November 2021 | Howard County Beacon by The Beacon Newspapers

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From local band to Hollywood star

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PHOTO COURTESY OF JOHNNY ALONSO

By Nick Clarkson For actor, producer and Ellicott City native Johnny Alonso, the road to Hollywood didn’t start in the traditional way. The son of two doctors, Alonso first took to the stage as a teenager with a band he formed with his brother, James, and two neighbors. As lead guitarist and singer for the band, Alonso discovered his love for performing. “That’s really where my acting career began,” said Alonso, now 51. “Being in a band, I figured out that there was a lot of acting on stage. Whether you believe it or not, it’s a show...It’s all an act. And I realized that there were ways of controlling the crowd by a certain way of acting.” With their unique sound and talent, the band managed to make two records and tour across the country during Alonso’s late teenage years. But when he was 19, the band fell apart. “After [the band] dissolved…I realized right then and there that I still wanted to entertain,” he said. “So I was like, ‘You know what, man? I’m going to try hand at formal acting.’”

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To NYC and a lucky break Alonso began his education at New York University and the prestigious Actor’s Studio program in 1991. Although the program doesn’t allow students to audition for professional jobs until after graduation, Alonso earned his big break when a couple of talent scouts came to observe one of his classes. “Right time, right place,” Alonso remembered. “I am doing monologues by myself, and there is this casting director named Judy Henson from ABC network that saw me and said, ‘I need to talk to him.’” Alonso’s acting career began with some commercials through agencies in New

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Ellicott City native Johnny Alonso, 51, stars in the Netflix series “Outer Banks.” This month his new movie, “Harvey,” which he both directed and stars in, will have a premiere at the Senator Theatre in Baltimore.

York and Baltimore. Things started to take off for him in 1992 with a made-for-TV movie on “CBS Schoolbreak Special.” Then, four years later, Alonso really gained recognition as Johnny Kowolski on the PBS series “Numbers Alive!”

Following this, Alonso starred as the host of “NASA 360” and had roles on popular television shows like “Rules of Engagement,” “Dawson’s Creek,” “Gotham” and what he

ARTS & STYLE

Howie Awards celebrate longtime residents who have helped the arts thrive in Howard County page 26

See JOHNNY ALONSO, page 27

Mark Your Calendar: The Beacon’s FREE Virtual 50+Expo opens November 1 with valuable information, classes, speakers and entertainment. See ad on page 32.

Interested in exhibiting or sponsoring? Call Gordon at (410) 248-9101.

FITNESS & HEALTH k The benefits of crying k COVID and dementia risk

LAW & MONEY k Stock market: stay or leave? k Hiring a home health aide

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A pat on the back Each year, we enter a selection of our writ- Options pull-out section won first place in the Special Section category. ers’ original stories in the anThese sections appear in the nual journalism competition Baltimore and Greater Washheld by the North American ington Beacons every JanuMature Publishers Association ary, April, July and October. (NAMPA), the association for Our special “Celebration of newspapers and magazines dethe Arts” insert, which apsigned for readers 50 and over. peared in all editions, won secThat competition attracts ond place for Special Section. It hundreds of submissions contained images of winning every year and is judged by artwork and short articles internationally respected facabout the artists from our 2020 ulty at the University of MisFROM THE amateur art competition for souri School of Journalism. PUBLISHER This year, our four publica- By Stuart P. Rosenthal older adults. Our Managing Editor Martions, each of which comgaret Foster and Assistant petes in a different category based on circulation, received a total of 21 Editor Catherine Brown wrote the seven articles in that section, which involved interNAMPA awards. Among those we won were perhaps the viewing 21 artists in seven categories. Foster also won a first-place award for most-valued prizes: Best of Show and General Excellence. The other awards were for her Topical Issue story, “A caring home for those with disabilities,” which ran on the specific stories, sections or columns. In some cases, the winning stories ap- cover of our Housing Section this past April. Robert Friedman, a long-time freelance peared in all of our editions. For example, two of our regular travel writers, Victor writer for the Beacon, penned a story, “A Block and Don Mankin, won first and spy reveals her life in disguise,” that ran on second-place awards, respectively, for the cover of our Howard County, Baltimore and Greater Washington editions. It won a their travel features. Block was praised for his “delightful ob- first prize award in the Profile category for servations” and for “showing a nifty touch Friedman’s “captivating inside story” about for detail.” The judges liked how Mankin a CIA spy and master of disguise. Friedman won another Profile award for compiles “a bucket list of adventures suithis cover story about the new director of ed to” our readers. Our quarterly Housing & Homecare the Reginald F. Lewis Museum, Terri Lee

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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 President/Associate Publisher – Judith K. Rosenthal Executive Vice President – Gordon Hasenei Managing Editor – Margaret Foster Art Director – Kyle Gregory Director of Operations – Roger King Advertising Representatives – Steve Levin, Alan Spiegel Assistant Editor – Catherine Brown Content Manager – Ashley Griffin

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

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Freeman. Titled “Conversations on race and culture,” the story “brings perspective to the heated subject of race,” according to the judges. Glenda C. Booth, who also writes for many of our editions, won first place in Feature Writing for her story, “Moonshine and more for 2nd act.” That ran on the covers of our Baltimore and Greater Washington editions, and was called “an enlightening look at a bright new enterprise.” Booth also won a second place Topical Issue award for “Speak out to make a difference,” about older adults who became lobbyists and advocates for Alzheimer’s research and other causes after retiring from their careers. Former Beacon Assistant Editor, Ivey Noojin, was honored for her cover story, “Help from healthcare students,” which appeared in the Baltimore Beacon. Judges were impressed by “this heartwarming story told with grace and touching details.” Three of our regular columnists were also honored. First place in Column Review went to Dinah Rokach, who writes as “The Bibliophile,” our book review column that appears primarily in the Greater Washington Beacon, but occasionally in other issues as well. She was noted for “taking care to read thoroughly and summarize succinctly.” Second place in Senior Issues went to Bob Levey, whose column mostly appears

in our Greater Washington edition. Judges liked his “sly sense of humor” and that “he always offers something to think about.” A How-to Feature award went to Lela Martin, with the Virginia Cooperative Extension, whose gardening column runs in Fifty Plus, our Greater Richmond publication. Speaking of Fifty Plus, two other authors won awards for their stories in that publication. Diane York was honored for “Doulas support end-of-life transitions.” The judges noted that “the sensitive way the writer handles the difficult nature of the story is impressive.” Eileen Abbott’s cover story, “When caregivers face abuse, there’s hope,” was praised for “leading victims to solutions” and including “a much-appreciated list of resources.” As regular readers know, I have been gradually returning to my childhood hobby of classical piano. One way I dipped my toe in was to assign myself an arts feature about a local doctor who composed his first symphony in his spare time. That story, which appeared in both our Howard County and Greater Washington Beacons, won a feature writing award. It also inspired me to return to composing myself. And several of my “From the Publisher” columns — on Alzheimer’s research, the COVID vaccine and seizing an opportunity to See FROM THE PUBLISHER, page 25

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 email info@thebeaconnewspapers.com. Please include your name, address and telephone number for verification. Dear Editor: I’ve been receiving the Beacon at the retirement home that I live in for a few years, and I really need the print to be larger now. Other residents here need the same thing. Can you publish a larger print issue soon? Marsha Harris Via email Ed. Note: We are glad to have you and your neighbors as readers. We can’t enlarge the font of our print newspaper, but if you read the Beacon on our website, thebeaconnewspapers.com, you can zoom in and enlarge text as much as you like. There are also apps that will read text from a website or smartphone aloud, though they usually charge a monthly fee. If you don’t have access to a computer, consider using a magnifier or drugstore eyeglasses. Perhaps your community could invest in a larger magnification device or one of the computer reader apps? Dear Editor: I live in a senior community where some people have no problem voicing hate-filled opinions. A neighbor spouted hatred towards Trump to me. I said, “I like him.” She backed away like I had the plague. I hope Mr. Carr [the political cartoonist

profiled on the cover of the October Howard County Beacon] is aware that the Republican party was founded on anti-slavery, once called “free-soilers” meaning they were part of creating states without slavery (this was before Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation). I hope Mr. Carr is also aware that Abraham Lincoln was the first elected Republican president who, unfortunately, chose a Democrat, Andrew Johnson, as his vice president. I have a family member whose father (my husband) was in WWII, and his grandfather was in WWI, both risking their lives to preserve our freedom. My son seems to be intelligent, but admits his choice for a political party is one that takes control. His children are part of those wanting everything “free” from government. How that even can be accomplished with unvaccinated immigrants, drugs, human trafficking, guns, coming across the border is a major question, without an answer from the current administration. I pray every day for my country. Bumper sticker on my car reads: “Freedom is Not Free.” Barbara G. Green Elkridge, Md.

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SUPER STRETCH Just a few minutes of daily yoga can improve strength, balance and immunity

Health Fitness &

DON’T FALL THIS FALL Tips to prevent falls at home: watch your meds and install grab bars FIGHT MUSCLE LOSS UMD researchers will pay you to exercise for three months COMFORT FOOD Try this recipe for a healthy casserole with peppers, tomatoes and turkey

Crying offers health benefits for everyone By Leo Newhouse It’s safe to say that 2020 gave us more than enough to cry about. Yet even prior to last year, it seems that we were crying fairly often. Researchers note that, on average, American women cry 3.5 times each month, while American men cry about 1.9 times each month. These figures may take some of us by surprise, especially as our society has often looked at crying — particularly by men — as a sign of weakness and lack of emotional stamina.

Health benefits of crying As a phenomenon that is unique to humans, crying is a natural response to a

range of emotions, from deep sadness and grief to extreme happiness and joy. But is crying good for your health? The answer appears to be yes. Medical benefits of crying have been known as far back as the Classical era. Thinkers and physicians of ancient Greece and Rome posited that tears work like a purgative, draining off and purifying us. Today’s psychological thought largely concurs, emphasizing the role of crying as a mechanism that allows us to release stress and emotional pain. Crying is an important safety valve, largely because keeping difficult feelings inside — what psychologists call repressive coping — can be bad for our health.

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Studies have linked repressive coping with a less resilient immune system, cardiovascular disease and hypertension, as well as with mental health conditions, including stress, anxiety, and depression. Crying has also been shown to increase attachment behavior, encouraging closeness, empathy and support from friends and family.

Not all tears are created equal Scientists divide the liquid product of crying into three distinct categories: reflex tears, continuous tears, and emotional tears. The first two categories perform the important function of removing debris such as smoke and dust from our eyes, and lu-

bricating our eyes to help protect them from infection. Their content is 98% water. The third categor y, emotional tears (which flush stress hormones and other toxins out of our system), potentially offers the most health benefits. Researchers have established that crying releases oxytocin and endogenous opioids, also known as endorphins. These feel-good chemicals help ease both physical and emotional pain. Popular culture, for its part, has always known the value of a good cry as a way to feel better — and maybe even to experience physical pleasure. The millions of people See CRYING page 5

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Ways to turn up flavor without using salt

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There are times when crying can be a sign of a problem, especially if it happens very frequently and/or for no apparent reason, or when crying starts to affect daily activities or becomes uncontrollable. Conversely, people suffering from certain kinds of clinical depression may actually not be able to cry, even when they feel like it. In any of these situations, it would be best to see a medical professional who can help diagnose the problem and suggest appropriate treatment. As challenging as it may be, the best way to handle difficult feelings, including sadness and grief, is to embrace them. It is important

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to allow yourself to cry if you feel like it. Make sure to take the time and find a safe space to cry if you need to. Many people associate crying during grief with depression, when it can actually be a sign of healing. Teaching boys and young men that it’s OK to cry may reduce negative health behaviors and help them have fuller lives. That said, if crying becomes overwhelming or uncontrollable, see a doctor or mental health professional for evaluation and treatment. Leo Newhouse, LICSW, is a contributor to Harvard Health Publications. © 2021 Harvard University. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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The nation has registered hundreds of thousands of deaths from COVID-19. The collective grief over these losses can only be described as staggering. It is no surprise, then, that at times like these our feelings are closer to the surface, and that many people who were not previously prone to cr ying find themselves tearing up more easily. In fact, as one medical professional put it, showing emotion in public may have become a new normal.

When are tears a problem?

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“I know a man ain’t supposed to cry,” goes the lyric of a popular song, “but these tears I can’t hold inside.” These words succinctly summarize many a man’s dilemma about emotional expression. From early on, boys are told that real men do not cry. When these boys grow up, they may stuff their feelings deep inside and withdraw emotionally from their loved ones, or self-medicate with alcohol or drugs, or even become suicidal. Many men therefore need to learn how to reconnect with their emotions. Back in the 1990s, the poet Robert Bly led men’s

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seminars at which he taught the participants how to get in touch with their longburied feelings of sadness and loss, and to weep openly if they needed to. Ideally, however, such education should begin early on, at home or at school, with adults making it safe for boys to talk about difficult feelings.

flavor they hardly need seasoning. Choose the best you can find: in-season fruits and vegetables, flavorful cuts of animal proteins, the freshest fish and seafood, and high-quality healthy fats (extra-virgin olive oil, avocado oil).

Use good ingredients

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who watched classic tearjerker films such as West Side Story or Titanic (among others) will likely attest to that fact.

Use cooking methods to heighten flavor. Roasting vegetables in the oven or on the grill brings out their natural sweetness and deepens the flavor of animal and plant proteins, like fish and tofu. Similarly, a

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quick sear or sauté on the stovetop enhances flavor with minimal cook time. Cook with a light coating of olive oil and finish with a splash of vinegar or citrus and a garnish of fresh herbs, dried fruits, chopped nuts or citrus zest.

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By Lori Zanteson We know we should be eating less salt. Most of us consume far more than recommended. We know to skip the salt shaker at the table and to check food labels. While it is essential to the body — the sodium in salt works with potassium to regulate fluids — too much can raise blood pressure, putting the heart at risk. Read on

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Why to add yoga into a workout routine By Lauren Hubbard, D.P.T. Dear Mayo Clinic: I have always been fairly flexible, so I have never felt compelled to include yoga in my fitness routine. Typically, I just walk and maybe do some weights for strength training. I was talking to a friend who said her physical therapist recommended yoga as part of a well-rounded workout routine. What is the benefit of yoga? Should I add it to my routine or stick with what I’m doing? A: Yoga is a wonderful form of exercise that provides benefits that walking or strength training don’t provide. In Eastern cultures, yoga is not seen as exercise but rather “a moving meditation.”

No salt From page 5

Season it up Dig into spices to replace salt. Dried spices, like cumin and cinnamon, bring bold flavor to dishes, while dried and fresh herbs, like basil and thyme, season with subtlety. Choose fresh or powdered onion, garlic and chili peppers, mustards, vinegars and citrus (lemon, lime, orange or grapefruit) juice, peel or zest. Experiment with mixed herb and spice blends to jazz up your meals. Sample these seasonings from around the world for flavor so you won’t miss the salt: —Herbs de Provence (France): savory, rosemary, marjoram, thyme —Curry powder (India): turmeric, co-

In the Western world, many people know of power yoga or vinyasa yoga, which are classified as exercise. Regardless of the type of yoga, when practiced mindfully, there are many advantages for the body, mind and soul. Yoga can provide three primary benefits that a typical gym routine may not provide.

Improved nervous system function Since yoga is based on breathing, parts of the nervous system are affected when exhales are lengthened and breath is controlled. This is cued throughout particular yoga sequences. Specifically, yoga can help lower the fight-or-flight response and improve the body’s “rest-and-digest” response. riander, cumin, fenugreek, pepper —Chinese five spice (China): star anise, Szechuan peppers, cloves, fennel, cinnamon —Jerk spice (Caribbean): red and black pepper, allspice, cinnamon, thyme —Italian blend (Italy): basil, oregano, rosemary, parsley, thyme, red chili flakes, garlic powder Give these tips a try — see how quickly your palate prefers less salt (and how these suggestions broaden your meal planning repertoire). Reprinted with permission from Environmental Nutrition, a monthly publication of Belvoir Media Group, LLC, 1-800829-5384, EnvironmentalNutrition.com. © 2021 Belvoir Media Group. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Practicing slow, controlled breathing stimulates the body’s vagus nerve, which takes information about the current state of relaxation and relays it to the rest of the body, including the brain. One area affected when the vagal nerve is stimulated is the parasympathic nervous system, which controls the body’s rest and digestion functions. The mindful breathing practiced in yoga increases the activity of

the parasympathic nervous system. As a result, yoga lowers the heart rate, improves digestion and quality of sleep, and strengthens the immune system. Another benefit is an improved stress level.

Improved joint range of motion The difference between flexibility and See YOGA WORKOUT, page 8

Reduce your fall risk By James J. Carney, M.D. As we age, we begin to learn — sometimes firsthand –- how devastating a fall can be. It isn’t quite as easy as it once was to hop back up and continue on our way. Each year, millions of older adults experience falls and fall-related injuries. In Maryland, 23% of adults over age 65 reported a fall in the past 12 months, according to new local data from the 2021 America’s Health Rankings Senior Report. Among older adults, one out of five falls causes a serious injury, including 90% of hip fractures and 51% of traumatic brain injuries. Contributing factors for falls include poor balance, poor vision, certain medications, alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, osteoporosis, physical disabilities and general frailty. Being aware of the risk factors and following the tips below can reduce your chances of serious injury and help you maintain and improve the quality of your health so you can remain independent.

disease management programs.

Stay active Do exercises that can strengthen your legs and improve balance. Many Medicare plans offer benefits to help seniors stay active, such as UnitedHealthcare’s fitness program RenewActive®, which includes access to balance classes.

Invest in quality footwear Make sure your shoes fit, have good traction, and are comfortable. See a doctor if you are experiencing foot pain.

Talk to your doctor A healthcare provider can help assess and reduce your fall risk. Medicare-eligible individuals can access care through an annual wellness visit, which is free to anyone on Medicare. (UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage members can take advantage of the HouseCalls program — which brings an annual health assessment to the convenience and privacy of your home — at no additional cost.)

Understand medicine side effects Any time you get a new prescription, ask your pharmacist or doctor about side effects like dizziness or drowsiness that can affect balance.

Review your health benefits As we approach the Medicare annual enrollment period beginning October 15, older adults should consider whether their current plan includes programs that can help reduce the chances of a fall. Many Medicare Advantage plans, for example, include benefits that Original Medicare does not cover that can help reduce the risk of falls, such as vision and hearing benefits, gym memberships, and

Check your home Most falls happen at home. Remove clutter, fix steps that are uneven, and make sure there is adequate lighting in every room. Install grab bars and handrails in the bathroom and on both sides of stairways. Use a cane, walker, crutches or other support if needed. Falls can present a more significant health threat than many may realize, but by understanding risk factors and how to reduce them, older adults can empower themselves to live healthier lives. Dr. James J. Carney is UnitedHealthcare’s Chief Medical Officer for Medicare and Retirement in the Mid-Atlantic.

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Introducing a $0 premium Medicare Advantage PPO plan in Maryland When you choose a Medicare Advantage plan from UnitedHealthcare®, you get more for your Medicare dollar. Whether you’re at home or traveling, you can take advantage of a new PPO plan that gives you the ﬂexibility to visit any doctor who accepts Medicare, without a referral. You also pay network costs when you choose doctors participating in the UnitedHealthcare Medicare National Network.† AARP® Medicare Advantage plans from UnitedHealthcare may also include: $0 monthly premium $1,000 for comprehensive dental services

$0 copays for all primary care visits, $0 copays for virtual visits and $0 copays on all lab tests

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It’s time to take advantage UnitedHealthcare is here for you. Call UnitedHealthcare or go online today to learn more or enroll.

1-877-591-1797, TTY 711 8 a.m.–8 p.m., 7 days a week. Or visit UHCMedicareSolutions.com. †Network size varies by market and exclusions may apply. Based on UnitedHealthcare Product Ancillary Network 360 Research, May 2021. Out-of-network/non-contracted providers are under no obligation to treat Plan members, except in emergency situations. Please call our customer service number or see your Evidence of Coverage for more information, including the cost-sharing that applies to out-of-network services. $0 cost-share for in-network dental care, specified services only. If your plan offers out-of-network dental coverage and you see an out-of-network dentist you might be billed more, even for services listed as $0 copay. You will pay a maximum of $35 for a 1-month supply of Part D select insulin drugs during the deductible, initial coverage and coverage gap or “donut hole” stages of your benefit. You will pay 5% of the cost of your insulin in the catastrophic stage. This cost-sharing only applies to members who do not qualify for a program that helps pay for your drugs (“Extra Help”). Benefits, features and/or devices vary by plan/area. Limitations and exclusions apply. This information is not a complete description of benefits. Call 1-877-591-1797, TTY 711 for more information. Plans are insured through UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company or one of its affiliated companies, a Medicare Advantage organization with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in the plan depends on the plan’s contract renewal with Medicare. UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company pays royalty fees to AARP for the use of its intellectual property. These fees are used for the general purposes of AARP. AARP and its affiliates are not insurers. You do not need to be an AARP member to enroll. AARP encourages you to consider your needs when selecting products and does not make specific product recommendations for individuals. AARP does not employ or endorse agents, producers or brokers. © 2021 United HealthCare Services, Inc. All Rights Reserved. 28131873 Y0066_210809_033115_M

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Practical uses for common baking soda By Suzy Cohen Everyone has some baking soda in the house, and if not, you should get some. Aside from baking with it, I use it in my garbage disposal and to brighten my laundry. Sodium bicarbonate is known more commonly as “baking soda” since it helps make dough rise by producing carbon dioxide. Today, I’ll share the most common medicinal uses for baking soda, as well as a few household uses that make it the cheapest, most effective remedy in town!

Consuming excessive baking soda is toxic because it’s so high in sodium. So, if you’re taking it internally for heartburn, do not use it chronically, and do not take too much. See a doctor for proper treatment. Now, here are the best medicinal uses I can think of for baking soda:

Improve bad breath Adding some baking soda to your mouthwash can instantly freshen breath and improve oral hygiene. I think this is a

great addition to anyone’s nightly routine. Studies show that it can help your body fight bacteria better by temporarily increasing pH in your saliva. You can also make your own mouthwash using baking soda, water and essential oils. I have a recipe for this posted at my website if you’d like to try it. Rinse with plain water after you do the baking soda rinse.

Soothe itching Get relief for itching and minor bug bites or bee stings using baking soda paste that you make at home. Make a paste that is thick enough to apply to your skin. The amount of baking soda you use doesn’t matter; just pour it into a little dish, and add enough water slowly until it is thick like paste. Then apply it to your itchy spots. You can kick it up a notch medicinally by adding several drops of lavender, frankincense and/or tea tree essential oil. If your itchy skin is widespread, as you might experience with a drug allergy reaction, then take a lukewarm bath and add about 2 cups of baking soda to a large bathtub of water, and soak for 15 minutes.

Freshen your feet You can make a little foot bath using 1 cup of baking soda to a small foot bath of water. I would add a cup of witch hazel to the mix as well as 10 drops of tea tree oil. Soak your feet for five minutes, then rinse and dry off. This might help with toenail fungus too.

Treat heartburn or reflux Acid reflux is a very common problem that stems from various different root causes, so

Yoga workout From page 6 active range of motion is important. Think of flexibility as how much a muscle can be passively stretched. In contrast, range of motion is how much muscles can be used to control a joint’s movement. Yoga incorporates all four motions of the spine: flexion, extension, rotation and sidebending. Therefore, yoga can prevent stiffness and disuse that also can occur with age. Being able to control the available range of motion in joints is crucial to good posture and decreasing the risk of injury.

Improved balance, lower fall risk By working hard at different exercises, balance can improve. Balance is a complex system, requiring three parts: the sensation of the foot on the ground, or proprioception; vision; and the inner ear, or vestibular system. These three parts tell the brain where the head is in space. These three components work together to control both static and dynamic balance. Yoga trains the proprioception and visual systems to improve balance. Depending on the pose, cues are sent to focus, for instance, on the foot rooted to the ground.

before I tell you how to use baking soda, I want to make sure that you understand you should not be ignoring this symptom. It may be due to overeating or from using drugs that are irritating to the esophagus like NSAIDs. But it’s also associated with a hiatal hernia, parathyroid adenomas, esophageal cancer and more. So, get a doctor’s work-up before using this remedy, and do not use it if you are on a sodium-restricted diet. This baking soda trick works well for simple acute types of acid reflux, such as the type triggered by eating salsa, onions or coffee. Dissolve ½ to 1 teaspoon of baking soda in a cold glass of water. Sip it slowly until the heartburn subsides. Do not use this chronically because it may lead to metabolic alkalosis and electrolyte disturbances that impact your heart and muscles.

Make laundry cleaner Baking soda is an inexpensive method that many people know about to whiten and clean your laundry. It’s simple to do. Just add ¼- to ½-cup of baking soda to the regular amount of laundry detergent that you use. The baking soda will dissolve completely in the water and help remove stains and dirt from your clothes. You’ll notice it softens the water too. 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 author of The 24-Hour Pharmacist and Real Solutions from Head to Toe. Visit her website at suzycohen.com. By concentrating in an attempt to maintain contact, the big toe, little toe and heel form a tripod of sorts, which in turn helps focus the proprioception portion of balance. In yoga, you may hear the term “drishti,” which refers to obtaining a focused gaze or focus in the mind. The concept comes into play as people aim to hold a pose with their eyes closed. Certain poses become more challenging with eyes closed, which improves the visual part of balance. Also, moving back and forth between poses without fully touching a limb to the ground can increase the ability to dynamically move and not lose balance. Over time, this will reduce the risk of falling while walking on uneven ground or turning quickly. While it may be difficult to add one more thing to your busy life, incorporating yoga into your workout routine can benefit your stress level, mobility and balance in ways that may not be achieved from a regular gym routine. Mayo Clinic Q & A is an educational resource and doesn’t replace regular medical care. Email a question to MayoClinicQ&A@mayo.edu. For more information, visit mayoclinic.org. © 2021 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. All rights reserved. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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Health Studies

INFORMATION ON AREA CLINICAL TRIALS

Research study will pay you to exercise By Margaret Foster As we age, we lose as much as 5% of muscle mass every decade. If we don’t exercise, we become even weaker. “If you’re unable to be as active and do as much physical activity, then you’re setting yourself up for a worsening of the problem,” said Steven Prior, associate professor in the University of Maryland School of Public Health’s Department of Kinesiology. But it’s never too late to get in shape. This fall, after a long delay due to the pandemic, Prior and a team of researchers are looking for older adults to participate in a study of the aging-related loss of muscle, known as sarcopenia. The re-launched study seeks to determine the best exercises to increase muscle mass and strength in older adults. Previous studies showed that strength training (such as lifting weights, doing pushups, etc.) can reverse sarcopenia. But what about aerobic exercises like walking or swimming? Can that build muscle mass, too?

Strength and aerobics included Prior and his team are “looking at people with relatively low muscle mass and finding out how to best improve the

strength and function of their muscles,” he explained. “We’re trying to figure out better exercise programs to improve strength and function in older people.” The study is open to people ages 65 to 88. (Diabetics and smokers aren’t eligible for the study.) Three times a week for six months, participants will visit either the University’s College Park or Baltimore campus for exercise classes. They will be randomly sorted into two groups: one will do three months of resistance training (such as weightlifting) first, followed by three months of aerobic exercise; and the other group will start with aerobic exercise and then do resistance training. Everyone will work with an exercise physiologist three times a week in the university’s exercise facility. The exercises are safe and can be adjusted to anyone’s ability, according to Prior, the study’s primary investigator. “Everything is monitored by exercise physiologists who are well trained in prescribing exercises for older individuals. All exercise interventions are tailored specifically to the person’s ability,” Prior said.

Builds on previous study Prior has studied sarcopenia for years. His 2016 study found that muscles with dense, oxygen-rich capillaries receive oxygen more quickly and efficiently during exercise. To track people’s progress in this year’s clinical trial, researchers will measure changes in participants’ strength over six months. They will also take samples of

muscle tissue to track the size of their muscle fibers and any changes in the number of capillaries. Parking is free at both locations, and participants will be paid a total of $300 to exercise three times a week for six months. For more information or to volunteer, call (410) 605-7179 and reference the “SARCOPENIA” study.

Exercise Research at the University of Maryland

Supervised Exercise Research at the University of Maryland, Baltimore and University of Maryland College Park. Men & women 65-88 years old needed to participate in exercise research study at the University of Maryland / Baltimore VA Medical Center. Participation involves tests to measure your fitness and function. You will receive medical and fitness evaluations. Parking and compensation for your time are provided. Please call 410-605-7179 Mention code SARCOPENIA

Have conﬁdence

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Possible COVID tie to later Alzheimer’s By Lauran Neergaard Researchers are trying to unravel why some COVID-19 survivors suffer “brain fog” and other problems that can last for months, and new findings suggest some worrisome overlaps with Alzheimer’s disease. One study of older adults in Argentina found a surprising number of dementialike changes in memory and thinking for at least six months after a bout with the coronavirus — regardless of the severity of their infection. Other researchers found Alzheimer’srelated proteins in the blood of New Yorkers whose COVID-19 triggered brain symptoms early on. The preliminary findings were reported at a recent Alzheimer’s Association meeting. Experts stress far more research is needed — and getting underway — to tell if COVID-19 might raise the risk of

Alzheimer’s or other brain problems later in life, or if people eventually recover. The possibilities “are real and troubling,” but it’s too soon to know “whether this is really going to result in long-term cognitive change,” cautioned Dr. Richard Hodes, director of the National Institute on Aging. His agency wasn’t involved in the research but has begun its own large study to try to better understand the link between COVID-19 and Alzheimer’s. “If you did have COVID, this does not necessarily mean that you will be impacted,” agreed the Alzheimer’s Association’s Heather Snyder. But protecting the brain from COVID-19 offers yet another reason to get vaccinated, she added.

Memory problems may persist Some hints about the risk come from a study that tracked about 300 people in the

Jujuy province of Argentina, keeping a health registry of anyone tested for the virus, whether they had symptoms or not. Researchers combed the registry for people 60 and older who had no record of brain disorders prior to the pandemic and asked if they’d undergo cognitive testing. “[The results were] quite scary, if I have to put it bluntly,” said Dr. Gabriel de Erausquin of the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, who is leading the study. Between three and six months after their coronavirus infection, about 20% of the older adults had problems with shortterm memory. And 34% had more profound impairment, including trouble finding words and difficulty with longer-term memory, what de Erausquin called a “dementia-like syndrome.” The severity of their COVID-19 didn’t

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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 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

HOWARD COUNTY

BALTIMORE COUNTY Cove Point Apartments I: 410-288-2344 Cove Point Apartments II: 410-288-1660 Evergreen Senior Apartments: 410-780-4888 The Greens at English Consul: 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 • 55 & Better Park View at Fullerton: 410-663-0665 Park View at Miramar Landing: 410-391-8375 Park View at Randallstown: 410-655-5673

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

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predict the problems — instead those most at risk had a persistent loss of smell. That loss often is temporary with COVID-19. But de Erausquin noted the brain’s olfactory region is directly linked to areas critical for memory, and a loss of smell is sometimes an early sign of degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s. The study will track participants for three years to see how they fare. While the early findings focused on older adults, de Erausquin said other evidence suggests that lingering problems in younger COVID-19 survivors tend to center more around the ability to concentrate.

Blood proteins a concern Researchers at New York UniversityLangone Health took a different approach, testing the blood of more than 300 older adults hospitalized for COVID-19. About half experienced new neurologic symptoms such as confusion as part of their coronavirus infection. The study found a jump in their blood levels of proteins linked to inflammation of the nervous system, brain cell injury and Alzheimer’s disease. That shows the brain is responding to injury, but it will take time to tell if the abnormal levels really signal Alzheimer’slike changes or are a temporary blip, said the National Institute on Aging’s Dr. Eliezer Masliah, who wasn’t involved in the research. He noted that one protein that goes awry during Alzheimer’s also has a normal role in the brain, to defend against infection. Previous research has suggested that certain viruses may play a role in later Alzheimer’s, and “the pandemic certainly gave us an unwelcome opportunity” to try to finally better understand why, Snyder said. —AP

BEACON BITS

Nov. 9

HEALTHY THANKSGIVING

Join Howard County’s SNAP Ed’s educator, Razan Sahuri, for a 30-minute lesson about healthy dishes for Thanksgiving. The free virtual event takes place Tues., Nov. 9 from 2 to 2:30 p.m. For more information and to register, visit bit.ly/HealthyThanksgivingFood.

Nov. 9+

LIVING WELL WITH CHRONIC DISEASE

Howard County General Hospital hosts a six-week virtual series on living with chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, cancer, depression, arthritis, lung disease and more. The workshop takes place on Tuesdays from 6 to 8:30 p.m. from Nov. 9 to Dec. 14. Register at bit.ly/startlivingwell.

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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 2 1

Colorful peppers with turkey casserole By Family Features When life gets busy, you need a recipe that is quick to make, easy to bake and mouthwatering to eat. Try this recipe for Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole next time you are in a pinch. It’s made with hearty ground turkey breast, delicious bell peppers, crushed tomatoes and brown rice, then topped with gooey sharp cheddar cheese. It’s a whole meal in a dish. This short ingredient list makes it easy to assemble. First, brown the turkey and onions, then combine all the ingredients in a baking dish. It’s simple to prepare before

baking to perfection. It’s just right for little ones who are hungr y and ready for a wholesome and appetizing home-cooked meal. Adults enjoy the natural flavors and fresh ingredients that keep all ages happy and content.

“Stuffed” Bell Pepper Casserole Servings: 4 20 ounces ground turkey breast 1 yellow onion, chopped ¼ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon pepper 3 large bell peppers, chopped (1 each,

red, yellow and green) 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes ½ cup long-grain brown rice 1 teaspoon oregano ½ teaspoon garlic powder 8 ounces shredded sharp cheddar cheese Directions: Heat oven to 350° F. In large skillet over medium heat, add turkey, onions, salt and pepper. Break up turkey and cook until browned. Add turkey mixture to 9-by-13-inch bak-

ing dish. Add chopped bell peppers, crushed tomatoes, brown rice, oregano and garlic powder. Mix until combined. Cover with aluminum foil. Bake 80-90 minutes until rice is tender. Remove foil, add shredded cheese and bake 5 minutes until cheese is melted. Find more family dinner recipes at Culinary.net. If you made this recipe at home, use #MyCulinaryConnection on your favorite social network to share your work.

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BEACON BITS

Ongoing

JOB SEARCH ASSISTANCE

Howard County’s Workforce Development offers a variety of services, including resume assistance, job listings and workshops. For more information, visit bit.ly/HCWorkforce or contact (410) 290-2600.

Don’t Wait!

There is still time to take advantage of our 30th Anniversary savings Immediate availability for direct entry into our memory support neighborhood with direct access to our full array of community amenities and on-site 5-star comprehensive nursing center. (With Residency Agreement option.) RN/LPN on-site 24/7 and on-site Social Worker 30 years’ experience in Downtown Columbia Predictable “All-inclusive” pricing. No additional level of care or medication management fees Person centered, engaging activities daily Enhanced infection control measures to ensure health and safety Respite Stays available Limited time offer. Call for more details. Call now to schedule your virtual personal appointment! 410-992-1241

vantagepointresidences.org 5400 Vantage Point Road, Columbia, MD 21044

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

November Programs for 55 Years + For all programs and activities, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/rap.

Crafts, Dance & Photography

Drop-In Programs

• Info: Ruth Coleman, 410-313-7311 or rucoleman@howardcountymd.gov (unless otherwise noted).

• Info: Ruth Coleman, 410-313-7311 or rucoleman@howardcountymd.gov.

Basic and Advanced Watercolor Skills & Practice with Zina Poliszuk

Drop-In Social Bridge

Kiwanis-Wallas Hall 9am-noon W Free

This seven-week program features demos of beginning watercolor techniques such as color theory, graded washes, blended washes and glazes. Gary J Arthur Comm Ctr Classes: 7 RP0301.501 Nov 1 1:15-3:15pm M $129

Duplicate Bridge

Stained Glass Panel Workshop

Kiwanis-Wallas Hall 1-3:30pm W Free

Kiwanis-Wallas Hall Noon-3:30pm Kiwanis-Wallas Hall 9am-12:45pm

W F

Free Free

Marathon Bridge

In this two-class workshop, create a more advanced piece that requirescurved cuts, as well as different sized and shaped irregular pieces N Laurel Comm Ctr Classes: 2 RP3557.501 Nov 6 11am-3pm Sa & Su $155

Trivia Time

Exceptional Sides for the Holidays with Chef Alba

• Info/Fitness Waiver: Scott Ripley, 410-313-7281 or sripley@howardcountymd.gov (unless otherwise noted).

Join Chef Alba as we create off-the-beaten-path side dishes. Menu: Gratin di Asparagi alle Mandorle, Polpettone di Patate e Verdura, Purè di Patate Dolci e Provolone Piccante,and Black Rice Salad with dried fruit and nuts. Info: Danielle Bassett, dbassett@howardcountymd.gov. Online Classes: 1 RP0508.501 Nov 12 6:30-8:30pm F $29

History How To: From Sheep to Shawl

Learn about historic fiber arts from sheep to shawl! Participate in each step in the process of turning wool into cloth using historic techniques of processing, spinning, dyeing and weaving. Learn how wool was turned into clothing! Info: Kelly Palich, kpalich@howardcountymd.gov. Living Farm Heritage Museum Classes: 1 RP9980.503 Nov 13 10am-3pm Sa $30

Digital Photography 102

Come pick up where Digital Photography101 left off! Learn the elements and techniques that produce compelling photos. Belmont Manor Classes: 4 RP3533.501 Nov 16 9:30-11:30am Tu $65

Bain 50+ Ctr 9:30-10:30am Last Friday of each month Free

Health, Outdoors & Relaxation LaBlast Take your mind, body and soul through ballroom dances from different countries and cultures. Roger Carter Comm Ctr Classes: 6 RP3561.502 Nov 3 1:30-2:30pm W $65

African Drumming: Community Drum Circle with PACA Using a variety of drums and other percussion instruments, these musical sessions are improvised and co-created by participants. Info: Karen Bradley Ehler, 410-313-4635 or kehler@howardcountymd.gov. N Laurel Comm Ctr Classes: 8 RP3435.502 Nov 5 6-7:15pm F $65

Meditation & Book Club with Nancy Holt Learn meditation techniques and discover applications for mindfulness. Book: When Things Fall Apart: Heart Advice for Difficult Times by Pema Chodron. Online Classes: 8 RP3583.502 Nov 8 7-8pm M $78

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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 2 1

Lifelong Learning • Info: Ruth Coleman, 410-313-7311 or rucoleman@howardcountymd.gov.

Speaker Series: Three Frames for Shaping Your Next Purpose

Workshop focuses on the three frames for discerning where you are currently and where you are meant to be in the next phase of your purposeful life, all based on the metaphor of location. Online Classes: 1 RP3506.503 Nov 9 6:30-8pm Tu $25

Zoom Etiquete

This class teaches you how to successfully navigate Zoom and other online platforms. N Laurel Comm Ctr Classes: 1 RP3545.502 Nov 17 1-2pm W $25 • 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 • Pick-up locations: Bain 50+ Ctr and Long Gate Park & Ride • Trip venues may have different COVID-19 requirements (ex: mask mandates, proof of vaccination and/or negative COVID test). Visit www.howardcountymd.gov/recreation-parks/programs for the most up-to-date info.

Museum of the Bible

RP4564.501 All ages Nov 5 9:30am-4:30pm F $69

Virginia Museum of Fine Arts RP4565.501

18 yrs +

Nov 18

8am-6pm Th

$69

The Kennedy Center: George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker

RP4566.501 All ages Nov 28 11am-6pm Su $159

A Beautiful Holiday at Longwood Gardens RP4567.501

Adult Astronomy & Nature Events Call 410-313-0400 for info or to register.

All ages

Dec 3

8am-5pm

$109

The Kennedy Center: Ain’t Too Proud – The Life and Times of The Temptations RP4568.501

All ages

Dec 19

10:30am-5pm

$159

www.howardcountymd.gov/recreation-parks/programs

Fall into Phenology with Nature Journaling! Learn nature journaling techniques and how tracking the cyclic phenomena of nature can benefit your mental health and provide calm. Robinson Nature Ctr RP9969.502 Nov 13

2-3:30pm

$10

Meet You There! Adventures & Activities Happy Holiday at Sweet Simplici-Tea

Scan the QR code for more 55 years + programs! tinyurl.com/55plusprograms

Located in downtown historic Sykesville, Sweet Simplici-Tea prides itself on being a place where guests come and relax in a lovely Victorian setting, while enjoying delectable foods and tea steeped to perfection. Join us for this very special tailored holiday menu of teas, appetizers, sweet treats, sandwiches, soups and other delicious confections that includes a delightful take-home favor! RP4514.501 All ages Dec 11 11am-2:30pm Sa $59

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

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A Publication of the Department of Community Resources and Services

Volume 11, No. 11 • November 2021

Supporting the Multiple Role of Caregivers

A Message from Howard County Executive

oward County’s Caregiver Support Program understands the demands of caregiving. Caregivers are often thrust into their new roles without warning and may need to develop a whole new set of skills to care for an aging parent or relative. This can include managing the symptoms of a chronic condition, communicating with health care professionals, and handling personal care regimens — all in addition to meeting the needs of their own families and careers. How effectively family caregivers balance their own needs with those of their new roles varies widely, but every journey has its challenges. The 2021 theme of National Family Caregivers Month: “Caregiver And” encourages family caregivers to celebrate all the identities and passions that enrich and make their lives complete. This is an essential component of self-care that can ultimately prevent caregiver burnout and depression (caregiveraction.org/caregiverand).

Online and In-Person Programs That Can Help Trualta® The Office on Aging and Independence's Caregiver Support Program offers free access to Trualta,® an e-learning portal designed to help family caregivers reduce stress, find local resources, and learn skills to provide care for their loved ones. Once enrolled, Howard County caregivers can log on at any time to learn about personal care, safety in the home, caregiver wellness, dementia care, and much more. Trualta® calls it “just in time learning” because it is there when you need it. The portal is easy to use for all ages, completely private, and accessible 24/7. No app is required; the audio and video resources, tip-sheets, music therapy, and professional-level training may be viewed on any browser, computer, laptop, phone or tablet. Trualta® users choose the options that work best for them and can start implementing practical caregiver tips and techniques right away. Print material is available to supplement the digital platform, and the comprehensive learning library can help you prepare and plan for changing needs. To arrange for a free demo and access to try Trualta,® contact Kathy Wehr, Caregiver Support Program Manager, at 410-313-5955 (voice/relay), or kwehr@howardcountymd.gov.

Dementia Live® Dementia Live® is a high-impact, 30-minute immersion where participants experience firsthand what it’s like to live with cognitive impairment and sensory change. Family caregivers and other participants can gain a deeper understanding and develop greater empathy for those in their care with dementia. The program also provides tools and techniques to improve communications, care processes and tips to make dementiafriendly changes to your home. Free sessions will resume in January. For more information, contact Emily Leclercq, Resource Specialist, at Maryland Access Point of Howard County at 410-313-5917 (voice/relay) or eleclercq@howardcountymd.gov.

Calvin Ball

s the seasons change, it’s vital that we continue to follow COVID-19 public health guidance and vaccine recommendations. Residents who are immunocompromised are eligible to receive a third dose of the Moderna or Pfizer vaccine. A third dose is necessary for those who are immunocompromised to complete the vaccine regimen. As you may know, some residents who were vaccinated with Pfizer at least six months ago are now eligible for booster shots. If you are 65 and older, live in a nursing home or long-term care facility, have underlying health conditions, or have an increased risk due to your occupation, you should get a booster shot to help improve your immunity. If you have questions, please talk to your healthcare provider about your specific situation. We continue to make progress on our Age-Friendly Initiatives by submitting Howard County’s Action Plan to AARP for approval. Once approved, we can begin to implement the recommendations developed by our Age-Friendly workgroups. Thank you to everyone who served on one or more workgroups; we appreciate your commitment to this initiative! In less than two years, despite the challenges of working remotely, you helped us create a roadmap for an age-friendly community that will benefit residents of all ages and abilities. As winter approaches, we are nearing the 20-month mark in dealing with the pandemic. Despite all the challenges we have faced, we have accomplished a great deal, especially in keeping one another safe. Thank you to all our residents who continue to work together to make our community stronger.

CAREGIVER SUPPORT PROGRAM WEBINAR

Explaining the Process: How OAI Supports Our Caregivers, Our Heroes Tuesday, November 30 • 10 a.m. to noon via Webex Learn more about caregiver support options offered by the Ofﬁce on Aging and Independence’s Home and Community-Based Services. Representatives of the following programs will discuss their areas of expertise, and explain about local resources and services for caregivers: • Caregiver Support Program • Maryland Access Point • Community Living Program • Senior Care • Medicaid Supports Planning Unit • Assisted Living and Nursing Home Placements Register at https://oaicaregiverwebinar.eventbrite.com For more information, contact Kathy Wehr at 410-313-5955 (VOICE/RELAY)

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 2 1

The 50+ Connection

Say you saw it in the Beacon

THINGS TO DO AND DATES TO REMEMBER

MEDICARE Open Enrollment Open Enrollment for Medicare’s 2022 health and prescription drug plans runs October 15 to December 7. At that time, Medicare beneﬁciaries can add, drop or switch plans. If you are currently enrolled in a stand-alone Medicare Part D prescription drug plan or a Part C Medicare Advantage plan, the Annual Notice of Changes mailed to you by your plan has updates to: • Changes to the Formulary (dropping medications/changing restrictions) • Changes to Costs (premiums, deductibles and drug costs) • Pharmacy Network Changes • Plan Termination Changes Howard County’s State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) can help you review your Medicare Prescription Drug coverage options. Call 410-313-7392 (VOICE/RELAY) to schedule a remote counseling appointment by phone with a certiﬁed SHIP counselor.

KNIT/CROCHET for VETERANS! The Howard County Ofﬁce of Veterans and Military Families is collecting handmade SCARVES AND HATS for military members. Drop off your items by Friday, November 5, at the Department of Community Resources and Services, one of our 50+ Centers, or one of three additional locations. Visit us at www.howardcountymd.gov/veterans for details. For more information, contact Lisa B. Terry at 410-313-0821 (VOICE/RELAY) or veterans@howardcountymd.gov.

7th Annual Howard County Parade Caregiver Support Group Third Monday of Every Month via Webex October 18, November 15, December 20 • 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. NOTE: This is a virtual group discussion; pre-registration is required Share your experiences in a supportive atmosphere with other caregivers in this SeniorsTogether peer group. Led by trained facilitators, the group meets virtually to: • • • •

Sunday, November 7 • 9:30 a.m. This annual event honors all branches of the US Military, the National Guard, First Responders, and their families. The parade will begin at the newly opened Merriweather District, travel along Merriweather Drive and turn north onto Little Patuxent Parkway, and will end at Millie Bailey Park, the future site of the Howard County Veterans Monument at Lake Kittamaqundi. This year’s parade will feature marching bands, military units and hometown heroes.

2021

Learn about Hands-On Resources and Practical Tips Gain Emotional Support from Other Caregivers Create Connections for Social Networking Find Leisure and Self-Care Activities (journaling, exercise, etc.)

To register or for more information, contact Karen Hull at 410-313-7466 (VOICE/RELAY) or khull@howardcountymd.gov. For the full schedule of SeniorsTogether peer support groups, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/seniorstogether.

November 1, 2021 thru January 31, 2022 Join us online for the Beacon Virtual 50+ EXPO, featuring keynote speakers, classes, entertainment, informative videos and exhibitors. Visit online at www.beacon50expo.com starting November 1 and check out these Ofﬁce on Aging and Independence videos created just for you! • • • • • • • •

Virtual Grocery Store Visit with Carmen Roberts, Registered Dietitian Exercise Demo with Michelle Rosenfeld Entertainment with Steve Friedman: First a Play, Then a Musical Cooking with Jill Rose: Single-Serve Appetizers Partnering with Cultural Community Leaders: Laying the Groundwork Out and About in Howard County — A Virtual Tour Discover Your 50+ Center Partner Spotlight: Howard County Police Dept. Outreach Division

The Ofﬁce on Aging and Independence is grateful to our Bronze-level sponsors for their generous support of this event: Maryland Vascular Specialists and Lorien Health Services

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

VILLAGE LIFE the following is excerpted from

Young-at-Heart Residents Create New Jet Ski Memories hether riding on a Jet Ski for the ﬁrst time or welcoming a return to the water, Brooke Grove Retirement Village (BGRV) residents participating in the 25th Annual Jet Ski Picnic embraced the opportunity with enthusiasm. The much-anticipated event was hosted by Williamsport Retirement Village (WRV) on Dam 4 on the Potomac River in Sharpsburg, Maryland, on August 25.

While jet skiing is not usually a routine activity for those in their age bracket, the intrepid seniors from BGRV’s independent living (IL) community and Brooke Grove Rehabilitation and Nursing Center (BGRNC) were eager to take on the challenge. A multitude of BGRV employee team members were on hand to ensure that residents who needed assistance were safely lifted onto one of two jet skis and into the care of experienced drivers. An exhilarating spin down the river brought a sense of freedom and joy to participants.

BGRV Plant Operations Director Jeff Richmond savors homemade ice cream from Antietam Dairy

“Am I really doing this?!” repeatedly exclaimed one excited BGRNC resident as she skimmed across the water and delighted in the passing scenery. While ﬂoating logs and branches sometimes required slower speeds on past occasions, the lack of storm debris

IL resident Glo Hong prepares to cruise down the Potomac with WRV Regional Administrator and driver Tim Berry.

this year allowed drivers to open the throttle for those who felt the need for speed. “That was the best ride I’ve ever had on the river!” noted IL resident Gar Guyton. CM Pig Out Catering served up a delicious lunch menu of hamburgers, veggie burgers, hot dogs and pulled BBQ chicken along with macaroni and fruit salads for residents to enjoy in a shaded tent decorated with balloons and fresh ﬂowers. Homemade treats from the Antietam Dairy truck tantalized taste buds with “the creamiest ice cream I’ve ever had!” according to IL resident Al Smith. “It was a beautiful, sunny day, and we are so grateful to Regional Administrator Tim Berry and his team for putting on this event for our campus,” concluded BGRV Executive Director Patty Gomez.

Message from the Village From the desk of Dennis Hunter, president, Brooke Grove Foundation ur annual Jet Ski Picnic, launched by Williamsport Retirement Village 25 years ago, is all about providing enriching experiences. Some residents are excited about trying something new. Some are apprehensive but want to participate anyway. Some have spent their lives enjoying the water but believe they will never have the opportunity to do so again. No matter what their motivation for joining

INDEPENDENT LIVING

ASSISTED LIVING

in, the joy on their faces as they return to shore is truly powerful. This outing is good for the soul, all the way around. It does so much for the residents who relish the freedom of cruising down the river as well as for those who prefer to savor a picnic lunch while watching the action. It’s also extremely rewarding for the employee team members who take on the tremendous effort of creating a unique experience that will result in a memory that will last. We’ll all be talking about the Jet Ski Picnic for a long time, and we’re already looking forward to next year!

REHABILITATION

LONG-TERM CARE

MEMORY SUPPORT

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Johns Hopkins Partnerss with BGV to Co onduct Research Studies rooke Grove Rehabilitation and Nursing Center residents, family members and staff were recently invited to participate in two research projects being conducted by colleagues and partners at Johns Hopkins Medicine. Both studies address unique health issues facing older adults and involve a short interview or questionnaire, which will be conducted by phone or online.

The ﬁrst pproject j addresses antibiotic use. “Antibiotics are overused, especially in treating older adults, and this results in increased antibiotic resistance. We want to understand how families and caregivers perceive the effectiveness and side effects of antibiotics, which in turn will lead to better prescribing practices,” wrote Brooke Grove Retirement Village (BGR RV V) Executive Director Patty Gomez in a letter encouraging participation in the voluntary and conﬁdential studies. The second project focuses on understanding how residents and caregivers have fared through the challenges of the past year’s COVID epidemic. Both studies have been approved by the Johns Hopkins University (JHU) Institutional Review Board, which is the

oversight and ethics committee for all clinicaal research. At the end of the endeavor, the JHU team will proviide BGR RV with feedback and advice on how to improve care for residents.

Barbara Hackett Prom moted to Director of Vo Volunteer Se ervices arbara Hackett was named director of volunteer services for Brooke Grove Retirement Village (BGR RV V) on August 2. She joined Brooke Grove Rehabilitation and Nursing Center (BGRNC) in 2019 as guest services liaison and was honored as a LIFE Illustrator of the Month in 2020. Having previously worked in management positions for retail and business organizations, Ms. Hackett has the strong customer service, supervisory and

For more information about Brooke Grove, call

301- 637-8928 18100 Slade School Road Sandy Spring g, MD 20860

www.bgf.o org INDEPENDENT LIVING

ASSISTED T LIVING

organizational skills essential to her new role. “Through her work at BGRNC, Barbara has demonstrated her commitment to Brooke Grove Foundation’s mission and residents,” noted BGR RV Executive Director Patty Gomez. “She has already identiﬁed new areas that will be well served by volunteers and is excited about working with current volunteers rs and recruiting new team members to meet the needs of the BGR RV ccommunityy. She has a warm and welcoming personalityy, and I know that she will greet each volunteer with gratitude and enthusiasm.” To learn about volunteering at BGR RV V, visit bgf.org/volunteers or contact Ms. Hackett at 301-570-7081 or volunteers@bgf.org.

REHABIL LITA TA AT TION

LONG-TERM CARE

MEMOR RY Y SUPPORT

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Money Law &

Selling your house can fund your dream retirement. See story on page 20.

Should you stay in the stock market? Many readers have written recently ask- and he has been justified in doing so based ing if they should be reducing their alloca- on market performance. tion to the stock market because of the excellent perReasons to be bullish Here are some of the reaformance over the last few sons he continues to be bullyears. ish: I have always recommendHe noted that second-quared re-balancing your portfolio ter profits were on track to inonce a year. I do re-balance crease by a record high myself, sometimes more than [which they did]. He pointed once a year. out that companies reacted to Stock markets rarely go up the pandemic by cutting continuously, so it does pay to THE SAVINGS costs, and profit margins inbe prudent and not become GAME creased as well as sales. too enamored by excellent By Elliot Raphaelson There is a backlog of orders stock market gains. There will always be periods when stock markets currently, which is another very positive indicator of increasing earnings growth. will fall in value. In the long run, stock market prices will Yardeni indicated that Federal Reserve be determined by corporate profitability. policy has helped the stock market and, as On that basis, you can be optimistic, at a result, price earnings (P/E) ratios did least in the short-run. not fall as much as you would expect in a In a recent Barron’s article, Leslie Nor- period of recession. ton interviewed Ed Yardeni, the President Although the P/E ratio is high, in of Yardeni Research, who has an impres- Yardeni’s opinion the high ratio is justified sive background and is well-respected in because of the Fed policy and because the industry. Yardeni has been bullish earnings prospects currently are very about the stock market for some time now, good. He believes that the stock market

will continue to do well in the near-future because of the prospect of higher earnings. Yardeni went on to forecast a 5,000 level for the S&P in 2023. He expects earnings per share in 2023 to be approximately $230/share at year-end. (Most analysts predict that earnings would average $200/share at the end of this year and $219 at the end of 2022.) Although he doesn’t expect earnings growth in the third and fourth quarter to be as good as the second quarter, earnings will be at record levels, and that should be a good omen for market prices. Yardeni is not very concerned about inflation, because he believes that productivity will increase by 4% by the middle of the decade, and will stay there a while. He anticipates that the labor market will remain tight and corporations will have to increase wages, but that the improvement in productivity will outweigh the increase in wages. He predicts that wages will increase faster than prices, and that the result will be higher profit margins. He doesn’t believe that there will be significant economic risks as a result of

COVID-19, because he believes that the Delta variant will lead more people to be vaccinated, and that is a positive factor.

Entrepreneurs create prosperity Yardeni discussed a new book he is writing titled In Praise of Profits. In the book, he points out that the S&P accounts for “only about half of national corporate profits.” A significant portion of profits is derived from S corporations, which aren’t publicly traded and don’t pay corporate taxes. The profits are distributed to shareholders, who pay personal taxes on the dividends and income. In addition, there are other “passthrough businesses,” and if you add all of them, there are 36 million business entities owned by one or a few shareholders that add to overall employment. In summary, he believes that there is a great deal of entrepreneurship in this country that is not appreciated, “particularly by the progressives.” He believes this entrepreneurship has created a great deal of prosperity in the country. See STOCK MARKET, page 20

Volunteer options you may not know of By Janet Bodnar My earlier column on fulfilling ways to spend retirement continues to generate inspirational responses from readers, many of whom have sung the praises of volunteering. You also named service groups that you have found rewarding. I’ll cite a number of them for those of you in search of a cause that strikes a chord. Many of your efforts focus on children. After working for more than 40 years as a registered dietician in hospitals and nursing homes, reader Linda Hall volunteers for Operation Christmas Child, a project of Samaritan’s Purse, which delivers giftfilled shoeboxes to children around the world. “I am using my marketing MBA and my organizational and people skills,” Hall writes. “Sometimes I think that my training and experience were meant all along to be applied in my volunteer work.” Nila Whitfield, who describes herself as a “teacher wannabe” who always wanted to

work with kids, has donated time to MakeA-Wish and A Kid Again, helping families with children facing critical illnesses. Reader Jodie Black requests that I mention her group, National CASA/GAL Association, which has more than 950 local affiliates that train volunteers to work with children in foster care. Reader Marty Jacobson helps people at the other end of the age spectrum: He was an original member of Seniors vs. Crime, a special task force of the Florida attorney general’s office dedicated to prosecuting criminals who defraud elderly Florida residents. Now retired, Jacobson has rejoined the task force, which has 36 offices throughout Florida and more than 200 senior volunteers. “I am very evangelical about working for this group,” writes Jacobson. In addition to being president of a local symphony orchestra, Charles Dye is a mentor with SCORE, a national organization of experienced businesspeople who counsel

small businesses. “I’m 87 and am amazed that I’m still enjoying life,” Dye said.

Team efforts Some couples have made volunteering a joint activity. Diane and Tom Howlett began renting motor homes for vacations with their kids. Now retired, they participate in Care-AVanners, a project of Habitat for Humanity, in which RV travelers can visit sites where construction help is needed. “All that is required to join is an RV and a willingness to help out deserving folks who need a house,” Tom said. (The program was suspended because of COVID but is scheduled to resume.) Carol and Ron Jochimsen have combined volunteering with their church. The Jochimsens made a two-year commitment to travel out-of-state with Laborers for Christ, a project of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod, which replaces or repairs small or outdated church structures.

“It was a fulfilling activity that took away my desire to be at regular work,” Ron said. Like many of you, Steve Jansen didn’t have to travel far afield to find fulfillment in religion. “I lead worship services at a summer chapel, and volunteer in the music ministry at my church when the chapel is finished for the season,” Jansen writes. When you consider volunteering, focus on activities that make use of your talents or pique your interest, and don’t overcommit. Choose something that allows flexibility if you’d like to travel or have regular family commitments (also a prime volunteer activity). And be on the lookout for opportunities. Says Jansen, “Each day I pray that if God wants me to do more than I am doing, He will reveal it to me and make me passionate about it.” © 2021 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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Fund a dream retirement with your home By Harriet Edleson Selling a mortgage-free house can put money in your pocket and give you the opportunity to dream, explore or start a new life in a different area. Consider Suzanne and Paul, who had paid off their mortgage and were willing to take on some risk. First, they sold their suburban New York home and left for Israel, where they rented an apartment for 10 months. “By moving to a less expensive area, it frees up money to travel,” said Suzanne, now in her mid-70s. Next, they spent a month traveling in Africa and Europe, and then rented an apartment in Manhattan for two months. They sold most of their possessions and ultimately paid cash for a furnished condominium in South Florida. The couple had been in business for many years and felt they had enough

Stock market From page 18 Yardeni advises investors to own companies that are either providing improved technology, or using technology heavily to run their business. He recommends investors continue to have technology stocks in their portfolios. For now, he recommends overweighing

money to feel secure. Also, they wanted to live closer to relatives already living in Florida. Family relationships, climate and the cost of living drove their decision. “The rest didn’t matter,” Suzanne said. “Nothing will be perfect. We prioritized.”

Mortgage-free lifestyle Even if you are still carrying a mortgage, if you have equity in your home — say, 60% or more — selling can still be a route to a new retirement lifestyle. If you are mortgage-free, you’ll have more options because any money you clear in the sale goes directly into your pocket after real estate agent fees and other costs. “If you can be retired and not have a mortgage, it can be a lot better,” said Anna Rappaport, chair of the Society of Actuaries Committee on Post-Retirement Needs and Risks.

U.S. stocks. He believes the valuation on small and mid-cap stocks is historically low relative to the larger-cap stocks. In summary, he believes, as I do, that you still need a high percentage of common stocks in your portfolio. Elliot Raphaelson welcomes your questions and comments at raphelliot@gmail.com. © 2021 Elliot Raphaelson. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Biggest asset Approximately a third of those who bought a home between 2020 and 2021 were ages 54 to 72, according to the 2021 Home Buyer and Seller Generational Trends Report. Proceeds from the sale of a primary residence was often the source of the down payment. Remember, for most people, the phase of life called retirement can last 25 or 30 years. There are many different ways to use the equity in your home for retirement. Here are three: —Downsize to less expensive housing in your area and invest any remaining money from the sale of your home. —Downsize to less expensive housing in a less expensive area, and invest the rest of the money from the sale of your original home. —Move to an active-adult community in a less expensive area, and invest the rest of the money from the sale of your home. Downsizing can save you 35% or more on housing costs, Rappaport said. Create a budget to consider different variables and combinations. After you downsize, your cost of living may be lower, but be sure to include these items in your retirement spending plan: • home maintenance and repairs • vehicle maintenance and repairs

• travel and entertainment costs • the potential for rising healthcare costs If you decide to purchase a condominium, townhouse or other property in an active-adult or other type of community, be sure to consider any taxes or charges that typically will increase each year. In addition, check if there is a reserve fund for long-term maintenance and if it is funded or have your lawyer check. Ask a financial person at the property rather than the marketing director if there are any assessments of residents pending.

Research, visit or rent first Wherever you consider moving, it’s not the same as visiting or vacationing there. Research online, speak to people who live in that area, and be realistic about how a great climate in the winter can be unbearable in the heat and humidity of summer. No location will be perfect. If you can afford to travel to the new location at least once before you move, you can save time and avoid mistakes in the long run. Whatever your situation, looking at the bigger picture, getting input from a financial expert and a real estate agent, and considering your preferences will help give you a sense of the option that is right for you. This article is an excerpt from Harriet Edleson’s book 12 Ways to Retire on Less.

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How to find and hire a home health aide By Kiplinger Washington Editors When Richard Foye was looking for a home health aide to live with his 97-yearold mother, he found the search daunting. One applicant was bipolar and admitted that she didn’t always take her medication. Another was afraid to stay overnight alone with his mom. Finally, Foye found a caring and capable aide. But “it was a struggle,” he said. Care at home can be a lot less expensive than a nursing home or an assisted-living facility, especially for those who need only a few hours of help a day. And staying in familiar surroundings can be much more comfortable for the patient than living in an institution. There are many options for hiring trained aides through private companies. Finding an aid to hire directly, as Foye learned, is not easy. But with perseverance, it’s a manageable task.

$30 an hour for a certified aide who is an agency employee. A registered nurse will likely cost twice as much. A second option is to hire an independent aide through home-health agencies called registries or staffing ser vices. These firms act like an old-fashioned hiring hall. They may check aides for competency or a criminal record, but the level of screening differs by firm. Aides hired through a registry may cost, on average, around $20 an hour. To find a good agency, check with your local area agency on aging (AAA) or a nonprofit information-and-referral service. The federal government’s Home Health Care Compare at medicare.gov/care-compare provides broad quality ratings for Medicare-approved agencies. (But note that Medicare itself will pay for only very limited home care after a hospitalization.)

Types of aides

Questions to ask

To start, think about the level of help your parent or spouse will need. For the most seriously ill, there are registered nurses, who can manage many complex medical conditions, administer medications, and operate sophisticated equipment. At the next level are certified nursing assistants, who have training in first aid and in helping patients bathe, go to the bathroom and transfer from a bed to a wheelchair. Finally, for those who don’t need skilled assistance, there are companions and homemakers, who may have little or no medical training. Once you settle on a level of care, decide how many hours of assistance you’ll need. Does your mom need someone to come in just a few mornings a week to help her cook, clean or perhaps bathe? If mom needs constant care, you can hire aides to work eight- or 12-hour shifts. Hiring a live-in aide would be a lot less costly, since you’ll be providing room and board. But you can’t expect a live-in to be on call 24 hours a day. If your loved one needs to be turned in bed every few hours, you’ll need to use shift workers. Often the biggest area of conflict between aides and clients is confusion over what services will be provided and by whom. For instance, families often expect aides to administer medications. But aides need specialized training and nurse supervision in order to be able to do so.

Once you’ve selected some potential companies, call and ask many questions. How long has the firm been in business? Is the firm insured? How does it handle complaints? Most important, you’ll want to learn all you can about the individual aide they will be sending you. You’ll also want to know what their policy is on replacing an aide that you and your mom do not like. If you have long-term care insurance, read the policy carefully and contact your agent to determine if it will cover all or part of your costs. Some policies will reimburse you only if you hire through an approved agency. Medicare and Medicaid, which pays for long-term home care only if you meet strict income and asset tests, will also require you to hire through an approved firm. You can save money by hiring an aide on your own. You may find one through a newspaper ad, an online service such as Craigslist.org, or a friend. You’ll negotiate your own price, but expect to pay about $15 to $25 an hour. Note that if you go this route, you will have the responsibilities of an employer. You’ll have to pay Social Security taxes, withhold income taxes, check references, and make sure that an immigrant worker has a green card. Also, by self-hiring, you will have to make other arrangements when your aide calls in sick or takes vacation.

Many ways to find an aide You can hire an aide in one of three ways. The simplest but most expensive option is to hire an employee of a home-health agency. The benefits of this approach are that the agency will vet the employee, handle the aide’s withholding taxes and any benefits, and will find a fill-in on days your aide cannot come. The agency may also provide insurance and arrange ongoing training. In the D.C. area, the going rate is $25 to

Evaluating an aide Before choosing an aide, conduct an inhome interview. Most reputable agencies will conduct a formal assessment of your loved one’s needs either by phone or by sending a registered nurse, along with the prospective aide, to the patient’s home. Ask the aide about his or her experience. If your mom has dementia or other special needs, see if the aide has cared for such patients before. Find out if the agency or the

aide has malpractice insurance. After you hire someone, prepare a daily schedule of duties, so that expectations are clear. Have the aide keep a log of what she does each day. Visit frequently, and at irregular times. Check that the house is clean, that the refrigerator is full and that mom is doing well — that she’s up and dressed (if that is possible) every morning. If she is confined to bed, check for bedsores. Many aides are immigrants. Some may

speak English with a heavy accent, and if mom has difficulty hearing, communicating can be a challenge at first. But if the aide seems caring and competent, give it a few weeks. You’ll be surprised at how well they’ll be able to work things out. It is crucial that you communicate with the aide. If an aide is doing a good job, offer your thanks. If there are problems, talk about it. © The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Media Services.

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PHOTO BY JEN FRY

Travel Leisure &

Take a day trip to the historic waterfront of Havre de Grace, Maryland. See story on page 24.

Venice Beach is back and worth the trip and Globe and Mail, lamenting the demise of the iconic Venice Beach scene. For months I stayed off the boardwalk, giving up one of my favorite leisure (un)activities of sitting on a bench, where I would munch on a sausage sandwich and watch the colorful parade of tourists and locals walk by, all dressed (or barely dressed) to the nines in their versions of funky, hip and casual. This past June, though, the city finally started to pay attention to the complaints from residents and cleared up the encampments one by one in a somewhat humane fashion. All campers were offered temporary housing and storage for their tents, bikes and shopping carts. A couple of weeks ago my wife and I decided to take a walk along the boardwalk to check on the progress of the cleanup. We were pleasantly surprised. As usual, the sun was shining, the breeze was light and balmy, and the temperature was a beach-perfect 75. Most of the boardwalk had been cleaned up, many stores were open for business, and the boardwalk was packed with tourists. The bars and restaurants were jammed. Street musicians and tarot card readers were back, taking over spots recently occupied by tents and clapboard shacks. So, come back for a visit. No need to wait until next summer: The Los Angeles

By Don Mankin Frank Lloyd Wright once wrote, “Tip the world over on its side, and everything loose will land in Los Angeles.” I would add: Tip Los Angeles on its side, and everything loose will land in Venice Beach. I’ve lived in Venice Beach for almost 40 years (most recently in a house just two blocks from the ocean and boardwalk), and have witnessed many changes over the years — from funky and rough to hip and pricey. But this past year has been like none other. Because of the pandemic and economic downturn, homeless people took over Venice Beach’s world-famous boardwalk — also known as Ocean Front Walk, the second most popular tourist destination in Southern California — and turned it into a mile-long encampment. Many businesses were closed, and foot traffic dropped off precipitously. What remained felt dark and sinister. Trash was strewn everywhere, there were constant street fights, and crime rates soared. The charred remains of at least one building burned down by an out-of-control fire from a nearby tent loomed over the once bustling, boisterous boardwalk. Numerous articles appeared in the national and international press, including the Wall Street Journal, New York Times, Guardian,

PHOTO BY TRAVIS CONKLIN, L.A. TOURISM

Aerial stunts and amateur skateboarders attract spectators along Venice Beach’s Ocean Front Walk, a bustling boardwalk. Although the city buried the popular waterfront park in sand during the pandemic to discourage crowds, the park reopened last summer.

Venice Beach’s canals, designed by developer Abbot Kinney in 1905, were modeled after those in Venice, Italy. Today, the Venice Canal Historic District is a great place to explore old and new architecture just 10 minutes’ walk from the beach.

summer extends into mid-October, and even in the depths of winter it’s more likely to be sunny, warm and dry than cold, wet and dreary. While you’re here, check out some of the many other attractions in Venice Beach.

Sea and sand The beach itself begins just a few yards west of the boardwalk and extends for more than 100 yards to the water’s edge. Stop for a few minutes at the Venice Beach Skatepark to gawk at the skateboarders “catching air” as they propel themselves off Dali-esque concrete curves and soar into the air, framed by beach, ocean and the distant Santa Monica Mountains. On most days, the beach is empty except for a few sunbathers, surfers or meditators gazing at the sailboats gliding offshore or, at the right time of year, dolphins playing in the breaking waves. Look south and you can often see Santa Catalina Island in the distance; look north and you can get a better view of the backdrop for the soaring skateboarders — a beach curving around a vast bay all the way to Malibu and beyond. When visitors tell me they think Los

Angeles is ugly, this is where I bring them to change their minds.

Venetian (Beach) Canals Venice’s six canals, built by developers at the turn of the 20th century, now comprise one of the ritziest neighborhoods in Los Angeles. Once home to motorcycle gangs and drug dealers, the Venice Canals are now an architectural showcase of the most expensive homes in Los Angeles. Because Venice Beach has no design constraints (other than height limits, setbacks and engineering requirements), you’ll find a mosaic of architectural styles. This, coupled with the money, ego, hubris and imagination of the creative community that lives here — successful screenwriters, directors, producers, musicians, artists and high-end professionals — produces colorful, eclectic structures. The houses, canals and bridges, along with the flocks of ducks and geese that make the canals their home, provide a picturesque and serene contrast to the crowds of vendors, entertainers and tourists on the boardwalk. Wander along the canals and bridges at your leisure. Although they are just one See VENICE BEACH, page 23

Venice Beach From page 22 block from the boardwalk, the canals aren’t easy to find on your own, so consult a map or your smartphone for directions.

Abbott Kinney Boulevard After you have had enough quirky, cutting-edge architecture, head to Abbott Kinney Blvd., or AKB, which is, according to GQ magazine, “the Coolest Block in America” (the cool part is actually closer to a mile from end to end). AKB is home to the hippest galleries, restaurants, bars, cafes and stores in Los Angeles. A constant stream of attractive young men and women tweet on their smartphones as they stroll on the sidewalk, so be prepared to dodge one slender, well-coiffed body after another as you make your way from store to store. Also be prepared to spend a lot of money. You can easily spend most of the day on AKB, especially if you like to shop.

Inland walk streets Try to spend an hour strolling up and down the “walk streets,” marveling at the architecture and looking for celebrities. The walk streets are essentially sidewalks lined on both sides by tall trees, bamboo, overgrown ivy and bushes, whimsical gardens and lawns, and houses as architecturally diverse as those on the canals.

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Entering the walk streets is like passing through a wormhole into another universe: magical, quiet and soothing, especially compared to the boardwalk and AKB. The inland walk streets are even more hidden than the Venice canals. To find them, consult a map or your smart phone for directions, looking up “Crescent,” “Nowita,” “Marco” or “Amoroso Place.”

Rooftop sunsets If you have time and haven’t spent all of your money on AKB, go to the rooftop lounge of the Hotel Erwin in the heart of Venice, appropriately named “High.” Here, you can have a pricey cocktail and observe the mating rituals of 20- and 30somethings. In the ultimate triumph of hormones over aesthetic appreciation, they seem more interested in each other than the view. I have been all over the world, but this is still one of my favorite views, 80 feet above the Bohemian bustle of the Venice Boardwalk at the height of its insanity in the late afternoon on a clear, warm day. There may be better views in more exotic locales. But I doubt there is one with as rich a stew of people, architecture, scenery and opportunities for spending money as the one in Venice Beach.

If you go It’s best to fly into LAX, which is about

20 minutes south of Venice Beach. Roundtrip, nonstop flights from the Baltimore area on American Airlines or Southwest start at around $210. The small but charming Hotel Erwin is a four-star hotel and bar in the heart of Venice Beach; its rooms start at $240. Rates are comparable at the brand-new waterfront Venice V Hotel, a restored 1915 building where every room has an ocean view. Or choose a chain hotel from the Courtyard Marriott to the Ritz-Carlton, in nearby Marina Del Rey or Santa Monica. Venice is chock full of great restaurants,

ranging from top-of-the-line, Michelin-starworthy trattorias to inexpensive window counter takeaways. Among my favorites are: Felix Trattoria on AKB for handmade pasta made on site (good luck getting a reservation though); Hama Sushi, one of the oldest sushi restaurants in Los Angeles outside of Little Tokyo; Great White, an Aussie-style café specializing in inexpensive California cuisine; and The Win-Dow, on the boardwalk, featuring a double patty smash-cheeseburger for less than $7. For more information, visit venicechamber.net/visitors/guide.

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Havre de Grace: a charming historic town By Ashley Stimpson, Bay Journal News Service Before it was a capital city contender (it lost by one vote to what would become Washington, D.C. at the First United States Congress), Havre de Grace, Maryland, was called Harmer’s Town. But when a visiting Marquis de Lafayette mentioned that the town reminded him of a charming French seaport called Le Havre-de-Grace, residents honored the Revolutionary War hero by incorporating under that name in 1785. (No need to channel your high school French when in town. Locals pronounce it HAV-erdee-grace.) While the quiet charm Lafayette admired is still on display, Havre de Grace also feels very much like the busy crossroads that garnered the Founding Fathers’ attention. During my visit on a hot day in May, cars poured down Market Street, many with kayaks and stand-up paddleboards strapped to their roofs. Pleasure boats roared by on the wide Susquehanna River, which hugs the east side of town as it flows into the Chesapeake Bay. Trains rumbled over bridges. Joggers pushed strollers along the waterfront promenade, and weekend revelers spilled from seafood shacks and antique

shops onto crowded sidewalks.

Self-guided city tour While there are many ways to see the sights, Havre de Grace is a pedestrian’s paradise. To get from one end of town to the other only requires a trek of about 1.5 miles, a pleasant walk punctuated by museums, murals and gorgeous vistas. To make it simple, the city has continued to improve its self-guided walking tour along the Lafayette Trail, which meanders past just about every attraction Havre de Grace has to offer. Visitors who would like a narrated experience can download the DISTRX app and learn about each of the 57 stops along the route. One of those stops — and a good place to begin digging into the area’s history — is the Havre de Grace Maritime Museum and Environmental Center. One of its permanent exhibits shows what the area looked like before European settlement. The Susquehannock were a confederation of Iroquoian-speaking tribes that occupied scattered villages of longhouses on the banks of the Susquehanna River, from New York to Maryland. Historians estimate that during the 1500s, they numbered between 5,000 and 7,000. Even after Europeans arrived, the

Susquehannock were able to maintain their influence in the area, becoming the only Native group to develop trade relationships with all four colonial settlements — English, Dutch, French and Swedish. In 1608, English explorer John Smith traveled north from the Virginia colony of Jamestown and met with Susquehannock chiefs during one of his famous expeditions on the Bay. From the shore of Havre de Grace, visitors can still see the site of this meeting: Garrett Island, a 198-acre, 100-foot-high land mass rising from the Susquehanna.

A route to freedom Two hundred years later, a journey north was the difference between liberty and bondage for many people fleeing slavery through the network of routes and safe houses known as the Underground Railroad. Last year, the Maritime Museum opened its newest exhibit, Other Voices of Freedom, to “reveal the importance of waterways and their relationship to the quest for freedom,” according to a museum brochure. An intriguing combination of art and ethnography, the exhibit features evocative wire-mesh sculptures by African American author and artist Anyta Thomas, as well as compelling firsthand accounts of escape,

including that of Fredrick Douglass. When describing his ferry crossing of the Susquehanna at Havre de Grace, Douglass compared his pounding heart to that of a “fox or deer, with hungry hounds on his trail.” Other panels illuminate the import of local waterways, where enslaved people on their way to freedom crouched in rowboats or hid inside crates aboard barges.

Historic canal and lockhouse During the same time, Havre de Grace became an important stop on a different kind of thoroughfare. In 1840, the Susquehanna and Tidewater Canal opened to boat traffic, facilitating the shipment of coal from the central portions of Pennsylvania to population centers like Philadelphia and Baltimore. Visitors can learn more about the 45mile canal and the impact it had on Havre de Grace at the impressively maintained Lockhouse Museum. This spare, red brick house provided a living space to the lock tender as well as an office for the toll collector. When I visited, a docent named Tom explained that during the canal’s busiest years, Havre de Grace became a “truck See HAVRE DE GRACE, page 25

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Travel insurance is costly but necessary By Ed Perkins If you’re thinking about an international trip this fall or next spring, adding travel insurance is not optional — it’s necessary. Before anyone ever heard of COVID-19, the question, “Do I need travel insurance?” called for a complicated answer. COVID has added another dimension of complications — new risks and new requirements. A quick refresher course in travel insurance basics is useful: • Most travel insurance is “named peril” insurance: If a contingency is not specifically included in the contract, it isn’t covered. • Most travel insurance is limited to “unforeseen” contingencies. You can’t buy fire insurance when your house is already on fire, and you can’t buy travel medical insurance if you’re too sick to travel. Many insurance companies view current COVID problems, in general, as foreseeable and therefore not covered. • Many travel insurance coverages are secondary, which means the travel insurance covers only what you can’t first recover as refunds or payments from other insurance sources. Travel insurance is most useful against big-dollar risks. Many bundled policies

Havre de Grace From page 24 stop on water,” where men from boats either caught up on sleep at local inns or cavorted in taverns and casinos. The museum features compelling exhibits and artifacts, including a to-scale model of the canal lock (water and all) and canal scrip — money that could be used on the journey. Outside, visitors can peer down into the preserved canal and take in an unbeatable view of the half-mile-wide mouth of the river as it meets the Bay. The area, known

From the publisher From page 2 help others — were honored in the Editorial, Senior Issues and Personal Essay categories. In short, nearly every Beacon staff writer and freelancer was honored in this national competition, and we couldn’t be prouder of them. 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. Your opinions, suggestions and letters to the editor are always welcome, whether you contact us by mail, phone, email or online. I want to conclude by expressing my thanks to, and admiration for, all our writers (and editors) mentioned above as well as the other members of our staff, who

Traditional trip-interruption insurance covers costs of early return if you get sick or suffer an accident while at your destination. And traditional medical insurance covers the associated medical costs, which typically includes getting COVID.

The best way to cover yourself is (1) determine exactly what coverage you need, then (2) call a travel insurance agency and negotiate a policy that specifically covers those exact requirements. Over the years I’ve recommended Insure My Trip (insuremyrip.com), Quotewright

(quotewright.com), and Squaremouth (squaremouth.com), which posts a useful list of special individual-country requirements. But a handful of other travel insurance companies are equally good. Note: The only way to keep personal control of whether to travel is to buy a “cancel for any reason” policy. Obtaining such insurance will be especially hard on older travelers, because most travel insurance pricing is age-rated. Medicare doesn’t cover international travel, and Medicare supplemental insurance often isn’t enough to satisfy requirements. A recent study by AdvisorSmith (advisorsmith.com) found that, for a sample trip, travelers age 60 pay 28% more than travelers age 30 to 50, and the excess increases to 88% at age 70, 200% at age 80, and 360% at age 90. And some policies that are not age-rated cut off entirely at age 70 or 80. At a typical price of 4% to 5% of total trip cost, insurance is often a reasonable buy. With COVID, a more costly policy can be a necessity. And as always, the best way to minimize risk is to minimize up-front payments for travel. © 2021 Ed Perkins.

as the Susquehanna Flats, boasts some of the richest, most diverse underwater vegetation in the entire Bay system. This unique habitat made Havre de Grace a prime base for those chasing wild game and fish. During the last century, the bounty made the city a major player in the seafood industry as well as a premiere destination for anglers and waterfowl hunters. At the Havre de Grace Decoy Museum, exhibits and relics galore tell the story of one of the nation’s most singular hunting traditions: waterfowl decoys. Inside the still, reverent air of the museum, I could al-

most feel the concentration it takes to carve and paint the incredibly lifelike wooden birds, some so detailed they look like taxidermy. Museum board member Jim Carroll, who gave me a tour of the space, calls decoy making “a uniquely American, pure artform.” Visitors would be forgiven for mistaking the Decoy Museum for an art gallery. In between these many attractions, I wandered through the grounds of the Concord Point Lighthouse — Maryland’s second oldest — and the city’s new living shoreline project, a three-acre, formerly industrial lot

that has been restored with native plants and a natural stormwater filtration system. There, I marveled at the water’s latest gift to Havre de Grace — the flocks of boaters, sunbathers and seafood enthusiasts. The city may have missed its chance to become the nation’s capital, but in doing so, Havre de Grace got the chance to become something even better: itself. Ashley Stimpson is a freelance writer based in Maryland. This article was originally published in the June 2021 issue of the Bay Journal and was distributed by the Bay Journal News Service.

cover small-dollar risks such as delay and delayed baggage costs, but those typically don’t amount to more than a typical traveler can absorb. If those coverages are included in a bundled policy, take them, but don’t pay extra for them.

The new risk is getting caught in your destination by a new COVID restriction imposed after you arrive. Although many policies do not cover the cost of accommodations if you’re caught in a destination quarantine, some now do.

Issues before you leave

New government requirements

Traditional trip-cancellation insurance covers your nonrefundable cancellation penalties if you have to abort a trip before you leave home because of the usual causes: sickness, accident and such. Most policies cover your getting COVID as with any other sickness. The main new risk is possible COVID lockdowns or quarantines in your destination. Most policies do not cover cancellation if you’re just uneasy about the situation, nor do they cover any restrictions in effect at the time you buy your policy.

As a direct result of COVID, some countries require that you have, and can document, locally applicable medical and emergency evacuation coverage as a condition of entry, in some cases with minimum coverage up to $100,000. A few of those — notably Aruba, the Bahamas, Jamaica and Sint Maarten — require that you buy their own policies, at a cost of up to $40 per person. In addition to insurance, many countries require pre-arrival COVID tests.

Insurance coverage you need Issues after you arrive

work so diligently to produce multiple editions of the Beacon every month. I’d like to thank them by name: Executive Vice President Gordon Hasenei; Art Director Kyle Gregory; Director of Operations Roger King; Advertising Representatives Lisa Benton-Hawkins, Dan Kelly, Steve Levin, M.K. Phillips and Alan Spiegel; Content Manager Ashley Griffin and last, but certainly not least, my wife, the Beacon’s President 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.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF PRESS FAMILY

Style Arts &

Linda and Philip Press are being honored for their different contributions to the arts. See story below.

Howie Awards honor artists, supporters erary Arts series and serving as a fiction reader for the second iteration of Little Patuxent Review. “When the Review originated back in the late 70s, I couldn’t get published in it,” Burke said. “I was so mediocre, knocking on everybody’s doors and getting very little publication. Now I’m in a different stage of my career.” Burke has also run workshops and residency programs for diverse audiences. She has served on literary advisory panels for the Maryland State Arts Council and testified on behalf of the Howard County Arts Council. “The Howard County Arts Council is wonderful, and I don’t think the general public understands what impact it has for us,” Burke said. “They have given grant funding to Little Patuxent Review, to Jambalaya [a festival Burke had helped plan], and to teaching projects I’ve been involved with along with other artists. If it weren’t for those entities, we wouldn’t be able to do as much work.” Burke spends as much time teaching and helping other writers as she does writing for herself.

PHOTO BY KATIE SIMMONS-BARTH

By Catherine Brown When poet, writer and photographer Linda Joy Burke first arrived in Columbia, she was a 17-year-old college student and fledgling artist. She soon thrived by connecting with other artists and launching a career related to the arts. Burke, now 65, received a Howie Award for Outstanding Artist from the Howard County Arts Council in early October. Howie Awards are presented to local artists and art-focused businesses at a gala each fall. “It was overwhelming and lovely,” Burke said. “I have a lot of gratitude for this community.” Burke was inducted in 2013 to the Howard County Women’s Hall of Fame, and received the Poetry for the People Baltimore Legacy award in 2004. In 2002, she received Towson University’s Distinguished Black Marylander award. Recently, Burke read her work on “The Poet and the Poem,” a radio show sponsored by the Library of Congress and hosted by poet laureate Grace Cavalieri. Burke is involved in many projects, including co-hosting the Wilde Readings Lit-

Linda Joy Burke, recipient of the Howie Award for Outstanding Artist, speaks at the county’s Celebration of the Arts gala last month.

“My personal writing career has grown, my performance career has grown, but also that connection [has grown] with the larger community, which has been important to me since I was a kid,” she said. “It’s not just about me and my work; it’s about how I can make the community better,” she said.

Leaders focused on the arts The arts community in Howard County might not be so strong if not for Liz Bobo

Nov. 5 - Jan. 9, 2022

and Lloyd Knowles, who both played an instrumental role in the development of the 40-year-old Arts Council. In recognition of their work, they were named honorary cochairs of the Arts Council Celebration of the Arts gala this year. Bobo, the first female County Executive in Maryland, made the arts a priority during her tenure. With help from developer Jim Rouse, she ensured that the Jim Rouse See HOWIE AWARDS, page 28

Columbia Pro Cantare

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410-730-8311 TobysDinnerTheatre.com Due to the nature of theatrical bookings, all shows and dates are subject to change.

October 30, 2021 – VIVALDI & FRIENDS December 5, 2021 – HANDEL: MESSIAH December 19, 2021 – A CHRISTMAS NOËL March 6, 2022 – LIGHT & SHADOWS May 14, 2022 – AMERICAN VOICES Visit www.procantare.org for details.

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Johnny Alonso From page 1 said was his favorite show, “One Tree Hill.” As a band manager named “Joey D” on “One Tree Hill,” Alonso thrived in the role because of his background in music. “When I was offered the role of Joey D on ‘One Tree Hill,’ I was only offered two episodes. But I played it so strong — I came in like a stealth bomb — they offered me four more episodes. “I knew the lingo, I knew the body language of a band manager, a talent agent,” Alonso said. “I was very comfortable on the WB network, the CW network, playing Joey D. And that just opened so many doors after it.”

Netflix and a new film premiere Now based in Los Angeles, Alonso has

built a career as an actor and a producer, including his latest work on season two of the hit Netflix show “Outer Banks.” This fall, Alonso is excited about his upcoming film, “Harvey,” which he stars in and directed. Not to be confused with the Jimmy Stewart comedy of the same name from 1950, this “Twilight Zone”-like psychological thriller has a 1980s-vibe and features Alonso as a “psycho surfer.” The pandemic could have stalled “Harvey,” but fortunately the film was one of eight independent union films cleared by the Screen Actors Guild - American Federation of Television and Radio Artists in November 2019. With that permission, Alonso and his crew then edited and produced the work throughout 2020 amid COVID-19 regulations. The film’s sold-out Hollywood premiere took place in mid-October. It will premiere in Baltimore at the Senator Theatre on Novem-

ber 18 before being released on a handful of different platforms beginning in January.

Possible Ellicott City project Alonso has other projects in the works, including one he hopes to film in Ellicott City. The movie, “Heavy Metal Haunting,” is about a band that needs a break from the rockstar lifestyle and decides to decompress in a comfortable location: a house in Ellicott City. Alonso is in contact with the Maryland Film Commission, he said, “and they’re really excited about it. So if everything pulls through, ‘Heavy Metal Haunting’ will be

shot in Old Town [Ellicott City].” Next Alonso will be featured in an upcoming episode of the paranormal series “A Haunting,” in which he played a role in both 2006 and 2014. In the episode called “Nevermore,” after the Edgar Allan Poe poem “The Raven,” Alonso will play a guest lead role. The hour-long episode will air the week of Thanksgiving. For Alonso, it seems there’s always a new project to look forward to. “From ‘Outer Banks,’ to ‘Harvey,’ to ‘A Haunting,’ I’ve been pretty wiped out, been pretty spent,” Alonso said. “But if you ask me, I have one of the coolest jobs ever.”

Columbia Jazz Band Veterans Day Concert: A Musical Tribute to the USO

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Dec. 3

November 7th at 2:30pm

LUNCH LECTURE

The Museum of Howard County History hosts Kevin Leonard of the Laurel History Boys for a discussion of the true story of the murder of Carol Replane, a teacher whose remains were found in Ellicott City in 1963. This event takes place Sat., Dec. 3 from 12 to 1 p.m. It is free for members; the fee for non-members is $5. For more information and to register, visit bit.ly/LunchHistory. STUDENT JAZZ ENSEMBLE The Howard Community College Student Jazz Ensemble will perform on Mon., Dec. 6 from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. at the Monteabaro Recital Hall. Tickets cost $7. Learn more and purchase tickets at bit.ly/HCCJazzEnsemble.

Dec. 6

Slayton House, 10400 Cross Fox Lane, Columbia Selections include tunes from the Count Basie and Duke Ellington Orchestras including Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy, When I Fall In Love & more! Masks, photo ID, and proof of vaccination status or negative COVID test result obtained within 72 hours of the concert are required.

Tickets: $20 (service fee may apply) Call 410-465-8777 or visit www.columbiajazzband.org

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Howie Awards From page 26 Theatre at Wilde Lake High School was designed according to professional standards and could be used for private performing arts groups. A former chairman of the Howard County Council, Knowles wrote the legislation that established a private nonprofit arts agency and enabled the Howard County Arts Council to make decisions about how to distribute funds allocated to the arts. “We wanted to make sure the politics

and politicians were out of the role of deciding who would get the money,” he said. Bobo, 78, and Knowles, 87, who are married, “both really love the arts and are very grateful for how well they’ve thrived here in this local community,” Bobo said. “I truly believe art feeds our souls. I can’t remember any time in my life of 78 years that it’s been more important than it is right now that we have access to good arts, to good music, to good poetry, to good dance, to help us through these incredibly difficult and tragic times,” Bobo said. “The arts enrich and heal us as a community.”

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World-class concerts in Columbia Longtime Howard County residents Philip and Linda Press were delighted to receive the Legacy in the Arts Award this year. Both have played a vital role in the Howard County arts community: Philip, 79, as one of the founders of the Candlelight Concert Society (CCS) and Linda, 78, as a beloved visual artist. “In previous years, this award has gone to people who have been very important to making contributions to the arts here in Howard County, so we feel privileged to be included among these folks,” Philip said. Linda, whose cityscape paintings have been exhibited throughout the county and beyond, credits Howard County for providing invaluable support as an emerging artist. Today, the Arts Council is helping Linda expand on her talents with the classes and workshops they offer, particularly in portraiture, a new genre for her. “It’s nice to visit with other artists and have a place to develop these kinds of skills,” Linda said. Learning portraiture has been a tremendous challenge, Linda said, but her mother always told her to learn something new every day. “She did that, and she lived to be 99,” Linda said. “She’s my role model.” Philip fell in love with the depth and personal nature of chamber music in the early 1970s, when attending Candlelight Concerts organized by several private music teachers in the county. When the teachers could no longer keep the concerts running, community volunteers took over. Candlelight Chamber Music is now in its 48th year. Philip served as treasurer for more than a decade and as president on two occasions. He now serves the organization as director emeritus. “Over the years, we grew the organization to bring world-class musicians to our se-

ries,” he said. Performers have included cellist Yo-Yo Ma, pianist Richard Goode and major string quartets from across the globe. One reason they were able to bring such noteworthy artists, Philip said, is Howard County’s supportive community. “We had some musicians back several times because they love our audiences,” Philip said.

A gift for bringing people together Another community member who helped promote the arts, Phyllis Madachy, received a posthumous award for Outstanding Community Supporter of the Arts. Throughout her decades-long service with the Department of Aging, Howard County Executive Council and the Arts Council, Madachy received many local, statewide and national awards, according to Sharonlee Vogel, immediate past president of Howard County Arts Council. It is because of Madachy that Vogel became involved in the Arts Council. “She knew I was a visual artist, and she knew my facility for running meetings and bringing people together,” Vogel said. Madachy, who died last year, had a broad network of people throughout the community, and she connected people who might benefit from knowing each other. “She was a builder of relationships, a builder of organizations, and a builder of the community,” Vogel said. “She brought synergy to everything she touched.” Because of her remarkable skills, Madachy tried to fully retire several times but would then get asked to help with various projects. When describing Madachy’s ability to connect people in the community, Vogel said she was in some ways an artist herself: “She put pieces together, and the pieces she put together created a beautiful mosaic for everyone else.”

BEACON BITS

Nov. 7

VETERANS’ DAY JAZZ CONCERT The Columbia Jazz Band performs on Sunday, Nov. 7 at 2:30 p.m.,

with photos, news footage and audio/video clips from the USO set to music from the Glen Miller, Duke Ellington and Count Basie Orchestras. Tickets cost $20. For more information and to purchase tickets, call (410) 465-8777 or visit www.columbiajazzband.org.

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To review our complete menu of marketing opportunities, visit cogsmd.org. Prospective members are welcome to attend one meeting as our guest.

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ANSWERS TO CROSSWORD

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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 2 1

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Crossword Puzzle

Daily crosswords can be found on our website: www.TheBeaconNewspapers.com Click on Puzzles Harvest Season 1

25 32

HB1121

34 37

47 50

Scrabble answers on p. 28.

33 36

21 23

By Stephen Sherr

52 58

Across

Down

1. It marks the spot on Greek treasure maps 4. Cousin of a giraffe 9. Fantasy football event 14. Loopy tennis return 15. Farm machine 16. He often goes bar hopping with a priest and a minister 17. “A friend’s ___ is a good mirror” 18. See 20 Across 20. Rekindle the romance, with 18 Across 22. Vaccine delivery tool 23. Tiny amount 25. Travelocity listing 26. Operate a roulette wheel 30. Public spats 32. Chills and fever 34. Single-stranded genetic molecule 35. Start a family feud, with 39 and 36 Across 36. See 35 Across 38. “Never have I ___” 39. See 35 Across 43. Deal maker in Angels in the Infield 44. Endless end 45. Dueling swords 47. They can really get in your hair 48. ___-yo (self-serve dessert option) 49. The best kind is win-win 51. Brokeback Mountain director Lee 52. Giver of a prophecy 55. Getting too big for one’s britches, with 64 Across 61. They picked LA for the 2028 games 62. Start a new tube of toothpaste 63. Top corn-producing state 64. See 55 Across 65. Create weapons at the renaissance fair 66. Sound made by the Joker’s henchmen’s fists 67. It was ___ dream (lame TV plot twist) 68. More like a lord than a serf 69. Ultimatum ender 70. ___ professor (new PhD hire)

1. Symbol at the start of a staff 2. Georgetown athlete 3. “Sounds right to me” 4. Kimono sash 5. Geographic center of the contiguous US 6. Treaty partner 7. Iconically mainstream city of Illinois 8. NBA champion, Kyrie 9. Reposition an area rug 10. Temper tantrums 11. Lawyers’ org. 12. X-Files parent agency 13. Element known to exist in Oz 19. Listlessness 21. Willy Wonka and Edward Scissorhands 24. Middle choice between coffee and me 27. Non-cosmopolitans 28. Native Alaskan 29. Common parts of NFL and NBA 30. Garage organizer 31. Explorer with a helmet-light 33. “A war to ___ all wars” 37. Tangy salami 39. Pretend to be affected 40. Pertinent 41. Romanian currency (and letters in SUPERSLEUTH) 42. Grassland 46. Thumb drive, for example 49. Sharpshooter 50. Contributions to it are listed on IRS Form 5498 51. “A watched pot never boils”, for example 53. Melts into the sofa 54. Dazzling effect 55. Part of the Big Bad Wolf’s threat 56. Little part of an ENORMOUS word 57. It can fit 1,032 king-size beds 58. Taunt 59. Future Kentucky Derby winner 60. Pays off the mortgage 64. Org. that defines minimum width for airplane seats

Answers on page 28.

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 2 1

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

Caregivers KIND, EFFICIENT COMPANION/HOMECARE. Cooking, errands, shopping, personal care, driving, cleaning provided. Expert in kashrut. Available 7:30 am - 7:30 pm. References. Call 410-764-1533. Leave message. ASSISTED LIVING HOME in Columbia Md. has job vacancies for live in caregivers. Call 443-326-6113.

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All classified ads must be submitted and paid for online, via our website, www.thebeaconnewspapers.com/classifieds Deadlines and Payments: To appear in the next issue, your ad text and payment must be entered by the 5th of the preceding month (for Baltimore and Howard County editions); by the 20th (for Washington and Richmond editions). Cost will be based on the number of characters and spaces in your ad: • $25 for 1250 • $35 for 251-500. • $50 for 501-750 (maximum length). The website will calculate this for you. Note: Maryland contractors must provide a valid MHIC number. • Each real estate listing qualifies as one ad. • All ads are subject to publisher's discretion. Payment will be refunded if unacceptable for any reason.

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TV/Cable

APPLYING FOR SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY or Appealing a Denied Claim? Call Bill Gordon & Assoc. Our case managers simplify the process & work hard to help with your case. Call 1-866-970-0779 FREE Consultation. Local Attorneys Nationwide [Mail: 2420 N St NW, Washington DC. Office: Broward Co. FL (TX/NM Bar.)]

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Wanted

Miscellaneous

Financial WE CAN FIX ANYTHING! 3 generations of builders, cabinet makers, remodelers and crafters completing kitchens, baths and additions got us to this point. If it’s broken, disassembled, ugly, out of date, needs replacement or renewal: please call Bob at R. W. Wood Improvements: 410.294.2800. MHIC 92322. If it’s electronics or computes, we suggest you contact your grandchildren.

FRIENDLY FAMILY SEEKS INDIVIDUAL for errands and miscellaneous tasks. $20 – $29/hr. Around 1 – 4 hrs. 2 – 4x a month. Please email us at sprng328@aol.com. Let us know your full availability and your phone number. Thanks a lot.

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WANTED TRAILWAYS OR GREYHOUND toy buses or any literature from any Baltimore bus companies also toy grocery store trucks. Call Wayne 410-807-5246.

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We thank our advertisers who make our publication possible. Please patronize them and let them know you saw their ad in the Beacon. Clinical Studies

Home Remodeling/ Roof/Windows

Biometrics Study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 UM Sarcopenia Study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Peak Custom Remodeling . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

Events

Housing

2021 Beacon Virtual 50+Expo . . . . . . .1, 32

BrightView Columbia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Brooke Grove . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16-17 Charlestown/Erickson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Enterprise Residential . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Park View Apartments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Residences at Vantage Point . . . . . . . . . . .11 Shriner Court . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28

Funeral Services Cremation Society of Maryland . . . . . . . .11 Going Home Cremation & Funeral Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 Harry H. Witzke’s Family Funeral Home, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 MacNabb Funeral Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Sol Levinson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21

Medical/Health

Home Health Care

Medical Eye Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Dr. Jeannine George-Richardson, DPM . . .6 United Healthcare Medicare Advantage . . .7

A-1 Action Nursing Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Options for Senior America . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Retail Columbia’s Village Centers . . . . . . . . . . . .21 Perfect Sleep Chair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23

Perfect Walker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24

Senior/ Government Services AARP Maryland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29 BeaconSilverPages.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 COGS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28 Howard Co. 50+ Connection . . . . . . . .14-15 Maryland Relay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Subscriptions Beacon Newspapers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30

Theater/Entertainment Columbia Jazz Band . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27 Columbia Pro Cantare . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26 Toby’s Dinner Theatre . . . . . . . . . . . . .26, 27

Travel Howard Co. Recreation & Parks . . . . .12-13 Superior Tours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23

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