December 2015 | DC Beacon by The Beacon Newspapers

The I N

F O C U S

FREE

F O R

P E O P L E

OV E R

More than 200,000 readers throughout Greater Washington

VOL.27, NO.12

Not your Uncle Sam’s attic AP PHOTO/CAROLYN KASTER

By Jessica Gresko and Brett Zongker One of the perks of living in the Washington region is our proximity to world-class museums and collections. We may have to share the bounty with more than 20 million tourists each year, but in the winter we can enjoy the National Gallery of Art’s Renoirs, the Hope Diamond at the Smithsonian Natural History Museum, and the Library of Congress’s vast collections in relative seclusion. Another beauty of ready access is that we can easily return when something new arrives. Last month, the Smithsonian’s Renwick Gallery, which focuses on crafts and decorative arts and is located across the street from the White House, reopened to the public after an extensive two-year renovation. And the public will be able to greet the National Zoo’s new panda cub Bei Bei starting next month.

5 0 DECEMBER 2015

I N S I D E …

LEISURE & TRAVEL

Natural and celebrity attractions in Monterey, Calif.; plus, the Biltmore and more in Asheville, N.C., and making calls affordable overseas page 49

Speaking of new arrivals... With millions of artifacts ranging from first ladies’ dresses to the flag that inspired the national anthem, the Smithsonian Institution has been cheekily known for decades as “The Nation’s Attic.’’ Just don’t let the new head of the Smithsonian catch you calling it that. David Skorton, the former president of Cornell University who joined the Smithsonian on July 1, says he’s “not fond of that expression.’’ “I think about an attic as somewhere that you sort of put stuff that you used to be interested in and might be interested in again someday. You don’t know for sure. The Smithsonian, I’ve learned, is much more dynamic than that,’’ said Skorton, a physician who was president of the University of Iowa before taking over at Cornell. Skorton is the Smithsonian’s 13th secretary. He oversees the Smithsonian’s 19 museums and galleries, its zoo, a staff of 6,500, and an annual budget of more than $1 billion. He replaces Wayne Clough, who led the institution for six years. In an interview with the Associated Press, Skorton appeared to have settled in to his office on the second floor of the Smithsonian Castle, the 1855 building on the National Mall that was the Smithsonian’s first. In shelves lining one wall, Skorton — a cardiologist — had a model of a heart. A

ARTS & STYLE

Gloria Steinem speaks of her life ‘on the road’; plus, dark comedy explores family dynamics at Theater J page 54 Dr. David Skorton, the new Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, oversees 19 museums and the National Zoo. A cardiologist and former president of Cornell University, Skorton enjoys getting feedback from visitors and staff about the Smithsonian’s vast holdings.

white hard hat from a recent tour of the National Museum of African American History and Culture, set to open in 2016, sat on a mantle. And in a corner was a music stand where Skorton, who plays jazz flute, says he sometimes plays at the end of a long day. Then there’s the sign on his desk with the letters “PGATUS.’’ That’s short for: “Please go ask the Under Secretary,” one of Skorton’s deputies. He’s joking, but the sign is an acknowledgement he doesn’t have all the answers. One thing Skorton has been working on in his first three months is connecting with and hearing from the Smithsonian’s staff. “I’m so hungry for and dependent on that feedback,’’ he said. At Cornell, he made himself accessible by

giving out his email address, joining Facebook, writing for the student newspaper, and living in a dorm for the first week of school. At the Smithsonian, he’s also been giving his email address out and urging people to write. He says he hopes at some point to join a Smithsonian Sleepover, where kids spend the night in a museum, though the 65-yearold Skorton says he’d need an air mattress. And he said he wants to do other things where he can “taste the experience’’ the Smithsonian is giving visitors. “I could read a 200-page briefing, and it would be very valuable. But nothing’s quite the same as sitting down with an eighth grader and saying, ‘Is this cool? Is it See SMITHSONIAN, page 55

TECHNOLOGY k Chip-enabled credit cards k Helpful links and apps

FITNESS & HEALTH 10 k Your meds can make you depressed k Pros and cons of knee replacement SPOTLIGHT ON AGING k Newsletter for D.C. seniors

LAW & MONEY k Beyond target-date funds k Financial gifts for kids

LIFETIMES 41 k Newsletter of the Charles E. Smith Retirement Communities ADVERTISER DIRECTORY

PLUS CROSSWORD, BEACON BITS, CLASSIFIEDS & MORE

More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

A time for thanks Last month, I devoted my column to rec- heart and soul of our staff. Everyone at the ognizing the writers on our staff, and our Beacon wears multiple hats, and is dedicatfreelancers as well, who won ed to doing the best job he or recognition in two national she can. writing competitions. I’d like to thank them by I am very proud of the highname for their efforts and dequality writing (and editing) voted contributions to the featured each month in the Beacon: Beacon, and of the people who Managing Editor Barbara devote their energies to providRuben and Baltimore Coning our readers with topical, entributing Editor Carol Sorgen tertaining and useful articles. do the bulk of local writing for In addition, as each year the Beacon, penning awardcomes to an end I like to take FROM THE winning cover stories, arts feathe opportunity to thank every PUBLISHER tures, health studies, volunBy Stuart P. Rosenthal member of the Beacon staff for teer profiles and more. Barhis or her hard work and dedibara has worked here for cated contributions. more than 15 years, and Carol for more than In addition to putting out our four news- 10. paper editions each month (Greater BaltiIn addition to her writing, Barbara finds, more, Howard County, Greater Washington manages and edits all our freelance and and Coachella Valley/Palm Springs), our syndicated writers — a huge task — while staff works year-round to produce our two answering more than 100 emails a day and annual 50+Expos and an annual Seniors’ Re- updating our website event calendar. source Guide for Montgomery County, Md. For over a dozen years, Director of OpThese tasks, plus addressing the many erations Gordon Hasenei has been my requests of our readers throughout the right-hand man. He has supervised the year, involve not only the labor, but the growth of the Beacon, including our staff,

Beacon The

I N

F O C U S

F O R

P E O P L E

O V E R

5 0

The Beacon is a monthly newspaper dedicated to inform, serve, and entertain the citizens of the Greater Washington DC area, and is privately owned. Other editions serve Greater Baltimore, Howard County, Md. and Greater Palm Springs, Calif. Readership exceeds 400,000. Subscriptions are available via first-class mail ($36) or third-class mail ($12), prepaid with order. D.C. and Maryland residents: add 6 percent for sales tax. Send subscription order to the office listed below. Publication of advertising contained herein does not necessarily constitute endorsement. Signed columns represent the opinions of the writers, and not necessarily the opinion of the publisher.

our computer system, our printing, distribution and more. He has also well trained his Assistant Director of Operations, Roger King, who has been with us for 10 years and knows how to do just about everything Gordon does. Roger is also our webmaster and email-blaster. It makes us all feel secure knowing these two men are on top of the many technical and computer issues that can make or break a business in today’s world. Director of Sales Alan Spiegel has managed and grown our sales force for the past five years. He masterfully helped us maneuver out of the national recession and reach new heights of success for both our advertisers and readers. I include readers in that, as it’s advertising revenue that keeps the Beacon free and enables our page count to be high enough to hold all the varied stories we want to share with readers in each edition. Printing more than 200,000 copies of the Beacon each month is a major endeavor and cost, and it simply wouldn’t be possible without the work of Alan and his dedicated sales staff. Speaking of whom, we are indeed fortunate to have with us seasoned advertising representatives Doug Hallock (10 years, and our #1 salesperson), Steve Levin (five years), Dan Kelly (almost five years), plus more recently, Jill Joseph (who also wrote an excellent first-person article for our October issue). Each of them provides great service to our advertisers, acting as marketing and design consultants as well as ad reps. This is the perfect time to welcome aboard our two new advertising representatives: Rena Pensky and MK Phillips. We are thrilled you have joined us, and look forward to many years of working together. Where would we be without Art Director Kyle Gregory? For more than 15 years, Kyle has designed our publications, created monthly ads for our advertisers, and produced our marketing materials and collateral items (stationery, business cards, you name it). In recent years, he’s been ably assisted by Gordon and Roger, but Kyle is the not-atall-temperamental artist in charge of it all. I would never leave out Cheryl Watts — a recently retired sales representative

who continues to assist us whenever we need her. We miss her daily presence in the office, but wish her well as she enjoys the well-deserved fruits of a long and varied career (that once included owning and running an ice cream store!). So many tasks about the office — ranging from prompt and courteous answering of our phones, to writing articles, proofing every issue, and managing many important databases — are performed by our Editorial Assistant Rebekah Sewell. It’s hard to imagine how so many of these tasks got done before Rebekah joined us two years ago. We are lucky to have her. I don’t think I’ve often mentioned the independent contractors who deliver the Beacon each month to over 2,500 free distribution sites throughout the Baltimore/Washington corridor, but now is a good time to do so. I want to thank Reid Sabatke and Jose Delgado — who have both done this essential work for us for close to 15 years — for their dedication and service. Last, but certainly not least, I want to thank my wife and Associate Publisher Judy Rosenthal. The Beacon has been a joint project since Judy and I started it 26 years ago. While Judy kept her day job for a few years at the beginning (so we could keep food on the table), she has always been my bedrock support and sounding board, and the Beacon’s success owes a tremendous amount to her wise advice. Add to that her decades of work as our amazingly precise accounts receivable/accounts payable/human resources/payroll and bookkeeping staff person, and you can see what a debt of gratitude I and the rest of the staff owe to her. I could continue to tell you great things about everyone on our staff, but space is running short. Suffice it to say, the Beacon would not exist without the effort and dedication of each person mentioned above, nor without YOU — our loyal readers — picking up your copy each month (and patronizing our advertisers). My deepest appreciation — and best wishes for a beautiful holiday season and new year — goes to all of you.

• Publisher/Editor ....................Stuart P. Rosenthal • Associate Publisher..............Judith K. Rosenthal • Vice President of Operations ....Gordon Hasenei • Director of Sales ................................Alan Spiegel • Managing Editor............................Barbara Ruben • Art Director ........................................Kyle Gregory • Assistant Operations Manager ..........Roger King • Advertising Representatives ........Doug Hallock, ......................Dan Kelly, Rena Pensky, M.K. Phillips

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 to barbara@thebeaconnewspapers.com. Please include your name, address and telephone number for verification.

• Editorial Assistant ........................Rebekah Sewell

The Beacon, P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915 (301) 949-9766 • Email: info@thebeaconnewspapers.com Website: www.theBeaconNewspapers.com Submissions: The Beacon welcomes reader contributions. Deadline for editorial is the 10th of the month preceding the month of publication. Deadline for ads is the 15th of the month preceding the month of publication. See page 63 for classified advertising details. Please mail or email all submissions.

BEACON BITS

Ongoing

MEALS ON WHEELS DRIVERS

Meals on Wheels needs drivers, coordinators, and co-coordinators for routes throughout Fairfax County. For these and other volunteer opportunities, call (703) 324-5406, TTY 711 or visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/olderadults and click on Volunteer Solutions.

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5

Say you saw it in the Beacon

Technology &

Innovations What’s up with chip-enabled credit cards? By Anya Kamenetz I just got an unmarked envelope in the mail from my bank —with a South Dakota return address. Public service announcement: The most unassuming letters are the ones you should definitely open! It contained a brand-new debit card with a microchip. The Smart Card Alliance estimates that around 120 million Americans have already received one of these new cards, which is called an “EMV” card for Europay, MasterCard and Visa. By the end of 2015, there will be about two of these new cards issued for every American. Using these cards is different from what we’ve all gotten used to in credit card readers. Instead of “swiping” them through a

slot, you can either “dip” them or “wave” them. When you “dip,” you place the part of the card with the chip into a card reader for a bit longer than it takes to swipe. When you “wave,” you hold it close to the reader without touching it. The chip in the card actually communicates using a radio frequency identification device or RFID tag, which you may be familiar with from a work pass or other form of identification. Most of the new chip cards still have the old magnetic stripe as well.

Meant to be safer The purpose of these new computer chip cards is to enhance security. When

scammers copy the information from a magnetic stripe card, say with a covert card “skimmer” at an ATM or shady retailer, that info can be used again and again for fraudulent purchases. But each and every time a chip card is used for payment, it generates a unique code for just that one transaction. That code can’t be used again. I want to stipulate that debit card fraud is, in general, a very remote risk. Over the last decade, debit card transactions have become by far the most popular type of noncash payment. There were almost 50 billion such transactions in 2012, according to the Federal Reserve. They also reported that among all card

payments, the rate of fraud was extremely low: just 3.60 unauthorized transactions for every 10,000 in 2012. And when a fraudulent transaction is reported, it’s typically either the merchant or the card issuer that absorbs the cost, not the consumer. (Of course, this leads to higher prices for everyone in terms of things like fees, but it does reduce the fear that you will become personally liable for losses and theft.) The United States is actually one of the last industrialized countries to move to this new chip technology, a process that requires a lot of costly investment. The banking industry is so serious See CHIP-ENABLED CARDS, page 5

Patient Education Seminar

StemCell ARTS

Physicians

ALTERNATIVES TO SURGERY:

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

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

Rodney Dade, MD

FREE Patient Education Seminars CONDITIONS THAT MAY RESPOND WELL TO STEM CELL AND PLATELET PROCEDURES: s Knee Pain & Osteoarthritis s Knee ACL & Meniscal Tears s Hip Pain & Labral Tears s Shoulder Pain & Rotator Cuff Tendinitis s Chronic Back & Neck Pain s Hand-Wrist-Thumb Pain

VIRGINIA 1750 Tysons Blvd., Suite 120 McLean, VA 22102

s Tennis/Golfer’s Elbow s Foot & Ankle Pain s Plantar Fasciitis s Achilles Tendinitis s Sacroiliac Joint Instability (Low Back-Hip)

McLean, VA WEDNESDAY, DEC 2, 2015 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm

2016 Seminar Dates available soon on the website

Convene at 1800 Tysons Blvd. McLean, VA 22102

www.StemCellARTS.com

Mayo F. Friedlis, MD

*Parking $8.00 per car/4 hours

RSVP

MARYLAND 5550 Friendship Blvd., Suite 100 Chevy Chase, MD 20815

888.979.7096 rsvp@StemCellARTS.com

www.StemCellARTS.com

Robert Wagner, MD

Technology & Innovations | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

Beacon Links & Apps By Barbara Ruben

LINKS Stitching together community Stitch is a small technology company working to address social isolation and loneliness among older adults around the world. Users can find friends, romance, travel partners and events by registering with the site.

“We built Stitch because far too many mature adults told us that while they were fulfilled with family, work and finances, there was still something missing in their lives. A partner, a friend, a companion. We built Stitch because everybody needs company, no matter what their age is,” reads the message on the homepage of the site. It’s free to join Stitch, use the message board, and view up to three profiles a day. But to access more, the membership fee is $80 a year. www.stitch.net

Tech for boomers People who have little experience with computers may benefit from using Techboomers.com, a free educational website

D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

that teaches older adults how to use computers and the Internet. Since last January, the website has been uploading easy-to-follow tutorial videos and articles as they become available. Some of the popular tutorials include how to use: Flickr, a website for photo sharing; SoundCloud for music sharing; Facebook, the popular social media site; and the career networking site LinkedIn. Users can also learn how to access videos on YouTube, and use streaming websites like Netflix and Hulu to watch movies, television and videos instantly (with a paid subscription). You can also sign up for periodic email newsletters to keep apprised when the site adds new videos and tutorials. https://techboomers.com

Need a job? Senior Job Bank is a database of jobs advertised by companies committed to hiring older workers as part of their hiring strategy, valuing the years of experience they have gained. The site includes jobs nationwide, which can be searched by ZIP code and type of job. Job seekers can also search positions by companies noted for hiring older workers. Senior Job Bank has been operating since 2000 and adds new jobs daily. www.seniorjobbank.org

APPS Checkmate Don’t have an opponent to play chess with? You’ll always be able to start a game with the Stockfish app, since you’ll play against a computer. Level of difficulty and playing style can be easily adjusted. In case you need a helping hand (if you don’t think of it as cheating!), Stockfish will show you the best move to make next. Stockfish is free, and can be used on any computer, Android smartphone (DroidFish) or iPhone, iPad or iPod.

A work of Art The app called simply Art by Puzzle World Games is for art lovers who want to carry around a museum’s worth of paintings on their phone. Learn about more than 200 artists and thousands of paintings, then quiz yourself with questions on the app. You can set up slideshows and select your favorites for your personal gallery. Art for iPad and iPhone costs 99 cents. See LINKS & APPS, page 5

ENJOY AN ACTIVE LIFESTYLE

www.monovisc.com

ORTHOVISC and MONOVISC are contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to hyaluronate formulations or known hypersensitivity (allergy) to gram positive bacterial proteins. ORTHOVISC and MONOVISC should not be injected in patients with infections or skin diseases in the area of the injection site or joint. MONOVISC should not be administered to patients with known bleeding disorders. ORTHOVISC® and MONOVISC® are manufactured by and are registered trademarks of Anika Therapeutics, Inc., Bedford, MA 01730. © DePuy Synthes Mitek Sports Medicine, a division of DOI 2015. All rights reserved.

Address_______________________________________________________________ City______________________________________State______Zip________________ Phone (day)__________________________(evening)_________________________ E-mail_________________________________________________________________

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

★

03/15

Name________________________________________________________________

WB12/15

High Molecular Weight Hyaluronan is indicated in the treatment of pain in osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee in patients who have failed to respond adequately to conservative nonpharmacologic therapy and to simple analgesics, e.g., acetaminophen. In clinical studies, the most commonly reported adverse events for ORTHOVISC were arthralgia, back pain, and headache. Other side effects included local injection site adverse events. In clinical studies, the most commonly reported adverse events for MONOIVISC were arthralgia, joint swelling and injection site pain.

DSUS/MTK/0215/429a

✃

I N F O R M A T I O N ★

www.orthovisc.com

I N F O R M A T I O N

This event is sponsored by:

❏ Diabetes Studies (See ad on page 25) ❏ Reducing Inflamation Study (See article on page 25)

I N F O R M A T I O N

Seats are limited, RSVP today!

F R E E

Olney Pain Center

Health Study Volunteers

FREE INFORMATION ★ FREE INFORMATION ★ FREE INFORMATION ★

Dr. Jonathan Levin, MD

❏ Arbor Terrace of Herndon (See ad on page 16) ❏ Ashby Ponds (See ads on pages 24 & 60) ❏ Chesterbrook Residences (See ad on page 25) ❏ Culpepper Garden (See ad on page 50) ❏ Falcon’s Landing (See ad on page 13) ❏ Greenspring (See ads on pages 24 & 60) ❏ Gum Springs Glen (See ad on page 15) ❏ Herndon Harbor House (See ad on page 15) ❏ Lockwood House (See ad on page 15) ❏ Morris Glen (See ad on page 15) ❏ Potomac Place (See ad on page 30) ❏ Tribute at Heritage Village (See ad on page 27) ❏ Vinson Hall (See ad on page 28) ❏ The Virginian (See ad on page 64) ❏ Waltonwood (See ad on page 28) ❏ Wingler House (See ad on page 15)

F R E E

Buffington Community Room 3300 Olney Sand Spring Rd. Olney, MD 20832

Virginia

★

Thursday, December 3, 2015 12:30 pm – 1:30 pm

Call 800-451-2006 ext. 3335 and mention reservation code MD-1203

F R E E F R E E

FREE Seminar

❏ Arden Courts (See ad on page 26) ❏ Brooke Grove (See ad on page 23) ❏ Churchill Senior Living (See ad on page 14) ❏ Covenant Village (See ad on page 15) ❏ Emerson House (See ad on page 15) ❏ Homecrest House (See ad on page 16) ❏ Mrs. Philippines Home (See ad on page 15) ❏ Olney Assisted Living (See ad on page 21) ❏ Park View Bladensburg (See ad on page 40) ❏ Park View Columbia (See ad on page 40) ❏ Park View Emerson (See ad on page 40) ❏ Park View Laurel (See ad on page 40) ❏ Pin Oak Village (See ad on page 22) ❏ Randolph Village (See ad on page 22) ❏ Riderwood (See ads on pages 24 & 60) ❏ Rollingcrest Commons (See ad on page 22) ❏ Solana of Olney, The (See ad on page 17) ❏ Springvale Terrace (See ad on page 21)

I N F O R M A T I O N

Join us for an educational session on knee osteoarthritis and how to manage its symptoms.

Maryland

F R E E

MANAGE YOUR KNEE PAIN AND

❏ Friendship Terrace (See ad on page 22) ❏ Residences at Thomas Circle (See ad on page 12)

★

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

District of Columbia

I N F O R M A T I O N

Customers don’t have that much to worry about in a typical non-cash transaction. Nevertheless, there are best practices with these new cards. On Oct. 9, the FBI issued a consumer warning that when you use a chip card, if given a choice, you should always enter your PIN (personal

Housing Communities

F R E E

For extra security, use PIN

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

★

about moving to the new, safer technology that they are shifting liability. That is, if merchants don’t adopt the new cards in a timely way, card issuers won’t cover them for incidents of counterfeit fraud.

★

From page 3

I N F O R M A T I O N

Chip-enabled cards

identification number). This is a lot safer, the bureau concluded, than simply signing for the purchase. One potential unintended consequence that has been observed in other countries with EMV technology is an increase in the rate of what’s called “card not present” fraud. Simply put, because the security of in-person transactions is so much higher, thieves shift to using stolen debit card numbers to make purchases online or over the phone instead. This is why monitoring your statement and watching out for unauthorized charges remains so important — no matter what new technology comes down the pike. © 2015 Anya Kamenetz. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

MAIL OR FAX FOR FREE INFORMATION

I N F O R M A T I O N

VizWiz is an iPhone app that allows blind and low-vision users to receive quick an-

F R E E

Oh, say, can you see?

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

From page 4

swers to questions about their surroundings. Users take a photo of something with their phone, and the app sends it to members of the user’s social network. Volunteers then give them details about what they can’t see. More than 50,000 questions have been answered in the last four years. Most questions were answered in a minute or less. VizWiz for iPhone is free.

I N F O R M A T I O N

Links & apps

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Technology & Innovations

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5

Technology & Innovations | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

Asbury Methodist Village 301 Odendhal Avenue, Gaithersburg, MD 301-987-6291

EXPLORE WINDOWS® 10 APPS

Prerequisites: Computer experience & Windows 10 PC Fee: $35 2 sessions Limit: 10 # 444 Tue Jan 5 — Jan 12 9:30am-11:30am

Windows 10 comes with a number of Universal apps that provide useful features. This course explores several of the apps and shows you how to use the Windows Store to obtain additional ones. You learn how to manage apps on the Start menu, also.

DO MORE WITH EMAIL

Prerequisite: Computer Basics or equivalent Fee: $50 3 sessions Limit: 10 # 445 Fri Jan 8- Jan 22 9:30am-11:30am

Learn to take full advantage of your web-based email service. This course covers all aspects of email, including attachments and contact management. You use your own mail provider for most lessons. You need your email User ID and password for class.

MASTER MICROSOFT EDGE® BROWSER

Prerequisite: Computer experience & Windows 10 PC Fee: $35 2 sessions Limit: 10 # 446 Mon Jan 25-Feb 1 9:30am-11:30am # 447 Tue Feb 9 – Feb 16 9:30am-11:30am

Edge is the new web browser provided with Windows 10. It contains a number of useful features that make your browsing easier. This course shows you how to setup the browser to best meet your needs and how to take advantage of the new features.

D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

tions, find things on your computer and do different computer tasks.

MOVING UP TO WINDOWS® 10

Prerequisite: Computer experience & Windows 10 PC Fee: $85 6 sessions Limit: 10 # 450 Mon Mar 7- Apr 11 9:30am-11:30am # 451 Tue Mar 8- Apr 12 9:30am-11:30am # 452 Wed Mar 11- Apr 15 9:30am-11:30am

Prerequisite: Computer experience & Windows 10 PC Fee: $20 1 session Limit: 10 # 448 Tue Jan 26 9:30am-11:30am

You have upgraded your PC to the new Windows 10. Now you want to know how to take advantage of the several new features it introduces. This course explains what’s new and what’s familiar in Windows 10 and shows you how to use it to improve your computing experience.

HOW CORTANA® CAN ASSIST YOU

FREE sessions: an integral part of your learning. You must be registered for at least one class to participate. No Fee Wed Jan 6 — Feb 10 9:30am-1:30pm Wed Mar 9 — Apr 13 9:30am-1:30pm

ONEDRIVE® & THE CLOUD

The Cloud is a new place to store files and do computing. Windows 10 provides you with free storage space on the OneDrive® service. This course shows you what you can do with OneDrive® and how you can use the Cloud to do computing. Prerequisite: Computer experience & Windows 10 PC Fee: $20 1 session Limit: 10 # 449 Fri Feb 12 9:30am-11:30am

Cortana is the new digital personal assistant integrated into Windows 10. This course shows you how you can use Cortana to find information, answer ques-

ASSISTED PRACTICE

continued next page

JCA SENIORTECH JCA Bronfman Center 12320 Parklawn Drive, Rockville, MD 240-395-0916

COMPUTER BASICS WITH WINDOWS® 7

Prerequisite: Windows 7 Fee: $85 6 sessions Limit: 8 # 453 Tue Feb 9 — Mar 15 10:00am-12:00pm

This course is for students who want to refresh or expand their computer skills. It covers the start menu and taskbar, files and folders, the World Wide Web, and use of applications; such as the word processor.

WINDOWS® 7 BEYOND THE BASICS

Prerequisite: Computer Basics or equivalent Fee: $85 6 sessions Limit: 8 # 454 Thurs Mar 31 — May 5 1:00pm–3:00pm

This is the perfect class for Windows 7 users who have mastered the basics and want to explore further topics. Topics include managing files and folders, understanding and customizing the start menu, Aero Display functions, control panel, user accounts, disk utilities, operating system updates, backups and more!

MICROSOFT WORD 2010: FROM THE BEGINNING AND BEYOND

Prerequisite: Computer Basics or equivalent Fee: $75 5 sessions Limit: 8 # 455 Mon Feb 22- Mar 21 10:00am-12:00pm

Learn basic word-processing skills using Microsoft Word, including hands-on experience creating documents of varying levels of complexity plus more advanced skills, such as illustrating documents with graphics, using templates, creating tables and advanced formatting.

YOUR IPAD® AND YOU

Prerequisite: iPad needs to be updated to the ios9.1 and have an Apple® ID and password Bring fully charged iPad to class Fee: $65 4 sessions Limit: 8 # 456 Thurs Feb 4— Feb 25 10:00am-12:00pm

Learn the basics about what you can do with your iPad and how using a tablet is different from using a desktop or laptop computer. Topics include basic navigation, apps and where you get them, how to set up your email account, managing your contact list, taking and sharing pictures, listening to music, how to keep your iPad safe and running efficiently, and how to back up data.

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

7 8

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Technology & Innovations

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5

10 AMAZINGLY USEFUL WEBSITES YOU NEVER KNEW EXISTED

Prerequisite: Computer Basics or equivalent 1 session Limit: 8 Fee: $20 # 403 Tues Dec 8 1:00pm-3:00pm # 457 Thurs Jan 21 1:00pm-3:00pm # 458 Thurs Mar 3 1:00pm-3:00pm

Learn about a wide range of useful websites. Tired of waiting for a company’s help desk to answer? There’s a website that gets them to call you! Print web pages without all the ads, find a manual for that appliance that needs repair, get great recipes and nutritional information, FREE coupons, FREE books and more! IPHONE®,

AN INTRODUCTION PART 1

Prerequisite: Bring fully charged iPhone to class Fee: $20 1 session Limit: 8 # 459 Wed Mar 2 10:00am-12:00pm

Take the first steps to learn about navigating your iPhone, receiving and making phone calls, and using the Safari® browser. IPHONE®,

AN INTRODUCTION PART 2

Prerequisite: Bring fully charged iPhone to class Fee: $20 1 session Limit: 8 # 460 Wed Mar 9 10:00am-12:00pm

Learn about mail, settings (including privacy and security settings), iCloud find my iPhone, and organizing favorite apps. IPHONE®, PHOTOGRAPHY

Prerequisite: Bring fully charged iPhone to class 1 session Limit: 8 Fee: $20 # 461 Wed Feb 3 10:00am-12:00pm

Learn how to use your iPhone to take, edit and share great photos.

SMART PHONES AND TABLETS USING THE ANDROID OPERATING SYSTEM WORKSHOP

Prerequisite: Computer Basics or equivalent Fee: $ 20 1 session Limit: 8 # 462 Thurs Jan 14 10:00am-12:00pm # 463 Mon Apr 11 10:00am-12:00pm

Learn what the Android operating system is and how to work with its direct manipulation interface and see demonstrations of popular applications (apps) that run on Android.

BROWSING AND SEARCHING THE WEB **NEW**NEW**

Prerequisite: Computer Basics or equivalent Fee: $ 20 1 session Limit: 8 # 464 Thurs Mar 17 10:00am-12:00pm

Using Internet Explorer®, Google Chrome®, and Google® search to teach how to more effectively use the World Wide Web. We will teach the basics but go beyond including setting up favorites and bookmarks, creating a bookmark bar, opening multiple tabs, and adding extensions to the browser. Learn many techniques to more precisely find the information you want.

MEET THE TECHNOLOGY GURUS! BRING US YOUR PROBLEMS!

Fee: $30 per individual session Limit: 8 # 465 Date and time to be determined by Tech Guru

Have a 1:1 lesson with our Tech Gurus. Experts are available to help individuals with hardware or software issues. Topics: Windows® 10, buying a new computer, securing your computer, backing up the cloud, laptop/desktop Issues, photos/videos, PowerPoint® and more. Your session will last 2 hours. After you register, you will be contacted to select a date and time for your session and to discuss the questions or issues you will be working on with one of our Tech Gurus.

 NEW  NEW  NEW 

MEET THE MACTECHNOLOGY GURUS! BRING US YOUR PROBLEMS! Fee: $30 per individual session

Limit: 8

Have a 1:1 lesson with our MacTech Gurus. Experts are available to help individuals with hardware or software issues. Topics: iPhone®, iPad®, Apple® Laptops/computers. # 466 Wed Jan 6 10:00am-12:00pm # 467 Wed Jan 13 10:00am-12:00pm # 468 Wed Jan 20 10:00am-12:00pm # 469 Wed Jan 27 10:00am-12:00pm # 470 Tue Feb 9 1:00pm-3:00pm # 471 Tue Feb16 1:00pm-3:00pm # 472 Tue Feb 23 1:00pm-3:00pm # 473 Tue Mar 1 1:00pm-3:00pm # 474 Tue Mar 8 1:00pm-3:00pm # 475 Tue Mar 15 1:00pm-3:00pm # 476 Wed Apr 6 10:00am-12:00pm # 477 Wed Apr 13 10:00am-12:00pm # 478 Wed Apr 20 10:00am-12:00pm # 479 Wed Apr 27 10:00am-12:00pm

 NEW  NEW  NEW 

TECH TUESDAY

PRESENTATIONS AND DISCUSSIONS ON HOT TOPICS IN TECHNOLOGY

ORGANIZING, ENAHNCING AND SHARING YOUR DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHS Fee: $20 # 413 Tues

1 session Dec. 8

Limit: 25 10:00am-12:00pm

Learn about the tools available on your computer and the Internet that can be used to increase the enjoyment you obtain from digital pictures. Using free software tools available on the Web, the instructor will show you how to organize and manage and enhance photos, and how to share them by creating web albums, photo books and more.

WINDOWS® 10: WHAT’S NEW Fee: $20 # 480 Tues

1 session Jan 12

Limit: 25 10:00am-12:00pm

Microsoft is offering free upgrades to existing Windows users to go to the new Windows 10 OS. In this 2 hour lecture and demonstration we will examine the new features that you will see in Windows 10 including: The new Start Menu and Desktop, Microsoft App Store,Tablet Mode, Using Multiple Desktops, Looking at the Upgrade process, New Windows Apps included in Windows 10.

CUTTING THE CABLE – TV WITHOUT THE PRICE OF CABLE Fee: $20 # 481 Tues

1 session Feb 9

Limit: 25 1:30pm-3:30pm

With the availability of high-speed broadband internet, it is possible to enjoy television without the high price of cable TV. Learn about programs that are available online and how to watch on a standard HDTV set.

HEALTH AND WELLNESS WEBSITES Fee: $20 # 482 Tues

1 session Feb 23

Limit: 25 10:00am-12:00pm

This class will introduce Websites that provide trustworthy information on a wide range of health, wellness and medical topics. A mix of Federal Government agency sites, and sites sponsored by prominent medical societies will be demonstrated and described. You will also learn how to begin to evaluate Websites for the quality, reliability and credibility of their content.

continued next page

Technology & Innovations | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

INTRODUCTION THE THE CLOUD Fee: $20 # 483 Tues

1 session Mar 15

D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

JCA SENIORTECH

Limit: 25 1:30pm-3:30pm

There has been a lot of talk about “the cloud” recently. Learn what the cloud is and how to use it for storage, backup and sharing of files, pictures and music.

Crystal City

1750 Crystal Drive Shops, Crystal Square Arcade, Arlington, VA 703-941-1007 COMPUTER BASICS: INTRODUCTION TO THE PERSONAL COMPUTER USING WINDOWS© 10

Prerequisite: Bring a flash drive to class Fee: $85 6 sessions Limit: 8 # 484 Tues Jan 5 — Feb 9 10:30am-12:30pm # 485 Tues Mar 1 — Apr 5 10:30am-12:30pm

This course is intended for people seeking to refresh or expand their computer skills. It covers the start menu and taskbar, files and folders, the World Wide Web, and use of applications such as the word processor.

EXCEL BASICS

Prerequisite: Computer Basics or equivalent Fee: $85 6 sessions Limit: 8 # 486 Thurs Jan 7 — Feb 11 10:30am-12:30pm

Develop a basic spreadsheet, learn how to enter and format text and numbers, adjust column width to accommodate data, add or delete rows and columns, and align data within and across columns.

EXCEL—BEYOND BASICS

Prerequisite: Excel Basics or equivalent 3 sessions Limit: 8 Fee: $50 # 487 Thurs Mar 3 — Mar 17 10:30am-12:30pm

Develop and format pie charts and columns charts. Use Excel as a database. Explore other subjects of interest.

FACEBOOK IS EASY WORKSHOP

Prerequisite: Bring a picture of yourself and a picture you’d like to share in digital form (jpg). Fee: $20 1 session Limit: 8 # 488 Thurs Feb 18 10:30am-12:30pm # 489 Thurs Apr 21 10:30am-12:30pm

Find out how set up a Facebook account and keep it as private or public as you want. Share pictures, thoughts, or quotations with chosen friends.

FILE MANAGEMENT WORKSHOP

Prerequisite: Basic computer skills 1 session Limit: 8 Fee: $20 # 490 Wed Feb 17 10:30am-12:30pm # 491 Wed Apr 14 10:30am-12:30pm

Learn how to manage your files—documents you’ve created or copied or downloaded, pictures, and everything else.

GRAPHICS EXPLORERS

Prerequisite: Knowledge of Photoshop® Elements software Elements 10 or 11 software Fee: $40 ongoing sessions Limit: 8 #492 Mon Jan 4-Feb 29 10:30am-12:30pm #493 Mon Mar 7-Apr 25 10:30am-12:30pm

Graphics Explorers is a series of meetings with no fixed agenda or syllabus. There is no instructor. Students use Photoshop Elements 10 or 11 to enhance photographs, using several workbooks. Students provide their own copies of Photoshop Elements and workbooks.

GUIDE TO BUYING A PERSONAL COMPUTER (WORKSHOP) Fee: $20 # 419 Thurs # 494 Thurs # 495 Thurs

1 session Dec. 3 Jan 14 Apr 7

Limit: 8 1:00pm-3:00pm 1:00pm-3:00pm 10:30am-12:30pm

Learn about important issues to consider and features to look for when purchasing your next personal computer.

SECURING YOUR COMPUTER Fee: $20 # 496 Thurs # 497 Thurs

1 session Jan 7 Mar 10

Limit: 8 1:00pm-3:00pm 1:00pm-3:00pm

Learn about important security issues, including how hackers choose computers, phishing, spam email, website drive-by, botnets, passwords, administrative accounts, keeping applications updated, keeping the operating system updated, and malware protection.

ORGANIZING, EDITING, AND SHARING PHOTOS WORKSHOP

Prerequisite: Basic computer and mouse skills Fee: $50 3 sessions Limit: 8 # 498 Wed Jan 6, 13, 20 10:30pm-12:30pm # 499 Wed Mar 2, 9, 16 10:30am-12:30pm

Learn to import digital photos from cameras, phones, and tablets and use Picasa, a free photo-editing program.

TAMING WORD (WORKSHOP)

Prerequisite: Basic computer knowledge and mouse skills Fee: $35 2 sessions Limit: 8 # 422 Tues Dec.15 – 22 10:00am-12:00pm # 500 Tues Feb 3-10 10:30am-12:30pm

Learn how to make Microsoft Word your personal tool for word processing.

TOURING THE INTERNET

Prerequisite: Computer Basics or equivalent Fee: $85 6 sessions Limit: 8 # 501 Mon Jan 4 — Feb 22 1:00pm-3:00pm # 502 Mon Mar 7 — Apr 11 1:00pm-3:00pm

This course introduces important Internet resources, which include sending and receiving email with or without attachments, using address books, browsers, Internet and email security, search, shopping, travel, entertainment, and utilizing government web-based resources.

UNDERSTANDING YOUR APPLE IPAD® (WORKSHOP)

Prerequisite: Bring a fully charged Apple iPad to class Fee: $50 3 sessions Limit: 8 # 503 Wed Jan 13-27 1:00pm-3:00pm # 504 Wed Apr 6-20 1:00pm-3:00pm

This course demystifies the iPad, starting with the hand gestures used to operate the device and the purpose of external buttons and switches, and progressing to hands-on use of a variety of standard iPad applications.

USING YOUR APPLE IPHONE® (WORKSHOP)

Prerequisite: Bring fully charged iPhone to class Fee: $20 1 session Limit: 8 # 426 Mon Dec. 14 1:00pm-3:00pm # 505 Mon Feb 29 1:00pm-3:00pm # 506 Mon Apr 18 1:00pm-3:00pm

Learn how to use your iPhone to surf the Internet, take and share photos, play games, read books – and much more.

USING SKYPE® TO MAKE VIDEO OR AUDIO CALLS (WORKSHOP) Fee: $20 # 428 Thurs

1 session Dec 3

Limit: 8 10:00am-12:00pm

# 507 Thurs # 508 Tues

Feb 25 Apr 19

10:30am-12:30pm 10:30am-12:30pm

Learn how to use the free Skype application to communicate with relatives and friends.

VIEWING MOVIES ON YOUR PC (WORKSHOP) Prerequisite: Basic computer skills Fee: $20 1 session # 509 Wed Feb 3 # 510 Wed Apr 27

Limit: 8 1:00pm-3:00pm 1:00pm-3:00pm

This is your chance to find out how to view movies in your home and pay little or nothing for viewing.

WINDOWS® 8.1 DEMONSTRATION

Prerequisite: None, you may bring your own laptop with Windows® 8.1 Fee: $20 1 session Limit: 8 # 432 Thurs Dec 10 10:00am-12:00pm

This workshop will highlight Microsoft Windows 8.1 operating system, concentrating on its “Tile” mode of operation. The students’ computers at the Center have the Windows 7 operating system, so bring your Windows 8.1 laptop or come and see Windows 8.1 demonstrated.

WINDOWS® 10 HOW TO INSTALL IT WORKSHOP

Prerequisite: Ownership of a computer with Windows 7 installed and desire to update to Windows 10 Fee: $20 1 session Limit: 8 # 511 Thurs Jan 21 1:00pm-3:00pm # 512 Thurs Apr 28 10:30am-12:30pm

An update to Windows 10 is available free for a limited time to anyone now using Windows 7 as their operating system. Students will learn how to download and install Windows 10.

WINDOWS® 10 HOW TO USE IT WORKSHOP

Prerequisite: Basic Computer Skills 1 session Limit: 8 Fee: $20 # 513 Thurs Mar 24 10:30am-12:30pm

Students will learn how to use Windows 10, the latest Microsoft operating system, including comparisons with Windows 7 and Windows 8.1; how to customize Edge, the new Internet provider replacing Internet Explorer; and file management.

ASSISTED PRACTICE No Fee

Limit: 5

FREE sessions: an integral part of your learning. You must be registered for at least one class to participate. When no classes are being offered, volunteers are available to help registered students practice what they learn in classes and workshops. Speak with your instructor for details.

REFUND POLICY:

Students who wish to withdraw and receive a full refund must notify JCA at least 48 hours before the first class begins. A 50% refund is given after the first class.

ATTENTION:

Instruction, course materials and all computer language settings are in

English.

Courses are taught with Windows computers.

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Technology & Innovations

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5

JCA SENIORTECH

SeniorTech DESCRIPTION AND GUIDELINES

The Microsoft operating systems vary by site and include Windows® 7 and Windows® 10. Classes are designed to help adults, 50+, refresh or advance their computer skills and learn to use social media. Courses are taught by volunteer instructors and coaches. Courses are almost always “hands on” in which students practice skills and techniques on a computer during class.

Notice: Within the limits of its resources, JCA serves people of all faiths and from all walks of life. Indeed, we try to be as inclusive as possible in all that we do. Sometimes, however, JCA may deny a person or group the option to enroll or to continue to participate in all or particular programs and services. We reserve the right to do so, at our sole discretion, should we believe that our action is in the best interest of the individual or program or for any other reason not precluded by applicable law.

INCLEMENT WEATHER POLICY

SENIORTECH REGISTRATION FORM

COMPUTER TRAINING

WAYS TO REGISTER: BY MAIL:

Include your payment with form to JCA SeniorTech 12320 Parklawn Drive Rockville, MD 20852-1726

BY PHONE: Call 240-395-0916 with your credit card information

NOTE: ALL REGISTRATIONS ARE DUE 7 DAYS PRIOR TO START OF CLASS. Name: ___________________________________________________________________ DOB: ________________ Address: _______________________________________________________________________________________ City: ____________________________________________________ State: _______ Zip Code: _______________ Phone#: ______________________________ Email: __________________________________________________ I have taken a JCA SeniorTech class before: ____ Yes ____ No

Student ID (Office use only)_______________

I WOULD LIKE TO REGISTER FOR: Class #

Class Title

Location

Start Date

Start Time

Fee

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

TOTAL $ _________

PAYMENT METHOD:

WB12/15

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

Name as it appears on card: ____________________________________________________________

Each JCA SeniorTech center follows the weather-related decisions of the public school system in its jurisdiction, except that if a school system is closed for even part of the day, the center will be closed the entire day. As soon as possible, your instructor will arrange to make up any classes cancelled due to inclement weather.

For more information, call 240-395-0916.

Email seniortech@accessjca.org Website www.accessjca.org

Card Number

____________ ____________ ____________ _____________

Exp. Date

______ /______

Sec. Code

__________

OFFICE USE ONLY Course #_____ Paid_____ Registration #_______ Date________

Course #_____ Paid_____ Registration #_______ Date________

NOTICE: WITHIN THE LIMITS OF ITS RESOURCES, JCA SERVES PEOPLE OF ALL FAITHS AND FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE. INDEED, WE TRY TO BE AS INCLUSIVE AS POSSIBLE IN ALL THAT WE DO. SOMETIMES, HOWEVER, JCA MAY DENY A PERSON OR GROUP THE OPTION TO ENROLL OR TO CONTINUE TO PARTICIPATE IN ALL OR PARTICULAR PROGRAMS AND SERVICES. WE RESERVE THE RIGHT TO DO SO, AT OUR SOLE DISCRETION, SHOULD WE BELIEVE THAT OUR ACTION IS IN THE BEST INTEREST OF THE INDIVIDUAL OR PROGRAM OR FOR ANY OTHER REASON NOT PRECLUDED BY APPLICABLE LAW. Each contribution or remittance of payment by check is considered authorization to convert that particular check into an electronic fund transfer. If your check is unable to be converted, it may be processed as a Check Replacement Document drawn against your account. When we use information from your check to make an electronic fund transfer, funds may be withdrawn from your account as soon as the same day you make your payment, and you will not receive your check back from your financial institution. You have the right to opt out of Electronic Conversion. If you choose to exercise this right, write the words ‘Opt Out’ in the memo field of your check and JCA will process it as a draft against your account.

More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Health Fitness &

OVERHYPED DRUG ADS Prescription drug ads come under fire from both FDA and AMA AN ELEPHANTINE QUESTION Why is elephant cancer rare? The answer might help treat humans PUNCHING UP FITNESS Fitness boxing provides aerobic exercise, improved coordination and more BUM KNEE: SURGERY OR PT? Surgery works, but first consider less drastic solutions for knee pain

Are your meds making you depressed? Be on the lookout for mood swings, sleeplessness and anxiety when starting certain medications. We all get the blues from time to time. But if signs of depression, such as prolonged hopelessness or trouble concentrating, seem to come out of nowhere, the cause may be in your medication regimen. “I think most patients are not aware that some medications can cause depression,” said Dr. Laura Carr, a pharmacist at Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts General Hospital. “This side effect can be missed because sometimes patients hesitate to tell their doctor they are experiencing depression symptoms.”

Common culprits A wide variety of medications can affect your mood and lead to depressive symptoms. One example is benzodiazepines, such as alprazolam (Xanax), diazepam (Valium), lorazepam (Ativan) and temazepam (Restoril), which are used to treat anxiety and insomnia. “Benzodiazepines are central nervous system depressants. These medications can build up in the body, leading to side ef-

fects that can manifest as depression symptoms,” explained Carr. She said older people are more likely to experience the residual effects of these drugs because their bodies metabolize medications more slowly. Other medications that may have a side effect of depression include • antibiotics such as levofloxacin (Levaquin) and ciprofloxacin (Cipro) • prescription painkillers such as oxycodone (Oxycontin) or fentanyl (Abstral) • hormone replacement therapy such as estrogen (Premarin) • corticosteroids such as prednisone (Deltasone) and triamcinolone (Aristocort) • beta blockers such as metoprolol (Lopressor) and carvedilol (Coreg) • statins such as simvastatin (Zocor) and pravastatin (Pravachol) • anticholinergic drugs such as dicyclomine (Bentyl) • anticonvulsant drugs such as gabapentin (Neurontin) and topiramate (Topamax). Paradoxically, two medicines that are sometimes prescribed for severe depression can produce depression: aripiprazole

(Abilify) and quetiapine (Seroquel). Not surprisingly, said Carr, “the risk for developing depression as a side effect of medicines is greatest in people with a history of major depressive disorder, prior depression episodes, a family history of depression, or prior episodes of drug-induced depression.” The symptoms of drug-induced depression are the same as for any kind of depression: feeling hopeless, irritable, anxious or angry; loss of interest in work, family or once-pleasurable activities, including sex; extreme fatigue; trouble concentrating; trouble sleeping; aches or pains, headaches, cramps or digestive problems; trouble keeping up with responsibilities of work, family or other important activities; or increase or decrease in appetite or weight.

What you can do If you suspect that a medication you’re already taking may be causing depression, don’t be shy about reporting your symptoms. “When I counsel people about their medications, I encourage them to speak

openly with their doctors, and ask if their symptoms could be a side effect of the medication,” said Carr. If you’ve just started a new medication, be proactive about tracking symptoms that develop. Keep a journal, and note the day, time and type of new symptoms you experience, such as mood swings or sleeplessness. And be on the lookout for new symptoms in the first month. “With most medications, the onset of depression symptoms would generally occur during the first weeks or month of starting — or even stopping — a medication,” said Carr. Report new symptoms immediately. Your doctor will help you figure out if a change in dosage or a new medication might help resolve them. Remember, too, that depression has many causes, and your medication may not be to blame. That makes it all the more important to talk to your physician, address your symptoms and find some relief. © 2015, President and Fellows of Harvard College. All Rights Reserved. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

More precise medical codes track quality By Lauran Neergaard If things are a bit tense in your doctor’s office, some behind-the-scenes red tape could be to blame. On Oct. 1, the nation’s physicians and hospitals had to start using a massive new coding system to describe your visit on insurance claims so they could get paid. Prior to that, U.S. health providers used a system of roughly 14,000 codes to designate a diagnosis, both for reimbursement purposes and in medical databases. To get more precise, the updated system has about 68,000 codes — essentially an expanded dictionary to capture more of the details from a patient’s chart. How precise? Get nipped feeding a bird, and the codes can distinguish if it was a goose or a parrot. Have a bike accident with one of those horse-drawn tourist carriages? Yep, there’s a code for that, too.

An early warning system Unusual accidents aside, the government says the long-awaited change should

help health officials better track quality of care, spot early warning signs of a brewing outbreak, or look for illness or injury trends. Under ICD-10 — the 10th edition of the International Classification of Diseases — there are codes that flag novel strains of flu, for example, and even Ebola and its cousins. With increasing focus on sports concussions, the codes can reflect how long patients lost consciousness, and if they needed repeat care. “ICD-10 has the potential to create many improvements in our public health system,” Andy Slavitt, acting administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), told health providers in a recent conference call. But might patients also see an uptick in insurance denials for coding errors that require the doctor’s office to refile the claims? Dr. Robert Wergin, president of the American Academy of Family Physicians, is optimistic that providers are ready enough that patients shouldn’t feel an impact.

“Sitting in the room with a patient, I don’t think you’ll notice anything,” Wergin said. His 10-doctor practice has updated the electronic medical records of patients with chronic diseases, so the next time the diabetic with early kidney disease comes in, that new code is one less thing to check. Most doctors’ offices only use several dozen codes anyway, to match each specialty’s typical diagnoses, Wergin noted. “Really, I probably live in a world of 140 codes.”

Tracking trends Why are codes so important? It goes beyond documenting that the bill is accurate (for example, no reimbursement for a wrist X-ray if the diagnosis was for knee pain). With medical care gone digital, more precise diagnosis codes could allow researchers, even doctors themselves, to get a closer look at trends in one office or the entire country, Wergin said. A search of an office’s data could show how, say, all preg-

nant women with a urinary tract infection in the third trimester fared. The new codes, already used in many other countries, indicate if it’s a first visit or a repeat one. A spike in repeat visits for strep throat might indicate that a more worrisome strain is spreading. This kind of data also is used by insurers and other organizations to help determine quality of care. While there has been some concern that not all health providers were ready for the coding switch, the industry has had years to prepare. The U.S. postponed the deadline twice. Still, responding to concerns from doctors, CMS has promised some flexibility in the first year of assessing claims, if the coding is close. “There will be bumps and challenges,” CMS’ Slavitt said, as he appointed an ombudsman to be the contact for health providers who experience them. Read more about the new coding system at http://tinyurl.com/opbbf29. — AP

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Fitness & Health

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5

Medicare to cover end-of-life counseling By Lauran Neergaard Medicare will soon start paying doctors to help patients plan what kind of care they want at the end of life, an idea more broadly accepted today than six years ago, when it touched off a political uproar about “death panels.” The policy change was urged by numerous physician and health groups. Some doctors provide this “advance care planning” to their patients without getting paid for the counseling time, and some private insurers already reimburse for it. But the Obama administration’s policy change could make the talks more common among about 55 million Medicare beneficiaries. The rule, proposed last summer and finalized in October as part of broader doctor-payment regulations, takes effect Jan. 1. The counseling is entirely voluntary, and could take place during seniors’ annual wellness visit or during regular office visits. “As a physician and a son, I personally know how important these discussions are for patients and families,” said Dr. Patrick Conway, Medicare’s chief medical officer. “We believe patients and families deserve the opportunity to discuss these issues with their physician and care team.”

Too much invasive care Most Americans say they’d prefer to die

at home, with treatment to free them from pain. But the landmark “Dying in America” report from the prestigious Institute of Medicine found the reality too often is unwanted invasive care and not enough comfort — in part because too few people make their wishes known to their doctors and loved ones. The movement toward what’s called advance care planning also reflects that this isn’t just an issue for people who already are seriously ill, but a process that may prompt different decisions at different stages of life. Involving a doctor in those decisions can help people fully understand their options. For example, a relatively healthy person might want all-out efforts to resuscitate them after an accident, but if diagnosed with advanced cancer might make different decisions as their health gradually worsened. Medicare decided not to limit how often such counseling could take place, Conway said, in part because of feedback from doctors and the public that people may need repeat counseling as their health needs change. “If you made a choice and you become more ill, you might want to have the discussion again,” Conway explained. “For some patients, it may need to occur multiple times in a year if they’re quite ill and their circumstances change. For other patients, they

may not need this service at all in a year.” Medicare’s new policy “is a turning point in end-of-life care,” said Oregon Democratic Rep. Earl Blumenauer, a longtime congressional proponent of coverage for such counseling. He said next steps include helping ensure that advance directives for all patients are easily accessible and updated frequently, and that doctors are trained to have these difficult conversations. “Ultimately, the care provided must align

with the patient’s stated goals, values and informed preferences,” Blumenauer said. About three-quarters of the people who die each year in the U.S. are 65 and older, making Medicare the largest insurer at the end of life, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation. For years there had been bipartisan consensus about helping people to better understand their end-of-life choices. A 1992 law See MEDICARE, page 12

WE DEFEND THE RIGHTS OF D.C. SENIORS.

If you or someone you know is facing mortgage or tax foreclosure, or you need help understanding and enforcing your tenants’ rights, we’re here to help. From health care coverage to fraud, Social Security to end-of-life planning, we’ve been empowering, defending and protecting D.C. seniors by providing them with free legal help for the past 40 years. Learn how we can help by calling 202-434-2120 or visiting aarp.org/LCE Legal Counsel for the Elderly is an afÞliate of AARP.

Fitness & Health | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

FDA calls for clearer warnings in drug ads By Nancy Ferrari Twenty years ago, you probably wouldn’t have been able to name any of the numerous prescription medications available to you, let alone think to ask your doctor for a particular one by name. Today,

the average (even perfectly healthy) consumer is barraged by hundreds, if not thousands, of “direct-to-consumer” advertisements for prescription drugs. In 1997, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) created specific guidelines

for broadcast advertising related to prescription drugs. Ever since then, drug companies have taken advantage of this opportunity to promote their medicines for a wide range of conditions — from Alzheimer’s disease to low white blood cell counts due to cancer treatment, not to mention the myriad ads for over-thecounter products.

Glossing over side effects Direct-to-consumer ads must, by law, include information on a drug’s risks and side effects as well as its benefits. Often, the former comes in the form of a rapidly recited list of potential problems. But because it is difficult if not impossible to cover all potential risks in a brief television spot, these ads must also point consumers to more complete information listed in a print ad or on a website.

MY GRANDSON CAN COME BY ANYTIME

THE THRILL OF BEING IN THE MIDDLE OF TOWN

I LOVE A SATURDAY MATINEE

IT FEELS SO GOOD TO BE HOME

MY FAVORITE RESTAURANT IS TWO BLOCKS AWAY

IN THE CIRCLE

You’ !"#$!%&#'()! '*'#+!,'-.!&*&)/-.'#+!/(0!1(0 $!&*&)!#&&$2 Diverse and fascinating people, DC excitement, stimulating activities, peace of mind—

This information is usually a lengthy and technical text compiled by the drug companies. Consumers have complained that the information is so unclear and hard to read that they barely bother. In response, the FDA is now calling for a Drug Facts box that summarizes the most important risks of each drug, using plain English, color schemes and easily readable fonts. Critics complain that the proposed box could still leave out a lot of valuable information. Aside from any “black box” warnings and “contraindications” (situations in which a person should definitely not take the drug), the only guideline is that the box must list the “most serious and most common” side effects. Meanwhile, the American Medical Association is calling for a ban on direct-toconsumer ads for prescription drugs and implantable meidcal devices, saying that they contribute to rising drug costs and patients’ demands for inappropriate treatment.

Don’t pressure your doctor Informing consumers about new and potentially useful drugs is not necessarily a bad thing. However, a truly informed consumer should not rely solely on direct-toconsumer drug ads before making the decision to try a new one. Buyer beware: A new medication will undoubtedly be more expensive than older medications that can do the job just as well. If you see an ad for a drug that you think might help you, or be an improvement over medication you’re already taking, talk with your doctor. Be sure you understand the potential risks and side effects, both short- and long-term (and be aware that these are not as well understood in brandnew drugs). If your doctor says “no,” be prepared to hear her or him out. No matter how innovative a new drug might be, it may not be the right drug for you. And if you’re still interested after a while, you can always revisit the issue down the road. © 2015. President and Fellows of Harvard College. All Rights Reserved. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

and that’s just for starters. Here, in downtown’s only senior living community offering

Medicare

all levels of care, you can enjoy everything from a rooftop pool to weekly happy hours

From page 11

!"#$%&'%%$!(%"!)"*!+,#"-))-$+%.""/,'%"0+% 1&,-%%"%2+3$&2%4"-(#"(!"2( +-(&2")22."56+!*"$(" amazing views and you have senior living for your whole life. Only in the Circle.

CALL US OR VISIT

202-626-5761 ThomasCircle.com

1330 Massachusetts Ave NW Washington, DC 20005

passed under Republican President George H.W. Bush requires hospitals and nursing homes to help patients who want to prepare living wills and advance directives. Momentum stalled with political outcry over including end-of-life conversations in President Barack Obama’s healthcare law, which some opponents termed “death panels.” The concern was that pressure would be put on older patients to agree to forego costly treatments that might extend their lives. — AP

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N â&#x20AC;&#x201D; D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Fitness & Health

Fitness & Health | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

‘Heart age’ reveals risk of future problems By Mike Stobbe Your heart might be older than you are. A new government report suggests chronological age is just a number — and perhaps not a very telling one when it comes to your risk of heart attack or stroke. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report takes a new approach to try to spur more Americans to take steps to prevent cardiovascular disease. CDC scientists estimated the average “heart age” of men and women in every state, based on risk factors like high blood pressure, obesity, and whether they smoke or have diabetes. Then it compared the numbers to average actual ages. The results? Nearly three out of four U.S. adults have

a heart that’s older than the rest of their body, according to CDC calculations. For U.S. men on average, the predicted heart age was nearly eight years greater than their real age. For U.S. women, it was about five-and-a-half years. “This is alarming. Heart disease is the nation’s number one killer,” said the report’s lead author, CDC scientist Quanhe Yang. “But the bottom line is you can do some very simple things” to become younger at heart, he said.

The leading cause of death Each year, one in four U.S. deaths is due to heart disease. Many are heart attacks and strokes. The average age of first heart attack is about 64 1/2 for men and 72 for

women, according to the American Heart Association. The nation’s heart disease death rate has been falling thanks to advances in prevention and treatment, including drugs to control blood pressure and lower cholesterol. But heart disease remains America’s leading cause of death, and health officials have been pushing to get more people to control their weight, quit smoking, and take other steps to help their heart and blood vessels. The CDC is leading a “Million Hearts” campaign, launched in 2012, to prevent 1 million heart attacks and strokes by 2017. CDC scientists were intrigued by a heart age calculation developed by other researchers who were conducting a large study in Framingham, Massachusetts. Some research has indicated that Framingham heart age calculations have resonated more with patients than have more conventional medical warnings, so CDC researchers used the Framingham model — and CDC national survey data — to produce the first report on heart age across the nation. “It gives a stark, simple picture of your future risk of having — or dying from — heart attack or stroke,” said CDC Director Dr. Tom Frieden.

The estimates were specific to adults 30 to 74 who have not had a heart attack or stroke. Mississippi has the highest proportion of adults with advanced heart age, followed by West Virginia, Kentucky, Louisiana and Alabama. Those states also have higher rates of smoking, obesity, and other heart disease risk factors. Utah and Colorado had the lowest proportions of people with a heart age five years or greater than their actual age, followed by California, Hawaii and Massachusetts. Maryland and Virginia fall in the middle. The study also found that for blacks nationally, heart age was 11 years greater than actual age. The gap was much smaller for whites and Hispanics.

Find your own heart age CDC also officials shared the Framingham study’s online heart age prediction calculator for individuals to assess themselves. People have to know their systolic blood pressure — the higher of the two measurements — to generate an estimate. The CDC report is available at www. cdc.gov/vitalsigns/heartage/index.html. Calculate your heart age at bit.ly/ calculate_heart_age. — AP

BEACON BITS

Dec. 12

CONNECT WITH CAREGIVERS Kensington Park Senior Living presents Caregiver Connect with Dr. Aleksandra Parpura, an expert on aging and dementia, and

The care you need to get you back to your life.

ManorCare - Largo

301.434.0500

301.350.5555

ManorCare - Bethesda

ManorCare - Potomac

301.530.9000

301.299.2273

ManorCare - Chevy Chase

ManorCare - Silver Spring

301.657.8686

301.890.5552

ManorCare - Hyattsville

ManorCare - Wheaton

301.559.0300

301.942.2500

ManorCare - Adelphi

Experience Makes a Difference.

other caregivers on Saturday, Dec. 12 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Light refreshments will be served. This event takes place at Kensington Park, 3620 Littledale Rd., Kensington, Md. For more information or to register, call (301) 946-7700.

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Fitness & Health

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5

Don’t abruptly stop anti-depressant meds By Dr. Michael Craig Miller Q: I have been taking paroxetine (Paxil) for more than a year. Since I felt better, I stopped it. But now I feel even worse than when I started it. Is there something else I can do rather than just taking the drug again? A: You may be having discontinuation symptoms. These can occur if you stop taking an antidepressant abruptly. The risk is highest with short-acting antidepressants like paroxetine. The body and brain undergo changes as a result of antidepressant treatment. When you stop the medication, the changes revert. You can experience nightmares and stormy emotions. People also describe feeling agitated, irritable, anxious or confused. They can have crying spells. Physical symptoms are also regularly reported. Some people feel like they have the flu, or they sweat, feel weak or dizzy, have trouble with balance, get headaches, or feel nauseous or fatigued. Some people experience unusual perceptions, such as the sensation of pin-pricks or electric shocks, distorted vision or feeling cut off from reality. The key to avoiding discontinuation symptoms is to taper off the drug very, very slowly. This is harder to do with

drugs like paroxetine that are cleared out of your body quickly. You may avoid problems if you cut down the dosage by the smallest possible amounts, extremely gradually, over many weeks. A different strategy is to switch to an antidepressant that is in the same class, but stays in the body much longer than paroxetine. In this case, the drug fluoxetine (Prozac) is a good candidate. Over a month or so, make a slow transition to fluoxetine. Once on a stable dose, you can taper off slowly. You may completely avoid discomfort or experience it in a much milder and more manageable form. You took the paroxetine to relieve certain mental health symptoms. It’s possible that those symptoms have returned. In that case, you can restart the medication. On the other hand, you can try psychotherapy, which in many cases can provide the same relief as drugs. Michael Craig Miller, M.D., is an assistant professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School and an associate physician at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston. For additional consumer health information, visit www.health.harvard.edu. © 2015 President and Fellows of Harvard College. All Rights Reserved. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

BEACON BITS

Ongoing

MEMORY CAFE

Insight Memory Care Center presents a memory cafe for those with early Alzheimer’s or other dementias, and their caregivers, on the first Wednesday of every month from 2 to 4 p.m. Meet others for support, companionship and fun over coffee. For more information, contact Christi Clark at (703) 204-4664 or christi.clark@insightmcc.org.

Affordable Senior Communities Discover how great senior living is at one of our affordable apartment communities. Many of our communities feature 24-hour emergency maintenance, full activities programs, spacious floor plans, affordable rents, caring and dedicated staff, and much more. We are conveniently located near shopping, including grocery stores and pharmacies. Let us help you live life to the fullest. Call or visit our web site to view these communities:

Lockwood House 600 North Madison Street, Arlington, VA 22203

7010 Schoonmaker Court Alexandria, VA 22310

703-538-6000

703-719-7268

Rent based on income

From $856

873 Grace Street Herndon, VA 20170

703-904-9444 From $910

7837 Richmond Highway Alexandria, VA 22306

703-780-9072 From $966

Wingler House Apartments 20900 Runny Meade Terrace Ashburn, VA 20147

703-858-9507 From $903

5999 Emerson Street Bladensburg, MD 20710

301-779-6196 Rent based on income

Mrs. Philippines Home for Seniors, Inc. 18889 Waring Station Road Germantown, MD 20874

6428 Bock Street Oxon Hill, MD 20745

301-540-1162

301-567-9537

From $1,015 for 2 bedroom

Rent based on income

5101 River Road, Suite 101 • Bethesda, MD 20816

301-941-8040 www.qpmgmt.com Professionally managed by Quantum Real Estate Management LLC T/A Quantum Property Management

Fitness & Health | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

Find us on Facebook. www.facebook.com/BeaconNewspaper

Our Mission: To secure the well-being of Montgomery County Seniors through the shared strength of diverse organizations and individuals.

Professionals working with seniors are invited to our Monthly GROWS meetings on the first Thursday of the month at 8:15 a.m. usually at Holiday Park Senior Center, 3950 Ferrara Dr., Wheaton, Md.

Help needy seniors stay warm this winter. To contribute scarves, gloves, blankets and hats, visit www.growsmc.org or call (301) 765-3325

D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Health Shorts Elephants may hold clues to cancer cure Cancer is much less common in elephants than in humans, even though the big beasts’ bodies have many more cells. That’s a paradox known among scientists, and now researchers think they may have an explanation — one they say might someday lead to new ways to protect people from cancer. Compared with just one copy in humans, elephants’ cells contain 20 copies of a major cancer-suppressing gene, two teams of scientists report. The gene helps damaged cells repair themselves or self-destruct when exposed to cancer-causing substances. The findings aren’t proof that those extra p53 genes make elephants cancer-resistant, but if future research confirms it, scientists could try to develop drugs for humans that would mimic the effect. Dr. Joshua Schiffman, a pediatric cancer specialist at the University of Utah who led one of the teams, began his research after hearing a lecture a few years ago about Peto’s paradox. That refers to the fact that

large mammals, including elephants and whales, have comparatively low cancer rates even though they have many more cells than smaller species. Cancer involves uncontrolled cell growth. The lecture speaker mentioned that elephants seemed to have extra copies of the p53 gene. Schiffman’s patients include children with incomplete p53 genes because of a condition called Li-Fraumeni syndrome, which greatly increases their chances of developing cancer. So Schiffman sought to find clues from the blood of eight elephants — Ringling Bros. circus animals and local zoo animals. His team, as well as a second group of scientists, pinned down the size of the elephants’ surplus — 20 copies. The second team found many other species have only one copy, just like humans. Schiffman and his colleagues compared how elephant cells reacted to radiation, compared with cells from 10 healthy humans and 10 patients with Li-Fraumeni syndrome. The elephant cells self-destructed at twice the rate of healthy human cells, and more than five times the rate of cells from patients with the syndrome. Cells that don’t self-repair or self-destruct when exSee HEALTH SHORTS, page 17

BEACON BITS

Dec. 10

TIPS FOR VISUALLY IMPAIRED Prevention of Blindness Society presents a Lunch & Learn program

featuring guest speaker Charlie Crawford on Thursday, Dec. 10 from 12:30 to 1:45 p.m. The talk will feature tips and techniques to assist those with vision impairment, and will take place at the Friendship Heights Village Center, located at 4433 S. Park Ave., Chevy Chase, Md. For more information or to register and reserve a light lunch, visit www.youreyes.org or call (301) 656-2797.

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5

Health shorts From page 16 posed to carcinogens become prone to developing cancer. The work was published in the Journal of the American Medical Association. Dr. Judy Garber, director of cancer genetics and prevention at Dana-Farmer Cancer Institute in Boston, said the research is intriguing but preliminary. While the research won’t lead to any immediate treatment for humans, progress against cancer can come “from unexpected directions,” said Dr. Ted Gansler of the American Cancer Society. He noted that studies of eyelid and tooth development in mice led to drugs used for colon cancer, throat cancer, and several other cancers. — AP

Calcium and vitamin D don’t prevent colon polyps A major study finds that taking calcium or Vitamin D pills does not help prevent growths that can lead to colon cancer in people who have had at least one polyp in the past. It’s the latest setback among many for efforts to prevent disease through vitamin

supplements. The calcium finding was especially disappointing — three previous studies suggested calcium would help, but the new one, a more rigorous test, found no benefit. “That was a big surprise. We thought we understood calcium because the data was really quite, quite strong,” said Dr. John Baron of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He led the new study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine. The National Cancer Institute sponsored it and Pfizer Consumer Healthcare provided the pills. The study involved 2,259 people recently diagnosed with polyps — precancerous growths removed during a colonoscopy. They were assigned to take either 1,000 international units of vitamin D3, 1,200 milligrams of calcium, both, or neither. Women could choose to get calcium and then be given either real or dummy pills of vitamin D. “We did that so that women concerned about bone health would feel comfortable taking part,” because they were ensured of getting calcium if they wanted it, Baron explained. Followed up three to five years later, 43 to 45 percent of all study participants had developed a new polyp, regardless of whether they took calcium, vitamin D, both, or neither. Even when researchers took age, gender and other factors into account, supplement use made no difference in the results. Higher doses of vitamin D might make a

EXPERIENCE THE

Solana Difference

The Solana® Olney, a Brookdale® managed community, offers senior living solutions from the nation’s leader in senior accommodations and related services. Stop by and discover all the places life can go at The Solana Olney.

Stop in for a personalized visit today or call (301) 570-2611 for more information.

Assisted Living Alz zheimer’s & Dementia Care 2611 Olney Sandy Spring Road | Olney, M MD 20832 | brookdale.com !!"#$%"&! '%("!)*%"' +",-"./"0"#10234015"67"816652093"(3:.61"!.;.:<"):=>?"+0/@;.993?"#+?"A( >"B"C3<>"A>(>"&0D3:D"0:2"#E"-7F=3>"GHIIJKC%(JLKJIGM"(N

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Fitness & Health

difference, but this would have to be tested in a new study, and this one already tested a higher level than the 600 IUs a day (800 for people over 70) that the Institute of Medicine recommends, Baron said. Aspirin is thought to help prevent

polyps and colon cancer with long-term use, but it can also cause serious bleeding. Anyone considering long-term aspiring use is advised to talk with a doctor about the risks and benefits. — AP

Fitness & Health | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Introducing the “Just My Height™” Adjustable Bed...

A Recliner for The Bedroom

Lately there has been a lot of press about the many benefits of a good night’s sleep. When you wake up rested, everything from your memory and focus to your diet and stress levels can improve. Some even believe it can help you live longer. Unfortunately, many older Americans have to choose between comfort and safety in a bed. If it’s too high or too low, getting in and out of bed (particularly in the middle of the night) can be dangerous. Hospital type beds feature adjustable heights and railings, but they are hardly comfortable. Now, thanks to innovative design and superior engineering, you get the best of both. Plus, with an infinite number of positions controlled by remote control, you can pick a custom position for sleeping, reading watching TV or just relaxing with your feet up! It looks just like a regular bed… not institutional, and the mattress is luxurious and features a natural bamboo quilted cover that’s anti-bacterial, deodorizing and breathable. Considering we spend (or should spend!) a third of our life sleeping, why spend another restless night or risk injury getting in and out of bed? Call now and find out more. Call today!

NEW!

Sit-up, Lie down or anywhere in-between with just the touch of a button---for the most comfortable, restful night’s sleep you’ve ever experienced. Plus, it can be raised, or lowered(also with the touch of a button) to allow you to easily and safely enter and exit the bed.

Call now to find out how you can get the

“Just My Height™” Adjustable Bed Please mention code 101792 call toll free for our lowest price

82902

This height-adjustable bed raises or lowers to a level that makes it easier to glide into or out of bed—even when transferring from a wheelchair, rollator or walker. When you’re ready to get up, you adjust the bed height with the wireless remote control until you can place both feet firmly on the floor. What a great aid to safety and independence! The mattress height adjusts from 28” to 18” and anywhere in between.

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Fitness & Health

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5

Popular spices can reduce appetite, fat By Karen Asp As the mercury drops, what better way to add warmth than by spicing up your favorite cold-weather foods? Apple pie wouldn’t be the same without cinnamon; spicy ginger punches up soups; zippy black pepper jazzes up roasts; and aromatic vanilla adds extra oomph to baked goods. But spices do more than just add flavor. They also serve up unique health benefits.

Pepper and ginger fight fat The most popular spice in the United States may be an ally in your battle against holiday weight gain. A substance in black pepper called piperine may help block the formation of new fat cells, according to a recent study on mice from the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. If you’ve hit the trails or gym a little too hard recently, a sprinkle of cinnamon may help you recover faster. Women who ate about 1 1/2 teaspoons of cinnamon (or ground ginger) every day for six weeks experienced a decrease in muscle soreness brought on by exercise, found research from the International Journal of Preventive Medicine. Although you probably know ginger best as a stomach soother, it may also help you feel fuller and even burn more calories.

When overweight men ate breakfast with ginger “tea” (powdered ginger dissolved in hot water), they felt more satisfied and ate less throughout the day than men who were given the same breakfast with just hot water, said research in the journal Metabolism. Plus, the men who drank ginger tea burned about 40 calories more just digesting their meal.

spray or perfume. EatingWell is a magazine and website devoted to healthy eating as a way of life. On-

Vanilla cuts appetite There’s plenty to love about the flavor that vanilla adds to baked goods. Sniffing that delicious aroma can also help put the brakes on your sweet tooth. Overweight individuals who wore a vanilla-scented patch on the back of their hands for four weeks cut their intake of sweet foods (like sugary drinks and highcalorie desserts) in half, while people in the study who wore a lemon-scented patch or no patch showed no change in eating habits. “Vanilla helps offset the pleasure derived from sweet foods,” said Catherine Collins, R.D., lead study author and principal dietitian with St. Georges Hospital in London. To get a similar effect and to help you avoid overindulging on holiday sweets, light a vanilla-scented candle in your kitchen or wear a vanilla-infused body

Caring places. Healing spaces. Specializing in Skilled Nursing and Subacute Rehabilitation

Bel Pre

2601 Bel Pre Road Silver Spring, MD 20906

301.598.6000

BridgePark

BEACON BITS

Dec. 8

4017 Liberty Heights Avenue Baltimore, MD 21207

CAREGIVING DURING THE HOLIDAYS Fairfax County’s free Family Caregiver Telephone Support Group

410.542.5306

will meet by phone on Tuesday, Dec. 8 from 7 to 8 p.m. This month’s topic is

Ellicott City

“Caregiving During the Holidays.” Learn holiday stress busters and share your

3000 N. Ridge Road Ellicott City, MD 21043

ideas and experiences. For more information or to register, call Michelle Smith at (703) 324-5484 or e-mail Michelle.Smith2@fairfaxcounty.gov.

410.461.7577

Fayette Health

Caring for your aging parent or loved one?

1217 W. Fayette Street Baltimore, MD 21223

410.727.3947

Forestville

7420 Marlboro Pike Forestville, MD 20747

It’s not all up to you. Call us.

301.736.0240

Fort Washington

240-777-3000

MEMBERS OF THE

12021 Livingston Road Ft. Washington, MD 20744

301.292.0300

ADS@ MontgomeryCountyMD.gov

Marley Neck

Aging & Disability Services Mon and Fri: Tue, Wed, & Thur:

8:30am – 5:00pm 8:30am – 7:30pm

A free service of your County Government

Serving with Pride.

800.989.7337 communicarehealth.com

7575 E. Howard Road Glen Burnie, MD 21060

410.768.8200

South River

144 Washington Road Edgewater, MD 21037

410.956.5000

Fitness & Health | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Fitness boxing punches up your exercise When you think of boxing, you may picture greats like Rocky Marciano duking it out with Jersey Joe Walcott. But boxing isn’t just a spectator sport anymore. It’s also a popular way to stay fit among older adults, through a version known as fitness boxing. There’s no getting into a ring or taking any punches, so there’s no risk of head trauma. Instead, fitness boxing has adapted the movements of the sport into exercise routines.

“This kind of boxing has many health benefits, because it constantly requires you to think, change your position, and change your posture,” said physical therapist Linda Arslanian, director of rehabilitation services at Harvard-affiliated Brigham and Women’s hospital. Unlike traditional boxing that requires you to spar with a partner, fitness boxing for older adults involves throwing punches at the air or at a punching bag, usually in a class.

Boxing set to music There are two main types of these exercise classes. In one, you follow a leader and do a series of boxing moves all choreographed to bouncy music, similar to an aerobics class. The moves include a combination of large, sweeping punches (crosses, hooks, uppercuts); smaller punches (jabs); squats (ducks); and short, quick steps forward and back. The other type of exercise class involves strength training, stretching, and hitting a punching bag. Don’t have the strength to stand and do boxing moves? Both types of classes are available for people who wish to remain seated while punching at the air or at a punching bag. There’s no proof that fitness boxing is superior to any other type of exercise, but it does have many health benefits. One is strength. “You’re swinging your arms, moving the muscles of your arms and shoulders, increasing your upper-body strength,” said Arslanian. “And when you’re in the boxer crouch with a wide stance, with your knees slightly bent, you’re strengthening your core muscles, back and legs,” he added. Stronger muscles make it easier to get up out of a chair or carry a bag of groceries.

Excellent aerobic benefits

Closer to Home -

Fitness boxing is also a great aerobic exercise. Aerobic exercise gets your heart pumping, and helps lower the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke and diabetes. It can also strengthen bones and muscles, burn more calories, and lift mood. Furthermore, aerobics can boost your endurance, which helps you climb stairs or walk farther, and is associated with improvement in certain brain functions. Arslanian said boxing in particular is well known for improving eye-hand coordi-

nation, especially if you’re sparring on a bag, hitting padded targets, or even “shadow” boxing. “There are studies that show trying to hit a target with your hands improves eyehand coordination and possibly makes you feel more alert and attentive,” she explained. Better eye-hand coordination may also translate into an easier time picking up a pill or a pen. And one last benefit of fitness boxing, if you are able to stand while doing it: better balance. “You’re changing your position and challenging your balance. The more you do that, the better your balance reaction becomes,” said Arslanian. “If you encounter a crack in the sidewalk, you may be more successful protecting yourself, because your strength and reaction time may have improved.”

Before you start Despite all the benefits, fitness boxing is not for everyone. “I’d say you’d have to be very careful if you have osteoporosis or osteoarthritis of the hands. In that case, you should consider shadow boxing only, and make sure your hands don’t make contact with a target,” said Arslanian. Also, as with any activity that is potentially aerobic, you should check with your physician before starting. If you’re interested in trying this exercise to change up your routine, you’ll likely find classes at health clubs, community centers, or your local YMCA. And if you do sign up for a class, remember to take it slowly. “You’ll want to start at a comfortable level of intensity and gradually increase, and stick with it,” said Arslanian, “It’s not about high intensity. It’s about consistency.” © 2015 President and Fellows of Harvard College. All Rights Reserved. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Please patronize our advertisers.

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Fitness & Health

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5

Games can help connect the generations

Times have changed, but our mission to provide personalized, affordable services and housing to seniors has remained constant. Our care options include Independent Living, Enhanced Living, and Assisted Living services, all under one roof and just a heartbeat away from downtown Silver Spring and the Red Line Metro Station.

Come visit us and see why families have

CEL

T ING 50

1965-2015

E F S ERVIC

ARS

Excellence

A Legacy of Senior Living

In previous columns, I have talked about queens or 50 points (in a 2- or 3-player serious things that seniors and teens can game). You can play a variety of cards, inrelate to and discuss together: school, lack cluding knight, jester and king, to attempt of control, standing up for to win, steal or take a queen. one’s beliefs, terminal illness, employment, retirement, etc. Computer and console games However, teens and seniors can connect through fun activMany games today are played ities, too! A perfect example is on smartphones, computers, games — played by both, and and other types of technology. loved by all. The Wii (pronounced “we”), Many new games are develPlayStation, and Xbox 360 are all oped every year. Some games examples of game consoles. To are more hands-on, while othoperate these, you may use a ers require strategy and logic. GENERATIONS joystick — which has a lever you TOGETHER can rotate to move things on a Four good newer ones By Alexis Bentz computer screen — or a Wii Some creative newer games, control, similar to a TV remote, which are relatively easy to play, include which causes images to move on a TV screen. Blockus, Bop It, Cranium and Sleeping They are both very easy to learn to use. Queens. Some games can sense the motions of Blockus is a strategy game played with your arms and legs. When you “bowl” tiles and a board. The goal of the game is using the Wii, the controller follows your to use your tiles to block your opponent hand movement as you act out bowling (no from getting their tiles to touch your end ball is used). And when you play soccer on of the board before you can reach theirs. Kinect, the screen reflects your own leg’s Bop It is a technological device (in several kicking motion. styles) for those who enjoy using their Both games get you up and moving, so hands. In this game, the device will speak you get some exercise and have fun playverbal commands such as “twist it.” Players ing a game at the same time — right in then have to follow the directions and twist your living room. knobs, pull levers, hit buttons, or speak aloud into the device within a certain num- Old favorites Despite the explosion of new games and ber of seconds. The player who goes longest ways to play, have you noticed that many without making a mistake wins that round. Cranium is a team game where you games still popular today were made chose a card which may ask you a trivia decades ago? Games such as Monopoly, question, a language question, or require Sorry, Scrabble, Life and chess have all you to create or sculpt something out of stood the test of time. Each game is beloved by both kids of the past and kids of today. clay, which can be purchased separately. So the next time you and a younger Sleeping Queens is a card game with its own special deck of 79 cards that all ages friend or grandchild get together, consider can enjoy. The goal of the game is to gain 5 having a game night. You can share games

that you grew up with, and also learn how to play new ones. This is a great way to get to know each other while having fun. I am sure that you will find that, like the

generations, the games have many differences, but still have a lot in common. Alexis Bentz is an 8th grader at Robert Frost Middle School in Rockville, Md.

CONSIDERING HEARING AIDS? Get a free Consumer’s Guide Introduction to: • Hearing Aid Technology • Latest Features • Brand Comparisons

For a free copy call:

301-339-8583 Offered as a community service by

Auditory Services Inc.

9800 Falls Road, Suite 5 • Potomac, MD 20854 1734 Elton Road, Suite 104 • Silver Spring, MD 20903

Happier Days Start Here Get the most important reason to give thanks this holiday season – specialized memory care at Olney Assisted Living. !"#$%&!'()!*#+,--!.('/#(0#01%+(2(+&**/#3%0(4.%3#),"#'5,0%# with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia, giving families +,.2(3%.+%#'5&'#*,6%3#,.%0#%.7,/#'5%#$%0'#1,00($*%#8!&*('/#,)#*()%9 • Four distinct neighborhoods surround a central Neighborhood :8!&"%#&**,;(.4#"%0(3%.'0#',#-,6%#)"%%*/#;('5(.#,!"#%.+*,0%3# community • Private studio residences • Licensed nurse onsite 24-hours a day • Well-balanced meals and snacks based on a Mediterranean diet • Life enrichment programs incorporating meaningful, Montessori-based activities focusing on daily life

CALL 301-570-0525 TODAY FOR A TOUR.

been choosing Springvale Terrace for half a century. Call 301-587-0190 (TRS 711) today.

Senior Living,in the Heart of it All 8505 Springvale Road, Silver Spring, MD 20190 1-800-552-7724 MD RELAY SERVICE SpringvaleTerrace.com

Memory Care

The right perspective on memory care. 16940 Georgia Avenue • Olney, MD 20832 (301) 570-0525 • olneymemorycare.com

Fitness & Health | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Knee replacement surgery vs. therapy By Marilynn Marchione People with knees worn out by arthritis will get more pain relief from joint replacement surgery, but it has more risks and there’s a good chance that less drastic approaches also would help. That’s the bottom line from the first study to strictly test other treatments against knee replacement — an operation done hundreds of thousands of times a year in the U.S. “It’s one of the great operations of the 20th century,” yet good evidence of its ef-

fectiveness has been lacking, said Dr. Jeffrey Katz, a joint specialist at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston. He wrote a commentary that appears with the results in the New England Journal of Medicine, and said the right choice will be different for each patient, depending on goals, overall health, and whether the person wants to have or avoid surgery. More than 670,000 total knee replacements are performed annually in the United States, mostly for arthritis, which dete-

riorates cartilage in the joints.

Weight loss, PT can help Medical experts advise trying other things before considering surgery — such as weight loss, physical therapy, exercise and medicines — as many studies show these can help. But for how long is not known, nor are there good comparisons of side effects. Researchers in Denmark assigned 100 patients to either 12 weeks of non-surgical treatment — physical therapy, exercise, diet advice, special insoles and pain medicine — or surgery followed by 12 weeks of the other treatments. After one year, the surgery group improved twice as much as the others did on scores for pain, activities of daily living, and quality of life. However, two-thirds of those not given surgery still had a meaningful improvement, and only one-fourth of them ended up having surgery within the year. At the same time, complications were more frequent with surgery, including several serious deep vein clots, a fracture and a deep infection. And other studies show that surgery “is not universally successful,” and that 1 in 5 patients still have some pain six months later, Katz wrote.

Only surgery can help some Some viewed the results as a clear victory for surgery. “This certainly adds to the evidence that what we’re doing is effective and improves patients’ quality of life,” said Dr. Joshua Jacobs, a joint surgeon at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago and spokesman for the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Many people get relief with therapy, but will ultimately need surgery when arthritis worsens, he added.

Lynnette Friend, a retired mail carrier, tried joint-lubricating shots before having a knee replaced five years ago. She plans to have the other one done in January. “This time I just went ahead and went for the knee replacement,” she said. “There’s not much that can be done when it really starts to deteriorate.” Kenneth Rose, a retired Chicago police officer, also tried shots before having a knee replaced in 2011. When the other one worsened, he had it replaced in May, and now is able to lose weight and walk a couple miles a day with his wife. “I wish I had done [the surgery] sooner,” he said. “It’s such a pleasure, really. You don’t realize how great it is to be able to go outside and take a walk.”

Consider the trade-offs The results give “convincing” evidence that surgery helps, but that there are trade-offs on risks, said Dr. David C. Goodman at the Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy and Clinical Practice. His advice: • Don’t feel pushed or locked into a choice. Get more than one opinion. And remember you can always choose surgery later if you try something else first. • Consider how well you can handle the disruption of activity and rehabilitation needed after surgery, and how much help you’ll have at home. • Get a clear estimate of what it will cost you. The operation runs $20,000 to $25,000, but research also suggests it saves money because it keeps people working and active and helps prevent other health problems. For more information about the study, see http://bit.ly/knee_replacement_trial. Further advice on joint replacement is at http://bit.ly/joint_replacement_trends. — AP

Just Press Play! If you can’t visit us in person, take a virtual tour! Explore FriendshipTerrace.org and discover all that our community has to offer, including testimonial videos from residents, interviews with our staff, and much more. When you’re ready to stop by, call us at 202-244-7400 (TRS 711) to schedule your in-person visit.

FriendshipTerrace.org

1-800-643-3769 DC RELAY SERVICE • 1-800-643-3768 TTY 4201 Butterworth Place, NW, Washington, DC 20016

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Fitness & Health

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5

reh habil bilita ation at

sim s im mpl p y ply

DDIIIFFFE DIF F REN REN ENT NT

At B Brooke Grov ve Retirement Villaage, we’re known no for f blending nd an ex xtraordinary tr staff t with th a healing envirronment. Our u rehabilitation abilitation b team eam will lll worrk with you y and nd youur fa family a am to achieve ve optimal al recovery ery and d independenc in independence. ncce. c Our state-of-the-art Our f -a t services include: in : • The he A ACP system m of therapeutic he peutic mo odalities da es to accelerrate yourr recovery. • Stroke, jointt and post-surgery rehabilitation tion to strengthen trengthen you you. • Beautiful garden ns, gazebos and woo oded fitneess trails to rejuvenate you. be ecause what ts surroun nds you u really y mat t ters s.

18100 Slade School chool Road Sandy Spring, MD 20860

301-260-2320 or 301-924-2811 www..bgff.org

If you anticipate needing rehab (or are having elective surgery soon), stop by for a tour of our top-notch facilities and meet our team of specialists. IIndependent ndependent l living i ing a assisted ssisted l living i ing Rehabilitation Rehabilitation long-term care memory support

Fitness & Health | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Herpes virus carries killer drug to tumors By Matthew Perrone Federal health officials have approved a first-of-a-kind drug that uses the herpes virus to infiltrate and destroy deadly skin cancer tumors. The Food and Drug Administration approved the injectable drug from Amgen Inc. for patients with hard-to-treat melanoma — the deadliest form of skin cancer, expected to be diagnosed in 74,000 U.S. patients this year. For now, the drug is approved only for melanoma tumors that cannot be removed surgically. The drug, Imlygic (em-LYE’gick), is injected directly into tumor tissue, where it uses herpes as a Trojan horse to slip past and rupture cancer cells. The drug combines a gene snippet meant

to stimulate the immune system with a modified version of the herpes simplex virus — the kind that causes mouth cold sores.

Limited effectiveness Despite the drug’s groundbreaking approach, FDA officials stressed it has not been shown to extend life. Instead, company studies showed that about 16 percent of patients injected with the drug saw their tumors shrink, compared with 2 percent of patients who took more conventional cancer drugs. That effect lasted at least six months. Regulators stressed that Imlygic had no effect on melanoma that had spread to the brain, lungs or other internal organs.

Amgen said patients should be treated with the drug for at least six months, or until there are no more tumors left to treat. The company estimates one course of treatment will cost about $65,000, depending on the length of treatment. Doctors give an initial round of injections, followed by a second dose three weeks later, and then regular injections every two weeks thereafter. The drug — known chemically as talimogene laherparepvec, or T-VEC — divides into copies repeatedly until the membranes, or outer layers, of the cancer cells burst. Meanwhile, the gene snippet churns out a protein to stimulate an immune response to kill melanoma cells in the tumor and elsewhere in the body.

Like other cancer “vaccines” Over the years, scientists have explored altering various viruses, including measles and polio, to combat several types of cancer, including brain tumors, breast cancers and others.

A 2013 review in the journal Molecular Cancer concluded that cancer-fighting viruses armed with genes that stimulate the immune system “are potent therapeutic cancer vaccines.” The FDA has approved a string of new medicines dubbed immunotherapies, or immune-oncology drugs, that harness the body’s immune system to help attack cancer cells. The drugs have brought some of the first significant advances in patient survival in many years for some cancer types, particularly lung cancer and melanoma. Melanoma was long considered one of the toughest cancers to treat, with few drug options available up until a few years ago. But since 2011, the FDA has approved seven new drugs for this form of skin cancer, including Merck & Co.’s Keytruda, and Bristol-Myers Squibb’s Yervoy and Opdivo. All three drugs work by blocking a protein found in certain tumors called PD-1, which inhibits the body’s natural response to cancer cells. — AP

Please patronize our advertisers. They keep the Beacon free!

Knowledge is Power

ASHBY PONDS GREENSPRING RIDERWOOD

Whether Buying or Selling, let Sue guide you in her 55+ Community of Leisure! Let her ENERGY, 25 years of experience, floor plans, contractors, staging, color brochures, visual tours, websites & statistics ELECTRIFY your Real Estate Experience!

Top 1% of Agents Nationwide • Seniors and Relocation Specialist

Where every season is the PERFECT SEASON

Sue Heyman ★ 301-580-5556 Office: 301-681-0550 x115 • Email: sueheyman@aol.com

Retire from winter at an Erickson Living community. We offer a weatherproof senior lifestyle that’s free from maintenance and filled with amenities like a pool, fitness center, and restaurants.

Call 1-800-309-5805 for your FREE brochure!

JUST LISTED! – ELLICOTT GARDEN CONDO 3BR, 2FB, 1st floor w patio, updated table space kitchen, new windows, superb views, all utilities included! $158,000

NEW PRICE! – Regency “Pine Valley” Home Elegant 11-year old home, on corner lot, HOA only. 4BR, 3FB, sunroom addition, HWDs! $695,000

COMING SOON! – Arundel Co-op Townhouse All-brick w/ sunroom + enclosed patio, 2BR, 1.5BA, new carpet, all utilities included in monthly fee! $140,000

COMING SOON!- CAMBRIDGE PATIO HOME 3BR, 2FB, quad, fresh paint, new flooring throughout, patio with storage shed, all utilities included! $159,000 UNDER CONTRACT! – Greens Hi-Rise “E” Fabulous, private balcony view! 2BR, 2FB, appliance, BA, & HVAC updates, mid-way down the hall! $135,000

11089809

JUST SOLD! – Co-op End Townhouse All brick w/ fantastic sunroom, 2BR, 1FB, 2HB, all new carpet, all utilities included in monthly fee. $138,000 JUST SOLD! – Turnberry Hi Rise “B” 2BR, 2FB, table-space kitchen open to separate DR, enclosed balcony, lower floor! $159,000

JUST SOLD! – Villa Cortese “C”+ Garage 2BR, 2FB, manufactured wood floors, enclosed balcony with splendid view! $212,000 JUST SOLD! –Turnberry "G" + Garage 2BR+den, 2FB, upgraded fridge and range, ceramic tile backsplash and master BA, woodlook foyer. $299,000

JUST SOLD! – Overlook “L” + Garage 3BR, 2.5BA, hwds, gourmet kit, 2FP, built-ins, golf course view from balcony & every window! $495,000

Visit www.sueheyman.com and

Get a JOLT out of her VIRTUAL TOURS!

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Fitness & Health

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5

Health Studies Page

THE PLACE TO LOOK FOR INFORMATION ON AREA CLINICAL TRIALS

Can reducing inflammation save lives? By Carol Sorgen The condition known as atherothrombosis is defined by the National Library of Medicine as a complex disease in which cholesterol deposits and the formation of blood clots play a significant part. When those deposits or blood clots rupture or break away from artery walls, serious and fatal complications can occur, including heart attack and sudden cardiac death. It is known that inflammation contributes to atherothrombosis, but not yet proven whether the prevention or reduction of inflammation itself will reduce the number of cardiovascular events in those with the condition. Hence, a study is underway — the Cardiovascular Inflammation Reduction Trial (CIRT) — to investigate whether taking a low dose of the drug methotrexate will reduce rates of heart attack, stroke and cardiovascular death among patients with type 2 diabetes or metabolic syndrome who have already had a heart attack or multiple coronary blockages. Both conditions are associated with an enhanced proinflammatory response. Methotrexate is currently used to treat

rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis, as well as several kinds of cancer, including cancer of the blood, bone, lung, breast, head or neck. Investigators hope that if the study is successful and methotrexate is shown both to reduce inflammation and lower the risk of cardiac events and death, new directions for cardiovascular treatment can be developed. The trial is funded by the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute and the National Institutes of Health, and is being undertaken at more than 400 sites nationwide, including several in the Washington area.

Taking part in the study Participants in the trial must be older than 18, have a documented past history of a heart attack or evidence of multi-vessel coronary artery disease diagnosed by angiography, as well as a history of type 2 diabetes or metabolic syndrome at the time of study enrollment. Patients cannot take part if they have a history of certain diseases — including tuberculosis, chronic hepatitis B or C, bronchiectasis or pulmonary fibrosis,

e om c l We Fall %

% %

at Chesterbrook % % Residences

There’s no better time to make the move to Chesterbrook Residences. Our residents enjoy great services and amenities in the fall and all year long! 24/7 licensed nurses on-site • Affordable monthly leases • Delicious, chef-prepared meals • Gazebo and outdoor gardens • Fun, engaging activities and trips

!"#$%&'#!%"(')*%+,!-*!#(#''.%/!-01!$2!-3 Call 703-531-0781 today to schedule your personal visit.

!!"!#$%&'"(")*&+,--.)"#/

2030 Westmoreland Street • Falls Church www.chesterbrookres.org !!"#$%&'(#)*("+$,(-).&%&/(0(%'1)2%,3)4)5"!6(--$!%&7).&%&/(0(%')!6)8('$"(0(%') !009%$'$(-)-$%,():;<:

chronic liver disease, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease. Participants will be randomly assigned to their usual care plus a once-a-week methotrexate (in a dose within the range of that commonly used for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis), or their usual care plus a once-a-week placebo (a similar-looking pill but with inactive ingredients). All study participants will additionally receive 1 mg. of folic acid (a form of B vitamin) to be taken daily six days per week.

Patients will continue in the study for three to four years, depending on their cardiovascular health. Locally, George Washington University Hospital in Washington, D.C.; Washington Adventist Hospital in Takoma Park, Md.; and Virginia Cardiovascular Associates in Manassas, Va., are participating in the study. Compensation for time and travel is offered, and varies by study location. For more information, call (855) 4379330 and refer to ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT01594333.

General and Cosmetic Dentistry • Senior Citizen Discount Available • We use ‘Low Radiation Digital X-Rays’ • Aesthetic Crowns, Implants, Bridges • Natural-looking Dentures, Partials, no adhesives needed

Judy Jo Oh, D.D.S. (UCLA School of Dentistry, 1992) 4607 Connecticut Ave., N.W. #109, Washington, D.C. 20008 (Within 4 Blocks North of Van Ness/UDC Red Line Metro Station)

202-244-2212 • 301-300-7579 www.judyohdds.com

Fitness & Health | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Genetic tester returns with FDA approval By Matthew Perrone Genetic testing company 23andMe is reintroducing some health screening tools that federal regulators forced off the market more than two years ago, due to concerns about their accuracy and interpretation by customers. The Google-backed company said it will again offer 35 tests that tell users whether they carry genetic mutations for rare diseases like cystic fibrosis, which can be passed from parents to children. The relaunch comes as the Silicon Valley company works to mend its relationship with the Food and Drug Administration and medical experts who have criticized the company’s direct-to-consumer

approach. FDA officials ordered 23andMe to stop selling its health-related tests in 2013, saying they required federal review. The agency signed off on the returning tests earlier this year. CEO Anne Wojcicki said 23andMe submitted studies to the FDA showing that users can understand genetic test results without the aid of a doctor or health counselor. “Today we’ve successfully established a framework for working with the FDA to bring back reports directly to the consumer,” Wojcicki said in an interview. “And we’ll continue to work to try and bring all of this information back.”

Risk reports still forbidden The relaunch is a partial victory for the Mountain View, California-based company, but not a total comeback. 23andMe still cannot offer more than 250 risk reports included in its original product, which purported to tell users if they were likely to develop diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Those reports and others related to drug reactions remain unavailable in the U.S. More than 1 million people have used the company’s saliva-based test kit, a small plastic tube that customers fill with spit and return to the company for processing. About 80 percent of those customers have authorized the company to sell their data to drugmakers and academics for research purposes. 23andMe’s current service mainly provides information about family history and ancestry, which is not regulated by the FDA. The company competes with the website Ancestry.com, which offers similar information based on DNA analysis.

More features, but price doubles As part of the relaunch, 23andMe is highlighting a re-designed website that offers customers new tools to understand their genetic code and compare it to family

members. The website also provides links to speak with a genetic counselor about the results. New customers will pay more for the updated 23andMe experience. The company will charge $199 per person, up from $99. “We took a lot of the feedback that we’d gotten over the last seven years and then incorporated that with all the FDA feedback into a whole new report format,” Wojcicki said. The company plans TV and radio ads to promote the relaunch. Older 23andMe customers will be gradually transitioned to the new website in coming months. 23andMe launched in 2006 amid a flurry of publicity and celebrity endorsements, promoting its test kit as an affordable way to peek into one’s genetic code. But the company’s aggressive marketing and questionable science attracted scrutiny from experts. Since 2013, Wojcicki has hired a number of new executives with experience in the pharmaceutical and medical testing industries. Wojcicki is divorced from ex-husband Sergey Brin, co-founder of Google. Both Google and Brin invested millions in 23andMe, which is privately held. — AP

BEACON BITS

Dec. 9

MEDICATE WITH EXERCISE The Bone Builders Program presents “Exercise is Medicine,” a free

presentation, on Wednesday, Dec. 9 from 1 to 2:30 p.m. at the Holiday Park Senior Center. Karen Thomas will discuss the health benefits of exercise and how to exercise safely. A Q&A will follow. No registration required. The center is located at 3950 Ferrara Dr. in Wheaton, Md. For more information, call (240) 777-6534.

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Fitness & Health

Live longer: Salads feed your telomeres By Suzy Cohen Do you ever wonder why some people are blessed with long lives compared to others? Without going into numerous philosophical, sociological and spiritual questions, there is a very interesting part of your body that provides insight into longevity. It’s called a telomere. Research suggests these telomeres, which cap the end of our DNA, impact how fast we age. Think of telomeres like the plastic tip on the end of shoe laces. And think of the laces as strands of DNA with all your chromosomes. Each time your cell divides, a little bit of the telomere cap is lost. Over time, your telomere shortens. It’s supposed to — that is completely normal. Your cells are supposed to divide a fixed number of times before dying. [Editor’s Note: What makes cancer cells destructive is that they don’t stop dividing, and instead multiply uncontrollably.] If your telomeres are healthy and long to begin with, the strand of chromosomes is protected through each cell division. Once cell division has maxed out its number of times to divide, and the telomere length runs out, then cell health breaks down and problems occur. This is known as the Hayflick Phenomenon, which refers to the number of times a cell divides until it dies. It correlates with

lifespan, and telomeres play an important role. Researchers have been studying these telomeres for some time, and they have known that critically short telomeres cause chromosome instability. Recent research sheds additional insight. Long-damaged and dysfunctional telomeres also cause chromosome instability that eventually leads to cell death. So, if you have a sick cell that really needs to go, I’m not for repairing the telomere with supplements.

Telomeres need nutrients The fascinating practical piece of information for us is how scientists just discovered that critical nutrients are needed for healthy telomeres. In cell studies, researchers found dysfunctional short and long telomeres more frequently in cells with insufficient folate and thus, reduced methylation. In this particular study, the lack of folate damaged the telomere cap; they were frayed and ‘beat up’ leaving an open door to the chromosomal material. Now remember, without healthy telomeres, your DNA gets damaged. Before leaving folate and moving on to B12, I want to make one more comment. Folate is the natural form of the B vitamin you think of when you hear “folic acid”

(which is made synthetically). But folate and “folic acid” are not exactly the same. The folate form (found in foods) is critical for methylation. Human studies have confirmed that vitamin B12 is also required for healthy telomeres. A recent study published in the European Journal of Nutrition studied telomeres from 60 elderly people. They compared supplement intake with vitamin B6, B12, folate, calcium and vitamin D, versus just vitamin D and calcium. Then they measured homocysteine levels. After a year, they found that individuals who had both elevated homocysteine and reduced B vitamin intake also had reduced methylation and shorter telomeres. This

group was literally aging faster. There are very expensive supplements which claim to support telomere health, but I suggest these two natural B vitamins — folate and B12 — to improve detoxification. You can get them – without the side effects — from eating a salad every day! You can also supplement B12 and folic acid. But start low and go slow — noting reactions or improvement. This information is opinion only. It is not intended to treat, cure or diagnose your condition. Consult with your doctor before using any new drug or supplement. Suzy Cohen is a registered pharmacist and the author of The 24-Hour Pharmacist and Real Solutions from Head to Toe. To contact her, visit www.SuzyCohen.com.

Keep Living Tribute at Heritage Village in Gainesville is Assisted Living Like You’ve Never Seen Before!TM Have you ever thought of assisted living as place for seniors to grow? A place for them to enjoy pursuing passions and improving their wellness? We do, and that's why Tribute at Heritage Village is not like ordinary assisted living and memory care communities. It’s a safe place of detailed care where seniors can be social, stay physically and mentally active, and aspire to new goals. Here, residents can have CONNECTED, ACTIVE, and PURPOSEFUL lives while enjoying the accurate and accountable care of senior care professionals.

Welcome Center Now Open Suites are limited

He at hc ot eD r

r. tD un H e ag rit He

13650 Heathcote Boulevard Gainesville, Virginia 20155

703-468-1475 TributeAtHeritageVillage.com

I-66 W to exit 43 B Hello@TributeAtHeritageVillage.com

Fitness & Health | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Questions on sprouted grains and spices and absorbability of dietary fiber as well as some nutrients, including vitamin C and several B vitamins (including all-important folate). Grain products normally only contain small amounts of vitamin C. Also, in sprouted grains, enzymes are activated that break down a compound in whole grains called phytic acid. Since phytic acid can tie up iron, this means that more iron from the whole grains and other plant foods eaten at the same time may be better absorbed. However, research supporting nutritional benefits is not as established as some headlines may make it seem. Health benefits that headlines tie to sprouted grains are often referring to studies in rats and mice, or short-term studies of less than 20

N IOR OW IT Y ACC RE EPT SE IN RV G AT ION S

Q: I keep hearing about “sprouted grains.” What are they and what’s all the fuss about? A: Sprouted grains are whole grains that are soaked and then put under controlled conditions until the heat and moisture prompt development of a small sprout. The wet sprouted grains can then be puréed and used to make bread or other grain products. The sprouted grains can also be dried for use as a cooked grain (just as you would cook rice) or ground into sprouted grain flour. Many different types of whole grains are available as sprouted grains, including brown rice, wheat, millet and buckwheat. Much of the interest in sprouted grains involves potential for an increased amount

people eating sprouted grains in multiple cumin and dill seeds, whole cloves, cinnaservings every day. mon sticks and peppercorns) staying fresh And some studies compare for three or four years. Ground sprouted grains to refined spices (including cinnamon grains, which could reflect the and ground pepper) stay flawell-established greater healthvorful for one to three years. fulness of whole grains in genHold onto dried green herbs eral compared to refined grains (such as basil and oregano) for (like white bread and white six months to three years, rice). watching for fading color and If you want to try sprouted flavor to guide you. whole grains, they have potenAlthough these seasonings tial to offer extra nutritional may look attractive displayed NUTRITION benefits. Nevertheless, if you WISE over the stove, exposure to are choosing whole grains and By Karen Collins, heat and moisture can make them lose flavor faster. Ineating a wide variety of plant MS, RD, CDM stead, store them in airtight foods, those are the most important steps for getting bountiful nutri- containers away from the heat, moisture and light that speed up their deterioration. ents and protective compounds. Note: Raw, uncooked sprouts can pose If you have room in a cabinet or drawer, food safety concerns, and the Food and that is the ideal way to store them. Drug Administration recommends that chilAlthough research is growing on the podren, the elderly, pregnant women and per- tential of herbs and spices as sources of sons with weakened immune systems avoid health-protective phytochemicals, it’s not eating raw sprouts. Learn more at www.food- clear how content changes during storage. safety.gov/keep/types/fruits/sprouts.html. For now, it looks like these shelf life recQ: How long do jars of spices and ommendations are advisable to maintain potential health benefits as well as flavor. dried herbs last? Courtesy of the American Institute for A: Spices and dried herbs do not spoil, but eventually they do lose some of their fla- Cancer Research. Questions may be sent to vor. Stored as recommended, you can usual- “Nutrition Wise,” 1759 R St., N.W. Washly count on seeds and whole spices (such as ington, D.C. 20009.

VINSON HALL RETIREMENT COMMUNITY Only the best for your loved ones...

Waltonwood Ashburn As your family gathers this holiday season, you may notice changes in your aging loved ones. If you’re concerned about their ability to live alone, or if they could benefit from increased social opportunities, we encourage you to take advantage of this time and visit Waltonwood Ashburn.

d2 1 an m oo bedr ents m t r apa able avail

Our on-site Information Center is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and evenings and weekends by appointment.

Call and schedule a personal tour today!

Vinson Hall Retirement Community is located in idyllic McLean, VA

(571) 982-6318

and offers !"#$%$"#$"& '$(!#$"&!)* *!+!", -.' /!*!&)'0 .-12$'(3 their immediate family, and select government employees of equal rank.

Independent Living, Assisted Living and Memory Care

A SHBURN

44141 Russell Branch Pkwy. Ashburn, VA 20147

The Information Center is located on Russell Branch Pkwy., near the intersection of Ashburn Village Blvd. and Russell Branch Pkwy. Just look for our white and green Waltonwood Bus!

www.facebook.com/waltonwoodseniorliving

www.Waltonwood.com

Our apartment residences offer all the luxurious comforts of home within a vibrant Life Plan Community. Arleigh Burke Pavilion Assisted Living and The Sylvestery Memory Care Assisted Living !"#!$"%&'()%&"*)+)$,%-",./+),$)!#0

V INSON H ALL R ETIREMENT C OMMUNITY supported by Navy Marine Coast Guard Residence Foundation

6251 Old Dominion Drive, McLean, VA 22101 Please Visit Us at www.vinsonhall.org

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Fitness & Health

A yummy, healthy meal in a sandwich By Dana Jacobi The holidays are time for formal feasting and also for sharing casual bites. Sandwiches are a favorite, perhaps to set out as family and friends are gathering or while trimming the tree. One of my favorite sandwiches updates a California classic. The original was a combination of cheese, avocado, tomato, alfalfa sprouts and mayo on hearty, whole-wheat sandwich bread. Variations appear all over social media, adding hummus, toasting the bread, skipping the sprouts, and more. My stacked-high version calls for artisanal whole-wheat bread that is light-textured inside and produces sandwich-size slices — a round boule loaf is ideal. Avocado replaces mayo. Toasted bread quickly topped with finely shredded cheese that melts on the hot bread adds sensory contrast. But sweet potato is the big surprise. Slices of sweet potato roast in 15 minutes. They add a creamy, luxurious layer that harmonizes lusciously with the avocado, sharp arugula and pungent onion. Full confession: This is a come-and-get-it

sandwich that should be eaten freshly made. But it can be mostly prepared ahead. The bread and onions can be sliced, the cheese shredded, and sweet potato roasted a few hours before the meal. Then assembly is quick: toast the bread, add the cheese, layer on the veggies, smash the avocado — and the sandwich is ready to serve. I sometimes do “cheat” by using a leftover baked sweet potato. Although the result is dryer, this lets me make just one or two sandwiches — a treat to share or enjoy during quiet time alone.

1/2 medium avocado, sliced Olive oil cooking spray Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Coat baking sheet with cooking spray. Cut sweet potato in ¼-inch slices. Place sweet potato slices on prepared baking sheet. Roast for 15 minutes, until slices are just tender. Using wide spatula, transfer slices to wire rack and let cool. Meanwhile, lightly toast bread. Place 1 slice on each of two plates. Immediately cover hot toast with cheese. Top with 2

slices sweet potato, 2 slices onion, 2 slices tomato and half the arugula. Save remaining sweet potato for later use. On remaining bread slices, use fork to mash and spread avocado. Close sandwich, placing avocado side down. With serrated knife, cut sandwiches diagonally in half. Makes 2 servings. Per serving: 345 calories, 15 g. total fat (5 g. saturated fat), 40 g. carbohydrate,16 g. protein, 9 g. dietary fiber, 483 mg. sodium. — American Institute for Cancer Research

Pepper Jack, Sweet Potato and Avocado Sandwich 1 chubby, orange-fleshed sweet potato, peeled 4 (1/2-inch) slices rustic whole-wheat Italian bread 2 oz. Pepper Jack cheese, thinly sliced or shredded (preferably reduced fat) 4 thin slices red onion 4 (1/2-inch) slices tomato 1/2 cup baby arugula

Tell them you saw it in the Beacon!

• Eye Care for All Ages • Specialists in Cataracts, Glaucoma, Diabetic Retinopathy and Macular Degeneration • Contact Lens Specialists • LASIK - Laser Vision Correction • Plastic & Reconstructive Eye Surgery

Full In-House Optical Department Outpatient No-Stitch Cataract Surgery • Laser Surgery MEDICARE ASSIGNMENT ACCEPTED LENARD H. HAMMER, M.D., F.A.C.S. GORDON LUI, M.D. SCOTT B. BECKER, M.D. MEDICARE EYE EXAMS

BRIAN J. WINTER, M.D. CRISTINA F. ROUILLER, O.D. VANESSA LIMA, M.D.

301-774-2750

3402 Olandwood Ct., Olney, MD

Fitness & Health | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Advice for negotiating family boundaries Dear Solutions: Because of finances, I have to move in with my children. They’ve made a separate space for me, telling me I’m part of the family, and I should look at it as our home. I’m very nervous, even though I get along well with my daughter, son-in-law and children. I was very independent, and I’m not sure how to make this work. I never thought this hour would arrive. Any advice? — Evelyn Dear Evelyn: The hour may have arrived, but the “our” has to leave! Be very clear. It’s not “our” home — it’s theirs. It’s not “our” car

— it’s theirs. It’s not “our” party, so don’t join in unless invited. And this above all: it’s not “our” argument — it’s theirs, and you should stay away. If you give each other space and privacy, it will relieve everyone’s anxiety, and they won’t go around mumbling “guess who came to dinner (and lunch and breakfast).” Make dinner sometimes, invite the children into your space for TV or homework, and make this a love-in instead of just a live-in. Dear Solutions: When I visit my son, I see my 11-yearold grandson getting into arguments with his father a lot. He gets very frustrated, storms off to his room, slams the

You Deserve It All And you’ll find it at Potomac Place! “The people at Potomac Place are the nicest people. They always greet you with a smile or a hug.” Dorothea Alexander {resident since 2012}

Call 703-494-3817 today. PotomacPlace.com

2133 Montgomery Ave., Woodbridge

Coordinated Services Management, Inc. - Professional Management of Retirement Communities since 1981

I’m beginning to get a bad feeling door and doesn’t come out. I worry that at his age he might do all from her husband, though. He doesn’t say anything, but I can sort sorts of things if he has no of feel his annoyance. He’s place to let out his frustraacting very cold to me. tions. I want to tell him that I’ve been giving her gifts when he’s feeling bad he can because she has such a call me, and we can talk warm heart. Do you think about what’s bothering him. I should explain to him My wife thinks this is a bad that I’m not after his wife? idea and would lead to family What am I doing wrong? arguments. Your thoughts? — Tom — Bernard Dear Tom: Dear Bernard: His cold shoulder must take Sounds like a grand idea from SOLUTIONS precedence over her warm a grandpa. Eleven-year-olds can By Helen Oxenberg, heart! Cool it. It feels flattering certainly use loving support — MSW, ACSW after all, what’s a grandpa for? to you that she pays attention, However, your wife is not entirely wrong, and it feels flattering to her that you give so be careful. You must check this out with her gifts. But it obviously feels threatening your son and daughter-in-law first. You must to him. also be very clear to all concerned that you What are you “doing wrong”? You’re won’t usurp the parents’ authority. around all day, and he’s not. That’s enough. So be there for him, but be careful. Make Start looking elsewhere for (single) sure you’re a mediator, not a meddler. women friends. I assure you there are Dear Solutions: many who also have warm hearts and are My wife died recently, and my next willing, even eager, to share. door neighbor has been very kind. I’m © Helen Oxenberg, 2015. Questions to be retired and home all day and so is considered for this column may be sent to: The Beacon, P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, she, but her husband is still working. Because she’s been so kind to me, MD 20915. You may also email the author listening when I need to talk and every- at helox72@comcast.net. To inquire about reprint rights, call (609) 655-3684. thing, I’ve gotten her a few small gifts.

“Shouldn’t my rehabilitation program help me reach my potential?” After an illness, injury or surgery, you need someone by your side more than ever—a team of professional caregivers whose sole mission is to help you return to the life you love most. You tell us your rehabilitation goals, and we’ll partner with you to create a holistic wellness plan that is tailored to you.

INFORMAT TION CALL

301-354-4600

Whether you want to get back to golf, gardening or the grandkids, we can help you do that confidently, efficiently and comfortably.

• Speech Therapy • Occupational Therapy • Physical Therapy

9701 Veirs Drive | Rockville, MD 20850 | 301-354-4600 | www.mypotentialrehab.org The Village at Rockville is sponsored by National Lutheran Communities & Services, a faith-based, not-for-profit ministry of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, serving people of all beliefs.

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5

Celebrating 40 Years

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA OFFICE ON AGING

Spotlight On Aging VOLUME XXVI, ISSUE 12

A newsletter for D.C. Seniors

INTERIM EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR'S MESSAGE By Laura Newland Interim Director, D.C. Office on Aging I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving! Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday because it’s a dedicated time for gratitude. This year I was especially grateful and humbled to have become part of the D.C. Office on Aging’s family. Mayor Muriel Bowser asked me in early November if I would be the agency’s Interim Director. Having worked with DCOA first as a liaison in the Deputy Mayor’s office and then as Interim General Counsel, I am intimately familiar with the agency and the community we serve. Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Brenda Donald — who served as Interim Director for several months this year — returned to her full-time duties as Deputy Mayor. But she remains committed to DCOA’s mission and continues to be one of the agency’s strongest supporters. When I was an attorney at AARP Legal Counsel for the Elderly (LCE), I represented older homeowners who became delinquent on their real property taxes and were at risk of losing their homes through real property tax foreclosure. None of my clients ever lost their homes to tax sale, but that experience pushed me to look for systemic changes. During my time at LCE, I recruited pro bono partners and community stakeholders to push the District to change the real property tax law so we could better protect our long-time District residents. I am happy to say that sweeping changes were made and imple-

mented last year, and the Deputy Mayor’s office works closely with the tax office to ensure that homeowners have every opportunity to protect themselves from losing their homes due to unpaid taxes. I joined the District government to continue the systems reform work, but from the inside. Over the past year and a half, I have worked with District agencies in making our long-term care services and supports system better, and I continue to be impressed with the dedication and passion of District government employees. Serving as Interim Director of DCOA is a great opportunity for me to continue implementing the Mayor’s vision for DCOA. Mayor Bowser is committed to building an age-friendly city where all residents can thrive. As you may have heard me say at our senior wellness centers, we are committed to listening to you. We want to truly understand your needs, wants, and hopes — now and in the future. We will continue providing the core services you have come to expect, but we also want to hear from you about how we can better serve you where you live, work and play. We want to make sure that DCOA connects with you — no matter where you live in the District. My professional roots are in advocacy, and I look forward to continuing my advocacy for older adults and people with disabilities in the District of Columbia as DCOA’s Interim Director. The See DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE, page 32

December 2015

Intergenerational Housing Opens Mayor Muriel Bowser and senior members of her Administration, along with partners at Mi Casa, Inc. and Generations of Hope, celebrated the opening of Genesis — an affordable intergenerational housing community in which service-minded seniors and young families with children transitioning out of foster Mayor Bowser presents Bonnie Duffy-Page with a ceremocare live as neighbors. nial key during the “Welcome Home” activities at Genesis. Based on an awardwinning model, Genesis nerable populations and transformis a 27-unit affordable building ing the District into an Age-Friendly where residents mutually support City, where residents of all ages are one another by meeting specific re- able to grow up and grow older in diquirements for community participa- verse, intergenerational, and suption and service. portive communities. The opening of Genesis under“I have a lot of life, a lot of energy still scores the Mayor’s commitment to to give,” said Bonnie Duffy-Page, one combating homelessness among vul- of the new senior residents.

It’s been four years since the opening of the Hayes Senior Wellness Center, located at 500 K St. NE. For many seniors, Hayes has become a second home, and the recent anniversary celebration felt more like a birthday party for a dear friend. The event held outside, like a backyard barbeque, featured food on the grill with healthy options, exercise, and music provided by the Sandra Y. Johnson Band. If you haven’t already done so, stop by and take a look at what they have to offer.

D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

D.C. OFFICE

AGING NEWSLETTER

Learn About Age-Friendly DC Progress Come to your nearest DC library to learn about the Age-Friendly DC 2015 Progress Report, and what you can do to help transform DC into a city where it’s easier to grow up and older. The Age-Friendly DC 2015 Progress Report is now available. Ask your librarian for a copy. This report highlights some of the age-friendly work happening in DC, and ways to get involved. You will want to spread the word about Age-Friendly DC to your friends, family and community. The Age-Friendly DC plan includes 75 strategies that DC agencies are implementing with support from community partners to make life easier for residents of all ages. The strategies are

based on listening to DC residents, particularly those 50+ years old. Don’t miss these opportunities to ask questions and get involved:

Age-Friendly DC Library Presentations

12/1 – 10 a.m. – Cleveland Park 3310 Connecticut Ave. NW 12/2 – 4 p.m. – Northeast 330 7th St. NE 12/3 – 2 p.m. – Northwest One 155 L St. NW 12/4 – 10 a.m. – Dorothy I. Height/Benning 3935 Benning Rd. NE

12/7 – noon – Southeast 403 7th St. SE 12/8 – 1 p.m. – Takoma Park 416 Cedar St. NW 12/9 – 10 a.m. – Mount Pleasant 3160 16 St. NW 12/11 – 10 a.m. – Georgetown 3260 R St. NW 12/14 – 10 a.m. – Southwest 900 Wesley Place SW 12/15 – 1 p.m. – Francis Gregory 3660 Alabama Ave. SE 12/16 – 4 p.m. – Petworth 4200 Kansas Ave. NW

Director’s message From page 31

FACT SHEET •

BenefitsCheckUp® is the most comprehensive, Web-based service of its kind in the nation that screens for benefits programs for seniors with limited income and resources.

•

BenefitsCheckUp® screens for more than 2,000 public and private benefits programs, from all 50 states and the District of Columbia.

•

More than 4 million people have been successfully screened through individual or agency use of BenefitsCheckUp®.

•

BenefitsCheckUp® screens for programs that can help with the cost of prescription drugs, heating bills, housing and rent, food, legal services, medical costs, in-home services, tax relief, Veterans benefits, employment, and volunteer opportunities.

•

Screenings are confidential. Users are not required to enter their name, address, phone number, or any other personally identifiable information.

•

Reports can be printed that describe each benefit a person has been found potentially eligible for, including information on where to apply locally and documentation required.

•

More than 1,400 downloadable application forms are available for benefits programs. Users can also apply online for the Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage (Part D) Low Income Subsidy (LIS/Extra Help).

DCOA team is staffed with hard-working, creative and passionate people. Please continue holding us to the highest standard — I know we are up to the challenge. And stay tuned: We’re going to be announcing the beginning of a really fantastic grants program, for up to $10,000 for accessible modifications to your home or apartment, in January. As we begin the holiday season, please remember to check in on loved ones and neighbors who may be isolated and want fellowship or need assistance. Have a joyous and safe New Year!

About the National Council on Aging The National Council on Aging is a nonprofit service and advocacy organization headquartered in Crystal City, Virginia. NCOA is a national voice for millions of older adults-especially those who are vulnerable and disadvantaged-and the community organizations that serve them. NCOA works with thousands of organizations across the country to help seniors find jobs and benefits, improve their health, live independently, and remain active in their communities.

www.BenefitsCheckUp.org/dcoa

Seniors from the Bernice Fonteneau Senior Wellness Center took advantage of a recent beautiful fall day in Rock Creek Park. The group named itself the BFSWC Rangers, and will make hiking an activity to demonstrate that they are “older and bolder,” as they say. The Rangers started at Miller’s Cabin in the park and hiked along a trail, chaperoned by the BFSWC fitness instructor Deborah Parker. The Bernice Fonteneau Senior Wellness Center is located at 3531 Georgia Ave. NW. Stop by or call them at 202-727-0338.

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5

D.C. OFFICE

AGING NEWSLETTER

The District of Columbia Makes its Mark at the Ms. Senior America Pageant A deluxe motorcoach full of fans and many others travelled from the District of Columbia to the Ms. Senior America Pageant in Atlantic City, N.J. to support Ms. Senior D.C. Wendy Bridges as she competed with 34 women from across the country. This year, the ladies were also joined by three women from the United Kingdom who competed for the title of Ms. Senior United Kingdom and another new title, Ms. Senior Transatlantic. The pageant was held at the Super Star Theatre at Resorts Hotel on the boardwalk. Ms. Senior D.C. didn’t disappoint. She was articulate and poised as she introduced herself as the representative of the District of Columbia. All of the contestants performed the opening number to Whitney Houston’s “I’m Every Woman,” all dressed in black. Bridges, a former majorette and avid dancer, was in step with all of her fellow contestants. During the evening gown competi-

tion, Bridges was dressed in an elegant white satin gown with silk chiffon overlay, one shoulder adorned with embroidered lace and Swarovski crystals. While describing her philosophy of life, Bridges eloquently shared that she was a lifelong learner. For her talent presentation, dressed in the red fringe of a flapper, Bridges danced to a medley of songs, sharing with the audience that she loved being a girl and she feels good. Dr. Barbara Mauldin, from Mississippi, was crowned Ms. Senior America. Mauldin is the 35th winner of the contest, which crowns a woman who has reached the “Age of Elegance” — 60 or older. The Mississippi dentist creatively performed a ballroom dance with a jacket during the talent contest, and wore a beautiful sequined mint green mermaid skirt gown during the evening gown segment of the contest. The new Ms. Senior America has volunteered her dental expertise in Peru, Nicaragua and Honduras, as well as at home over the years.

Ms. Senior D.C. Wendy Bridges performs with other contestants during the opening number of the Ms. Senior America Pageant 2015.

Transatlantic contest Debbi Miller, a resident of Northern Virginia who was representing her home state of New Mexico during the contest, was crowned Ms. Transatlantic 2016 by a celebrity panel of judges. Miller was also awarded the top Talent Award from among the 13 finalists from the United States and the United Kingdom in a new BBC International contest. Miller has sung 16 opera roles, including a world premiere, as well as sacred music, barbershop and Broadway.

Sandra Bears, Ms. Senior D.C. 2005, after her performance of "At Last" during the Ms. Senior America Pageant Showcase.

Ms. Senior D.C. Wendy Bridges takes a moment after the pageant with Ms. Senior America Barbara Mauldin.

See MS. SENIOR AMERICA, page 33

Ms. Senior D.C. recites her philosophy during the Evening Gown and Philosophy of Life segment of the competition.

The MC Steppers dance to "Living in America."

Ms. Senior D.C. Wendy Bridges is shown with Fourth Runner-Up Sherri McGhie, Ms. New Jersey Senior America, Ms. New York Senior America CJ Marie and Ms. Virginia Senior America Janis Thomas at the Cameo Dinner Dance and Ball.

D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

D.C. OFFICE

AGING NEWSLETTER

Community Calendar December 2nd, 7th, 16th • 11 a.m. Seabury Ward 5 Resources for Aging will host an AIDS Awareness Presentation by Terrific Inc. at three locations: Dec. 2, Gettysburg Apartments, 2855 Bladensburg Rd. NE; Dec. 7, Edgewood Terrace Apartments, 635 Edgewood St. NE; and Dec. 16, Delta Towers, 1400 Florida Ave. NE. For more information, call Norma Hardie at 202529-8701.

8th • 11 a.m. Learn more about AARP’s Legal Counseling for the Elderly services at Vicksburg – Ft. Lincoln 4, 3005 Bladensburg Rd. NE. For more information, call Norma Hardie at 202-5298701.

9th • 3 to 5 p.m. Seabury Ward 5 Resources for Aging holds its holiday open house at the center for the Blind and Visually Impaired, 2900 Newton St. NE. For more information, call Norma Hardie at 202-5298701.

7th • 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Hattie Holmes Senior Wellness Center will hold a Community Health, Wellness and Informational Fair. The center is located at 324 Kennedy St. NW. For more information, call 202291-6170.

7th • 11 a.m. Medstar will hold a Medicare seminar at Petersburg (Ft. Lincoln III), 3298 Ft. Lincoln Dr. NE. For more information, call Norma Hardie at 202529-8701.

Ms. Senior America From page 33

Her special interests include teaching voice and piano, and participating in Jazzercise, softball, yoga, riding horses, playing bridge, gardening and travel. Miller’s volunteer work includes supporting Retired and Senior Volunteer Programs and Feed the Homeless. Ms. Senior United Kingdom Pat Watts, from Hove, England, was also crowned a winner. She entertained the audience with a comedic monologue on how to be fashionable at the age of 85.

9th, 16th, 23rd, 30th • 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. “It’s OK to be Older — Self Empowerment for Older Adults in the LGBT Community” is a new interactive course at Iona Senior Services in partnership with Whitman Walker to help prepare older LGBT adults to effectively navigate the unique challenges and opportunities of aging. The classes meet for four Wednesdays from Dec. 9 to 30. The course fee is $85, and scholarships are available. Iona is at 4125

Rita Wood, from Chelmsford, England, was named 1st runner-up, and Lynne Bennett, from Milton Keynes, England, was selected as 2nd runner-up.

Hometown entertainment For the first time, the District’s own MC Steppers danced on the Ms. Senior America Pageant stage during the pageant’s showcase. The group, dressed in various forms of the American flag, white pants and sailor hats, performed a lively dance number to the song made popular by James Brown, “Living in America.”

SPOTLIGHT ON AGING Spotlight On Aging is published by the Information Office of the D.C. Office on Aging for D.C. senior residents. Advertising contained in the Beacon is not endorsed by the D.C. Office on Aging or by the publisher.

500 K St. N.E., Washington, D.C. 20002 202-724-5622 • www.dcoa.dc.gov Interim Director Laura Newland Editor Darlene Nowlin Photographer Selma Dillard The D.C. Office on Aging does not discriminate against anyone based on

actual or perceived: race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, familial status, family responsibilities, matriculation, political affiliation, disability, source of income, and place of residence or business. Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination which is prohibited by the Act. In addition, harassment based on any of the above protected categories is prohibited by the Act. Discrimination in violation of the Act will not be tolerated. Violators will be subjected to disciplinary action.

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

Albemarle St. NW. For more information or to register, contact Emily Lootens at elootens@iona.org or 202895-9420.

14th • 7 p.m.

The D.C. Office on Aging will provide an informational table on its resources and services at the Supreme Court 2015 Health and Wellness Fair, 1 First St. NW. For more information, call Alice Thompson at 202-535-1321.

Bring the grandchildren to a play reading at Iona Senior Services. The play, Princess Georgie, is a about a princess growing up in a restrictive environment, who raises a baby dragon in secret. A $5 contribution is requested. Iona is located at 4125 Albemarle St. NW. See www.iona.org/educationand-events/special-events.html to register or call 202-895-9448.

10th • 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

15th • 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.

10th

The 2015 Mayor’s Annual Senior Holiday Celebration will take place at the D.C. Armory, 2001 E. Capitol St. NE. There will be live entertainment, dancing, health screenings, safety and health information, immunizations, food, giveaways and exhibits. For ticket reservations, call 202-724-5626.

11th • noon to 2 p.m. The Howard University College of Dentistry will hold its annual senior luncheon at 600 W St. NW. For more information, call Alice Thompson at 202-535-1321.

Just as they have been in the District, Maryland and Virginia, the group was a hit during the showcase and received a standing ovation from those in attendance. Sandra Bears, Ms. Senior D.C. 2005, and top 10 finalist during the Ms. Senior America Pageant, returned to sing her talent and crowd favorite, “At Last.” After her performance, Showcase MC Helen Halpin McCarney, Ms. Senior America 2005, shared with the audience that during her pageant her family thought that Bears should have been crowned the winner, much to the amusement of the audience. The District was also represented during the events by Toni Jackson, Ms. Senior D.C. 2014, who was a member of the queens choir. The queens are former contestants, who represent-

A Delta Towers Town Hall Meeting will take place at the apartments, 1400 Florida Ave. NE. For more information, call Norma Hardie at 202-5298701.

19th • 6 to 8 p.m. Councilmember Brandon Todd hosts a Ward 4 holiday celebration at St. John’s College High School, 2607 Military Rd. NW. For more information, call Alice Thompson at 202-5351321.

ed many states as they sang a medley of Gershwin tunes, including “Someone to Watch Over Me,” The Man I Love,” and “I’ve Got a Crush on You.” Another treat during the pageant activities: Members of the D.C. Seniors Cameo Club performed their version of “Happy” by Pharrell Williams for the Ms. Senior America Pageant Second Preliminary as well as the Pageant Finals. During their performances, the group performed one day all dressed in white, and then all dressed in red accented by American flag scarves during the finals. Each performance was well received by all in attendance. During the events, a camera crew from the BBC taped the events. It will air as a TV special during the holidays. The District dance groups hope to be featured during the final show. Stay tuned!

Seniors and resid dents with disabilities ies

For assistance, call 311 for Mayor o Bowser’s

DC C RESIDE ENT SNOW TEAM T Serve DC C THE M THE MA AYOR’S OFFICE ON VOLUNTEERISM AY TEERISM ISM

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5

Say you saw it in the Beacon

Money Law &

INVEST IN YOUR GRANDKIDS Four simple and effective ways to give children financial gifts, from 529 plans to fractional shares of stock BETTER TO GIVE AND RECEIVE Donate appreciated stock to charity to avoid capital-gains tax and still get a deduction IN ON THE GROUND FLOOR The Securities and Exchange Commission votes to allow startups to sell stock online

Target funds that work longer than you do By Nellie S. Huang Target-date funds — mutual funds designed for people planning to retire in a particular year — are more popular than ever these days, in part because they have become standard features of workplace retirement plans. But the best thing about target-date funds is that the managers take care of everything. They craft a portfolio of stocks, bonds and other assets that are appropriate for your time horizon. And over time, the fund managers rebalance regularly and gradually shift the asset mix to a more conservative blend. But not all target-date funds are created equal. Three features, it turns out, can make the difference between a good target-date fund and a bad one: The so-called glide path — the proportion of stocks and bonds in the portfolio and how it changes over time as the target date approaches (and passes) — is one factor. Another, of course, is the innards — the quality of the funds that fill the portfolio. (Target-date funds are usually made up of several other funds from the same fund family.)

Finally, expenses matter. As with any investments, the less you pay in annual fees, the better. Taking those factors, as well as a few others, into consideration, we found four target-date series worthy of mention that keep working even after you retire. (All returns are as of Oct. 21, 2015.)

American Funds Target Date As a rule, Kiplinger doesn’t recommend funds that levy sales charges. And that’s why we don’t often write about the American Funds, which offers many fine products but charges a load if you buy the fund directly or through an adviser who is compensated through commissions. But investors generally don’t pay a load to buy shares in American target-date funds if the funds are offered in their workplace retirement plan. American is one of the biggest and oldest fund firms in the country. Many of its funds are among the biggest, by assets, and have solid track records. Such outstanding funds as New Perspective (ANWPX) and Wash-

ington Mutual (AWSHX) fill the Target Date series, which is one reason we like it. Other positives: Low fees, and a glide path that shifts quarterly and continues to do so for 30 years after a fund has reached its target date. Most of the funds in the American Target Date series rank in the top 10 percent of their peer groups over the past five years. American Funds 2030 Target Date (AAETX), which launched in early 2007, has outpaced most of its peers in every calendar year except 2010. The fund returned an annualized 10.3 percent over the past five years, ranking among the top 3 percent of 2030 target-date funds.

Schwab Target Schwab’s target-date series has been around since 2005. But with just $3 billion in assets, it’s tiny compared with the likes of Vanguard and T. Rowe Price, which have $178 billion and $122 billion in assets, respectively, in their target-date products. Even so, Schwab investors haven’t been disappointed. With a mix of actively man-

aged and index funds from Schwab, as well as from Dodge & Cox, Loomis Sayles, Metropolitan West and Wells Fargo, among others, this series has racked up an impressive track record. Over the past 10 years, for instance, Schwab Target 2020 (SWCRX) has returned 5.9 percent annualized, which ranks among the top 5 percent of its peer group Since being named manager in February 2012, Zifan Tang has made several changes to the target-date portfolios, according to Morningstar. Tang altered the glide path in 2013 to boost the funds’ exposure to U.S. bonds and lessen the exposure to foreign bonds. In 2014, she boosted the funds’ holdings in U.S. stocks while trimming the allocation to foreign stocks. Last September, Tang abruptly removed Pimco Total Return from the Schwab lineup when Bill Gross resigned — also abruptly — from Pimco. And this year, Tang removed all Treasury inflation-protected securities (TIPS) from portfolios See TARGET FUNDS, page 37

How high earners can contribute to a Roth IRA By Rachel L. Sheedy Want to put money into a Roth IRA, but can’t because your income exceeds the threshold for contributions? There’s a “backdoor” strategy you can employ. That’s how Paul Missel is building a taxfree pot of retirement money. Missel, 59, works for a pharmaceutical company in Fort Worth, Tex., and his income is too high to make direct contributions to a Roth. Instead, he makes nondeductible (after-tax) contributions to a traditional IRA, and later converts the money to a Roth. There are no income limits for conversions. Missel is a big Roth fan because the money grows tax free, and he will not have to take required minimum distributions when he turns 70 1/2, as he would with a traditional IRA. “It’s the tax liability of RMDs that’s driving me forward doing this,” he said. Singles with adjusted gross income of more than $131,000 in 2015 (more than $193,000 for joint filers) cannot contribute

directly to a Roth IRA. Taxpayers who are younger than 70 1/2 can contribute to a traditional IRA — up to $6,500 in 2015 for those 50 and older. You can convert contributions at any age. Because those nondeductible contributions already have been taxed, the money can be converted tax free. But there’s a hitch if you also have deductible IRA contributions, said Wade Chessman, of Chessman Wealth Strategies, in Dallas. In that case, the “pro rata rule” comes into play, permitting only a portion of the Roth conversion to be tax free.

The rule and the work-around Here’s how the pro rata rule works: You must figure the ratio of your nondeductible contributions to the total held in all of your traditional IRAs. Only that percentage of a conversion will be tax free. So if, for example, you have $10,000 of nondeductible contributions and $90,000 in deductible contributions, just 10% of a conversion is tax free. You will owe ordinary

income tax on the rest. But some workers may be able to circumvent the pro rata rule with what financial planner Kevin Reardon calls a “401(k) rollup.” If you participate in a 401(k) plan that allows you to roll IRA money into it, you can move all your deductible contributions and any pretax earnings into the 401(k). Because employer plans only accept pretax money, just the nondeductible contributions will be left in your IRA — and you can do a tax-free conversion of that to a Roth, said Reardon, founder of Shakespeare Wealth Management, in Pewaukee, Wis. Reardon said the 401(k) rollup is an ideal move for investors who’ve made nondeductible contributions over the years. Perhaps you own one IRA with $50,000 of nondeductible contributions that have grown to $80,000. The $30,000 of pretax growth would go into the 401(k), and the $50,000 of nondeductible contributions could be converted to a Roth tax free.

Those who are self-employed can do this strategy, too, with a solo 401(k).

Your spouse can help Another way to sidestep the pro rata rule: If your nonworking spouse doesn’t have a traditional IRA, you could make nondeductible contributions to a spousal IRA for her. She can then convert the money to a Roth tax free. Because IRAs are not joint accounts, the husband’s traditional IRAs aren’t counted with hers when tallying up the wife’s traditional IRA balances, said Michael Kitces, the director of planning research at Pinnacle Advisory Group, in Columbia, Md. Whatever way you use the strategy, you want to show that each move is independent of the other — and waiting between the two steps is a way to do that. But advisers differ on how long you should wait. Kitces said he advises his clients to hold off for a year. However, the See ROTH IRA, page 37

Law & Money | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Four great ways to give investments to kids When Peggy Mangot began giving her nieces and nephews financial gifts more than a decade ago, the process was frustrating. Buying shares of individual stocks was costly and time-consuming; most mutual funds were out of reach because of high minimum-investment requirements; and purchasing a simple U.S. savings bond proved so difficult that Mangot gave up. Sending checks to the young people accompanied by newspaper articles with suggestions of how to invest the money wasn’t

ideal, either. “Sometimes the check would end up in a drawer,” said Mangot, now CEO of SparkGift, a San Francisco company launched in March to make it easier to give investments to kids. “It wasn’t fun or rewarding for me or for the kids.” Giving financial gifts today is far simpler and more cost-effective, thanks to a growing number of investment options aimed at tech-savvy investors. However, the best option for any individual, regardless of age, will depend on a variety of factors, includ-

ing the goal of the financial gift. “Ideally, you want to look at this as not only a gift, but a teachable moment,” said Stuart Ritter, a certified financial planner at T. Rowe Price who has three children of his own. “That lesson starts with what your goals are.” For relatives and friends who want to buy a modest financial gift for a minor, here are four low-cost options.

to the parents, the beneficiary or both. Fees: $0. Who it’s good for. People who want to give modest gifts to a beneficiary who has an established account will like this. Many 529 plans accept Ugifts in denominations ranging from $15 to $50. Why look elsewhere. If you don’t want to put limits on how the money is spent, avoid 529 plans. Withdrawals from MONEY 1. Ugifts these accounts are subject to MATTERS State governments that offer income taxes and penalties if By Kathy Kristof 529 college-savings plans have the money is used for anycreated “Ugifts” to help facilithing unrelated to schooling. tate small one-time contributions to these Moreover, if you plan to give a substantax-favored accounts. tial amount and live in one of the 34 states Account holders (usually a child’s par- that provide tax breaks for contributing to ents) provide friends and relatives who are a 529 plan, you have better options. (See interested in giving a Ugift a special code “Open a 529” below.) that identifies the child’s account without revealing the account number or recipient’s 2. SparkGift Social Security number. Started by Mangot to address her finanGivers go to the gift-giving section of the cial frustrations, SparkGift makes giving Web site, plug in the code ,and transfer stock and mutual funds as easy as buying a money from their bank accounts. The ac- gift card. count holder gets a message when the The site lets you buy fractional shares in process is completed. roughly 6,000 investments — from individGivers can also download a gift card that See GIFTS TO KIDS, page 38 allows them to e-mail a personal message

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

- Apply for Discounted Rates on Telephone

Lifeline Program (Economy II)

Electric

Residential Aid Discount (RAD) Program

Annual discount on one land line service per household.

Natural Gas

Residential Essential Service (RES) Program

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

Potential savings are between $300-$475 annually.

Water

Customer Assistance Program (CAP)

Potential discount could be over $400 annually.

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

These programs are for DC residents only.

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Law & Money

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5

Target funds From page 35 with target dates running from 2030 through 2055. We like the series’ below-average fee schedule (the Target 2030 (SWDRX) fund costs 0.72 percent in annual expenses, according to the fund’s prospectus, which is well below that of the typical 2030 targetdate fund, at 0.99 percent). And we like the glide path, which starts out aggressively — with more than 90 percent of assets in stocks when you have 40 years to go before you retire — and ends conservatively — as the fund shifts for another 20 years after it reaches the target year, to an ultimate mix of 25 percent stocks, 66 percent bonds, and 9 percent cash.

T. Rowe Price Retirement T. Rowe’s flagship Retirement targetdate series has won high marks from many, including Kiplinger. The obvious reason is the funds’ above-average allocation to stocks. For example, Retirement 2030 (TRRCX), which is designed for those who expect to retire around 2030, devotes 77 percent of its assets to stocks; the average 2030 target-date fund holds 70 percent of its assets in stocks. Even Price’s Retirement 2015 fund, with 54 percent in stocks, is more aggressive than the typical 2015 target-date portfolio, which on average has 45 percent in stocks. The series’ underlying funds have provided some oomph, too. Among the 18 funds in Retirement 2020 are T. Rowe Price Value (TROW), a member of the Kip 25, as well as MidCap Growth (RPMGX),

Roth IRA From page 35 longer you wait, the more the account may grow, which will increase your tax bill on the earnings when you convert. But assuming you plan to keep the money in the Roth for a number of years, Kitces said, “the fact you waited a year is irrelevant.”

New Horizons (PRNHX) and Small-Cap Stock (OTCFX). Not surprisingly, the high stock allocation means above-average volatility. In 2008, when the S&P 500 plunged 37 percent, the most popular T. Rowe target-date funds in 401(k) plans landed in the bottom half of their peer groups. But the good times have outweighed the bad, as demonstrated by the funds’ results during the subsequent bull market. Thanks to their strong results in a blistering stock market, all but one fund in this series boasts a 10-year return that ranks among the top 1 percent of its respective target-date peer group (the exception, Retirement 2005 (TRRFX), ranks in the top 2 percent of its peers). Interestingly, this is a series with which you can truly grow old. The series’ glide path continues to reposition the stockbond balance more conservatively for 30 years past the target year. From the first year of retirement, when you own a fund that has 45 percent in bonds and the rest in stocks, your mix will shift over the next three decades to 80 percent in bonds and 20 percent in stocks.

Inderjeet Jumani REALTOR® Senior Real Estate Specialist 703.472.8804 ijumani@LNF.com www.IJumani.com Alexandria / Old Town Historic District 400 King Street ~ Alexandria, Virginia 22314

rank among the top 9 percent of their respective peers over that period. Glide paths are important while you’re saving and after you retire. With Vanguard’s target-date series, the stock-bond mix continues to swing to a more conservative stance for another five years after the fund reaches its target year. Thereafter, the stock-bond mix stays fixed at 30 percent in stocks and 70 percent in bonds. © 2015 The Kiplinger Washington Editors.

Vanguard Target Retirement This low-cost target-date fund series keeps things simple, and that’s why we like it. Each fund, no matter what target year is in the name, holds just four or five funds. For most of the series’ glide path, Vanguard uses just four of its most popular index funds: Total Stock Market Index (VTSMX), Total International Stock Market Index (VGTSX), Total Bond Market Index (VBMFX) and Total International Bond

Jeffrey Levine, IRA technical consultant with Ed Slott and Co., suggests waiting one statement cycle. The paperwork will show the money was put into a traditional IRA first, and you can get the money into a Roth sooner for tax-free growth. All contents © 2015 the Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Please patronize our advertisers.

55+

Index (VTIBX). When a fund gets within five years of its target year, Vanguard Inflation Protection Securities (VIPSX), an actively managed fund that invests in shortterm TIPS, joins the mix. (Symbols are for the “investor” share class.) Index funds have done well over the past decade and so, not surprisingly, have Vanguard’s target-date funds. The 2015 (VTXVX), 2025 (VTTVX) and 2035 (VTTHX) funds, each of which has a 10-year record,

Are you a 55+ homeowner? Have you thought of moving to: a smaller home, · one-level living, · active adult community, or · an assisted living community? I can help you sell your home in the shortest time for the best price. Downsizing can be easy . . . ·

LET’S MEET AND TALK!

703.472.8804

Life Income You Can Count On! Sample Charitable Gift Annuity

Age: 75

Donation to Children’s National Fixed Annual Payments at 5.8%* Tax-free portion of Payments Income Tax Deduction

$25,000 $1,450 $1,130 $11,100

*Rate as of December 2015 and based on age. Donations start at $10,000. www.childrensnational.org/planagift

Call today! Rita S. Corwin 301-565-8524

Law & Money | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

Gifts to kids From page 36 ual stocks, such as Apple (symbol AAPL) and McDonald’s (MCD), to shares in a variety of exchange-traded funds, including the popular Vanguard Total Market ETF (VTI). The minimum investment is $20; the maximum is $2,000. You can participate in one of two ways. If you’re a parent and want to create a SparkGift registry, you can upload a photo of your child, along with his or her goals and favorite investments. Share that registry with your friends and family, and they can use it like a wedding registry to follow your wishes explicitly or not at all. If you’re a donor and want to give stock to a child who doesn’t yet have an account, you pick the stock and the amount you want to spend, then provide the child’s

D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

name and the parent’s e-mail address. The site will then notify the recipients and have them set up a new account. You don’t have to be concerned about the market price of the stock. The site will buy as many shares — or a fraction of a share — as your gift allows. Fees. $2.95 per transaction, plus 3 percent of the gifted amount. (Mangot said the site is waiving the 3 percent fee through the holiday season, but will impose it after that. The charge defrays the cost of credit card interchange fees.) Who it’s good for. If you want to give a financial gift and are not certain how the money will be used, this service gives the recipient the most options of how to spend their funds. It’s also one of the cheapest ways to buy small amounts of stock. Why look elsewhere. If you anticipate that the accountholder will keep adding to

the account in small increments, you may want to give differently, because those $2.95 charges can add up. In addition, you can’t use SparkGift to fund a tax-favored college account.

3. Capital One Investing Capital One Investing, once known as Sharebuilder and now a subsidiary of credit card giant Capital One Financial, is essentially an online brokerage that charges $6.95 per trade. But Capital One has no minimum investment requirement, so it can be a good alternative for those who want to start a custodial account for a child. Fees: $6.95 per trade. Who it’s good for. Simple custodial accounts are a bit cheaper at SparkGift if you’re giving small amounts. But because of SparkGift’s 3 percent fee, Capital One becomes more cost-effective for those who give shares worth $135 or more. Why look elsewhere. If you plan to make small regular investments, you have better options. At $6.95 a pop, you’re paying a huge commission, on a percentage basis, if you buy, say, a single share of a $25 stock.

4. Open a 529 Ritter, the T. Rowe Price financial planner, is a fan of giving through 529 plans, which are tax-deferred savings vehicles for education expenses. These accounts have many advantages. First, although Uncle Sam doesn’t allow you to take any deductions for contribu-

tions, 34 states — including Maryland and Virginia, as well as Washington, D.C. — provide account holders with some sort of tax break or matching program. The federal government, meanwhile, doesn’t tax the investment buildup in the account (unless the money is used for a purpose other than qualified education expenses). Most 529 plans also offer the equivalent of a target-date fund: age-based portfolios that are well-diversified among stocks, bonds and cash and that become more conservative as the child gets older and closer to the first tuition payment. Ritter thinks the concept of diversification is a lesson worth learning, even at an early age. Moreover, he likes the idea of talking about college and making it an economic priority when kids are young and impressionable. Fees: Vary based on the plan selected. Many plans charge no annual account fees but charge annual fees for asset management, much like any mutual fund. For a comparison of fund fees, go to www.savingforcollege.com/529_fee_study/. Who it’s good for. If you are planning to give regular gifts earmarked for education and you live in one of the 34 states (or the District of Columbia) that provide tax breaks or matching contributions, starting your own 529 is the best bet. The tax breaks are generally reserved for residents who See GIFTS TO KIDS, page 39

FREE WORKSHOP: LEARN TO PROTECT YOUR ASSETS FROM THE EXPENSES OF PROBATE & LONG-TERM CARE

BEACON BITS

Come learn about the 4 Levels of Lifetime Protection Planning and how you can protect your assets from probate PLUS lawsuits PLUS nursing home expenses. Learn about the Living Trust Plus – the only type of asset protection trust that allows you to be trustee and retain an interest in the trust while also protecting your assets from being counted by state Medicaid agencies.

A seasoned tax preparer will present information on selecting a reputable service

Dec. 15

The Montgomery County RSVP/AARP Tax-Aide program presents a free information session on tax preparation on Tuesday, Dec. 15 from 1 to 2 p.m. provider, criteria for assistance, gathering the correct documents, and tax deduc-

tions and changes in the tax code that may affect seniors. This event will take place at the Holiday Park Senior Center, located at 3950 Ferrara Dr., Silver Spring, Md. For more information, call (240) 777-2610.

FREE WORKSHOPS IN FAIRFAX Saturday, Dec. 12th , 2015 & Jan. 16th, 2016 10 am – 12 pm " "

" "

# The# Law #Firm of Evan Farr######### # Fairfax Main Office: 10640 Main St., Suite 200, " " " " " " " |" 703-691-1888 " " " " " Fairfax, VA 22030

" "

"Call " "

" " To Reserve " " Your " Now Seat: " " 703-691-1888

" " " " " "

Ongoing # "

" "

# Online # # at: www.VirginiaElderLaw.com Or Register "

TAX PREP INFO

"" " " " " " appointments "" Also " accepting " " " " at our other offices: " " " " " " " " " Fredericksburg 511 Westwood Office Park, " Office: "

ARLINGTON REAL ESTATE TAX RELIEF Arlington County sponsors the Real Estate Tax Relief Program, which provides an exemption or deferral of real estate taxes for

qualified Arlington homeowners 65 or older and certain homeowners with disabili-

" " "

" "

" The "2016 "program " ties. begins in mid-January. For more information or an applica-

" " " tion, " visit http://topics.arlingtonva.us/realestate/taxes-payments/real-estate" " " tax-relief " or " call (703) " 228-3920, TTY (703) 228-4611. " "

# "

" " "

"" " "

Fredericksburg, VA 22401 | 540-479-1435 # # K #Street NW, # # DC Office:1425 # # # ### Washington, DC 20005 | 202-587-2797

MD Office: 1 Research Court, Suite 450, # # # # Rockville, MD 20850 | 301-519-8041 " " " H. Farr, " "Certified " Elder " Law " Attorney, " "creator of the " Living " "Trust"Plus " TM Your Speaker is Evan Asset Protection Trust " " # and one# of the foremost "" legal authorities " " in" the Country" in the " fields of " Medicaid Asset Protection and Medicaid Asset Protection Trusts. #

# #has no procedure # # ########### # # Virginia for# approving certifying organizations.

#############

# #

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Law & Money

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5

Gifts to kids From page 38 contribute to their own state’s 529 plan. Matching contributions of up to set amounts are made to the account for “qualified” recipients in some states. Qualified recipients are usually those with low incomes or those who meet certain requirements, such as opening the account before the beneficiary’s first birthday. You are the account owner. This typically allows you to claim the tax breaks and control when the beneficiary gets the money. (Every plan varies, so be sure to read the terms and conditions.) You can even change beneficiaries, if the original recipient changes his or her mind about college. You can open a new account with as little

as $250, and you may have no initial minimum investment requirement if you sign up for automatic monthly contributions of as little as $25. You can find a comprehensive list of 529 minimum investment requirements at www.savingforcollege.com. Why look elsewhere. If you are contributing a small one-time amount, or live in a state that doesn’t provide tax breaks for 529 contributions, you needn’t go through the trouble of starting a separate account. Also, if you want to give a financial gift to someone who is over the age of 18, it makes little sense to lock the money up in a 529 plan. That’s because a young adult is likely to use the money well before he or she can benefit from the tax breaks and the longterm compounding of the investments. Besides, 18-year-olds with bank ac-

counts have far more options — such as Robinhood, a free brokerage platform that operates via smartphone, and Acorns, an investment platform that charges just $1 per month to manage a diversified portfolio of exchange-traded funds. Motif Investing, which gives account holders the ability to buy a theme-based package of stocks for $9.95, is another op-

tion for those willing to spend $300 or more to set up an account for a young adult. Any of these three investment programs would make more sense for an 18-year-old who wanted to learn about money management. All contents © 2015 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

BEACON BITS

Dec. 9

DEMYSTIFYING MEDICARE

The Montgomery County State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) presents Demystifying Medicare, a free seminar, on Wednesday, Dec. 9 from 7 to 8:45 p.m. Leta Blank, SHIP coordinator, will discuss when to sign up, if you can work and use Medicare, and more at the Quince Orchard Library, located at 15831 Quince Orchard Rd., Gaithersburg, Md. For more information, call (240) 777-0200.

Why donate appreciated stock to charity Despite recent market gyrations, it’s likely your portfolio is filled with stocks that have appreciated over the past few years. If you want to make an end-of-year donation to a charity of your choice, consider giving some appreciated stock. You’ll avoid the capital-gains tax on the appreciation, and can deduct the stock’s full market value at the time of the gift. When you’re identifying stocks to donate, pay attention to asset classes in which you’re overweighted and need to cut back anyway. And only consider appreciated stock that you’ve held for more than a year. Taxpayers who donate short-term-gain property get a deduction only on the original cost. Say you bought stock for $3,000 and donate it to charity 11 months later when it’s worth $5,000. In that case, you could only deduct $3,000. If you wait another month (so the stock’s appreciation qualifies as “long-term”), you can take the fair market value $5,000 write-off.

And don’t donate stock that has lost value. Your write-off is limited to its fair market value. If the stock’s price has declined since you bought it, you’re better off selling the shares to realize the loss (you can use it to offset gains in your portfolio), and then donating the cash to earn your charitable deduction.

Another good idea If you are providing financial help to your children or parents, consider giving them appreciated stock rather than selling the stock and handing over cash. “You won’t have to pay capital-gains tax on the sale,” said Michael Eisenberg, a certified public accountant at Miller Ward & Company, an accounting firm in Encino, Cal. Instead, he said, your kids or parents, provided they are in a lower bracket, will pay tax at their tax rate when they sell the stock. © 2015 The Kiplinger Washington Editors

PAUL F. RIEKHOF ATTORNEY AT LAW

Estate Planning & Administration JOSEPH, GREENWALD & LAAKE, P.A. 111 Rockville Pike Suite 975 Rockville, MD 20850

135 W. Dares Beach Rd Suite 209A Prince Frederick, MD 20678

6404 Ivy Lane Suite 400 Greenbelt, MD 20770

Listed in Washington SmartCEO’s “Legal Elite” Complete estate plans to avoid probate, save taxes, and assure distribution according to your wishes. t 3FDFJWF FREE information on Estate Planning. t 4DIFEVMF B FREE 30-minute consultation to discuss your personal plan in our offices or your home.

240-399-7899

Did you know?

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

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

Law & Money | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Investing in startups will soon be easier By Marcy Gordon For years, artists, charities and entrepreneurs have used the power of the Internet to generate money for projects. It’s called “crowdfunding,” and lets members of the public financially support those who are engaged in potentially worthwhile or profitable endeavors. However, the money sent is not technically invested: donors get no stock and don’t share in any resulting wealth. But a new form of crowdfunding is coming soon that will allow startups to raise money by selling stock to Main Street investors. The Securities and Exchange Commission recently adopted rules implementing a 2012 law that opened the door to securities crowdfunding. The vote was 3-1 at a public meeting.

An opportunity, but risky Starting in mid-2016, businesses will be able to offer investors a piece of their com-

YO U R

pany by legally selling stock online. For investors, it’s a chance to make a small profit and possibly get in early on the next Twitter, Instagram or Uber. But it also entails high risk, given that a majority of startups fail. About half of all small businesses shut down within the first five years. Some critics also warn that investment crowdfunding is ripe for fraud. The new SEC rules won’t prevent the types of fraud that can arise in conventional online scams, said Mercer Bullard, a law professor at the University of Mississippi who is a mutual-fund investor advocate. “You can embezzle someone’s money in the guise of making a securities offering,” Bullard said in a telephone interview. With an eye to protecting investors, the crowdfunding securities offerings can only be made through brokerage firms or new Internet funding portals that must be reg-

New

istered with the SEC. The portals will be expected to provide investors with materials explaining the process, investment limits and resale restrictions. To reduce fraud risks, the portals are charged with vetting the companies and the prospective investors. SEC Chair Mary Jo White said before the vote that agency staff “will begin immediately to keep a watchful eye on how this market develops.” They will assess what kinds of companies use the new crowdfunding offerings, how closely they follow the rules, and whether the new practice promotes the raising of capital while also protecting investors. The SEC proposed the crowdfunding rules two years ago. Waiting at the starting gate for the final rules to take effect: legions of startups in areas such as packaged food, medical and biotechnology,

LIFESTYLE BEGINS HERE

ALL COMMUNITIES ARE SMOKE FREE

A PA RT M E N T H O M E S F O R T H O S E 6 2 A N D B E T T E R

restaurants and real estate. Lisa Fetterman, the founder and CEO of cooking equipment startup Nomiku, sees a potential opportunity “because banks aren’t going to give [startups] money,” she said. The company sells machines for sous-vide cooking — a sort of vacuum method meant to cook evenly and seal in moisture — to both home cooks and restaurants. Nomiku has raised about $1.3 million in the past few years through conventional crowdfunding on Kickstarter. Now with the SEC rule change, Fetterman sees about a 50-50 chance her company will plunge into investment crowdfunding. Key factors are the quality of funding portals and the extent to which they can vet investors, she said.

Investments are capped Under the new rules, people with annual income or net worth up to $100,000 will be allowed to invest a maximum of 5 percent of their yearly income or net worth, or $2,000 if that is greater. Those with higher incomes can invest up to 10 percent. But an individual can’t invest a total of more than $100,000 in all crowdfunding offerings during a 12-month period. Investors generally will not be able to resell their crowdfunding securities for one year. Under current rules, only “accredited investors” who meet certain wealth thresholds can fund startups. They must either have a net worth of $1 million, excluding the value of their primary home, or have generated income of $200,000 or more in each of the last two years. For their part, companies will be allowed to raise a maximum of $1 million a year from individual investors without registering with the SEC. Companies will have to provide information to investors about their business plan and how they will use the money they raise, as well as a list of their officers, directors and those who own at least 20 percent of the company. — AP

ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY

EASTERN SHORE

Furnace Branch 410-761-4150

Easton 410-770-3070

Severna Park 410-544-3411

HARFORD COUNTY

BALTIMORE CITY

Bel Air 410-893-0064

Ashland Terrace 410-276-6440

Box Hill 410-515-6115

Coldspring 410-542-4400

HOWARD COUNTY

BALTIMORE COUNTY

Colonial Landing 410-796-4399

Catonsville 410-719-9464

Columbia 410-381-1118

Dundalk 410-288-5483

Ellicott City 410-203-9501

Fullerton 410-663-0665

Ellicott City II 410-203-2096

Miramar Landing 410-391-8375

Emerson 301-483-3322

Randallstown 410-655-5673

Snowden River 410-290-0384

Rosedale 410-866-1886

PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY

The Northern Virginia Long Term Care

Bladensburg 301-699-9785

Ombudsman Program is looking for vol-

Towson 410-828-7185

Laurel 301-490-1526

unteer advocates for residents in nurs-

Woodlawn 410-281-1120

Laurel II 301-490-9730

ing homes and assisted living facilities.

Taylor 410-663-0363

55 AND BETTER!

= NEWLY RENOVATED

www.ParkViewSeniorLiving.com Call the community nearest you to inquire about eligibility requirements and to arrange a personal tour or email parkviewliving@sheltergrp.com. Professionally managed by The Shelter Group. www.thesheltergroup.com

BEACON BITS

Ongoing

VOLUNTEER ADVOCATES

For more information, contact Lisa Callahan at (703) 324-5861, TTY 711, email Lisa.Callahan@fairfaxcounty.gov, or visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/dfs/olderadultservices/ltcombudsman.

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5

Say you saw it in the Beacon

A Special Supplement to The Beacon newspaper

Happy Hanukkah

Light the first candle at sundown December 6

December 2015/No. 39 March 2015/No. 36

The power of pet therapy

Two afternoons a week, Moore and Becca Cooper, kennel manager at Hero Dogs, pair up dogs and their handlers with post-acute patients for lively activities that their two-legged therapists feel would be productive, including: Fetch: to increase range of motion and upper-body trunk and arm strength

The Post-Acute Care Center at the Hebrew Home has more than 53 skilled therapists of the human variety. We also have warm and furry therapists of the canine sort who play an important role in helping patients succeed on the road to recovery and return home. Ann Matesi, executive director of Therapy, says the innovative pet therapy program “dramatically boosts motivation, and makes therapy fun, real-life, and definitely more exciting.” The program began in 2014 when Amber Moore, a certified therapeutic recreation specialist, sought a way to engage and lift the spirits of long-term care residents. She turned to Hero Dogs, Inc., an organization that trains service dogs to provide specialized assistance and companionship to US veterans. Almost immediately, Moore noticed the kind of results she was seeking. This led her to consider the potential benefit of using therapy dogs to augment formal rehabilitation strategies in the Post-Acute Care Center. Her instinct has paid off. For Jane Hewitt’s father, Hebrew Home resident Simpson Lawson, 91, the program has achieved wonders. Lawson, a writer and former journalist for the Courier Journal in Louisville, Kentucky, initially had no interest in leisure programs, but today he can’t wait for the dogs to arrive. “This is when he’s happiest,” says Hewitt, observing her dad tossing balls from a wheelchair to his favorite canine playmate. “This is his special time,” she says. “For a man who never owned a dog, it’s amazing to see him so animated.”

Walk the dog: to encourage upright mobility, build strength, and increase balance Brush the dog: to offer pleasurable exercise, promote engagement, and reduce stress Kick the ball: to increase range of motion, coordination, and lower-body strength Petting: to help some patients become emotionally connected, more alert, and active “The pet therapy program is a fabulous way to make rehabilitation exciting,” says Matesi. “I’m an avid supporter – and a grateful fan of the Recreational Therapy Department. Moore and her team deserve a lot of praise.” More than 1,000 individuals choose the Post-Acute Center at the Hebrew Home every year for rehabilitation, and 80 percent return to their homes, and perhaps to their own beloved pets.To arrange post-hospital recovery in our five-star rated program, call 301.770.8476. n

‘‘

I haven’t even been here a week and I’m walking! This pet therapy program is fantastic.

Inside this issue

Music for the soul

Faith leaders address elder abuse

’’

— Joan Meyer, photo page 6

Making Shabbat special

HEBREW HOME • SMITH-KOGOD & WASSERMAN RESIDENCES • COHEN-ROSEN HOUSE ELDERSAFE CENTER • HIRSH HEALTH CENTER • LANDOW HOUSE • REVITZ HOUSE • RING HOUSE

People in the news

D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

Eight nights: Tradition,Tradition Throughout the campus of Charles E. Smith Life Communities, residents will kindle the Hanukkah lights, savor crispy latkes, and celebrate the miracle of this most joyous of holidays. Happy Hanukkah from our home to yours!

Focus on life

First person The warmth of winter What brings warmth and comfort to your home? Perhaps it is the presence of a pet, the sounds of your favorite music, or a sense of safety and security. At Charles E. Smith Life Communities, while winter may bring the big chill, our residences are infused with warmth from all these things and more. Our cover story is about pets that not only visit residents, but that assist post-acute patients in their therapy goals. On page four, read about an unusually engaging music program, and a performance that you are cordially invited to attend. Dedicated and generous donors bring their own warmth to our campus; in this issue, read about families who are committed to supporting the ElderSAFE Center, which provides shelter and advocacy to combat elder abuse and to keep older adults safe. When the deep chill of winter does arrive, our staff is determined to keep programs, care, and services going, no matter what the weather. Back-up generators keep the lights on and essential utilities running. Our team keeps the walks clear and the dining services humming. Charles E. Smith Life Communities is a warm and welcoming place to spend the winter and beyond. I invite you to visit and check us out!

Marysol Martinez (left) inspired her middle school students to support Alzheimer’s care, making the news in Frederick, MD. Marysol and her husband Chuck are frequent visitors to his mother Ana at the Hebrew Home. The couple were high school sweethearts, king and queen of their prom. Mom still has the trophy.

Teacher inspires students to fight Alzheimer’s

Warren R. Slavin President/CEO, Charles E. Smith Life Communities Warren Slavin with Lenore England at the 2015 President’s Circle Dinner. The ongoing support of donors like Lenore and her mother Pat England helps provide exceptional services for older adults and creates a warm, engaging community on our campus.

When Crestwood Middle School Spanish teacher and Hebrew Home family member Marysol Martinez explained to her classes how Alzheimer’s disease has changed her mother-in-law’s life, it came as a revelation – these pre-teens had never considered the disease’s real-life impact. The message they took away was so powerful that 65 students signed on to the Martinez team for the Western Maryland Walk to End Alzheimer’s and began collecting donations to combat the disease. Their efforts made the local news. Ana Martinez, 77, has been living in the Smith-Kogod Residence since last summer. Her son Chuck, an active-duty wounded warrior who goes to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center for treatment, says she was a feisty, devoted mother to him and seven siblings. Now, speaking by her side at the Hebrew Home, Chuck expresses gratitude for the sensitive response our Admissions director provided when he and Marysol urgently sought help for Ana. It was a tough decision for them to move her out of her home of 57 years. “In our Hispanic culture,” stresses Marysol, “this is not the way it’s supposed to be. We, not others, care for loved ones when they’re ill.” Now, appreciative of the specialized memory care Ana receives, the Martinez family regularly travels from Frederick to the Home, and they are quick to say, “It’s worth the drive.” n

Support older adults Take advantage of charitable deductions for 2015 and support the seniors of our community today. Charles E. Smith Life Communities is blessed to be able to provide state-of-the-art, personalized care, steeped in the Jewish values of compassion, respect and dignity for thousands of seniors each year. We have a five-star rating from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, and a team of board-certified physicians on-staff, as well as engaging recreational therapy and enrichment programs for residents. Give today! Visit www.smithlifecommunities.org n

Page 2 | December 2015

Online now at www.smithlifecommunities.org: • Sign up for Celebrate! @ AMP • Register for community engagement events • Volunteer opportunities

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5

Say you saw it in the Beacon

Wizard of Oz | Sunday, December 27 11:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. | Bord Social Hall | Wasserman Residence Because there’s no place like the Hebrew Home during Winter Break! Please join us for an intergenerational movie experience for Charles E. Smith Life Communities residents, families, and members of the community. Whether it is your first time seeing the movie, or your fiftieth, come dressed as your favorite character, bring a beanbag chair, or just come to enjoy.

Popcorn and light luncheon refreshments will be provided. Dietary laws observed. Free, but registration is requested.Visit www.hebrew-home.org/oz or call 301.770.8300. Please note: Volunteer SSL hours are available for program volunteers. No drop-offs for children under 16.

Special events

Musician-in-Residence Lauren Latessa is organizing a Chamber Music Festival at Ring House.

Join us Thursday,

DECEMBER 10 at 6:30 p.m.

Celebrate! @ AMP by Strathmore Pike and Rose | 11810 Grand Park Avenue | North Bethesda, MD 20852

Music for the soul Fostering the belief that music brings warmth to the body and soul, Charles E. Smith Life Communities is hosting a very special event in December, thanks to a grant awarded to Musicianin-Residence Lauren Latessa, who oversees music programming for Ring House, Landow House, and Cohen-Rosen House. Latessa, a gifted cellist, will be joined by three other professional string musicians for a weeklong Chamber Music Festival, December 14 through 18. The artists will lead open rehearsals, lectures, and performances throughout the week, allowing the musicians and residents to explore the music together on a level rarely – if ever – experienced in a senior living community. “Often, musicians come to retirement communities for one performance, and that’s the only interaction residents have with them,” said Latessa. “To actually have the chance to spend time and develop personal relationships with each other is a really exciting and wonderful opportunity.” One concert is open Latessa applied for, and won a 2015 Tarisio Trust Young to the public and free of Artists Grant to bring the festival charge, on Dec. 17. to fruition. Her proposal was chosen from among scores of applications that were submitted from around the globe. Latessa says she formed a festival committee with ten Ring House residents to program the week’s activities, and together they selected the theme, Music is Food for the Soul. In addition to Latessa on cello, the string quartet-in-residence is scheduled to include Emma Lee Holmes-Hicks and Ealain McMullin, violinists and co-directors of the Newport, Rhode Island String Project, and Isabella Mensz, a violist based in New Haven, Connecticut. One concert is open to the public and free of charge, on December 17, at 8:00 p.m. in the Auerbach Social Hall at Ring House. The program will feature Mozart’s String Quartet No. 1 in G Major, KV 80, and Dvorak’s String Quartet No. 12, Op. 96 “American.” Reserve tickets by calling 301.816.5086. n

This year’s event is complimentary for households with 2015 gifts of $500 or more to Charles E. Smith Life Communities. Celebrate your support at Strathmore’s dazzling new venue at Pike and Rose. The evening includes cocktails, dinner, and a performance by comic mind reader Eric Dittelman. Dietary laws observed.

New Community Minyanim The Sam and Minnie Feldman Family Synagogue in the Wasserman Residence is a beautiful, tranquil space, warmed by the glow of contemporary stained glass. Individuals in the community are always invited to join our daily services, held at convenient daytime hours for those wishing to worship or say Kaddish, 9:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Beginning in January 2016, on the second Thursday of the month, we will be offering a special afternoon Community Minyan, at 3:30 p.m. that we hope will encourage more family and community members to become acquainted with our minyanim and worship with residents. Following the service, there will be a reception with refreshments in the conservatory. To learn more about volunteering, attending, or participating, please call 301.770.8329. Community Minyan dates for 2016 are January 14, February 11, March 10, April 14, May 12, June 9, July 14, August 11, September 8, October 13, November 10, and December 8, at 3:30 p.m. n

LifeTimes | Page 3

D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

“Elder abuse will not stop on its own. Someone else needs to step in and help.” — National Institute on Aging

The ElderSAFE Center at Charles E. Smith Life Communities steps in to assist victims of abuse who are referred to the program with safe temporary shelter and also works to prevent abuse through advocacy and community education. ElderSAFE helpline: 301.816.5099.

Special menschen

Sharing our expertise

Elder SAFE Charles E. Smith Life Communities

Friedlander family ensures support for ElderSAFE Center In October 2012, Andy Friedlander, then chair of the Board of Governors, and Warren Slavin, President/CEO, attended a White House conference on elder abuse, an experience that was so compelling that it led to the creation of the ElderSAFE Center at Charles E. Smith Life Communities. “After our meeting at the White House, it was clear to me that the compassionate and highly-skilled clinical care at Charles E. Smith Life Communities made us the perfect resource to shelter elder victims of abuse and to educate the community about this issue,” Andy recalls. “I felt Charles E. Smith Life Communities was in a Elder position SAFE to establish this center.” unique Charles Smith AndyE.not only played an integral role in launching the ElderSAFE Center Life Communities in September, 2014, but he has also made it his mission to ensure the support essential to sustaining this innovative program is in place. Andy, his wife Tracey, and his parents Arlene and Steve Friedlander along with members of his extended family have made a commitment of $100,000 to support the Center’s work in sheltering victims, advocacy, and educational programming. Their gift honors Andy’s grandparents, Jack and Adelaide Friedlander and Jack and Idalee Diener, a fitting tribute given their impressive legacy of support. Jack Friedlander was instrumental in acquiring the gift that made Ring House a reality. Jack and Idalee Diener generously supported our state-of-the-art dental clinic. Arlene and Steve Friedlander have served on the Guardian Campaign Committee for decades, inspiring others to give and raising millions to benefit the residents we serve. Andy also enlisted generous support for the ElderSAFE Center from Moe and Kathy Dweck and the ELNO Family Foundation, and from Marilyn Cohen and her children Janice and Jeffrey. These families, like the Friedlanders, continue to strengthen CESLC with their leadership and support. CEO Warren Slavin said, “These gifts to the ElderSAFE Center from the Friedlander, Dweck, and Cohen families will save lives, bring dignity and safety to older adults, and through our education and advocacy efforts, do much to raise awareness and reduce elder abuse in our community.” n

Page 4 | December 2015

Photos by Hilary Schwab

Arlene, Andy, Tracey, and Steve Friedlander are committed to supporting the ElderSAFE Center.

From left, Imam Faizul Khan of the Islamic Society of the Washington Area, and Rev. Mansfield “Kasey” Kaseman, Montgomery County Interfaith Community Liaison, join Rabbi James Michaels, Charles E. Smith Life Communities. Rev. Dr. Anne Marie Hunter of Safe Havens Interfaith Partnership Against Domestic Violence shares a resource for faith leaders.

Faith leaders convene to address elder abuse How do faith leaders resolve the conflict between maintaining confidentiality and the responsibility to report elder abuse? How does a religious leader “walk the tightrope” when both victim and perpetrator belong to the same congregation? On October 29, more than 100 service providers and faith leaders from Christian, Hindu, Jewish, Muslim, and other denominations met at the Hebrew Home, Charles E. Smith Life Communities, to grapple with these questions. This clergy outreach event was presented in partnership with the Maryland Network Against Domestic Violence. “The ElderSAFE Center was established at Charles E. Smith Life Communities as an extension of our mission and as a further expression of our values,” said Rabbi James Michaels, director of Pastoral Care on campus. To date, the Center has educated 2,610 individuals, fielded 71 referrals and inquiries, offered shelter to eight victims of abuse, and provided 242 days of shelter. “Elder abuse is a problem that may be staring us in the face, a problem that we may not recognize,” he said. “We have convened this program to help us recognize it, and to help us know what to do.” Rev. Dr. Anne Marie Hunter, keynote speaker, said “faith leaders have an important and unique role with both the victim and perpetrator. There are times when the behavior of a perpetrator is dangerous and aggressive enough that clergy have to make decisions that will keep the victim safe. If I am forced to make a choice, my first priority is to ensure the victim’s safety.” Faith leaders were encouraged to draw upon expert intervention for counseling or to help congregants navigate the legal process, to include the topic of elder abuse in their sermons, and to understand that apologies or expressions of faith do not mean a pattern of abuse will change. In addition to Rev. Hunter and Rabbi Michaels, panelists included: • Imam Faizul Khan, Islamic Society of the Washington Area • Bryan Roslund, Montgomery County State’s Attorney’s Office • Mario Wawrzusin, Montgomery County Adult Protective Services • Erin Boguski, Maryland Network Against Domestic Violence To learn more, visit www.eldersafe.org or www.interfaithpartners.org. n

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5

Say you saw it in the Beacon

Your Home. Your Life. Your Community.

A surprising opportunity at Ring House At Ring House, your choices shape your day. With spacious studios now available, you can be located in the heart of Rockville, taking advantage of all of the amenities and services of a gracious community, at a surprisingly affordable price.

Your new lifestyle just became easier. Please call Pam Rosen at 301.816.5012 to schedule a private tour. 1801 East Jefferson Street Rockville, Maryland

Quality services

On our campus

Brain enhancement program earns major award

Miriam Bernstein, Barbara Panitz, and Rose Grossman with the Shabbat boxes they have assembled for patients at Suburban Hospital, Johns Hopkins Medicine.

Making Shabbat special for hospital patients Campus residents are often on the receiving end of volunteer service, benefiting from the many teens, adults, and retirees who support projects and programs throughout our community. But did you know that residents often do volunteer work as well? Residents living on the West Campus and at Revitz House have formed volunteer groups called the Chesed Corps (chesed means kindness) to perform community service. On the West Campus, I enjoy doing something members meet every Thursday to fill 20 gift boxes with challah, for other people, and I feel grape juice, and sweets for good about it. Jewish patients at Suburban — Rose Grossman Hospital. On Friday, these handwrapped gifts are delivered on a CESLC bus to volunteers at the hospital who get the gifts to patients in time for Sabbath. Recently, Chesed Corps regulars Barbara Panitz and Rose Grossman of Ring House, and Miriam Bernstein of Landow House, were busily preparing boxes in the Landow Art Room. “I enjoy doing something for other people, and I feel good about it,” Grossman said. Rev. Barbara McKenzie, director of Spiritual Care and Chaplaincy Services at Suburban Hospital, says patients and their families are going through trying times, and the Shabbat boxes do make a difference. “I just want to say ‘thank you.’ This is a blessing and our patients are so appreciative.” “This is the first major project that the Chesed Corps has taken under its wing,” said Stacey Watson, manager of Lifestyle and Leisure for Ring House and Landow House. “Our hope is to do more service projects for others out in the community.” This program is supported by the Guardian Fund for Excellence at Charles E. Smith Life Communities. Readers can check out our slideshow on our YouTube channel and Facebook page to see how the boxes come together and get to Suburban. n

‘‘

’’

We’re proud to announce that the Brain Enhancement Program at Charles E. Smith Life Communities has received the prestigious Gold Award in McKnight’s Excellence in Technology Awards, Dignity category, for our use of interactive gaming software for memory care and its impact on the quality of life for residents.The software was developed by An Cao, director of Information Systems, and Patty Hagen, director of Memory Care, The McKnight’s award is one of the most respected honors in the senior living industry, presented by an organization that shares breaking news in healthcare with those providing long-term care throughout the continuum of services, including skilled nursing, post-acute care, assisted living, and independent living. “We are extremely excited that the innovative brain gym and other technology-based programming on campus have been recognized with this award,” said Hagen. “We are honored to provide stimulating and innovative services to improve cognitive care to residents each day, and we hope to elevate the thoughts of others to do the same in their communities.” “It has been rewarding to apply gaming and innovative technologies to improve memory care for seniors,” said Cao in a McKnight’s interview. “This population is often overlooked when decisions about investing in technology are made.” The games and cognitive challenges that Cao and Hagen have customized for older adults drew inspiration from the gaming industry.They are computeraccessible through ergonomic touch screens featuring large, colorful icons, and through projection onto large screens that engage groups of participants. Games can be personalized according to past experiences, interests, and pastimes and tailored to any cognitive level. “It’s never one-size-fits-all,” Cao says. n Patty Hagen and An Cao with the McKnights Gold Award. They created interactive gaming software specifically designed for memory care which won the award for Excellence in Technology, Dignity category.

LifeTimes is published quarterly by the Hebrew Home of Greater Washington, Inc., dba Charles E. Smith Life Communities. The Hebrew Home is a registered charity in Maryland and Virginia. A copy of the Home’s financial statement is available from the Maryland Secretary of State or the Virginia State Office of Consumer Affairs. We are an equal opportunity employer and we provide access to community programs without regard to race, age, national origin, familial status, religion, sex, or disability. Our services and programs are open to all in the community.

Joseph B. Hoffman, Chair Warren R. Slavin, President/CEO Abbey S. Fagin, V P, Development and Public Affairs Marilyn Feldman, Director, Communication Hannah Buchdahl, Assoc. Director, Communication Emily L. Tipermas, Communication Specialist © 2015 by Hebrew Home of Greater Washington 6121 Montrose Road, Rockville, MD 20852 301.881.0300 www.smithlifecommunities.org

Support us through a gift to United Way

3 check 8111 or CFC n 3 check 49705. n LifeTimes | Page 5

D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

Just the right amount of assistance makes a big difference in life.

“You created a setting that is incomparable in every respect.” Discover why memory care at Cohen-Rosen House and assisted living at Landow House are so special. Call 301.816.5050.

In our mailbox Dear Dale [Dale Zazanis is manager at Cohen-Rosen House, memory care assisted living], fy the whole Thanks for your comforting letter. You typi nurses and aides who atmosphere at Cohen-Rosen House. The fort to me every time I cared for Ruth so gently were also a com and Senay, who were visited. I thank them all, especially Florence Ruth’s daily condition. always happy to give me a full report on ory of my sister I am sending this contribution in loving mem care of her. and in honor of all the many folks who took With love and appreciation, Annie

Your Home. Your Life. Your Community.

Discover why the five-star-rated quality care, exceptional therapy gym, and outstanding track record for rehabilitation and recovery make the PostAcute Care Center at the Hebrew Home a choice you can feel good about.

‘‘

A 2015 Top Vote Getter

Our goal is to get you back home. Nothing makes us happier than seeing our patients walk out the door.

’’

— Ann Matesi, executive director, Therapy

Amber Moore, recreation therapist (left), introduced therapy dogs to our rehabilitation program. Joan Meyer (65, here for short-term rehab for recovery from knee replacement surgery); Lauren Sanders, OT; and Ann Matesi, executive director of Therapy, are pictured here with Teddy, seated. Story, page 1.

Page 6 | December 2015

For information call 301.770.8476 or visit www.smithlifecommunities.org

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5

Say you saw it in the Beacon

Discover how your planned gift to support Charles E. Smith Life Communities can accomplish your goals and ensure a meaningful legacy.

Plan YourLega cy,

Buildthe Futu

To request your free copy of our new brochure, call Elana Lippa, director, Gift Planning, at 301.770.8342.

People in the news

Photo by Connie Springer

New Yorker cartoonist Roz Chast talked with wit and candor and signed copies of her book, Can’t We Talk About Something More Pleasant? at an event sponsored by Charles E. Smith Life Communities.

Nurse Practitioner Deborah Boggs retired in November after 26 years providing health services to staff. “I created and grew the occupational health service we have on campus to serve a staff of 1,100. I’ve learned so much working for such a multicultural team from around the globe. Our life concerns are really all the same.”

Photographer/writer Connie Springer was in town visiting her father, Lou Rubin, 102, who was recuperating in the Post-Acute Care Center. She snapped this photo of musician Liz Kruger entertaining residents and guests one evening. Kruger serenaded Rubin, who has a cheerful attitude and delightful sense of humor, with his favorite song, Yankee Doodle.

Anne Coyle shares her passion for Shakespeare several times a week with residents at the Hebrew Home, Ring House, and Revitz House. A self-professed lifelong “Shakespeare freak,” Coyle has led classes for eight years, enthralling students who read plays aloud, watch Shakespeare-related movies, and tease out the relevance of Shakespearian themes to today’s politics and culture. “I love working with seniors,” says Coyle, 72, “because we understand Shakespeare better at this age than when we were young.”

Kyle Hreben, administrator of Housing Operations, West Campus, welcomes Nancy Reburn, new manager of Assisted Living Services at Landow House and CohenRosen House. “I’m thrilled to be here,” said Reburn, who has 13 years of experience in the field and comes to us from Arden Courts of Potomac.

Photos by Randy Sager

Don and Marcia Kaplan (left) and Jay and Lynn Katzen were among the guests at the 2015 President’s Circle Dinner in October in an elegant setting at the National Portrait Gallery and Smithsonian American Art Museum. The President’s Circle Dinner is for annual donors of $6,000 or more. ESPN commentator and sports columnist Michael Wilbon (right) entertained 200 sports enthusiasts at a networking event in November. He is pictured with Joe Hoffman, chair, Board of Governors.

LifeTimes | Page 7

D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

Our calendar 2016 SAVE THE DATES

DECEMBER

March 9 Game Day at Ring House (formerly Mah Jongg/Bridge for Fun)

night of Hanukkah. 6 First Eighth candle is lit December 13

Celebrate! @ AMP by Strathmore Celebrate accomplishments of 2015 with cocktails, dinner, and a performance by comic mind reader Eric Dittelman 6:30 p.m. | AMP by Strathmore at Pike & Rose Complimentary event for 2015 donors of $500+ Register online | More information: 301.770.8351

Music Festival 17 Chamber 8:00 p.m., Ring House | String quartet-in-residence

featuring Jewish rock musician Rick Recht, hosted by the Harold and Shirley Robinson Foundation, Bruce, Paula, and Debra Robinson

April 15 Sixth annual Sara and Samuel J. Lessans Healthcare Symposium

OTHER EVENTS

Movie, The Wizard of Oz 27 Family 11:00 a.m., Wasserman Residence | Free event

1st Sunday of the month — Jewish War Veterans Meeting 10:00 a.m. | Ring House | Veterans and interested persons welcome.

Open to the community RSVP: www.hebrew-home.org/oz More information: 301.770.8351

2nd Monday of the month — Family Caregiver Support Group Presented jointly by Ring House and JSSA Senior Services. Noon – 1:30 p.m. | Ring House | Free, open to the community Call 301.816.2635

JANUARY H2YP – Application deadline 15 The 2016 session of the Harold and Shirley

Community Minyan Members of the community are invited to join us for worship. | 3:30 p.m. Wasserman Residence Refreshments following services

April 10 W e are Blessed community concert at Strathmore Music Center,

September 18 24th Annual Home Run race

performs Mozart and Dvorak Free event | Open to the community Reserve tickets: 301.816.5086

March 10 Interfaith leaders seminar and luncheon

Robinson Youth Philanthropy program for high school students kicks off its seventh year. Acting as a foundation board, students review grant proposals and learn about tzedakah. First meeting is January 31. Learn more at 301.816.7746

Volunteer opportunities Prospective volunteers may schedule interviews on December 1 and 8, 4:00 – 5:00 p.m. and December 20, 9:00 a.m. - noon Call Gail Dym, 301.770.8333 New volunteer orientations take place each month.

FEBRUARY

Open House at Ring House 1:00 -3:00 p.m. Open to the community Tour our independent living residence, enjoy refreshments, and learn about surprisingly affordable options. RSVP: 301.816.5052

Minyan 11 Community Members of the community are invited to join us for worship. 3:30 p.m. | Wasserman Residence Refreshments following services

Brunch 21 Bagel 9:30 a.m. | Wasserman Residence Complimentary event RSVP: www.smithlifecommunities.org or 301.770.8329

Volunteer, Jared Pollack

To register and learn more about community events, resident programs, and news for families, visit www.smithlifecommunities.org

How to Reach Us n Cohen-Rosen House n ElderSAFE Center n H irsh Health ebrew Home n H 301.816.5050 301.816.5099 Center Post-Acute Care www.cohen-rosen.org www.eldersafe.org 301.816.5004 Center and long-term care n L andow House n R evitz House n Ring House 301.770.8476 301.816.5050 301.770.8450 301.816.5012 www.hebrew-home.org www.landowhouse.org www.revitzhouse.org www.ringhouse.org Page 8 | December 2015

Facebook.com/CESLC @CESLCHHGW www.youtube.com/c/hebrew-homeorg

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5

Say you saw it in the Beacon

Travel

Leisure &

The 250-room Biltmore, in Asheville, N.C., is the largest private home in the country. Read about this and other attractions on page 51.

Monterey: natural and celebrity attractions

Cozy Carmel-by-the-Sea Located at the southern end of the peninsula, the town of Carmel-by-the-Sea looks as if it sprang to life from a book of fairy tales. Cottages with peaked thatched roofs, curving eaves, rounded doors and asymmetrical stone chimneys designed by Hugh Comstock in the 1920s dot the town. The first two cottages, fittingly, were named Hansel and Gretel. While some are private residences, oth-

ers house stores and restaurants, like Tuck Box, a tiny stucco restaurant with flower boxes and a red and white striped awning that serves lunch and afternoon tea. The Lilliputian House of Sweets, with stucco walls and a mossy roof, sells homemade fudge and licorice imported from Australia, Holland, Finland and many other countries. Clint Eastwood served as mayor of the 3,800-resident town from 1986 to 1988. However, he wasn’t the one who enacted some of its idiosyncratic laws. For instance, wearing high heels over two inches requires a permit. While the local police do not cite those in violation of the ordinance, this peculiar law was authored by the city attorney in the 1920s to defend the city from lawsuits resulting from wearers of high-heeled shoes tripping over irregular pavement distorted by tree roots. No chain restaurants or stores are permitted within town limits. Early leaders wanted the village to avoid becoming “citified,” so there are no house numbers or streetlights. Those seeking directions receive hints like “fifth house on the east side of Torres Street, green trim, with a driftwood fence.” (The city of Carmel starts at the borders of Carmel-by-the-Sea and does not have the same restrictions). Canine residents are king in Carmel. They can run leash-free on the beach at the end of Ocean Avenue, which slopes steeply out of the business district down to

By Barbara Ruben On a crescent of rock-strewn coast that juts from central California, John Steinbeck set one of his most acclaimed novels, Clint Eastwood was once mayor, Doris Day owns a hotel where dogs are revered guests, and actors like Bill Murray and Ray Romano tee off at a world-renowned gold course. While the Monterey Peninsula has a celebrity pedigree, it is also famed for some of the state’s more spectacular coastline and home to some non-human icons as well, including back-paddling sea otters, barking sea lions, and cypress trees that thrive on moisture from coastal fog during the area’s long dry spells. Located 120 miles south of San Francisco and 345 miles north of Los Angeles, the Monterey Peninsula includes four primary towns: Carmel-by-the-Sea, Pebble Beach, Pacific Grove and Monterey, each with their own personalities and attractions.

That’s some water hazard at the Pebble Beach Golf Links! The course — one of three that overlook the Pacific Ocean in the area of Monterey, Calif. — has hosted five U.S. Opens and will host the next in 2019. It was ranked number one on Golf Digest’s list of America’s Greatest Public Courses this year.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CARMELCALIFORNIA.COM

the sea. They are welcome at some of the town’s 60 restaurants (by law they can’t be in the main dining area, but can hang out with their owners when they dine outside, in the lobby and lounges). Many business owners keep water bowls outside for thirsty pooches. More than 500 poodles from across the country descend on Carmel each October for a poodle parade, in which many dogs are dressed to the nines, from sunglasses to feather boas. Animal lover Doris Day, who started a foundation devoted to all creatures great and small, has co-owned the Spanish revival style Cypress Inn in Carmel-by-theSea for the last 30 years. Movies, such as Pillow Talk and Please Don’t Eat the Daisies, play on the TV in the bar. “We firmly believe that pets are an integral part of the family,” the home page of the inn’s website states. “Pets may join their humans throughout the hotel, in the cozy living room for afternoon tea, or in our charming courtyard for breakfast or evening appetizers,” it continues.

Home to writers and artists Carmel-by-the-Sea is home to more than 20 cottages that would look at home in a book of fairytales. Some are residences, and others house businesses, such as the Soiled Doves Bath House, which sells soap and other bath products.

Carmel has also been a haven for artists and writers for the last century. Poet Robinson Jeffers built a house on Scenic

Drive, which curves along the windswept edge of the ocean, using granite boulders from the shore of Carmel Bay. It was here he wrote most of his major works, and today, 65 years after Jeffers’ death, Tor House is open for tours. Writer Jack London also lived in Carmel for a time, as did singer John Denver, who died here in 1997 when his single-engine plane nosedived into the ocean after takeoff from the Monterey Regional Airport. The craggy coast also drew landscape photographer Ansel Adams, who moved to Carmel Highlands a few miles south of town and lived there for 20 years, until his death in 1982. Renowned early-20th century photographer Edwin Westin extensively photographed Point Lobos, now a state reserve just south of Carmel, with gasp-worthy views of crashing waves, sun-bathing sea otters, twisted, flat-topped cypress trees and hiking trails. The work of both photographers is on view and for sale at the Weston Gallery, one of more than 90 galleries in town. There’s even a gallery devoted exclusively to the art of Dr. Seuss. See MONTEREY, page 50

Leisure & Travel | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

Monterey From page 49

Golf courses with a view Just north of Carmel, the unincorporated community of Pebble Beach is best known for its three golf courses that overlook the Pacific Ocean: Spyglass, Poppy Hills and Pebble Beach Golf Links. They are consistently ranked among the top ten courses in the nation. In 1919, green fees at Pebble Beach were $2 for men and $1.50 for women. Rates now range from $350 to $400 per 18-hole round. The AT&T Pebble Beach National ProAm each February draws a host of celebrities for its last day of play. Last year, singers Michael Bolton and Huey Lewis took park, along with actors Craig T. Nelson, Bill Murray and Chris O’Donnell, not to mention former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice.

D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Pebble Beach is also at one end of 17Mile Drive, which hugs the shoreline and is considered by some to be one of the most scenic drives in the world. It is also one of only nine private toll roads in the country, and the only one west of the Mississippi. It’s worth it to pony up the $10 per car to drive a slow arc along the road, which ends in Pacific Grove. Between the views, which seem to get more spectacular around each bend, and the tourists (especially in the summer), be prepared to spend well over an hour on the drive. The often photographed Lone Cypress tree, located near the Pebble Beach end of the drive, is nearly 300 years old. The Monterey Cypress is a species native only to this region, and can live up to 4,000 years.

Aquatic life Monterey dates back more than 400

The Career Gateway! features small classes, 30 hours of intensive training over two weeks, a long-term mentor, and valuable take-home materials This hands-on, five day course will help you: • turbocharge your resume • hone your interviewing skills • learn how to network

WHEN:

• discover the hidden job market • develop personal job search plans...and more

Courses offered monthly for computer-savvy seniors Coming up: January 20, February 22, and April 4, 2016

Call (301) 255-4215 or e-mail JCAUniversity@AccessJCA.org Funded By Montgomery County Aging & Disability Services; e Morris and Gwendolyn Cafritz Foundation and the Jewish Council for the Aging®

Jewish Council for the Aging (JCA)® www.AccessJCA.org

If you go Flights to the tiny Monterey Regional Airport (within a half-hour drive of all four towns) start at around $430 roundtrip on United and Alaska Airlines from Washington-area airports in mid-January. Or visitors can fly into San Francisco and drive two hours along the Pacific Coast Highway to the Monterey Peninsula. The least-expensive flights to San Fran start at about $300 roundtrip on Frontier and Delta Airlines. There is an abundance of lodging throughout this tourist destination. In Carmel-by-the Sea, Tradewinds Carmel has Asian-accented décor, including antique and custom designed furniture from Bali and China, fresh orchids and bamboo fountains. Some rooms have fireplaces and partial ocean views. The hotel has been featured in Architectural Digest. Rooms start at $259 a night. See www.tradewindscarmel.com or call (831) 624-2776. The building that houses the Casanova restaurant in Carmel-by-the-Sea once belonged to a cook for Charlie Chaplin. Diners can eat in a warren of dining rooms, or in a central indoor-outdoor room with a tree growing through the ceiling. The most intriguing room holds just one table — dined at by Vincent Van Gogh in his final days and imported from France. The restaurant serves Italian specialties, such as a melt-in-your-mouth spinach gnocchi enveloped in parmesan cream sauce, and fettuccine with lobster, clams, mussels, prawns and white wine. Dinner entrees are $22 to $53. For more down-to-Earth prices, try one of the many hotels in Pacific Grove. Sunset Lodge (www.gosunsetinn.com, 831-375-3529)

Butterfly City USA Laid-back Pacific Grove lacks the glitterati of Carmel and Pebble Beach, as well as the busy streets of Monterey around its world-famous aquarium. But here, you can visit the beach on a summer afternoon and only have to share it with maybe a dozen others. Also, there are many hotels just a few blocks from the ocean (updated from their 1950s motel origins) that are much less expensive than ones in surrounding towns. And the center of town boasts numerous

C G

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Victorian homes, some of which are bedand-breakfasts. Each October, the population of the city’s non-human inhabitants swells by tens of thousands as monarch butterflies cluster in pine and eucalyptus trees to spend the winter at the Monarch Grove Sanctuary. The sanctuary is run by volunteers and open to the public. It was created after residents voted on a butterfly tax to fund its upkeep, earning Pacific Grove the nickname Butterfly Town USA.

See MONTEREY, page 51

!"#""#$ %$&#'

WHERE: 12320 Parklawn Dr., Rockville, MD 20852 FEE: $75

years. Spanish merchant Sebastian Vizcaino was the first European to set foot on the Monterey Peninsula in 1602, and christened Monterey after the viceroy of New Spain, Count de Monte Rey. After changing hands a few times, the city of Monterey eventually served as the original capital of California when the state constitution was signed here in 1849. The city’s biggest draw is the Monterey Bay Aquarium, which attracts nearly 2 million visitors each year to view the 300,000 marine plants and animals to be found there. One wing has a million gallon tank that depicts the open ocean. A three-story “kelp forest and deep seas” display features creatures never before brought to the surface. Outside, the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary covers 5,312 square miles — one and a half times the size of the largest national park in the continental U.S. At its center is an underwater canyon twice as deep as the Grand Canyon. It was in Monterey that native son John Steinbeck wrote Cannery Row. The novel is set in Monterey during the Depression, on a street lined with sardine canneries. In reality, nearly 250,000 tons of sardines were processed here in 1945, the year Cannery Row was published. Preserved one-room cabins where the workers lived can be visited near the aquarium. The National Steinbeck Center, a 37,000 square-foot facility, is believed to be the largest facility devoted to a single American author. Other cultural attractions include the widely acclaimed Monterey Jazz Festival, which takes place each September and is the longest continuously running jazz festival in the world.

Serving Arlington Seniors Since 1973

Call to schedule a personal tour. 703-528-0162 4435 N. Pershing Drive Arlington, VA 22203 www.culpeppergarden.org VA Relay # 800-828-1120 !!"#$%&'(#)*("+$,(-).&%&/(0(%'1)2%,3) 4"!5(--$!%&6).&%&/(0(%')!5)7('$"(0(%') !008%$'$(-)*$%,()9:;9

Affordable Senior Apartments & Assisted Living

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Leisure & Travel

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5

Asheville, N.C. — more than the Biltmore modernist Sierra Nevada brewery near the airport. Sierra Nevada, which opened earlier this year, also has an excellent restaurant. Downtown, the Black Mountain College Museum at 56 Broadway has expanded. Through exhibitions and programs, the museum celebrates the ideals and legacy of a remarkable experimental college founded outside Asheville in 1933. The school lasted just 24 years, but its faculty was a Who’s Who of avant-garde artists and intellectuals, including Willem and Elaine de Kooning, Merce Cunningham, John Cage and Buckminster Fuller. Don’t miss the honey bar at the Asheville Bee Charmer, 38 Battery Park Ave. The shop sells 50 varieties of honey, many from North Carolina beekeepers, but also imported from France, Italy, Spain, New Zealand, Ireland and Scotland. You’ll be stunned by how different honey can taste — fruity, woodsy, earthy, spicy — depending on where bees collect their nectar. The Center for Honey Bee Research and the “Bee City USA” initiative supporting pollinators and beekeepers are also headquartered in Asheville.

Monterey

While the hotel choices are abundant in Pacific Grove, restaurants are not. Head a few miles up the coast to Monterey for a variety of food in a range of prices. Hula’s Island Grill is a throwback to the tiki restaurants and bars of the ‘50s and ‘60s, popular with locals and tourists alike. Try the blackened ahi tuna steak sandwich with sundried tomato pesto aioli for $17. To learn more, see www.hulastiki.com or call (831) 655-4852. Additional travel information is available from the Monterey County Convention and Visitors Bureau at www.seemonterey.com or

From page 50 is just a block from the beach and starts at $99 a night, while ocean-front Lover’s Point Inn (www.loverspointinnpg.com, 831-373-4771) starts at $119. The107-acre Asilomar Conference Ground (www.visitasilomar.com, 888-635-5310) overlooking Monterrey Bay includes both modern and historic Arts & Crafts style lodging built between 1913 and 1928. Rates start at $159 a night.

PHOTO BY DEREK OLSON PHOTOGRAPHY/SHUTTERSTOCK

By Beth J. Harpaz Asheville, N.C., is an old soul of a city renewed by a hipster vibe. Attractions range from new beer breweries and a honey bar (!) to the 120-year-old Biltmore mansion. You can see artists at work in the River Arts District, then go for a hike in the Blue Ridge Mountains. For some time, Asheville’s funky River Arts District has been home to artists, entrepreneurs and eateries in the old industrial area around the French Broad River. But the neighborhood continues to add interesting venues. The Smoky Park Supper Club, built from recycled shipping containers and specializing in wood-fired cooking, opened in September. The Smoky Mountain Adventure Center, which features an indoor climbing gym as well as rentals for bikes, kayaks, canoes and other gear, opened in November. And while the Asheville area already has more than two dozen beer breweries, a $175 million New Belgium facility with a tasting room is expected to be brewing by January. Other breweries range from the artsy hole-in-the-wall Wedge Brewing in the River Arts District, to the gleaming,

The Smoky Mountains surround downtown Asheville, N.C., home to a variety of attractions for tourists — from the Biltmore, to breweries, to a honey bar at a shop that sells more than 50 varieties of honey.

Classic attractions For a look at life in the Gilded Age, visit the 250-room Biltmore, built by George Vanderbilt. It’s the largest private home in

1-888-221-1010. Also see the tourism website for Carmel-

the country, and it attracted 1.5 million visitors in the past year. See ASHEVILLE, page 53

by-the-Sea at www.carmelcalifornia.com or call 1-800-550-4333.

Leisure & Travel | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Phone home from overseas affordably Even if you don’t intend to call home Local or global SIM card regularly when you’re outside the country, Lots of experts say that the best apyou may well need to be availproach is to unlock your phone able in case some problem (disconnecting it from your arises, either where you are current service provider) if it or at home. isn’t already unlocked, and You probably already know then buy and install a SIM that using your regular wirecard that either provides you less phone can run up a huge with a local number in the bill: Even with an “internacountry you are visiting, or tional” package, you’ll pay functions globally. (A SIM card close to $1 a minute each for is a removable memory chip both incoming and outgoing inside a cell phone that has an TRAVEL TIPS calls — plus, maybe, a conidentification number unique By Ed Perkins nect charge. to the owner. It stores personal Of the big wireless providers, T-Mobile of- data, including information about your cell fers no-charge foreign roaming in Canada phone carrier and plan.) and Mexico, and its Simple Choice plan lets I’m testing a global SIM card from you call from Europe and other popular desti- Telestial.com that I obtained and installed nations for 20 cents a minute. But with the before I left home. With this package, you other carriers, using your regular phone can get two phone numbers: one based in the be expensive. United States, and a global number based Of course, if you plan to use your phone in the UK. only in emergencies, paying $1 a minute or Rates to call the U.S. are 15 cents a so may not be a deal-breaker. But if you minute from most of Europe; 45 cents a want to talk a bit more than that, and stay minute from New Zealand. Incoming calls with your current carrier, you still have cost nothing through the global number; some options. 15 cents a minute from the U.S. number, I’m currently testing the two most likely all with no connecting fee. Costs for text approaches while on a trip to New Zealand. messages are about the same. Local calls

within a foreign country cost the same, or somewhat more. The Telestial SIM card cost me $29, and that includes $20 of phone credit. I can arrange for automatic replenishment of credit through a credit card. (You can also buy a local SIM card on arrival at most international airports. That option may be cheaper.) The big advantage to inserting a SIM card into your unlocked phone is that you’re always available, as long as you’re in an area with wireless service. People can call you 24/7. (You may have a problem with Apple phones, which can be difficult to unlock.)

VOIP app For a serious phone habit, you can’t beat an Internet-based calling program. As long as you’re connected to a Wi-Fi network, you can call anywhere in the world for 2 to 3 cents a minute. And calls are free to and from other folks who have the same app as you do. I’m testing the system from wirelesstraveler.com, but several others provide a similar deal. Costs per minute are based solely on the country you’re calling; not the country from which you place the call. Calls to the U.S. cost 2 cents a minute

from most of Europe, and 3 cents a minute from New Zealand. Most incoming calls cost 3 cents a minute. You download the free app, for either Android or Apple smartphones, install it, select a payment system, and you’re ready to go. You get a U.S. number, which people can use to call you as if they were making a local U.S. call. Ease of use and voice clarity are a bit better than with the SIM card. Several travel companies offer their own “private brand” version of WirelessTraveler, with preinstalled connections. The big problem with VOIP calling is that you have to be logged onto a local WiFi network to make or receive calls. And logging in can be a bit cumbersome, at least for someone with a fat thumb who has lots of trouble entering network names and passwords from one of those tiny “keyboards” that mobile phones provide. Still, you can’t beat the low rates — especially the fact that calls are free to others on the same system. The takeaway is that both approaches work as advertised. Pick your preference — or go with both. Send e-mail to Ed Perkins at eperkins@mind.net. © 2015 Tribune Content Agency, LLC

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5

Asheville From page 51 The grounds, designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, are also spectacular. They include waterways, winding roads, gardens, farms, a winery and gorgeous mountain views. The new Village Hotel on Biltmore opens on Dec. 1. Nearby, the North Carolina Arboretum, located on 426 acres in the Pisgah National Forest, offers serene gardens, wooded trails, art exhibits, bonsai and more. Downtown, take a stroll around Pack Square Park, and then tour the Thomas Wolfe Memorial, which includes the writer’s birthplace and a nearby boardinghouse run by his mother. Wolfe’s barely fictionalized depiction of his hometown in his 1929 best-selling novel, Look Homeward, Angel, upset the locals so much that it was initially banned in Asheville. Actor Jude Law visited the memorial to prepare for his role portraying Wolfe in a movie due out early next year. The movie is called Genius, and it tells the story of Max Perkins, the New York editor who championed the work of Wolfe and other famous writers of his era, including F. Scott Fitzgerald and Ernest Hemingway. Fitzgerald also spent time in Asheville, notably at the Grove Park Inn, a beautiful old resort established in 1913 when Asheville was a destination for those seek-

ing the healthful effects of mountain air. Drop by the inn even if you only have time for a cocktail on the Sunset Terrace or a quick look at the lobby’s massive stone fireplaces and grandfather clock. The front desk offers free pamphlets for self-guided tours; displays tell the story of visits by presidents and celebrities.

If you go You can explore the River Arts District or downtown in a few hours, but you’ll need nearly a full day to do the Biltmore justice. Arrive hungry: Asheville has great food. Favorites include barbecue at 12 Bones Smokehouse, 5 Riverside Drive; upscale fare at The Admiral, 400 Haywood; fried chicken at Rocky’s, 1455 Patton Ave.; heavenly biscuits and comfort food at Tupelo Honey Cafe, 12 College St.; and cocktails at the sophisticated Sovereign Remedies, 29 N. Market St. Make time for the great outdoors. Even if all you do is drive a stretch of the Blue Ridge Parkway, the scenic overlooks will lift your soul. For hike recommendations and other visitor information, go to www.exploreasheville.com. Asheville is 470 miles from downtown Washington. The least expensive flights to Asheville’s small airport from the Washington area start at $255 roundtrip on Delta from BWI Airport. — AP

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Leisure & Travel

More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Style Arts &

Gloria Steinem received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2013. Read more about her life on page 58.

Dark comedy explores family dynamics Sons of the Prophet blends graceful, metaphoric imagery with down-to-earth melancholy, a blend that weaves in and out of this dark-but-funny comedy.

Local premiere The play is receiving its area premiere at Theater J, but has done well elsewhere. It had a long off-Broadway run, and was a finalist for the 2012 Pulitzer Prize for Drama. It won the New York Drama Critics’ Circle Award and the Outer Critics Circle Award for Best Play, 2011-12. So it has pedigree a-plenty. And here it benefits from deft direction from Gregg Henry, working with a fine cast of DC regulars. So, is it worth seeing? Yeah, it is. It’s good. Not great, but good. Execution on this stage makes up for much of the diffuse focus by the playwright, but not quite enough to get it into the “must-see” category. About that diffuse focus: Karam trods just a bit too much ground here, the play running about two hours without intermission. There’s assimilation: Joseph’s family has emigrated from Lebanon, and they are

Now at Toby's Dinner Theatre Through January 10

Great Gift Ideas for the Holidays... Subscriptions and Holiday Gift Certificates! Based on availability. Due to the nature of theatre bookings, all shows, dates and times are subject to change.

TOBY’S DINNER THEATRE OF COLUMBIA 5900 Symphony Woods Road • CALL 410-730-8311

D in

ner & Sho w

TobysDinnerTheatre.com RESERVE YOUR SEATS TODAY!

PHOTO BY TERESA WOOD

By Michael Toscano “I didn’t fall from grace. I think I tore my meniscus.” That snippet of dialogue, early in playwright Stephen Karam’s serio-comic Sons of the Prophet, now onstage at Theater J, neatly encapsulates much of what is to be found here. The line is uttered by Joseph Douaihy (Chris Dinolfo), a 29-year-old American of Lebanese descent living in small-town Pennsylvania. Nazareth, actually. Down the road from Bethlehem. He has a lot to cope with, besides geographical dislocation. His father has just died of a heart attack, which may or may not have been brought on by a student athlete’s stupid prank on a rural road. A former star runner with Olympic aspirations, Joseph’s body is now afflicted with mysterious ailments, his knees “radiating hot pain.” He has an eccentric younger brother and an aged and unpredictable uncle to take care of. And he’s forced to work for a wine-tippling, pill-seeking, self-absorbed, manipulative and slightly crazy boss just for the health insurance. (A star turn here from the estimable Brigid Cleary.)

Tony Strowd Hamilton plays Charles, and Michael Willis is Uncle Bill in Theater J’s Washington-area premiere of Sons of the Prophet, a melancholy comedy that explores suffering, pain, guilt and forgiveness. The play was a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 2012, and did well off-Broadway.

distantly related to Kahlil Gibran. The value of cultural heritage and religion are examined. The link to Gibran generates several sub-plots and provides a theatrical motif: scenes are labeled with descriptors including, “On Work,” “On Pain,” “On Reason & Passion,” etc., homage to the homilies in Gibran’s long-selling, “The Prophet.” Both brothers are gay, generating emotional baggage about the “end of the line,” as one of them describes it. The central theme is suffering, pain —

both psychological and physical — and how people cope with both and sometimes mix the two. Toss into the mix some guilt, forgiveness and the unpredictable chaos of life. That’s a lot. Even for two uninterrupted hours.

Multi-layered acting But Henry and company get it right. Dinolfo plays Joseph with a winsome charm masking deep emotional turmoil. The See DARK COMEDY, page 56

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Arts & Style

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5

From page 1 fun? Is it boring?’” he said. Skorton likes getting out and talking to visitors when he has time. But not everyone has praise, he says. One father he met in a Smithsonian sculpture garden wanted to know why his daughter couldn’t climb on the sculptures, for example. Skorton said he has visited each of the Smithsonian’s museums and galleries, though he wants to go back to some for formal tours. He’s also been several times to the Smithsonian’s National Zoo, where in September he joined first lady Michelle Obama and China’s first lady, Peng Liyuan, for Bei Bei’s naming. (And, no, even Skorton didn’t actually get to meet the zoo’s most famous resident). In October, he visited the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory in Massachusetts, and in January he will visit the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute in Panama. Skorton says he is working to learn more about the Smithsonian and its holdings. The doctor in him couldn’t resist taking a peek at the Smithsonian’s collection of stethoscopes, some of which will soon be displayed along with some of his own in a conference room next to his office. And during a behind-the-scenes tour of the National Museum of American History, he put on latex gloves to hold a baseball glove worn by Sandy Koufax, whom Skorton saw pitch as a boy when he lived in Los Angeles. But when Skorton asked to put his hand inside the glove, he was told: “No, you cannot.’’ Skorton said he thought about pointing out, “I’m the Secretary.’’ But he didn’t. He said the moment reminded him of two things: that he still has “a lot to learn,’’ and that it’s his job to ensure that the Smithsonian’s “stuff’’ is preserved for future generations.

Jerry Lewis at the Library of Congress Like the Smithsonian, the Library of Congress includes millions of items, from books to recordings to maps to photographs. It is, in fact, the largest museum in the world. An extensive archive from comedian Jerry Lewis’ career, including rarely seen films, long-lost TV recordings and home videos, will soon have a new home there. The collection includes thousands of documents and recordings. Lewis, 89, is donating some items, while others are being purchased by the library from his personal archive. Some materials will be available immediately to researchers in Washington. The archive chronicles Lewis’ more than 70 years in comedy. Conservators said the recordings will fill significant gaps in TV history, including Lewis’ appearances with Dean Martin on NBC’s “Colgate Comedy Hour” and on “The Tonight Show.” Why are those shows missing? Blame the economy, or perhaps the environment. Through the 1970s, the network used to reuse video tape, recording over older shows. Many recordings from the 1950s and 1960s don’t exist anywhere else, said Mike Mashon, head of the library’s moving image section. Hence the value of Lewis’ personal collection. Lewis said he has dedicated his life to making people laugh. He was born into a vaudeville family and began performing at age 5. “If I get more than three people in a room, I do a number,” he said in a statement. “Knowing that the Library of Congress was interested in acquiring my life’s work was one of the biggest thrills of my life,” he continued. “It’s comforting to know that this small piece of the world of comedy will be preserved and available for future generations.”

PHOTO BY CARRIE NELSON/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Smithsonian

Highlights from the collection include 35 mm prints of many of Lewis most popular films, including The Bellboy, The Errand Boy and The Family Jewels. There is also test footage from films, including a silent comedy filmed on the set of The Patsy, and rare footage of Martin and Lewis performing their nightclub act. Even when he wasn’t shooting a film or TV feature, Lewis was still often performing for fun. Home movies capture some of the “boundless creativity this man had,” even if it was just for his own pleasure, Mashon said. Lewis even produced fully scripted movies at home, starring some of his neighbors. The recordings and materials will join the library’s existing com- The Library of Congress has acquired extensive new archives from the personal collection of comeedy collection, which documents dian Jerry Lewis, including copies of rarely seen humorists such as Bob Hope, films, early television shows and home videos. Groucho Marx, Lucille Ball, Desi Arnaz and Johnny Carson. said the collection will give the world a Curators were particularly interested in more complete picture of Lewis as a perLewis’ archive because, Mashon said, he former, director, producer, artist, educator has been one of the most creative figures and philanthropist. in American pop culture in the late 20th “He is one of America’s funniest men, century — excelling on stage, screen, who has demonstrated that comedy as a radio and television. By keeping and or- medium for laughter is one of humanity’s ganizing so many of his materials, Lewis is greatest gifts,” Billington said. “an archivist’s dream,” Mashon added. — AP, with additional reporting by James Billington, Librarian of Congress, Barbara Ruben

The iconic musical like you’ve never seen it before

“Simply gorgeous!” ~The Washington Post

Nov 28 & 29 at THEARC Theater Specially priced Ward 7 & 8 tickets Up to $15 off select tickets for residents of Ward 7 & 8, proof of residency required.

Visit THEARC or call 202.889.8150 today

Dec 3–27 at the Warner Theatre Tickets start at $33

The perfect holiday outing

washingtonballet.org 202.397.SEAT

December 8 – January 24

Esmiana Jani, photo by Dean Alexander

Arts & Style | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Dark comedy

BEACON BITS

Ongoing

ASSIST ASSAULT VICTIMS

From page 54

Montgomery County needs volunteers for its Victim Assistance and Sexual Assault Program (VASAP). Volunteers provide 24-hour crisis counseling and companion services at Montgomery County hospitals and police stations for victims of rape and sexual assault. Bi-lingual volunteers are encouraged to apply. All potential volunteers must attend a training program, which covers crisis intervention skills and the specialized knowledge of the emotional, medical and legal issues that victims face. They must commit to serve for one year, in an on-call capacity, for one 12-hour shift or two six-hour shifts per week. All volunteers must be at least 21 years of age, Montgomery County residents, have a valid driver’s license and immediate access to transportation. For more information or to arrange an interview, call (240) 777-1355 or visit www.montgomerycountymd.gov/vasap.

Going Home Cremation Service Beverly L. Heckrotte, P.A.

Personalized

Professional

Dignified

Affordable

• Specializing in direct cremation • Return of the urn and memorial merchandise to your home • Serving Maryland, Washington, D.C., and N. Virginia

(301) 854-9038

or 1 (866) 728-4663 (toll free) call for your FREE information package

Visit us at www.GoingHomeCremation.com

Best Senior Care Gets Thumbs Up

• Companionship, Meal Assistance, Medication Reminders, Personal Hygiene Assistance, Grocery Shopping, and much more • A family company: You will always speak directly with our owner • Only highly qualiﬁed and experienced caregivers • Fully licensed, bonded, and insured

301-717-2212

www.bestseniorcare.us RSA # R 2041

character is hard to know, as Joseph wears a number of masks, depending on the situation he is in. Dinolfo manages constant warmth that keeps us in his corner. The actor has a knack for facial expressions that say much, without giving too much away. Cleary is given equal billing, even though her charcter, Gloria the boss, is a supporting role. It befits both her position in the area theater community and the heft she gives to her work here. Every conversation Gloria has is fraught with some needy grasping, and Cleary affects a hard, brittle voice that tells us the woman is barely holding it together. Cleary pushes it as far as one can to get laughs, such as in her character’s quick interjection meant to cover a socially awkward moment: “You should know I’m clinically depressed.” Big laugh on that one. The story plays out against Luciana Stecconi’s set, a cold expanse of brutalist architecture. Its faux concrete looks like the exterior of a hulking building like Boston City Hall or the ugly Hoover FBI headquarters, rather than the interior spaces called for. It’s an oddly cold choice for a play where intimate human emotions are exposed and rubbed raw. Moving the story line forward is the way the Douaihy family deals with the young football player, Vin, who may have caused the father’s death, which still has them reeling. As Vin (played by Jaysen Wright) faces not punishment, but sanctions, they have to decide about forgiveness. When he goes to their home, emotions and action both intensify and ground the play. The brothers, especially younger Charles (irrepressibly played by Tony Stroud Hamilton), are written as a bit too glib with their easy response, and the playwright confuses things with Charles’ attraction to the athlete.

Expires 12/31/15

WB 12/15

Show details Sons of the Prophet continues through Dec. 20 at Theater J, in the Aaron & Cecile Goldman Theater at the Washington DC Jewish Community Center. The center is located at 1529 16th St. NW in Washington, four blocks east of Dupont Circle. Show times are Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday evenings at 7:30 p.m.; Friday and Saturday evenings at 8 p.m.; and Saturday and Sunday afternoons at 3 p.m. An additional matinee performance is scheduled for noon on Wednesday, Dec. 2. There is no evening performance on Sunday, Dec. 20. The 7:30 p.m. performance on Sunday, Dec. 6 has open-captioning for the hearing-impaired. In addition, a number of performances will feature post-show discussions. Tickets are $37 to $67, with senior and military discounts available. Some Sunday evening performances are $35 for all seats. Call Box Office Tickets at 1-800-494-8497 or visit www.boxofficetickets.com to buy tickets. See http://washingtondcjcc.org/centerfor-arts/theater-j for more about Theater J. Street parking nearby is limited. Colonial Parking Garages are located at 1616 P St. NW and 1515 15th St. NW. Tickets are no longer validated for a discount. If you’re going via Metro, take the Red Line to Dupont Circle Station. Theater J is accessible to the physically challenged and offers free assisted listening devices.

BEACON BITS

Ongoing

Complimentary Consultation and Assessment

It is only Michael Willis’ layered and vivid work as old Uncle Bill, and his obvious struggle to reconcile his pain, his prejudices, and his religious values that keeps these scenes on an even keel. Director Henry allows his cast to flout any idea of dramatic constancy, which approximates real life with real people. It’s a wise — no, sensible — choice with this material. The subtle irony of life is allowed to come through, even via occasional bouts of broad comedy.

MONTGOMERY COUNTY SHUTTLES Montgomery County Recreation is now offering curb-to-curb and

fixed-route transportation, Monday through Friday, to the county’s five senior centers. Residents 55 and older are eligible. For more information or to request a ride, call the Community Facilities & Programs Team at (240) 777-4980.

You may qualify for services at no cost! Call now for details.

Contact MC311 for Montgomery County Government M Information and Services Call 311 to Get it Done! Tweet @311MC311 Visit MC311.com Call 240-777-0311

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Arts & Style

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5

Handel’s Messiah Nathalie Stutzmann, conductor Emöke Barath, soprano Sara Mingardo, contralto Lawrence Wiliford, tenor Burak Bilgili, bass University of Maryland Concert Choir Edward Maclary, director

HANDEL: Messiah THU., DEC. 17 AT 7 P.M. FRI., DEC. 18 AT 8 P.M. SAT., DEC. 19 AT 8 P.M. SUN., DEC. 20 AT 1:30 P.M.

SUN. MATINEE

Prokofiev’s Violin Concerto No. 1 Sibelius’s Symphony No. 2 Neeme Järvi, conductor Baiba Skride, violin

ELLER: Five Pieces for String Orchestra PROKOFIEV: Violin Concerto No. 1 SIBELIUS: Symphony No. 2 THU., JAN. 14 AT 7 FRI., JAN. 15 AT 8 SAT., JAN. 16 AT 8

Daniel Müller-Schott plays Dvorˇák The Brahms Piano Quartet

Daniel Müller-Schott, cello

Christoph Eschenbach, conductor Daniel Müller-Schott, cello

ROUSE: Phaethon DVORˇ ÁK: Cello Concerto BRAHMS: Piano Quartet (orch. Schoenberg) THU., JAN. 21 AT 7 FRI., JAN. 22 AT 8 SAT., JAN. 23 AT 8

Baiba Skride, violin

Stephanie J. Block

The von Trapps and Stephanie J. Block Family Holiday Steven Reineke, conductor

It’s a holiday concert filled with the joy of singing when the great-grandchildren of the cherished Sound of Music von Trapp family join musical theater star Stephanie J. Block (Elphaba in Broadway’s Wicked, Liza Minnelli in Broadway’s The Boy from Oz) and The Washington Chorus conducted by Principal Pops Conductor Steven Reineke. You may even get a glimpse of Santa! THU., DEC. 10 AT 7 FRI., DEC. 11 AT 8 SAT., DEC. 12 AT 2 & 8

The von Trapps

ALL PERFORMANCES IN THE CONCERT HALL

SAT. MATINEE

David and Alice Rubenstein are the Presenting Underwriters of the NSO. The NSO Music Director Chair is generously endowed by Victoria and Roger Sant.

TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

The Blue Series is sponsored by United Technologies Corporation.

KENNEDY-CENTER.ORG (202) 467-4600

The NSO’s European Tour concerts in Spain are sponsored by

Tickets also available at the Box Office. Groups call (202) 416-8400.

Additional support for the 2015–2016 NSO Pops Season is provided by The Honorable Barbara H. Franklin and Mr. Wallace Barnes.

Arts & Style | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Gloria Steinem, on her life ‘on the road’ By Jocelyn Noveck Yes, she’s a driving force behind the women’s movement that transformed the lives of millions. But Gloria Steinem doesn’t, er, drive. As in, doesn’t even have a license. Steinem devotes a chapter to this interesting fact in her entertaining new memoir, My Life on the Road, a chronicle of her itinerant life. Though she has a wonderfully lived-in Manhattan home, chock-full of mementoes from a life of advocating and organizing around the country and across the globe, she spends only half her time there, at most. The rest is, well, on the road. But not behind the wheel.

And there’s a reason. “I would miss something if I drove,’’ Steinem said. It’s about communication. She loves talking to taxi drivers anywhere in the world, or arriving at a university for a speech and being driven by her hosts, who tell her what’s going on around campus. “That’s really crucial time,’’ she said. “I would not want to miss that.’’ Steinem, now 81, has been working on her memoir for a good 20 years, on and off. Traveling wreaks havoc on one’s writing schedule, not to mention how it helps one procrastinate. And when we say travel, we mean to places like Botswana, where she spent her 80th birthday riding elephants. Or to North

Korea, where, in May, she was part of a group of peace activists crossing the Demilitarized Zone by bus. In fact, Steinem said, she travels more now than ever before.

Don’t call it a memoir Which is why she decided to not write a traditional memoir, but a road book. “That word ‘memoir’ sounds pretentious, anyway,’’ Steinem said with a smile, settling into her living room sofa with her cat nestling contentedly in her lap for an interview. “Also, I’ve been writing books and articles and essays this whole time, but it somehow dawned on me that I was writing least about what I was doing most. The fact that I was on the road more than half of my life was invisible.’’ But it’s not just about recounting her own experiences; Steinem wants to encourage others — especially women — to head out, “because the road doesn’t belong to women, and it should. Women aren’t ‘supposed’ to go out on the road.’’ She also, incidentally, would like politicians to live up to their claims that they know the country. “They ought to be forced to go on the road for two years for every term they’re in office, because then they would stop saying ‘the American people’ as if there’s one,’’ she said. “Because it’s just so wildly diverse.’’ There’s yet another reason for the onthe-road theme. Steinem fears that in our increasingly digital world, we may be forgetting the value of in-person communication. “Not to diminish the importance of the Web,’’ she said. “But it should be also obvious that people can’t empathize with each other unless we’re in the same room.’’

are many — are often about chance encounters with people who made piercing observations, or lent unexpected support. She said she and her co-founders never would have started Ms. magazine, for example, if not for traveling the country. “Everybody in New York said starting a magazine like that was hopeless,’’ she said. But speaking with women across the United States convinced her that “the women’s movement wasn’t just 12 crazy ladies in New York and LA.’’ It was also a woman in an audience who made Steinem laugh — then, and now — when discussing the constant problem of being judged by her looks. She points out in her book that she’d been called pretty before she became a feminist, and suddenly, as a feminist, she was called beautiful. The subtext, she said, was that feminists aren’t supposed to be attractive, and also that if she could get a man, why would she need equal pay? But an elderly woman stood up in an audience one day and told Steinem: “Don’t worry, honey. It’s important for somebody who could play the game — and win — to say, ‘The game isn’t worth (expletive).’” Because of her status among women, Steinem is often asked where she stands politically, especially in election season. She supported Hillary Rodham Clinton for the Democratic nomination in 2008 — a decision she said she made purely on the basis of Clinton’s experience in Washington versus that of Barack Obama, whom she wholeheartedly supported in the general election. In 2008, she didn’t think America was ready to elect a woman. Now, she said, “I think we’ve been able to see more women in authority in the public world. And part of that has been changed by Hillary her-

Unexpected encounters And so Steinem’s anecdotes — and there

Wishes THE ENTIRE COMMUNITY A

Happy Chanukah washingtonjewishweek.com

301-230-2222

See GLORIA STEINEM, page 61

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Arts & Style

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5

Checking in with a financial dinosaur Advancing age jumps up and bites us in too old to remember. “You probably pay all your bills by ways that are usually very predictable. A glance in the mirror reveals wrinkles. check, too,” he guessed. “Good guess,” I said. “I alA sprint for the bus causes ways have, and I always will.” breathlessness. A pair of My friend wasn’t done with pants that used to fit perfectly his sermon. He rhapsodized now has no chance. about how easy it is to pay bills But the other day, I added online. He pointed out that payanother surefire “tell” to the ing bills by check requires you list. We are getting old if we to buy stamps and drop the bill still write checks. in a mailbox — an expensive, I confess that I do, and have since I was 17 years old. It’s clumsy and somewhat unreliable method in today’s world. what I’m used to. I don’t mind HOW I SEE IT And he insisted that paying all the penmanship that writ- By Bob Levey ing a check demands. It’s a by computer creates a helpful trail that will allow a dispute to be settled in habit, and I see no reason to break it. Others see lots of reasons to break it, in- my favor. If I write a check, it’s my word against the bank’s, he said. They’ve got a cluding my recent dinner companion. He insisted on covering the check with his whole lot more weapons, a whole lot more pacredit card so he could gobble up the bonus tience, and a whole lot more dollars than I do. I granted all these points. And then I airline miles. I insisted on paying my share in ticked off a few of my own. cash. After a short struggle, he agreed. • Writing a check is satisfying. ClickBut then I hunted in my wallet and found myself a couple of bucks short click-clicking doesn’t give you a sense of fi(some things never change). So I told him nality. When I put the last flourishes on my signature, yet again, it says: “I’m signing I’d write him a check. This led to various colorful forms of off on this, world. This is Bob’s money!” • Writing a check is easy. I don’t have to abuse. My friend told me that I was crazy, old-fashioned, inefficient, non-digital, hide- remember a password. I don’t have to bound, stodgy and inflexible. Perhaps he jump through a million screens to get also called me terminally unattractive. I’m where I want to get. I just find the good old

pad of checks and start scrawling. • Writing a check helps my financial discipline. Even before I write a check, I have to enter the amount of it in my checkbook ledger. This forces a very useful moment of reckoning. Am I spending too much? Am I spending too little? I rarely confront these questions, if ever, when I use a computer. • Writing a check avoids hackers. Do you really feel safe when your financial information and access are floating around in electron-land? If so, you have a stronger stomach than I do. Yes, hackers can invade my checking account, too. But so far, they’ve left my paltry nest egg alone. That

FROM PAGE 60 ANSWERS TO SCRABBLE

suggests that they’ll continue to do so. • Writing a check is personal. When I paid my friend for my share of that dinner check, I wrote on the message line: “Thanks, pal.” If I did that on a website, I’d probably be breaking some federal law. • Writing a check keeps my arithmetical skills alive. I’ve been able to subtract like the wind since I was about eight years old. I still think it’s cool to “borrow” from the next column when I’m deducting a sum from my checking balance. Do I think it’s cool to watch a computer do that for me? See BOB LEVEY, page 61

ANSWERS TO CROSSWORD A D A M L I L A I D A H L N E B E A R A N T M D U B O R I I W A N L A J O H N A G A G B R I E E R R

C O U R S E

I O T N A O O V N E E X

S T T U E F K A N

O N O R

C E R E B E R R I S C H O H O R E N N G U E O D S N E T

A T I R H N T E C L I P O I S E G I A N I N T T A I A G L D Y O D I O N E D Y A O R S M E A M

M E A S T S E T O Y O U

S W E A R

T A A R O K

Arts & Style | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

PUZZLE PAGE RETIRE FROM WINTER Call 1-800-309-5805 for your FREE brochure!

D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

Crossword Puzzle Daily crosswords can be found on our website: www.TheBeaconNewspapers.com Click on Puzzles Plus Late December Back in ‘63 By Stephen Sherr 1

11089809

See our ad on page 24.

5 12

33 35

41 46

38 43

44 48

Scrabble answers on p. 59.

Across

Down

1. First answerer 5. Sports org. a with Swiss HQ 8. “The storing 20’s” device 11. The color purple-ish 13. Common feature of “thirty-one” and “XXXI” 15. She played Carla on Cheers 17. 24 Across’ state 18. Conflicted 19. “This is only a ___” 20. It was total the night of 12/30/63 23. Nephew of Caligula 24. Capital of 17 Across 25. Championship result on 12/29/63 31. Homophone for “aunt”, to some 32. Energetic start 33. Carried along 34. Center of “dumdums” 35. “Evil cannot ___ without good” (Thomas Aquinas) 38. “Yes, Captain” 39. Bullwinkle’s arch-enemy 42. Low-maintenance “Pet” 44. “Pressure just makes you ___ little more; I kind of like pressure” (Joe Namath) 45. With a helping Hand, it invaded the US on 12/26/63 49. Today show host, starting in 1994 50. His biggest hit was Runaround Sue 51. His portrait was approved for a coin, on 12/30/63 55. Slapped with ___ order 56. Chills and fever 57. Cardiologist’s concern 61. Cheese for crackers 62. Silently approves 63. Besmirch 64. Overthrow first base 65. Part of a badminton set 66. Out of control

1. Clay, hardened 2. Took action 3. One below Tenn. 4. His Symphony No. 3 was first performed in 1902 5. One greata than theta 6. Words before off or about 7. Brainy prefix 8. Craftsman 9. US office building with most square footage 10. “If you make a ___, clean it up” 12. Series of obstacles 14. Concealed (neato abbreviation) 16. Went to the continental breakfast 21. Those above the law 22. The XVIth prime number 23. It has no dyes, curlers, uncurlers, beads, or gels 25. Disney film released during WWII 26. Create a permanent fund 27. Confound 28. Indicted East German leader Honecker 29. Birthday greeting words 30. Use an unopened bible 36. Network of The L Word and The Big C 37. Spanish keyboard feature 40. Madly 41. Oreo insides (it may be doubled) 43. Apparel company with slogan Impossible is nothing” 46. Technical analyst, briefly 47. Its state quarter features Crater Lake 48. Cellist who keeps coming back 51. Quick karate move 52. Mythological man-eater 53. Just out of the shower 54. Oriole or raven’s home 58. Stage of sleep 59. Chinese principle 60. Indiana Jones’ quest

Answers on page 59.

Answer: What the seedy hotel gave him when he paid in dollars -- QUARTERS Jumbles: TRACT FLUKE LIQUOR SURELY

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5

Gloria Steinem

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Arts & Style

ONE BIG HAPPY By Rick Detorie

From page 58 self as Secretary of State.’’ Hopeful as she is, she warns it won’t easy: “The campaign is going to be hell.’’ Steinem, who’s been a writer all her life, said the process was still difficult. “If you’re a writer and you really care about writing, you put it off,’’ she said. “You wax the floor.’’ Once she’d written her draft, she handed it to “two friends with machetes’’ who cut at least a third. Still, every day she thinks of a story she should have included. “I could follow each copy to the bookstore with a pencil in my hand,’’ she jokes. There was, for example, the elderly Chinese man crossing the street who suddenly turned and asked what she thought of the late Margaret Thatcher. (Not much, she told him.) She was delighted by the exchange, which she sees as a reward of being open to new experiences — a way to be “on the road’’ without traveling. Or her recent experience in a taxi. She saw a billboard with an image of Dracula, and remarked that she “didn’t understand this bloodsucking thing.’’ And then the driver informed her that he was from Transylvania — and gave her an entire education in the origins of the Dracula tale. You see? This is why Gloria Steinem doesn’t drive. — AP

Bob Levey From page 59 Not at all. I want to be the master of my subtracting fate. A few phone calls revealed that I’m a financial management dinosaur. The American Bankers Association says that the number of checks written in the United States has declined precipitously in the last decade. The ABA doesn’t have exact figures, but a spokesman guesses the decline is in the 25 percent range. “Of course, the computer is the reason,” the spokesman said. Well, bully for the computer. For me, writing a check is like many other habits I refuse to break: Reading a newspaper — not a website. Driving a car that doesn’t beep at me when I back up. Making a cup of coffee in a real pot, not in one of those space-age machines that looks as if it could fly. You can call me cranky if you like. My

dinner companion certainly did. But when I checked my bank statement a couple of weeks later, and I discovered that he had cashed my check, I called him up. “Here’s a cranky expression you might want to memorize,” I told him. “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” He called me several names that don’t appear in any dictionary. As I pointed out to him, those words are still just as useful as any check. Bob Levey is a national award-winning columnist.

BEACON BITS

Dec. 19

MOBILE DEVICE BASICS Montgomery County Public Libraries presents a mobile device

basics class on Saturday, Dec. 19 from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Little Falls Library. Work one-on-one with a teen volunteer and learn how to download e-books and apps, send email and text, take photos and videos. Bring your charged device to the session. Register at the information desk. The library is located at 5501 Massachusetts Ave., Bethesda, Md. For more information, call (240) 773-9520.

WB 12/15

More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

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 page 63. 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 CHEVY CHASE HOME CARE – reliable certified caregivers at time of illness, infirmity, loneliness. Personal assistance, ALL AGES, 4- to 24-hour shifts, homes, hospitals, nursing homes. MD, DC, No. VA. Tel.: 202-374-1240. www.ChChHomecare.com. “A” HOME HEALTH CARE – Experienced nurses, CNA, GNA are available 24/7. Cooking, companionship, personal care, housekeeping, driving. Full/Part-time or live-in. Flat rate for live-in care. 15 years experience. 240-533-6599. HOME AIDE NEEDED PT – Near Silver Spring Metro (young woman with slight disability). Help with shopping, meals, housekeeping, outings, good pay, flexible hours. Single woman preferred. Call Dee at 301-328-0088. HYGIENE CARE, MEAL PREPARATION, Housekeeping, Errands, Appointments, Medication reminders, Companionship. I’m a loving, experienced, trusted caregiver available for FT/PT or Live-In care for a flat rate. Call 301-490-1146. WANT TO GO OUT TO DINNER or a movie? I will stay with your loved one. Not an agency. Retired R.N. Kay, 301-445-3778. ELDERLY CARE – FEMALE care provider, English speaking, with car. I cook, clean and take to all appointments. I’m experienced in caring for people with MS, Alzheimer’s and other health problems. Excellent references. 301-275-7283. I WILL CARE FOR YOUR LOVED ONES night/day. Own transportation. Good references. Lots of experience. 301-502-2258.

D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N

For Sale/Rent: Real Estate

Personal Services

Wanted

LEISURE WORLD® – $189,000. 2 BR 2FB “J” model with garage in “Fairways South.” Table space kitchen with pass through and separate dining room, enclosed balcony. 1317 sq ft. Stan Moffson, Weichert, Realtors. 301928-3463.

CHERYL’S ORGANIZING CONCEPTS LLC – Professional Organizing Services. Help with all aspects of home organizing. Experienced – References – Member NAPO. All work confidential. Licensed – Bonded. $25 discount on initial appointment. www.CherylsOrganizing.com. 301-916-9022.

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

LEISURE WORLD® – $269,000. 2 BR 2 FB “EE” model in Creekside. 1st floor unit with enclosed balcony, open kitchen, separate laundry room. 1433 sq ft. Stan Moffson, Weichert, Realtors, 301-928-3463. LEISURE WORLD® – $173,000. 2 BR 2 FB “F” with garage and separate Storage Room in the Greens. Fabulous view from enclosed balcony, separate dining room, table space kitchen. 1120 sq ft., Stan Moffson, Weichert Realtors, 301-928-3463. LEISURE WORLD® – $183,000. 2 BR 2FB “G” with garage in “Fairways. Updated kitchen, enclosed balcony. 1195 sq ft. Stan Moffson, Weichert Realtors, 301-928-3463. LOOKING TO TAKE THE LEAP? I’ll take you on a tour of the community, show you floor plans, discuss campus amenities, & offer how to best coordinate your move. I will preview units & contact you with a match. I also offer exceptional service selling your home. I’m a Seniors Specialist, Buyer Broker, Top 1% of Agents Nationwide, and a Leisure World resident! You can see my current listings on page 24. Contact me: 301-580-5556, SueHeyman@aol.com, www.SueHeyman.com, Weichert, Realtors.

For Sale DEEP BROWN MINK JACKET and hat for sale in good condition, $300. 301-754-1289. Please call in the evening. 2 SALVADOR DALI woodblock prints from Dante’s Divine Comedy. Signed and framed. Asking $900 for the pair. Can email pictures if desired. Call Steve, 410-913-1653.

Health PAID HEARING AID STUDY – Participants, ages 60-85, with hearing loss who haven’t worn hearing aids needed for study examining effects of hearing aid use on auditory processing at the University of Maryland, College Park. Testing takes 8 hours and is repeated six months later. You will be compensated for your time and will receive a comprehensive hearing test at no charge. Call 301-405-8362 or email hearingbrainlab@gmail.com. IRB#415685-2. PI: Dr. Samira Anderson, University of Maryland.

Miscellaneous THE GOLDEN NETWORK offers Jewish seniors and retirees a variety of engaging programs, including lectures, classes, one-on-one learning in person and by phone, concerts, singalongs and more! For more information and details about upcoming events, call 301-732-1773, email info@goldennetwork.org, or see goldennetwork.org.

Personal Services

PIANO LESSONS – INNOVATIVE, supportive teacher with 30 years experience teaching adults. Bachelors of Music, Boston University; Master’s Degree, University of Maryland. Enjoyment in playing the piano is one of the main goals! First two lessons free. Call 301-891-3535. WILL DO YARD WORK FOR SENIOR citizen or anyone in the Alexandria area. Clean up leaves, paint garden rails, prune plants, put in flower beds. Call Sherwood, 571-268-8584 or 703-683-9623. WILL TYPE YOUR MEMOIRS, manuscripts, etc. For info and rates, call 703-671-1854.

Wanted WANTED: OLDER VIOLINS, Guitars, Banjos, Mandolins, etc. Musician/collector will pay cash for older string instruments. Jack, 301279-2158. WE BUY JEWELRY, SILVER, GOLD, AND COSTUME. Coins, Paper Money Too. Watches, Clocks, Military Badges and Patches Old and New. Call Greg, 717-658-7954. OLD AND NEW, WE BUY STERLING SILVER FLATWARE, Tea Sets, Single Pieces of Silver, Large pieces of Silver Plate. Attic, Basement or Garage. Call Greg, 717-658-7954. You have something to SELL, we are looking to BUY. MILITARY ITEMS WANTED: Collector seeks to purchase military uniforms; flight jackets, patches, insignia, medals, etc. from the Civil War through Vietnam. Especially seeking U.S. Army Air Corps, USMC, Airborne, and German/Japanese/Italian items from WWII. ALSO BUYING old Boy Scout, Airline Items, Toys, Lighters. Call Dan, 202-841-3062. CASH FOR JEWELRY: Buying jewelry, diamonds, gold, platinum, silver, watches, coins, flatware, etc. We make house calls. Ask for Tom. Call anytime 301-654-8678 or 301-654-0838. STAMP COLLECTIONS, AUTOGRAPHS purchased/appraised – U.S., worldwide, covers, paper memorabilia. Stamps are my specialty – highest price paid! Appraisals. Phone Alex, 301309-3622. Stampex1@gmail.com. FINE ANTIQUES, PAINTINGS AND QUALITY VINTAGE FURNISHINGS wanted by a serious, capable buyer. I am very well educated [law degree], knowledgeable [over 40 years in the antique business] and have the finances and wherewithal to handle virtually any situation. If you have a special item, collection or important estate, I would like to hear from you. I pay great prices for great things in all categories from Oriental rugs to Tiffany objects, from rare clocks to firearms, from silver and gold to classic cars. If it is wonderful, I am interested. No phony promises or messy consignments. References gladly furnished. Please call Jake Lenihan, 301-2798834. Thank you.

Computer Services

READY TO DE-CLUTTER? Sort, donate, discard. Reasonable rates. Call Jan, 301-933-7570.

BEACON BITS

PROBLEM WITH YOUR PC/MAC OR NETWORK? Computer Systems Engineer will come to you with help. Call: David G at 301-642-4526.

HOUSE CLEANING SERVICE looking to clean your house. Good references and experience. Please call Vio, 301-706-6317.

Dec. 9+

For Sale/Rent: Real Estate 4-BEDROOM HOUSE TO SHARE with semiretired working professional. $595, utilities included. Also 1, 2, 4-bedroom apartment available for rent. References required. 301-233-4722. NORTH POT. VILLAGE – $289,900. Senior living at its best! Sunny, quiet/wooded corner 2BR 2FB apt. in secure elevator building with secure underground garage parking. Updated kit. Appliances, carpeting. Balcony, gas cooking, heat. Handicap accessible. Conveniently located across from Kentlands. 62 y.o.+ Michael Greenberg, Weichert, Realtors. 301-674-7928. FURNISHED APT. TO LEND – 12-13-15 to 01-03-16. $500 per week in advance. References required. Call Teresa, 301-448-1410. TwinThuysen@yahoo.com.

AFFORDABLE, PERSONALIZED CONCIERGE Services for seniors, working parents, or anyone needing assistance during life transitions. Flexible non-clinical support, including de-cluttering, estate inventories, doctor appointments, errands, friendly visits, patient advocacy, and more. Tournesol Services, LLC can help! Contact Isabelle at tournesolservices@gmail.com, call 301-785-7181, or visit www.tournesolservices.com. “De-stress your life: Turn to Tournesol.” Mention “Sunflower” for free 4th hour after first 3 service hours you purchase. PROTECT YOUR LOVED ONES and your wishes. Free cemetery pre-planning appointments. Call Akram at 703-663-0149. DECLUTTERING AND ORGANIZING. Holiday gift certificates available. Serving the DC Metro area since 1995. Very reasonable rates. Call Rose today at 703-569-3001.

LADY WHO LOVES DISHES and figurines wants to buy yours. Especially Royal Copenhagen, Deco Noritake, Limoges, Herend and English bone china. Do you have a collection of cup and saucers, dog and cat figurines, Royal Doulton ladies or salt and pepper shakers? Also mid-century Scandinavian ceramics and glass, Asian items, silver, paintings and costume jewelry. Anything else old and interesting, please call me. 301-785-1129. SELL YOUR GOLD AND SILVER JEWELRY and old coins. Licensed dealer in Silver Spring buys gold and silver. I will meet you at your home or bank, analyze your jewelry, or coins, and tell you how much I can pay if you should decide to sell. No fees or obligation. Call Bob, 240-938-9694. Gold 4 Good. 8431 Georgia Avenue, Silver Spring. License #2327. COLLECTOR BUYING MILITARY ITEMS: Helmets, weapons, rifles, shot guns, knives, swords, bayonets, web gear, uniforms, etc. from all wars and countries. Large quantities are okay. Will pay top prices for my personal collection. Discreet consultations. Call Fred, 301-9100783. VINYL RECORDS WANTED from 1950 through 1985. Jazz, Rock-n-Roll, Soul, Rhythm & Blues, Reggae and Disco. 33 1/3 LPs, 45s or 78s, Larger collections of at least 100 items wanted. Please call John, 301-596-6201. WE PAY CASH for antique furniture, quality used furniture, early American art, pottery, silver, glassware, paintings, etc. Single items to entire estates. Call Reggie or Phyllis at DC 202726-4427, MD 301-332-4697. BUYING MILITARY MEMORABILIA WW2, WW1, Civil War uniforms, weapons, photos and items associated with US, German, Japanese or items of other Military History. DAVE, 240-4640958. HIGHEST CASH PAID FOR ANTIQUES, JEWELRY, ESTATES. I have been advertising in the Beacon for 20 years. Montgomery County resident – will travel to D.C., MD, VA. Buying following items: Furniture, art, jewelry, gold, sterling silver, old coins, vintage pocket and wrist watches, old tools, books, camera, military items – guns, rifles, knives, pocket knives, swords etc. Also buying: old toys, dolls, trains, comic books, photographs, autographs, musical instruments, guitars, violins, etc. Also old sports memorabilia and equipment – baseball, golf, football, fishing etc. Please call Tom at 240-4763441.

Thanks for reading the Beacon!

STROKE SUPPORT GROUP Doctors Community Hospital offers a free stroke support group, which meets on Wednesday, Dec. 9 and Tuesday, Jan. 12 from 1 to

3 p.m. All are welcome, and light refreshments are served. The group meets in the first floor conference room in the professional office building of the hospital at 8116 Good Luck Rd., Lanham, Md. For more information, call (301) 324-4968.

Dec. 17

HOLIDAY CHORAL CONCERT The Smithsonian Encore Chorale, comprised of singers over 50, presents a free holiday choral concert on Thursday, Dec. 17 at

7:30 p.m. at the Church of the Epiphany, located at 1317 G St. NW, Washington, D.C. The program will feature holiday and seasonal pieces. For more information, visit http://encorecreativity.org, call (301) 261-5747, or email info@encorecreativity.org.

WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5

Say you saw it in the Beacon

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING RATES

BEACON BITS

Ongoin

DRIVERS NEEDED

The Senior Connection is looking for drivers to transport local seniors to medical and other appointments. Volunteer training and liability coverage are provided, and volunteers set their own schedule. For more information, contact volunteer@seniorconnectionmc.org, call (301) 9620820, or visit www.seniorconnectionmc.org.

Ongoing

FREE TECH TRAINING

Arlington County Public Libraries offers free one-on-one technology training in half-hour increments by appointment. Tech assistants can assist with basic computer tasks, using Microsoft office programs, troubleshooting issues, downloading e-book or audiobooks, creating email accounts and more. For more information or to schedule a session at an area branch, visit http://arlingtonva.libcal.com/booking/techhelp.

Ongoing

Deadlines and Payments: Ad text and payment is due by the 20th of each month. Note: Only ads received and prepaid by the deadline will be included in the next month’s issue. Please type or print your ad carefully. Include a number where you can be reached in the event of a question. Payment is due with ad. We do not accept ads by phone or fax, nor do we accept credit cards. Private Party Text Ads: For individuals seeking to buy or sell particular items, or place a personal ad. Each ad is $15 for 25 words, 25 cents for each additional word. Business Text Ads: For parties engaged in an ongoing business enterprise. Each ad is $35 for 25 words, 50 cents for each additional word. Note: Each real estate listing counts as one business text ad. Send your classified ad with check or money order, payable to the Beacon, to:

COMPUTER ASSISTANT NEEDED

The Little River Glen Senior Center in Fairfax needs a Computer Lab assistant. For this and other volunteer opportunities, call (703) 324-5406, TTY 711 or visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/olderadults and click on Volunteer Solutions.

The Beacon, D.C. Classified Dept. P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915-2227 For information about display advertising, or to request a media kit, call (301) 949-9766.

ADVERTISERS IN THIS ISSUE Clinical Research Studies

Montgomery County Information & Services/311 ......................56

Diabetes Clinical Studies . . . .25

Hearing Services

Computer Classes JCA SeniorTech ......................6-9

Dental Services Friedman, Stephen, DDS .........26 Oh, Judy DDS ..........................25

Employment/ Volunteers Career Gateway ........................50 Meals on Wheels........................4

Events Chabad .....................................15 GROWS ...................................16 Knee Osteoarthritis Seminar......5

Financial Services Children’s National Hospital....37 Jefferson Mortgage Group .......36 Mortgage Center of America .................................20 Widow Care .............................59

Funeral Services Fairfax Memorial Park .............27 Fram Monuments .....................38 Going Home Cremation...........56

Government Services DC Office on Aging ...........31-34 Montgomery County Aging and Disability Services ................19

Auditory Services, Inc .............21 Beltone Hearing Aid Centers ...17 Family Hearing Services ..........11 Sound Hearing Centers ............24

Home Health Care Best Senior Care ......................56 Elder Caring .............................26 Hallmark Home Care ...............19 Options for Senior America .....58 Virginian Home Health Services......................64

Housing Arbor Terrace of Herndon........16 Arden Courts............................26 Ashby Ponds/Erickson .......24, 60 Brooke Grove Retirement Village ...................................23 Chas. E. Smith Communities....................41-48 Chesterbrook Residences .........25 Churchill Senior Living ...........14 Culpepper Garden ....................50 Falcon’s Landing ......................13 Friendship Terrace....................22 Greenspring/Erickson ........24, 60 Homecrest House .....................16 Olney Assisted Living..............21 Park View .................................40 Pin Oak Village ........................22 Potomac Place ..........................30 Quantum Property Management.15

Residences at Thomas Circle ...12 Randolph Village......................22 Riderwood/Erickson...........24, 60 Rollingcrest Commons ............22 Solana of Olney, The................17 Springvale Terrace....................21 Tribute at Heritage Village.......27 Vinson Hall Retirement Community............................28 Virginian, The ..........................64 Waltonwood .............................28

Legal Services Eleff Law..................................37 Law Firm of Evan Farr.............38 Law Offices of Paul Riekhof ...39 Legal Counsel for the Elderly ..11

Medical/Health Cognitive Assessment ..............20 Horizon Vascular Specialists......4 Medical Eye Center..................29 Run With It Coach ...................17 Stem Cell Arts............................3

Real Estate Services Life in Order ............................37 Long & Foster/Eric Stewart .....29 Long & Foster/Inderjeet Jumani ...................................37 Weichert/Douglas Brasse .........53 Weichert/Sue Heyman..............24

Restaurants/ Food Service

Original Pancake House...........58 Wrap2Go..................................38

Retail/Pawn/Auction First Street ................................18 Five Colors Science & Tech. ....12 Four Sales LTD ........................39 Quinn’s Auction Galleries ........22

Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation Communicare Health ...............19 HealthSouth Rehab Hospital .................................20 Manor Care Health Services.................................14 Village at Rockville .................30

Subscriptions Beacon Subscription ................61 Washington Jewish Week.........58

Theatre/ Entertainment National Symphony Orchestra ...............................57 Signature Theatre .....................55 Toby’s Dinner Theatre ..............54 Washington Ballet ....................55

Tour & Travel Eyre Travel ...............................51 Tripper Bus ..............................53 US Navy Memorial ..................54 Vamoose...................................51

Utilities

DC Utility Bill Discounts ........36 Verizon DC Lifeline Program ..39

More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N