July 2018 | Fifty Plus Richmond by The Beacon Newspapers

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Would you want to know? ple only after their brains show extensive Would you want to know? There’s a debate afoot in the world of de- signs of the plaques and tangles that characterize the disease. mentia research. The question It is now believed that defecis, how do researchers detertive tau proteins and amyloid mine when a person has plaques start forming in the Alzheimer’s disease? brain decades before people And there’s a related quesshow any symptoms. This tion not necessarily being means that by the time we start asked: Do patients really want using the various drugs deto know? signed to postpone or halt the Only a post-mortem exam disease, it may be too late for can definitively identify them to work. Perhaps an earAlzheimer’s. In living persons, lier diagnosis would enable a diagnosis is generally made FROM THE them to be more successful. by ruling out other causes PUBLISHER This is the thinking behind (such as other types of demen- By Stuart P. Rosenthal recent research guidelines istia), and is based on a thorough medical exam and history, investigating sued by the National Institute on Aging and symptoms such as memory loss and neuro- the Alzheimer’s Association that recommend identifying prospects for clinical trials based logical damage. Brain scans and genetic tests can further not on current symptoms, but rather on early aid diagnosis in some cases, and as these biological markers that can be measured tests improve, momentum is building for using current technology, such as brain using these more broadly, in hopes of identi- scans and spinal taps. This new proposed “research framework” fying patients years before symptoms arise. is not being proposed for clinical use. In other Why would we want to do that? Since we don’t currently go looking for words, doctors won’t start ordering these signs of Alzheimer’s until serious symptoms tests to try to identify potential Alzheimer’s of dementia appear, we tend to diagnose peo- patients. For one thing, it hasn’t been vali-

dated as an accurate diagnostic tool. But even used solely in the context of research, this will vastly increase the number of people researchers consider to have Alzheimer’s, according to an interview published by the Associated Press. “The numbers will increase dramatically,” said Dr. Clifford R. Jack, Jr., a Mayo Clinic brain imaging specialist who led the panel of experts who drafted the new guidelines. “There are a lot more cognitively normal people who have the pathology in the brain who will now be counted as having Alzheimer’s disease.” Maybe that’s not a bad thing. If this enables people to enter a clinical trial possibly decades before any hint of a problem, it might lead to better treatments for them and those who come after them. But there’s one problem with this logic. Jack also noted that “about one-third of people over 70 who show no thinking problems actually have brain signs that suggest Alzheimer’s.” A similar statement appeared in our April edition in another AP article entitled “Why do some stay so sharp as they age?” Dr. Claudia Kawas of the University of California, Irvine, told a meeting of scientists that “About 40 percent of the oldest-old who showed no symptoms of dementia in life nonetheless have full-fledged signs of Alzheimer’s disease in their brains.” So, on the one hand, we don’t really know when the presence of tangles and tau in the brain will translate into the actual behavior of

dementia we are trying to treat. This is good news for many of us, as it suggests the physical changes that occur fairly commonly do not necessarily have to cause the symptoms we so fear. But at the same time, researchers are seeking to broaden the definition of who has Alzheimer’s to include those with the earliest biological signs associated with the disease. Do we really foresee medicating 30 to 40 percent of the older population who are cognitively normal but have evidence of pathology in their brains when they may never exhibit any behaviors associated with dementia? While we want to be able to find new and better treatments, we have to take into account the anxiety (and potentially many other problems) this new definition will cause for the people found to have these markers. Yes, it’s important for our researchers to keep striving for more information, and for older adults to participate in clinical trials that help identify new drugs. But at the same time, we need to think ahead about the impact these developments will have on real people and their families. I don’t have any answers today. Just questions. What do you think? I invite you to share your thoughts on this issue with us by sending a letter to the editor via mail, email or our website.

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Editorial Mission: Fifty Plus is dedicated to providing readers with accurate information, professional guidance, and useful resources. Our publication is intended to both reflect and enhance fifty-plus lifestyles, and to encourage reader dialogue and input. Fifty Plus is published monthly and distributed free of charge. The advertising deadline is the 20th of each month for the upcoming issue. The entire contents of Fifty Plus are ©2018, The Beacon Newspapers, Inc. No portion may be reproduced in whole or in part by any means without the express written consent of the publisher. The views and opinions expressed by writers and columnists do not necessarily represent those of Fifty Plus or its staff.

July

LIBRARY ART EXHIBITS

Richmond Public Library is showing three art exhibits, including “Recent Work,” modern impressionist paintings of landscapes and still lifes by Mike Haubenstock in the Gellman Room; 2017 Virginia Vistas Photo Contest winners from Scenic Virginia in the Dooley Foyer; “Chasing Light and Shadows,” recent oil paintings which vibrantly capture everyday moments and places with spontaneous color and brushwork by Richmond artist Kim Hall in Dooley Hall; and “Changing Faces,” mixed medium of charcoal and graphite pencils that creates HD hyperrealism pop out art by Richmond artist Jamarrow Edwards in the 2nd floor gallery. These exhibits are on display now through Tuesday, July 31. Richmond Public Library is located at 101 E. Franklin St. For more information, contact Lynn Vandenesse at (804) 646-7223.

Publisher/Editor: ........................Stuart Rosenthal Vice President, Operations: ..........Gordon Hasenei Vice President, Sales and Marketing: ..Alan Spiegel Managing Editor: ..........................Barbara Ruben Assistant Editor: ..........................Rebekah Alcalde Art Director: ....................................Kyle Gregor y Director of Operations: ........................Roger King Advertising Representative........Barbara Koscielski

July 27+

TOY SOLDIER SYMPOSIUM

Pamplin Historical Park and the National Museum of the Civil War Soldier are hosting the world’s oldest toy soldier company, W. Britain, from Friday, July 27 through Sunday, July 29 for its annual model figure symposium. Attendees will participate in workshops, including toy soldier painting and make their own diorama of a winter quarter’s encampment. There will also be a full day of military history-related seminars, a banquet, silent auction and more. The fullweekend cost is $99, with additional workshops ranging from $45 to $125. Saturday banquet-only admission is available for $66. Pre-registration and payment is required. The park is located at 6125 Boydton Plank Rd., Petersburg. For more information or to register, visit www.pamplinpark.org, call (419) 865-5077 or email erickaosen@wbritain.com.

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FIFTYPLUS — JULY 2018

Feature Story Entrepreneurs find niche at farmers markets

See FARMERS MARKET, page 12

✃

A woman examines jewelry at the Handmade by Linda booth at the South of the James farmers market. Artist Linda Williams has been selling her creations at farmers markets since 2004.

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Village Garden sells its produce at local farmers markets, including South of the James Market and Carytown Market. A large part of their business, however, comes from well-known chefs at local restaurants, including the Jefferson, Saison, Millie’s Diner and the Roosevelt, among others. “We are known for our unique selection,” Hunsaker said. “We bring chefs a mixed, 10pound flat with 25 to 35 types of slicer tomatoes.” He also welcomes many chefs to his farm, where he spends time showing them the many varieties of tomatoes, chilis and herbs he grows. “We grow about every herb you can think of,” said Hunsaker, “and we have an active herb and spice business with 45 different types of hot chilis.” They also grow produce for their own consumption, and barter herbs and other produce for beer at several of the local breweries. During the off-season, the Hunsakers take about six weeks to travel somewhere exotic. “We have been to about 60 different countries,” Hunsaker said, including Indonesia, Morocco, Sri Lanka, Zanzibar and Iceland. But even on vacation they are thinking about the farm. “If we can find some unusual vegetable, we ship it home and start it in the greenhouse,” Hunsaker said. When they travel, the Hunsakers avoid tourist destinations; instead, they try to experience the place as the locals do, staying in hostels and backpacking during the day. As food lovers, they also eat whatever the locals eat, no matter how unusual. “If it’s moving slowly, we eat it,” Hunsaker said. While Hunsaker enjoyed achieving success in the healthcare field, he appreciates that running Village Garden enables him to work at his own pace and do what he wants to do. At the same time, it challenges him and keeps him engaged. “I learn every day out here,” Hunsaker said. “It is always a process of adapting to situations.” His long days of farming also leave him more physically exhausted than he was in his former career. “I’m working harder than I have in my entire life,” said Hunsaker. “But it’s very rewarding — not just to make things grow, but to also work with many of the finest chefs in town.” Most importantly, Hunsaker is passionate about teaching people where their food comes from, the importance of preserving diversity in the food system, and the benefits of

PHOTO BY DAN CURRIER

By Catherine Brown Farmers markets benefit our communities on so many levels. They provide the opportunity to support local businesses, which keeps our money in our own communities. They enable us to cut down on the carbon footprint of our meals because the fruits and vegetables we buy do not travel as far to our tables. Farmers markets also strengthen our communities by offering the chance to socialize with neighbors. We are fortunate to have so many markets in the Richmond area, particularly the popular South of the James Farmers Market held on Saturdays in Forest Hill Park, and the newly expanded Carytown Market held on Sundays at the City Stadium. Those markets, however, would not exist if it weren’t for the hard-working farmers and vendors who work tirelessly to grow, produce and create products we all love. Fifty Plus interviewed three vendors who have taken on postretirement careers selling their products locally. David Hunsaker Village Garden RVA David Hunsaker, 63, grew up in mountainous Coeburn, Va., and was raised by a coalminer father and stay-at-home mother. Their family depended on their large garden for daily meals, so Hunsaker learned from an early age how to grow food. Of course, it took the young Hunsaker some time to learn the ropes. “I stepped on more plants than I saved for a while,” he said. As he got older, though, Hunsaker developed a green thumb. Fast forward a few decades. After a demanding career in the healthcare field — with stints as CEO — Hunsaker finally retired for good in 2010. A year later, he started Village Garden with then-fiancée (now wife) Barbara Hollingsworth. Both share a love for gardening, and are passionate about fresh seasonal produce. Located in Atlee, in the middle of Hanover County, Village Garden grows over 200 types of tomatoes, including heirloom and exotic tomatoes. They also feature unique varieties of chili peppers, with over 100 types, including seed stock they have accumulated during their travels to exotic lands. In addition to their tomatoes and chilis, Village Garden grows and sells herbs and spices that they develop into unique blends. Hunsaker adheres to organic and sustainable practices, using a geodesic, heated greenhouse and an unheated hoop house, as well as one of their 10 acres to grow the plants.

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JULY 2018 — FIFTYPLUS

Fitness &

Health

KEEP YOUR HEART HEALTHY Make sure to get enough exercise and sleep to reduce the risk of a heart attack LESS IS MORE A recent study has shown that some with breast cancer can skip chemo WEIGHTY MISTAKES To lose weight, do not: cut all carbs, skip weight training or skimp on sleep DESSERT IS JUST PEACHY Make a simple honey-glazed peach dessert while the fruit is in season

Is it safe to use your expired medicines? By Linda A. Johnson Just how firm are expiration dates on bottles of allergy or pain pills? Probably not as crucial as the “Best By” date on milk cartons. Medicines are expensive and, amid occasional shortages, some people are tempted to use expired pills. After all, a pill good till July 31 can’t be useless on Aug. 1. The expiration date, typically just one or two years after manufacture, simply shows how long the maker tested the drug’s stability by exposing it to extreme temperatures, humidity and light. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration advises against using expired drugs, warning they may not work as intended or may be harmful,

especially for people with serious ailments. Yet many people, including doctors, use medicines well after expiration. “I think everybody does,” said Dr. Jennifer Lowry, a toxicology expert at Children’s Mercy Hospital in Kansas City, Missouri.

Waste is costly Still, most expired medications get tossed. “We probably are throwing away $60 to $70 billion a year,” estimated Ajaz Hussain, president of the National Institute for Pharmaceutical Technology and Education. Hussain, a former FDA official, said he doesn’t hesitate to take expired pills. Multiple medical groups have urged the FDA

to lengthen expiration dates, but the federal agency said it’s not sure it has authority to do so. The FDA does provide recommendations for drugmakers to do that voluntarily, but the companies have little financial incentive to do so. During acute shortages of some medicines, the FDA lets drugmakers extend dates if they have data indicating they’re still good. That’s happened with this year’s shortage of saline solution for hospitals, as well as for a seizure drug last year and during a 2013 shortage of Tamiflu. Numerous studies on expired, properly stored drugs, mostly pills, have found them fully potent or close, some many years after the expiration date. In one case, unopened bottles of painkillers,

antihistamines and other drugs from the 1960s were still very potent when tested a halfcentury later. The FDA and Department of Defense jointly run a program that periodically tests batches of antibiotics and other drugs in the national stockpile for potential disease epidemics and chemical attacks. That’s repeatedly resulted in years-long extensions, saving billions of dollars.

General guidance on use Experts tell the Associated Press they know of no cases of patients harmed by taking expired medicines. The exceptions are aspirin See EXPIRED MEDS, page 5

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Supplement for pain may pose cancer risk By Robert H. Shmerling, M.D. Q: I was thinking about taking chondroitin for my arthritis pain. But I recently read it might cause melanoma. Should I avoid it? A: Chondroitin sulfate is among the most popular supplements in the world. It’s often taken in combination with glucosamine for joint disease. Some take it for prevention, others to treat pain. And yet, evidence that it actually works at all is limited at best. One review of the evidence suggested that of the few studies of chondroitin that were positive, nearly all were funded by makers of the supplement. Despite this, millions of people take it, many of my patients swear by it, and the lack of evidence doesn’t seem to be much of a concern to them. A frequent comment I hear is:

“Well, I’m not sure if it’s doing much, but it can’t hurt, right?” A new study suggests that maybe it can. Researchers publishing in the medical journal Molecular Cell are raising concerns that chondroitin sulfate may encourage the development or recurrence of melanoma, a potentially deadly form of skin cancer. Here’s what they found: • The growth of human melanoma cells with a particular mutation (called V600E) that had been grafted onto the skin of mice was promoted when the mice consumed chondroitin sulfate. About half of human melanomas contain this mutation. • Among mice fed chondroitin sulfate, these melanoma tumors were more resistant to an antitumor drug, vemurafenib, than those without the mutation.

Expired meds

tor at Boston’s Massachusetts General Hospital. But experts say don’t use expired liquid medicines, insulin and other injected drugs that must be refrigerated. They can break down faster than pills, especially if they aren’t kept cold. Ditto for drugs not properly stored. Medicines kept in areas with high humidity or fluc-

From page 4 and the antibiotic tetracycline, which can deteriorate soon after expiration dates. But it’s hard for consumers to know what’s safe and what’s risky. “A year out, I think you’re perfectly OK to use the medications,” said Dr. Ali Raja, an emergency medicine doc-

Although this research did not actually study human beings with melanoma, the study authors speculate that for people with precancerous skin growths containing the V600E mutation, taking chondroitin might be a bad idea because it could speed up tumor growth. And if a person had melanoma in the past, taking chondroitin might make recurrence more likely.

It’s important to point out that this is preliminary research. Although the tumor cells studied came from humans, a link between chondroitin sulfate use and melanoma in humans has not yet been established. It’s possible that these results aren’t relevant to actual people: For example, the doses or metabolism of chondroitin sulfate may be

so different in humans (vs. mice) that these results do not apply to humans. It is not rare that studies in animals do not translate directly to people. Here’s my take: This research is quite preliminary, and might turn out to have little relevance to human disease. But if chondroitin sulfate may promote melanoma growth — and it’s not clear that this supplement is particularly helpful anyway — I’d advise against its use, at least until we know more. Robert H. Shmerling, M.D., is associate professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School. For additional consumer health information, visit www.health.harvard.edu. © 2018 President and Fellows of Harvard College. All rights reserved. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

tuating temperatures — like a bathroom cabinet — or left in direct light degrade faster and can lose potency. Instead, keep them in a cool, dark place. Also, don’t put different pills in one bottle, as the chemicals could interact. And don’t use discolored, powdered or smelly pills, cloudy liquids or dried creams. What about EpiPens, the pricey emergency

injectors people with severe allergies carry as a precaution? Their shelf life is about a year and a half. But multiple studies have shown their potency declines slowly unless they’re exposed to heat or light. “We know expired EpiPens can work,” said Lowry. In a pinch, people should use them and then head to an emergency room, she said. — AP

More study needed

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JULY 2018 — FIFTYPLUS

Diet, exercise can keep your heart healthy Q: My family doctor told me that I was at an increased risk of having a heart attack because I have a family history of heart disease. What can I do to reduce my risk? A: There are many lifestyle changes that can be made to help reduce your risk of heart disease. Diet and exercise will be your mainstays. You want to include plenty of fruits and vegetables, grains, and the healthy fats called omega-3 in your diet. You can find omega-3 fats in wild salmon and herring, shellfish, walnuts, canola oil and flaxseed. Fish-oil supplements containing omega-3 are also available. It is best to avoid salts, most fats, sweets

and red meat. If you can’t avoid these foods, at least try to reduce your intake. The more variety in your diet, the better.

Get enough exercise and sleep Studies show that regular exercise for 30 to 60 minutes a day lowers blood sugar and blood pressure, boosts HDL (your good cholesterol), and can reduce blood clots, thus reducing heart disease. Walking is a great way to get exercise. Yoga and meditation can also help you relax and keep stress levels down. Being overweight can increase your risk for heart disease; these lifestyle changes can help you

M ARK YO UR CALE NDAR

July 31+

GRANDPARENT-CHILDREN CAMP Chesterfield Historical Society presents a grandparent and grandchildren summer camp to learn about 18th century life, including

archaeology, soldier life training, making clay bricks, completing chores from that period and more. Camp meets from Tuesday, July 31 through Thursday, Aug. 2 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Magnolia Grange Museum, 10020 Iron Bridge Rd., Chesterfield. Camp costs $100 per person, which includes lunch, snacks and drinks. Grandchildren should be age 6 to 12. For more information or to register, visit www.chesterfieldhistory.com or call (804) 751-4646.

Report any changes to your doctor. maintain a healthy weight. High cholesterol can clog your arteries Getting enough sleep, and good sleep hygiene, are components that are often neglected. and raise your risk of heart attack or stroke. Taking cholesterol-lowering A limited amount of sleep can medication, if prescribed, as raise your risk of high blood preswell as eating a more healthy sure, obesity and diabetes, thus diet and getting regular exerincreasing your risk of heart discise can help keep cholesterol ease. Most adults need seven to levels controlled. nine hours of sleep per night. There are some factors — Cigarette smoking can insuch as age, gender, race and crease your risk by raising your ethnicity, as well as family hisblood pressure. If you are an avid tory — that you cannot change, smoker, the first step is to start but these are good to be aware thinking about quitting. Your docof. The risk of heart disease intor can set you up with a support DR. RX creases with age. group or medication that can help By Tabitha Robinson Studies show that African you quit. Limiting alcohol also has benefits. Drink- Americans are more at risk than whites. East ing too much alcohol can raise your blood Asians have a lower risk, while South Asians pressure and adds extra calories, which may have a higher risk. Hispanics are among the cause weight gain. Both raise your risk of least likely to have heart disease. Family history plays a major role, espeheart disease. cially if you have a family member who had If you’ve been diagnosed heart disease at an early age. If you have already been diagnosed with Tabitha Robinson is a P4 Pharm.D. candihigh blood pressure, cholesterol and/or dia- date at the Virginia Commonwealth University betes, it is important that you monitor and School of Pharmacy. Robinson is from Charles keep these under control. Make sure to al- City, Va., and is a 2013 graduate of Virginia ways take your medications and check your Commonwealth University. She holds a B.S in blood pressure and/or blood sugar regularly. biology and a minor in chemistry.

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Latest news in breast cancer treatment By Marilynn Marchione Most women with the most common form of early-stage breast cancer can safely skip chemotherapy without hurting their chances of beating the disease, doctors are reporting from a landmark study that used genetic testing to gauge each patient’s risk. The study is the largest ever done of breast cancer treatment, and the results are expected to spare up to 70,000 patients a year in the United States, and many more elsewhere, the ordeal and expense of these drugs. “The impact is tremendous,” said the study leader, Dr. Joseph Sparano of Montefiore Medical Center in New York. Most women in this situation don’t need treatment beyond surgery and hormone therapy, he said. The study was funded by the National Cancer Institute, some foundations, and proceeds from the U.S. breast cancer postage stamp.

Who can avoid chemo? Cancer care has been evolving away from chemotherapy — older drugs with harsh side effects — in favor of gene-targeting therapies,

hormone blockers and immune system treatments. When chemo is used now, it’s sometimes for shorter periods or at lower doses than it once was. The breast cancer study focused on cases where chemo’s value increasingly is in doubt: women with early-stage disease that has not spread to lymph nodes, is hormone-positive (meaning its growth is fueled by estrogen or progesterone), and is not the type that the drug Herceptin targets. The usual treatment is surgery followed by years of a hormone-blocking drug. But many women also are urged to have chemo to help kill any stray cancer cells. Doctors know that most don’t need it, but evidence is thin on who can forgo it. The study gave 10,273 patients a test called Oncotype DX, which uses a biopsy sample to estimate the risk that a cancer will recur. It measures the activity of genes involved in cell growth and response to hormone therapy. About 17 percent of women had high-risk scores and were advised to have chemo. The 16 percent with low-risk scores now know

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they can skip chemo, based on earlier results from this study. The new results are on the 67 percent of women at intermediate risk. All had surgery and hormone therapy, and half also got chemo. After nine years, 94 percent of both groups were still alive, and about 84 percent were alive without signs of cancer, so adding chemo made no difference. Certain women 50 or younger did benefit from chemo. Slightly fewer cases of cancer spreading far beyond the breast occurred among some of them given chemo, depending on their risk scores on the gene test.

Who needs less Herceptin? A different study suggests that many women with a common and aggressive form of breast cancer that is treated with Herceptin (a drug designed to block the growth and spread of cancer cells) can get by with six months of that drug instead of the usual 12, greatly reducing the risk of heart damage Herceptin sometimes can cause. It’s good news, but it comes nearly two decades after the drug first went on the market, and many patients have suffered that side effect. The study was done in the United Kingdom and funded by UK government grants.

Results were released by the American Society of Clinical Oncology. Herceptin transformed care of the dreaded disease when it was approved in 1998 for women with advanced breast cancers whose growth is aided by a faulty HER2 gene, as 15 percent to 20 percent of cases are. It was later approved for treatment of those cancers in earlier stages, too, based on studies that had tested it in patients for 12 months. That guess, that the drug should be taken for a year, became the standard of care.

Shorter use appears sufficient But over time, the drug can hurt the heart’s ability to pump. That often eases if treatment is stopped, but the damage can be permanent and lead to heart failure. Some studies tested shorter use periods, but results conflicted. The new study is the largest so far, and involved more than 4,000 women with early-stage cancers who were given usual chemotherapy plus Herceptin for either six or 12 months. After four years, about 90 percent of both groups were alive without signs of the disease. Only 4 percent on the shorter treatment dropped out due to heart problems versus 8 See BREAST CANCER, page 8

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Common weight-loss mistakes to avoid By Mallory Creveling From juice cleanses to super-early workouts, some common â&#x20AC;&#x153;good for youâ&#x20AC;? fitness practices might actually be making it more difficult for you to get in shape. Here is a review of what not to do: Committing only to cardio. Despite what you may have heard, running or spinning shouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be your only workouts â&#x20AC;&#x201D; strength training is vital to fitness, too. After all, the more muscle you have, the more calories you burn at rest. Aim to lift weights at least twice a week. Try adding 30-second high-intensity intervals to the treadmill (or bike) by upping the incline, resistance or speed. Do more squats or lunges, too, or try using equipment such as resistance bands or battle ropes. Cutting calories. Eating fewer calories will initially help you slim down, but it probably wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t last. Consuming less while moving more, for example, forces the brain into star-

vation mode, which makes the body hold onto fat. Not all calories are alike, either: 100 calories of apple are not the same as 100 calories of chips. Processed carbs spike levels of insulin and signal fat cells to hoard calories. Then, your brain says you need more food. To slim down, focus on food quality instead. Specifically, aim for healthy fats, natural carbs and proteins. Waking up super-early to work out. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re also staying up late, you could actually be sabotaging your ability to get sculpted. Skimping on shut-eye leaves you hungrier the next day, and more likely to reach for sugary, starchy snacks. It can also destabilize hormones, upping your risk of diabetes and obesity. Make it a priority to get seven to nine hours of sleep each night. Cutting out all carbs and fat. An important PSA: Not all carbs are evil, and fatfree products often have more sugar or

additives than the regular versions. On the other hand, full-fat foods (like yogurt) typically leave you more satisfied, so you wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t crave another snack. And while saturated fat may harm your health, monounsaturated varieties (found in avocados and nuts) are better for you. As for carbs, theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re a crucial part of a healthy, get-slim diet â&#x20AC;&#x201D; the fiber fills you up faster and keeps you feeling full longer. Just choose 100 percent whole-grain crackers, pasta and bread, and eat more whole fruit and ancient grains such as quinoa. Only working out when you have a full hour. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t ditch exercise just because you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t carve out 60 minutes: try HIIT (highintensity interval training) instead. Doing 30 seconds of all-out effort (like sprints or jump squats) followed by 30 seconds of active rest (such as walking or biceps curls) and repeating this four to eight times melts fat faster than an hour of moving at a moderate pace.

Also keep in mind that a sweaty workout isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t the only way to get in shape. Classes like yoga and barre provide toning benefits â&#x20AC;&#x201D; and they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t leave you drenched. Using the gym as an excuse to overindulge. You canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t lose a significant amount of weight without paying attention to what you eat, said Lawrence Cheskin, M.D., founder of the Johns Hopkins Weight Management Center. While itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s OK to have dessert occasionally, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t eat a big portion and plan to work it off later. Aim for 400- to 500-calorie meals, and 100- to 150-calorie snacks, by filling your plate with fruits, veggies, fish and legumes â&#x20AC;&#x201D; and cutting back on empty calories. Family Circle offers candid advice and fresh ideas for everything, from what to make for dinner to what keeps parents up at night. Online at www.familycircle.com. ÂŠ 2018 Meredith Corporation. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Breast cancer

sity of Cambridge in England. Earl has consulted for Herceptinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s maker, Roche. The company had no role in the study. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no reason to not immediately change practice. The findings are persuasive,â&#x20AC;? said Dr. Richard Schilsky, chief medical

officer for the oncology society. Most of Herceptinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cancer-fighting benefit seems to come in the early months of use, he said. Others said that because so few women have died or relapsed after being treated with the drug, longer follow-up may be needed to

make sure the findings hold up before guidelines should be changed. Doctors also want to see results published, and to study them to see if certain groups of women need longer treatment. â&#x20AC;&#x201D;AP

From page 7 percent of those treated for a year. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s great newsâ&#x20AC;? for patients, said the study leader, Dr. Helena Earl of the Univer-

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FIFTYPLUS — JULY 2018

Flavorful, warm roasted peach dessert It might seem impossible to improve on a perfect peach, but we decided to try. We wanted a simple, warm dessert that amplified the peaches’ flavor. To achieve tender, flavorful peaches with a lightly sweet glaze, we began by tossing peeled and halved peaches with a little sugar, salt, and lemon juice to season the fruit and extract some juice. To help the peaches heat through and still hold their shape, and to prevent the sugar from burning, we broiled the halves cut side up in a skillet, adding water to the pan to prevent sticking. Once the peaches had begun to brown, we took them out and brushed them with a mixture of honey and butter, and then slid them back under the broiler to caramelize the glaze and produce beautifully browned peaches. Lastly, we reduced the juices that had accumulated in the skillet into a thick, intensely peachy syrup to drizzle over the warm peaches, and topped them with some toasted hazelnuts. Select peaches that yield slightly when pressed. You will need a 12-inch ovensafe skillet for this recipe. Use a serrated peeler to peel the peaches. These peaches are best served warm, and

with vanilla ice cream or plain Greek yogurt, if desired.

Honey-glazed roasted peaches Servings: 6 Start to finish: 40 minutes 2 tablespoons lemon juice 1 tablespoon sugar 1/4 teaspoon salt 6 firm, ripe peaches, peeled, halved, and pitted 1/3 cup water 1/4 cup honey 1 tablespoon unsalted butter 1/4 cup hazelnuts, toasted, skinned, and chopped coarse Adjust oven rack 6 inches from broiler element and heat the broiler. Combine lemon juice, sugar and salt in large bowl. Add peaches and toss to combine, making sure to coat all sides with sugar mixture. Transfer peaches, cut side up, to 12-inch oven-safe skillet. Pour any remaining sugar mixture into peach cavities. Pour water around peaches in skillet. Broil until peaches are just beginning to brown, 11 to 15 minutes. Combine honey and butter in bowl and microwave until melted, about 30 seconds, then stir to combine. Remove peaches from oven (skillet handle will be hot) and brush half of

honey mixture over peaches. Return peaches to oven and continue to broil until spotty brown, 5 to 7 minutes. Remove skillet from oven, brush peaches with remaining honey mixture, and transfer peaches to serving dish, leaving juices behind. Being careful of hot skillet handle, bring accumulated juices in skillet to simmer over medium heat and cook until syrupy, about 1 minute. Pour syrup over peaches. Sprinkle

with hazelnuts and serve. Nutrition information per serving: 154 calories; 47 calories from fat; 5 g. fat (1 g. saturated; 0 g. trans fats); 5 mg. cholesterol; 98 mg. sodium; 28 g. carbohydrate; 3 g. fiber; 25 g. sugar; 2 g. protein. For more recipes, cooking tips and ingredient and product reviews, visit www.americastestkitchen.com . — AP

M A R K YO U R CAL EN DA R

July 19+

FREE HEALTH SEMINARS Direct-to-consumer genetic testing can screen for cancer risk in the privacy of your home. Are the results useful for health decisions? Can

they provide reliable information about your risk for cancer and personalize prevention? Join Dr. John Quillin, a genetic counselor at VCU Massey Cancer Center, as he discusses the benefits and risks of this type of testing. This free seminar will be held from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, July 19 at the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden in the Kelly Education Center, 1800 Lakeside Ave., Henrico. On Tuesday, July 31, at the same time and place, join Dr. Shields Callahan, a VCU Health dermatologist and skin care surgeon, as she discusses steps you can take to protect yourself from skin cancer. For more information or to register for either event, go to vcuhealth.org/events or call (804) 628-0041. If you are unable to attend, you can watch the seminars live on the VCU Health Facebook page at www.facebook.com/vcuhealth/.

804-355-3013 1620 N. Hamilton Street Richmond, VA 23230

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JULY 2018 — FIFTYPLUS

Money

How to save money at the farmers market. See box on page 13.

Why to always use at least one credit card By Liz Weston Certified financial planner David Rae said he used to think that “anyone who could draw breath” could get an auto loan. Then one of his millionaire clients tried to buy a car — and failed. The 42-year-old client was turned down for a loan because he had no credit scores, said Rae, who is based in Los Angeles. Nineteen million American adults are “unscoreable,” lacking enough recent credit history to generate credit scores, according to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. They either have “thin” files, with too few accounts, or “stale” ones that haven’t been updated in a while.

Roughly 7 million of these people are what credit scoring company FICO calls “credit retired.” They no longer actively use credit, but their histories are free from charge offs, collections or other negative marks that might indicate that “their exit from the credit mainstream was involuntary,” said Ethan Dornhelm, FICO’s vice president for scores and predictive analytics.

Having no scores can cost you These consumers can face a host of potential problems, including: • People without scores could be shut out of credit they might want in the future, including rewards credit cards and low-cost loans. • Insurers typically use credit-based

scores to set premiums for auto and home insurance, so not having credit could cause those without scores to miss out on lower rates. • People with no credit scores may not qualify for the best cell phone plans, and may have to make bigger deposits to get utilities. The median age of these credit retirees is 71, Dornhelm said. They may have retired from work, paid off their homes, and feel no need to borrow money. But the credit retired also can include younger people, including those who live cash-only lifestyles.

die relatively quickly. While closed accounts in good standing typically remain on credit reports for 10 years, lenders often stop updating those accounts soon after they’re closed. Without updates, scores can’t be generated. The FICO scoring formula used in most lending decisions requires peoples’ credit reports to show at least one account that’s been updated within the previous six months. The rival VantageScore looks back somewhat further, 24 months, for updated accounts. VantageScore and FICO’s alternative formula, FICO Score XD, also generate scores for people based on their histories

Credit scores can die fast They may not realize that credit scores can

See CREDIT CARD, page 13

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FIFTYPLUS — JULY 2018

Name beneficiaries to limit cost to heirs An article appeared recently on the editorial page of the Wall Street Journal written by Warren Kozak, whose wife died earlier this year. Kozak indicated that his bankers had never recommended to him and his wife that they should name beneficiaries on their savings accounts. Kozak was under the false impression that the savings account in his wife’s name would automatically transfer to him. He had to hire an attorney, at the cost of $465 per hour, to name him as the executor of the estate in order to give him the power to transfer the accounts. The filing costs in New York City were $1,286, and the running attorney bill now stands at over $7,400, and is expected to increase. Kozak also indicated that his wife had never named a beneficiary for the retirement account held at her bank. As I have pointed out many times, in order to make sure that your IRAs and other retirement accounts are inherited by the individual(s) you select, ensure that you specify a named beneficiary for your retirement accounts, and that the names are retained by the financial institution that maintains your account.

fail to ensure that you name a beneficiary properly for each financial asset you own. For example, several years ago, I was named as the executor of my aunt’s estate. All of her assets were in the form of certificates of deposit held at various financial institutions. For most of her accounts, she had named beneficiaries for the CDs she owned. Unfortunately, unknown to me, she neglected to name specific beneficiaries for some of her CD accounts. She had a valid will in which she did name specific individuals who would inherit any assets in which there was no named beneficiary. The CDs she owned, in which she had not named a beneficiary, would be inherited by these individuals. However, in order for this to happen, I was forced to hire an attorney to file for probate. Accordingly, the estate had to pay several thousand dollars in attorney fees to file for probate. The probate process took several months before the assets associated with the CDs that did not have a named beneficiary could be transferred to the individuals named as beneficiaries in the will.

Name for each account

Plan to avoid probate

You need to name beneficiaries properly for all of your financial assets. As Kozak found out, it is very expensive and time consuming if you

Naturally, you would like your assets to be inherited by the individuals you select, and you want these assets to be transferred in a

timely manner without expensive attorney costs and filing costs. I suggest you make a list of all your assets, specify who you want to inherit each asset, and indicate what actions you have taken to ensure that these individuals will inherit that asset. Review this information with your attorney and/or financial planner. If you have postponed preparing or updating a will to reflect significant changes in your life, don’t procrastinate. Set up an appointment with your attorney to make sure your will is up-to-date regarding your wishes.

If you want to educate yourself regarding ways to avoid probate, I recommend the book, 8 Ways to Avoid Probate (www.nolo. com) by Mary Randolph. The author discusses the ways you can name beneficiaries for different asset classes such as stocks, bonds, retirement accounts and savings accounts so that you can avoid probate and its associated costs and delays. Elliot Raphaelson welcomes your questions and comments at raphelliot@gmail.com. © 2018 Elliot Raphaelson. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

M A R K YO U R CAL EN DA R

Ongoing

SENIORS HELPLINE

The Richmond Office on Aging and Persons with Disabilities offers a helpline designed to assist older adults and persons with disabilities in their quest for services within city departments, as well as outside agencies. For more information or to access the line, call (804) 646-1082.

Ongoing

MEN’S DAYTIME BASKETBALL

Chesterfield 50+ Active Lifestyles has men’s basketball during the day for weekly recreational play at Huguenot Road Baptist Church, 10525 W. Huguenot Rd. on Tuesdays, now through Aug. 28 (not held 7/10) from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Admission is free. For more information, contact Susan Miller at (804) 212-8815.

Law & Money | www.FiftyPlusRichmond.com

ket,” Gilbertson said. They also sell their jerky, as well as homeFrom page 3 made trail mix and other high-protein snacks, at many local festivals, including the Straw“eating local.” Lynda Gilbertson and Marcia Adkins berry Festival in Ashland and the Hanover Tomato Festival. Do the Jerk-ey, LLC Four years ago, they were Lynda Gilbertson, 56, and awarded the Virginia Finest Marcia Adkins, 59, both love designation, which recognizes Westerns. Watching all those top-quality Virginia specialty movie cowboys eat jerky made food and beverage products. them curious: does the disapBoth Gilbertson and Adkins pointing jerky you buy at the are retired, so making and grocery store taste like the jerky selling their jerky has prothe real cowboys ate? vided a fun, profitable post-reEleven years ago, they detirement endeavor. It is a cided to buy a dehydrator and time-consuming process given find out for themselves. They the 3,000 lbs. of meat they began experimenting with mak- Marcia Adkins process each year. The whole ing jerky on their own. Today, process from raw meat to they sell 1,400 lbs. of it a year. When making jerky, Gilbertson said they packaged jerky takes about a week. “Making jerky is sorta like watching paint use only the leanest cuts of meat and the dry,” said Gilbertson. “You do a lot, and then fewest preservatives possible. Their attention you wait.” to quality seems to have paid off. At first, Gilbertson and Adkins season the “Our homemade jerky tastes nothing like the store stuff,” Gilbertson said. “When our meat and let it sit overnight. They then slice friends and neighbors tried it, they loved it it and marinate in for a couple of days, which sometimes keeps them up until the wee and suggested we sell our own.” After hearing that many times, Gilbertson hours of the morning. After that, they put the and Adkins decided that they did indeed want meat in a dehydrator for about 24 hours. Gilbertson said Do the Jerk-ey has grown to sell their jerky. “We got in on the ground floor with the South of the James Market, and more than they ever imagined. “That’s where then we also started selling at Carytown Mar- the fun comes in,” she said. “You have the

Farmers market

JULY 2018 — FIFTYPLUS

Now, she not only sells at the market, she work of making the jerky, and the fun of interalso works for Grisevich as administrative asacting with people at the markets and fairs.” sistant and liaison with the Market’s vendors. Linda Williams Williams enjoys working Handmade by Linda with the South of the James Nearly 20 years ago, Linda Market, but making jewelry, Williams, 60, was paying for ornaments and suncatchers is something at Michael’s craft her passion. She takes pride in store when she saw beads by creating unique, beautiful and the register. well-constructed pieces. “I really like the way colors “Making jewelry keeps me come together,” she said, “so I sane and makes me happy,” started wondering what I could Williams said. “You have to do with [beads].” concentrate and really think After wandering the bead about what you’re doing.” aisle, she decided to start makWilliams, who also cares for ing Christmas ornaments, Linda Williams her mother full-time, finds inwhich she enjoyed doing. But when one of her friends asked why she spiration everywhere. She collects pictures and wasn’t making jewelry, she decided to give ideas, and sometimes she waits until the right stone comes along to execute the perfect idea. that a try. “One of my favorite necklaces was inspired Jewelry-making soon became a passion, and Williams “graduated from Michaels to by wild violets growing in the yard,” she said. Williams finds it fulfilling to create objects Bangles and Beads” — a Richmond store that carries one of the largest collections of beads that others want to buy. “One of my friends from England takes my suncatchers back and jewelry supplies in the United States. She started using nicer materials, includ- home to his friends and family whenever he ing beads, sterling silver and semi-precious visits,” Williams said. She thoroughly enjoys the opportunity to stones. And in 2004, she began selling her create jewelry for weddings, and she delights items at the 17th Street Market. Williams then connected with Karen Gri- in selling to her repeat customers at the market. “Because I work for myself,” Williams said, sevich, who started South of the James Market. During that market’s second season, “I enjoy being able to give a piece away if a child comes to the market and really admires it.” Williams began selling her jewelry there.

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FIFTYPLUS — JULY 2018

By Laura McMullen Here are some ways to get the most for your money when buying produce and other goods at farmers markets: 1. Get to know the vendors. Many vendors give deals to folks they know. To build that kind of relationship with a vendor, become a regular. Consistently buy from that seller and turn to her for bulk and special orders. In addition to scoring deals — and maybe even a friendship — becoming a regular gives you “an inside scoop on the variability of the season,” said Nina Gruber, outreach and development coordinator for Seattle Neighborhood Farmers Markets. For example, you may be among the first customers to know when farmers will start selling peaches, she said. You may also learn when peach prices are expected to change with supply and demand throughout the season. 2. Buy “ugly” produce. “Seconds” or “No. 2s” are fruits and vegetables that taste the same as other produce but look a little off — they may be misshapen or bumpy, for

example. Farmers typically sell them more cheaply than the perfect-looking produce. Even if you prefer eating or serving flawless produce, you can use seconds for cooking, baking and making jam. 3. Shop late. Vendors don’t want to be stuck with unsold inventory. In the final 30 minutes the market is open, you may be able to snag a bag of apples for half the price you would have paid first thing in the morning. The tradeoff is that there will be a smaller selection of products at the end of the day. 4. Get discounts on bulk purchases. Remember, vendors want to offload as much of their product as possible. So they’re incentivized to cut a deal if you’re interested in buying a lot of it. Ask vendors what prices they can offer for the quantity you want, such as a dozen cookies or two pounds of potatoes. They may throw in a few extra potatoes or charge you less for a batch of cookies than they would have for 12 individual treats. — NerdWallet via AP

From page 10 paying noncredit accounts, such as telecommunications and cable bills. But applicants typically can’t know in advance if a lender uses VantageScore or an alternative score, so they should assume it will be a traditional FICO score.

You just need one card The key to reviving traditional scores? Having and using a single credit card is enough, as long as the card issuer reports to all three credit bureaus (most do). Balances can and should be paid in full each month, since there’s no credit score advantage to carrying debt. Rae’s client was a renter whose only credit card was tied to his business. Business credit cards often don’t show up on individuals’ credit reports. Rental payments are included on some credit reports, but they’re not fac-

M A R K YO U R CAL EN DA R

July 14

50+ ARCHERY

Want to learn to shoot with a bow and arrow? Rockwood Nature Center offers an introduction to archery for those age 50+ on Saturday, July 14 from 10 a.m. to noon. USA Archery-certified instructors will teach the basics of the sport. The class costs $20. The center is located at 3401 Courthouse Rd., Chesterfield. For more information, contact Lisa Trapp at (804) 745-8360.

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tored into the most commonly used FICO credit scores. So Rae had his client apply for a secured credit card, which required a $500 deposit to get a $500 credit limit. After four months, the client applied for a regular credit card from his bank. His healthy account balances helped convince the bank he was a good bet, Rae said. Having lots of assets or making big down payments can help the credit retired get approved for many types of credit, noted Jeff Richardson, vice president of communications for VantageScore. Credit unions, which are member-owned, may also be willing to look beyond credit scores when making lending decisions, he added. Two months after being approved for the credit card, Rae’s client got a car loan. And a year after that, he got a mortgage to buy a multimillion-dollar home, Rae said. “It’s all good, but it was rough and a big hassle at the beginning,” Rae said.

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Ways to save at the farmers market

Credit card

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JULY 2018 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; FIFTYPLUS

FIFTYPLUS — JULY 2018

A special supplement to Fifty Plus

www.FiftyPlusRichmond.com

Transportation Assistance for older adults and those with disabilities Dear Fifty Plus Readers and Community Friends: For older adults and individuals with disabilities, transportation is often the foundation for them to effectively use other services in the community. We also know that caregivers need help getting their loved ones to medical appointments and treatments. This supplement to Fifty Plus provides valuable information about transportation resources, and we hope you will share it with family members and friends. While transportation remains a critical need, we are proud of the progress that has made during the past 45 years in the Richmond Metropolitan Region (Planning District 15). Planning District 15 includes the City of Richmond and the Counties of Charles City, Chesterfield, Goochland, Hanover, Henrico, New Kent, and Powhatan. Since 1973, when Senior Connections was first organized, we have been proud to join with many community partners to provide much needed transportation and mobility management services. Through these collaborations, more older adults, individuals with disabilities and caregivers have greater access to transportation services. For example, in 2011, Senior Connections started Ride Connection. Ride Connection has helped older adults, individuals with disabilities and caregivers improve use of available transportation services. Ride Connection and the Mobility Management Program is a centralized system for the Richmond Region that provides vital information about available transportation options to the public, particularly older adults, individuals with disabilities, caregivers and those with low and limited incomes. By serving as a transportation clearinghouse, Ride Connection facilitates the most cost-effective transportation service for riders throughout the Region. Additionally, Ride Connection helps program participants to become better informed riders, with improved health due to better access to services. Program participants also report that they find transportation options more affordable and they are better satisfied with transportation options in the Region. Thank you for reading and holding onto this Transportation Supplement. We are grateful to Fifty Plus for helping us increase awareness about transportation resources, as well as where to find help and how to use available services effectively. We have accomplished much in the area of transportation during the past 45 years, and there is still much work to be done. Thank you for joining us as we move forward in addressing transportation needs throughout the Richmond Metropolitan Region. Transportation, an essential service, continues to be a critical need. Sincerely,

Thelma Bland Watson

Ride Connection Eligibility for Transportation Assistance This program is a mobility management service to help community members in need. Ride Connections can provide two (2) round-trip rides per month to non-emergency medical appointments for persons who qualify and who live in the City of Richmond or the Counties of Charles City County, Chesterfield, Goochland, Hanover, Henrico, New Kent and Powhatan. We also provide travel trainSenior Connections’ Ride Connection Staff Members ing, and can refer you to other (left to right): Tony Williams, Mobility Manager; Margaret transportation providers (in- Robinson, Transportation Specialist; Patrick Hickey, No cluding GRTC’s Care Van) if we Wrong Door Services Manager. are not able to provide a ride for a client. To book a record or request tickets or Eligibility requirements: Client must other services: be Call our hotline at (804) 672-4495. It is • Individuals with Disabilities monitored throughout each business (age 18 or over) or day. • Older Adults (Age 60+) We require four (4) business days’ noSome clients are asked to pay for a portion of their ride, depending on where they tice to schedule rides, which are subject fall on the Virginia Poverty Sliding Scale. to availability.

Attention Readers: Senior Connections is considering publishing topical inserts like this in Fifty Plus on a periodic basis, starting this fall. At the same time, “Mature Life,” the quarterly newspaper of Senior Connections, may gradually transform into these periodic inserts. We will be providing you the same useful information and in collaboration with Fifty Plus. Let us know what you think about these plans. Call Hannah Robinson at (804) 343-3046 or send an email to hrobinson@youraaa.org

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Senior Connections Supplement - Pull Out & Save

JULY 2018 — FIFTYPLUS

Area Transportation Providers This list includes for profit and nonprofit agencies, professional services, private services and voluntary programs. These organizations provide transportation services to adults and their families. *Unless otherwise noted, the transportation providers serve all of the metropolitan Richmond area. Please contact Margaret Robinson at (804) 343-3000 for more information. LAST UPDATE: 06/26/18. Access Chesterfield (804) 279-8489 (registration) (804) 955-4172 (ride request) www.chesterfield.gov/ accesschesterfield Chesterfield County, with service to Richmond, Petersburg, Hopewell, Colonial Heights Mon.-Fri., 5:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m.; Saturdays 5:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Wheelchair accessible service

Brighter Solutions Medical Transport Kenneth Lewis (804) 651-8397 Ambulatory, wheelchair and Stretcher Transport

ActiKare In-Home Care (804) 264-2829 www.actikarerichmondva.com Chesterfield, Goochland, Hanover, Henrico, Richmond. Monday-Sunday, 6:00 a.m.-9:00 p.m. Ambulatory, wheelchair accessible. Medical & Nonmedical. $15-$16 per hour. Accepts Medicaid and other insurances. (Medicare does not pay for service)

Chariot Ride Senior Transportation Patricia Key (804) 937-4203 Booking@ChariotRide.net www.chariotride.net

Alliance Specialty Transport (804) 225-8599 alliancespecialtytransport.com/ index.html Chesterfield, Henrico, Richmond. (Goochland, Hanover & Powhatan service for an additional fee.) 24-hr. service. Medical and Nonmedical. Flat fee. Accepts Medicaid. Ambulatory and wheelchair accessible. Angels for Hire/Angelride (804) 338-6858, (855) 525-7433 angelride.net Western Richmond, Western Henrico, Northern Chesterfield. Wheelchair accessible service. Bay Transit Katherine Newman (877) 869-6046 baytransit.org knewman@bayaging.org Charles City, New Kent, Richmond, Williamburg. Limited service Monday, Wednesday, Friday. The pick-up location for riders going to Richmond or Williamsburg is the Food Lion in New Kent. Mon. to Fri. 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Medical and non-medical. Rates: $3 for trips to Richmond and Williamsburg; $2 for trips to Charles City and New Kent. Ambulatory and wheelchair accessible.

CAP-UP (Capital Area Partnership Uplifting People) Capup.org (804) 788-0050 1021 Oliver Hill Way, Richmond, VA 23219

Comfort Keepers (804) 750-1123 comfortkeepers.com/office-273/ richmond-virginia Richmond, Surrounding Counties and Petersburg. 24-Hr. Service. Medical and non-medical. $60 for up to 3 hours. Do not accept any insurance. Ambulatory and lightweight wheelchairs (Foldable) Dependacare Transportation (804) 745-1818 (office) (804) 477-9721 (cell) edgar@dependcareva.com dependacare.va.com Chesterfield, Goochland, Hanover, Henrico, Powhatan, City of Richmond. Monday to Saturday. 24-hr. service. Rates: Non-wheelchair within 20 miles - $60 round trip; Wheelchair within 20 miles - $85 round trip. Accepts Medicare Disabled American Veterans Volunteer Transportation Network Mary Johnson (804) 675-5313 Richmond, Ashland, Glen Allen, Chester, Chesterfield, Hopewell, Petersburg. Mon.-Fri. 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Medical Transportation. Must be ambulatory. Free for veterans. GoGoGrandparent gogograndparent.com (855) 464-6872: Select A Service #0 - To Speak with an Operator #1 - A Car to your Home #2 - A Car to Where We Last Dropped You Off #s 3, 4, or 5 - A Car to a Customer’s

Last Pick Up Location (GRTC) CARE (804) 782-2273 ridegrtc.com/services/ specialized-transportation/ Wheelchair accessible service Home Instead Senior Care (804) 527-1100 homeinstead.com Seven days a week Logisticare (Medicaid recipients) (866) 386-8331 www.logisticare.com Wheelchair accessible service Mechanicsville Churches Emergency Function Senior Rides Aimee West (804) 357-9360 4mcef.com Service provided in zipcodes 23111,23116& a portion of 23059 Napoleon Taxi (804) 354-8294 napoleontaxi.com Saleh Medical Transportation, Inc. Doug Meyers 334-9511 myerslightning@yahoo.com Chesterfield, Richmond, Henrico, Ashland. 6:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Medical and Non-medical. Charge by mileage. Private Pay. Ambulatory and wheelchair accessible. Seniors Helping Seniors (804) 921-4280 7400 Beaufont Springs Drive, Suite 300 seniorshelpingseniors.com Richmond and Eastern Henrico Office hours: 6:00 am to 8:00 pm. Medical and Non-medical; Only ambulatory. Private Pay: $22 per hour. Shepherd’s Center of Chesterfield (804) 706-6689 shepcenter.org; Chesterfield County Shepherd’s Center of Richmond (804) 355-7282; tscor.com Services provided in the following zipcodes: 23059, 23060, 23113, 23114, 23219, 23220, 23221, 23222 (Medical Only), 23224 (Medical Only), 23225, 23226, 23227, 23228, 23229, 23230, 23233, 23235, 23236, 23238, 23294 Superior Mobility LLC 819 Grove Rd., Suite A, Midlothian (804) 379-5370 superiormobility.com

Tendercare Transport of Virginia (804) 288-8763 tendercareofva.com Wheelchair accessible & stretcher service TNT Transportation Services, Inc. (804) 270-3258 tntvans.com Monday-Friday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wheelchair accessible service Total Praise Transport Donnell Fonville (804) 229-5353 totalpraisetransport.com totalpraisetransport@hotmail.com Chesterfield and Tri-Cities Mon.-Sat., 6:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Medical and non-medical. Rate: $1.10 per mile. Medicaid accepted. Ambulatory service only Van Go (804) 261-7388 vangorichmond.com Richmond and surrounding Counties. 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Private Pay. Rates: $80 Ambulatory; $90 Wheelchair. VIP & Associates (804) 421-2500 Mon.-Fri. 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Wheelchair accessible service Your Taxi (804) 447-1393 www.yourtaxirichmondva.com Serving all locations in Chesterfield County, Chester, Midlothian and Southern Richmond TERMS Paratransit is recognized in North America as special transportation services for people with disabilities, often provided as a supplement to fixedroute bus and rail systems by public transit agencies. Paratransit services may vary considerably on the degree of flexibility they provide their customers. Ambulatory – able to walk about unassisted or with a cane or walker. (Editor’s Note: While Senior Connections is providing this list of potential resources, we do not endorse any of these transportation providers over another.)

FIFTYPLUS — JULY 2018

Senior Connections Supplement - Pull Out & Save

GRTC Bus Tickets / CARE VAN Tickets Through the Ride Connection RIDE CONNECTION has a limited number of discounted bus tickets which we issue to new clients for the first two months they are registered with us. We can issue 6 tickets a month for the first two months. After two months, you will need to be registered with CARE VAN to get discounted rides. Please call our Transportation Line at (804) 6724495 to request tickets, and we will mail them to you. If you need someone to show you how to use the bus or the CARE VAN or you need assistance planning a trip, we can put you in contact with a travel trainer. Please leave a detailed message (include your name, phone number, address). We will return your call during our normal business hours 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. GRTC issues CARE VAN ID cards which can

be used to ride the GRTC city bus for free. To get free bus fare, show your CARE VAN card on any GRTC City bus. To apply for a CARE VAN ID card, please call the number applicable to your age: Persons 80+ please call (804) 358-3871 x434. Persons with disabilities under 80, please call 1(877) 232-7433. When you receive the application, immediately fill out your portion, have your doctor fill out the other portion, and send it to the specified address. It usually takes about a month to receive your CARE VAN ID card. To ride the CARE VAN you will need to buy CARE VAN tickets. Please call us at (804) 672-4495 if you have any questions or need help filling out the CARE VAN application.

GRTC Bus Travel Training GRTC’s Family of Travel Training Services provides customers, 15 years of age or older, the opportunity to learn skills that will enable them to follow a GRTC bus route. Travel training is a process of teaching individuals how to ride public transportation safely and independently. Travel Training Instructors create individualized travel plans that aim to meet the customer’s transit goals and show them how to use fixed route transportation in order to increase transit options. Travel training is free, except for the bus fare cost. As always, all CARE customers may ride local fixed route bus service for free.

Family of Travel Training Services

 Basic Bus Orientation

• Initial meeting with the Travel Trainer to discuss travel goals and complete one or two bus trips. • This meeting may be conducted one-on-one or for small groups.  Personal Mobility Device Familiarization • Exclusively for CARE customers. • CARE customers practice boarding and alighting from fixed-route buses at GRTC HQ.  One-on-One Training • Personal training for specific trip destinations. • Includes an initial meeting with the Travel Trainer to discuss specific travel goals. • Open to anyone! • Can be catered to new transit riders,

individuals with disabilities, minors aged 15 and older, and seniors.

Travel Training Instructor Kelsey Calder Office: (804) 474-9320 Kelsey.Calder@ridegrtc.com

About Kelsey: • Specializes in travel training for seniors and people with disabilities. Kelsey has worked with individuals with disabilities for more than a decade. • Has a Masters in Teaching from James Madison University (JMU) with a concentration in Special Education. • In her words: “I know the importance of being an active member in the community. Travel training will increase participants' independence and community access.” Who qualifies for Travel Training? • Anyone aged 15 and older. How much does the program cost? • This program is FREE. • Valid GRTC bus fare required. • Current CARE customers ride GRTC local fixed route for free. • Reduced fares are available for certain riders. Are CARE customers required to switch to riding fixed route? • No! CARE customers may continue to utilize CARE service, but can ride for FREE on any local fixed route bus by swiping their CARE cards.

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GRTC Care CARE offers curb-to-curb transportation for individuals with disabilities. GRTC Transit System’s CARE and CARE Plus services provide origin-to-destination service under the guidelines of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) for the citizens of the Richmond Region. CARE and CARE Plus provide public transportation access to individuals with disabilities who may not be reasonably able to use GRTC fixed route bus service. According to the ADA, "origin-to-destination" service means providing service from a passenger's origin to the passenger's destination. GRTC primarily provides curb-to-curb mode of service. However, GRTC also provides assistance to those passengers who need assistance beyond the curb in order to use the service unless such assistance would result in a fundamental alteration or direct threat. As of March 2018, there are 80 cutaway vans and 8 sedans in the fleet. GRTC contracts with First Transit, Inc. to operate paratransit services using GRTC vans (look for the silver van with a GRTC logo). Additionally, VanGo is a subcontractor of First Transit also providing paratransit services using VanGo vehicles (look for the white vehicle with a VanGo logo).

Eligibility The ADA requires an eligibility process for the ADA Paratransit service. To apply for eligibility, please see contact information for ADARide below: Website: www.adaride.com Phone: (877) 232-7433 | Phone TTY: (310) 410-0985 | Fax: (310) 410-0239 (Mon-Fri. 11:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. ET) Email: info@adaride.com Mail: ADARide, 19300 S. Hamilton Ave, Suite #120, Gardena, CA 90248 For assistance with eligibility at GRTC or ID cards, please contact GRTC's Eligibility Coordinator at: Phone: (804) 358-3871 ext. 434 Mail: Eligibility Coordinator, GRTC Transit System, 301 East Belt Boulevard, Richmond, VA 23224

Paratransit Riders 80 years old or older Riders 80 years old or older can apply for an ADA Paratransit photo ID card. To apply, please contact GRTC’s Eligibility Coordinator at (804) 358-3871 ext. 434 or download and complete the application form (PDF).

Service Areas & Operating Hours All CARE trips are identified as either CARE or CARE Plus service. CARE and CARE Plus services are available in the City of Richmond, Henrico County, and portions of Chesterfield County. See GRTC CARE, page 18

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Senior Connections Supplement - Pull Out & Save

GRTC Care

ing CARE customer. Anyone who does not present a ticket will not be transported.

From page 17

Local Route Bus Fares

Service Type Operating Hours (7 days a week) 5:00 am - 1:00 am* CARE: (City of Richmond residents) 6:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. (City of Richmond residents) if traveling in Henrico County 6:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m.* (Henrico County residents) *(Hours may vary depending on fixed route bus service at the desired time of travel. Additionally, one fixed route does operate until 4:00 am on weekdays.) CARE trips are required by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This service operates within GRTC’s fixed route coverage area and including 3/4 of a mile beyond GRTC’s fixed route bus lines. 6:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. (City of Richmond residents) 6:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m. (Henrico County residents) CARE Plus service is not required by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). A trip will be designated as a CARE Plus trip if the origin or destination location is more than 3/4 of a mile from GRTC’s fixed route bus line, or if travel is desired to a destination in Henrico County on a day or time when GRTC’s fixed route buses are not running in Henrico County.

The CARE ID card enables a passenger to ride most GRTC local routes for free. The rider must present a valid CARE ID card when boarding the bus. Free fare is not available on express routes or the 19 Pemberton. The entire fleet of GRTC vehicles is equipped with wheelchair lifts, and each operator is properly trained and prepared to provide immediate assistance to individuals with disabilities and seniors who require it. For more information about where or when to catch a bus, please call our GRTC Customer Service Center at (804) 358 -GRTC (4782). Learn how to ride GRTC fixed route for FREE through our Travel Training Program! Effective October 1, 2014: Acceptable Medicare Cards

Service Type Cost per one-way trip CARE: $3.00 (City of Richmond & Henrico County residents) CARE Plus: $6.00 (City of Richmond residents) $3.00 (Henrico County residents) Pre-purchased tickets are the only accepted form of payment on CARE vans. Tickets are sold in books of six (6) and ten (10). A ticket book of 6 costs $18.00. A ticket book of 10 costs $30.00. Tickets may be purchased from select GRTC ticket outlets or by mail. CARE ticket books cannot be purchased at GRTC Headquarters. Call (804) 358-GRTC for information about mail order and ticket outlet locations. Go Cards or cash cannot be accepted on CARE vans. Every CARE customer must present a ticket to ride the service. A ticket must be provided for each ride for each rider, including children. Only one child, under the age of 5 and the personal care assistant (PCA) may be permitted to ride for free, with a pay-

Please provide the following information when making a reservation: • First and last name • Date of travel • Pick-up address • Destination address • The time you wish to arrive at your destination or appointment time • Your desired return time and destination • If you will be traveling with a guest, Personal Care Assistant (PCA), or service animal

No-Show/Late Cancellation Policy Effective July 1, 2014: The revised No-Show / Late Cancellation Policy will go into effect for all CARE customers. Contact the CARE Customer Service Center at (804) 782-CARE (2273) to request a copy by mail.

Holiday Schedules

CARE Plus:

Paratransit Fare

JULY 2018 — FIFTYPLUS

Scheduling a Reservation There are many ways to schedule a reservation - by phone, voicemail, email, or fax: Phone: (804) 782-CARE (2273) Voicemail: Call (804) 782-CARE (2273) then, when prompted, press “3” to leave a voicemail. Be sure to provide the customer’s first & last name and a callback phone number along with the reservation request. A CARE representative will call back to confirm. Email: webcarecvan@ridegrtc.com A CARE representative will confirm via email once the reservation is processed. Fax: (804) 474-9993 A CARE representative will confirm via return fax or phone call once the reservation is processed. Please Note: When using the voicemail, email, or fax options, a CARE representative will confirm reservation requests on the same day if the reservation is for next day service. If the reservation is for 2 or more days in advance, confirmation will be sent within 24 hours.

Call Center Hours of Operation: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Monday – Friday 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM Saturday and Sunday.

On the following holidays, there is a service change. For the regular, fixed route GRTC service, GRTC will operate a holiday schedule and CARE will run a reduced schedule. For the CARE service this means ALL standing reservations are canceled, and customers will have to book their trips for that day. To book that trip you will need to call the reservation line at 804-782-2273 within seven (7) days prior to traveling, and follow the prompts. You can also fax or email your requests. There are seven (7) days that are considered holidays, for service, and they are: •New Year’s Day - (CARE Customer Service also CLOSED this holiday) • Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday (Monday) • Memorial Day (Monday) • 4th of July • Labor Day (Monday) • Thanksgiving (Thursday) • Christmas - (CARE Customer Service also CLOSED this holiday)

Contacting CARE CARE personnel are available to assist customers with providing information about the service and resolving problems. Questions, suggestions, and complaints should be registered by phone or in a letter to CARE. Phone inquiries can be made by calling (804) 782-CARE (2273). Letters may be sent to:

Specialized Transportation ATTN: Customer Service 301 East Belt Blvd. Richmond, Virginia 23224 CARE Advisory Committee (CAC) CAC provides a customer based communication link between GRTC and individuals with disabilities who use CARE, on matters related to CARE service.

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FIFTYPLUS — JULY 2018

Travel

Leisure &

Jousting knights are just one reason to take the grandchildren to Baltimore. See story on page 21 for more kid-friendly activities in Charm City.

Off the beaten path: our trip to Myanmar son that Myanmar (ME-un-mahr) is referred to as “The land of pagodas.” For non-Buddhists, an itinerary that includes a seemingly endless array of holy places may threaten to cause a bit of pagoda overload. Even so, sites like Bagan belong on any “must-see” list. Others have their own special appeals. According to legend, a stupa has stood for 2,600 years where the Shwedagon in Yangon does today. The existing building is believed to enshrine strands of Buddha’s hair, and is encrusted with more than 4,500 diamonds. The seated Buddha statue in the Mahamuni Pagoda in Mandalay is one of the most venerated in the country. So many worshippers have applied gold leaf to the image as a sign of their devotion that it’s shape has become somewhat distorted.

PHOTO BY ZZVET@DREAMSTIME.COM

By Victor Block I was 3,000 feet high, floating in a hot air balloon with 11 other passengers, including my wife Fyllis, and — thank goodness — a pilot. Since this was my first balloon flight, my attention during the ascent was focused on the gigantic orb overhead that was keeping us aloft, into which our aviator was directing occasional bursts of flame. Flame! Once I was convinced that we would stay afloat and not catch on fire, I was able to focus my attention on the reason why we had clambered into the airborne basket in the first place. We were gently passing over a vast plain that is home to a massive and magnificent collection of Buddhist pagodas, temples, monasteries and dome-shaped monuments called stupas (stoo-puhs). Our balloon ride sailed us over the ancient city of Bagan, which was the capital of a kingdom spanning the 9th to 13th centuries from which Burma later evolved. At one time, more than 10,000 Buddhist structures dotted the landscape there, and the remains of over 2,200 survive today. We spotted both crumbling red brick shrines and whitewashed, gilded edifices that have been spruced up and returned to their former glory. This assortment of centuriesold Buddhist monuments is part of the rea-

Breaking free of Britain If the pervasiveness of religion in everyday life leads to an assumption that Myanmar is only about Buddhist temples, think again. In fact, it’s a multi-racial country with interesting cities, intriguing villages, stunning nature, and attractions sure to excite and delight even the most intrepid traveler. Britain controlled Burma from 1824 until the country gained its independence in 1948. An oppressive military junta that took control in 1962 PHOTO BY VICTOR BLOCK

In the crowded city of Mandalay, Myanmar’s traditional marketplaces juxtapose with motor scooters, cell phones and other 21st century technology.

Balloons float over the ancient city of Bagan, which in the 9th to 13th centuries was the capital of a kingdom from which Burma, now called Myanmar, evolved. Buddhist pagodas and shrines are prevalent throughout the country.

left a lasting stain on the nation’s history. The generals suppressed dissent, were accused of serious civil rights abuses, and allowed the economy to stagnate, largely isolated from the rest of the world. In an effort to erase reminders of British domination, the name of the country was changed from Burma to Myanmar, although both are still used. Names of cities, rivers, mountains and other places also were altered to avoid memories of the colonial days. When free elections were permitted to take place in 2015, the political party of Aung San Suu Kyi won a resounding victory. She is an activist who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1991, but whose advocacy for democracy resulted in her being held under house arrest for 15 years until her release in 2010. Aung San now serves as the State Counselor, a position similar to prime minister, and she has managed to institute some new freedoms, economic reforms and other advancements. However, the constitution still gives the military a

strong voice in governing the country.

Myanmar’s major cities In recent years, tourism to Myanmar has slowly increased, and those who go there find variety enough to satisfy a myriad of interests. The major cities alone would make the trip worthwhile. Yangon, formerly known as Rangoon, is the biggest city and commercial center. It boasts the largest number of colonial-era buildings in southeast Asia, along with a proliferation of new shops and restaurants that have sprung up since the country reopened to the world. A good way to get a sense of the city is to board the Circular Train that transports workers, students and shoppers to their destinations. A ride costs only 30 cents, and while we didn’t stay on the run-down coach car for the entire three-hour round-trip, we observed a colSee MYANMAR, page 20

Leisure & Travel | www.FiftyPlusRichmond.com

JULY 2018 — FIFTYPLUS

New amplified phone lets you hear AND see the conversation.

o ct N t ra e n Fe Co No ly th

Breakthrough technology converts phone calls to captions.

The Hamilton® CapTel® Captioned Telephone converts phone conversations to easy-to-read captions for individuals with hearing loss. Do you get discouraged when you hear your telephone ring? Do you avoid using your phone because hearing difficulties make it hard to understand the person on the other end of the line? For many Americans the telephone conversation – once an important part of everyday life – has become a thing of the past. Because they can’t understand what is said to them on the phone, they’re often cut off from friends, family, doctors and caregivers. Now, thanks to innovative technology there is finally a better way. A simple idea… made possible with sophisticated technology. If you have trouble understanding a call, captioned telephone can change your life. During a phone call the words spoken to you appear on the phone’s screen – similar to closed captioning on TV. So when you make or receive a call, the words spoken to you are not only amplified by the phone, but scroll across the phone so you can listen while reading everything that’s said to you. Each call is routed through a call center, where computer technology – aided by a live representative – generates voice-to-text translations. The captioning is real-time, accurate and readable. Your conversation is private and the captioning service doesn’t cost you a penny. Internet Protocol Captioned Telephone Service (IP

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CTS) is regulated and funded by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and is designed exclusively for individuals with hearing loss. To learn more, visit www.fcc.gov. The Hamilton CapTel phone requires telephone service and high-speed Internet access. WiFi Capable. Callers do not need special equipment or a captioned telephone in order to speak with you.

But one place where life has changed little is Inle (In-lay) Lake, and a fascinating way of life it is. That large, shallow body of water is home to the Intha people, one of 135 nationalities — each with their distinctive dialects, clothing and traditions — that comprise Myanmar’s population. Small villages consist of rustic two-story houses elevated above the water by bamboo stilts. Here and there is a store, post office, barber shop and other establishment of similar construction. All transportation is by boat, primarily long, narrow teakwood dinghies propelled by whining outboard motors.

See for yourself with our exclusive home trial. Try a captioned telephone in your own home and if you are not completely amazed, simply return it within 60-days for a refund of the product purchase price. It even comes with a 5-year warranty.

Fishermen, however, move their motorless boats in a kind of over-water ballet, with a paddle held in one leg, leaving their hands free to cast a net. Farmers plant crops in floating gardens made of hyacinths, weeds and mud, bound together and anchored to the lake bottom by long bamboo poles. Not surprisingly, even in this dreamlike setting, pagodas dotted around the lake serve as reminders that you are, in fact, in Myanmar.

If you go Accommodations included in the Myths and Mountains itinerary range from five-star city hotels to more casual, very comfortable bungalow complexes. The Bagan Thiripyitsaya Sanctuary Resort originally was established as the government’s guesthouse for “elite visitors,” and is located within the archaeological zone. It sprawls over 24 acres of landscaped gardens, and many rooms are in separate cottages. Rates begin at $110 a night. For more information, visit www.thiripyitsaya-resort.com. Equally inviting is the Inle Princess Resort, perched at the edge of the lake. The architecture of the teak and bamboo huts echoes that of minority people who live in the area, and guests who stroll through the small village adjacent to the property get a good picture of rural life. Rates begin at $217. For more information, see www.inleprincess.com. For those considering a trip to Myanmar, the company Myths and Mountains operates tours and individual custom travel there and to a number of other destinations in Asia and Southeast Asia. One two-week trip next January called “Myanmar: Cruising the Chindwin River” starts at $5,960 per person, excluding airfare. The least expensive airfare from Byrd International Airport currently offered at that time is $1,351 on Korean Airlines. For more information, call (800) 670-6984 or see mythsandmountains.com.

Human rights issues in Myanmar

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From page 19 orful slice of local life. The tracks lead past upscale homes, ramshackle wooden huts and tent cities. Passengers see apartment buildings with porches festooned by a colorful array of drying laundry. Vendors walk the aisles, selling goods ranging from fresh fruit and cooked corn on the cob, to bottled water and astrology charts. Mandalay is the second-largest city in the country, and before the British colonization it was the last seat of Burma’s kings. In addition to the de rigueur religious relics, it is renowned as a center of arts and crafts, with different neighborhoods dedicated to various trades. The streets are clogged by motor scooters and trucks laden with unbelievably large loads, and pedestrians avoiding sidewalks that are badly in need of repair. More special to me than the cities were the villages scattered about the countryside, where in many ways people live much as their forebears did. Simple houses made of intertwined bamboo line narrow dusty lanes. Domesticated animals often wander along the streets.

Where time stands still

Finally… a phone you can use again. The Hamilton CapTel phone is also packed with features to help make phone calls easier. The keypad has large, easy to use buttons. You get adjustable volume amplification along with the ability to save captions for review later. It even has an answering machine that provides you with the captions of each message.

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Myanmar

The Captioning Telephone is intended for use by people with hearing loss. In purchasing a Captioning Telephone, you acknowledge that it will be used by someone who cannot hear well over a traditional phone. Hamilton is a registered trademark of Nedelco, Inc. d/b/a Hamilton Telecommunications. CapTel is a registered trademark of Ultratec, Inc.

Since August 2017, there have been continuous news reports about atrocities by Myanmar’s military forces against Rohingya Muslims who lived in Rakhine Province and have been attacked or chased across the border. The Rohingyas originally came from neighboring Bangladesh, and have been viewed by natives as interlopers since they arrived. Both the United Nations and the United States government have described the campaign against the Rohingyas as “ethnic cleansing.” Because the unrest is confined to a narrow strip of land along the border with Bangladesh, it’s safe for tourists to

travel throughout most of the country. However, some people believe that to travel to Myanmar at this time could be construed as supporting, or at least turning a blind eye to, the violence. Others conclude that tourism supports Burmese civilians because the money that visitors spend helps to provide a livelihood for people who work in that industry. According to Voices for Burma, a prodemocracy advocacy group, tourists assist by “bringing money to local communities and small businesses, and by raising awareness of the situation worldwide.” —Victor Block

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FIFTYPLUS — JULY 2018

A visit to Baltimore with grandchildren pleading by Mollie and her friend Ingrid persuaded us to reveal our destination. As we turned off the highway into the city, we wondered if our experiment of having an overnight getaway was doomed to failure. But it was too late to change plans, so with hope in our hearts we drove to the place where our first activity would begin.

PHOTO BY VICTOR BLOCK

By Victor Block “Can we ask someone for help?” Mollie inquired, her voice exhibiting the anguish we all felt. “Not yet,” I replied, trying to sound as confident as possible. “Let’s give it one more try.” It took less than five minutes for me to capitulate. “OK, let’s ask that family over there.” Approaching the group, I explained that we were participating in a Baltimore-area scavenger hunt, couldn’t decipher the next clue and needed help. The father, his wife and their two children broke into laughter. “We were just going to ask you for help,” the dad said. Thus began the intergenerational weekend trip that my wife Fyllis and I planned to celebrate our granddaughter Mollie’s teenage birthday. We had two goals: To give Mollie and a friend a special treat, and to test our theory that it’s not necessary to take off several days to combine a good time with a learning experience. Our research to seek a choice of activities turned up a surprisingly long list of inviting alternatives. We showed the options to Mollie without revealing our destination, despite her repeated entreaties. Then we compiled her selections into what we hoped would be a workable itinerary. As we drove toward Baltimore, no amount of

Scavenger hunt and jousting Ranked first on Mollie’s wish list was an urban scavenger hunt called Baltimore Quest. It combines an intellectual challenge with visits to some of the city’s major attractions. The first clue on our smartphone directed us to find a large ship’s anchor, which we soon discovered. A statue of William Donald Schaffer, a former mayor of Baltimore, also was easy to locate. But when we got to a clue that required solving a math problem and completing a crossword puzzle, we hit the aforementioned snag. Even that worked out, as we got to meet the other family on the same quest. The cost to join the Quest is $49 per team. For more information: www.urbanadventurequest.com/tours/things-to-do/baltimore/default.aspx, (805) 603-5620. After successfully completing the first activity,

The author’s grandchild, Mollie, tries her hand at glassblowing at McFadden Art Glass in Baltimore.

we headed for our next destination: the National Aquarium, overlooking Baltimore’s Inner Harbor. There we came face-to-face with sharks and razor-tooth piranha, spotted an emerald tree boa napping on a branch, and

understood why oversize tree frogs and turtles have Giant as part of their name. Touch pools became instant favorites of our See BALTIMORE, page 23

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JULY 2018 — FIFTYPLUS

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Baltimore From page 21 young companions, who delighted in making contact with horseshoe crabs, sting rays and other denizens of the seas. Mollie finally got up the nerve to feel the top of a jellyfish, and both girls ignored my I-thought-humorous query about what flavor the jelly was. Admission for adults is $39.95, ($34.95 if 65+), and children 3 to 11 $24.95. For more information: www.aqua.org, (410) 576-3800. By the time we had scavenged, communed with fish and eaten lunch, we were ready for an immersion in Medieval Times at Arundel Mills Mall in Hanover. That adventure takes place in what passes for an 11th-century European castle complete with armor, coats of arms and other ersatz artifacts. Let me say that this is the kind of attraction I love to hate. Let me add that I very much enjoyed it. Having already eaten, we arrived after the four course meal had been served, but in time for the pageantry, and it was abundant. A presentation of Middle Ages falconry was both entertaining and educational. A demonstration of dressage by magnificent horses was as graceful as a human ballet. Then came the highlight: A jousting tournament by knights, each of whom was loudly cheered on by supporters in the audience. The Black & White Knight was introduced as

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FIFTYPLUS — JULY 2018

“humble in prayer, loyal in service and in battle invincible.” The Red & Yellow Knight “fights like a lion uncaged.” Admission, including a meal (which you eat with your hands!), is $59.95 for adults and $36.95 for children 12 and under. For more information: visit www.medievaltimes.com/ plan-your-trip/baltimore-md or call 1-(866) 543-5278. The day ended with dinner and four sleepy but happy travelers turning in for what we agreed was a well-deserved rest.

Glass blowing and mini golf When the girls didn’t answer our morning knock on their hotel room door, our first reaction was one of panic. Then, using the logic that grandparents should possess, we headed for the swimming pool and — to our relief — found them cavorting in the water. After breakfast, we headed for an establishment that enveloped us in yet another world of wonder. We were surrounded by paperweights and pumpkins, fruits and flowers, and a seemingly endless variety of objects in a seemingly endless array of colors —all made of glass. McFadden Art Glass is a combination gallery and workshop, which offers classes for serious creators as well as drop-by opportunities for one-timers like us. After admiring the choice of objects on display, the girls selected the items they wished to make.

Prices for smaller objects are in the $20 to $65 range, and working with Sean — the very helpful, pleasant and, Mollie and Ingrid agreed, cute assistant — turned out to be a highlight of the weekend. With his guidance, our charges fashioned the items they had selected to take home as tangible tokens of the weekend. For more information: http://mcfaddenartglass.com, (410) 631-6039 Colors of a different kind greeted us at the Monster Mini Golf Course, which offers a unique twist on a popular pastime. The indoor 18-hole layout is bathed in black light, in which a multitude of monsters glow as they move, talk and entertain players with their antics, making who wins the game unimportant. $10.99 adults, $8.99 children. For more information: http://monsterminigolf.com/locations/towson, (410) 497-9704 The day, and weekend, were supposed to

end by playing paintball, but that was canceled because the girls weren’t wearing long pants to soften the splatter of dye-filled pellets. Fortunately, a nearby Go Kart track provided an exciting finale to the festivities. Any worries we still had about the success of a celebratory outing so nearby dissipated during the return drive, as the girls excitedly recounted the experience. Ingrid voiced pleasure that in addition to being fun, the scavenger hunt “taught us some history at the same time.” Mollie’s summary supported the theory that we had set out to prove. “I didn’t know there are so many interesting things to see and do so close to home.” She and Ingrid proved what Fyllis and I had set out to prove. Anyone anywhere can follow our game plan, and turn a short commute into a memorable family getaway. For information about visiting Baltimore, call (800) 343-3468 or see www.Baltimore.org.

M A R K YO U R CAL EN DA R

July 18+

INTRO TO TEXTING, SOCIAL MEDIA

There will be an introduction to texting and social media platforms like Snapchat and Twitter on Wednesdays, July 18 and 25 from 10 a.m. to noon at Huguenot Road Baptist Church, 10525 W. Huguenot Rd. Participants should know computer basics like how to turn on a computer and tablet, how to access WiFi, setting and applications. The class costs $26. For more information or to register, call (804) 748-1623.

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Style

Arts &

How to keep your flowers looking vibrant even during summer’s dog days. See story on page 28.

Exploring Napoleon’s power and splendor By Martha Steger A revolutionary republican who crowns himself Emperor of France — what kind of revolutionary is that? Whatever our opinions of Napoleon, we can no doubt agree he was an epic figure deserving epic treatment. The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts’ special exhibition, “Napoleon: Power and Splendor,” on view until Sept. 3, accomplishes a treatment befitting an emperor. Apart from crowning himself Emperor, Napoleon gets huge credit for centralizing the French government, reforming banking and education, supporting the arts and sciences, and streamlining the French legal system, which continues to form the foundation

of French civil law today. After visiting the exhibition that explores the role of the arts in legitimizing Napoleon’s reign, Ashland artist Dan Bartges said, “[It’s] always amazing to be reminded that, every so often, a single individual can become a significant influence on the whole world.”

The making of an emperor Quite an apparatus was necessary in the late 18th century to create a convincing image of the Frenchman who wanted to be accepted as a competent and confident leader, but also larger-than-life by French citizens. After all, the French had seen a great deal of killing in the wake of the 1789 French

Revolution and the Reign of Terror that followed (1793-1794), in which leaders of both the right and left were purged. Today, we think of branding as a necessary component of success, with one’s “brand” comprising one’s personal and public personas. Celebrities such as Beyonce, Oprah and Ralph Lauren are among those who have used social media, the Internet and traditional media to self-brand themselves and their products. Given the tumult that preceded him, Napoleon and his republican followers (i.e., anti-monarchists) believed they needed to do something similar. They feared a return to chaos if Napoleon were to become a dictator without a clear line of succession.

So more than two centuries ago, Napoleon Bonaparte set machinery in place to perfect his image, from a republican war hero to emperor. Creating an emperorship — Napoleon crowned himself Emperor of France on Sunday, Dec. 2, 1804, in an elaborate ceremony at Paris’s Notre Dame Cathedral — provided for continuation of stable power as he and supporters saw it (his infant son was King of Rome), but also satisfied France’s old-line conservative aristocracy (the Ancien Regime) by providing the trappings of monarchy. The Emperor became the glue cementing together two large segments of French society. See NAPOLEON, page 26

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From page 25 Exhibition curators have linked the significant public life of the self-titled emperor to his private world, a “state within a state,” according to Nathalie Bondil, director general and chief curator at the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts. That museum’s staff conceived, produced and circulated the exhibition, with the participation of the Musee National du Chateau de Fontainebleau and the support of Mobilier National de France. Works from the Louvre, the Chateau de Fontainebleau, the Musee de l’Armee in Paris and other world-class collections comprise the 200-plus artworks and decorative objects in the exhibition, recreating the sumptuous spaces inhabited by Napoleon and his family. Most of them have never been shown in the United States. In the Emperor’s private world, a cast of thousands in the Imperial Household worked to shape Napoleon’s brand. Members of the household weren’t chosen for the qualities of service they might provide, according to exhibition curator Dr. Sylvain Cordier, curator of early decorative arts at the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts. Rather, they were selected for what the emperor and his inner circle “knew of their aristocratic families and their past history.” Several, for example, had fought in the American Revolutionary War.

Imperial household members not only oversaw nearly every detail of Napoleon’s daily life, but also the organization of sacred and secular ceremonies. The exhibition’s eight sections examine the art of portraiture, the roles of the six Grand Offices of the Imperial Household, and how Napoleon lived during his final days in exile. Each gallery corresponds to the roles of the leading figures employed to attend to the needs of Napoleon and his family.

The Emperor’s image The exhibition opens with a series of portraits and historical scenes highlighting the ways in which various artists created portraits of Napoleon to correlate to particular notions of power. From the three-quarter life-size official portrait of Napoleon by Francois-PascalSimon Gerard to paintings by Antoine-Jean Gros and Andrea Appiani, depictions of the French Emperor represented various stages of his career. The other sections — the Grand Equerry and Grand Master of the Hunt, the Grand Chaplain, the Grand Marshall of the Palace, the Grand Master of Ceremonies, the Grand Chamberlain, and the Imperial Household in Exile — reinforce the Emperor’s image through displays such as weapons with imperial provenance that place Napoleon within a long lineage of French rulers.

Wow factors in every room

PHOTO BY MMFA, CHRISTINE GUEST

Napoleon

JULY 2018 — FIFTYPLUS

One of the wow factors in the exhibition is the display of six monumental silver-gilt candlesticks and a crucifix created for the spectacular wedding of Napoleon and Archduchess MarieLouise at the Tuileries Palace on April 2, 1810. Visitors need to imagine the 11-foot tall candles sitting upon the candlesticks, as neither VMFA nor other museum venues for the exhibition have ceilings sufficiently high to accommodate them. And “fake candles would just detract from the artistry of the craftsmanship,” Cordier said. The stunning show of porcelain throughout the exhibition — such as exquisite pieces made by the Sevres Imperial Manufactory as part of Napoleon’s chief dinner service — re- This portrait of Napoleon Bonaparte was mind visitors that the emperor influ- painted by Andrea Appiani in 1801, when the enced the return of luxury goods, leader was 32 years old. Three years later, he which had been in decline after the crowned himself Emperor of France. The painting is part of the Napoleon exhibition of Revolution. more than 200 artworks from the Louvre and Noteworthy in the exhibition’s final other French museums, on display at the Virsection, exploring Napoleon’s last ginia Museum of Fine Arts through Sept. 3. years in exile on the remote island of Saint Helena, are an intimate portrait of Napoleon’s nieces in exile in Brussels by British officer, who was part of the military Jacques-Louis David; a remarkable birdcage detail charged with guarding Napoleon in his that the emperor commissioned during his See NAPOLEON, page 29 exile; and a poignant death portrait by a

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Special events for the exhibit Image Makers: Masters of SelfBranding and Their Impact on Culture Friday, July 20, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., Leslie Cheek Theatre, $8 (VMFA members, $5) Terry Melville, founder of the Betty Creative Awards and former vice president/fashion director for Macy’s New York, and Freddie Leiba, creative director, fashion editor and stylist, explore the concept of selfbranding, and how famous personalities who have used it affect culture as Napoleon did during the early 19th century. Desiree (1954 movie) Sunday, August 12, 1:30 to 4 p.m., $8 (VMFA members $5) With richly designed sets and costumes, this highly speculative historical tableau posits that the rise and fall of Napoleon rested on his unrequited love for an alluring millinery clerk, Desiree Clary. The film stars Marlon Brando, Jean Simmons and Merle Oberon as Josephine. Discussion follows with Dr. Mitchell Merling, VMFA Paul Mellon curator and head of the European art department.

Six Degrees of Napoleon: The Power of Splendor Tuesday, August 7, 11 to 11:30 a.m. and Thursday, August 9, 6:30 to 7 p.m., free How do powerful individuals assert their power and prestige? Napoleon’s careful construction of his imperial image invites comparisons with the visual symbols and images used by other rulers in different times and places. Discover what happens when visual symbols clash with real-world events. With Twyla Kitts, VMFA teacher program coordinator. Napoleon’s Military & Political Rise to Power Friday, August 17, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., Leslie Cheek Theatre, $8 (VMFA members, $5) From obscure origins, Napoleon Bonaparte rose rapidly through the ranks of the army during the first years of the French Revolution, becoming a general by age 25. This talk, examines Napoleon’s early military career and challenges the myth that his dramatic rise epitomizes the revolutionary principle of “careers open to talent.”

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Mid-summer care of blooming ornamentals Let’s face it: July in metro Richmond is hot and humid. If you’re like me, you prefer the A/C to the sweltering heat. However, you can’t just let your garden go to seed — literally. There are a few tasks, um, “opportunities,” that take just a few minutes in the cooler hours of the morning or early evening to keep your containers and color flower beds healthy and beautiful. Deadhead flowers Remove spent blossoms on annual plants such as geraniums, zinnias and marigolds to encourage reblooming. Cutting flowers for floral arrangements also stimulates growth. Until mid-July, pinch out the flower buds of asters, mums, goldenrod, and other fall bloomers to keep plants bushy and prevent early flowering. Some perennials such as yarrow and salvia can be cut back now to encourage re-blooming later this summer. Keep in mind both sides of deadheading perennials such as coneflowers (Echinacea) and black-eyed Susans (Rudbeckia). While deadheading may keep seed from spreading where you don’t want it, keeping the seedheads of these plants will provide food for wildlife in the off-season. Water properly An inch of water per week is required for most flowering plants. Container plants may

need to be watered daily. Containers, especially those made of terra cotta or metal, dry out more quickly than plants in the ground. Water early in the morning to reduce evaporation. Avoid getting the leaves wet when watering to reduce the spread of fungal disease. A soaker hose may be helpful for inground plants. Reduce disease By late June, the warm, humid nights may have encouraged the growth of foliar fungal diseases in susceptible plants. Destroy and discard any annual plants that show evidence of disease on more than half of their leaves. You might notice a grayish powdery coating on the foliage of perennials such as roses, phlox and monarda. This is powdery mildew, a fungal disease that thrives in conditions of low rainfall and high humidity. Apply appropriate fungicides in the evening to prevent leaf burn. For more information about the treatment of powdery mildew, refer to Virginia Cooperative Extension Publication 450-603 at http://bit.ly/PowderyMildewVCE. Control weeds Remove young weeds before they go to seed. Mature weeds are also more difficult to control. Pull by hand if possible; it’s easier after a rain.

If you need to use herbicides to control weeds in color beds, spot spray, avoiding contact with desirable vegetation. For perennial weeds, systemic herbicides such as glyphosate (Roundup) are absorbed and move through the plant when weeds are actively growing. For small annual weeds, contact herbicides such as glufosinate (Finale) kill the portion of the plant that the herbicide touches. Remember that these herbicides have the potential to injure or kill any plant they contact. The following selective herbicides suppress only grasses growing in planting beds: fluazifop-P-butyl 0 (Ornamec), sethoxydim (Segment), and fenoxaprop (Acclaim Extra). Always read and follow herbicide label instructions completely. Remove insects A number of different pests feed on petals and leaves, including Japanese beetles and slugs. Add a dusty, scratchy barrier (sawdust, gravel or sand) around the perimeter of slug favorites such as hostas. Handpick slugs from plants in the evening and place them in soapy water. In the mornings, you can brush adult Japanese beetles from ornamental foliage into a bucket of soapy water. Systemic insecticides are usually not very effective against Japanese beetles if applied in July and August. Studies have determined that Japanese

beetle traps draw beetles to your yard; let your neighbors install them instead! Replenish mulch Heat and moisture cause organic mulches to break down; therefore, add enough mulch (shredded leaves, pine needles) to maintain a 3-inch layer around flowering plants, including those growing in containers. Some plants require more mulching than others. For example, it’s important to protect the roots of clematis under a layer of mulch. Keep mulch away from plant stems to minimize disease issues. Apply fertilizer In the middle of summer, your annuals and roses may need a fertilizer boost to keep performing. Add potassium to encourage blossom development. Liquid fertilizers are especially beneficial for dahlias, cannas, impatiens, salvia, sweet potato vine, petunias and herbs such as basil. With a little daily TLC, you can enjoy viewing your blooming ornamentals through the window of your air-conditioned home during the rest of the summer. Note that products are named for informational purposes only. No endorsement is implied, and no discrimination against other suitable products is intended. Lela Martin is a Master Gardener with the Chesterfield County office of the Virginia Cooperative Extension.

M A R K YO U R C ALE NDAR

July 20+

RAISE CANCER FUNDS Consider pairing with your grandkids this summer to support a wor-

thy cause. Sponsored by Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield, Anthem LemonAid is Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals’ signature summer event and has been helping kids with cancer since 2001 and is looking for participants will distribute cups of lemonade in exchange for donations. 100 percent of all funds raised will benefit the Hematology and Oncology Clinic at Children’s Hospital of Richmond. This fundraiser takes place from Friday, July 20 through Sunday, July 22. Participation is free, and every registered participant will receive lemonade mix, cups, a pitcher, a banner, stickers and sunglasses. Stands can be set up at one of the available retail sites or at a place of participants’ choosing, such as a local business, front yard, or neighborhood pool. For more information or to register, visit AnthemLemonAid.com or call (804) 228-5934.

Ongoing

CHORAL DIRECTOR SOUGHT The Richmond Men’s Chorus is looking for a new part-time director. Candidates should have a passion for musical excellence and have

7_18FP

experience directing and conducting an all-volunteer choir, and have an engaging leadership style with the vision to create innovative high quality performances. For more information, visit http://mcmrva.org/rmc-director-job-opening.

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FIFTYPLUS — JULY 2018

Napoleon From page 26 final years. The exhibition uses a form of technology called “digital mapping” to project images and special effects (leaves moving as in a breeze, for example) onto the rich green, red and blue backgrounds of four different scenes. The digital effect that lingers longest with visitors is the one at the end — a slow, relentless blue wave of water that lends the feeling of cold melancholy and sadness, apropos Napoleon’s exile on Saint Helena. The third movement of Beethoven’s piano sonata No.

31 in A-flat major (1821) plays somberly as visitors exit the wave and the exhibition. The VMFA is located at 200 N. Blvd., Richmond. Tickets to the exhibit are $16 for adults, $12 for those 65 and older, and $10 for youth ages 7-17 and college students with ID. Admission is free for VMFA members, children 6 and under, and active-duty military personnel and their immediate families. The museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with extended hours until 9 p.m. on Thursdays and Fridays. Visitors can reserve tickets online at www.vmfa.museum or by phone at (804) 3401405.

M ARK YO UR CALE NDAR

July 28

CHILDREN’S AUTHOR SIGNING William B. Hardison, Jr. will sign copies of his new release,

Dinosaurs in the Cornfield, on Saturday, July 28 from 2 to 5 p.m. at Barnes & Noble Short Pump, 11640 W. Broad St. The event is free and open to the public. Dinosaurs in the Cornfield is a collection of stories from the author’s boyhood summers spent on his grandfather’s Tennessee farm. It teaches important life lessons, while also encouraging the reader to reflect on the wisdom to be found in his or her own childhood experiences. For more information, email brandylanepr@gmail.com or call (804) 644-3090.

July

FATHER AND SON PAINTINGS Artists Jerome W. Jones, Jr. and his son Jeromyah Jones, will exhibit a series of their paintings, called “The Nature of Man,” at

Maymont’s Nature Center through Tuesday, July 31. Ten percent of proceeds from paintings and prints sold during “The Nature of Man” exhibition will be donated to Maymont’s Adopt an Animal program. The nature center is located at 2201 Shields Lake Dr. For more information on the artists, visit http://bit.ly/FatherSonPaintings.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

Aug. 18

FROM PAGE 30 ANSWERS TO CROSSWORD

BARN DANCE WITH CRYSTAL GAYLE Crystal Gayle will per-

form at the Old Dominion Barn Dance on Saturday Aug. 18 at the Beacon Theatre, 401 N Main St., Hopewell, Va. There will be two shows, one at 2

P A T H

p.m. (doors open at 1:15 p.m.), and another at 7:30 p.m. (doors opens at 6:45 p.m.). Tickets cost $40 to $55 in advance; $45 to $60 at the door. For more information, visit http:// olddominionbarndance.webs.com.

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CLASSIFIEDS FiftyPlus is now accepting classified ads in the following categories: Business & Employment Opportunities; Caregivers; Computer Services; Entertainment; Financial; For Sale; Health; Home/Handyman Services; Legal Services; Miscellaneous; Personals; Personal Services; Real Estate for Sale/Rent; TV/Cable; Vacation Opportunities; and Wanted. Ad text and prepayment due by 20th of preceding month. Private party ads are $10 for 25 words; 25 cents for each additional word. Business ads are $25 for 25 words; 50 cents for each additional word. Questions? Call (804) 673-5203. Send your ad text with check or money order, payable to The Beacon, to: FiftyPlus Classifieds; The Beacon, P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915-2227

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JULY 2018 — FIFTYPLUS

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Personals CUTE, ATTRACTIVE FEMALE, FIFTIES — Looking for single white male, fifties plus, attractive, robust, warm-hearted, romantic. Enjoy dates, companionship, devoted relationship. If interested, call 240-4184124, leave message. LOVELY WOMAN, 50s, SHAPELY LADY, young at heart, easygoing, seeking to meet and date a very attractive SWM, age 50s or 60s, a gentleman. Prefer brawny build, who is caring, sincere, courteous, compassionate, affectionate, stable, secure and lives a healthy, active lifestyle, non-smoker. Have fun dates, laughter, friendship, possibly more. 703-863-5564. Please leave a nice message with phone number for reply.

Personal Services HOUSE CLEANING — THE ABSOLUTE BEST, affordable. Hi! I’m Mary, and I offer excellent, friendly and affordable home cleaning services. I clean your home just the way you want. Free estimates. Please call me at 804-908-6399.

TV/Cable DIRECTV. CALL AND SWITCH NOW — Get NFL Sunday Ticket for FREE! Every Game. Every Sunday. CHOICE- All-Included Package. Over 185 Channels. $60/month (for 12 Months.) CALL 1- 888-572-4953. DISH NETWORK. 190+ CHANNELS. FREE Install. FREE Hopper HD-DVR. $49.99/month (24 months) Add High Speed Internet - $14.95 (where avail.) CALL Today & SAVE 25%! 1-844-560-5837. SPECTRUM TRIPLE PLAY! TV, Internet & Voice for $29.99 ea. 60 MB per second speed. No contract or commitment. More Channels. Faster Internet. Unlimited Voice. Call 1-888-366-7573.

Wanted 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.

Crossword Puzzle Sheepish Grins Sheepish Grins 1

By Stephen Sherr Stephen Sherr

29 33

42 45 49

22 25

34 40

Across 1. Walks through heavy snow 6. Salad bar bacon 10. Boston bartender 13. Jack, of electronic music 14. Run the ___ 15. Harvard or Yale 16. Internet provoker 17. Past its prime 18. Activated, as a cigarette 19. Where a lamb becomes a ewe 22. Write air, when you really meant heir 23. Amt. of salt in a batch of Toll House Cookies 24. Common conclusion to “homo sapiens” and “aliens” 25. Walk of Fame tile 28. Pac-12 school with highest enrollment 30. 8 1/2 x 11 paper tray 31. When sheep count sheep 37. Monopoly props. furthest from the corners 38. Got into position to take an entrance exam 39. Highest point Scrabble tile 40. Fully anesthetized 41. Why Mary looks so familiar 45. Pre-___ (undergrad. studies) 46. Welcome ___ 47. Sufficient, old-style 48. WNBA broadcaster 50. Maple syrup source 52. Make a selection 54. Lie down with sheepdogs, ___ 60. Outdoor rec. chain founded in Seattle 61. Like Halloween sound effects 62. Part of Amazon’s logo 63. Rock producer Brian 64. Hypnotist’s command 65. Unworldly 66. 2,000 pounds 67. Assembly-line pioneer 68. Disdainful look

Down 1. Off the beaten ___ 2. It may be in a tackle box 3. It may be all around a tackle box 4. Modern office drone 5. Class of renewable energy 6. Dog-washing basin 7. Mosque leaders 8. Dutch flower 9. “On second thought, let it stand” 10. Shiny satellite 11. Birdlike 12. Fairy tales 14. Fed. property overseer 20. Noah’s landing spot 21. Last choice for pasta (alphabetically) 25. Full of pep 26. Poi ingredient 27. Initial theory 29. Eve’s last named son 30. Scramble of LITE or TILE 32. Previously owned 33. Book before Nehemiah 34. ___ Honor (Thomas Clancy novel) 35. Currency of Portugal 36. Beef bourguignon, basically 42. List of sandwiches at Subway 43. Used-up beer cans 44. One honored annually on November 11 48. Everglades bird 49. ___ evil (first monkey’s limitation) 50. Grow, as a head bump 51. Publicized ones grievances 53. “The best laid ___ of mice and men...” 55. Cold cash, in Chile 56. Are You ___ to the Jive? (Cab Calloway classic) 57. Cleveland’s lake 58. Small bay 59. Decorative pitcher

Answers on page 29.

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FIFTYPLUS — JULY 2018

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