried to please us because they were dled. As soon as I point out what’s wrong afraid of abandonment (by us). Now we try in the way it’s handled, I feel a chill comto please them because we’re afraid of ing at me. How to handle this? abandonment (by them).

— Anne You don’t really have to confront them. Dear Anne: They are so caught up in their lifestyle that Keep it up, and that chill may become a they would probably find it impossible to deep freeze! In ancient times, if a king didchange things. n’t like the message, he would kill the mesWhat you can do, however, is become a senger. different kind of role model for your In your situation, that would translate grandchildren. Take them with you some- today into losing both your friends. They’ll

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probably patch things up, trot off together and leave you behind.

Why? Because what each one really wants is not your opinion but your support. They want you to become their ally.

You can’t be an ally to one without alienating the other, so try not to hear a secret no matter how tempting.

The best thing you can do is remove yourself from the middle. Tell them, “I’m leaving for China until you settle this.” Actually, you can tell each one that you are a

friend to each, but this is their quarrel, and you can’t get involved.

You’ll see them separately or together, but they own the quarrel, and in order to remain their friend you can’t accept any shares in it. Good luck. © Helen Oxenberg, 2018. Questions to be considered for this column may be sent to: The Beacon, P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915. You may also email the author at helox72@comcast.net. To inquire about reprint rights, call (609) 655-3684.

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N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 8 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

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Money Law &

MORE COSTLY MEDICARE Higher income Medicare recipients pay much more for Medicare. Learn some strategies for limiting the costs THIN OUT YOUR WALLET Play it safe: don’t keep Social Security cards, extra credit cards, checks or spare keys in your wallet

Don’t try to time the bull market’s end The bull market in stocks has lasted al- technological companies are faltering, most 10 years. Is it time to take profits and trade wars seem to be spreading, and leave the stock market? emerging market economies In recent years, many exare struggling. perts have predicted — incorDespite all these factors, Zweig believes that the right rectly — that it is time to reinvest somewhere else. And the thing for long-term investors is “to do nothing” most of the precipitous drop in mid-Octotime. He goes on to reference ber shook some investors’ faith in a continuing bull marNobel prize-winner Daniel ket. Frankly, I have no idea Kahneman, a psychologist, when this bull market will whose opinions I respect, end, and neither does anyone who has often said that one of THE SAVINGS else with certainty. the keys to successful investGAME Jason Zweig, a financial anaing in the long run is “miniBy Elliot Raphaelson lyst who I respect, wrote a relmizing your future regret.” evant column recently in the Zweig interprets that to Wall Street Journal. He pointed out that, mean that “the bigger, more frequent since the bull market started, the total re- steps you take, the more opportunities you turn for stocks has been more than 400 create to look back and regard them as mistakes.” He believes that “all your acpercent. tions should be small, gradual and reThe case for sitting tight versible.”

However, Zweig also noted that U.S. His advice is sound, and I have followed stocks are not cheap now, selling at about this approach for almost all the years I 32.8 times their long-term average earn- have been investing. ings, adjusted for inflation, according to data from economist Robert Shiller at Yale But don’t forget to rebalance University.

As I have indicated in many of my Zweig also pointed out that analysts ex- columns, when I retired about 20 years pects interest rates to rise, that some large ago I developed a portfolio of approximate-

ly 50 percent in bond funds and 50 percent in diversified common stock funds, mostly index funds.

After determining the amount that I had to withdraw to meet recurring living expenses, I made regular monthly withdrawals primarily from the bond funds. At least once a year, I rebalanced my portfolio [to keep the same percentage of stocks and bonds].

Since almost all of my investments were in retirement accounts, I could sell stocks as necessary without incurring any capital gains taxes. I have followed this approach throughout my retirement, which included both good and bad years for the stock market.

Using this approach, whenever the stock market did poorly in a particular year, by rebalancing at the end of the year I was investing more in common stocks and less in bonds.

And during the last nine years, when many stocks were rising, by rebalancing at the end of each year, I took some profits from the common stock side of my portfolio and re-invested them into bonds.

Naturally, if I had advance knowledge that the stock market would do so well, my portfolio would be worth more today without rebalancing. But I have no regrets because I know I will never be able to predict

high and low points, and I don’t have confidence that anyone else can.

Other common sense advice Since I retired, I have been able to earn some additional income through teaching and writing. I have used dollar-cost averaging, putting this income into diversified common stock funds, never trying to predict tops and bottoms. This approach has worked well for me even though there have been years in which stocks underperformed.

Many investors, facing a drop in the market about 10 years ago, sold all their stocks and never came back, thus losing the potential gains of the last nine years.

They decided not to take small gradual steps, but instead made one large step, trying to out-guess the market.

Even Warren Buffett doesn’t try to guess tops and bottoms. If you want to succeed in the markets, decide how much risk you are willing to take, structure your portfolio accordingly, and take a long-term approach, making gradual steps.

Don’t try to predict tops and bottoms.

No one can!

Elliot Raphaelson welcomes your questions and comments at raphelliot@gmail.com. © 2018 Elliot Raphaelson. Distributed by

Preexisiting condition can affect medigap

By Kimberly Lankford Is it true that an insurance company can factor in preexisting conditions when deciding whether to offer you a medigap policy or when setting the premiums?

Answer: That’s correct. Many people don’t realize that even though preexisting conditions can’t affect your ability to get other types of health insurance, the rules are different for medigap.

You can pick any medigap plan available in your area within six months after you initially sign up for Medicare Part B. But after that, medigap insurers in almost all states can reject you or charge more based on your health. This can make it difficult if you’d like to switch to another insurer with better medigap rates, or if you had a Medicare Advantage plan for more than a year and want to switch to tradition-

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Nov. 10

HELP CLEAN OELLA CEMETERY Patapsco Heritage Greenway is putting out a call for volunteers

to help clean up the historic cemetery in Oella on Saturday, Nov. 10 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The cemetery is located at 520 Rest Ave., Oella. For more information and to register, call (410) 696-1328 or visit patapsco.org.

al Medicare and a medigap policy instead.

There are a few exceptions. Four states — Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maine and New York — have special rules that let residents switch medigap plans regardless of preexisting conditions.

You may also buy a medigap policy without concern about preexisting conditions if you move out of your Medicare Advantage plan’s service area or change your mind within 12 months of signing up for Medicare Advantage at age 65. For more information see “When Can I Buy Medigap?” on Medicare.gov.

Also, your insurer may let you switch to a less-comprehensive policy regardless of your health (such as switching from a Plan F to a high-deductible Plan F, for example). See the Medicare Rights Center’s list of what each type of medigap policy covers

(www.medicarerights.org).

And if you’re healthy, you may still be able to qualify for a new medigap policy, especially if you’re in your mid to late 60s.

You don’t need to wait until any specific time of year to apply for a new medigap policy because there is no annual open-enrollment period.

For more information about your state’s rules, see your state insurance department website. You can find links at www.naic.org/ map. Most have consumer guides that list medigap prices and provide information for seniors searching for a plan.

The Howard County SHIP (Senior Health Insurance Program) office can also help.

Contact them at (410) 313-7392.

All contents © 2018 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, 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 8

17

Use care if giving your home to children

By Tracy Craig A house is typically one of the most valuable assets someone owns, both financially and sentimentally. It makes sense, then, that out of love and generosity, many parents want to give their houses to their children during their lives or pass them down as an inheritance.

It’s difficult to imagine that giving your child your family home could backfire, but it might — especially if you do not understand all the pitfalls and benefits.

Passing on a home can be a complicated matter, and doing it at the wrong time, in the wrong way, or for the wrong reasons can have significant consequences for both parents and children.

Understanding Medicaid A primary reason someone might think about transferring their house to a family member has to do with Medicaid. Nursing home costs continue to rise, and many people want to be able to qualify for government benefits without having to spend down most of their assets.

In addition, they don’t want to worry that their home may be forced to be sold after they pass away (through a process called estate recovery) to cover the cost of the Medicaid benefits they received.

To begin, it is important to understand that Medicaid is different from Medicare (even though sometimes people mistakenly believe the two are interchangeable).

Medicare is a federal entitlement program that provides health insurance for people over the age of 65, regardless of how much money they have.

Medicaid, on the other hand, is a federal health insurance program for the elderly, disabled and poor that, among other things, will pay for long-term skilled nursing home care for individuals in need.

Generally speaking, people must be below certain quite restrictive income and asset limits to qualify for Medicaid. In simple terms, once most of your assets are gone, Medicaid will kick in to pay for nursing home care.

However, a primary residence with $572,000 of equity in 2018 (or up to $828,000 of equity in certain states that

opted for an increased amount available under federal law) is considered a noncountable asset. This means that it is possible to own a home and still qualify for the government to pay for nursing home care under Medicaid.

Estate recovery concerns Upon the death of a Medicaid recipient, each state has the right to recover from the deceased person’s estate the amount paid for their care.

Because the home is one of the only assets that people are allowed to own and still receive Medicaid benefits, the right to recover benefits from the estate (typically from the sale of the house) is what people mean when they’ve heard that the state will take the home. (Note that no recovery efforts can be made until after the death of the recipient’s spouse.)

Those worried about estate recovery sometimes consider giving the home away prior to the time they believe they will need nursing home care. But misunderstandings about Medicaid’s complex laws can result in serious consequences.

Before transferring any assets, it’s crucial to understand about the “look-back period” and how it affects Medicaid eligibility. When you apply for Medicaid, any gifts or asset transfers made within five years are subject to penalties. In other words, giving away assets can disqualify you from receiving Medicaid.

Under the current rules, Medicaid benefits are denied if people have given away assets within 60 months of the date of application. This critical time is known as the “look-back period.”

Consequently, it is important to trust that you are healthy enough to stay out of a nursing home for at least five years from when you give away your house (or any other assets). Planning must be done long before any need arises.

Ways to transfer property But keep in mind, the look-back period isn’t the only thing to consider if you want to gift away your family home. The way you set up the transfer of your property is

extremely important and also fraught with unforeseen consequences — whether it’s an outright deed, a deed with life estate, or to an irrevocable trust.

Here’s a brief review of the pros and cons of each: Outright deed: Giving away your home can be as simple as executing a deed transferring ownership to someone else, such as your child. This is straight-forward and relatively inexpensive to accomplish.

However, if the person to whom you gift your house gets sued, divorced or declares bankruptcy, the house can be lost. And, if you arranged to continue to live in the house, that right could be lost as well.

Another potential problem is that the people you give away your house to could disagree over how to manage the house, and family fights could ensue.

Deed with life estate: You can also execute a deed transferring ownership, but if you include a life estate in the deed, your right to live in the house for the rest of your life cannot be taken away.

While a life estate can solve some of the above issues, the part of the house you’ve given away — known as the remainder interest — is still vulnerable to creditors and divorce, and to fights among the new owners. In addition, in some states, the life estate may be subject to estate recovery.

Irrevocable trust: You can also transfer your house to an irrevocable trust. An irrevocable trust provides protection for the house from the creditors and divorces of the beneficiaries of the trust (other than you — and in some states you can be a limSee GIFT YOUR HOME, page 23

Law & Money cont. on p. 23

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 8

Say you saw it in the Beacon

50+

THE

19

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

Connection

Department of Community Resources and Services

Volume 8, No. 11 • November 2018

OAI and COGS Offer Educational Series to Explore Options to Maintain Future Independence Explore options to enhance your ability to live independently in the community at the 50+ Futures Planning, an informative series offered in partnership with the Howard County Office on Aging and Independence (OAI) and Coalition of Geriatric Services (COGS).

This seven-session series brings together experts from the private and public sectors to discuss topics related to health, supportive housing, homecare options, Medicare, financial planning and more. Recognizing the broad scope of future planning can be overwhelming, this series breaks it into manageable steps for participants to develop a personal plan. Those attending the series will find information and resources to safely maintain their independence for as long as possible in an environment they choose.

“The 50+ Futures series was originally designed to help adults begin planning for their future needs,” said Ofelia Ross Ott, OAI’s Home and Community-Based Services division manager, “Many of our clients often do not know where to turn or, even worse, where to start.

Navigating services, understanding government programs like Medicare, choosing home care services and more can be overwhelming to a family in need or crisis. The idea was to create an educational series (think Aging 101) to help people understand the process.”

“It is never too early to start planning for your future,” says Ott. “Whether you are looking for resources for yourself or a family member or helping a friend navigate the system of support services, this series introduces important issues to consider at any age.”

Register for one, two or all seven 50+Futures Planning sessions at www.50futuresplanningseries.eventbrite.com. Admission is free. For more information, contact Becky Sieck at 410-997-0610 or info@cogsmd.org.

SERIES SCHEDULE

6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

East Columbia Library 6600 Cradlerock Way Columbia, MD 21045

Tuesday, October 23 Tuesday, October 30 Wednesday, November 7 Tuesday, November 13 Tuesday, November 27 Tuesday, December 4 Tuesday, December 11

Health Care Head to Toe Retirement Living and Assisted Care Options Options for Continued and Supportive Care at Home Staying a Step Ahead as a Caregiver Integrating Financial and Legal Planning Senior Health Insurance Basics Safeguards to Avoid Fraud, Abuse and Exploitation

Kindred Spirits at Glenwood participants and staff took to the sidewalks on October 10 for Walk Maryland Day to promote awareness about walking for physical activity and improved health.

With locations at the Glenwood and North Laurel 50+ Centers, the Kindred Spirits Social Club provides companionship, support, education, and a sense of purpose for those diagnosed with early stage memory loss.

For more information, call 410-313-5442 (Glenwood) or 410-313-7691 (North Laurel).

20

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The 50+ Connection

N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 8 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

New Law Offers Enhanced Credit Protection

By Rebecca Bowman, Administrator, Howard County Office of Consumer Protection

One of the best ways to protect your identity is to protect the information contained in your credit reports.

A new Federal law — effective September 21, 2018 — enhances credit freeze and fraud alert protections.

Free Credit Freezes

Extended Fraud Alerts

Most creditors (and retailers who extend credit) review your credit reports before approving loans or extending credit. By freezing your credit reports, creditors can’t review them and consequently, won’t approve credit applications submitted by you or, more importantly, by identity thieves.

In the past, credit reporting companies charged fees to freeze and unfreeze your reports. Under the new law, credit freeze services must be offered for free. Once frozen, you will need to unfreeze your reports each time you apply for new credit. You do this by using the PIN you get when you request a credit freeze.

You must contact each credit reporting company (see list below) directly to place a freeze. Under the new law, each credit bureau must set up a webpage for requesting fraud alerts and credit freezes.

Fraud alerts are another tool that can be used to help fight identity theft. When you place a fraud alert on your credit reports, creditors must try to verify your identity before extending new credit. This usually means calling you to check if you are the person who is attempting to get credit.

When you request a fraud alert with one credit reporting company, that company must notify the others of the request. Fraud alerts are free but are time-limited. The new law extends the duration of fraud alerts from 90 days to one year.

While fraud alerts provide some protection, credit freezes give you greater control over your credit information.

EQUIFAX: www.equifax.com • 800-685-1111 EXPERIAN: www.experian.com • 888-397-3742 TRANSUNION: www.transunion.com • 888-909-8872 While the companies must provide free credit freezes, they may charge for other services, like credit monitoring. Make sure you sign up for only the service you want.

For information, or to obtain this article in an alternative format, contact the Office of Consumer Protection at 410-313-6420 (voice/relay), email consumer@howardcountymd.gov or visit www.howardcountymd.gov/consumer.

CONSUMER PROTECTION QUESTIONS? DISPUTES? We’ve got you covered.

Take advantage of US before someone takes advantage of YOU!

The Empty Chair at the Holidays Presented by Edward R. Kaplan

410-313-6420 (VOICE/RELAY) consumer@howardcountymd.gov

www.howardcountymd.gov/consumer

!"#$%#&$&'(!")($"*+%"+(,-.&/01"*+-0"#$%0%!*&'(!"2-,," &..$%00"*+%"3+&,,%!4%0"()"4$-%5-!4".6$-!4"*+%"0%&0(!1" 3(#-!4"0*$&*%4-%01"&!."+(2"*("3%,%7$&*%"*+%"8%8($/"()" /(6$",(5%."(!%9 :.2&$.";&#,&!1")&3-,-*&*($1"+&0",%&."7%$%&5%8%!*"06##($*" 4$(6#0")($"8&!/"/%&$09"<=::9"=%4-0*%$"7/">(5%87%$"?@9

Wednesday, November 14 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon Bain 50+ Center, 5470 Ruth Keeton Way, Columbia 21044 The 50+ Connection is published monthly by the Howard County Office on Aging and Independence.

This publication is available in alternate formats upon request.

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

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT

ELAINE WIDOM 410-313-7353 (voice/relay) ewidom@howardcountymd.gov

www.Facebook.com/HoCoCommunity

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

www.howardcountymd.gov/sentog

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 8

The 50+ Connection

Say you saw it in the Beacon

21

VETERANS DAY PARADE

IF YOU KNIT OR CROCHET, the Howard County Office of Veterans and Military Families is collecting homemade SCARVES AND HATS for military members. Drop off your handmade items no later than Friday, November 9, at the Department of Community Resources and Services (DCRS) or one of the Office on Aging and Independence 50+ Centers.

Pin a note to each scarf or hat with the yarn fiber contents listed and feel free to include a personal note for a military member. Our soldiers are deeply touched by the care and effort when they receive gifts, especially handmade items from supportive fellow Americans at home.

• scarves should be 4-6” wide x 48” to 50” long (no fringe) • hats should fit an adult-size head • colors: subtle shades/earth tones: blues, browns, olive, grays, maroon, and black; red/white/blue combinations are acceptable • materials: wool, acrylic or non-flammable fleece

For more information, contact Lisa B. Terry ★ PHONE 410-313-0821 (VOICE/RELAY) ★ EMAIL veterans@howardcountymd.gov 9830 Patuxent Woods Drive, Columbia, MD 21046 howardcountymd.gov/veterans • facebook.com/HoCoVeterans

The Howard County Office on Aging and Independence invites you to a

THANKSGIVING CELEBRATION!

Giving Thanks

THE

LUNCHEON and DANCE

Music by Sly 45 A Baltimore-based band rocking the blues, jazz and classic pop scene!

Thursday, November 15, 2018 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 $15/person PLEASE BRING NON-PERISHABLE FOOD ITEMS FOR THE HOWARD COUNTY FOOD BANK

Celebrate our Community’s Veterans!

Sunday, November 11 • 9 to 11 am MUSIC ★ PERFORMANCES ★ FOOD FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES ★★ FREE FLAGS FOR KIDS ★★ PARADE ROUTE: From Merriweather Drive and Little Patuxent Parkway, toward Downtown Columbia Lakefront CEREMONY: Downtown Columbia Lakefront

Have You Completed Your Yearly Medicare Health and Drug Plan Review?

Medicare Open Enrollment Ends December 7 It’s time to review your current plan to see if it works for you next year. You can stay in your current plan if you are happy or you can compare plans to see if there is an option that better fits your needs. There are several ways to shop for and enroll in plans.

Ways to Get the Help You Need Contact Howard County’s State Health Insurance Assistance Program at 410-313-7392 (VOICE/RELAY) to schedule a one-on-one appointment with a SHIP counselor. Please leave a message; calls will be returned in the order they are received.

Call 800-MEDICARE (800-633-4227): Medicare’s customer service line is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, except major federal holidays (TTY line 877-486-2048).

Visit www.medicare.gov and click on “Find Health and Drug Plans” to use the Plan Finder tool. Helpful videos on the Plan Finder home page will walk you through how to use this resource

KNOW YOUR OPTIONS. Contact us for help.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CALL

410-313-5440 (VOICE/RELAY)

410-313-7392 • howardcountymd.gov/SHIP

www.howardcountymd.gov/aging

Medicare supplemental plans (medigaps) are not part of the Medicare Open Enrollment and are subject to different rules. For more information visit www.medicare.gov, call the Maryland Insurance Administration at 800-492-6116, or visit their website at www.mdinsurance.state.md.us.

22

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The 50+ Connection

N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 8 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

Are You the Parent of a Child with Disabilities?

A SPECIAL PROGRAM FOR PARENTS OF CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES!

he Howard County Office on Aging and Independence and the Caregiver Support Program is excited to offer Powerful Tools for Caregivers (PTC), an evidence-based program designed with the parent’s well-being in mind.

T

January 15 through February 19, 2019

This six-week series of two-hour classes offers parents opportunities to explore a variety of self-care tools in a supportive environment, designed to help you: • reduce personal stress • change negative self-talk • communicate more effectively in challenging situations • manage your emotions • make tough caregiving decisions

6:00 to 8:00 PM — SIX CONSECUTIVE TUESDAYS —

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

Previous participants have found the learned program tools improve relaxation and exercise habits, as well as their physical and mental well-being. The tools also helped them better manage their emotions, increased confidence in their ability to meet caregiving demands, and improved their ability to seek out and utilize community resources.

If you are the parent of a child with disabilities, we encourage you to register today! Our goal is to improve the lives of parents (and ultimately their children) through outreach, conversation, training and resources.

$

—

30 fee covers all materials FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO REGISTER

—

Kathy Wehr CAREGIVER SUPPORT PROGRAM MANAGER

410-313-5955 (VOICE/RELAY) kwehr@howardcountymd.gov If you need this information in an alternate format, or need accommodations to participate, contact Maryland Access Point (MAP) of Howard County at 410-313-1234 (voice/relay).

Does Your Car Fit You? AARP’s CarFit is a great way to make sure that your vehicle “fits” you properly to maximize your comfort and safety behind the wheel.

The CarFit program also highlights actions older drivers can take to improve their fit, and to promote conversations about driver safety and community mobility.

Participation in CarFit is voluntary and confidential, and takes about 30 minutes to complete an assessment, from the time you drive into our parking lot until the time you leave. While CarFit technicians do not make changes to your personal vehicle, they may recommend adjustments to help you get the right fit to enhance your safety when you drive.

Make your CarFit appointment by calling 410-313-1400 (voice/relay)

AARP presents CarFit Friday, November 9 • 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Ellicott City 50+ Center (Parking Lot) 9401 Frederick Road, Ellicott City, MD 21042

Find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/HoCoCommunity Stay connected to the Howard County Department of Community Resources and Services. Like us today!

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Law & Money

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 8

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Law & Money continued from page 17

Medicare surcharges for richer recipients

By Rachel L. Sheedy A big question every year at open enrollment for employer health insurance is how much will the premium rise? That doesn’t change once you’re on Medicare — Part B and Part D premiums typically increase each year. But with Medicare there’s added anxiety: Your income can shoot premiums through the roof.

The government sets four Medicare surcharge tiers for 2018, based on a beneficiary’s income. As income rises above $85,000 for singles and $170,000 for joint filers, Part B and Part D costs begin a steep climb.

For example, the standard monthly Part B premium of $134 per beneficiary jumps to $187.50, plus a $13 surcharge for Part D, for singles with modified adjusted gross income between $85,001 and $107,000. The income range for joint filers is $170,001 to $214,000.

At the highest tier, which kicks in once income tops $160,000 for singles and $320,000 for joint filers, the monthly Medicare Part B premium runs $428.60 per beneficiary with

a $74.80 surcharge for Part D. A silver lining: If your income spikes in just one year, the surcharge is added to your premiums for only one year, not permanently, said Neil Krishnaswamy, a financial planner for Exencial Wealth Advisors.

If income falls the next year, the surcharge falls off in the corresponding year.

It’s important to note that the surcharge can also be waived because of a qualifying life-changing event, such as retirement, as many people continue to work at 65 and older, but are on Medicare (find details at socialsecurity.gov).

But there’s no waiver for hefty income, even if it’s just a one-time event. Instead, because the surcharges are based on your tax return from two years prior, avoiding the surcharges requires advance planning.

Those enrolling in Medicare at 65 need to start reviewing their tax situation through the lens of Medicare surcharges at age 63, if not sooner. The surcharges “can be hard to eliminate, but you can mit-

Gift your home

when you sell an asset that is worth more than you paid for it.

However, individuals can generally exempt up to $250,000 from capital gains taxes upon the sale of a primary residence if they occupy the house as their primary residence for two of the five years prior to the sale. Couples can generally exempt up to $500,000.

So, if your home increases in value you might not need to pay capital gains taxes when you sell.

But if you give your house to your children, and they do not live there as their primary residence, they will not be eligible for this exemption upon a sale. They would need to pay capital gains taxes on the increased value. Proper planning can help minimize or eliminate this result.

Also important is that if you retain certain ownership rights in your house (such as a life estate or possibly through an irrevocable

From page 17 ited beneficiary of the trust). In addition, the trust can dictate how the house will be dealt with after you pass.

For example, should one child have the right to live there for a period of time?

Should any child have the right of first refusal to buy the house? Should the house be sold to a third party?

These provisions can ensure that fights among your children about what to do with the house after your death are kept at bay.

But while a trust addresses many issues, it is also much more expensive and complex, easily costing thousands of dollars to implement.

Possible tax downsides Capital gains taxes are generally owed

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Healthy Living for Your Brain and Body Luncheon Tuesday, November 8, 12pm Victoria Gastro Pub Lunch presentation by the Alzheimer’s Association and brief review of the benefits of Levinson's Advance Planning Guide.

Lunch is free, but registration is required by November 3rd to AskTheExpert@sollevinson.com or 410-653-8900. A vegetarian/fish meal will be served.

igate it,” said Gil Charney, director of the Tax Institute at H&R Block.

Rein in your income The key is to pay attention to “modified adjusted gross income” (MAGI) — that is AGI plus tax-exempt interest. Moving money into municipal bonds won’t help, because that tax-exempt interest counts for this purpose.

But utilizing Roth accounts can go a long way, because tax-free Roth distributions are ignored. “It gives you more breathing room and flexibility to be able to draw on a Roth,” said Charney. Tapping a Roth for a new roof, for instance, won’t send Medicare premiums sky high.

Consider making Roth conversions over a number of years. The more traditional IRA money converted to a Roth IRA, the lower your taxable required minimum distributions from the traditional IRA will be.

Another arrow in the quiver to manage RMDs: the qualified charitable distribution.

The QCD counts toward your annual RMD

trust), then when you die, the tax basis of the house becomes its fair market value at death.

This is known as the step-up in basis rule, and it’s important when it comes time for your children to sell the home. This rule eliminates any capital gains taxes your children might otherwise need to pay upon the sale of the house after you die.

Needless to say, there are many things to consider before deciding whether or not to give away your house. Tax issues and the complex timing rules for Medicaid can make giving away your house tricky, but

but isn’t recognized as income, so it stays out of the Medicare surcharge formula. “It will help drive down modified AGI,” said David Levi, senior managing director of CBIZ MHM. Traditional IRA owners age 70 1/2 or older can directly transfer up to $100,000 from the IRA to a charity each year.

If capital gains are boosting your income, try harvesting losses from your portfolio.

Capital losses reduce MAGI by offsetting capital gains, and excess capital losses can offset up to $3,000 of other income.

Check whether bunching income could help mitigate surcharge pain. You might “take enough cash to straddle two years, to get hit with the surcharge for one year and then save yourself from the surcharge the next year,” said Bob Waskiewicz, a certified public accountant at Wescott Financial Advisory Group.

Excluding home sale profits Bunching could particularly be handy if See MEDICARE, page 25

with careful thought and planning there are strategies that make it possible to accomplish your goals.

Because rules can vary from state to state, it makes sense to consult with a local attorney or estate planning expert before deciding. That way you can pass along your most valued asset to future generations in the best way possible, and avoid unpleasant consequences. © 2018 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 8 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

Nine things to never keep in your wallet You and your hard-earned savings have finally made it to retirement. Why risk losing anything if your wallet goes missing or is stolen?

With every new bank slip that bulges from the seams, your personal information is getting less and less safe. With just your name and Social Security number, identity thieves can open new credit accounts and make costly purchases in your name.

If they can get their hands on (and doctor) a government-issued photo ID of yours, they

can do even more damage, including opening new bank accounts. These days, con artists are even profiting from tax return fraud and healthcare fraud, all with stolen IDs. We talked with consumer protection advocates to identify the nine things retirees should purge from their wallets immediately.

And when you’re finished, take a moment to photocopy everything you’ve left inside your wallet, front and back. Stash the copies in a secure location. The last thing you want to be wondering as you’re reporting a stolen

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wallet is, “What exactly did I have in there?”

Social Security card. Whether you’ve already started collecting Social Security or soon will, it’s good to know where your Social Security card is located. Just don’t locate it in your wallet.

Your nine-digit Social Security number is all a savvy ID thief needs to open new credit card accounts or take out loans in your name. ID-theft experts say your Social Security card is the absolute worst item to carry around.

Once you’ve removed your card, look for anything else that may contain your SSN — or your spouse’s or children’s Social Security numbers (some of us stow those away, too). Since December 2005, states can no longer display your Social Security number on newly issued driver’s licenses, state ID cards and motor-vehicle registrations.

Some of us old-timers may still have an older photo ID, plus some states issue motorvehicle licenses for 10-year periods. What to do? Request a new card prior to the expiration date. There might be an additional fee, but it’s worth it to protect your identity.

Password cheat sheet. The average American uses at least seven different passwords. Ideally, each of those passwords should be a unique combination of letters, numbers and symbols, and you should change them regularly. Is it any wonder we

need help keeping track of them all?

However, carrying your ATM card’s PIN number and a collection of passwords (especially those for online access to banking and investment accounts) on a scrap of paper in your wallet is a prescription for financial disaster.

If you have to keep passwords jotted down somewhere, keep them in a locked box in your house. Or consider a password management service, such as LastPass that will store all of your passwords behind one master login — the only password you’ll need to remember. Family plans start at $4 per month.

[For more about passwords, see “Secure passwords with less headache,” March Beacon.]

Spare keys. It’s old-school, we know: keeping a spare key in your wallet (or under a doormat). But a lost wallet containing your home address and a spare key is an invitation for burglars to do far more harm than just opening a credit card in your name.

Don’t put your property and family at risk.

And even if your home isn’t robbed after losing a spare key, you’ll likely spend $100 or more in locksmith fees to change the locks for peace of mind.

And speaking of keys, be careful what you hand to the valet while out and about enjoying your retirement, warned Adam See WALLET, page 25

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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 8

Wallet From page 24 Levin, chairman and cofounder of Identity Theft 911. “Remember that every time you stop and hand your key to a valet, depending on what’s in the glove box [or trunk], you are making yourself vulnerable.” For example, your vehicle registration and insurance cards contain your address, and potential thieves know you’re not home.

Paper checks. If you’re still occasionally writing paper checks, like some of us, that’s not going to end in retirement. However, know this: Blank checks in your wallet are an obvious risk — an easy way for thieves to quickly withdraw money from your checking account.

But even a lost check you’ve already filled out can lead to financial loss, perhaps long after you’ve canceled and forgotten about it. With the routing number and account number on your check, anybody could attempt to transfer funds from your account electronically.

Only carry paper checks when you will absolutely need them. And leave the checkbook at home, bringing only the exact number of checks you anticipate needing that day.

Passport. If you’re planning a lot of international travel in retirement, note this:

A government-issued passport, including a wallet-size passport card, opens up a world of possibilities for a con artist.

Instead, keep only your driver’s license or other personal ID in your wallet while traveling inside the United States. When you’re overseas, carry a photocopy of your passport and leave the original in a hotel lockbox.

Multiple credit cards. Although you shouldn’t ditch credit cards altogether (those who regularly carry a card tend to have higher credit scores than those who don’t), consider a lighter load. After all, the more cards you carry, the more you’ll have to cancel if your wallet is lost or stolen.

We recommend carrying a single card for unplanned purchases or emergencies, plus perhaps an additional rewards card on days when you expect to buy eligible gas or groceries.

Maintain a list, someplace other than your wallet, with all the contact numbers for your credit cards. The phone numbers are typically listed on the backs of cards, but that won’t do you much good when your wallet is nowhere to be found. Call immediately if your cards go missing.

Birth certificate. A birth certificate itself won’t get ID thieves very far. However, “birth certificates could be used in correlation with other types of fraudulent IDs,” said Junker of the Identity Theft Resource

Center. “Once you have those components, you can do the same things you could with a passport or a Social Security card.”

Multiple receipts. Since 2003, businesses have not been allowed to print anything containing your credit or debit card’s expiration date or more than the last five digits of your credit card number.

Still, a crafty ID thief can use the limited credit card info and merchant information on receipts to phish for your remaining numbers.

Clear receipts out of your wallet nightly, shredding the ones you don’t need. But for receipts you save, keep them safe by going digital. An app such as Shoeboxed lets you create and categorize digital copies of your receipts and business cards. Plans start at

Medicare From page 23 you have a one-time spike in income, say, from the sale of a home. But note that while home-sale profit can tip you into Medicare surcharges, two speed bumps can help you steer clear.

Homeowners can qualify for a home-sale profit exclusion of $250,000 if single or $500,000 if married filing jointly. And owners can increase the home’s basis by tallying up the costs of home improvements. Only

$15 per month.

Medicare card. Retirees, double check your Medicare card, too. If it was issued before April 2015, it has your Social Security number on it. A law signed in April 2015 requires the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to remove SSNs from Medicare cards, and most residents in Washington, D.C., Maryland and Virginia should have received new cards early this summer.

Photocopy your Medicare card (front and back) and carry the copy with you instead of your real card. Keep your real Medicare card in a safe place at home. © 2018 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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any excess profit is included in MAGI. Estate planning can also help. Leaving a home or stock to heirs might make more sense than selling it for a sizable capital gain. Heirs receive a step-up in basis on the value of an inherited home or stock on the date you die. Tax on the appreciation up to that time is avoided. That’s frosting on the cake as it also helps you avoid Medicare surcharges now. © 2018, Kiplinger. All Rights Reserved.

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N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 8 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

Travel Leisure &

Jaffa, an ancient town just south of Tel Aviv, features varied cuisine and the port that Jonah used. See story on facing page.

Delaware’s’ mansions, gardens and more The du Pont legacy The main story and primary reason the area is such a tourist magnet has to do with the saga of the du Pont family. The tale began in 1800, when Pierre Samuel du Pont, the son of a Parisian watchmaker, immigrated to the United States. One of his sons established a gunpowder mill near Wilmington.

Over time, the company grew into the world’s largest manufacturer of black powder, which was used in munitions and construction projects. From that beginning, the du Ponts evolved into one of the wealthiest family empires in the country.

Fortunately, for those of us not lucky enough to be descendants, a family trait was a willingness to share their good fortune with others. As a result, the destination is rich in world-class museums and renowned gardens, touches of both history and present-day hip, pastoral countryside and vestiges of colonial towns.

A good place to begin is where the story of the du Ponts in America did. The Hagley Museum and Library features the restored original gunpowder mills, the Eleutherian Mills ancestral estate, where five generations of du Ponts resided, gardens, and the village where workers lived. The charming residence itself would be well worth a visit for the antique furnishings, artwork and memorabilia collected by family members.

Buildings on Workers’ Hill provide a

PHOTO BY DANIEL TRAUB

By Victor Block Some members of the large, wealthy family lived in a 175-room mansion set amid 1,000 acres of magnificent gardens, sprawling woodlands and splashing fountains. Others made their home in a chateau modeled after the palace where Marie Antoinette once hung out.

Not far away, workers who toiled in the business that affluent dynasty was creating resided in more modest quarters. They included multi-unit houses that today provide accommodations for visitors to the area.

This contrast between members of the du Pont family who settled in and around Wilmington, Del., at the turn of the 19th century, and those who worked in the gunpowder mills they founded, is one of many diversities that characterize the area today. They offer visitors an inviting potpourri that appeals to a wide array of interests and preferences.

Are flowers your forte? Does a penchant for the past turn you on? Are you an art and antique adherent?

These are among a long list of attractions that greet visitors to Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley, which is named for the river that runs from southeastern Pennsylvania to northern Delaware. Because the destination is only about an hour and a half drive from Columbia, it’s a welcome and wonderful place for a mini-vacation, weekend visit or even a day trip.

PHOTO BY LES KIPP

The 77-room Nemours Estate is surrounded by statuary in its elaborate gardens. This statue, “Achievement,” was designed by French sculptor Henri Crenier, and is gilded with 23-karat gold leaf.

The fountains at Longwood Gardens feature 1,700 fountain jets and streams that are lit at night. The gardens include more than 1,000 acres of outdoor flora as well as a four-acre greenhouse.

glimpse of life for the mill employees. They include homes once occupied by the factory foreman and bookkeeper, and a Sunday School for children.

A modest garden filled with the kinds of vegetables factory families grew for food contrasts starkly with the elaborate ornamental plantings at du Pont family homes. The twoacre spread in front of the Eleutherian Mills mansion included more than 100 varieties of fruit trees along with alternating beds of flowers and vegetables.

Nemours, Winterthur and Longwood The 77-room Nemours Estate was modeled after Le Petit Trianon — a chateau built on the grounds of Versailles during the reign of King Louis XV for his mistress and later occupied by Queen Marie Antoinette.

The Delaware version was constructed by Alfred I. du Pont, the great-great-grandson of Pierre, for his second wife Alicia.

The mansion cum museum is crammed with precious antiques, artwork and hints of the lavish lifestyle that was lived there.

The sumptuous setting is enhanced by acres of formal gardens, colonnades, sunken pools and statuary that surround the house.

They include greenhouses, a maze garden, and imported gates covered with 23 karat gold leaf.

The 175-room mansion known as Winterthur, another du Pont family estate, displays a collection of more than 90,000 antiques in stunning interiors. The house sits in a setting of forests and fields, rolling hills and babbling brooks, all of which provide a naturalistic backdrop for the gardens that present a year-round explosion of color.

More than 1,000 acres of outdoor plantings and a four-acre indoor conservatory make Longwood Gardens one of the premier botanical destinations in the world, Adding coloration to the scene are spectacular displays of illuminated fountains.

Technicolor streams of water rise and fall, spin and twirl, and at times even burst into flames in a precisely choreographed show.

Art, history and ghosts As unique and inviting as everything related to the du Pont story is, that represents just a small slice of what awaits visitors to the area. For example, along with grand mansions that double as museums, other collections focus on topics as diverse as art, history and civil rights.

The Brandywine Valley inspired generations of Wyeth family artists, whose creations are displayed at various locations. The See DELAWARE, page 28

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Leisure & Travel

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 8

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Visiting Israel’s ancient port city of Jaffa

By Tali Arbel Just south of Tel Aviv’s glass towers and concrete houses are the white stone buildings of Jaffa, the ancient port town.

Jaffa has existed for thousands of years, but today it is one unified city with Tel Aviv, which was founded in 1909. Both Jews and Arabs live in Jaffa, and that’s reflected in the flavors of the neighborhood.

Visitors will find a luxury hotel, the Setai, built out of a Crusader fortress that was later a prison and police station.

Trendy cafes, galleries, bars and boutiques line narrow streets, intersecting with Jaffa’s well-known Arab hummus spots and bakeries, along with mosques, churches and synagogues.

Street markets and cafes In and around Jaffa’s famous flea market, Shuk Hapishpeshim, are streets dotted with cafes. On one of my visits, I sat in an alley and munched on Shaffa Bar’s shakshuka, poached eggs baked in tomato sauce, while chickens clucked on the roof of a building down the street.

Cafe Puaa has comfy, chic but mismatched furniture, and will sell you the plates you eat off (nearly everything is for sale). Its menu is packed with the vegetable dishes that Israeli cuisine is known for.

After settling into a couch in the alley in front of the restaurant, I had a deconstructed sabich — a breakfast sandwich of Iraqi origin made of fried eggplant and hardboiled egg that’s a popular Israeli street food. (Try a regular sabich too, at Sabich Hasharon, a small storefront in Tel Aviv that specializes in them.)

The market itself, surrounded by Yefet, Beit Eshel and Yehuda Margoza streets, is a paradise for those itching to debate trash versus treasure. Across several alleys, vendors spread wares on the ground and stack them in stalls.

There are antiques, furniture, clothing, trinkets, coins. On Friday mornings and summer Tuesdays, a pop-up market of crafts and jewelry gets added to the mix.

In the afternoon, a party erupts in the outdoor bars.

But don’t forget hummus. In Jaffa, you can’t eat enough hummus, the chickpea puree that’s a bedrock meal in Israel.

There’s Ali Caravan’s famous spot on HaDolphin Street, worth waiting in line for.

Another crowded hummus disher is Ha’Asli on Yefet Street, cacophonous with families, workers and tourists, all seeking the platters of hummus, labne, kebab and salads delivered to tables minutes after ordering.

You can watch the bakers at work at Abulafia, a popular bakery that stacks breads and other treasures in blue tile-lined glass cases by the sidewalk.

Jaffa’s food offerings also stretch beyond the Mediterranean. Inside Tash and Tasha’s romantic, stone-walled interior are delicious dips, dumplings and breads from Georgia (the country, not the U.S. state).

Milk, a coffee shop with limited seating,

has expensive coffee and pretty pastries.

Group cooking lessons Those interested in learning how to cook Arab food can take a class with a local. Myasser Seri has for years been hosting tutorials in her small kitchen.

She can put together a multi-course meal for your group to cook, or you can suggest dishes you’d like to try. Among the dishes we made were maqluba, a mound of rice or bulgur and vegetables inverted onto a plate; meatballs cooked in a sauce of tahini and yogurt; the parsleyand-bulgur salad, tabbouleh; and the Arabic dessert knafe. Her version had thin shreds of pastry and nuts cooked in butter, sugar and lemon.

Seri also introduced us to what she called the “Arabic Parmesan’’ — yogurt that had been dried in the sun to a rock-

hard lump. She grated the block into a powder whose sharp, savory tang did indeed recall Parmesan cheese, and added it to a salad of fried eggplant and thin-chopped celery.

Prices for her lessons vary per person according to group size. See www.facebook.com/myassar.seri.

The port that Jonah used One of Jaffa’s most popular spots for tourists is the old port. Vessels have set sail here since ancient times; it’s even mentioned in the Biblical story of Jonah, referred to as “Joppa,’’ where Jonah embarked on the journey that led to his fateful encounter with a big fish — or, in some

versions of the story, a whale.

The port is still used by local fishermen, but it also offers seafood restaurants, shops and entertainment.

There’s plenty to eat and to buy in Jaffa.

But one of the best things to do there is simply wander and take in the contrasts. Doors set in old stone walls are catnip for Instagrammers; turn the corner, and there’s a block of modern apartment buildings. Galleries abound, but the streets create their own art.

To lear n more about Jaf fa, go to https://new.goisrael.com/article/178.

The least expensive roundtrip airfare from the Washington area in early November is $808 on Turkish Airlines departing from Dulles.

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Delaware From page 26 Brandywine River Museum is renowned for its collection of works by N.C., Andrew and Jamie Wyeth. The houses and studios where N.C. and Andrew lived and painted are open to the public.

So many artists still work in the area that both Wilmington and Kennett Square, a tiny nearby community, host monthly gallery events.

The region also boasts intriguing chapters of history. A replica of the Kalmar Nyckel, the tall ship that brought Swedish settlers to the New World in 1638, is available for tours and hands-on sailing excursions.

The John Dickerson Plantation was the boyhood home of one of the country’s founding fathers. He penned the phrase “United we stand, divided we fall,” and was a delegate to the Continental Congress and a drafter of the U.S. Constitution.

The plantation is one of seven sites located in the First State National Historical Park, which extends the length of the state. Others include the forest where Native Americans and early European settlers lived; the site of Fort Christina, where colonists aboard the Kalmar Nyckel and another ship first landed and built a fortress and community, and Old Swedes Church, which was constructed in 1698 and is the oldest in America still used for

worship.

Fort Delaware, which occupies colorfully named Pea Patch Island, was built in 1815 to protect the Wilmington and Philadelphia harbors. It was destroyed by fire and rebuilt prior to the Civil War, at which time it was converted to a prisoner of war camp. At one time, it held some 12,500 Confederate soldiers who had been captured at Gettysburg.

While guided tours, Civil War enactors and other scheduled programs provide interesting information, I came across halfhidden gems that added a very personal touch to life at the fort when it was in active use.

Among them: Seasonal ghost tours introduce spirits that some believe haunt the site. A children’s alphabet learning book includes the letters H for “Hard-tack you scarcely can gnaw” and R for “Retreat, may you never be there.” A cook book from the time, which made me glad my Army service was more recent, included recipes for eel soup and calves feet (“Boil three hours”).

Another story traces parts of the role and journey of African-Americans. Cultural achievements of Delaware-born AfricanAmericans are recalled and celebrated at the Delaware History Museum.

The Delaware segment of the Underground Railroad, which escaped slaves followed on their journey to freedom, includes pathways and sites associated with

N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 8 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

Harriet Tubman, Quaker abolitionists, and others who risked much to provide assistance. An impressive and moving statue of Tubman looks out over the park.

The Wilmington Riverfront attracts people who stop to read the historical plaques, strollers and joggers, and others drawn by the selection of places to eat.

Nearby is a sign at the dock from which the small ferry boat departs for Pea Patch Island and Fort Delaware. It reads, “Prepare to enter the past.” That comment applies equally to much that awaits visitors to Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley.

If you go Given the rich history of the area, it’s not surprising that visitors have a choice of accommodations that relate chapters of that interesting story.

The Inn at Montchanin Village traces its lineage back to the 18th century, when a tiny settlement grew on a small plot of land at the intersection of three roads that are believed to have followed Native American trails. The hamlet that evolved from that modest beginning now includes 21 lovingly restored structures sprawled across a tranquil setting of landscaped walkways, gentle terraces and attractive gardens.

The Inn’s 28 rooms and suites are located in separate buildings that originally served as apartments for workers. They’re lush with 19th century antiques and reproductions that set a scene of casual elegance and add to

the sense of traveling back in time. Room rates begin at $192, and discounts and packages are available. For more information, call (800) 269-2473 or visit montchanin.com.

An equally inviting alternative are the nine distinct properties — ranging from mansion and manor house to farmhouse and historic inn — that comprise Brandywine Valley Bed & Breakfasts. One is a dwelling house dating to 1714, one served as a safe haven of the Underground Railroad, and another offers outdoor amenities including a fully-stocked pond, tennis court and putting green. For more information, see www.bvbb.com.

As for dining, colorfully named Krazy Kat’s restaurant at the Inn at Montchanin Village, which occupies a converted blacksmith’s shop, specializes in fresh seasonal ingredients like butter-poached lobster ($18) and crispy duck breast ($19). Succulent sides (all $8) include “exotic mushrooms” and maple-scented sweet potatoes.

A favorite with locals is Buckley’s Tavern, a 19th-century house, former stagecoach stop and toll gate. Among “comfort cuisine” it offers (so identified on the menu) are meatloaf and chicken pot pie (each $19.95), shrimp and grits ($24.95), and a long list of sandwiches. For more information, call (302) 656-9776 or go to www.buckleystavern.com.

For information about Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley, call (800) 489-6664 or see www.visitwilmingtonde.com.

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Beware of travel insurance from airlines “Flyer Beware” is the heading of a new re- OTAs, only Southwest does not offer such port on travel insurance, but that’s different insurance. Presumably, that’s because from “Don’t Buy.” Although Southwest travelers don’t some writers have picked up on need it: Southwest travelers the report as a recommendacan cancel or change a ticket tion to avoid travel insurance, without paying the punitive generally, that really isn’t the fees the other airlines charge. case.

Among the other 15 outlets, Instead, the report focuses 14 sell similar policies from eion the insurance policies that ther Allianz or AIG insurance. airlines and online travel Typically, those policies are agencies (OTA) offer automore-or-less standard tripmatically during the buying TRAVEL TIPS cancellation, trip-interruption process for air tickets. policies that also inbundled

By Ed Perkins The report was compiled by clude limited medical and the office of Sen. Edward J. Markey (D- other miscellaneous benefits.

Mass.), and what it really says is that those policies — typically offered as an “opt in, Limited coverage Typical policy prices average about 6 1/2 opt out” choice after you’ve selected a flight — may not be a good buy. They are often percent of the ticket price for domestic trips overpriced, more restrictive, or both, than and 7 percent for international trips. Those the traditional travel insurance you can buy typical policies are very restrictive in the range of “covered reasons” included, meanthrough a third-party insurance agency.

The Markey report noted that the typi- ing that claims have a high likelihood of decal airline and OTA booking system is nial.

The report clearly states its reason for strongly biased to encourage travelers to buy the insurance as part of the booking the “Beware” heading. It notes, “A search process. You’ve seen those pages as you of third-party travel insurance comparison scroll through the process: In effect, they websites such as Squaremouth.com or Insay “you really should buy this insurance” suremytrip.com shows the wide availability of similarly priced policies with more roand “you take a big risk by declining it.”

Among 16 largest U.S. airlines and bust and flexible coverage.” The idea of in-

surance isn’t a “beware” situation; it’s the price and coverage of the policies the airlines and OTAs sell that need a close look.

In examining the reports results, I found that the benefits the opt-in policies offered were likely to be adequate to meet the needs of most travelers. But I also confirmed the report’s finding that third-party policies generally provide better coverage at lower prices that range from four to six percent of total trip costs.

Thus, the real takeaway from the Markey report is not that you shouldn’t buy travel insurance at all. Instead, the primary conclusion is that you probably shouldn’t buy the travel insurance your airline or OTA pitches during the booking process. Instead, find a better deal through a third-party agency.

If you’re 70 or older The main exception to this conclusion is for travelers age 70 or over. Prices for most third-party travel insurance policies increase with increasing age — and they increase very rapidly above age 70.

I spoke with representatives of both AIG and Allianz, and both assured me that the policies sold through airlines and OTAs do

not include any maximum age cutoff.

The insurance situation is yet another instance of airlines’ shooting themselves in the foot. There’s a reason airlines assess outrageous ticket change fees, starting at $200 for the big airlines and going well over $500 for some tickets: Those fees act to minimize use of cheap nonrefundable tickets by business travelers, and that’s actually good for leisure travelers.

But they also create real pain-points for the few leisure travelers who suddenly have to cancel a trip, while they’re already stressed by an illness or accident in the family. Because airlines stonewall those customer complaints, consumers turn to Congress for relief — which, if enacted, would result in massive whining by the airlines.

Instead of whining, they could develop cancellation-only insurance — based strictly on medical reasons and with lenient exclusions — that would sell for low enough prices that consumers could blame only themselves for costly cancellations.

Send e-mail to Ed Perkins at eperkins@mind.net. Also, check out Ed’s new rail travel website at www.rail-guru.com. © 2018 Tribune Content Agency, LLC

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N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 8 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

What’s going on in HoCo? Dance Learn to Swing Dance Learn to swing dance! Be sure to sign up separately for the Swing Dance Socials to try out your latest moves.

55 + Classes: 6 $89 RP3532.201 Elkridge 50+ Ctr

Jan 10

7-8:25pm Th

Fitness

• Fitness waiver must be completed prior to exercising.

Beginner Mat Pilates Improve your flexibility and strengthen your core, thereby protecting your back and improving your posture.

55 + Classes: 8 $68 RP3514.201 Roger Carter Comm Ctr

Reignite the excitement of years past and explore our great new offerings.

Creating Visual Stories with Mixed Media Learn how to use everyday and found objects, types of paint, paper, fiber, and other materials to create a wall mount mixed media piece and 3-D mixed media piece.

10% off when 2 or more people register by phone together.

Balance, Strength and Fitness with Lori Nowicki, ACE, AFPA

55 + Classes: 7 $69 RP3516.201 Cedar Lane Rec Ctr

M

10am-noon

Th

LifeLong Learning

Photography Digital Photography 101 Come learn the basic elements and techniques that help produce compelling photos, then apply those concepts with hands-on assignments. 10% off when 2 or more people register by phone together.

55 + Classes: 4 $65 RP3521.202 Elkridge 50+ Ctr Jan 10 6-8pm Th 55 + Classes: 6 $95 RP3521.201 Belmont Jan 8 9:30-11:30am Tu

10:45-11:30am

M

Relax with a slower-paced class that is great for beginners.

7-9pm

10am-noon M 1:15-3:15pm M

Jan 7

Gentle Yoga/Yoga 1 with Kathy Whelan, RYT-200 55 yrs + Classes: 6 $49 RP3515.201 Elkridge 50+ Ctr RP3515.202 Bain Ctr

Drawing & Painting with Zina 55 + Classes: 7 Jan 14 $120 RP0302.201 Kiwanis-Wallas Hall RP0302.202 Gary J Arthur Comm Ctr

8am-9am Tu,Th

With the use of the BOSU stability ball, light weights and resistance bands, learn exercises that train the body for daily life activities.

Crafts & Fine Arts

55 + Jan 7 Classes: 6 $89 RP3525.202 Gary J Arthur Comm Ctr 55 + Jan 10 Classes: 6 $89 RP3525.201 N Laurel Comm Ctr

Jan 8

Jan 8 Jan 10

6-7pm 5-6pm

Tu Th

Self Defense for Active Adults Discover the defensive techniques of former Howard County Police Officer Derek Johnson. Learn basic precautions that allow you to avoid potentially dangerous situations.

55 + Classes: 5 $72 RP3517.201 Roger Carter Comm Ctr RP3517.202 Bain Ctr

Jan 9 Jan 9

10-11am 1-2pm

W W

Fundamentals of Modern Table Tennis with Jeff Smart Through the lessons of ITTF Level 2 Certified Coach Jeff Smart, beginners learn the proper techniques to execute the forehand and backhand topspin drive, underspin push and basic footwork.

55 + Howard County Table Tennis Center Classes: 10 RP3530.201 Beginner Jan 10 10:30am-noon Th $160

For a complete listing of classes or information please visit www.howardcountymd.gov/encore.

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December Mount Vernon Candlelight Tour and Dinner Enjoy a festive evening at Mount Vernon, home of President George Washington! Listen to the sounds of the season, take a lantern-lit tour of the historic area, and enjoy cookies while sipping warm cider.

21 yrs + $125 RP4524.101 Dec 1 Sa

The Kennedy Center: Ballet West’s The Nutcracker Featuring grand sets and fantastical costumes alongside Tchaikovsky’s cherished score, this Nutcracker is a glittering, larger-than-life adventure for the entire family.

16 yrs + $175 RP4527.101 Dec 8 Noon-6pm

Sa

A Christmas Carol at Ford’s Theater Join the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future as they lead the miserly Scrooge on a journey of transformation.

November Franklin Institute: Vikings – Beyond the Legend Explore more than 600 authentic archaeological relics that reveal the story of the Viking warriors who set sail from Scandinavia a thousand years ago in search of new lands.

16 yrs + $100 RP4521.101 Nov 8

8am-4pm Th

Magnificent MD: Star Spangled Banner Flag House Built in 1793, the Flag House was once the home and business place of Mary Pickersgill, who sewed the garrison flag Francis Scott Key witnessed flying over Fort McHenry that inspired him to write our national anthem.

16 yrs + $35 RP4541.101 Nov 7

9am-2pm W

The National Museum of the Marine Corps Situated on a 135-acre site adjacent to the Marine Corps Base in Quantico, Virginia, the museum’s design evokes the image of the flag-raisers of Iwo Jima and beckons visitors to this 120,000-square-foot structure. World-class interactive exhibits use innovative technology.

6 yrs + Long Gate Park & Ride or Bain Ctr RP4513.501 Dec 9 10:30am-4pm Sa $100

Magnificent MD: National Cryptologic Museum Located adjacent to NSA Headquarters at Ft. Meade, the Museum houses a collection of thousands of artifacts from the history of cryptology. Visitors can catch a glimpse of some of the most dramatic moments in the history of American cryptology: the people who devoted their lives to cryptology and national defense, the machines and devices they developed, the techniques they used, and the places where they worked.

16 yrs + $35 RP4542.101 Dec 13

9:30am-1pm Th

alking from bus to a seat (ex: a theatre) W alking with seating available W (ex: museum seating) Lots of walking & standing with some opportunities to sit Lots of walking (over a mile)

16 yrs + $60, individual; 10% off two or more people RP4522.101 Nov 13 9am-5pm Tu

Monticello: Tour and Holiday Wreath Workshop Discover the home of our third President, Thomas Jefferson.

Following the tour, enjoy a scenic lunch at the on-site café. Then make a beautiful holiday wreath. Monticello staff lead you in a three-hour workshop. Materials included. Bring hand pruners.

18 yrs + $200 RP4523.101 Nov 29

6:30am-6pm Th

REGISTRATION 410-313-7275, www.howardcountymd.gov/rap, or 7120 Oakland Mills Road, Columbia, MD 21046

INFORMATION Tracy Adkins, 410-313-7279 or tadkins@howardcountymd.gov

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N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 8 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

INFORMATION 410-313-0200 | www.belmontmanormd.org

How Mediumship Works and the Spirit Treasure Discover mediumship and how to discover signs from those who have passed. This talk discusses how medium Rob Gutro was led on a journey that proves a man’s spirit was with each member of his family after his death and solves the mystery of his passing.

18 yrs + RP9914.101

Nov 13

7:30-9pm Tu

$15

Introduction to Ghost Investigating What is the difference between a ghost and a spirit? This lecture explores that complex question. Hear why spirits stay behind and are unable to move on, or how ghosts cross over into spirits.

Discover how they’re detected using science and technology.

18 yrs + RP9902.101

Dec 11

7:30-9pm Tu

$15

Belmont Manor & Historic Park Open Houses Family Holiday Open House All ages Dec 2 1-5pm Su Free Holiday Open House 18 yrs + Dec 16 3-6pm Su Free

Ghosts of England Lecture What happens when a medium goes on vacation? Rob Gutro is a medium/author/paranormal investigator and a scientist who has written four books about his encounters with human and animal ghosts and spirits. Join him as he shares his experiences from two separate trips to the United Kingdom.

13 yrs + Classes: 1 RP9902.301 Belmont Jan 15

7:30-9pm Tu

$15

Afternoon Tea Enjoy an Afternoon Tea in the stately Belmont Manor, built in 1738. Tempt your palette with a bottomless pot of tea, a manor scone with clotted cream and jam, tea savories and unique desserts. After “taking tea”, we invite you to enjoy a self-guided tour.

Seating is communal. Preregistration is required.

12 yrs + RP9900.201 Belmont Jan 26

2-4:30pm

Sa

$35

4no Ö GÈ nØ^ Ç GiÔn ÇÍ·n¾ Öo GÔo ¥ G njv Enjoy Winter Activities & Sports With Us!

Registration starts December 5.

For a full list of Adult classes go to www.howardcountymd.gov/adultprograms.

410-313-7275 | www.howardcountymd.gov/rap HoCoParks APP

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Our GO50+ membership packages are designed to enhance the quality of life for the 50+ adult population that lives, works and plays in Howard County.

Live longer, healthier lives… join today!

CENTERS Membership includes access to Gary J. Arthur and N. Laurel Community Centers and all Howard County 50+ Centers.

Fitness Membership includes access to Gary J. Arthur, N. Laurel and Roger Carter Community Centers as well as all Howard County 50+ Centers.

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Resident: $75 per year Nonresident: $100 per year

Membership includes access to Gary J. Arthur, N. Laurel and Roger Carter Community Centers as well as all Howard County 50+ Centers.

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Resident: $175 per year Nonresident: $225 per year

* Dance/Aerobics Studio not available at Ellicott City 50+ Center.

ELKRIDGE 50+ Fitness Center 6540 Washington Boulevard Elkridge, MD 21075 410-313-5192 www.howardcountymd.gov/aging 8:30 AM-4 PM, M-F

ELLICOTT CITY 50+ Fitness Center 9411 Frederick Road Ellicott City, 21042 Voice/relay: 410-313-0727 www.howardcountyaging.org 8:30 AM-8 PM, M-W; 8:30 AM-4:30 PM, Th-F

GARY J. ARTHUR Community Center 2400 Rte 97, Cooksville, 21723 Voice/relay: 410-313-4840 Status line: 410-313-4452 www.howardcountymd.gov/GJACC 7 AM-9 PM, M-Sa; 9 AM-6 PM, Su

NORTH LAUREL Community Center 9411 Whiskey Bottom Road Laurel, 20723 Voice/relay: 410-313-0390 Status line: 410-313-4452 www.howardcountymd.gov/NLCC 8 AM-9 PM, M-Sa; 9 AM-6 PM, Su

ROGER CARTER Community Center 3000 Milltowne Drive Ellicott City, 21043 Voice/relay: 410-313-2764 Status line: 410-313-4452 www.howardcountymd.gov/RCCC 6 AM-10 PM, M-F; 7 AM-10 PM, Sa; 7 AM-9 PM, Su

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Style Arts &

Young piano prodigy Nathan Lee will perform on Oct. 27 as part of the Candlelight Concert Society’s 46th season.

Lighting up the stage with chamber music Linehan Hall at UMBC. Ticket prices are kept moderate (with free companion tickets for youth) thanks to the large role donors play in supporting the organization and its concerts.

Started small, continues to grow Press said the Society got underway when Howard County private music teachers Virginia Steigler (piano), Olga Brunner (violin) and Ann Slaccavento formed a chamber music trio, the Belle Arte Ensemble, to present four recitals a year.

Later, they added five additional concerts by local musicians to get the Candlelight Concert Society underway. The group registered as a nonprofit organization in 1975.

Its performances attracted many local residents who, while not musicians themselves, were chamber music fans, said Press, a chemical engineer and statistics expert.

For example, Press noted that the late Norman Winkler, an early Columbia resident and community organizer who worked for the defense department, “loved, and had a deep knowledge of, chamber music. He was a Renaissance man,” Press recalled.

In the 1980s, the Society expanded its of-

PHOTO BY CHRIS FANNING

By Robert Friedman The Candlelight Concert Society is celebrating its 46th year of bringing chamber music by renowned musicians and groups to Howard County audiences.

What began in 1972 as a venue for local music teachers and musicians to perform, has expanded over the years to feature world-class artists like cellist Yo-Yo Ma, mezzo-soprano Marilyn Horne, the Emerson String Quartet, and the Billy Taylor trio, led by the late Kennedy Center jazz director.

“There’s just something special about attending a chamber music concert,” said Phillip Press, the Society’s current treasurer and former president. “You see the musicians interacting with one another, the expressions on their faces, things that are not available at big symphony orchestra concerts.”

Concerts are generally presented at the Smith Theatre, one of the performing arts venues at the Horowitz Center at Howard Community College. The theatre has an intimate feel despite its capacity of 424, enhanced by the lit candle that always adorns the stage at Society concerts.

Recently, the Society has also begun to offer occasional concerts in Baltimore at

The REBEL quintet will play music from the Baroque period, including Vivaldi and Telemann, as part of the Candlelight Concert Society’s concert series on Dec. 1.

ferings to include internationally known artists. Its artistic director Irina Kaplan Lande, who has taught piano and chamber music on the faculty of the Peabody Institute for over 20 years, selects the varied program.

In store this season Its upcoming concert at 7 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 27 features Nathan Lee, the 17year-old piano phenom who won the 2016 Young Concert Artists competition in New York at the age of 15.

Lee, who hails from the Seattle area, made his Washington, D.C. debut in April at the

Kennedy Center. A Washington Post review found the young man “immensely self-assured” and his playing “virtually note perfect …poised …persuasive…a model of clarity.”

Lande, herself a noted pianist trained in St. Petersburg, Russia, said that at a recent recital she noticed “not only his technical efficiency and understanding of the music, but also the sheer joy everyone in the audience felt when he was playing.”

The following concert, on Saturday, Dec. 1 at 7 p.m., features the New York-based See CONCERTS, page 37

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Cookbooks help when companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s coming Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the season to return to the warmth sure and steady guide to preparing the deliof hearth and home. Expand your culinary cious foods of a myriad of cultures. skills and delight your family The Milk Street recipe for and company with new and brown ale turkey with gravy is enticing dishes, courtesy of a sure hit. The 12- to 14-pound the many marvelous recipes turkey is pan-roasted in brown in these books. ale, onions, garlic and fresh Christopher Kimballâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s herbs. The stuffing is an easyMilk Street: The New Home bake herb dressing. Pumpkin Cooking, by Christopher tart, detailed in the dessert secKimball with Matthew Card, tion, and the accompanying J.M. Hirsch, Michelle Locke honey-orange whipped cream and Jennifer Baldino Cox, will make your Thanksgiving 336 pages, Little, Brown and THE meal a culinary smash.

Company, 8.8 x 1.1 x 11 BIBLIOPHILE How to Cook Everything By Dinah Rokach inches, hardcover, 2017 Vegetarian: Simple MeatBoston cooking school less Recipes for Great Food, founder and TV cooking show host Christo- Completely Revised Tenth Anniverpher Kimball has compiled sophisticated sary Edition, by Mark meals that can be easily prepared by the Bittman, photography by home cook.

Burcu Avsar and Zach DeThe 125 recipes in the book are divided Sart, illustrations by Alan by category. Prep time and cooking time, Witschonke, 832 pages, as well as number of servings, are listed at Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, the top of each recipe. Opposite, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find 8 x 1.7 x 9 inches, harda full-page color photograph of the com- cover, second edition 2017 pleted dish.

Renowned food writer An introductory chapter provides savvy Mark Bittman has comadvice on ingredients â&#x20AC;&#x201D; all of which are posed a veritable bible of available online if you cannot procure them vegetarian recipes in this revised edition of locally. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re ready to expand your culi- his classic cookbook. Novice cooks will nary repertoire, this book will serve as a find much to appreciate. In addition to the

streamlined, accessible recipes, handdrawn illustrations accompany the step-bystep instructions.

The basics of cutting, measuring and cooking, as well as information on food safety and reheating foods, are thoughtfully included, as are tips on selecting, buying and storing produce.

Each recipe in How to Cook Everything Vegetarian includes the number of servings, prep time and some include variations and optional ingredients. There are no calorie counts, however.

Recipes are keyed to indicate if they are vegan, if there is an alternate vegan version of the same recipe, if the dish can be made either completely or partially in advance, and if it can be prepared in 30 minutes or less.

Full-page color photographs accompany many of the recipes. Bittman even pares down the more than one-thousand dishes in the book to an appendix that highlights one hundred essential recipes and 76 great appetizers.

How to Cook Vegetarian will become a treasured keepsake. Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re a vegetarian or vegan, are cooking for someone with those food preferences, or just want to learn how to prepare healthy food, this

no-frills guide by a knowledgeable expert is a must.

Sweet: Desserts from Londonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ottolenghi, by Yotam Ottolenghi and Helen Goh with Tara Wigley, 368 pages, Ten Speed Press hardcover, 2017 For the confident baker, the thought of being able to replicate pastry shop confections â&#x20AC;&#x201D; guided by professional chefs in an easy-to-follow cookbook â&#x20AC;&#x201D; is exhilarating.

The 110 recipes in Sweet are accompanied by full-page color photographs, precise instructions, tips on techniques, and advice on selecting ingredients. The maximum storage time in the freezer for preparatory stages and the number of days leftovers will stay fresh is usefully provided.

There is neither information on calories nor an index of recipes. However, the table of contents groups the recipes by category. Be sure to read the notes and glossary at the back before embarking on your baking adventure. Gluten-free and nut-free recipes are labelled.

Best-selling London-based cookbook author, restaurant owner and chef Yotam Ottolenghi and pastry chef Helen Goh are generous in their advice. â&#x20AC;&#x153;[B]ake and rebake the same recipe until you can read it like an old friend.â&#x20AC;? Once youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve mastered them, the desserts are bound to impress your guests.

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Climate change From page 1 town upside down.

The two youngsters, according to the book’s blurb, “struggle to find their voices and their purpose for living while attempting to save their family and friends, their town, and civilization as we know it.”

Tillman noted that he started writing the book two years ago, the week after the supposed once-in-100-years flash flood hit Ellicott City in July 2016. (The historic city was flooded again by a second monster storm just this May).

“When I was writing the book, I was careful about putting in too much hyper-

bole and exaggeration. But nature was doing more extreme things, and I had to keep upping the ante,” he said.

Among other things, he said, was adding to the plot how the pavement of the streets of Sleepy Valley was starting to melt — something that actually has occurred in India and Australia.

“As far as a rogue climate is concerned, surrealism is turning into realism,” Tillman.

Proceeds from the book’s sales will go to environmental groups in the area, he added.

In one scene in the novel, Marley, the young man, dreams of himself as a prophet “in a long white robe, a graying beard and leather sandals, walking through the Dust Bowl deserts of North America…handing

Tillman’s 10 steps to a cooler planet 1. Reduce energy usage: insulate, drive less, use hybrids and electric vehicles.

2. Switch electricity supplier to 100 % solar or wind.

3. Buy sustainable products to incentivize businesses to make more of them.

4. Plant native trees and shrubs.

5. Support local and national environmental nonprofits.

6. Reduce meat consumption and food waste.

7. Encourage businesses and governments to support solar and wind energy development.

8. Encourage energy efficiency upgrades in all buildings and vehicles.

9. Support the expansion of interconnected green infrastructure networks.

10. Implement a national “carbon cap and dividend” policy or a “carbon tax” to pay for hidden costs to society of using dirty fuels.

N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 8 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

out clay tablets on which ‘10 Steps for a Cooler Planet’ had been inscribed.”

Those 10 steps, Tillman says, could and should be adopted right now in real life to help fight the currently predicted weather meltdown. They include reducing energy use, switching to solar or wind power, and planting trees. (See box below for all 10.)

Calling on local government Tillman is a former member of the Howard County Environmental Sustainability Board, which assists in implementing the county’s environmental agenda.

So, how is our local government doing in trying to battle climate change?

“It is not doing enough,” he said. “There are businesses and communities that are ahead of others in trying to stall climate change, but we need a lot more leadership, at all levels.

“Our county is kind of stuck in the mud,” Tillman claims. “We have a climate action plan, but it is not being pushed too much.”

In response to Tillman’s criticism, Howard County Executive Allan Kittleman said in a written statement; “We just hired the county’s first full-time energy manager, who is already working closely with our facilities and highways staffs to reduce energy demand and thereby reduce our greenhouse gas footprint. She is also reviewing the climate action plan.”

The new position was assumed in August

by Leah Miller, who had previously served

as Montgomery County’s sustainability program manager. She has also worked for the Izaak Walton League of America, a national conservation organization.

Renewable energy advocate Tillman, meanwhile, asserted that one of the most crucial steps that governments, and individuals, can take is to “use the energy from the Earth to heat and cool houses and buildings.”

Tillman said he has been using wind and solar energy for the last 10 years, and his energy bills have either been lower or remained the same as before he switched from fossil fuels. Making the switch ”is very easy to do,” he said.

Currently, these methods can have significant up-front costs and are not always as affordable as traditional energy. But an article in Forbes magazine earlier this year said that, according to a report from the International Renewable Energy Agency (composed of more than 150 member countries), “the cost of renewable energy is now falling so fast that it should be a consistently cheaper source of electricity generation than traditional fossil fuels within just a few years.”

Only weeks ago, the United Nations’ scientific panel on climate change issued a report painting a dire picture of the immediate consequences of climate change. The See CLIMATE CHANGE, page 37

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Concerts REBEL ensemble for Baroque music, whose work has been called “sophisticated and beguiling” by The New York Times.

The Society’s five remaining concerts for the 2018-2019 season include: pianist Nikolai Lugansky Saturday, Feb. 2, at 3 p.m., Smith Theater; Doric String Quartet, Saturday, Feb. 23 at 7 p.m., Smith Theater; Italian Saxophone Quartet, Sunday, March 31, at 3 p.m., Smith Theater; Ecco Chamber Orchestra, Saturday, April 13 at 7 p.m., Linehan Concert Hall at the University of Maryland, Baltimore

Climate change From page 36 report says that avoiding the damage requires transforming the world economy at a speed and scale that has “no documented historic precedent.”

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), a group of scientists convened by the United Nations to guide world leaders, predicted a world of worsening food shortages and wildfires, and a mass die-off of coral reefs as soon as 2040.

The report “is quite a shock, and quite concerning,” said Bill Hare, an author of previous IPCC reports and a physicist with Climate Analytics, a nonprofit organization. “We were not aware of this just a few years ago.”

The authors found that if greenhouse gas emissions continue at the current rate, the atmosphere will warm up by as much as 2.7 degrees Fahrenheit above pre-industrial levels by 2040, inundating coastlines and intensifying droughts and poverty.

Tillman said that he first got wind of global warming back in 1967, when he was

FROM PAGE 38 ANSWERS TO SCRABBLE

F L O O R

R O A D C O M P A N Y

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

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music on Wednesday, Nov. 14 at the Howard County Center for the Arts. This program is open to the public free of charge.

And the Doric String Quartet will hold a master class for student string groups on Sunday, Feb. 24 in a semi-private venue.

The master class is being co-sponsored by the American String Teachers Association and Peabody Institute of Johns Hopkins University.

Candlelight is hoping to soon schedule at least two more programs open to the public at county senior centers, according to Mina Hilsenrath, the society’s outreach and education chair.

a freshman at Franklin and Marshall College in Lancaster, Pa., where he was taking courses for his earth science major. He went on to earn a master’s degree in earth and environmental science from Syracuse University.

He noted that the use of energy was a headline-grabbing topic during the years

of President Carter, and was back in the news at the turn of the new century through the environmental activism of Vice President Al Gore.

In his view, it should once again be considered a — if not the — major issue facing Americans, as well as the rest of the world.

“It’s not too late to act,” Tillman said.

“My hope is that we can slow down global warming enough so that we can still produce food, reduce major floods and fires, and control invasive species from wreaking havoc on our natural support systems.

“The greatest challenge of this century,” Tillman reemphasized, “is how we cool down the Earth.”

S A R I O R H A E L R R A U A R T O A R L A E S

I G N I T E

C R I S P

M I I S S T T S O H I O

H A T A T E M M E P I E C E O F L A N D

Outreach to youth

We Turn Addresses

into homes

MOST COMMUNITIE S ARE 62 AND B ET T ER

ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY

BALTIMORE COUNTY (CONT.)

The Greens at Hammonds Lane: 410-636-1141 Park View at Furnace Branch: 410-761-4150 Park View at Severna Park: 410-544-3411

Park View at Randallstown: 410-655-5673 Park View at Rosedale: 410-866-1886 Park View at Taylor: 410-663-0363 Park View at Towson: 410-828-7185 Park View at Woodlawn: 410-281-1120

BALTIMORE CITY Ednor Apartments I: 410-243-0180 Ednor Apartments II: 410-243-4301 The Greens at Irvington Mews: 410-644-4487 Park Heights Place: 410-578-3445 Park View at Ashland Terrace: 410-276-6440 Park View at Coldspring: 410-542-4400

EASTERN SHORE Park View at Easton: 410-770-3070

HARFORD COUNTY Park View at Bel Air: 410-893-0064 Park View at Box Hill: 410-515-6115

BALTIMORE COUNTY

ANSWERS TO CROSSWORD A B B A

Throughout its history, the Society has also presented special programs at schools to interest children in music and encourage them to grow up to be concert-goers.

For example, the REBEL ensemble will appear on Nov. 30 at both Patuxent Valley Middle School and Centennial High School, while the Italian Saxophone Quartet will be performing on April 1 at several schools in the county. These programs, which include

brief performances, a question-and-answer session, and individual or small group tutoring, are not open to the public.

However, the Society also reaches out to the public at large with performances in hospitals, public libraries and senior centers. The 2018-2019 musical outreach sessions, which got underway last summer with five musical programs at the Miller Library geared to families with small children, will continue Feb. 9 with a family “CandleKids” program at the Howard County Conservancy.

REBEL group members will also present a lecture on Baroque art, architecture and

Campus; concluding with the Escher String Quartet with Christopher Shih, piano, on Saturday, May 11 at 7 p.m., Smith Theater.

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Cove Point Apartments I: 410-288-2344 Cove Point Apartments II: 410-288-1660 Evergreen Senior Apartments: 410-780-4888 The Greens at English Counsul: 410-789-3000 The Greens at Liberty Road: 410-655-1100 The Greens at Logan Field: 410-288-2000 The Greens at Rolling Road: 410-744-9988 Park View at Catonsville: 410-719-9464 Park View at Dundalk: 410-288-5483 Park View at Fullerton: 410-663-0665 Park View at Miramar Landing: 410-391-8375

HOWARD COUNTY Park View at Colonial Landing: 410-796-4399 Park View at Columbia: 410-381-1118 Park View at Ellicott City: 410-203-9501 Park View at Ellicott City: II 410-203-2096 Park View at Emerson: 301-483-3322 Park View at Snowden River: 410-290-0384

PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY Park View at Bladensburg: 301-699-9785 • 55 & Better Park View at Laurel: 301-490-1526 Park View at Laurel II: 301-490-9730

Call the community nearest you to inquire about eligibility requirements and to arrange a personal tour. www.rhomecommunities.com MOST COMMUNITIES ARE PET-FRIENDLY

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N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 8 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

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Crossword Puzzle Daily crosswords can be found on our website: www.TheBeaconNewspapers.com Click on Puzzles Plus Dull Puzzle 1

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Scrabble answers on p. 37.

5

Across

67. Lyrical poem

1. Prepare mozzarella sticks 4.ADirty pool 8. Communicate by texts 12. Ingredient in Edge Shave Gel for Sensitive Skin 13. Largest member of the dolphin family 14. Having a conniption 15. Target of Battleship 16. Homophone of pair and pare 17. Easy putt 18. Subject of “Curious Behavior: Yawning, Laughing, Hiccupping, and Beyond” 21. Rainbow shape 22. Cal. pages with pictures of ghosts 23. Fudge ___ (Turkey Hill flavor) 27. Gumbo near-necessity 29. Royal wedding-ware 30. iPhone’s operating system 31. Basic building block 36. Car trip game 37. Place for custom potatoes (or potato vodka) 38. Maker of slushy drinks, since 1958 39. Black tie galas, sometimes 44. Looooonnng time 45. Ready to give birth 46. “Our religion teaches ___ be intelligent (Malcolm X) 47. Carrier that may take off when pigs fly 49. Go-___ (mini-racer) 51. Pike’s Peak hazard 54. Trait of a dull puzzle (and this one) 57. Special committee 60. Pessimist of Wall Street 61. Frozen precipitation 62. “___, I hope there are tapes” (James Comey) 63. 1967 Grammy Lifetime Achievement honoree, Fitzgerald 64. Lodges 65. Spell H-O-R-S-E first 66. AAA map lines

Down 1. Elevator stop 2. They’re coming to perform at a town near you!

3. Mythical snowman 4. Criminal with no originality 5. Not slouching 6. Scurries away 7. Hindu dress 8. Apple dessert 9. Omelet bar option 10. Cash dispenser 11. Last in “FIRST” 12. Dancing Queen quartet 14. Start up the grill 19. Forsaken 20. Thermometer category 24. Acquisition, in Risk or Monopoly 25. Recluse 26. ___ Park, Colo.

28. The 18th item on a guard’s chain 29. German mister 31. Chops into cubes 32. ___ in the Dark 33. Get ___ (advance to the next round) 34. Schoolboy 35. Output from a witch’s cauldron 40. Foolishness 41. Stadium greenspace 42. Polar lights 43. Suffix for true believers 48. Battery plus side 49. Prepared to meet the new king, on Game of Thrones 50. ___ of Two Cities 52. Sheepish 53. Colgate’s alternative to paste 55. Ridesharing innovator 56. Distributer of 18 electoral votes 57. Every last bit 58. Scooby-___ 59. Day breaks, briefly

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 8

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.

Entertainment LONG COMMUTE ON TRANSIT? The Penn Line Captive has just released Gateway Boy, by G. Vercingetorix, for download to your device via Amazon!

Financial DONATE YOUR CAR, TRUCK OR BOAT to Heritage for the Blind. Free 3-Day Vacation, Tax Deductible, Free Towing, All Paperwork Taken Care Of. CALL 1-844-855-7670.

GOT AN OLDER CAR, VAN OR SUV? Do the humane thing. Donate it to the Humane Society. Call 1-844-230-2952.

For Rent/Sale: Real Estate RENTING SPACIOUS ONE BEDROOM with private bathroom for $740 per month, including utilities. This is a single-family home in a quiet neighborhood. 240-350-9392.

Say you saw it in the Beacon

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.

Health PORTABLE OXYGEN CONCENTRATOR — May Be Covered by Medicare! Reclaim independence and mobility with the compact design and long-lasting battery of Inogen One. Free information kit! Call 855-851-0949.

STOP OVERPAYING for your prescriptions!

SAVE! Call our licensed Canadian and International pharmacy, compare prices and get $25.00 OFF your first prescription! CALL 1-888-9817657 Promo Code CDC201725.

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:

DENTAL INSURANCE. Call Physicians Mutual Insurance Company for details. Not just a discount plan, real coverage for 350 procedures. 844366-1003 or http://www.dental50plus.com/320 Ad# 6118.

The Beacon, Baltimore Classified Dept.

P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915-2227 TV/Cable

Wanted

DIRECTV. CALL AND SWITCH NOW — Get NFL Sunday Ticket for FREE! Every Game. Every Sunday. CHOICE- All-Included Package. Over 185 Channels. $60/month (for 12 Months.) CALL 1- 888-572-4953.

CASH FOR JEWELRY. Gold, silver, watches, sterling silver sets and items, costume. Gary Roman. 301-520-0755.

Legal Services WERE YOU AN INDUSTRIAL OR CONSTRUCTION TRADESMAN and recently diagnosed with lung cancer? You and your family may be entitled to a significant cash reward.

Call 1-888-351-0312 for your risk free consultation.

SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY? Up to $2,671/mo. (Based on paid-in amount.) Free evaluation! Call Bill Gordon & Associates. 1866-970-0779. Mail: 2420 N St NW, Washington, D.C. Office: Broward Co. FL., member TX/NM Bar.

Miscellaneous ENJOY 100% GUARANTEED, DELIVERED to-the-door Omaha Steaks! Save 75% plus get 4 more Burgers & 4 more Kielbasa FREE! Order The Family Gourmet Buffet — ONLY $49.99. Call 1-844-302-3754, mention code 51689JCT or visit www.omahasteaks.com.

Personals CUTE, ATTRACTIVE FEMALE, FIFTIES — Looking for single white male, fifties/early sixties, attractive, robust, medium/large build, reliable, warm-hearted, romantic. Enjoy dates, companionship, devoted relationship. If interested, call 240-418-4124, leave voice message/ph#.

DISH Network. 190+ CHANNELS. FREE Install. FREE Hopper HD-DVR. $49.99/month (24 months) Add High Speed Internet - $14.95 (where avail.) CALL Today & SAVE 25%! 1844-560-5837.

SPECTRUM TRIPLE PLAY! TV, Internet & Voice for $29.99 ea. 60 MB per second speed. No contract or commitment. More Channels.

Faster Internet. Unlimited Voice. Call 1-888366-7573.

Wanted COLLECTOR BUYING MILITARY ITEMS: Helmets, weapons, knives, swords, bayonets, web gear, uniforms, etc. from all wars and countries. Also Lionel Toy Trains, and coin operated machines. Will pay top prices for my personal collection. Discreet consultations. Call Fred, 301-910-0783.

MONEY, TIME TO SELL! Make the right choice. Call Greg, 717-658-7954. We buy jewelry, coins, silver, antiques, watches, gold, art, paper money, toys, bottles, comic books and records, etc. No middleman, no fees, no overhead means more money for your stuff. Give me a call, and let’s do business.717-658-7954.

ESTATE LIQUIDATION & COLLECTIBLES: One call solves it all when you hire us to handle your estate liquidation, downsizing and/or home cleanout. We sell your treasures, take care of charitable donations and provide junk removal. We also purchase partial estate contents/collections. Always buying antiques, jewelry, fine art, vintage toys, collectibles, advertising, sports memorabilia, military items, rare books, Mid-Century Modern furniture and more. Based in Silver Spring, we serve Montgomery County, Howard County, Baltimore County, Washington, D.C., NOVA and beyond.

No home, barn or warehouse is too packed for us! Friendly, conscientious staff. Call Chris on cell, 202-731-9447. www.OrionsAttic.com.

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.

MILITARY ITEMS WANTED: Collector seeks to purchase military uniforms; flight jackets, patches, insignia, medals, etc. from the Civil War through Vietnam. Especially seeking U.S. Army Air Corps, USMC, Airborne, and German/Japanese/Italian items from WWII. ALSO BUYING old Boy Scout, Airline Items, Toys, Lighters. Call Dan, 202-841-3062.

ADVERTISERS IN THIS ISSUE Events COGS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36

Financial Services Edward Jones/John Dove . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

Funeral Services Going Home Cremations . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 Harry H. Witzke’s Family Funeral Home, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 Sol Levinson & Bros., Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . .23

Frank, Frank & Scherr, LLC . . . . . . . . . . .17 Lifson Law . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23

Medical/Health Ellicott City Smile Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Medical Eye Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 Trilogy Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Vitality Integrated Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 VitaScript Optimal Health . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

Subscriptions Beacon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38

Technology Beacon Silver Pages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 TheBeaconNewspapers.com . . . . . . . . . . .18

Theatre/Entertainment

Long & Foster-Nellie Arrington . . . . . . . .17

Candlelight Concert Society . . . . . . . . . . .36 Columbia Pro Cantare . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34 Toby’s Dinner Theatre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35

Home Health Care

Retail/Services

Tour & Travel

A-1 Action Nursing Care . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 HomeCentris Personal Care . . . . . . . . . . .10 Options for Senior America . . . . . . . . . . .15

Antwerpen Hyundai . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1 Columbia’s Village Centers . . . . . . . . . . . .25 Copper Zap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Magic Mountain Chimney Sweeps . . . . . . .4 Perfect Sleep Chair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28 Zinger Chair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24

Dunes Manor Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27 Eyre Tour & Travel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29

Housing Brooke Grove . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9, 40 Charlestown/Erickson Living . . . . . . . . . .10 Heartlands Senior Living . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Park View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37 Shriner Court . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34 Somerford Place . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

Legal Services Angels of Eldercare Planning . . . . . . . . . .25

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Real Estate Services

Senior Services Howard County Recreation & Parks . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30-33 Howard County Senior Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19-22

Voting Calvin Ball for County Executive . . . . . . . .3 Howard County Board of Elections . . . . . .6 John Sarbanes for Congress . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Kittleman for County Executive . . . . . . . . .1

Volunteers Meals on Wheels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

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DIFFERENT

because what surrounds you really matters.

Thursday, november 1 10 A.M. – 1 p.m.

Westbrooke Clubhouse • 18310 Slade School Road • Sandy Spring, MD 20860

MAINTENANCE-FREE LIVING NEVER LOOKED SO BEAUTIFUL

Sign up for one of two optional information sessions to be offered at 11:15 a.m. & 12:15 p.m.

Discover the casual elegance and comfort of our independent living cottages.

TOUR a cottage and MEET current residents.

Explore Westbrooke Clubhouse, its restaurant and fitness center.

Enjoy our 220-acre campus of lush pastures and hardwood forest.

Learn L earn how how to become a no-obligation no priority iorityy llist ist member, membber, examine financial finan ncial options and a review the lon long-term ng-term benefits beenefifitts of of a secure securre lifestyle lifestyle with continuing uin ng care. caree.

301-260-2320 or 301-924-2811

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

by October 30.

www.bgf.org

Independent living assisted living rehabilitation l ta at on long-term care memory support

INDEPENDENT LIVING OPEN HOUSE

simply