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VOL.28, NO.4
At Genesis, a new beginning
Forging connections The four-story building opened in November, with 27 apartments. They range from one to three bedrooms so they can accommodate single seniors as well as mothers with several children.
APRIL 2016
I N S I D E …
PHOTO BY BARBARA RUBEN
By Barbara Ruben A stroke left Ernie Osunkoya unable to work or climb the three flights of stairs in the house where he lived. And he couldn’t afford most of the accessible apartments he looked at. So Osunkoya was overjoyed when he learned about Genesis, a new apartment building on Georgia Avenue NW in Washington, with an elevator and subsidized rent. An unexpected bonus of his move last November: Surrogate grandchildren. Designed as an intergenerational community, most residents at Genesis fall into one of three categories: older adults, young mothers who have aged out of the foster care system, and the young children they are raising. Genesis is one of several communities across the country affiliated with Generations of Hope, a nonprofit that supports the creation of intergenerational housing projects. “The first time I saw this building, I was so happy. Everything was shipshape,” said Osunkoya, 69, who moved to the United States from his native Nigeria 20 years ago. “And then I got to know my neighbors. That was when I understood the name Generations of Hope. Where I was living before, it was, ‘you keep your family there, and I’ll keep my single self here.’ “When I moved in here, honestly, the experience of interacting with young women who have young children has lifted my spirit up.” He especially enjoys reading books to preschoolers in Genesis’s ground floor library. For Osunkoya, the murals in Genesis’s lobby say it all. The vibrant paintings depict actual residents: a giggling toddler squirms in the lap of an older adult, a mother gazes lovingly at her child. Osunkoya is shown in silhouette, cane in hand, with trademark baseball cap on his head.
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L E I S U R E & T R AV E L
Ernie Osunkoya treasures the opportunity to read books to young children like Nijae Duffy, 3, at the recently opened Northwest Washington intergenerational community called Genesis. The apartment complex, which includes a number of spaces for residents to mingle, is designed for single older adults and young mothers who had been in the foster care system and their children.
Mi Casa, a Washington-based affordable housing developer, partnered with Generations of Hope and several D.C. government agencies, including the D.C. Child and Family Services Agency and the D.C. Office on Aging, to build Genesis from the ground up. “We found incredibly appealing the goals of building community capacity, and building a community of interconnected generations,” said Elin Zurbrigg, Mi Casa’s deputy director. Genesis uses “what they call ‘intentional neighboring’ as a support system, rather than relying so much on external services, as in some housing development projects.” Initially conceived as a traditional affordable apartment community, Mi Casa
quickly changed design plans when it learned about the Generations of Hope project. While the building was already designed to be accessible for various abilities, one-bedroom units accommodating single seniors were added. The original building design also had little community space outside of the laundry room. Genesis’s revised blueprint incorporated gathering areas for residents to get to know each other and interact. In addition to the library of donated books for all ages, there is a computer center, conference/multi-purpose room, community kitchen, patio and garden area. Each floor has a small niche with a comSee GENESIS, page 18
Cruise news: bigger ships and submarine trips; plus, Nova Scotia’s mélange of cultures, and the best value countries and cities in Europe page 37 TECHNOLOGY k Fashion goes high-tech
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FITNESS & HEALTH 11 k Full-fat foods that are good for you SPOTLIGHT ON AGING k Newsletter for D.C. seniors
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LAW & MONEY 29 k Negotiate at the grocery store ARTS & STYLE kActor Sam Waterston
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A P R I L 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N
Political musings I regularly get asked by readers and — which defended the “checks and balfriends, “Who’s the Beacon going to endorse ances” so central to our Constitution — in the election?” Actually, we that helped me best underdon’t issue endorsements. And, stand why America has alas long-time readers know, I ways had a system of governseldom even talk directly about ment that seems to resist politics in my column. change and quick, effective But I’ve been thinking a lot action. The reason? It was delately about what makes this signed that way, on purpose! year’s election different, and I Yes, the “problem” that so want to share some of my many decry — the source of musings with you. our government’s “dysfuncFirst, I think it’s relevant to tion” in many people’s eyes — say that I learned some of the FROM THE is the Constitution itself. Each most pertinent things I know PUBLISHER of our three branches of govBy Stuart P. Rosenthal about our country’s governernment is selected differentment and our political system ly, has a different mission from in a college public policy course. the others, and is designed to want to resist That’s where I first read The Federalist the prerogatives of the other branches. Papers — not really a book, but a compilaWhy would our founders choose such a tion of 85 “anonymous” newspaper columns counterintuitive way to run a country? Didpublished in 1787 and 1788 to generate sup- n’t they know we’d have important deciport for the U.S. Constitution, which was sions to make, that time is often of the then being heavily debated. essence, and that such a system would imThe actual authors of the essays were pede rapid progress? Alexander Hamilton (recently of BroadThey knew all this, and more: They way fame, posthumously), James Madison knew that it’s human nature to want to exand John Jay, some of our country’s most ercise power over others. And that a simple significant historical figures. democracy that put all power in the people It was James Madison’s “Federalist #51” as a whole, without dividing that power into
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The Beacon is a monthly newspaper dedicated to inform, serve, and entertain the citizens of the Greater Washington DC area, and is privately owned. Other editions serve Greater Baltimore, Howard County, Md. and Greater Palm Springs, Calif. Readership exceeds 400,000. Subscriptions are available via first-class mail ($36) or third-class mail ($12), prepaid with order. D.C. and Maryland residents: add 6 percent for sales tax. Send subscription order to the office listed below. Publication of advertising contained herein does not necessarily constitute endorsement. Signed columns represent the opinions of the writers, and not necessarily the opinion of the publisher. • Publisher/Editor ....................Stuart P. Rosenthal • Associate Publisher ..............Judith K. Rosenthal • Vice President of Operations ....Gordon Hasenei • Director of Sales ................................Alan Spiegel • Managing Editor............................Barbara Ruben • Art Director ........................................Kyle Gregory • Assistant Operations Manager ..........Roger King • Advertising Representatives ........Doug Hallock, ......................Dan Kelly, Rena Pensky, M.K. Phillips • Editorial Assistant ........................Rebekah Sewell
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competing branches, would have the tendency to ignore minority rights and interests, and had the potential to concentrate power in the hands of a demagogue. Therefore, one of the chief goals of our Constitution, as described in “Federalist #51,” is that: “Ambition must be made to counteract ambition.” Our Constitution takes for granted that a government made up of free human beings will behave as free people behave if left to their own devices. Without a regimented, rule-bound system of checks and balances, a democracy has a tendency — as we have seen repeatedly reenacted throughout the world over the last century — to end up, as UN Ambassador Jeane Kirkpatrick famously said, “One man, one vote, one time.” The alternative to a democracy that has a tendency to elect a totalitarian leader (who promptly puts an end to democracy) is a government that may frequently be gridlocked. It can frustrate voters on both sides of the aisle, but it’s an essential element of a lasting democracy. A government run by those who can snap their fingers and change a policy, who can propose a solution and institute it immediately without accounting for other points of view, is one that can, and will, ride roughshod over the rights of its own citizens. We are a country of the people, by the people and for the people: “the people” as a whole; “the people” understood to consist of numerous factions with different interests and views.
Each of us wants to be the person whose views will prevail. We each think our decision would be the best one, the right one, the sensible one. But my decision would not be your decision. Frequently, the best decision is reached when all views are taken into account, and given a chance to mingle and stew, before a course of action is taken. Some may take umbrage that I attribute ambition for power to all human beings, and I would agree that not everyone is so. But I do think it’s fair to say that every politician is ambitious (even if many are ambitious for their agenda rather than for personal gain). In fact, ambition is a prerequisite for politicians — especially for those seeking national office. Who would go through the effort and expense required to get elected in this country without a driving, burning desire to exercise the power of the office? Yes, let’s assume to exercise it for the public good, but exercise it nonetheless! I am not pointing fingers at any particular politician or candidate. My words apply equally to former President George W. Bush, President Obama, and current candidates Donald Trump, Hillary Clinton and Roque “Rocky” De La Fuente. (Rocky who? Mr. De La Fuente is a Democratic candidate for president.) I wish more Americans today understood the reasons for our divided government, appreciated its value in preserving both their See FROM THE PUBLISHER, page 49
Letters to the editor Readers are encouraged to share their opinion on any matter addressed in the Beacon as well as on political and social issues of the day. Mail your Letter to the Editor to The Beacon, P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915, or e-mail to barbara@thebeaconnewspapers.com. Please include your name, address and telephone number for verification. Dear Editor: My wife brought home the February issue of the Beacon, and I read it with enjoyment. My own wanderings have recently steered me, without realizing it, into not regularly watching for and reading the Beacon. This will be rectified. You are running an operation that is superb, focused, intelligent, and provides a broad range of accurate information. Stuart Rosenthal’s February editorial “Out of Pocket, Part II” was simply superb. He took a very complex and confusing subject area and, with only a few hundred well chosen words, explained, analyzed, and clarified the importance of drug costs and availability in the United States. I come from a many-sided career background, part of it in the U.S. government. It seems to me that the American public is being hornswoggled and taken advantage of in the availability of drugs and their costs. I fully appreciate the cost for developing safe and useful medications for the American public; these expenses have to be borne by the user community. But, as in the
recent past, the attempt to raise the price of a drug by 7500 percent is unacceptable. I will return to being a faithful reader; and look forward to more edifying and enlightening comments by Stuart Rosenthal. Dr. Louis P. Solomon Bethesda, Md. Dear Editor: I don’t recall your paper having had any news about how retired seniors’ D.C. taxes are increasing because the $3,000 pension exclusion, beginning with the 2015 tax year and going forward, has been repealed. [This affects D.C. residents 62 and older with military, D.C. or federal retirement pensions.] At the 6 percent marginal rate, this tax increase amounts to $180, which for some families, living on a fixed pension, is quite an increase. Also, the $500 exclusion for long-term care insurance premiums is no longer a direct subtraction from gross income, but can only be included as a medical deduction if one itemizes. E. J. Mattis Washington, D.C.
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Join us
Register for these spring events at www.smithlifecommunities.org BRING THE ENTIRE FAMILY!
We Are Blessed Community Concert Featuring Rick Recht
Sunday, April 10, 2016 | 6:00 p.m. Music Center at Strathmore 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda, MD Hosted by the Harold and Shirley Robinson Philanthropic Fund, Bruce, Paula, and Debra Robinson. Open Seating, $10 | Family Package, $40 | Reserved Seating, $25 Children 5 and under, free.
Information: 301.770.8329 6th Annual Sara and Samuel J. Lessans Healthcare Symposium presented with Suburban and Sibley Memorial Hospitals, John Hopkins Medicine for community members and clinicians
New Approaches in Alzheimer’s Prevention, Treatment, and Research April 15, 2016 | 7:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Woodmont Country Club 1201 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD Keynote: Richard S. Isaacson, MD CME, CEU, contact hours, and early a.m. physician track offered
Information: 301.770.8329
REMEMBER THIS: Community Resources for Memory Care Patients and Their Caregivers Tuesday, May 3, 2016 | Free event 5:30 p.m. supper | 6:00 p.m. program Landow House 1799 E. Jefferson Street, Rockville, MD Information: 301.816.5052
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A P R I L 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N
Technology &
Innovations Fashionable tech can help you keep fit By Sally Abrahms Salvatore Angelone has gym equipment in his Fremont, N.H., house that didn’t exactly get a workout. But last April, the financial services project manager donned a “smart shirt” made by OMSignal, a technology company that works with fashion brands. “It was a game changer,” said Angelone, 52. “I’m in the best shape of my life.” The form-fitting compression shirt keeps sensors in place close to his body. They monitor biometric data and relay it to a mini-box that interprets the information and transmits it to an app on an iPhone, iWatch or iPod he sees in real time. Besides measuring steps, heart rate and calories like other fitness trackers, the shirt
monitors Angelone’s breathing rate and depth, stress levels, exertion, and past performance against how he’s doing that day. “You can go to a gym or lift weights in the basement and see changes over time, but this gives me that immediacy,” he said. A video on his smart shirt app also lets Angelone train “alongside” professionals. To clean the shirt, Angelone pops it in the washing machine (after removing the technology-laden mini-box). At $250 a shirt, it’s the price tag that could cause some sweat. Yet, retail sales of smart garments like the OMSignal shirt are predicted to jump to $3.57 billion in 2020, from $1 million in 2013, according to research firm Gartner.
The exponential growth is fueled in part by aging baby boomers, who are determined to stay healthy — as well as fashionable and tech savvy. “Nobody wants a piece of technology that identifies them as being frail or vulnerable,” said Dr. Arshya Vahabzadeh, innovation officer for the Massachusetts General Hospital Psychiatry Academy in Boston and an executive at a technology company developing wearables.
Dresses, shorts and more Available today are “connected dresses” by the French company Spinali Design (www.spinali-design.com). Its dresses, which go for $106 to $160, don’t provide
health data but discreetly let you click a button on your dress that messages someone if, say, you are in trouble. You can buy smart shorts from Athos (www.liveathos.com) that measure how hard your muscles are working. The company claims that its compression material reduces muscle fatigue. Sensoria (www.sensoriafitness.com) sells a sports bra that measures your heart rate, and a sock that measures your running form, such as cadence and foot landing. For those who meditate, a headband sold by Muse (www.choosemuse.com) monitors brain signals — when you’re reSee FASHIONABLE TECH, page 5
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laxed, you will hear the sound of calm winds, and when your mind is active, the wind sounds will pick up. The smart shirts are big sellers. While some shirts on the market are designed primarily for professional athletes, “our biggest growth is in the average Joe looking to get fit,” said Dave Mackey, OMSignal’s community manager. In 2016, the company plans to come out with a smart shirt for women. OMSignal (www.omsignal.com) has also teamed up with Ralph Lauren to produce a $295 men’s shirt, complete with black-box technology and a charging cable that will be out in time for the U.S. Open in the summer. It will read vital signs and transmit that information to an app that can customize workout programs. There are other smart shirts on the market, such as Hexoskin and Cityzen Sciences’ D-shirt (as in “digital shirt”), as well as those made by Gymi and Xsensio. One intriguing product is TruPosture (www.truposture.com), a $199 smart shirt that’s designed to improve posture and reduce back pain. Slated to come out in May, the shirt tracks the alignment of the spine and sends gentle vibrations if the user is leaning too far backward or forward. A mobile app or Web site provides visual displays of the user’s back alignment.
It was only a matter of time before hightech jewelry made its debut. The Apple Watch is in this category. So is Cuff (https://cuff.io), a two-yearold company that makes a tiny device that slips into its chic pendant or wrist wear. You can move the device from one piece of jewelry to another. Cuff vibrates when you get a call or text. You can press the device if you have an emergency, and it will alert others of your location. This month Cuff is adding a fitness tracking system. Prices range from $60 for a simple wristband to $215 for several pieces of jewelry. For fancier fare, the company Misfit (www.misfit.com) has partnered with Swarovski crystals to create elegant bracelets. One bracelet ($169) has a violet crystal that is solar charged so you don’t need batteries. Misfit also makes pendants and other wristbands. They all wirelessly track activity, such as steps, distance and calories. They also monitor how many times a night you wake up and move around, so you get a sense of how soundly you are sleeping.
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Asbury Methodist Village 409 Russell Ave, Gaithersburg, MD 301-987-6291
DO MORE WITH EMAIL
Prerequisite: Computer Basics or equivalent 3 sessions Limit: 10 Fee: $50 # 524 Mon May 9 – May 23 9:30am-11:30am Learn to take full advantage of your web-based email service. This course covers all aspects of email, including attachments and contact management. You use your own mail provider for most lessons. You need your email User ID and password for class.
MASTER MICROSOFT EDGE® BROWSER
Prerequisite: Computer experience & Windows 10 PC 2 sessions Limit: 10 Fee: $35 # 525 Tue May 10 – May 1 9:30am-11:30am # 526 Mon Aug 1 – Aug 8 9:30am-11:30am Edge is the new web browser provided with Windows 10. It contains a number of useful features that make your browsing easier. This course shows you how to setup the browser to best meet your needs and how to take advantage of the new features.
HOW CORTANA® CAN ASSIST YOU
Prerequisite: Computer experience & Windows 10 PC Fee: $20 1 session Limit: 10 # 527 Tue May 24 9:30am-11:30am Cortana is the new digital personal assistant integrated into Windows 10. This course shows you how you can use Cortana to find information, answer questions, find things on your computer and do different computer tasks.
HOW THE WEB WORKS
Prerequisite: None Fee: $20 1 session Limit: 10 # 528 Tue May 31 9:30am-11:30am You use World Wide Web every day. Ever wondered what goes on “behind the scenes” to make it all happen? You will be surprised. This class explains from start to finish how the Web page appears on your monitor screen nearly instantaneously. Come and learn – it is pretty amazing.
EXPLORE WINDOWS® 10 APPS
Prerequisites: Computer experience & Windows 10 PC Fee: $35 2 sessions Limit: 10 # 529 Tue Jun 7 – Jun 14 9:30am-11:30am Windows 10 comes with a number of Universal apps that provide useful features. This course explores several of the apps and shows you how to use the Windows Store to obtain additional ones. You will also learn how to manage apps on the Start menu.
MOVING UP TO WINDOWS® 10
Prerequisite: Computer experience & Windows 10 PC Fee: $85 6 sessions Limit: 10 # 530 Fri May 13 – Jun 17 9:30am-11:30am # 531 Tue Jul 5 – Aug 9 9:30am-11:30am You have upgraded your PC to the new Windows 10. Now you want to know how to take advantage of the several new features it introduces. This course explains what’s new and what’s familiar in Windows 10 and shows you how to use it to improve your computing experience.
TOTAL PHOTO WITH PICASA
Prerequisite: Experience taking digital photos and using a computer Fee: $65 4 sessions Limit: 10 # 532 Fri Jul 8 – Jul 29 9:30am-11:30am You need something that can do it all for your digital photos – organize, edit, and share – without investing a lot of money or buying features you don’t need. The free Picasa program from Google can do the job for you. This course shows you how to use Picasa’s tools to import, organize in albums, edit and then share your photos. Also, the future of Picasa is discussed.
ORGANIZE YOUR FILES WITH WINDOWS® 10
Prerequisite: Computer experience & Windows 10 PC Fee: $50 3 sessions Limit: 10 # 533 Mon Jul 11 – Jul 25 9:30am-11:30am Do you need to bring a little organization to your computer-based life? This course shows you the features of the new Windows 10 File Explorer application and how to use them to bring organization to your collection of documents and photos. File Explorer has a new “look” plus serval built-in features to assist you in crating and viewing folders, as well as moving, copying and renaming files.
WINDOWS® 10 & YOUR SMARTPHONE
Prerequisite: Computer experience & Windows 10 PC 1 sessions Limit: 10 Fee: $20 # 534 Fri Aug 5 9:30am-11:30am You have a Windows 10 PC and a smartphone using the google Android of apple iOS operating system. Would you like to see your Windows 10 email, calendar and contacts on your smartphone? This class shows you how using the Phone Companion Universal app that comes with your Windows 10. Please bring a fully charged smartphone to class (this class in not for people with an iPhone).
ONEDRIVE® & THE CLOUD
Prerequisite: Computer experience & Windows 10 PC Fee: $20 1 session Limit: 10 # 535 Fri Aug 12 9:30am-11:30am The Cloud is a new place to store files and do computing. Windows 10 provides you with free storage space on the OneDrive service. This course shows you what you can do with OneDrive and how you can use the Cloud to do computing.
ASSISTED PRACTICE
FREE sessions: an integral part of your learning. You must be registered for at least one class to participate. No Fee Wed May 11 – June 15 9:30am-1:30pm Wed Jul 6 – Aug 10 9:30am-1:30pm
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JCA Bronfman Center 12320 Parklawn Drive, Rockville, MD 240-395-0916
COMPUTER BASICS WITH WINDOWS® 7
Prerequisite: Windows 7 6 sessions Limit: 8 Fee: $85 # 536 Wed May 18 – Jun 22 1:30pm-3:30pm This course is for students who want to refresh or expand their computer skills. It covers the start menu and taskbar, files and folders, the World Wide Web, and use of applications; such as the word processor.
MICROSOFT WORD AND BEYOND
2010: FROM THE BEGINNING
Prerequisite: Computer Basics or equivalent Fee: $75 5 sessions Limit: 8 # 537 Mon June 6 – Jul 18 10:00am-12:00pm Learn basic word-processing skills using Microsoft Word, including hands-on experience creating documents of varying levels of complexity plus more advanced skills, such as illustrating documents with graphics, using templates, creating tables and advanced formatting.
FILE MANAGEMENT WORKSHOP
Prerequisite: Basic computer skills Fee: $20 1 session Limit: 8 # 538 Tues Jul 19 1:30pm- 3:30pm Learn how to manage your files – documents you’ve created, copied, downloaded, pictures and more.
YOUR IPAD® AND YOU
Prerequisite: iPad needs to be updated to the ios9.1 and have an Apple® ID and password. Bring fully charged iPad to class Fee: $65 4 sessions Limit: 8 # 539 Thurs Jun 9 – Jun 30 10:00am-12:00pm Learn the basics about what you can do with your iPad and how using a tablet is different from using a desktop or laptop computer. Topics include basic navigation, apps and where you get them, how to set up your email account, managing your contact list, taking and sharing pictures, listening to music, how to keep your iPad safe and running efficiently, and how to back up data.
10 AMAZINGLY USEFUL WEBSITES YOU NEVER KNEW EXISTED
Prerequisite: Computer Basics or equivalent Fee: $20 1 session Limit: 8 # 540 Tues Jun 14 10:00am-12:00pm # 541 Wed Aug 10 10:00am-12:00pm Learn about a wide range of useful websites. Tired of waiting for a company’s help desk to answer? There’s a website that gets them to call you! Print web pages without all the ads, find a manual for that appliance that needs repair, get great recipes and nutritional information, FREE coupons, FREE books and more!
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WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — A P R I L 2 0 1 6
IPHONE®,
AN INTRODUCTION
Prerequisite: Bring fully charged iPhone to class 2 session Limit: 8 Fee: $35 # 542 Wed Jun 15 – Jun 22 10:00am-12:00pm Learn to navigate the iPhone, make phone calls, surf the web, send messages, manage apps and more! IPHONE®
APPS
Prerequisite: Bring fully charged iPhone to class Fee: $20 1 session Limit: 8 # 543 Wed May 11 10:00am-12:00pm # 544 Wed Jul 13 10:00am-12:00pm Learn to use and organize apps. Explore apps to create reminders, read or listen to books, find directions, track health and fitness activities, share photos and more! Share YOUR favorite app! IPHONE®,
PHOTOGRAPHY
Prerequisite: Bring fully charged iPhone to class 1 session Limit: 8 Fee: $20 # 545 Wed Jul 27 10:00am-12:00pm Learn how to use the iPhone’s capabilities to take great pictures, organize photos, and share photos with friends and family.
SMARTPHONES AND TABLETS USING THE ANDROID OPERATING SYSTEM WORKSHOP
Prerequisite: Computer Basics or equivalent 1 session Limit: 8 Fee: $ 20 # 546 Mon May 23 10:00am-12:00pm Learn what the Android operating system is and how to work with its direct manipulation interface and see demonstrations of popular applications (apps) that run on Android.
BROWSING AND SEARCHING THE WEB **NEW**NEW**
Prerequisite: Computer Basics or equivalent 1 session Limit: 8 Fee: $ 20 # 547 Tues May 24 10:00am-12:00pm # 548 Wed Jul 20 10:00am-12:00pm Using Internet Explorer®, Google Chrome®, and Google® search to teach how to more effectively use the World Wide Web. We will teach the basics but go beyond including setting up favorites and bookmarks, creating a bookmark bar, opening multiple tabs, and adding extensions to the browser. Learn many techniques to more precisely find the information you want.
DO MORE WITH EMAIL
Prerequisite: Computer Basics or equivalent 3 sessions Limit: 10 Fee: $50 # 549 Tues Jul 12 – Jul 26 10:00am-12:00pm Learn to take full advantage of your web-based email service. This course covers all aspects of email, including attachments and contact management. You use your own mail provider for most lessons. You need your email User ID and password for class.
DISCOUNT! STUDENTS RECEIVE A 10% DISCOUNT WHEN BILL IS PAID IN FULL 2 WEEKS PRIOR TO THE START OF CLASS. If you have questions, call 240-395-0916 or email seniortech@accessjca.org
Technology & Innovations
JCA SENIORTECH EXCEL: THE BASICS
Prerequisite: Computer Basics or equivalent 3 sessions Limit: 8 Fee: $50 # 550 Thurs Jul 14 – Jul 28 10:00am-12:0pm Develop and learn how to create a basic spreadsheet and enter data, edit the cells, adjust columns and rows, “crossfooting” spreadsheets, using formulas in spreadsheets.
FACEBOOK IS EASY WORKSHOP
Prerequisite: Bring a picture of yourself and a picture you’d like to share in digital form (jpg). Fee: $20 1 session Limit: 8 # 551 Tues Jun 7 10:00am-12:00pm Find out how set up a Facebook account and keep it as private or public as you want. Share pictures, thoughts, or quotations with chosen friends.
IN’S AND OUT’S OF DESKTOP PUBLISHING – MICROSOFT PUBLISHER WORKSHOP
Prerequisite: Computer Basics or equivalent Fee: $20 1 session Limit: 8 # 552 Wed Jun 29 10:00am-12:00pm Ever wonder how to make flyers, newsletters, business cards or holiday letters look professional? This class will teach you a quick and easy way using Microsoft Publisher.
POWERPOINT®
Prerequisite: Computer Basics or equivalent Fee: $35 2 sessions Limit: 8 # 553 Mon May 9 – May 16 10:00am-12:0pm In this course you will learn to create your own Microsoft PowerPoint presentation by adding and deleting slides, creating different layouts, formatting your presentation and inserting images.
MEET THE TECHNOLOGY GURUS! BRING US YOUR PROBLEMS!
Fee: $30 per individual session Limit: 8 # 554 Date and time to be determined by Tech Guru Have a one-to-one lesson with our Tech Gurus. Experts are available to help individuals with hardware or software issues. Topics: Windows® 10, buying a new computer, securing your computer, backing up the cloud, laptop/desktop Issues, photos/videos, PowerPoint® and more. Your session will last 2 hours. After you register, you will be contacted to select a date and time for your session and to discuss the questions or issues you will be working on with one of our Tech Gurus.
MEET THE MAC TECHNOLOGY GURUS!
NEW NEW NEW
BRING US YOUR PROBLEMS!
Fee: $30 per individual session Limit: 8 # 555 Date and time to be determined by Tech Guru Have a 1:1 lesson with our Mac Tech Gurus. Experts are available to help individuals with hardware or software issues. Topics: iPhone®, iPad®, Apple® Laptops/computers. Your session will last 2 hours. After you register, you will be contacted to select a date and time for your session and to discuss the questions or issues you will be working on with one of our Tech Gurus.
TECH TALK
Presentations and Discussions on hot topics in technology
WHAT SHOULD I BUY?
Fee: $20 1 session Limit: 25 # 556 Tues May 24 10:00am-12:00pm As our desktops, laptops, phones and tablets come to the end of their useful lives consumers are unsure what purchase of new technology makes the sense. Questions you might be asking are: Can my phone or tablet replace my computer? Should I buy one of the new hybrid laptops? Does switching to an Apple computer make sense for my needs? How has camera technology ev olve in various devices? Should I upgrade to Windows 10? This two-hour discussion/class will consider
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the pros and cons of various hardware options and look at the application that run on the various platforms.
WINDOWS® 10: WHAT’S NEW
Fee: $20 1 session Limit: 25 # 517 Tue Apr 12 10:00am-12:00 pm # 557 Tues Jun 21 10:00am-12:00pm Microsoft is offering free upgrades to existing Windows users to go to the new Windows 10 operating system. In this 2 hour lecture and demonstration we will examine the new features that you will see in Windows 10 including: the new start menu and desktop, Microsoft App Store, tablet mode, using multiple desktops, looking at the upgrade process, and new apps included in Windows 10.
INTRODUCTION TO THE CLOUD
Fee: $20 1 session Limit: 25 # 558 Wed Jun 22 1:30pm-3:30pm There has been a lot of talk about “the cloud” recently. Learn what the cloud is and how to use it for storage, backup and sharing of files, pictures and music.
CUTTING THE OF CABLE
CABLE – TV WITHOUT THE PRICE
Fee: $20 1 session Limit: 25 # 559 Wed July 13 1:30pm-3:30pm With the availability of high-speed broadband internet, it is possible to enjoy television without the high price of cable TV. Learn about programs that are available online and how to watch on a standard HDTV set.
HEALTH INFORMATION ON WEBSITES
Fee: $20 1 session Limit: 25 # 519 Tues Apr 19 10:00am-12:00pm # 560 Tues July 12 10:00am-12:00pm Health information can be confusing, so many of us turn to the Internet for guidance. This class will present several Internet sources for reliable health-related information, government and non-government sites. You will learn how to navigate through them, learn how to evaluate websites, plus also gain some basic knowledge that can be used generally to evaluate Websites for the quality, reliability and credibility of their content. NOTE: This class presents general health websites, NOT medical information.
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REFUND POLICY:
Students who wish to withdrawl and receive a full refund must notify JCA at least 48 hours before the first class begins. A 50% refund is given after the first class.
ATTENTION:
Instruction, course materials and all computer language settings are in
English.
Courses are taught with Windows computers.
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Technology & Innovations
Crystal City
1750 Crystal Drive Shops, Crystal Square Arcade, Arlington, VA 703-941-1007
COMPUTER BASICS: INTRODUCTION TO THE PERSONAL COMPUTER USING WINDOWS© 10
Prerequisite: Bring a flash drive to class Fee: $85 6 sessions Limit: 8 # 561 Tues May 3 — Jun 7 10:30am-12:30pm # 562 Tues Jul 5 — Aug 9 10:30am-12:30pm This course is intended for people seeking to refresh or expand their computer skills. It covers the start menu and taskbar, files and folders, the World Wide Web, and use of applications such as the word processor.
JCA SENIORTECH FILE MANAGEMENT WORKSHOP
Prerequisite: Basic computer skills 1 session Limit: 8 Fee: $20 # 491 Wed Apr 14 10:30am-12:30pm # 568 Thurs Jun 16 10:30am-12:30pm Learn how to manage your files – documents you’ve created, copied, downloaded, pictures and more.
GRAPHICS EXPLORERS
Prerequisite: Knowledge of Photoshop® Elements software Elements 10 or 11 software Fee: $40 ongoing sessions Limit: 4 # 569 Mon May 2 – Jun 27 10:30am-12:30pm # 570 Mon Jul 11 – Aug 29 10:30am-12:30pm Graphics Explorers is a series of meetings with no fixed agenda or syllabus. There is no instructor. Students use Photoshop Elements 10 or 11 to enhance photographs, using several workbooks. Students provide their own copies of Photoshop Elements and workbooks.
EXCEL BASICS
GUIDE TO BUYING A PERSONAL COMPUTER (WORKSHOP)
EXCEL – BEYOND BASICS
INTRODUCTION TO POWERPOINT® WORKSHOP
Prerequisite: Computer Basics or equivalent Fee: $85 6 sessions Limit: 8 # 563 Thurs May 5 – Jun 9 10:30am-12:30pm Develop a basic spreadsheet, learn how to enter and format text and numbers, adjust column width to accommodate data, add or delete rows and columns, and align data within and across columns. Prerequisite: Excel Basics or equivalent Fee: $50 3 sessions Limit: 8 # 564 Thurs Jul 7 — Jul 21 10:30am-12:30pm Develop and format pie charts and columns charts. Use Excel as a database. Explore other subjects of interest.
THE CLOUD – WHAT IS IT? SHOULD YOU CARE? WORKSHOP
Prerequisite: Basic computing, keyboarding and mouse skills 1 session Limit: 8 Fee: $20 # 565 Thurs May 12 1:00pm–3:00pm # 566 Thurs Jul 21 1:00pm–3:00pm Students will learn what functions can be performed in the cloud and about cloud storage – who the providers are, what’s free and what isn’t. Students will also explore Microsoft’s OneDrive in some depth, setting up an account and briefly looking at a cloud computing application.
FACEBOOK IS EASY WORKSHOP
Prerequisite: Bring a picture of yourself and a picture you’d like to share in digital form (jpeg). 1 session Limit: 8 Fee: $20 # 489 Thurs Apr 21 10:30am-12:30pm # 567 Thurs Jul 28 10:30am-12:30pm Find out how set up a Facebook account and keep it as private or public as you want. Share pictures, thoughts, or quotations with chosen friends.
VOLUNTEER TO TEACH OR COACH We are looking for volunteers who are computer savvy, willing to share their knowledge, and would like to help people age 50+ learn new computer skills.
Fee: $20 1 session Limit: 8 # 495 Thurs Apr 7 10:30am-12:30pm # 571 Thurs Jun 23 1:00pm-3:00pm Learn about important issues to consider and features to look for when purchasing your next personal computer. Prerequisite: Basic computer knowledge and mouse skills 1 session Limit: 8 Fee: $20 # 572 Thurs Jun 30 10:30am-12:30pm PowerPoint is a program in Microsoft Office that enables you to make digital presentations. This workshop describes the basics of how to use PowerPoint for those who have never used it.
SECURING YOUR COMPUTER
Fee: $20 1 session Limit: 8 # 573 Mon Jun 20 1:00pm-3:00pm Learn about important security issues, including how hackers choose computers, phishing, spam email, website drive-by, botnets, passwords, administrative accounts, keeping applications updated, keeping the operating system updated, and malware protection.
ORGANIZING, EDITING AND SHARING PHOTOS WORKSHOP
Prerequisite: Basic computer and mouse skills 3 sessions Limit: 8 Fee: $50 # 574 Wed Jun 1 - Jun 15 10:30pm-12:30pm # 575 Wed Aug 3 – Aug 17 10:30am-12:30pm Learn to import digital photos from cameras, phones, and tablets and use Picasa, a free photo-editing program.
SMARTPHONES AND TABLETS USING THE ANDROID OPERATING SYSTEM WORKSHOP
Prerequisite: None. Bring your own fully charged device to class. 1 session Limit: 8 Fee: $20 # 576 Wed Jun 22 1:00pm-3:00pm Learn what the Android OS is and how to work with Android’s direct manipulation interface on smart phones and tablets.
TAMING WORD WORKSHOP
Prerequisite: Basic computer knowledge and mouse skills 2 sessions Limit: 8 Fee: $35 # 577 Wed May 4 – May 11 10:30am-12:00pm # 578 Wed Jul 6 – Jul 13 10:30am-12:30pm Learn how to make Microsoft Word your personal tool for word processing.
A P R I L 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N
UNDERSTANDING YOUR APPLE IPAD® WORKSHOP Prerequisite: Bring a fully charged Apple iPad to class 3 sessions Limit: 8 Fee: $50 # 504 Wed Apr 6-20 1:00pm-3:00pm # 579 Mon May 2 – May 16 1:00pm-3:00pm This course demystifies the iPad, starting with the hand gestures used to operate the device and the purpose of external buttons and switches, and progressing to hands-on use of a variety of standard iPad applications.
USING YOUR APPLE IPHONE® WORKSHOP
Prerequisite: Bring fully charged iPhone to class 1 session Limit: 8 Fee: $20 # 506 Mon Apr 18 1:00pm-3:00pm # 580 Mon Jun 27 1:00pm-3:00pm # 581 Mon Aug 22 1:00pm-3:00pm Learn how to use your iPhone to surf the Internet, take and share photos, play games, read books – and much more.
USING SKYPE® TO MAKE VIDEO OR AUDIO CALLS WORKSHOP
Fee: $20 1 session Limit: 8 # 508 Tues Apr 19 10:30am-12:30pm # 582 Thurs May 5 1:00pm-3:00pm # 583 Thurs Jul 14 1:00pm-3:00pm Learn how to use the free Skype application to communicate with relatives and friends.
VIEWING MOVIES ON YOUR PC WORKSHOP
Prerequisite: Basic computer skills Fee: $20 1 session Limit: 8 # 510 Wed Apr 27 1:00pm-3:00pm # 584 Wed Jun 1 1:00pm-3:00pm This is your chance to find out how to view movies in your home and pay little or nothing for viewing.
WINDOWS® 10 – HOW TO INSTALL IT WORKSHOP
Prerequisite: Ownership of a computer with Windows 7 installed and desire to update to Windows 10 1 session Limit: 8 Fee: $20 # 512 Thurs Apr 28 10:30am-12:30pm # 585 Mon Jun 6 1:00pm-3:00pm An update to Windows 10 is available free for a limited time to anyone now using Windows 7 as their operating system. Students will learn how to download and install Windows 10.
WINDOWS® 10 HOW TO USE IT WORKSHOP
Prerequisite: Basic Computer Skills Fee: $20 1 session Limit: 8 # 586 Wed May 18 1:00pm-3:00pm # 587 Thurs Jun 9 1:00pm-3:00pm # 588 Thurs Aug 11 10:30am-12:30pm Students will learn how to use Windows 10, the latest Microsoft operating system, including comparisons with Windows 7 and Windows 8.1; how to customize Edge, the new Internet provider replacing Internet Explorer; and file management.
ASSISTED PRACTICE
No Fee Limit: 5 FREE sessions: an integral part of your learning. You must be registered for at least one class to participate. When no classes are being offered, volunteers are available to help registered students practice what they learn in classes and workshops. Speak with your instructor for details.
For more information, call 240-395-0916.
Email seniortech@accessjca.org Website www.accessjca.org
WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — A P R I L 2 0 1 6
DESCRIPTION AND GUIDELINES
SeniorTech The Microsoft operating systems vary by site and include Windows® 7 and Windows® 10. Classes are designed to help adults, 50+, refresh or advance their computer skills and learn to use social media. Courses are taught by volunteer instructors and coaches. Courses are almost always “hands on” in which students practice skills and techniques on a computer during class.
Notice: Within the limits of its resources, JCA serves people of all faiths and from all walks of life. Indeed, we try to be as inclusive as possible in all that we do. Sometimes, however, JCA may deny a person or group the option to enroll or to continue to participate in all or particular programs and services. We reserve the right to do so, at our sole discretion, should we believe that our action is in the best interest of the individual or program or for any other reason not precluded by applicable law.
SENIORTECH REGISTRATION FORM
COMPUTER TRAINING
WAYS TO REGISTER: BY MAIL:
Include your payment with form to JCA SeniorTech 12320 Parklawn Drive Rockville, MD 20852-1726
BY PHONE: Call 240-395-0916 with your credit card information
NOTE: ALL REGISTRATIONS ARE DUE 7 DAYS PRIOR TO START OF CLASS. Name: _________________________________________________________________________________________ Address: _______________________________________________________________________________________ City: ____________________________________________________ State: _______ Zip Code: _______________ Phone#: ______________________________ Email: __________________________________________________ I have taken a JCA SeniorTech class before: ____ Yes ____ No
Student ID (Office use only)_______________
I WOULD LIKE TO REGISTER FOR: Class #
Class Title
Location
Start Date
Start Time
Fee
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$
#
$
#
$
#
$
#
$
#
$
10% DISCOUNT WHEN BILL IS PAID IN FULL 2 WEEKS PRIOR TO THE START OF CLASS
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TOTAL $ _________
PAYMENT METHOD:
❒ Master Card ❒ VISA ❒ American Express ❒ Check (Make Checks payable to JCA SeniorTech.)
WB4/16
INCLEMENT WEATHER POLICY
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Technology & Innovations
JCA SENIORTECH
Name as it appears on card: ____________________________________________________________
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Card Number
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____________ ____________ ____________ _____________
Exp. Date
______ /______
Sec. Code
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OFFICE USE ONLY Course #_____ Paid_____ Registration #_______ Date________
Each JCA SeniorTech center follows the weather-related decisions of the public school system in its jurisdiction, except that if a school system is closed for even part of the day, the center will be closed the entire day. As soon as possible, your instructor will arrange to make up any classes cancelled due to inclement weather.
Course #_____ Paid_____ Registration #_______ Date________
Course #_____ Paid_____ Registration #_______ Date________
Course #_____ Paid_____ Registration #_______ Date________
Course #_____ Paid_____ Registration #_______ Date________
Course #_____ Paid_____ Registration #_______ Date________
NOTICE: WITHIN THE LIMITS OF ITS RESOURCES, JCA SERVES PEOPLE OF ALL FAITHS AND FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE. INDEED, WE TRY TO BE AS INCLUSIVE AS POSSIBLE IN ALL THAT WE DO. SOMETIMES, HOWEVER, JCA MAY DENY A PERSON OR GROUP THE OPTION TO ENROLL OR TO CONTINUE TO PARTICIPATE IN ALL OR PARTICULAR PROGRAMS AND SERVICES. WE RESERVE THE RIGHT TO DO SO, AT OUR SOLE DISCRETION, SHOULD WE BELIEVE THAT OUR ACTION IS IN THE BEST INTEREST OF THE INDIVIDUAL OR PROGRAM OR FOR ANY OTHER REASON NOT PRECLUDED BY APPLICABLE LAW. Each contribution or remittance of payment by check is considered authorization to convert that particular check into an electronic fund transfer. If your check is unable to be converted, it may be processed as a Check Replacement Document drawn against your account. When we use information from your check to make an electronic fund transfer, funds may be withdrawn from your account as soon as the same day you make your payment, and you will not receive your check back from your financial institution. You have the right to opt out of Electronic Conversion. If you choose to exercise this right, write the words ‘Opt Out’ in the memo field of your check and JCA will process it as a draft against your account.
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Technology & Innovations | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com
Beacon Links & Apps By Barbara Ruben
LINKS Tech on your terms The website Tech50+ features dozens of articles on new gadgets, social media and more for an audience of older adults. As they say on the site, it’s tech “not through the eyes of a twenty-something working for a gadget site. Not through the eyes of a thirty-something marketing manager who is hoping to sell millions of whatever to people who aren’t us. Not
through the eyes of someone in a big box store who talks down to anyone with gray hair. “We want our readers to know what products work for us, and which don’t. We’ll tell you if we’ve had to call customer service to get some product to work right. We’ll let you know if you’re going to need a magnifying glass to read the manual, and if you’ll need a translator who knows how to explain it.” The site’s founder is Gary Kaye, a journalist who says he’s been covering technology since IBM introduced its first personal computer in 1981. www.tech50plus.com
Being neighborly Nextdoor is the private social network for you, your neighbors and your community. Its mission is to use the power of technology to build stronger and safer neigh-
A P R I L 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N
borhoods. Thousands of neighborhoods are already using the free site to link residents, and it’s easy to add your community and invite neighbors if you’re not already a part of it. People use Nextdoor for many reasons: to quickly get the word out about a breakin; organize a neighborhood watch group; track down a trustworthy babysitter; find a handyman or plumber; ask for help in finding a lost dog, and selling or giving away unneeded possessions. http://nextdoor.com
Get cooking Did you never get around to learning the basics of cooking? Or maybe you need to brush up your skills. Startcooking.com has you covered. It has dozens of easy recipes, along with videos on how to make them and learn basic cooking skills. http://startcooking.com
APPS Homegrown fitness app Local developers for personalized video workout app Sworkit vied for additional capital on the ABC show “Shark Tank” on Feb. 19 and walked away with a $1.5 million investment. The free fitness app for both Apple and Android devices offers users both customizable and randomized workouts. Sworkit CEO is Washingtonian Ben Young, who was named Techpreneur of the Year by Black Enterprise Magazine. Sworkit offers strength, stretching, cardio, Pilates and yoga, all demonstrated by trainers. Workouts can be synced to programs like Google Fit and MyFitnessPal. Sworkit Premium, a subscription service, includes ad-free workouts and an ask-atrainer feature. http://sworkit.com/
When you gotta go The RunPee name and tagline says it all: “Because movie theaters don’t have pause buttons.” The RunPee app gives movie theatre patrons a list of one to four moments in each movie when you can run and pee, and will describe briefly what you will miss while you’re out. It even has a timer you start when the movie begins so your phone vibrates before each time it’s safe to take a bathroom break. The app also lets you know if there is anything during or after the end credits that you should stick around for. In addition, the RunPee app gives a synopsis of the first three minutes of most moves just in case you’re late. Free for Apple and Android devices. http://runpee.com
Fashionable tech From page 5 bypass, for instance, might put on a smart shirt and have a medical team monitor the biometric data, or an alarm might go off if something seems wrong. Helen Koo, an assistant professor of design at the University of California, Davis, designs smart clothing. She and two students have created a jacket with sensors called Enfold to help people with limited movement of their arms and legs to dress. Using origami techniques, the jacket has wires in the folds that memorize your shape, and bend and straighten the polyester fabric when electrical current goes through them. Two parts of the jacket come together and a magnet fastens it. The jacket is under patent review. All contents © 2016 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — A P R I L 2 0 1 6
Say you saw it in the Beacon
Health Fitness &
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LIVING WITH PARKINSON’S No cure yet, but many treatments can relieve Parkinson’s symptoms LEFT SPEECHLESS A mystery brain disorder can prevent sufferers from being able to talk SALAD DAYS Dark, leafy greens can help you shed pounds and keep your brain young NOT FEELING FRISKY? Try yoga, dark chocolate and DHEA to help get you in the mood
Four foods you can enjoy in full-fat form By Lisa D’Agrosa, R.D If you lived through the relatively long era when fat was considered the enemy, you may have been surprised by recent research suggesting that fat — and even saturated fat — plays an important role in our diets. With 9 calories per gram (versus the 4 calories per gram found in proteins or carbohydrates), fat is still a higher-calorie choice. But remember that fat adds flavor to foods and helps keep you full, because it takes a long time to digest. Sometimes it might even be smarter to choose the full-fat version of certain foods, as their low-fat counterparts may include unhealthy fillers meant to replace naturally occurring fat. Here are four foods you might want to consider buying and enjoying full-fat.
Full-fat natural peanut butter Peanuts have healthy monounsaturated fats that help to lower heart disease risk. When the peanuts are partially defatted to
make reduced-fat peanut butters, the missing fat is replaced with added sugar and starches. As a result, most reduced-fat spreads don’t give you much of a calorie savings. It depends on which brand you choose, but both regular and reduced-fat peanut butters deliver about 200 calories per 2-tablespoon serving. Look for natural peanut butter, the kind that contains just peanuts and maybe a little salt, to avoid added hydrogenated oils and sugars.
Eat the whole egg Although not technically a “reduced-fat” version of a whole egg, egg whites are often viewed as a healthier choice. But when you toss out the golden yolk, you’re losing half the protein (about 3 grams), which helps make eggs a powerhouse choice for breakfast. Plus, the yolk is where healthy nutrients live, like calcium and eye-protecting lutein and zeaxanthin. The center of the egg has been thought of
as a heart disease promoter, because yolks are a significant source of dietary cholesterol. But researchers now think that eating one whole egg daily is fine for most people.
Salad dressings The fats in most salad dressings are typically vegetable oils, so-called “good fats” that help lower levels of “bad” LDL cholesterol. Furthermore, having some fat in the salad dressing actually helps you make the most of the nutrients in the salad greens and other veggies. Carotenoids like lutein, lycopene, beta carotene and zeaxanthin require a little fat for absorption. These fatsoluble compounds are associated with reduced risk of heart disease, macular degeneration and even some cancers. And while the calories may be lower in many low-fat dressings, the missing fat is usually replaced with added sugars and starches, fake flavors and color enhancers. Choose bottled dressings made with heart-healthy olive and canola oils (and
with a simple ingredient list).
Eat some full-fat dairy Full-fat dairy is making a comeback. A recent review of 16 studies that looked at the link between obesity and low-fat or fullfat dairy found that, in more than half of the studies, eating full-fat dairy instead of low-fat was actually associated with lower body weight. This may be because full-fat versions are linked with greater satiety, so you eat less. Just remember that dairy still contains calories, so moderation is key. Maybe order a latte with whole milk instead of nonfat, or buy some whole-milk yogurt next time you’re grocery shopping. Your taste buds will thank you, and you probably won’t be doing your body any harm. EatingWell is a magazine and website devoted to healthy eating as a way of life. Online at www.eatingwell.com. © 2016 EatingWell, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Ways to trick yourself into liking exercise By Nicci Micco You know that exercise usually makes you feel better, but sometimes life, or excuses, can get in the way. You can spend 20 minutes debating about whether it might rain, or focusing on all of the reasons why right now is not a good time to walk — or you could just lace up your shoes and go. When it becomes easier to talk yourself out of exercise than it does to just get out there, don’t give up: Give yourself a motivator. It never hurts to have goals (and rewards!) in place to help give you that extra push out the door.
Reward yourself Maybe you walk (instead of drive) to meet your friends at the coffee shop. (Bonus: Going through the effort of exercising may help you resist the doughnut once you get there!) Perhaps you make a deal with yourself that you can only watch your TV program while you’re on the treadmill or doing other exercises.
Eyes on the prize Remember those star charts that rewarded good behavior when you were a
kid? Create one to keep track of your exercise. First define your prize: a night out at the movies (or a night at home with a rented one)? Some new music? Then decide how many “stars” (or check marks) you need to get — maybe 12 over the course of a month — to earn your prize. Then, get moving!
Every little bit helps Walking with your dog is legitimate physical activity. Even vacuuming the house counts for something: it’s lifestyle exercise. When you remember that these everyday
chores count toward your get-healthy goal, it’s easier to get motivated — and accomplish a few tasks around the house.
Recruit a friend Ask a friend who also is trying to get healthier to join you on your walks. Knowing that he or she is counting on you may make it less likely that you’ll skip your planned activity. And consider setting a big goal together. Maybe there’s a 5K charity walk you could See EXERCISE, page 12
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A P R I L 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N
Parkinson’s progression is hard to predict By Ryan Uitti, M.D. Dear Mayo Clinic: My father is 64 and was diagnosed with Parkinson’s last year. So far his symptoms are very mild, but I’m wondering what the typical progression of the disease is like. I have read that deep brain stimulation is sometimes recommended. When is this type of treatment usually considered? Is it safe? Answer: The symptoms of Parkinson’s
disease, or PD, tend to begin very gradually and then become progressively more severe. The rate of progression is hard to predict and is different from one person to another. Treatment for PD includes a variety of options, such as exercise, medication and surgery. Deep brain stimulation is one surgical possibility for treating PD, but it’s usually only considered in advanced cases when other treatments don’t effectively control symptoms.
Parkinson’s disease is a syndrome that typically has no known cause. The diagnosis is based on symptoms, of which there can be many. The most common include excessive slowness and lack of movement, as well as shaking or tremor. Neurologists who specialize in movement disorders typically have the most experience with PD diagnosis and treatment.
Slow worsening of symptoms As in your father’s situation, symptoms are often mild at the outset. How quickly they get worse varies substantially, perhaps because there may be multiple underlying causes of the disease. In most cases, symptoms change slowly, with substantive progression taking place over the space of many months or years. Many people with PD have symptoms for at least a year or two before a diagnosis is actually made. The longer symptoms are present, the easier it is to predict how a person with PD will do over time. In those who have tremor and symptoms on one side of the body only, the disease typically advances more slowly than in those without tremor who have symptoms that affect both sides of the body, as well as walking. While life expectancy is marginally re-
Exercise From page 11 sign up for. You may be motivated to train, and you’ll be helping a worthy cause.
“Me time” If you can convince yourself to think of exercising as “me time,” and not just another chore you have to check off your list, you might be able to see the act of exer-
duced, people with PD usually function quite well for many years. They are, however, at an increased risk to develop instability that could lead to falls. They also have a higher risk for dementia. These two possibilities represent the greatest potential difficulties for those with PD.
Symptoms are treatable While no treatment is currently available to slow the natural progression of PD, this condition is by far the most treatable of all neurodegenerative disorders. The vast majority of patients see major improvements in their symptoms with treatment that includes exercise and medication. For example, most people who have PD are able to function better in their daily lives five years after they start medication treatment than they were before they started treatment. Surgery is only rarely required to treat PD, and usually is in the form of deep brain stimulation. This procedure involves placing an electrode into the brain that is connected to a battery. It delivers a small electric discharge into the brain, which influences the brain circuitry and improves symptoms. See PARKINSON’S, page 13
cise as a reward in itself. Whether you’re at the gym, on a walk, or riding your bike, no one is likely to bother you. Think of it as a break from your normal reality, and it might even start feeling like the best part of your day. EatingWell is a magazine and website devoted to healthy eating as a way of life. Online at www.eatingwell.com. © 2016 Eating Well, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
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Mystery brain disorder robs one of words By Lauran Neergaard A mysterious brain disorder sometimes confused with early Alzheimer’s disease doesn’t rob patients of their memories, but of the words to talk about them. It’s called primary progressive aphasia, and researchers say they’re finding better ways to diagnose the little-known syndrome. That will help people whose thoughts are lucid but who are verbally locked in to get the right kind of care. “I’m using a speech device to talk to you,” Robert Voogt of Virginia Beach, Va., said by playing a recording from a phonesized assistive device at a recent meeting of the American Association for the Advancement of Science. “I have trouble speaking, but I can understand you.” Even many doctors know little about this rare kind of aphasia, abbreviated PPA, but raising awareness is key to improving care. A new study is underway to try to slow the disease by electrically stimulating the affected brain region. PPA wasn’t identified as a separate disorder until the 1980s, and while specialists estimate thousands of Americans may have it, there’s no good count. Families may not even seek care because they assume a loved one’s increasingly garbled attempts to communicate are due to age-related dementia, said Dr.
Parkinson’s From page 12 Most people who undergo surgery for PD have had symptoms for at least five years. Surgery can be helpful when medications don’t consistently control symptoms, or when tremor persists despite medication. Serious complication rates for deep brain stimulation surgery are low, with most institutions reporting a 1 to 2 percent risk for serious side effects. Several other disorders similar to PD, known as atypical parkinsonism, have a less favorable long-term outlook than PD. In some cases, it can be hard to distinguish these conditions from PD. After several years of symptoms, however, determining the cor-
Argye Elizabeth Hillis of Johns Hopkins University. Often, it’s when those people reach neurologists who realize they aren’t repeating questions or forgetting instructions that the diagnosis emerges. “Nobody’s talking to them, nobody’s involving them. It’s very sad,” said Dr. Margaret Rogers of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. Yet for many, “they can handle their own finances, they can drive, they can appreciate music. There’s a lot that still works for them.”
Damage to brain Speech and language are hugely complex. Just to speak requires activating 100 muscles between the lungs and lips to produce at least 14 distinct sounds per second, said Dr. Joseph Duffy of the Mayo Clinic. Stroke or brain injury patients often have trouble making sounds or retrieving words. PPA occurs for a different reason, because the brain regions that control language become diseased and degenerate, resulting in communication difficulties that may mimic broader dementia. Special MRI scans can tell the difference, Hillis said. They also can help identify whose aphasia will worsen faster, and who has a subtype that can morph to become Alzheimer’s-like, where they eventurect diagnosis is relatively straightforward. Working closely with his neurologist, it is likely that your father will be able to achieve acceptable PD symptom control. It’s important that he contact his physician if he notices changes in symptoms, so treatment can be adjusted as needed over time. — Ryan Uitti, M.D., Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Fla. Mayo Clinic Q & A is an educational resource and doesn’t replace regular medical care. E-mail a question to MayoClinicQ&A @mayo.edu. For more information, visit www.mayoclinic.org. © 2016 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. All Rights Reserved. Distributed By Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
ally do lose memory and the ability to understand language. Standard language therapy has patients match pictures to the correct word, to keep the wiring involved as active as possible. Now, Hillis’ team is testing if a kind of brain stimulation that sends electrical signals through the skull can rev up the effects of that treatment. In the first 19 patients tested, people did better retrieving the right words for about two months after receiving the electrical stimulation than when they received sham zaps with their regular therapy, Hillis reported. They were more able to name objects they hadn’t practiced, and brain scans
showed better connectivity in the affected region. But it will take far more study to prove if the treatment produces lasting effects, she cautioned.
Assistive devices give voice Until there’s better medical treatment, Voogt, the Virginia patient, illustrates how assistive communication devices can help patients’ quality of life. Now 66, Voogt was diagnosed 10 years ago with a form of PPA that makes him unable to say words even though he can understand and type them via email, text or his assistive device. He owns a brain-injury See BRAIN DISORDER, page 14
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A P R I L 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N
Surprise insurance fees after emergencies By Matthew Perrone As health insurance plans become increasingly complicated, more patients are facing unexpected fees when they step outside their plan’s coverage network. In many cases, patients don’t even realize they’ve received out-of-network care until they’re slapped with a bill for hundreds or thousands of dollars. Nearly a third of insured Americans who have financial problems tied to medical bills faced charges that their insurance would not
cover, according to a recent survey by the Kaiser Family Foundation. These out-of-network charges were a surprise to nearly 70 percent of patients, who did not know the services were not covered, according to the non-partisan policy group. Here are some key questions and answers about out-of-network charges and potential steps for protecting yourself. Q: How does this problem occur? It usually happens when people need to be hospitalized for medical care. Even
though services from their primary physician may be covered by their in-network insurance coverage, services provided by other professionals — such as anesthesiologists, radiologists and emergency doctors — often aren’t. In those cases, the patient will be billed at out-of-network rates. The often-hefty bills leave many consumers angry and confused. Determining whether various specialists are in your network can be difficult, sometimes impossible, particularly during emergency situations. “You can’t wake up from a heart attack and say to the ambulance provider, ‘Excuse me, are you in my network?’” said Karen Pollitz, who has studied the issue for the Kaiser Family Foundation. Q: How much do these fees cost consumers?
Experts say there is little hard data on the cost of out-of-network charges or how frequently they occur. But a 2011 study by the state of New York found that the average out-of-network emergency bill was about $7,000. After assistance from insurance and other services, most consumers still had to pay roughly $3,780. Q: Is there anything I can do to protect myself? If you have a scheduled surgical procedure coming up, experts say there are certain precautions you can take to insulate yourself from surprise fees. But they warn that even these will not guarantee you won’t be touched by out-of-network providers. Call the hospital in advance and do what
Brain disorder
and the device “said” the word for him. His form of PPA also impacts grammar so that he has difficulty forming full sentences, Hillis said. Asked to write that’s “it’s a cold day in Washington,” Voogt typed a minute or two and the device’s recorder emitted “cold Washington D.C.” Voogt typed that he started relying on the device in 2012, but lives independently and travels internationally. But asked how difficult the loss of language is to live with, he typed out a pretty bad rating — 70 percent. — AP
From page 13 rehabilitation center, and knew how to track down a specialist for diagnosis when he first had trouble retrieving words. Voogt patiently answered Hillis’ questions by typing into a device called the MiniTalk, or calling up verbal phrases he’d pre-programmed into it. Asked to say “dog,” Voogt forced out only a garble. But asked what cowboys ride, he typed horses
See INSURANCE FEES, page 15
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Five good reasons to love dark, leafy greens By Marissa Donovan, R.D Dark, leafy greens — like kale, spinach and collards — are packed with fiber and vitamins A, C and K. They are delicious raw, in a stir-fry, sautéed or added to dishes like casseroles, omelets or soups. You may already know that these greens are vitamin and nutrient powerhouses, but they also provide some other, surprising benefits. Here are five more reasons to help convince you to eat more dark, leafy greens.
Shed pounds Adding dark, leafy greens, or any other veggie for that matter, to a meal results in eating fewer calories without increasing hunger, according to a study published in Nutrition Reviews. Their fiber and water content help greens fill you up and keep you feeling full longer — which can help you lose weight and keep it off. Try chopping up greens with larger
Insurance fees From page 14 you can to make sure the surgeon and assistants handling the procedure are part of your insurance network. You can also talk to the hospital and request that any tests are sent to in-network laboratories for processing. Surprise fees often arise when hospitals send blood samples or medical scans to outside facilities for development. Even in these situations, however, hospitals often cannot tell you which radiologist or anesthesiologist will be handling your particular procedure. That means even if you’ve tried to pre-manage the process, you may receive care from an out-of-network provider. Q: I’ve already received a bill that includes these charges. What can I do now? The first step is to call your insurance company and let them know what happened. Some employer-sponsored health plans have policies where patients are not responsible for out-of-network charges, especially if they occur during an emergency. Even if your plan doesn’t have such a bene-
leaves and adding them to soups. You can even chop the stalks of most dark, leafy greens and add them to the pot along with the leaves.
for Nutrition conference. Researchers think vitamin K plays a main role by helping create sphingolipids — special fats that are critical to brain function. The lutein, folate and
beta carotene in the greens may also help. Because dark, leafy greens cook down See LEAFY GREENS, page 16
Slash your risk for diabetes Dark, leafy greens are high in beta carotene and alpha carotene, antioxidants in the carotenoids family. In a 2015 study, researchers tracked the diets of men and women for 10 years and found that those who had diets high in alpha and beta carotene had reduced risk for type 2 diabetes. Make a salad with tender baby greens from spinach, mustard greens, kale or chard to help get more greens in your diet for very few calories.
Help keep your brain young People who ate one to two servings of dark, leafy greens a day had mental abilities of those over a decade younger, says research presented at the American Society
fit, insurance companies can try and work with the hospital to negotiate lower fees. You can also check if your state has a consumer assistance program to help patients with health insurance problems. Currently, nine states, including Maryland and the District of Columbia, run such programs. Maryland’s consumer assistance program can be reached at 1-877-261-8807 or online at www.oag.state.md.us/Consumer.HEAU.htm. In D.C., call 1-877-685-6391 or email healthcareombudsman@dc.gov. Q: Is anyone working on a permanent solution to these problems? Most experts who have studied the issue say legal changes are needed to protect consumers from surprise medical fees. In most cases, that means new laws at the state level. New York recently implemented a law that relieves patients from out-of-network expenses that arise from emergencies or certain other circumstances. The law does not eliminate the fees, but instead requires insurance companies and hospitals to begin negotiations to resolve the charges. — AP
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Protein powders can help build muscle By Victoria Shanta Retelny, R.D. Stroll through the grocery store and you’ll see a flurry of food products proudly touting their protein content — whether it’s naturally occurring or added to foods like cereals and breads. It makes sense. Protein is a powerhouse nutrient. While it’s better to get protein from real food, it’s not surprising that food companies are adding protein at every turn, or that people are using powders in smoothies, baked goods and more.
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If you fall into the latter category, you’ve probably wondered which protein powder to choose from among the dozens of protein powders on offer. Here’s a closer look at the ones most commonly added by food manufacturers. Soy (soy protein isolate, soy protein powder, hydrolyzed soy protein) Origin: Soybeans. This powerful plant protein can hold its own compared with animal protein. Research has shown that soy protein increases muscle mass and im-
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proves strength during and after exercise just as well as beef protein. Soy protein is unique in that it contains naturally occurring antioxidants called isoflavones, which can help reduce muscle damage during and after exercise. Bonus: Helps muscles, boosts iron. Whey (whey protein isolate, whey protein concentrate, hydrolyzed whey protein) Origin: Cow’s milk. Whey protein is composed mostly of an amino acid called leucine, which is the most potent for building muscles. Whey may also be good for your waistline. When researchers gave people a whey protein drink, they lost about four pounds more and about an inch more from their waists over six months, and felt less hungry than people given a carbohydrate shake instead. Bonus: Helps muscles; boosts calcium; slims you down. Pea (pea protein powder, pea protein isolate) Origin: Yellow peas. Unlike soy and whey, pea protein is free of common allergens. This plant protein is particularly high in the amino acid arginine, a precursor to creatine, which delivers energy to muscles. Recent research also revealed that pea protein might build muscle mass
as well as whey protein does. Plus, preliminary research suggests it may have even more appetite-curbing power than whey protein. Bonus: Helps muscles; boosts iron; keeps you satiated.
Leafy greens
Fend off cancer
From page 15 quickly, try steaming or sautéing greens and serving as a vitamin K-rich side dish.
Build better bones
Closer to Home -
©2015:HealthSouth Corporation:390346-10
The dairy aisle isn’t the only place to find calcium-rich foods; dark, leafy greens are also a good source. Calcium is needed to build bones and teeth, as well as keep your muscles and nerves functioning. Pair dark, leafy greens and dairy for the biggest impact on your calcium levels. An omelet packed with dark, leafy greens and a little bit of cheese can help you meet your daily calcium needs.
1
Pick a better protein powder If you’re planning to add protein powder to smoothies or baked goods, look for one with a simple ingredient list (made with just one or two ingredients). Many protein powders contain add-ins like sweeteners, oil, salt, thickeners and artificial colors. One tablespoon of protein powder adds about 4 grams of protein. Women need about 46 grams of protein daily; men should aim for 56 grams. But don’t rely on protein powders to provide enough protein to power you through the day. Other foods high in protein include meat, fish, beans, dairy, nuts and eggs. Higher-protein diets are linked with lower Body Mass Index (BMI) and smaller waists. Protein also helps satisfy your appetite long after you’ve eaten, fuels your active lifestyle as it maintains and builds muscle, and even slightly revs metabolism (it requires more energy to burn compared to carbohydrates and fat). © 2016 Eating Well, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Studies show that carotenoids — pigments in dark, leafy greens — may lower your risk of head, neck, breast, stomach, skin and lung cancers. Researchers think carotenoids act as antioxidants in the body, helping fend off harmful free radicals. These greens are also rich in vitamin C, which is linked with reduced risk of head and neck cancers. Chopped spinach, bok choy or chard can add extra vitamins and nutrients to a stir-fry. EatingWell is a magazine and website devoted to healthy eating as a way of life. Online at www.eatingwell.com. © 2016 Eating Well, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
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WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — A P R I L 2 0 1 6
April 2016
UPCOMING SEMINARS & EVENTS at Brooke o G Grove ov e retirement et re en village
As experts in ssenior io care and memory support, Brooke Grovee Retirement tir mee Village is pleased events spiritual and mental d to o ooffer seminars and ev nt that promote physical, caa sp al well-being. el Alll seminarss and a events will be held at Brooke rookee Grove v Rehabilitation and nd Nursing Center, located cat at 18131 Slade Sc School Road on tthe Brooke Bro Grove ov Retirement e Villagee campus. c Please register with Pl P lease reg gister w ith Toni Daviss at 301-388-7209 3 301-388-720 09 or or tdavis@bgf.org. tdaviis@ @bgf bgff.orgg. Smooth move seminar: “HOW TO SELL YOUR HOME FOR TOP DOLLAR” April 7, 2-3 p.m.
Support for the Caregiver Seminar: “FINANCIAL PLANNING FOR ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE” April 19, 2-3 p.m.
Get the inside scoop about the local real estate market and how to approach the sale of your home, including timing, pricing, sorting through possessions and home improvements with the best rate of return. FREE. Register by April 5.
After your loved ones diagnosis of Alzheimer’s, you can reduce financial stress by planning ahead. Learn where to begin, what costs you should expect, how to pay for care and where you can find professional assistance. FREE. Register by April 17.
Living Well Seminar: “MAINTAINING JOINT HEALTH AND AN ACTIVE LIFESTYLE” April 20, 7-8:15 p.m. Discover what you can do to delay or prevent conditions that damage aging joints as well as treatment options that will allow you to continue to lead a healthy, active lifestyle. Light complimentary dinner at 6:30 p.m. FREE. Register by April 18.
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Genesis From page 1 puter and chairs to facilitate interaction. Residents who earn up to the 50 percent of the area median income [from $37,450 for a one-person household to $62,100 for a sixperson family] pay 30 percent of their monthly income as rent. Those who earn 51 to 80 percent of the area median income pay a fixed rent. For example, a one-bedroom unit for such earners is $1,200/month. “When I saw the rent I have to pay, my heart swelled,” Osunkoya recalled. “I can afford it!” To be considered for residency, potential tenants, young and old, must fill out questionnaires, pass background checks, and participate in an interview. Once they are residents, they must commit to helping out in some capacity in the community for
about eight hours a month — from babysitting to helping with homework. A 22-year-old son of one of the residents teaches computer classes for the older residents. Sometimes the help required is a simple as a ride to the grocery store, cooking tips, or lending a cell phone.
A bridge to young adulthood Residents of all ages seem to find value in getting to know the other generations in the building. At age 18, foster children “age out” of the system and are no longer eligible for the same benefits they received when they were minors. At that time, they also become at risk for an even more difficult life. According to the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption, one in five former foster children will become homeless, only half will be employed by age 24, and 71 percent
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of the young women will be pregnant by age 21. “By definition, [young foster mothers] didn’t have extended family to help them become good parents, so Genesis made a lot of sense,” said Brenda Donald, D.C.’s deputy mayor for Health and Human Services. “We are hoping to do another project like this down the road. There is a lot of interest.” Jessie M. Jackson, 78, a former daycare worker, says she loves to babysit, and tells the young mothers, “We’re here anytime you need us to help you.” Kyir Parrish, 22, recently aged out of the foster care system after a childhood of bouncing among relatives and foster homes in Washington, D.C., Baltimore and Pennsylvania. “I didn’t have a good relationship with my grandmother,” said Parrish, who now has two children of her own, ages 4 and 20 months. “Living here has helped me have a new perspective with older people,” whom she turns to for advice. Genesis is also the first home where Parrish has felt independent. “This is the first place I was ever that has given me the freedom and responsibility for living life on my own,” she said. “I am living in a community where I feel safe.” Deciding to move into Genesis was an easy decision for Gwendolyn Wright, 21. “I want a different outcome [for my son] than I had when I was growing up,” she said looking at her active 11-month-old Amari-
on, who was crawling across Genesis’s conference room table. After shuffling through an array of homes with few adult role models, Wright now looks at some of Genesis’s older residents as mentors. To help facilitate connections between the generations, older adults are paired with a young mothers to help create bonds, and weekly “coffee and chat” events are held. The two age groups are planning joint events, such as viewing party for the spring premiere of the television show “Empire,” and perhaps a spa day. Bonnie Duffy Page raised a foster daughter herself and wanted to be a part of Genesis. She says she likes Genesis because “It’s alive. It’s vibrant. It has a heartbeat. I wanted to be where there are residents of all ages and not just seniors. I really want to be a role model for young people because they are our future.”
A collection of communities Genesis is the latest of the Generations of Hope intergenerational communities, the first of which was Hope Meadows in Illinois. That project, which also included apartments for older adults, was designed to provide community support to families adopting children from foster care. See GENESIS, page 19
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Genesis From page 18 Other projects include “kinship families,” in which grandparents or other extended family members care for young relatives and families that have been affected by incarceration.
A community that combines people with autism and older adults is in the planning stages in Howard County, Md. “In all the communities, there is a sense of mutual support: ‘I’m giving, but also being supported and valued. I’m using the wisdom I’ve accumulated over my life, and doing something useful with it,’” said
Other innovative housing partnerships Washington Interfaith Network, WIN, a coalition of about 40 religious congregations and nonprofit organizations, focuses on developing neighborhood leaders and addressing community issues, particularly affordable housing and employment. Through partnerships, and in cooperation with D.C. government, the organization has built nearly 4,000 units of affordable housing for a variety of populations from seniors to homeless teens. Some housing is geared to entry level workers, such as teachers and police, as well as returning veterans. “The issue of affordable housing in the District is at a crisis level,” said Rev. Lionel Edmonds, who helped found WIN 20 years ago and is pastor at Mt. Lebanon Baptist Church in Washington, D.C. “Someone who makes between $40,000 and $60,000 uses 60 percent of their income toward housing [in this area]. So this means that seniors [whose incomes are often below that] don’t have any place to live. They have to choose between housing, medicine and food.” When D.C. put the former Margaret Murray Washington Public School at O and 1st Streets NW up for bid, Edmonds
and WIN proposed to build House of Lebanon, an affordable apartment building for seniors, on the site. They transformed the school, retaining the wood floors, tall windows and high ceilings of the original structure, carving out 82 subsidized apartments whose rent ranges from $400 to $1,000 a month. There is currently a waiting list for apartments. There is also an activity center in the building where Edmonds brings in regular programming for residents. CVS often sponsors health programs, including yoga and other exercise classes, as well as speakers on a variety of topics. Edmonds said that another WIN senior affordable apartment building, Emory Beacon of Light, will break ground this summer at the intersection of Georgia and Missouri Avenues, just south of Genesis. For more information about WIN, see www.windc-iaf.org or call (202) 5039695. To learn more about House of Lebanon senior apar tments, see www.houseoflebanonsenior.com or call (202) 719-0441. — Barbara Ruben
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Mark Dunham, external affairs counsel for Generations of Hope. He said that there is a high retention rate of seniors in these communities. “They come and settle in. It’s aging-inplace at its best for them. We like to call it ‘community assisted living.’ You have the community stepping in and really assisting you,” Dunham said. Dellie Reed, 64, couldn’t agree more. She lived in the neighborhood and moved to Genesis when she decided to downsize from her single family house. “I was quite intrigued by the program. I thought I could be a mentor, but I also
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thought I could learn from [the young mothers],” said Reed, who has a 30-yearold daughter but no grandchildren. “With the young ladies, there’s a trust factor. I feel trust with some of them. They tell others that I’ll listen and won’t tell it to the others.” In addition to reading to children in the library, Reed also helps with homework. “One boy comes and knocks on the door every day. He doesn’t even ask for help anymore. He just comes in and sits at the table and looks for his pen. Then he looks at the cupboard and asks for noodles,” Reed said with a smile.
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Health Studies Page
A P R I L 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N
THE PLACE TO LOOK FOR INFORMATION ON AREA CLINICAL TRIALS
Testing a drug that may slow memory loss By Barbara Ruben About 5.3 million Americans have Alzheimer’s disease, and that number is expected to grow to 7.1 million by 2025. While there is not yet a treatment that can prevent or reverse Alzheimer’s, researchers are studying a number of drugs that have the potential to slow memory loss. One such trial is underway at Georgetown University, which is seeking participants with early Alzheimer’s disease and with mild cognitive impairment — a condition where there is some loss of memory
and thinking ability that increases the risk of getting Alzheimer’s disease. The study is testing how effective the drug aducanumab may be in slowing progression of these diseases. “One of the causes of memory loss is the buildup of a protein called amyloid — also known as plaques — in the brain,” said Emily Voeller, clinical trials coordinator at Georgetown. “Aducanumab may help remove this amyloid from the brain and stop the plaques from forming.” Aducanumab is a recombinant human
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monoclonal antibody — which means that the drug is produced in a laboratory using the genetic material from a single type of human cell. Previous studies of aducanumab have focused on its safety, but have also found the drug helped slowed mental decline. Now researchers are looking at what dose is most effective in protecting memory.
What the study entails The beginning of the study includes a screening period of up to eight weeks, where patients will receive such tests as MRIs, PET scans and cognitive testing. Those who are found eligible for the study will be randomly divided into three equal groups. One group will get a low dose of aducanumab, while another will receive a higher dose, and the third group will be given a placebo — a substance with no active ingredient in it. Participants will then come to Georgetown University once every four weeks for 18 months to get the study drug by IV infusion. Each treatment lasts for about an hour. They will also receive follow-up phone calls approximately two weeks after each of the first eight doses.
After this part of the study, depending on outcome, participants may choose to continue receiving the drug every four weeks for an additional two years. During this phase, everyone will get the actual drug, and no one will be given a placebo.
Qualifying for the study Participants must have mild cognitive impairment and have a caregiver who can accompany them to all study visits. They must be between 50 and 85 years old. They cannot have any other medical or neurological condition that might be a contributing cause of memory loss. Participants also cannot have had a stroke or unexplained loss of consciousness in the past year. They cannot have a history of unstable angina, myocardial infarction or advanced chronic heart failure. Those in the study also cannot have impaired renal or liver function, HIV or take blood thinners. No monetary compensation is offered for participating, but all study visits and the drug are free of charge. For more information, or to volunteer to be screened, call Kelly Behan at (202) 6870413 or email keb53@georgetown.edu.
BEACON BITS
Apr. 26
MEMORY LOSS CLASS
Holy Cross Hospital presents a free seminar on age-related memory loss at St. Mark’s Episcopal Anglican Church, located at 12621 Old Columbia Pike, Silver Spring, Md., on Tuesday, April 26 from 11 a.m. to noon. Also learn about memory enhancing techniques and strategies. For more information or to register, visit www.holycrosshealth.org or call (301) 754-8800.
Georgetown Seeks Volunteers for New Immunotherapy Clinical Trial for Mild Cognitive Impairment Georgetown University is seeking volunteers to participate in a clinical trial of Aducanumab, a potential new treatment that, in an early phase study, has demonstrated promise in slowing mental decline in Alzheimer’s disease. The purpose is to evaluate the possible benefit and safety of the drug in patients with Mild Cognitive Impairment and early Alzheimer’s disease.
You may be eligible if you: • • • •
Are between 50-85 years of age Are in good general health Are fluent in English Have a study partner (friend or relative with whom you are in contact at least 10 hours/week and who can accompany you to study visits) • Are diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment
For more information, please contact:
Kelly Behan (202) 687-0413 keb53@georgetown.edu
WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — A P R I L 2 0 1 6
Say you saw it in the Beacon | Fitness & Health
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Not as frisky as you used to be? Try this There are plenty of reasons you might Even worse if she has to start thyroid not be feeling frisky enough for sex on any medicine and/or antidepressants. These given day. But when you find drugs have an effect on yourself using excuse after testosterone levels, as well as excuse, it could be a sign of on minerals that support thybigger hormonal problems, roid and mood. some of which I can help you If you’re having a problem, with today. here are some ways you can Over 40 percent of adult get your va-va-voom back: women experience low libido, DHEA. Improving levels of and I think that’s underre“the fountain of youth horported. mone” can help with libido by For men, it’s those “blue diincreasing testosterone levDEAR amonds” they want, meaning PHARMACIST els. A study confirms that Viagra. But they often don’t By Suzy Cohen DHEA supplementation in stop and think, “Does my girl peri- and post-menopausal want to do this too?” I mean, it women improved sexual funclooks so mutual in the commercials tion. doesn’t it? Ashwagandha. This thyroid-loving But ladies, what if you’re “not in the herb also increases DHEA, which goes on mood” when your man is revved up on Via- to amplify your testosterone levels. The gra? aphrodisiac effect usually requires a Ask yourself, do you take any medica- dosage somewhere between 100 to 500 tions? These can be a factor in crushing mg./day. Cupid. Drugs that treat hypertension and Yoga. But only in women 45 years and depression can squash libido in a women older. After 12 weeks of yoga, participants in about two weeks flat. noted significant improvement in the areas Of course, menopause can make sex un- of desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm, satcomfortable due to vaginal dryness. But isfaction and pain. ironically, even estrogen-containing medDark Chocolate. My friend literally ications (creams, pills and patches) that hides her chocolate in the freezer and are used to relieve menopause symptoms takes a few bites in between tucking her can interfere with desire. kids in bed. Chocolate stimulates more Estrogen medications — including birth dopamine, a.k.a. “the love chemical.” control pills, patches or shots in addition to Researchers who studied female libido those mentioned above — reduce other- concluded that women who consumed wise healthy levels of testosterone, the more dark chocolate enjoyed greater sexuhormone that ignites libido in both men al satisfaction than women who did not eat and women. chocolate. Mmm. As a pharmacist, I saw this time and Ladies, I will think nothing of it if I bump time again: A woman taking birth control into you in the chocolate aisle, wearing a pills for six months and then suddenly big hat, sunglasses and a black trench there’s no interest in sex. coat.
This information is opinion only. It is not intended to treat, cure or diagnose your condition. Consult with your doctor before using any new drug or supplement.
Suzy Cohen is a registered pharmacist and the author of The 24-Hour Pharmacist and Real Solutions from Head to Toe. To contact her, visit www.SuzyCohen.com.
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A P R I L 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N
Answers on exercise and glycemic index Q: I’m well over 65. Do I need to be doing strength-type training exercises? A: Muscle-strengthening exercise is important for all ages, and it’s definitely important for older adults. Strength training exercises play a big role in maintaining or rebuilding the muscle you need to carry out daily living activities and get around to participate in activities you enjoy. Loss of muscle is a common problem in older adults. A well-rounded exercise plan can help. Both aerobic exercise, like walking, and weight bearing exercise with resistance training can benefit bone density, help combat osteoporosis and improve balance. U.S. government physical activity guidelines emphasize that all adults, including those over age 65, should do muscle-
strengthening activities (such as lifting weights or using resistance bands) that involve all major muscle groups on two or more days a week. The six major muscle groups are chest, shoulders, arms, back, abdomen and legs. Of course, strength-building exercise must be appropriate for each individual, and older adults who have not done this type of exercise before, or who are recovering from reduced activity during an illness, need to be cautious not to overdo it, and careful not to choose types of exercise or movements that can lead to injury. Begin and progress with strength-training exercises at a level appropriate for your health and fitness. Allow one or two days between exercise sessions for any particular
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muscle group. [A personal trainer or other However, a low glycemic index diet does professional can help you tailor a program to not necessarily lead to long-term weight your needs and abilities.] loss. In controlled clinical triTo help you get started, exals, when calorie level is kept perts at the Centers for Disease the same, diets with an overall Control and Prevention (CDC) low glycemic index don’t lead and Tufts University have develto any greater weight loss, or oped a strength-training probody fat, than diets with an gram for adults called Growing overall high glycemic index. Stronger. You can follow this To lose weight, start by lookprogram on the interactive webing for nutrient rich food swaps site (it includes animations for to reduce your overall calories. how to do the exercises) or There are foods low in calories download or order a booklet at NUTRITION and glycemic index — like leafy WISE http://growingstronger.nutr green vegetables and dry By Karen Collins, ition.tufts.edu/index.html. beans — that are nutrient-rich For people of any age who MS, RD, CDM and help create an overall have some sort of orthopedic healthy diet that can promote or heart-related health issue, it’s important weight loss. But just because a food has a to discuss what kinds of strength-training low glycemic index doesn’t mean it’s a you should do with your physician before healthful or low calorie food. you start. If you want to experiment and see Q: What is a low glycemic index diet, whether paying attention to foods’ glycemic and does it help for weight loss? index makes a difference for you, add that A: A food’s glycemic index (GI) refers strategy to the more important steps of to how it affects blood sugars shortly after choosing more low calorie foods and taking it is eaten. smaller portions of high calorie foods. The amount and type of carbohydrate in The American Institute for Cancer Refood, along with its fiber and fat, affect how search offers a Nutrition Hotline, 1-800quickly the food’s carbohydrates are ab- 843-8114, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday sorbed, which affects blood sugar. Fiber through Friday. This free service allows you and fat slow down carbohydrate absorption. to ask questions about diet, nutrition and Foods that raise blood sugars more tend cancer. A registered dietitian will return to be digested more quickly, and are said to your call, usually within three business days. have a high GI. An overall diet with more Courtesy of the American Institute for foods lower in glycemic index can lead to Cancer Research. Questions for this column lower levels of insulin, a hormone that may be sent to “Nutrition Wise,” 1759 R St. helps control blood sugar and also pro- NW, Washington, DC 20009. Collins cannot motes storage of extra calories in body fat. respond to questions personally.
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WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — A P R I L 2 0 1 6
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Quinoa crusted salmon with rosemary honey This recipe won second place in the 2015 Healthy Appetizer Contest sponsored by the American Institute for Cancer Research. It was developed by Jenna Kraus of Barry Goldwater High School, in Phoenix, Ariz. This makes for a stunning presentation and a delicious and unique way to introduce people to fiber-rich quinoa. While the recipe is designed for 12 small appetizer portions, it can be served as a main course for 3 or 4 persons.
Quinoa Crusted Salmon 1/2 cup uncooked white quinoa (wellrinsed) 1/4 cup honey 1 large sprig fresh rosemary, leaves removed and coarsely chopped 2 oranges, divided 2 tsp. balsamic vinegar 2 Tbsp. plus 2 tsp. extra virgin olive oil, divided Freshly ground pepper and salt, to taste 4 oz. arugula or other salad greens 1 1/2 lb. skinned salmon fillet
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Arrange baking rack in middle of oven. In small pot, cook rinsed quinoa according to package directions. Spread cooked quinoa on cookie sheet lined with paper towels to absorb excess liquid. Place dry cooked quinoa in shallow dish and fluff with fork. In small pot, bring honey to simmer, add rosemary, turn off heat and cover pan. Zest and juice 1/2 orange. In small bowl mix together juice from orange and vinegar. Whisk in 2 tablespoons oil and orange zest. Season to taste with pepper and salt. Cut salmon fillet into twelve equal pieces (3 or 4 for dinner servings) and brush each piece with rosemary honey. Sprinkle cooked quinoa over top of salmon pieces and press down into salmon. In shallow baking pan, spread remaining oil. Place salmon pieces, quinoa side up, on oiled pan. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until light pink throughout. To brown quinoa crust, set under broiler for 1-2 minutes.. While fish bakes, peel remaining or-
anges and trim off white pith. Separate orange segments and cut into 1/2-inch pieces. Toss greens with vinaigrette and orange pieces. Arrange salad on individual serving plates and place salmon on top. Salmon may also be served over salad on a platter,
family style. Per appetizer-sized serving: 180 calories, 8 g. total fat, (1g. saturated fat),13 g. carbohydrate, 13 g. protein, 1 g. dietary fiber, 31 mg. sodium. Courtesy of the American Institute for Cancer Research.
BEACON BITS
Apr. 16
HEARING HEALTH FAIR
The Northern Virginia Celebrate Communication event will take place on Saturday, April 16 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Ernst Community Cultural Center at Northern VA Community College, 8333 Little River Turnpike, Annandale, Va. This information fair offers resources, exhibits and hearing assistive technologies for those with hearing loss. For more information, visit www.nvrc.org.
BEACON BITS
Apr. 18
HEALTHY AGING FORUM A Healthy Aging Forum will take place on Monday, April 18, from
10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., at Washington Hebrew Congregation, 3935 Macomb St. NW. Co-presented by Northwest Neighbors Village, the forum will feature eight informational and interactive workshops featuring experts on a variety of topics regarding healthy aging. Register in advance to ensure workshop preference. An $18 fee includes the entire program, with lunch and coffee breaks. Register at www.nwnv.org or call (202) 777-3435 for more info.
Ongoing
MOCO LIBRARY E-BOOKS Montgomery County Public Libraries offers free e-books that can be checked out just like regular library books. They can be read
on a computer, laptop or tablet, and readers can borrow up to six items at a time. There are never fines because the titles return themselves. Members must have a library card and PIN. Don’t have an e-reader? Borrow one from the Gaithersburg, Long Branch or Olney branch libraries. For more information, visit http://montgomerycountymd.libguides.com/elibrary or call (240) 777-0001.
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Fitness & Health | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com
A P R I L 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N
Bow out of adult children’s squabbles Dear Solutions: I have a good relationship with both my son and daughter-in-law. Lately, they’re each calling me to complain about the other and ask my advice. I answer each one, but I feel like a juggler trying to keep a bunch of balls in the air. I don’t want to antagonize
either one. What should I do? — J.J. Dear J.J.: Juggler beware! Bow out — or you’ll end up dropping all the balls and being booed off center stage. Sounds like they are using you to gloss over and avoid dealing with some deeper basic conflicts and issues in the marriage.
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If you act as a general in this war, you’ll guilty? Aside from being a homemaker soon become the target. Move into a neu- (and wife and mother), I always tral zone and insist, sweetly worked at home on crebut firmly, that this couple go ative design projects. for marital counseling with a Now I find myself sleepprofessional. ing later than ever and inThen, no matter what hapvolved only in various pens, you can be a friend to games and social activiboth rather than inevitably beties. I have no desire to decoming the enemy of one. sign anything, even though Dear Solutions: it used to be a love of When I was growing up, mine. we always called the adults So I feel worthless, and SOLUTIONS in our neighborhood “Mr. guilty about not doing anyBy Helen Oxenberg, and Mrs.” Now, I’m not only thing worthwhile. How can MSW, ACSW an adult but a senior, and I I get myself motivated to find that my friends’ granddesign things again, or how children who are visiting her call me by can I get rid of these feelings? my first name, and I don’t like it. I think — Emily it’s bad manners. Dear Emily: Also, I would like my grandchildren Try one more design project. Design a to call my friends “Mr.” and “Mrs.” guilt-free you. But my friends seem to want to be How? Start to think of yourself differentcalled by their first names! What can ly. Are you just a design project creator, or we do about this, if anything? are you a whole person aside from that? Is — Wondering it only your work that makes you worthDear Wondering: while, or are you a good, kind human being Today it’s called address unknown, even if you’re not working at a career? since nobody’s sure how to address anySome day you may want to start your caone anymore. reer again. Meanwhile allow yourself to There is a difference between adult and enjoy your activities, and if you feel that child, experience and inexperience, etc., you must do something more, try volunand you’re entitled to recognize this by teering a little time somewhere that will asking your friends’ grandchildren to make others feel good. please call you “Mrs.,” since you feel more In the past, before so many women had comfortable with that. careers, it was the men who felt a little lost But you can’t control other people or tell when they retired. Now women have them what they should want. Perhaps your caught up, and guilt, lost status and feelolder friends who insist that children call ings of low self esteem at retirement have them by their first name are really afraid to become an equal opportunity condition. grow older. They want to feel like “one of Relax. Let go. Enjoy. the kids.” © Helen Oxenberg, 2016. Questions to be In any event, the manner in which you considered for this column may be sent to: teach manners to your grandchildren is up The Beacon, P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, to you. MD 20915. You may also email the author Dear Solutions: at helox72@comcast.net. To inquire about I’m now retired, so why do I feel so reprint rights, call (609) 655-3684.
BEACON BITS
Ongoing
COMPUTER DOCTOR WILL SEE YOU NOW
The Margaret Schweinhaut Senior Center is home to the Computer Doctor, a program where volunteers help members with their personal computers or devices at the center for free. The “doctor” is in on the second Tuesday and Thursday of each month from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Preregistration is required. For more information, call the center at (240) 777-8085.
Ongoing
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ONE-ON-ONE TECH TRAINING
Arlington County Public Library offers free one-on-one tech training by appointment in half hour sessions. Tech assistants can help with uncooperative software, putting together a social media presence, and downloading eBooks and eAudiobooks. Bring your laptop, tablet or other device or have your appointment at a library public computer. For more information or to register, visit http://library.arlingtonva.us/2014/09/03/byappointment-one-on-one-tech-help.
May 2
ACTIVE AGING EXPO
The City of Gaithersburg Active Aging Expo celebrates the community’s older adults and includes massages, fitness demonstrations, manicures, screenings, facials, educational talks and more. It will take place on Monday, May 2 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Activity Center at Bohrer Park, located at 506 S. Frederick Ave., Gaithersburg, Md. Admission is free, including a simple lunch. For more information, call (301) 258-6380.
WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — A P R I L 2 0 1 6
Celebrating 40 Years
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DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA OFFICE ON AGING
Spotlight On Aging VOLUME XXVII, ISSUE 4
A newsletter for D.C. Seniors
ACTING EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR'S MESSAGE By Laura Newland Acting Executive Director, D.C. Office on Aging Spring is my favorite season. I love seeing spring stretch out and breathe warm air and life into dormant things. We’re now in our fourth month of operating Mayor Bowser’s Safe at Home program — a program that is perfect for spring, as we work with older District residents and people with disabilities to bring new life into their homes with adaptations that allow them to live safely and comfortably. In Mayor Bowser’s State of the District Address in March, she reiterated her commitment to Safe at Home and to funding housing initiatives during her administration. She mentioned the work that was completed through Safe at Home for Mr. Glee, a long-time homeowner. Mr. Glee was a caregiver for his wife of many years before she passed away. As a caregiver, he installed many modifications to meet his wife’s needs. When she passed away, the modifications were a constant reminder of his loss. So he took them out. Now several years later, he’s had multiple surgeries and has limited mobility. He was starting to think that he might have to move out of his three-story home because he’s not able to get around like he used to. Then he heard about Safe at Home. He called, and within a short period of time, an occupational therapist worked with a contractor to install adaptations in Mr. Glee’s home. Mr. Glee now says that he’ll be able to stay in his home forever. After retiring from a career of manual labor, a 69-year-old suffers from arthritis that causes significant pain and severely limits her mobility. She lives by herself in her two-story
home. Her only bathroom is on the second floor. To reduce her trips to the bathroom, she did not take all of her medications as prescribed. Nineteen days after a Safe at Home occupational therapist came to her home and recommended adaptations, a contractor installed a stairlift and shower adaptations that allow her to comfortably live in her home and become medication compliant! Thanks to a stairlift installed by Safe at Home, a 92-year-old woman was able to sleep in her own bedroom for the first time in years. She had spent the past several years sleeping in a recliner every night because she was unable to climb her stairs to her bed. She is also able to take a full shower thanks to Safe at Home’s installation of bathroom modifications that allowed her to get to her second floor bathroom and safely shower there. She can now safely live in her home for as long as she chooses. For us at DCOA, that’s the important thing — that we provide services and supports that allow people to have real choices. Because that’s what we all want. We all want the ability to choose where we live and how. None of us should be forced into decisions that we’re uncomfortable with because we feel like we have no other choice. Spring is also a time for cleaning and resetting. As we move forward together in 2016, DCOA’s got a lot of housekeeping to catch up on, but we’re excited about what we’re going to achieve together. We’re rethinking the way we’re connecting with you in the community, so look for me and my staff as we stop by your neighborhood this spring!
April 2016
Are you a D.C. resident age 60 or older and interested in representing your peers as Ms. Senior D.C. 2016? Are you actively involved in your community?
Consider becoming a contestant in the Ms. Senior D.C. Pageant 2016! Contestants are judged on: • their personal interview; • their philosophy of life; • their talent presentation; and • their evening gown presentation. The winner will represent the District and compete in the Ms. Senior America Pageant in October. For more information on how to sign up, please visit www.dcoa.dc.gov, call DCOA at 202-724-5622, or email darlene.nowlin@dc.gov.
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A P R I L 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N
D.C. OFFICE
ON
SAVE THE DATE!
AGING NEWSLETTER
DCOA Executive Director Conducts Senior Town Halls DCOA has been conducting a series of town hall meetings to listen to seniors and receive feedback on DCOA programming and services. Town Halls were held at each of the senior wellness centers and various program sites in the community. Acting Executive Director Laura Newland will continue to make visits in the community over the next weeks. For more information on future town hall meetings, visit www.dcoa.dc.gov or call 202-724-5626.
We are making plans for the Mayor’s Fifth Annual Senior Symposium Thursday, August 4, 2016 Stay tuned for more information!
Renters 101 Training The D.C. Office of the Tenant Advo-
cate (OTA) will present Renters 101 training over the next several months. Renters 101 will provide District residents with an overview of their rights and responsibilities. Many topics will be covered including leases, rent increases, rent control, evictions, housing code problems and security deposits This is an excellent opportunity for you to learn about tenant rights and your rent. The training can also assist those of you who work with tenants. Trainings will be held in the OTA office, located in Suite 300N of the Reeves Center, 2000 14th St. NW. Requests for accommodations must be submitted at least five days before the date of the training. For questions, accommodation requests, and to reserve a space, call OTA at 202-719-6560 or email delores.anderson@dc.gov.
Training dates and times: Wednesday, April 20, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. Saturday, April 30, noon – 2 p.m. Wednesday, May 18, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. Saturday, May 20, noon – 2 p.m. Wednesday, June 15, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. Saturday, June 25, noon – 2 p.m.
Spotlight On Aging continues on page 27, following the Housing Options Magazine section at the right Please pull out and keep the Housing Options section. You may also pull out and keep Spotlight on Aging.
WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — A P R I L 2 0 1 6
SPECIAL PULL-OUT SECTION
Say you saw it in the Beacon
B-1
B-2
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A P R I L 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N
Communities feature fur, fins and feathers By Rebekah Sewell When Judy Fredenburgh moved here from N. Carolina in 2014 to be closer to her son and his family, she knew she couldn’t leave Mini behind. Mini is the long-haired, 3-pound, blonde Chihauhau with whom she found solace when her husband passed away eight years ago. “When I got her, it made all the difference in the world,” Fredenburgh said. So she searched online for local communities that accepted pets and decided on Arbor Terrace of Herndon in Northern Virginia. Fredenburgh has spent the last year and a half in her new community, and says Mini likes it as much as she does. “She’s become like the mascot,” Fredenburgh laughed. The beneficial relationship between
older adults and animals is so well established that more and more senior residences — from independent apartments to CCRCs to nursing homes — have instituted some kind of pet program. “For our residents who love animals, it’s an important part of their day-to-day life. Being able to continue to nurture and care for a pet is a meaningful experience,” said Alissa Schroeder, senior living counselor at Arbor Terrace, an independent living community. “Pets are part of the family.” To make owning a pet easier, each hall features a “Sanitation Station,” where residents can drop off bags of their pets’ business for the staff to dispose of. The front desk keeps treats on hand for their residents’ four-legged friends.
HERE’S TO A SWEET FRIENDSHIP we’re turning 30, and you get the gift
They also allow pets at activities. “Mini comes with me to listen to music and to wine tastings,” Fredenburgh said. She sits out the daytrips, though. In addition to what Mini does for Fredenburgh, she sees what her Chihauhau’s presence has done for other residents. “When people pet her and reach for her, I swear their blood pressure goes down. The smiles on their faces...everybody just loves her,” she said.
Physical and emotional benefits According to the American Animal Hospital Association, meeting, walking, playing and cleaning up after a pet gives pet owners a sense of purpose and keeps them active. Talking to or cuddling a pet has also been shown to ease chronic pain from arthritis and migraines, and to increase brain activity, which helps prevent or ease the effects of depression. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has even reported that pet companionship can help lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels and encourage healthier heart rates. Louise Pearson moved with Tiger, her sun parakeet, to Friendship Terrace in Washington, D.C. last year. She says her orange, yellow and green feathered friend made the transition to the independent liv-
ing community easier. Before moving, she had lived in an apartment for 30 years, 28 of them with her parrot. “They’re supposed to live to about 35,” she explained. He’s become an integral part of her life, and lives primarily outside his cage in the apartment. Tiger wakes her up every morning. She also takes him out and allows friends and other residents to spend time with him. “The ladies loves him. They talk to him, and he talks back,” she laughed. He has also given her a sense of purpose, since he continuously needs her love and attention. “We need that extra feeling of caring about something,” she said. Jane Mabry has a similarly close relationship with her pet, a 9-year-old cat named Sally. They moved to Homecrest House, an independent living community in Silver Spring, Md., last year. Like Fredenburgh, Mabry found her new home online, after searching for pet-friendly communities. Homecrest House appreciates the positives of pet owning for their residents. We “understand the ‘bond-ship’ between the owners,” said Maria Karavangelos, marketing development director. “We notice it offers companionship, and comforts the See PETS, page B-4
Tasteful &Timeless R ETIR EMENT LI V ING
Beautiful, maintenance-free apartment homes are available now at Ashby Ponds, Greenspring, and Riderwood, the area’s most popular continuing care retirement communities. With dozens of floor plans to choose from, you’re sure to find a home design to match your style and budget!
Every apartment home has easy, indoor access to a clubhouse full of amenities and services:
Only one apartment left at the special savings! Call today to reserve your private tour. Offer ends April 30, 2016
• All-season pool and hot tub • Fitness Center • On-site medical center, staffed by full-time doctors • Multiple restaurants • And more!
CALL 540-412-3640 TODAY TO LEARN MORE AND SCHEDULE A PERSONAL TOUR
Call 1-800-206-1817 for your free brochure or to schedule a personal tour of the community nearest you!
I N D E P E N D E NT LI V I NG AS S I STE D LI V I NG 12100 C H A NC E LLO R ’ S V I LLAG E LA NE FR E D E R I C KS B U R G, VA 22407 WWW.S E N I O R LI FESTYLE.COM
11389465
1-800-206-1817 | EricksonLiving.com
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Say you saw it in the Beacon | Housing and Homecare
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Adapt your home to be livable for years By William Hirsch As people age, many choose to stay in their current homes near friends, family, places of worship and other places that have become integral parts of their lives. This is part of a growing trend toward “aging in place.” The term applies to those who want to live as they have in their current home for as long as possible. As we age, our mobility and capabilities change. Steps can become a challenge. Our balance, vision, hearing and mental processes can deteriorate. We lose strength. Can your current home accommodate your physical changes? Normal everyday things that once seemed benign might become obstacles and hazards. The good news is that a number of relatively simple modifications to your home can make it more pleasant and safe to live in for many more years to come. You may not know what your future challenges might be. But we do know that most people will experience a decrease in mobility. Here are a few things you can do to make your house easier to live in should you become less mobile. Plan for one-floor living. Stairs will be your biggest obstacle. If your bedroom is upstairs now, take a look at your plan and see if there is a way to alter the use of the rooms to let you live on the
first floor and leave the upstairs for guests. This might require adding a bedroom and bathroom suite onto the first floor. Or you might be able to convert a seldom-used formal living room into a bedroom. Make other floors accessible. If one-floor living is not feasible, look for ways to add an elevator or stair lift. Is there a closet that can convert to an elevator? Less costly than building an additional bedroom suite, an elevator can be deferred and installed quickly if the need arises. The point is to look into the possibility and plan for one now. Make the entry accessible. You need at least one entry door with no step. This entrance should be covered to shelter it from snow and rain. Often this is the door into the house from the garage. If you have a few steps up to the house now, a ramp can be built. Eliminate tripping hazards. Be sure to remove any raised thresholds at interior doors or uneven transitions between rooms. These small level changes can be particularly hazardous because they are easily overlooked and create tripping hazards. Make sure your doorways are wide enough. A wheelchair may be in your future, even if it is only temporary while recovering from an injury. You’ll want to be able to
pass through your doorways. There are some misconceptions about the required width for access. The Americans with Disabilities Act, known as the ADA, mandates a clear opening width of 32”. That would require a 36” door, since a door opened to 90 degrees would protrude into the opening and reduce the clear width by about two inches. You probably have only one door that wide in your house — your front door. Breaking through walls to widen doors is often not practical. Fortunately, your home does not have to comply with the ADA requirements like public buildings do. Typical wheelchairs are only 24” to 27” wide. The 32” requirement is meant to accommodate all wheel-
chairs, even extra-wide ones. So unless you are a very large person, there is no need to have doors that wide. I recommend you make sure your doors are at least 30” wide (though 32” is even better). If the opening is still too narrow, you can rehang the door with offset hinges to allow it to swing further out of the way. Maneuvering space is essential. The ADA requires a five-foot diameter clear floor space in all rooms, particularly bathrooms, of public buildings. The swing of a door cannot intrude into that space. The purpose of this clear area is so that, should a person fall to the floor and not be able to get up, another person could enter See AGING IN PLACE, page B-5
Spring Open House April 23rd, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., and April 24, 12 - 4 p.m. Spring over to Waltonwood to preview floor plans and learn more about the carefree lifestyle and upscale services and amenities we offer.
Receive a free springtime accessory at the event! Quantities limited.
RSVP by April 20th (571) 982-6318
A SHBURN
Independent Living, Assisted Living and Memory Care 4 4141 Russ e l l B r a n ch P k w y. , A s h b u r n , VA 2 0147
www.facebook.com/waltonwoodseniorliving
www.Waltonwood.com
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Affordable Senior Communities Discover how great senior living is at one of our affordable apartment communities. Many of our communities feature 24-hour emergency maintenance, full activities programs, spacious floor plans, affordable rents, caring and dedicated staff, and much more. We are conveniently located near shopping, including grocery stores and pharmacies. Let us help you live life to the fullest. Call or visit our web site to view these communities:
600 North Madison Street, Arlington, VA 22203
7010 Schoonmaker Court Alexandria, VA 22310
703-538-6000
703-719-7268
Rent based on income
From $876
703-904-9444 From $930
7837 Richmond Highway Alexandria, VA 22306
703-780-9072 From $966
Wingler House Apartments 20900 Runny Meade Terrace Ashburn, VA 20147
703-858-9507 From $921
5999 Emerson Street Bladensburg, MD 20710
301-779-6196 Rent based on income
Mrs. Philippines Home for Seniors, Inc. 18889 Waring Station Road Germantown, MD 20874
Pets From page B-2 seniors.” Since Mabry still works part-time as a teaching assistant, Sally’s independent personality works well for their relationship. The feline finds plenty of ways to keep herself occupied during the day, though “she wishes the apartment were bigger,” Mabry joked. Mabry has always seen a positive connection between pets and their owners, owning many throughout the years. “We always had a cat, but my kids are now dog people,” she said. “We also had birds, ducks and rabbits.” She took in Sally after she found her abandoned in the wild, and the two keep each other company, especially when things are quiet. “Even though I am out a lot, once you shut your door, it can be lonely. All older people would benefit from having a pet, especially if they’re alone,” Mabry said.
Community-owned pets
Lockwood House
873 Grace Street Herndon, VA 20170
A P R I L 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N
6428 Bock Street Oxon Hill, MD 20745
301-540-1162
301-567-9537
From $1,015 for 2 bedroom
Rent based on income
5101 River Road, Suite 101 • Bethesda, MD 20816
301-941-8040 www.qpmgmt.com Professionally managed by Quantum Real Estate Management LLC T/A Quantum Property Management
Communities whose residents may not be able to take care of their own pets are beginning to incorporate in-house pets into their social programs. Birmingham Green, an assisted living community in Manassas, Va., owns two bird cages featuring society finches and Gouldian finches (also known as rainbow finches). The birds are available for observation,
and “the residents love them,” said assistant administrator Hwan Yi. Gouldian finches are especially vibrant and colorful. The residents are also able to keep pets privately in their assisted living apartments, something not that common among such communities. “Nursing home and assisted living residents are used to being cared for by others, but they also want to care for something,” explained Yi. “Pets are the best entity to meet that need.” Sunrise Senior Living Communities have implemented a “Pets in Residence” program. Each community features a community-owned cat and dog to keep the residents company. The staff takes care of the pets for the most part. They also have a pet therapy program that visits the community twice a month. Pearson says that having Tiger the parrot around gives her a “feeling that somebody cares.” He keeps her company during the day and displays an almost-human personality, even becoming jealous when she spends too much time with friends. “He will try to bite them,” she laughed. For many, pets offer loyalty, unconditional love and companionship. They also offer pvrotection against isolation and provide more opportunities for socialization. They are “24-hour companions,” said Yi. If you have a pet, or love pets, be sure to ask about the pet policy of any senior living communities you are considering moving to.
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Aging in place From page B-3 the room to help. If the room is too small, the fallen person could block the door from being pushed in and opened. The solution is to rehang your door so it swings out. Then no matter where the fallen person is, a rescuer could open the door and get in. Another option is to simply remove the door altogether. Install grab bars and additional railings. With mobility problems, things we do every day — like getting in and out of showers, on and off toilets, and even walking down a hallway — can become difficult. Installing good, solidly anchored grab bars in showers, tubs, at toilets, and even along hallways can give security to those who are less stable. Grab bars encourage people to stay ambulatory and not require a wheelchair. The more we all walk, even slowly, the healthier we remain. Install a shower seat and a hand-held showerhead. Showering while seated is the most convenient and safe way to bathe with diminished mobility and balance. This seat does not have to be built in. A heavy teak stool can work. Just get one that is designed to not tip easily. A shower seat, coupled with good grab bars, will make it easier to get in and out of the shower, even if you are transferring
from a wheelchair. Change door knobs to lever handles. Lever door handles have been customary in Europe for centuries. But in America, we have traditionally used knobs. These can look great, but once your hands weaken and become arthritic, door knobs become barriers. Consider swapping knobs for levers that you can use by leaning an elbow on them. You’ll find them to be easier to use with wet hands, too. This change to levers applies to faucets, too. Other changes that can make aging in place easier: Remove floor surfaces that could be slippery. Improve lighting in the house. Install a toilet riser seat. Install slide-out shelves in cabinets. Change cabinet knobs to D-shaped handles. Change to LED lights for much longer bulb life and lower energy costs. Install smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms with a siren and a flashing light. Install battery-operated emergency lighting in hallways. Do things to reduce required home maintenance. And of course, install an emergency call system, especially if you live alone. If you do a little planning and make a few modifications, your house can be your home for a long time. William Hirsch, an architect, is the author of Designing Your Perfect House. Learn more at www.designingyourperfecthouse.com and www.about-home-design.com.
Say you saw it in the Beacon | Housing and Homecare
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ASSISTED LIVING & MEMORY CARE
Tall Oaks Assisted Living 703-834-9800 12052 N. Shore Drive Reston, VA 20190 TallOaksAL.com
Tall Oaks Assisted Living has proudly served Reston and the Metropolitan DC area since 1991 by providing quality Assisted Living and Memory Care to seniors. From superb and delicious dining to engaging activity programming and 24-hour licensed nursing care, our goal is to exceed expectations in every aspect of community life. The friendliness and longevity of our leadership team gives families peace of mind knowing that their loved ones’ care is in experienced hands. Call Today to schedule your personal tour and see for yourself why Tall Oaks has been Rising Above the Ordinary since 1991. CONTINUING CARE RETIREMENT COMMUNITY
Knollwood 202-541-0149 or 1-800-541-4255 6200 Oregon Avenue NW Washington, DC 20015 www.armydistaff.org Knollwood is a military continuing care retirement community featuring modern independent living apartments ranging in size from 500 to 2700 sq.ft., assisted living apartments, skilled nursing and memory care. Situated on a 16-acre campus in Rock Creek Park, Knollwood is convenient to all D.C. has to offer. Outings to events and cultural venues, such as the Kennedy Center and National Mall, frequent daily trips to WRNMMC, and a committed activity staff enrich the lives of our residents. Providing service for over 50 years, Knollwood was built on the cornerstones of personal attention, superior care and camaraderie, values that have withstood the test of time. Call today to ask about our new Independent Living Plus option!
INDEPENDENT LIVING COMMUNITY
The Bonifant at Silver Spring 844-243-0369 929 Bonifant Street Silver Spring, MD 20910 TheBonifant.com Silver Spring’s newest community for seniors aged 62 or better opens in April next door to the new library on Fenton Street. A few studio & one-bedroom apartments are still available, with rents starting from $990. Apartments in the pet-friendly, affordable community include washer & dryer, wide plank flooring, & full kitchens. Residents will enjoy amenities including an outdoor terrace and fitness center. The Bonifant’s downtown location provides perfect proximity to restaurants, shopping, & entertainment. Several public transportation options are within walking distance, & The Bonifant has bike storage for its residents. Apply today to live at The Bonifant at Silver Spring – Affordable City Living for Active Seniors.
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INDEPENDENT & PERSONAL CARE COMMUNITIES
B’nai B’rith Homecrest House 301-244-3579 14508 Homecrest Road Silver Spring, MD 20906 www.homecresthouse.org Homecrest House is a non-profit, affordable, subsidized community offering two options: Independent & Personal Care Services. PERSONAL CARE offers: assistance with bathing, daily meals, weekly housekeeping & laundry services with optional medication administration. Homecrest is nestled on 10 beautiful acres & neighbors with Leisure World. Residents may qualify approximately 30% of their adjusted income for rent & may qualify for personal care subsidies. Homecrest offers a full array of amenities, activities & scheduled weekday van service. Call Maria at 301-244-3579 for a personalized tour or visit us at www.homecresthouse.org.
ASSISTED LIVING & MEMORY CARE
Brooke Grove Retirement Village 301-260-2320 18100 Slade School Road Sandy Spring, MD 20860 www.bfg.org This community hums with warmhearted camaraderie and a zest for life shared by residents and staff alike. Experience all that makes assisted living at Brooke Grove extraordinary. Cozy, homelike dwellings with easy access to beautiful courtyards and walking paths. Caring staff trained in using memory support techniques, building independence and lifting self-esteem. Innovative LIFE® Enrichment Programming with meaningful activities and off-site adventures. Visit us to see why Brooke Grove Retirement Village is one of the most sought-after continuing care retirement communities in the state. Living here is simply different … because what surrounds you really matters.
INDEPENDENT LIVING COMMUNITY
Greenspring 1-800-788-0811 7410 Spring Village Drive Springfield, VA 22150 EricksonLiving.com Situated in beautiful Springfield, Greenspring is the perfect place to enjoy an active lifestyle now, with added peace of mind for the future. Everything you need is right on campus, including continuing care services, should your health needs ever change. Greenspring is supported by the nation’s largest integrated health and wellness system for seniors. Nestled on 58 acres and bordered on three sides by wooded parkland, Greenspring is home to more than 2,000 residents. A refundable deposit guarantees there is no financial risk and the monthly service package includes utilities, maintenance, and flexible dining plans you can use in any of the four on-site restaurants. On-site amenities include restaurants; stores; medical center with full time physicians; an all-season swimming pool; a fitness center with full-time trainers; barber shop and hair salon; bank; and a full-time, interfaith pastoral staff.
A P R I L 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N
Housing Notes By Barbara Ruben and Rebekah Sewell
New communities in Northern Virginia Atlanta-based Thrive Senior Living is opening three new assisted living communities in Prince William County, Va. The first community, Tribute at Heritage Village, is in Gainesville, Va. and will open this spring. The second community, Tribute at the Glen, will open this fall in Woodbridge, Va. The third community, Tribute at One Loudoun, is being built in Ashburn, Va., and expected to open in March 2017. All three communities have a similar resort-like design and features. Each offers independent and assisted living as well as memory care, which is provided in two distinct “neighborhoods.” Each community is designed to be walkable, and features a spa, salon, movie theater, rooftop terrace, and wellness center with senior-friendly fitness equipment. Residents also have access to a full-service restaurant, a 24-hour bistro for gourmet snacks, and multiple locations for coffee and other beverages. Transportation is available for off-site visits. Thrive’s communities utilize “specialized technology” to engage “each resident at their level of cognitive ability.” They also use motion monitors and activity trackers to help staff note any anomalies or worrisome trends. Other technologies include wireless call systems, RFID cards (instead of keys) to access rooms, senior-friendly computers and WiFi. Monthly pricing includes utilities, main-
Our central courtyard is a favorite space for residents, especially on sunny days!
tenance, three meals a day, snacks and drinks, housekeeping and laundry, transportation, medication supervision, assistance with dressing, grooming and bathing, and 24-hour staff supervision. Tribute at Heritage Village is currently taking reservations. For more information on any of the communities, visit http:// tributeseniorliving.com. To reach Tribute at Heritage Village, call (703) 468-1475; for Tribute at the Glen, call (571) 402-6244; for Tribute at One Loudoun, call (571) 2528292.
Residence in Glover Park to open soon The new Glover Park senior living community will open for independent living residents in April and will take assisted living residents soon after. Glover Park, located in the neighborhood of the same name in Northwest Washington, will have room for 16 residents. Each floor consists of a 3-bedroom, 2-bath apartment that has a kitchen and living room. Residents can rent a single room and share the common spaces, or they can rent the entire apartment. Glover Park bills itself as a “boutique senior living community” with a “concierge approach.” They will help arrange onsite services, such as mobile dental and visiting physicians, massage therapists, audiologists, hair stylists and other professionals. There are several shops, recreation/fitness centers and beauty salons within a short walking distance. To learn more, call (202) 774-8553 or see www.gloverparkseniors.com.
See HOUSING NOTES, page B-8
Make Spring va le Your Favorite Season
Embrace your next season of life at Springvale Terrace. Residential, Enhanced, and Assisted Living services are offered to meet your unique healthcare needs. A friendly team is here to support your goals for an active lifestyle with exercise classes, social events, and dining. Affordable monthly rates and a convenient location make Springvale Terrace an ideal choice.
Call 301-587-0190 (TRS 711) today.
8505 Springvale Road • Silver Spring, MD 20910 1-800-552-7724 MD RELAY SERVICE • SpringvaleTerrace.com
WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — A P R I L 2 0 1 6
Say you saw it in the Beacon | Housing and Homecare
YEARS SERVING OUR RESIDENTS!
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INDEPENDENT LIVING COMMUNITY
Seabury at FRIENDSHIP TERRACE 202-244-7400 4201 Butterworth Place NW Washington, DC 20016 www.friendshipterrace.org Active, affordable senior living close to stores, restaurants, transportation and entertainment can be found at Seabury at Friendship Terrace! Located in a quiet, tree-lined northwest Washington neighborhood, Friendship Terrace is just two blocks from the Tenleytown Metro station. The community offers affordable senior living with subsidy assistance to those who are eligible, as well as exciting on-site events including performances, lectures, holiday observances, socials, and more. A rooftop deck, greenhouse, library, lounges, and a dining room overlooking an outdoor courtyard are highlights of the community. If needed, additional onsite care can be arranged. Call for your tour today!
HOME FURNISHINGS
Dan Kugler’s Design Center 301-770-3090 11910 Parklawn Dr., Ste J Rockville, MD 20852 http://www.dankuglersdesign.com/ I started my company 31 years ago out of my Mother’s home. We specialize in window treatments, shades, shutters, blinds and draperies, wall-to-wall carpeting and area rugs. We have recently added beautiful, recliner/lift chairs to our offerings. We are also the area’s only authorized Hunter Douglas Service Center. We have always focused on customer satisfaction. I have a wonderful staff that is extremely knowledgeable and very professional. I couldn’t have done this without my family and my most valued employee and best friend, my lovely wife. We are getting ready to celebrate our 25th Anniversary. Please come visit our beautiful store in Rockville, Md. or call for more information.
CONTINUING CARE RETIREMENT COMMUNITY
Ashby Ponds 1-800-564-0155 21170 Ashby Ponds Boulevard Ashburn, VA 20147 EricksonLiving.com Ashby Ponds in Ashburn offers maintenance-free retirement living combined with a vibrant lifestyle--all in a beautiful, private and gated community. Without the worries of a house and yard, you can spend more time pursuing your passions. Travel, volunteer, take a college class and explore some of Ashby Ponds many clubs and interest groups. Campus restaurants offer a variety of delicious dining options, while security offers protection and peace of mind. Enjoy the stability of predictable monthly expenses and look forward to a healthy future with our health care and wellness services. Whatever your passions in life, you’ll find the freedom and opportunity to follow them at Ashby Ponds. Continuing Care at Ashby Ponds is open and features assisted living, nursing care, post-acute rehabilitation, and memory care.
A P R I L 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N
Housing notes From page B-6
Waltonwood to open first area community Waltonwood Ashburn, a multi-level care community, will open in early 2017. It is the 11th Waltonwood senior community, and is being developed by Singh Development, which also builds luxury apartments, single-family homes and commercial properties. Waltonwood Ashburn will offer independent and assisted living, along with memory care. The community will include a monitored entry system, multipurpose room with home theater, café, library, fitness room, game room, salon, massage therapy and therapy pool. Outdoor spaces include courtyards with ponds and gazebos, and a walking trail. A guest suite will be available. For more information, see http://bit.ly/ waltonwood or call (571) 982-6318. An open house event will take place April 23 and 24.
Leaving a hospital or rehab setting? The Affordable Care Act instituted a mix of incentives and penalties to encourage both hospitals and skilled nursing and rehabilitation centers to avoid patient readmissions within 48 hours of discharge — a revolving door that was becoming a common and expensive problem. The intention was to encourage better healthcare and follow-up, both to keep the patient well and to save money. The first 48 to 72 hours after discharge can be critical. And while Medicare typi-
cally sends a home health nurse to check on recently discharged patients, it can take 24 to 48 hours before their first visit. Some experts suggest one way to maximize your recovery once discharged from a hospital or rehab facility is to be sure you don’t wait to fill and take new prescriptions, and that you get settled comfortably back at home with whatever food or assistance you might need. Some home care agencies are now offering what is known as a “transitional program,” aimed to serve this function. For example, HomeCare Assistance offers a Transition Home Package designed to provide care and support tailored to the needs of post-hospitalization patients. A trained caregiver can meet you at the hospital, help with errands, prescription pickup, housekeeping and grocery shopping, prepare meals, evaluate your home safety needs, and more. Ask your home health provider if they offer such a transition program or similar services. For more information about the Transition Home Package offered by HomeCare Assistance, visit www.HomeCareAssistance.com, or call any of their four area offices: Bethesda (301) 760-4431, Washington, D.C. (202) 470-4579, McLean (703) 873-7716 or Fairfax (703) 664-1956.
Vinson Hall Wounded Warrior Housing Vinson Hall would like to make it known that their Wounded Warrior Transitional Housing is not related to or funded in any way by the Wounded Warrior Project. Rather, it is funded solely through donations made to the Navy Marine Coast Guard Residence Foundation or fundraising events, like the McLean 5K, that have been designated for that program.
Say you saw it in the Beacon | Housing and Homecare
WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — A P R I L 2 0 1 6
Assisted Living Like You’ve Never Seen Before! SM
Gainesville, VA
703-468-1475 Op e SO ning ON !
13650 Heathcote Blvd. TributeAtHeritageVillage.com Hello@TributeAt HeritageVillage.com This exceptional new Assisted Living and Memory Care community is now accepting reservations. Schedule your tour today to get the best selection of luxury suites.
At The Glen
Woodbridge, VA
(571) 402-6244 Construction is underway on this stunning Assisted Living and Memory Care community in Woodbridge. 4151 Old Bridge Road For More Information, please email: Hello@TributeAtTheGlen.com
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A P R I L 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N
Concerned about a loved one’s situation? By Joanna Saisan and Monika White Are you worried that a loved one is not safe at home? Perhaps you’ve noticed that their home has become much messier than it used to be, or that he or she is wearing stained, dirty clothes. Maybe it’s clear that your mother hasn’t had a bath for a while. Or, when you open the refrigerator, there is hardly any food inside. Or you may be worried sick about a recent fall or seeing a pan burning on the stove. It can be frightening and painful to see loved ones who are losing the ability to care for themselves. Sometimes, declines can happen gradually. Other times, a sudden change in health, recent fall, depression, or loss of a key local support can trigger difficulty. Regardless of the reason, if you’re wor-
ried about safety or the condition of the home, it’s important to bring it up with your loved one to see what can be done.
Tips for starting the conversation If you encounter resistance to change, try to find the real reasons behind it. A seemingly resistant loved one could simply be frightened that he or she is no longer able to do tasks that were formerly so easy, or may be finding chronic untreated pain is making life difficult. It might be more comfortable for them to deny the real problems and minimize them. Perhaps he or she is grieving the loss of a loved one, or feeling frustrated at not being able to connect with friends. If your loved one has a difficult time getting out and is losing support, he or she is also at
risk for depression. Express your concerns as your own, without accusing. A loved one might be more open to your honest expressions of concern. For example, instead of saying, “It’s clear you can’t take care of yourself anymore. Something needs to be done,” try, “I’ve really been worried about you. It hurts me to think that you might not be getting everything you need. What do you think we should do?” Respect your loved one’s autonomy and involve him or her in decisions. Unless your loved one is incapacitated, the final decision about care is up to him or her. You can help by offering suggestions and ideas. For example, what home care services might bridge the gap? If you’re worried that home care might not be enough, what other options are available? You can frame it as something to try temporarily, instead of trying to impose a permanent solution. Enlist help. Does your loved one know others who have used home care services, or have had to move? Talking to others who have had positive experiences can sometimes help remove fear of the unknown. You may want to consider having a meeting with your loved one’s doctor, or hire a geriatric care manager to function as an intermediary. Sometimes hearing
feedback from an unbiased third party can help a loved one realize that things need to change.
Dementia changes the equation If your loved one is becoming incapable of making decisions, you might be worried that your loved one is putting himself in danger. Someone with worsening memory problems, for example, may forget to turn the gas off, or wander outside and get lost. This may be a concern with diseases such as later stage Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias, Parkinson’s disease, or stroke. If you have the opportunity, it’s best to bring this up before your loved one has reached the level of incapacity, although it can be a difficult conversation to have. If your loved one has designated someone with durable power of attorney in case of incapacity, then that person can make decisions if your loved one is no longer able to. If not, then you may need to petition for guardianship or conservatorship. You may want to consult an advocacy group and an elder law attorney to best understand your options. Excerpted from www.helpguide.org. To read the full article, go to www.bit.ly/ unsafe-at-home.
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ARLEIGH BURKE PAVILION
Keeping Your Family Ties Close
CALL 38 703-5 -2975
Located in idyllic McLean, Arleigh Burke Pavilion’s assisted living apartments offer all the luxurious comforts of home within a vibrant Life Plan Community. Enjoy the best of both worlds: the independence you’re accustomed to plus any help you may need with daily activities. Studio and one-bedroom apartments are now available. www. VinsonHall.org 1739 Kirby Road McLean, Virginia 22101
Say you saw it in the Beacon | Housing and Homecare
WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — A P R I L 2 0 1 6
B-11
FREE HOUSING AND OTHER INFORMATION For free information from advertisers in this special section, check off those that interest you and mail this entire page to the Beacon. Please do not request info if you are not interested. All replies have an equal chance to win. To be eligible for Wolf Trap tickets, your reply must arrive by May 1, 2016.
HOUSING COMMUNITIES: WASHINGTON, DC ❑ Friendship Terrace . .B-8 & B-13 ❑ Glover Park . . . . . . . . . . . . .B-3 ❑ Knollwood . . . . . . . .B-5 & B-16
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The Bonifant . . . . . .B-5 & B-14 Brooke Grove . .B-6, B-12 & B-19 Churchill Senior Living . . . . .B-4 Covenant Village . . .B-4 & B-17 Emerson House . . . .B-4 & B-15 Homecrest House . . .B-6 & B-18 Mrs. Philippines Home . . . . .B-4 Riderwood . . . . . . . .B-2 & B-19
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Almost Home . . . . . . . . . . .B-16 Arleigh Burke Pavilion . . . .B-10 Ashby Ponds . . . . . . .B-2 & B-8 Chancellor’s Village . . .B-2 & B-13 Chesterbrook Residences . . . . . .B-5 & B-13 Falcons Landing . . . .B-7 & B-13 Great Falls . . . . . . . .B-8 & B-17 Greenspring . . . . . . . .B-2 & B-6 Gum Springs Glen . . . . . . . .B-4 Herndon Harbor House . . . . .B-4 Lockwood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B-4 Morris Glen . . . . . . . . . . . . .B-4 Potomac Place . . . . . . . . . .B-18
❑ Tall Oaks . . . . . . . . .B-5 & B-14 ❑ Tribute at the Glen . . . . . . . .B-9 ❑ Tribute at Heritage Village . .B-9 & B-15 ❑ Tysons Towers . . . . . . . . . . .B-16 ❑ Waltonwood . . . . . . .B-3 & B-15 ❑ Wingler House . . . . . . . . . . .B-4
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Check the boxes you’re interested in and return this entire coupon to: The Beacon, P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915-2227. You may also include the free info coupon on page 5. One entry per household please. Name __________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Address ____________________________________________________E-mail_______________________________________________ City _______________________________________________________ State ______________________ Zip ____________________ Phone (day) _______________________________________________ (eve) ________________________________________________ Please provide your telephone number and e-mail address so we may contact you promptly if you win the drawing.
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B-12
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A P R I L 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N
SMOOTH MOVE SEMINAR
“HOW TO SELL YOUR HOME FOR TOP DOLLAR” A free seminar presented by Eric Stewart, Long & Foster senior real estate specialist and host of a weekly radio show on WMAL 105.9 FM.
THURSDAY, April 7, 2016 • 2 - 3 p.m. B Brooke Grove ov Rehabilitation and d Nursing Center en S oo Road, oa Sandy an M 20860 181311 Slade School Spring, MD
In this highly engaging presentation, you’ll get the inside scoop on how to sell your home for top dollar. Learn about the local real estate market and gain insights on how to approach the sale of your home, including tips on timing, pricing, sorting through your possessions and home improvements with the best rate of return. For more information or to register, please contact Toni Davis at 301-388-7209 or tdavis@bgf.org by April 5.
Say you saw it in the Beacon | Housing and Homecare
WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — A P R I L 2 0 1 6
CCRCs offer a lifetime of housing and healthcare Continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs), or multi-level care facilities, assure their residents independent living as long as possible, and provide for assisted living and nursing assistance if or when it is needed. This type of living arrangement can be particularly useful to financially sound couples who are in need of different levels of care and who wish to maintain a strong relationship. The typical CCRC resident is a physically and financially independent, 80year old, highly educated, single female. Although CCRCs gained a somewhat negative reputation in the 1980s because some closed due to financial difficulty, the number of CCRCs in the United States has reached about 1,200 and continues to grow. (Maryland has 37 CCRCs) Approximately 350,000 residents live in these for-profit and not-for-profit facilities, and this number will continue to increase as more individuals are able to meet the eligibility requirements for CCRCs. Entrance restrictions normally specify a minimum age, as well as a certain level of health and finances. Waiting lists can be months or years long for such facilities, so it’s best to start looking into continuing care facilities well before you are planning to move.
Levels of care Most CCRCs provide three separate levels of care: independent living units, assisted living, and skilled nursing care. In some cases, individuals move progressively through these levels of care: they need little care in the beginning and progressively require a
greater amount of care. In other cases, residents require additional care for a limited period of time and then return to independent or assisted living. During the first of these levels, the resident lives in his or her own residential unit. Double occupancy units exist for married individuals, but the majority are single units in the form of studio apartments, one-bedroom, two-bedroom, or larger units. During this period, residential services might include housekeeping, laundry services and meals. Acute medical treatment in the form of skilled nursing, physical therapy, or assistance with personal needs is also available. While independent, residents are most likely to take advantage of the residential facilities — which can include craft rooms, gardening areas, golf courses, recreational facilities, tennis courts, swimming pools and walking trails. Assisted living is an intermediate level of care that some residents experience between independent living and skilled nursing care. During this phase, residents with chronic care needs are assisted both medically and with personal care tasks (bathing, dressing, eating, etc.). Finally, skilled nursing care is also offered by the majority of CCRCs in the form of short- and long-term nursing care and rehabilitative services. These services are often offered on-site, although some facilities contract with nearby nursing homes. Services offered to all residents typicalSee CCRCs, page B-14
B-13
INDEPENDENT LIVING AND ASSISTED LIVING
Chancellor’s Village 540-412-3640 12100 Chancellor’s Village Ln. Fredericksburg, VA 22407
Live your golden years to the fullest at Chancellor’s Village, where active seniors enjoy every day with the support of caring staff. Conveniently located off exit 130 from I-95 between Washington and Richmond, Chancellor’s Village offers the finest independent living and assisted living for seniors in the Fredericksburg area. When you visit Chancellor’s Village, you’ll notice that our vibrant community has the elegance of a country club and the charm of a southern manor. Residents of Chancellor’s Village live in spacious, beautifully appointed apartment homes, and enjoy fine dining, housekeeping and 24-hour caregiver services. Our calendar is packed with events and activities each day, from bible study to zumba classes. Come unretire and start living at Chancellor’s Village.
INDEPENDENT LIVING COMMUNITY
Falcons Landing 703-439-1521 20522 Falcons Landing Circle Potomac Falls, VA 20165 www.FalconsLanding.org/DreamsComeTrue Luxurious Living after a Career of Service. Nestled near the Potomac River in scenic Northern Virginia, Falcons Landing is a vibrant hub for residents who have retired from work, but not from life! We continually strive to provide the best experiences for our residents. Come see our new expansion, which includes a new Wellness and Fitness Complex, contemporary Woodburn Café and stylish Compass Club! Falcons Landing is a community of retired military officers of all branches of service, senior-level federal employees, their spouses and surviving spouses, as well as those officers honorably discharged with any length of service. At Falcons Landing, the adventure continues! Call us to schedule a lunch in our new Woodburn Cafe!
Just Press Play! ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITY
Chesterbrook Residences 703-531-0781
If you can’t visit us in person, take a virtual tour! Explore FriendshipTerrace.org and discover all that our community has to offer, including testimonial videos from residents, interviews with our staff, and much more. When you’re ready to stop by, call us at 202-244-7400 (TRS 711) to schedule your in-person visit.
2030 Westmoreland Street Falls Church, VA www.chesterbrookres.org
FriendshipTerrace.org
1-800-643-3769 DC RELAY SERVICE • 1-800-643-3768 TTY 4201 Butterworth Place NW, Washington, DC 20016
At Chesterbrook Residences, you will be able to live with dignity, grace and security, close to the people and places you love in a comfortable, neighborhood setting. We offer an active assisted-living lifestyle for those 62 and over. A variety of one- and two-bedroom floor plans are available. Enjoy our community living room with fireplace, beautiful views, and chef-prepared meals in our gracious main dining room. Rehab services are available 5 days a week, offering physical, occupational and speech therapy, most of which are covered by Medicare Part B. We also have an on-site wellness center with visiting physician and podiatrist. We are a mixed-income nonprofit, so our rates are affordable and all inclusive.
B-14
Housing and Homecare | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com
CCRCs From page B-13 ly include educational programs, exercise classes, meals, on-site healthcare, organized social activities and transportation. Under almost all circumstances, an individual must be healthy and reasonably independent to be admitted to a CCRC. The level of care needed by the resident is initially assessed, and this process should be clearly explained in the residential contract. Normally, care is assessed by a group that includes family members, medical advisors, and the manager of the CCRC.
Fees and payments The availability of these services and activities can make CCRCs quite expensive. All fees should be clearly detailed in the initial membership contract. Before you sign a contract, you should have a financial advisor look over your finances to make sure you will be able to meet the terms of the contract for the years to come. Additionally, the financial advisor should look over the finances of the CCRC to make sure that it is a sound financial investment for the future. Three types of payment plans exist for CRCCs, including a plan with an entry and
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12052 N. Shore Dr. • Reston, VA 20190 www.TallOaksAL.com
703-834-9800
Coordinated Services Management, Inc. Professional Management of Retirement Communities Since 1981
A P R I L 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N
monthly fee, a plan with a rental fee, and a plan based on equity. • Entry and monthly fee plans are the most widely used. Under this type of plan, the resident pays a sizable up-front entry fee, which may be nonrefundable, refundable on a declining basis over time, partially refundable, or even fully refundable. The policies concerning the initial entrance fee vary between CCRCs, so check the contract of the specific facility to learn more about its policy. On average, entrance fees range from $100,000 to $750,000, and monthly fees of $3,000 to $5,000 are charged to cover expenses associated with the living unit, required medical care and services. • Rental plans charge a rental or monthly fee to cover housing and services. Many times healthcare isn’t included in these services, so check carefully when looking at these plans. • Equity-based plans allow individuals to purchase their own living area. In doing so, individuals also may gain value from the appreciation of the living area, but are allowed to resell the unit only to qualified individuals. In these situations, an owner’s association governs the residential services and healthcare, which residents can purchase in addition to the living area. Regardless of the payment plan, costs vary due to age, gender, marital status, and location of the facility. You should expect to pay higher rates if you: • are young and financially secure, such that monthly rates will be paid for a period of years, • are female, because of the longer lifeexpectancy, and/or • are married, because there is a greater likelihood that one spouse will become ill and the other will eventually move to a smaller living unit, increasing turnover in the unit.
Three kinds of contracts It is also important to have an attorney
review the CCRC contract before you sign it. Remember that this document is legally binding and intended to cover housing and healthcare for the remainder of your life. Payment contracts for CCRCs are set up in one of three ways: extensive, modified, and fee-for-service. • Extensive contracts are the most comprehensive, covering amenities, residential services, housing, and long-term nursing care without an increase in monthly payments (except for normal inflation adjustments). The structure of extensive contracts spreads health risk among all residents so that no resident will experience financial ruin. Most CCRCs offer this type of contract. • A modified contact covers amenities, residential services, housing, and only a specified amount of nursing care. After the duration of the specified nursing care has been used, a resident would pay for required services on a daily or monthly basis. • A fee-for-service contract covers amenities, residential services, and housing, but only emergency or short-term nursing care. Residents must pay for longterm nursing care at daily rates.
Finding the right facility Since there are no federal regulations governing CCRCs, find out what state or local guidelines exist. Additionally, check to see if the facility is accredited by CARF — an independent, nonprofit accrediting body. Accreditation by CARF means that the facility has met certain standards in the areas of residential life, health and wellness, financial resources and disclosure, and governance and administration. This accreditation requires CCRCs to submit annual financial statements and must be renewed every five years. Courtesy of the National Caregivers Library. For additional articles on caregiving, housing and healthcare, see www.caregiverslibrary.org.
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WB 4/16
WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — A P R I L 2 0 1 6
Questions to ask of a CCRC As with all residential communities, before you agree to move to a CCRC, you should visit several facilities and interview staff and residents. Below are some questions to ask at your visit, in addition to the more basic questions you would ask about any residential facility. Additionally, it is smart to visit a facility several times before making a final decision. While you are there, be sure to eat with residents, talk to the staff, and pick up a current copy of the resident handbook. If possible, try to stay in the guest quarters once or twice as well. Questions specific to CCRCs include: • Is the facility accredited by CARF? • Are there fitness facilities on the premises? • What types of recreational activities are offered? How often? Who plans them? • Is there a community council that allows residents to voice concerns and help in managing the community? • What types of community rules and regulations exist? • Can residents have pets? • What happens if a couple moves in and one of the individuals falls ill and must move to a nursing home? Is the other required to move? What happens if the spouse gets well after the other has moved? • How long will the community main-
tain a living unit if a resident is temporarily placed in a nursing unit? • Under what other conditions might you be asked to move? • What is the entrance fee and under what circumstances is this fee refundable? • How are the monthly fees established and what are these fees estimated to be? • What services are included for these fees? • Under what conditions can these fees be increased? • Who decides what type of care individuals require? How often is this reassessed? • What type of healthcare is provided at the facility? Short-term? Long-term? • What are the limits, if any, to the health and medical care covered by the regular fees? • Can Medicare or Medicaid be used at the nursing/health center? • What are the policies for transferring an individual between levels of care? (Get these in writing.) • Does the facility guarantee that a nursing home on or near the property will be available when needed? • What actions are taken if your personal financial resources become depleted? — National Caregivers Library
BEACON BITS
Apr. 9+
BAY-FRIENDLY LAWN CARE
The U.S. National Arboretum presents free seminars on keeping a bay-friendly lawn on Saturdays, April 9 and April 23 from 10 a.m. to noon. Learn to use maintenance techniques that will create a lawn that is attractive and safe for people, pets and the watershed. A guided tour of the outdoor “Grass Roots Exhibit” will follow the workshop. There will be light refreshments and door prizes. Registration is requested. The Arboretum is located at 3501 New York Ave. NE, Washington, D.C. For more information or to register, visit www.usna.usda.gov or call (202) 245-5965.
Apr. 26+
WATERCOLORIST EXHIBIT
The Potomac Valley Watercolorists presents an exhibit of their work, which will be on view from Tuesday, April 26 through Sunday, June 26 at Green Spring Garden’s Horticultural Center and Historic House. The exhibition includes over 100 landscapes and floral works. A special artists reception and awards ceremony will take place on May 1 from 1 to 3 p.m. The exhibit and the reception are free and open to the public. The gardens are located at 4603 Green Spring Rd., Alexandria, Va. For more information, visit www.potomacvalleywatercolorists.org or www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/greenspring, or call (703) 642 5173.
Ongoing
LAUREL WWI EXHIBIT DONATIONS
Laurel Historical Society is looking for WWI donations and information for the 2017 Laurel Historical Society Exhibit, which focuses on World War I. The group is especially searching for information on people; events, including parades, dances, the Spanish flu and Prohibition; artifacts; and letters relating to Laurel during the war. For information or donations, contact the Laurel Historical Society at info@laurelhistoricalsociety.org or (301) 725-7975.
Say you saw it in the Beacon | Housing and Homecare
B-15
ASSISTED LIVING/MEMORY CARE
Tribute at Heritage Village 703-468-1475 13650 Heathcote Bolulevard Gainsville, VA 20155 hello@tributeatheritagevillage.com If you are looking for an Assisted Living and Memory Care community in Prince William County, you don’t have to look any further. Prince William has been anticipating a community with a high level of luxury in senior living, featuring advanced care systems for accurate and accountable care. While care is at the core of Tribute at Heritage Village, an excellent quality of life is an essential feature of the community. We have a Director of Excitement whose only job is to keep residents anticipating what’s next and what excitement tomorrow will bring. Whether it’s activities on the third floor open-air terrace, or adventures in the luxury motor coach, residents stay active in meaningful pastimes.
INDEPENDENT LIVING COMMUNITY
Emerson House 301-779-6196 5999 Emerson Street Bladensburg, MD 20710 Emerson House Apartments is conveniently located on Emerson Street, just off of Rt. 450 and 57th Ave in Bladensburg, Md. A quaint residential setting, just minutes from neighborhood shopping, the community is convenient to Prince George's Hospital, a local library, public transportation and parks. Activities within Emerson House include: exercise classes, a Wii bowling league, arts and crafts classes, bingo, movie night, parties, bus trips and much more. Emerson House is a nine-story, community designed for today’s seniors (62 and older). Our 220 one-bedroom units offer Section 8 rent subsidy for low- to moderate-income households. Please call today to request an application or make an appointment to tour our community. 301-779-6196. Monday – Friday, 8:30 to 5:00.
INDEPENDENT/ASSISTED/MEMORY CARE
Waltonwood Ashburn 571-982-6318 44144 Russell Branch Parkway Ashburn, VA 20147 www.Waltonwood.com Social opportunities and luxury amenities await you at Waltonwood Ashburn, a community from Singh Development opening early 2017 with independent living, assisted living and memory care communities. Our broad range of amenities includes a spa, saltwater therapy pool, fitness and wellness center, movie theatre, cafe, convenience store and more. Enjoy chef prepared meals in our elegant dining room, plus personal care services and courtesy transportation. You will love our beautifully appointed studio, 1- and 2-bedroom apartment homes. Visit our on-site information center for tours 7 days a week. It's located on Russell Branch Parkway near the intersection of Ashburn Village Blvd. and Russell Branch Parkway. Visit now to get on our priority list.
B-16
Housing and Homecare | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com
A P R I L 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N
She advocates for those in long-term care pointed state ombudsman in February. She even gives out her personal phone number so people don’t have to navigate a maze of voicemail prompts to get assistance. While information on how to contact the ombudsman must be clearly posted in facilities, and ombudsmen make regular visits, many residents and family members remain unfamiliar with the program, Ellis said. The program, which has been around since the early 1970s, is part of the national ombudsman program that was established by the Older Americans Act. Under that
A Great Retirement? You’ve Earned It.
Now It’s Time To Enjoy It At Knollwood. The nation’s first military retirement community has provided more than 50 years of service to those who experienced the unique life of the military family. Knollwood is built on the cornerstones of personal attention, superior care and camaraderie. Knollwood, bordering Rock Creek Park, is convenient to all Washington, D.C., has to offer. Our affordable continuing care retirement community features modern independent living apartments from 500 to 2,900 sq. ft., assisted living apartments, skilled nursing and memory care and a new Independent Living Plus option. To schedule a tour, contact the Marketing & Admissions Office at 202-541-0149 or marketing@armydistaff.org
Visit us online at www.armydistaff.org
6200 Oregon Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20015 Knollwood, a continuing care retirement community, is owned and operated by the Army Distaff Foundation, a nonprofit charitable organization committed to providing a safe, permanent home for uniformed officers and family members.
act, each Area Agency on Aging has an ombudsman office. In Maryland, there are 19 ombudsman offices, with about 155 volunteers and 36 full-time ombudsmen. In fiscal year 2015, Maryland’s program made more than 11,000 facility visits to check up on everything from medication administration to meal quality to how well staff follow physician’s orders for care. In that year, it addressed nearly 3,000 complaints.
PHOTO COURTESY OF STEVEANNE ELLIS
By Barbara Ruben In her first months on the job as Maryland state long-term care ombudsman, one of Steveanne Ellis’s first hurdles is making sure people know she exists. Ellis oversees the network of staff and volunteers across that state that help resolve resident problems in Maryland’s 230 nursing homes and 1,500 assisted living facilities. “We really want the residents and the staff to know we’re around, what we do, what the program is all about, that they can reach us, that we’re available,” said Ellis, who was ap-
“Best job ever” Ellis has a degree in social work and has been an ombudsman in Anne Arundel County. Before taking over Maryland’s top ombudsman position, Ellis spent two years in the only other full-time position in the state office. “Half my career has been in ombudsman work. In between, I’ve worked in nursing homes, hospitals, and with those with brain injury,” she said. “My mother was in a nursing home, and I’ve had other family members in facilities. I think the nice thing about having all of that background is it really helps me do that job a lot better. “I know what it’s like to be an employee in a facility. I know what it’s like to have a family member in a facility. I know what it’s like to be an ombudsman out in the field.” All of that has helped Ellis jump feet first into the job. “I take it very seriously. It’s the best job ever. But it’s also very hard. I’m very devoted to making sure people in facilities have their rights protected, that they have a good quality of life, that they get good care, that they get choices in making decisions.” Part of her role involves training both the staff and volunteer ombudsmen throughout the state. She has four training sessions a year for staff, and two conference calls with volunteers each year. The next, in April, will
Steveanne Ellis is the new Maryland state long-term care ombudsman.
cover end-of-life issues in care facilities. “I think that’s really important, because all of our ombudsman need to be strong and educated so we can better advocate for people and facilities,” Ellis said. “So that’s a really big focus of mine, to look at how we do our training, to make sure it’s the best it possibly can be and, when situations arise, make sure we’re prepared as best as we can be.”
Common concerns For two years in a row, the most frequent complaints that have been handled centered around discharge and evictions from nursing homes. These can range from residents being told to leave because they have not paid their bill, to having needs that can’t be met there — such as a dementia patient who starts wandering out of a non-secure facility. Ellis recalled one woman who insisted she could go home even though she required support 24 hours a day — something she did not have available at home. In assisted living facilities, food service See OMBUDSMAN, page B-17
Say you saw it in the Beacon | Housing and Homecare
WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — A P R I L 2 0 1 6
Declutter and keep what you love most By Beth J. Harpaz Reading Marie Kondo’s best-selling books about decluttering is intimidating. I have a complicated relationship with many of my possessions: souvenirs from favorite places, gifts from loved ones. Even if I never use them, how could I part with them? And how could I face my overflowing cupboards and scary closets? But I got over my fears. Ultimately, Kondo’s books — The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up and Spark Joy — are not so much about throwing things out as they are about “choosing what we want to keep,” as Kondo puts it. Here’s what it felt like going Kondo.
The bathroom was easy Kondo says sentimental things should be left for last. So I started with the most unsentimental place: the bathroom. There’s no emotion in tossing expired medication, used Ace bandages and unclaimed toothbrushes, or in consolidating half-empty boxes of Band-Aids. Those baby steps strengthened my discard muscle. Next, I said goodbye to fragrances and lipsticks I never use. In cleaning out, I unearthed a cache of skin creams and cleansers that I like. I now keep some handy for daily use, and store others in a beautifully decorated gift box I’d been reluctant to part with. Keeping and using the box this way fit several Kondo principles. First, she says, “Everything you own wants to be of use to you.” Second, she says, don’t buy storage containers. Instead, use things you already own: shoeboxes, stationery boxes, decorative bowls. Third, Kondo is no minimalist. “Adorn your home with the things you love,” she
Ombudsman From page B-16 was the second most frequently cited complaint. “That can be anything from they don’t like the way the food tastes, to the portions are too small, to ‘they serve us baloney sandwiches all day.’ “Issues surrounding [the administration of medication] was concern number three, and then dignity and staff attitude,” Ellis said.
Preventing problems As much as resolving problems in care facilities is important, Ellis also wants to prevent them from happening in the first place. “I want people to understand how facilities are organized so they don’t have any false expectations, so they don’t think they’re always going to have shrimp for every meal. I want people to be very realistic about what long-term care is like — that each facility is unique,” she said. Another goal for Ellis is to educate not just older adults about how ombudsmen
urges. My pretty box now brightens a shelf. Folding is also critical. Kondo says every foldable object has its own “sweet spot ... a folded state that best suits that item.” I’m still working on folding the bathroom towels just right, but after studying her techniques, I get the origami-like art of folding shirts.
Sort by category Don’t clean shelves and drawers one by one, Kondo says. Instead, sort by category to “compare items that are similar in design, making it easier to decide whether you want to keep them.” In the kitchen, I surveyed all the bakeware at once, shedding excess cookie cutters and muffin tins. A dozen random mugs and two teapots were given away. I counted a dozen vases and kept four. I was stunned to find nearly 40 portable water bottles tucked in cupboards; I kept two. I also stacked items by shape, as Kondo suggests, transforming cluttered shelves. Then I gathered decorative platters and bowls, many of them gifts that weren’t to my taste, and employed her ritual: “Take each item in one’s hand and ask: ‘Does this spark joy?’ If it does, keep it. If not, dispose of it.” As I proceeded, I contemplated the giftgivers’ kindness. “You don’t need to feel guilty for parting with a gift,” Kondo writes. “Just thank it for the joy it gave you when you first received it.” Along the way, I found things I love, like a carved wooden dish I now use to display fruit. I hesitated over my mom’s ornate, silver-plated sugar-and-creamer, which I’ll never use. But I cleaned the tarnish off and a friend pronounced them “shabby chic.” They See DECLUTTER page B-18
can advocate for better care, but younger people as well. That’s because some young people also end up in nursing homes because of accidents or illness. Ultimately, Ellis wishes that her position might become unnecessary. “We would love not to have any problems, ever. We want the residents to do well, the food to be wonderful, the staff to be nice, and everything be just like you want it to be, to be like a home,” she said. “Whether you are in a nursing home or assisted living for a week or for years, we want it to be homelike and a nice place to be. We want to make sure the quality of life is good. “Unfortunately, that’s not always the case…but when it’s not, I am glad we can be here to help.” Ellis can be reached at (410) 767-2161. These local ombudsman offices can also be contacted about concerns in long-term care or assisted living settings: Baltimore County: (410) 887-4200 Baltimore City: (401) 396-3144 Anne Arundel County: (410) 222-4464
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ASSISTED LIVING/MEMORY CARE
Great Falls Assisted Living 703-421-0690 1121 Reston Avenue Herndon, VA 20170 Imagine a memory care specific community with open spaces, walking paths, and a family feel. Add security, an experienced team, and 24/7 licensed nursing care. Top it off with robust programming, outings, and activities tailored to the individual and you have Great Falls Assisted Living! Our mission is to promote independence and dignity for residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementia. This commitment is reflected in the design of our community and through everything we do. A family member recently said, “Great Falls has been wonderful. I no longer feel alone in caring for my dad, I feel like I have a team with me now.” Schedule your tour today and experience the feeling for yourself.
INDEPENDENT LIVING COMMUNITY
Covenant Village 301-540-1162 18889 Waring Station Road Germantown, MD 20874 www.qpmgmt.com • Spacious 2-bedroom plans with washer/dryer in each apt. • Covenant Village shuttle bus for shopping and local trips • Fitness room, billiard room, game/crafts room, movie theatre • On-site beauty salon, garden plots It’s all about our residents, says Kathy the Property Manager. The staff ensures that the residents always have interesting and exciting activities going on. Some of the fun includes movie nights, new resident meet and greet, holiday parties, fashion shows, and community dinners. Attendance at the wine and cheese and ice cream socials is close to 100%. Covenant Village was recently awarded a trophy by the Property Management Association for being Maryland’s Best Affordable Community in their category! Please call today to make an appointment for a tour.
INDEPENDENT/PERSONAL CARE/ASSISTED LIVING
Seabury at SPRINGVALE TERRACE 301-587-0190 8505 Springvale Road Silver Spring, MD 20910 www.springvaleterrace.org Located in the heart of Silver Spring, Springvale Terrace blends affordability with convenience, style and quality care. Independent apartments are available, and enhanced senior living is complemented with personal care services including three meals a day, housekeeping, laundry, and medication administration. And if additional care is needed, Springvale Terrace also has beautiful assisted living apartments. This range of services—combined with low monthly rates—provides just the right amount of assistance to meet your needs while allowing you to live in an apartment you’ll love. Call today to learn more and schedule your personal tour.
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Housing and Homecare | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com
A P R I L 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N
So you want to retire to another state? Sorry, snowbirds! Florida is no longer one of the most preferred states for retirees. That’s at least according to a new survey by Bankrate, which ranked states on a variety of different criteria, including cost of living, crime, taxes and the quality of healthcare services. The top 10 list they came up with is long on scenic mountain states and included only one traditional “Sun Belt” choice and one on the East Coast. They are: Wyoming, South Dakota, Colorado, Utah, Virginia, Montana, Idaho, Iowa, Arizona and Nebraska. The bottom 10 list includes some pretty popular states, at least with visitors, such as New York (my home state!), Louisiana (where I grew up), Alaska and Hawaii.
But there are lots of ways to decide where to live in retirement and some of them may be more valuable than others. I’m assuming that you’re interested in making your money last, but also in being healthy and happy.
Factor in crime and weather Consider crime, for example. It may be natural to be fearful of street crime as you get older. But a 10-year study by the U.S. Justice Department found that elderly people are actually less likely to be victims of violent or property crimes. What older people really have to fear are financial scams targeted at them, which can strike no matter where you live, considering that criminals increasingly reach
Dorothea Alexander {resident since 2012}
where you can buy and pay for a house or pay for care. But some places have a low cost of living because they’re economically depressed. Low taxes may come along with poor social services. And speaking of social services, healthcare is a big one. Health statistics of a given state are affected by average income and other demographic factors, but also by the service infrastructure. Hawaii is pricey, sure, but all those palm trees and pineapples add up to super longevity — an average life expectancy of 81 years, the highest in the nation — and
Declutter
She also says nothing is too special for everyday wear. So now I wear a favorite black velvet top to work.
From page B-17
You Deserve It All And you’ll find it at Potomac Place! “The people at Potomac Place are the nicest people. They always greet you with a smile or a hug.”
their victims via phone or the Internet. Another consideration is the weather. The truth is, different people prefer different kinds of weather. But there is some evidence that warmer weather improves subjective mood, and that death rates are lower in warmer weather too. It’s also worth considering the risk of extreme weather events in your area. Hurricanes, floods, tornadoes and earthquakes all necessitate different kinds of preparation and bring different amounts of stress to your life. Taxes and cost of living may seem like pretty straightforward indicators of potential happiness. It makes sense to move to
now decorate a windowsill. As Kondo says, “If you have items that you love even though they seem useless, please give them a turn in the spotlight.”
Tackling clothes Call 703-494-3817 today. PotomacPlace.com
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Coordinated Services Management, Inc. - Professional Management of Retirement Communities since 1981
I dumped all my clothes on my bed and dove in. Some didn’t fit, or were stained or damaged. Some were gifts, or I’d bought them on vacation. I sent the rejects off with Kondo’s blessing: “Thank you for giving me joy when I bought you,” or “Thank you for teaching me what doesn’t suit me.” “By acknowledging their contribution and letting them go with gratitude, you will be able to truly put the things you own, and your life, in order,” she writes. Kondo is fine with keeping things you don’t use, as long as “you can say without a doubt, ‘I really like this!’” So I kept the flowered confection of a hat I bought in England, although I’ll never wear it.
See WHERE TO RETIRE, page B-19
Scary places, beautiful spaces I have a dark, scary closet under the roof that I’ve been throwing stuff into for 20 years. Kondo emboldened my excavation. Crumbling 1970s luggage? Out! Subzero military boots bought secondhand for a winter trip to Alaska? Donated to the Salvation Army. My outdoorsy son’s camping equipment stayed, but Kondo’s folding techniques helped reduce the space needed for his weatherproof clothing and bedding. Once again, forgotten treasures emerged: artwork from Morocco, a carved wooden bowl that belonged to my late mother-in-law. Both are now on display. “By the time you finish, you’ll see something you love everywhere you look,” Kondo writes. And that’s her real genius: “You are not choosing what to discard but rather what to keep.” — AP
WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — A P R I L 2 0 1 6
Build caregiving into your financial plan By Anya Kamenetz MetLife recently estimated that the total cost to the economy in lost wages, pension and Social Security benefits for adults taking care of aging parents and other relatives is nearly $3 trillion. For individuals providing day-to-day care, typically women, the average lifetime economic hit they take is a whopping $324,044. The impact of eldercare on a woman’s finances, in short, can be similar to the impact of having children. Except very few people plan for these costs, and to some extent they’re not easy to forecast. There’s nothing I can write in this column that will make it any easier for you, or your parents, to deal with the fact that they are going to get older. But here are some actions to consider. Leverage your networks. Now is the time to talk to your siblings, stepsiblings and other relatives about who will do what when Mom and/or Dad can’t take care of themselves anymore. The financial and mental burden will be lessened if it is shared. Price out, and try out, care options. The main reason most people miss work to care for elderly relatives is that they don’t feel they can hire anyone to replace them. It may make sense to test the waters by helping your parents find, say, a housekeeper now. In the best-case scenario, it would be a person they can get to know and trust and who could take on more responsibilities over time, or at least who could get them used to the idea and routine of having someone come by the house regularly. In-home aides can range widely in cost, depending on level of training and services required. In this metro area, costs may range from $18 to $30 per hour. Live-in care costs less per hour, but you have to provide room and board. Look at your parents’ payment options. The long-term care industry forecasts that more and more people will be buying “linked-benefit” products — that is, life insurance policies that also provide some long-
term or critical illness payout. It’s also possible to convert an existing life insurance policy to one of these linked policies. A reverse mortgage, or loan against home equity, is another possibility to finance long-term care. [Long-term care insurance, which typically covers both in-home and nursing home care, is more affordable the younger you purchase it. For more information on how to select such a policy, see “Ways to afford long-term care coverage” in last November’s Beacon.] Balance housing and geographic factors. Families are often scattered these days, and traveling takes time and money. For some families, buying a home with an “in-law unit” is a good investment. If that’s not going to work, take a slightly longer visit home when you have time and get to know your parents’ local support network. Have the phone number of your parent’s friendly neighbor or handyman saved on your cell phone. Visit with the local pastor or spiritual leader. Familiarize yourself with the local volunteer groups and resources for seniors. All of this groundwork will go a long way toward your peace of mind, and may prevent some last-minute trips. Optimize career benefits and strategies. If you end up leaving a job altogether in your late 40s or early 50s to care for an elderly relative, restarting your career will be tough. Now is the time to suss out your company’s policies on workarounds like telecommuting, leaves of absence, sabbaticals and part-time schedules. You might also be able to look into freelancing, consulting and other contingencies that can keep you connected to the working world, and accruing retirement savings and benefits, even if your caregiving duties increase. Anya Kamenetz welcomes your questions at diyubook@gmail.com. © 2016 Anya Kamenetz. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC
Where to retire
ily and friends should be among your top picks for retirement. “Social capital” — literally, wealth in friendship — is a chief indicator of health, happiness and longevity. In one meta-analysis of studies covering more than 300,000 participants, those who were rich in social ties got an incredible 50 percent boost in longevity. That’s more than getting to a healthy weight or beginning an exercise program can do for you, and about on par with smoking. Just being partnered didn’t have the same impact as having a variety of people you could call on in hard times — and who can call on you. So before you up stakes and move to, say, Hawaii, see if your best friends and family want to come along too. © 2016 Anya Kamenetz. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
From page B-18 high rankings on health. The state also ranks highly on support services and healthcare access for seniors, according to the nonprofit United Health Foundation. Life expectancy in Mississippi, on the other hand, is the lowest in the nation, just 75 years, which adds sobering perspective to its low cost of living.
Social ties are important You have to look through all the evidence and make your own best decision. But Bankrate’s criteria for choosing its top 10 list did not include the most important factor for a happy, healthy retirement: social ties. The state where you have the most fam-
Say you saw it in the Beacon | Housing and Homecare
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HOME CARE
Home Care Assistance 202-470-4579 - DC 301-760-4431 - Bethesda 703-873-7716 - McLean 703-664-1956 - Fairfax www.HomeCareAssistance.com Our mission at Home Care Assistance is to change the way the world ages. We provide older adults across the Washington, D.C. metropolitan region with quality care that enables them to live happier, healthier lives at home. Our services are distinguished by the caliber of our caregivers, the responsiveness of our staff and our expertise in live-in care. We embrace a positive, balanced approach to aging centered on the evolving needs of older adults. Ask about our Cognitive Therapeutics Method for long-term brain health!
INDEPENDENT LIVING COMMUNITY
Riderwood 301-495-5700 3140 Gracefield Road Silver Spring, MD 20904 EricksonLiving.com Ideally located in Silver Spring, Riderwood offers maintenancefree retirement living combined with a vibrant lifestyle―all in a beautiful, private community. Without the worries of a house and yard, you can spend more time pursuing your passions. Travel, volunteer, take a college class and explore some of Riderwood’s many clubs and interest groups. Multiple campus restaurants offer a variety of delicious dining options, while 24-hour security offers protection and peace of mind. Enjoy the stability of predictable monthly expenses and look forward to a healthy future with our full continuum of healthcare and wellness services.
INDEPENDENT LIVING COMMUNITY
Brooke Grove Retirement Village 301-260-2320 18100 Slade School Road Sandy Spring, MD 20860 www.bfg.org You’ll feel it as soon as you drive onto our 220-acre campus of lush pastures and hardwood forest—all that makes independent living at Brooke Grove different. Beautiful cottages in a truly picturesque setting. Maintenance-free living, with more time for what you really want to do. Personalized fitness programs, meals prepared by talented chefs, clubs and social events. Neighbors who share your interests and passions. Come for a visit and see why Brooke Grove Retirement Village is one of the most soughtafter retirement communities in the state. Living here is simply different … because what surrounds you really matters.
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Housing and Homecare
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A P R I L 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N
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WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — A P R I L 2 0 1 6
Spotlight On Aging, continued Continued from page 26, preceding the Housing Options Magazine at the left.
IN THE COMMUNITY
Black History Month
National Nutritional Program Anniversary Acting Executive Director Laura Newland joins U.S. Assistant Secretary for Aging Kathy Greenlee to celebrate Older Americans Act nutrition programs at SOME’s Kuehner House. Each March, the senior nutrition community celebrates the anniversary of President Richard Nixon signing into law a measure that amended the Older Americans Act of 1965 and established a national nutrition program for seniors 60 years and older. For nearly 45 years, these vital public-private partnerships have delivered nutritious meals and more to our most vulnerable seniors in virtually every community across the country.
Washington Seniors Wellness Center celebrated black history month. This intergenerational program inspired by the past, present and future consisted of Ward 7 Anacostia Senior High School’s Army Junior ROTC; Ward 8 Ballou Senior High School’s choir; artist and visionary Steven Cummings; and guests of honor William T. Fauntroy and Walter K. Robinson.
Easter Egg Roll Older Worker Employment and Training unit participants volunteer to help stuff bags for the children participating in the White House Easter Egg Roll. For more information on how you can participate in volunteer opportunities, call 202-724-5626.
Job Readiness Training The Older Workers Employment and Training Unit of the D.C. Office on Aging and the DC Department of Human Resources partnered to provide free job readiness skills to older workers. More than 40 participants attended the training, which included interview and resume preparation skills for D.C. residents age 55 and older on two days, March 22 and 29, at the Hayes Senior Wellness Center, 500 K Street NE. For more information about future trainings, call DCHR at 202-442-9700 or DCOA at 202-724-5626.
Volunteer of the Year National Volunteer Week April 10-16, 2016 “Celebrate Service” In honor of National Volunteer Week, we honor D.C. centenarian Virginia “Grandma” McLaurin for her service as a foster grandparent since 1994. She has worked with the children at a local school in her neighborhood as a volunteer for 40 hours per week, on average. She is pictured here receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Corporation of Community Service, signed by President Barack Obama. Foster grandparent McLaurin is a shining example of the commitment to service and humanity that is the essence of volunteerism. Congratulations on 107 years of life and your continued commitment to community service!
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A P R I L 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N
D.C. OFFICE
ON
AGING NEWSLETTER
Community Calendar April
DC Office on Aging and the Mayor’s Office on Community Relations present the Edgewood Community Health, Wellness & Informational Fair. This event will take place in Crawford Hall, on the 9th floor of 635 Edgewood St. NE. For more information, contact Margie Harris, Resident Council President, at 202-674-9456.
and family members to DCOA programs and services. DCOA has valuable programs, services and resources to help residents age 60 and older remain in their communities and to provide assistance for their caregivers. Resources are also available for persons living with disabilities age 18 and older. Call 202-724-5622 to register for this DCOA Ambassador Training.
13th and 19th • 11:30 a.m.
19th • 10:30 a.m.
AARP Legal Counsel Bruce Rathbun will give a presentation at Gettysburg Senior Village I, 3001 Bladensburg Rd. NE. For more information, call Norma Hardie at 202-529-8701.
United Healthcare will do a presentation on foot health on April 13 at Gettysburg - Senior Village I, 3001 Bladensburg Rd. NE, and on April 19 at Kibar Halal Nutrition Site, 1519 4th St. NW. For more information, call Norma Hardie at 202-529-8701.
11th and 26th • 11:30 a.m.
13th+ • 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.
Chevy Chase Community Center presents their 2nd annual Community Health, Wellness & Informational Fair. The fair includes information on health, wellness and aging, including health screenings and disability and aging resources, in addition to assistance with legal counsel and housing issues. It will take place at the center, located at 5601 Connecticut Ave. NW. For more information, contact Caryl King at 202-282-2204.
7th and 13th • 11:30 a.m. A doctor from Howard University’s Geriatrics Division will speak on “Living Healthy.” On April 7, the program takes place at Delta Towers, 1400 Florida Ave. NE. On April 13, it is at Kibar Halal Nutrition Site, 1519 4th St. NW. For more information, call Norma Hardie at 202-529-8701.
11th • 12:15 p.m.
Seabury Resources for Aging Ward 5 presents “Senior Financial Fraud Prevention, Money Smart for Older Americans” on April 11 at North Capitol at Plymouth, 5233 N. Capitol St. The program will be repeated on April 26 at Edgewood Commons, 635 Edgewood St. NE. For more information, call Norma Hardie at 202-529-8701.
12th and 26th • noon The D.C. Caregivers Online Chat at Noon is a great resource for caregivers. Log on for advice, resources and tips to assist you with your caregiving responsibilities. On April 12 the topic is “Long Distance Caring.” The April 26 topic is “Safety Begins at Home: Emergency Escape Plan for Loved Ones with Mobility Challenges.” If you are not available at noon, check back at your convenience and hit replay to see the entire chat. Join the discussion at www.dcoa.dc.gov/page/ caregiver-chat. For more information, contact Linda Irizarry at 202-535-1442 or linda.irizarry@dc.gov.
13th • 10:30 a.m.
Iona’s Take Charge/Age Well Academy’s Take Charge of Your Aging 101 course series provides a broad overview of the questions and challenges you might want to consider while entering into this new chapter of your life. Topics covered include: meaningful choices in retirement; tools and support to remain independent; wellness to enhance life; navigating changing relationships; estate and financial planning; and brain and memory fitness and emotional wellness. The series begins on April 13 and continues through June 1 at Iona Senior Services, 4125 Albemarle St. NW. Refreshments will be provided. The course fee is $130, and scholarships are available upon request. For more information or to register, contact Elizabeth Frick at community@iona.org or 202-895-9420.
14th • 10 a.m. to noon Are you interested in making a difference in your community? Train to become a DCOA Ambassador, and help connect your neighbors, friends
SPOTLIGHT ON AGING Spotlight On Aging is published by the Information Office of the D.C. Office on Aging for D.C. senior residents. Advertising contained in the Beacon is not endorsed by the D.C. Office on Aging or by the publisher.
500 K St. N.E., Washington, D.C. 20002 202-724-5622 • www.dcoa.dc.gov Acting Executive Director Laura Newland Editor Darlene Nowlin Photographer Selma Dillard The D.C. Office on Aging does not discriminate against anyone
based on actual or perceived: race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, familial status, family responsibilities, matriculation, political affiliation, disability, source of income, and place of residence or business. Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination which is prohibited by the Act. In addition, harassment based on any of the above protected categories is prohibited by the Act. Discrimination in violation of the Act will not be tolerated. Violators will be subjected to disciplinary action. The Office on Aging is in partnership with the District of Columbia Recycling Program.
22nd • 6 p.m. A seminar on Alzheimer’s will take place at the AKA Center, located at 4411 14th St. NW. For more information, contact Alice Thompson at 202-535-1321.
26th • 11:30 a.m. The Office of Human Rights will hold a program called “Seniors Know your Rights” at Kibar Halal Nutrition Site, 1519 4th St. NW. For more information, call Norma Hardie at 202-529-8701.
29th • 10 a.m. The Department of Disability Services presents a Provider Resource Fair at The R.I.S.E. Demonstration Center, located at 2730 Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave. SE. For more information, contact Alonzo Brown at 202-368-7092.
May
20th and 21st • 11:15 a.m. A representative from MedStar’s Get2BreastCARE program will talk about breast cancer awareness on April 20 at Vicksburg, 3005 Bladensburg Rd. NE, and on April 21 at Green Valley, 2412 Franklin St. NE. For more information, call Norma Hardie at 202-529-8701.
22nd • 10 a.m. There will be a health fair at Madison Saints Paradise, located at 1713 7th St. NW. For more information, contact Alice Thompson at 202-535-1321.
May 19th • 5 p.m. The KEEN Seniors Program presents their annual senior Prom at St. Luke’s Center, located at 4923 East Capitol St. SE. There will be dinner, dancing and music by WPFW 89.3 FM’s DJ Nate D Skate. Dress code is all white. Tickets cost $30 for singles; $55 for couples. After May 6, tickets cost $35 each. For more information, contact Robin Gantt at 202-534-4880, ext. 110, or Chicquita Bryant, ext. 125.
Estate Planning Presentation Sponsored by Hilda and Charles Mason Charitable Foundation, Inc. & Rachel Long, Esq.
Plymouth United Congregational Church of Christ
5301 North Capitol Street, NE • Washington, D.C. 20011 202-723-2939
May 1, 2016 @ 2:00 pm
What is Elder Financial Exploitation? Presenter, Carolyn Dungee Nicholas President, Hilda and Charles Mason Charitable Foundation, Inc.
Why You Need to Have an Estate Plan Estate Planning, and Planning for Incapacity Presenter, Rachel Long, Esq. Trusts and Estates Attorney
Top 10 Things Estate Planning Can Do for You What Does an Estate Plan Include? What Happens When You Die… With a Will? Without a Will? The Importance of Planning for Incapacity The Three Legal Documents You Shouldn’t Live Without
WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — A P R I L 2 0 1 6
Say you saw it in the Beacon
Money Law &
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FREE CREDIT SCORES Many credit card companies and banks now provide your credit score free RIGHT TIME FOR REITS? Prices are low for real estate investment trusts, so you might want to buy BUYING STOCKS “ON SALE” When stocks are in the tank is often the best time to buy them FINANCIAL PLANNING TIPS Recommendations for finding (and vetting) a new financial planner
Watch out for these IRS audit red flags By Joy Taylor In 2015, the Internal Revenue Service audited only 0.84 percent of all individual tax returns. So the odds are generally pretty low that your return will be picked for review. That said, your chances of being audited or otherwise hearing from the IRS escalate depending on various factors. Math errors may draw an IRS inquiry, but they’ll rarely lead to a full-blown exam. Check out these red flags that could increase the chances that the IRS will give the return of a retired taxpayer special, and probably unwelcome, attention.
Higher-than-average deductions If deductions on your return are disproportionately large compared with your income, the IRS may pull your return for review. A large medical expense could send up a red flag, for example. But if you have the proper documentation for your deduction, don’t be afraid to claim it. There’s no reason to ever pay the IRS more tax than you actually owe.
Large charitable deductions We all know that charitable contribu-
tions are a great write-off and help you feel all warm and fuzzy inside. However, if your charitable deductions are disproportionately large compared with your income, it raises a red flag. That’s because the IRS knows what the average charitable donation is for folks at your income level. Also, if you don’t get an appraisal for donations of valuable property, or if you fail to file Form 8283 for noncash donations over $500, you become an even bigger audit target. And if you’ve donated a conservation or facade easement to a charity, chances are good that you’ll hear from the IRS. Be sure to keep all your supporting documents, including receipts for cash and property contributions made during the year.
against your other income. This $25,000 allowance phases out at higher income levels. A second exception applies to real estate professionals who spend more than 50 percent of their working hours and more than 750 hours each year materially participating in real estate as developers, brokers, landlords or the like. They can write off losses without limitation. The IRS is actively scrutinizing rental real estate losses. If you’re managing properties in your retirement, you may qualify under the second exception. Or, if you sell a rental property that produced suspended passive losses, the sale opens the door for you to deduct the losses. Just be ready to explain things if a big rental loss prompts questions from the IRS.
Gambling winnings and losses Rental losses Claiming a large rental loss can command the IRS’s attention. Normally, the passive loss rules prevent the deduction of rental real estate losses. But there are two important exceptions. If you actively participate in the renting of your property, you can deduct up to $25,000 of loss
Whether you’re playing the slots or betting on the horses, one sure thing you can count on is that Uncle Sam wants his cut. Recreational gamblers must report winnings as “other income” on the front page of the 1040 form. Professional gamblers show their winnings on Schedule C. Failure to report gambling winnings can draw
IRS attention, especially because the casino or other venue likely reported the amounts on Form W-2G. Claiming large gambling losses can also be risky. You can deduct these only to the extent that you report gambling winnings. And the costs of lodging, meals and other gambling-related expenses can only be written off by professional gamblers. Writing off gambling losses but not reporting gambling income is sure to invite scrutiny. Also, taxpayers who report large losses from their gambling-related activity on Schedule C get an extra look from IRS examiners, who want to make sure that these folks really are gaming for a living.
Writing off a loss for a hobby Your chances of “winning” the audit lottery increase if you file a Schedule C with large losses from an activity that might be a hobby — dog breeding, jewelry making, coin and stamp collecting, and the like. Agents are specially trained to sniff out those who improperly deduct hobby losses. So be careful if your retirement purSee IRS AUDIT, page 30
Yes, you can negotiate at grocery stores By Kyle James The idea of negotiating a lower price at the grocery store is often something shoppers shy away from. Whether it’s the fear of rejection or embarrassment, negotiating is rarely used as a way to save money. Well, I’m here to tell you that if you know what grocery items to look for, and have the proper negotiating strategy in place, it can be successfully done. Here are some items worth negotiating, along with tips to make it happen:
Deli and butcher counter Many shoppers are not aware that there exist great opportunities to negotiate a lower price at the deli and butcher counter. Always look for hams and roasts that are less than two pounds in size. These have typically been sliced from larger cuts, and the remaining amount is often too small to prep for lunch meat, meaning they are hard to sell by themselves.
So, politely ask the employee behind the counter if you can take it off their hands for a slight discount. I typically ask for 20 percent off and end up with a 10 to 15 percent discount most of the time.
a relationship with the produce employees. They’ll be able to tip you off to great deals, the freshest items and upcoming sales — and be more willing to lower the price for you, too.
Fruits and veggies
Wrongly priced items
The single best way to negotiate a deal on fruit and veggies at the grocery store is to look for slightly damaged items and ask for a small discount. Maybe a bunch of bananas is slightly bruised, but it won’t affect your fruit smoothie. Or maybe a head of lettuce is slightly wilted on the outside, but the leaves underneath are just fine. Politely start a conversation with the employee in the produce department, point out the defect, and ask for a small discount. This always works better if you’re buying a large quantity, as the employee will want to keep you happy. Also, if you do the majority of your shopping at a single grocery store, try to build
Almost every grocery store has a section dedicated to clearance or markeddown items placed for a quick sale. Without fail, there are always items placed in this section that appear to still be marked at full price. This happened to me recently when I found some expensive K-Cups for my Keurig brewer on the clearance rack that were not marked down. On a hunch, I asked a nearby employee if they were actually on sale. He did a quick price scan, and, sure enough, they were incorrectly priced at full retail. He did a price adjustment for me, and I walked out of the store with a sweet deal.
Now, I make it a habit to always check the clearance rack when I visit the grocery store.
Bakery items A great way to save money on cupcakes, cakes and pastries is to look for items that are a day or two from the “sell by” date. Once you find these items, simply ask the employee if they’ll be marked down soon, since they’re nearing expiration. Instead of spending the time marking them down, often the employee will happily let them go to you now at a discount. If the employee doesn’t volunteer an immediate discount, ask about the possibility of you taking them off their hands for 25 percent off. Keep in mind that, in the end, you’re actually doing them a favor, as it takes time to mark down these items, and they run the risk of having to remove them from the store if unsold. See NEGOTIATE, page 30
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IRS audit From page 29 suits include trying to convert a hobby into a moneymaking venture. You must report any income from a
Negotiate From page 29
Meats The biggest key to saving money is to know what day and time your grocery store marks down their meats that are nearing their “sell by” date. Most do it on weekdays before 10 a.m., but just ask and they’ll happily tell you. Once you know, shop right after their markdowns and then ask for a quantity dis-
A P R I L 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N
hobby, and you can deduct expenses up to the level of that income. But the law bans writing off losses from a hobby. To be eligible to deduct a loss, you must be running the activity in a business-like manner and have a reasonable expectation of
making a profit. If your activity generates profit three out of every five years (or two out of seven years for horse breeding), the law presumes that you’re in business to make a profit, unless the IRS establishes otherwise. If you’re audited, the IRS is going to
make you prove you have a legitimate business and not a hobby. Be sure to keep supporting documents for all expenses. All contents © 2016 the Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
count when buying multiple cuts. Remember, it’s only a “sell by” date and not an expiration date. Plus, the cuts are still great for freezing and using later. The key to making this work is to politely ask for a discount when buying at least five or more items that are nearing their “sell by” date. Most butcher counters are happy to clear out these items at an extra 10 to 15 percent off, as they want to get rid of them quickly before they take a loss on them.
Cases of wine
Wines, or a local beverage retailer. They’ll usually happily offer you a case discount. The keys to negotiating at the grocery store are always to be polite and have a friendly conversation rather than be demanding. Throw in a legitimate reason to ask for that discount, and you stand a great chance of saving money on your next trip. This article is from Kyle James of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. All contents © 2016 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
My local grocery store will happily sell a case of wine, typically 12 bottles, for a discount. While I’m not a wine drinker, I’ve seen several customers get discounts ranging from 10 to 15 percent by purchasing in bulk. The key to your success is to look for wine that may be overstocked, or on sale, as those are the vintages the store probably wants to clear out to make room for new inventory. If your grocery store refuses to discount, check specialty stores like BevMo!, Total
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Banks are giving out free credit scores By Ken Sweet It might be the most important piece of financial information about you — and it’s finally easier for you to actually get a look at it. Big banks and credit card companies are increasingly offering customers free access to their FICO score. This score — named after Fair Isaac Corp., the software and analytics company that developed it — is used by lenders to determine how much of a credit risk you are when they are deciding whether to issue you a new credit card, mortgage or auto loan. Banks have been able to make scores available to customers for four years as a result of a FICO initiative. But they have been slow to do so. Discover Financial was the first major credit card issuer to give its customers access to their FICO scores in 2013. But banks like JPMorgan Chase and Citigroup among others have adopted the program in the past year. “This is a piece of information that grades you and judges your ability to borrow, and because it is so crucial, you should be entitled to have it,” said Chi Chi Wu, an attorney at the National Consumer Law Center. It’s the latest move by the banks to give credit information to consumers since Congress required that the three credit bureaus offer credit reports to individuals once a year. Credit reports contain much of the information that goes into determining your score, but not the actual number. A borrower’s FICO score is used in 90 percent of lending decisions, but until recently a person had to pay for it — if it was available at all. Worse, borrowers looking for their credit score would sometimes be provided what’s known as an “educational score,” which guesses a person’s FICO score but is not the score used to determine a person’s ability to borrow.
Knowledge is power Knowing your credit score can help you negotiate for better rates and shop for better loan deals. Also, if you know your score is weak, you can work to improve it and possibly save hundreds of dollars on a future loan, or thousands of dollars on a mortgage. FICO estimates that only half of Americans have accessed their score in the past year, and far more don’t know what their score is. Jim Wehmann, executive vice president of scores for FICO, said the company recently developed what it calls its “Open Access” program partly because banks were already paying for borrowers’ FICO scores, and there was little to no cost for banks to pass along the score. “There was lots of confusion out there about what a FICO score is, and those educational scores were not helping. We felt the banks were the natural conduit to get consumers FICO scores, because that’s where the credit process begins,” Wehmann said. Wehmann estimates 100 million Americans now have access to their FICO score through a credit card or their bank.
also provide tips on how a customer can improve their credit score, like making sure you don’t max out credit cards or miss payments. Consumer advocates — regular critics of big banks — back the trend. The increased availability of free FICO scores could mean decreased revenue for the three main credit agencies — Equifax, TransUnion and Experian — that sell credit scores, credit monitoring and credit reports to consumers. The agencies’ main source of business, though, is compiling, maintaining and selling credit reports to banks. — AP
Measures financial behavior There are a number of different types of credit scores that FICO calculates, but the most common is a number between 300 and 850 points. The higher the score, the more creditworthy that borrower is. The average U.S. credit score is about 695, FICO says. FICO uses a formula — it does not share the exact calculations — that factors in a borrower’s payment history, how much debt the person has, if they have ever filed for bankruptcy, and other financial behavior. Free FICO scores have become a selling feature for banks. When Chase added free FICO score access to its Slate card in
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March 2015, applications and usage rose, said Pam Codispoti, president of consumer branded cards at Chase. Codispoti said the bank is considering adding the FICO score feature to its other cards. “It was really about stepping up to meet a consumer need. Everyone benefits when our customers have more tools to handle their financial lives,” she said. Getting your credit score through your bank won’t impact your credit score, FICO says, since the borrower is not actively looking to get new credit. Some credit card companies, like Chase and Discover,
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Beaten down REITs start to look attractive By Alex Veiga Like the rest of the stock market, real estate investment trusts (REITs) have taken a beating this year and are well off their levels from a year ago. The threat of a weaker economy has hurt, but REIT investors also have an uncertain outlook for interest rates to worry about. So this may be a good time to buy. Adam Patti, who oversees an exchangetraded fund focused on REITs as CEO of IndexIQ, thinks all this concern might make for a good time to buy REITs. REITs’ sharp fall after a big run-up about two years ago has made them more attractively priced, he says, and helped push dividend yields higher. Patti believes that interest rate hikes
won’t hurt REITs as long as the economy remains on firm footing. REITs are companies that own real estate — like malls, apartment buildings and commercial buildings. Unlike most companies, though, they operate under a tax structure that requires them to pay out to shareholders most of their annual income, which is usually from rent and lease payments. Those high payouts make them attractive to investors seeking high yields.
Interest rate concerns But REITs also require a lot of money — and often debt — to operate. So when interest rates rise it drives the cost of borrowing up, which could translate into smaller dividends for shareholders.
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Rising interest rates also means that other income-generating investments, like bonds, start paying out more and attract investors away from comparatively risky investments like REITs. The Federal Reserve raised its benchmark interest rate in December for the first time in nearly a decade and signaled the possibility of four more hikes this year. But the outlook for further Fed rate hikes has been clouded by the financial markets’ turbulent start to the year amid jitters of a slowing global economy and a slump in crude oil prices.
Some Qs and As Patti, who oversees the U.S. Real Estate Small Cap exchange-traded fund, makes the case for REITs despite their recent troubles. Answers have been edited for length and clarity: Q: Why is now a good time to invest in REITs? A: By getting in now, you’re getting into a secure asset class that has already been beaten down. In the case of (the US Real Estate Small Cap ETF), you’re getting about 5.8 percent yield while you’re waiting for prices to recover. And strategically, REITs generally are a good diversifier for your portfolio. I do counsel clients and prospects that you should have a strategic allocation to REITs generally. Q: Which types of REITs do you anticipate will fare better given the state of the economy and job market now? A: A lot of it has to do with the interest rate environment. We have seen strength in (apartment REITs). We’ve also seen strength in the office sector. The office
sector in particular could continue to do well, assuming that the economy continues to slowly strengthen. Typically, when the economy goes into recession, if that happens, then of course the office sector is going to be weaker. But (apartments) is a nice steady hand, kind of a ballast for the portfolio, because rents have been increasing pretty steadily. Q: What’s in store for REITs given the uncertainty over when the Fed will continue raising rates? A: If rates rise, what that means is the economy is on firm footing and that’s a positive for the REIT sector. Office REITs are going to do well as more businesses are going to need space. People are going to continue to rent. It goes across the board, across the economy. Now, if the economy goes into recession, that’s a negative clearly on the REITs sector, but I don’t think we’re there. We’re going to see additional rate rises, that’s my personal opinion. The Fed is going to act. Q: Are share prices for REITs in danger of falling if the Fed raises rates? A: A lot of that has been priced in, certainly at this point, given the Fed’s position on rates. Q: Are REITs yields in jeopardy? A: Yields are very robust now because it’s an inverse relationship with the price of the security. The security prices have come down so severely over the last 12 months that your effective dividend yield has gone up. So buying now you’re locking in a nice robust rate over the next cycle. — AP
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WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — A P R I L 2 0 1 6
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How to buy low: some recommendations By James K. Glassman Shoppers love bargains, except when it comes to stocks. When a stock’s price falls sharply, few investors react with giddiness at the prospect of getting something for less. More likely — especially if they already own the stock — they respond with anxiety or cold fear. Rather than buy the stock, they’re more apt to sell it. Certainly there are valid reasons for stocks to lose value. But you need to train yourself to see such declines as opportunities, not as calamities. Warren Buffett, the most successful stock investor of modern times, put it well: “Look at market fluctuations as your friend rather than your enemy.” The sell-off that began in early December serves as a good illustration. The market as a whole fell about 10 percent in two months, but individual stocks fell a lot more. Consider these three, all members of the Dow Jones industrial average: American Express (symbol AXP, $61) fell from $72; Boeing (BA, $131), from $149; and Citigroup (C, $42), from $55. They are up from the lows in February. But if you want to become an owner of three great companies for the long haul, seize the day. (All returns, prices and related figures are as of March 28; investments in boldface are those I recommend.)
Energy: bottom of the barrel However, the declines of these Dow stocks pale in comparison to the devastation in the energy sector, as the price of oil crashed from more than $100 a barrel to about $26, before recovering to $32 in early February. SPDR S&P Oil & Gas Exploration & Production ETF (XOP), an exchange-traded fund, fell 29 percent in 2014, 36 percent in 2015, and 10 percent in the first five weeks of 2016. Meanwhile, prices for other commodities, from copper to wheat, have tumbled because of weakening demand in Asia and Europe. And Chinese stocks are down by nearly half since June because of concerns about slowing growth in the world’s second-largest economy. Opportunities abound today, but so do risks. The old Wall Street warning about
not trying to catch a falling knife exists for a reason. When United States Oil (USO), a security that reflects the price of West Texas Intermediate crude, fell by more than half from July 2014 to December 2014, it looked like a bargain — only to drop by half again by January 2016. Similarly, Wynn Resorts (WYNN, $93), a casino company that has traditionally benefited from the management skill of its eponymous founder and CEO, Steve Wynn, sank from $219 a share in July 2014 to $96 a year later. Good entry point? Maybe not. Mistakes, such as buying Wynn in the second half of 2014, will happen. But you will rarely triple or quadruple your investment by purchasing a stock when everyone is lusting for it. Here are four tips on how to buy low — or at least try to.
into a stock or mutual fund each month or quarter or year. If you invest $1,000 a month and the stock you love trades at $100, you’ll add 10 shares to your portfolio. If the stock plummets to $83 the next month, your $1,000 will fetch 12 shares. Instead of feeling as if you’re losing wealth, you’ll feel as if you’re gaining it. Make a wish list. Write down a few companies you would be thrilled to own at lower prices. Among stocks that aren’t quite cheap enough now but may be soon are ExxonMobil (XOM, $84), Lululemon Athletica (LULU, $61) and Starbucks (SBUX, $59).
Don’t be shortsighted Capitalize on the myopia of your fellow
See BUY LOW, page 35
Buy what you love Think of buying a stock as becoming a minority partner in the business. When the price falls, you can acquire a bigger stake in the business for less. But you have to have confidence in the business itself. And it’s even better if you love it. Here’s an example. When I encountered Netflix (NFLX, $101), it was love at first sight. I liked the original idea of sending DVDs through the mail on a subscription basis. And it seemed clear to me from the start that as technology improved, Netflix had a good chance of becoming the leading video-delivery service. From last December 4 through February 4, Netflix shares plunged 31 percent, but bounced back up a bit by late March. They could fall another 30 percent. I don’t care. As long as the business remains sound and the company maintains its powerful competitive position, I want to own as much of Netflix as I can afford. I feel the same way about Whole Foods Market (WFM, $32), which has lost a little less than half of its value since February 2015. Avoid the psychological torment of falling share prices by engaging in dollarcost averaging. Put a set amount of money
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Going gluten-free? You may get a tax break By Rebecca Dolan You’ve likely seen your food costs go up if you’re among the one in five Americans making a lifestyle choice to avoid gluten — a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley — or the one in 100 Americans diagnosed with celiac disease, which prohibits gluten
intake. Restaurants often charge more for gluten-free pizza crust or pasta, for example. And at the grocery store, we found a Freschetta five-cheese medley pizza for $7.99, compared with the gluten-free version at $10.99. Likewise, a box of regular
Betty Crocker yellow cake mix costs $1.59, while the gluten-free version is $4.69. Did you know you might be eligible for a tax break to help offset some of those costs if you have celiac disease? The weight-loss area of the tax law offers guidance for restricted diets, said Mark Luscombe, principal federal tax analyst for Wolters Kluwer Tax & Accounting US. “That says if you are on a restricted diet for a particular disease, and if you have a doctor’s certification that you should be on such a diet, you can treat it as a medical expense,” he explained. IRS Information Letter 2011-0035 affirms the tax break: “...the excess cost of specially prepared foods designed to treat a medical condition over the cost of ordinary foods which would have been consumed but for the condition is an expense for medical care.”
Get a note from your doctor But claiming the tax break isn’t without hurdles. For starters, you must have certification from a doctor that you have a medically necessitated diet due to celiac disease, an autoimmune disorder in which the ingestion of gluten leads to damage in the small intestine, or a wheat allergy. Going gluten-free as a lifestyle choice isn’t going to cut it. Except with products such as xanthan gum and sorghum flour, for which there is no gluten-filled alternative, you’ll only be able to deduct the difference in cost between gluten-free food and “normal” food. Be sure to hold on to all of your receipts to keep track of your costs and support your deductions. Scribble the cost of the cheaper, gluten-filled alternatives on the back of your receipts.
You must itemize You can deduct medical expenses only if you itemize, and only to the extent they exceed 10 percent of your adjusted gross income (7.5 percent through 2016, if you’re older than 65). All of your eligible medical expenses can be combined to try to exceed that 10 percent threshold. If you have any other health considerations, check IRS Publication 502, Medical and Dental Expenses to see if they can also be written off. All contents © 2016 the Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
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Apr. 20+
D.C. RENTERS SEMINARS
The Office of the Tenant Advocate presents Renters 101, a seminar focusing on Washington, D.C. renters and their rights and responsibilities. Topics include leases, rent increases, rent control, evictions, housing code problems, reasonable accommodations and security deposits. There will be a session Wednesday, April 20 from 6 to 8 p.m. and Saturday, April 30 from noon to 2 p.m. at 2000 14th St. NW, Washington, D.C. For more information or to reserve a space, email delores.anderson@dc.gov or call (202) 719-6560.
Apr. 27
MS. SENIOR VA. PAGEANT ORIENTATION
The Ms. Virginia Senior America Pageant is offering a free orientation in Falls Church, Va. for residents, 60+ who are interested in competing in the pageant. Participants will learn the ins and outs of the competition. The winner will eventually go on to compete in the 2016 Ms. Senior America Pageant this fall in Atlantic City, N.J. For more information or to RSVP, contact Annmarie Pittman at (703) 549-7012 or ms.virginia.senior.america@gmail.co m by Friday, April 15.
WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — A P R I L 2 0 1 6
Buy low From page 33 through 2014. The company’s board of directors replaced the CEO, and the new leader made quick changes, including instituting an all-day breakfast. The stock began to recover in January 2015. Over the past year, it returned 32 percent. Today, Wynn Resorts epitomizes the concept of a faith-based stock. Steve Wynn is a perfectionist and an innovator. Right now, he’s having problems in Macau, a former Portuguese colony that is a specially administered part of China — and suffering from China’s current economic malaise. But Wynn will find a way to right his company, just as he did after the Great Recession, when the stock traded below $20. Energy stocks are probably the best example right now of good values caused by investors being shortsighted. Stocks in the sector are valued as if oil prices will never recover. The best strategy today is to invest in high-quality industry leaders that can withstand further adversity and will benefit as their competitors go broke. Consider Schlumberger (SLB, $73), the giant Paris-based energy-services company. Its price has fallen by more than 40 percent since mid 2014 as profits have declined. But Schlumberger’s balance sheet remains strong, and the company earns a
top rating of A++ for financial strength from the Value Line Investment Survey. Analysts, on average, see earnings decreasing this year, then rising by more than 80 percent over 2017 and 2018. Meanwhile, investors who have soured on China are missing a key trend: a shift toward more consumer spending. Among Chinese stocks, consider telecom provider China Mobile (CHL, $54), whose stock has fallen 27 percent since April 2015, and Concord Medical Services (CCM, $5), which runs a network of radiology centers in 56 cities around the country. The stock, which has a market value of only $220 million, has fallen by more than half over the past two years. Alert readers will remember that I recommended Concord in February 2015 at a higher price. Admonish me if you must, but remember the words of J.P. Morgan. When asked by a young elevator operator what the stock market would do, the great financier replied, “It will fluctuate, my boy. It will fluctuate.” James K. Glassman, a visiting fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, is the author, most recently, of Safety Net: The Strategy for De-Risking Your Investments in a Time of Turbulence. Of the stocks mentioned, he owns Netflix. © 2016, Kiplinger. All Rights Reserved. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Say you saw it in the Beacon | Law & Money
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A P R I L 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N
A good financial plan By Elliot Raphaelson Many people believe they need a financial adviser, but are unsure how to choose among the many firms and people who offer such services. These are the guidelines I recommend: Use a “fee-only” financial planner. He or she charges directly for establishing a plan and providing advice, and does not earn commissions from selling you financial products. You can find a fee-only planner through the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors (www.napfa.org) and the Garret Planning Network (www.garrettplanningnetwork.com). Verify credentials. Advisers who manage money must file an Investment Adviser Public Disclosure form with the Security and Exchange Commission (you can search an adviser’s record at AdviserInfo.sec.gov.) The form discloses educational background,
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fees, investment methods, whether they are truly fee-only, and whether there are any regulatory actions against the adviser. The form also lists credentials. Those with certified financial planner (CFP), chartered financial analyst (CFA) or chartered financial consultant (ChFC) credentials likely have a greater understanding of personal finance issues. Determine whether the adviser is held to a “fiduciary standard.” This means that he or she is required to act in your best interest. An adviser held to a “suitability standard” merely must recommend investments that are suitable — a much lower threshold — and may steer you to investments that earn him or her commissions you don’t necessarily know about. Verify the planner’s experience. You don’t want to hire a planner that does not have several years of experience. Ask for references from clients who have been with the adviser for more than a few years. Discuss the planner’s investment philosophy, which should be consistent with your own. For example, if you are a conservative investor, you should not hire a very aggressive planner who tries to time the market and turns over clients’ portfolios frequently. A responsible planner will spend a great deal of time discussing your investment objectives. If he or she doesn’t, look for a different planner. Understand your total costs. Are you looking for continuous annual portfolio management? Or do you want only an initial plan prepared, and prefer to use the planner as needed on an hourly basis in the future? Check for complaints. If the planner is licensed with FINRA, you can go to the BrokerCheck database at FINRA.org to determine whether any complaints have been made.
Keeping costs down Readers sometimes ask if they have to pay a fee of 1 percent of their assets to an adviser to obtain advice. Some major financial firms offer advice that is less expensive. For example Vanguard, with whom I have invested successfully for more than 20 years, now offers an advisory service that costs 0.3 percent per year. (Minimum asset size is $50,000.) Other low-cost advisers operate online. Some charge a percentage of your assets and/or monthly fees. The annual fees often amount to less than 1 percent of your assets, but the services offered are typically less extensive than with fee-based financial planners. If you only need investment advice, consider investing primarily in target funds consistent with your age, managed by a reputable low-cost company. This gives you a diversified portfolio without the need to pay additional fees to an adviser. Elliot Raphaelson welcomes your questions and comments at elliotraph@gmail.com. © 2016 Elliot Raphaelson. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — A P R I L 2 0 1 6
Say you saw it in the Beacon
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Leisure &
Maritime Nova Scotia retains vestiges of Scottish, English and French settlers. See story on page 38.
Cruises: big new ships, submarine trips
Voluntourism in Cuba Fathom, a new brand from Carnival Corp., offers “voluntourism” trips to the Dominican Republic in April and to Cuba in May. Passen-
gers will work with locals on everything from learning English to reforestation, while immersing themselves in the culture. New from Celebrity Cruises: Passengers on certain sailings in the Caribbean and Europe are participating in the Chef Market Discoveries program, in which they shop with chefs in local markets for ingredients used in the meals they’ll eat onboard that night. New from Princess Cruises: Chocolate Journeys with chocolate-infused menus and other treats designed by chocolatier Norman Love, plus menus by celebrity chef Curtis Stone, on-deck stargazing in a partnership with Discovery Channel, and a magic show and musical revue, “Magic to Do,” with music by Broadway composer Stephen Schwartz of Wicked and Godspell fame. Disney Cruise Line features a “Star Wars” day on each of eight Disney Fantasy ship sailings in the Western Caribbean beginning this month, with “Star Wars” characters, activities and themed celebrations. In June, the Disney Magic ship will sail its first British Isles itinerary, to Scotland, England and Ireland.
PHOTO COURTESY OF VIKING
By Beth J. Harpaz Underwater sightseeing in a glass submarine, shopping with a chef for dinner ingredients, and volunteering with locals: These are some of the new options this season for cruise passengers. This year, Royal Caribbean launches the world’s largest cruise ship, and a new ship from Carnival features a biking track suspended high above the water. And for cruisers with deep pockets, luxuries range from round-the-clock personal assistants to long-term leases for residences at sea. Crystal Cruises has just launched Crystal Esprit, a 62-guest yacht that offers among its excursions a ride in a submersible vessel. The underwater excursions take place near the Seychelles islands in winter and on the Adriatic Coast in spring and summer. The glass capsule holds two people and a captain. Thirty-minute rides are $599 per person. Later this year, Crystal launches a yacht for river cruising in Europe, Crystal Mozart, with four more river yachts in 2017. Crystal is also getting into the airplane business with charter flights on four jets connecting to trips by ship and on land. And later this year Crystal launches residences at sea, with long-term leases for staterooms on three new ocean vessels, prices to be determined.
Biggest ship in the world In June, Royal Caribbean launches what will be the world’s largest ship, Harmony of the Seas, with a capacity of 5,479 passengers. Harmony will feature the “neighborhood” areas already found on other Royal Caribbean ships, including Central Park PHOTO COURTESY OF ROYAL CARIBBEAN
In June, Royal Caribbean will launch the world’s biggest cruise ship, Harmony of the Seas, with a capacity of 5,479 passengers. The ship will boast numerous water slides, a surfing ride and a zip line.
The Viking cruise line, best known for river cruises, began offering ocean cruises on the Viking Star last year. The ship is shown at its christening in Bergen, Norway.
and Boardwalk. Harmony will also have robot bartenders, a mini-golf course, surfing on a FlowRider machine, waterslides, a zip line and, for guests who need their every whim catered to, round-the-clock personal assistants called Royal Genies. Another new Royal Caribbean ship, Ovation of the Seas, debuts in April, designed primarily for service in China.
Over-the-top attractions Carnival Cruise Line launches its largest ship in May, Carnival Vista, which can carry 3,954 people based on two per cabin. Vista’s showcase attraction, SkyRide, lets guests cycle on bikes suspended from an 800-foot long track, 20 feet above the top deck and 150 feet above the water. Vista will also have an onboard brewery and a 455-foot-long tube slide. Holland America Line, celebrating its 142nd anniversary this month, debuts the Koningsdam, with staterooms for families and for singles; a theater with two-storyhigh LED screens, and music options ranging from B.B. King’s Blues Club to nightly chamber music. HAL is also collaborating with a travel planning service called Utrip so guests can go online and create customized shore itineraries. Norwegian Cruise Line’s newest ship,
Escape, debuted in the fall of 2015 with an urban craft beer hall, Mondavi wine bar, a Margaritaville and a tapas bar. Norwegian is also introducing a new “Free at Sea” promotion inviting guests to pick a free amenity from four options: a beverage package, specialty dining package, excursion credits or WiFi package. Regent Seven Seas Explorer launches in July with the $10,000-a-night super-luxurious Regent Suite, complete with private spa and grand piano. Despite the price tag, the suite is already sold out for its entire first season. Viking, once known just for river cruises, is launching the second of its oceangoing ships, Viking Sea, in April. A sister ship, Viking Star, launched last year. Seabourn expects its first new ship in five years, Seabourn Encore, to be delivered in December for a January 2017 launch. The ship will have all-suite staterooms and a Thomas Keller restaurant. And Cunard is renovating the Queen Mary 2, adding staterooms for solo travelers and expanding the number of onboard kennels where guests are permitted to keep their dogs. The QM2 will be out of service for the redo from May 27 to June 21. Looking ahead to 2017, the Queen Victoria will become the largest ship to ever navigate the Amazon, on Cunard’s first voyage to that part of the world. — AP
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A P R I L 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N
Nova Scotia’s maritime mélange of cultures
4,000-year history What now is Nova Scotia was first inhabited by the Abnaki and Mi’kmaq people, Native Americans who were part of the Algonquian language family. The first recorded exploration in 1497 by a European, John Cabot of England, was followed by efforts to establish colonies by
French explorers, and later by settlers from Scotland. The 17th and early 18th centuries were marked by armed conflict between England and France over control of the territory, which finally reverted to Great Britain. Nova Scotia became part of the Dominion of Canada in 1867. The cultural influences imparted by English and French settlers were just the beginning. Other people also arrived, stayed and left their imprint. Vestiges of their differing lifestyles invite visitors to relive times past, and immerse themselves in the unique mixture of traditions. The narrative begins with the 4,000year history of the Mi’kmaq First Nation people. Some of their ancestors still live in and around the village of Bear River. Their story is told in depth at Kejimkujik National Park and Historic Site. Periodic drumming demonstrations and birch bark canoe building activities help visitors get a taste of life back when. You can also hike ancient paths, viewing the petroglyph rock carvings they left behind, drop by former encampment areas, and paddle along Mi’kmaq canoe routes. The cultural alphabet soup that poured into the region from Europe began when French explorers established a settlement in 1605, which they called Acadia. In 1621, King James of England and
PHOTO © GARY YIM
By Victor Block There are plenty of reasons to visit Nova Scotia (Latin for “new Scotland”) — one of the three Maritime Provinces of eastern Canada. Many people head for Cape Breton island in the northeastern corner of the province. They may take the famous Cabot Trail roadway, which winds along the island’s rugged Atlantic coastline — reason enough to head to that portion of Nova Scotia, But rather than follow those crowds during a recent visit, my wife Fyllis and I set our sights on the southern part of the territory to see what it has to offer. We found an enticing combination of Mother Nature at her best, fascinating history and an intriguing mix of cultures. You’re never more than 35 miles from the sea, and the shoreline is pocked by inlets and bays that are overlooked by tiny fishing villages. The interior changes from forests to low hills to lake settings, while the inviting Annapolis Valley is blanketed by scenic farms.
Visitors are never more than 35 miles away from Nova Scotia’s picturesque coastline. The town of Lunenburg sits on the Canadian province’s south shore and was established by the British in 1753.
Scotland granted territory to establish the area he named Nova Scotia. The region then became the flashpoint for more than a century of conflict over all of present-day Canada between the French and British.
Later, settlers from Germany and other German-speaking European countries arrived along with their surnames, holiday See NOVA SCOTIA, page 39
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WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — A P R I L 2 0 1 6
Nova Scotia From page 38 celebrations and lifestyle. Also adding to the mosaic were people who lived in the American colonies but who remained loyal to the British Crown. Forced to leave during the Revolution because of their sympathies, many fled to the future Canada, where they were greeted as United Empire Loyalists. Among them were Black Loyalists who had fought against the British and whose descendants still reside in several communities in Nova Scotia. A center of Acadian culture is found in villages strung out along the shore of St. Mary’s Bay. There, French is the predominant language, bilingual signs guide visitors, and Acadian flags adorn many hous-
es. Restaurants serve food that would be at home in Paris. At the Historic Village in West Pubnico, costumed interpreters provide an in-depth introduction to the area and its many stories. There are also opportunities to experience traditional Scottish singing, fiddling and step dancing. During the Antigonish Highland Games, which have taken place each year since 1863, burly men wearing kilts compete at tossing the spruce log “caber,” hammer throw and other heavyweight events.
Scenic drives and tides If you choose to drive through Nova Scotia, many itineraries are available for those wishing to explore a particular interest. For example, the Lighthouse Route hugs the southeastern shoreline, gentle in some places and rugged in others, and
BEACON BITS
Apr. 24
DOG FESTIVAL
The Montgomery County Humane Society and the City of Gaithersburg presents Paws in the Park Dog Walk & Fest on Sunday, April 24 at Bohrer Park at Summit Hall Farm from noon to 4 p.m. The event features a 1K dog walk at 2 p.m. and a variety of activities for children, including a moon bounce, contests and other activities for dogs and their owners. There will also be contests for pet-owner look-alike, best doggie trick, best dog kisser, and a ”musical sit” competition. Bohrer Park is located at 506 S. Frederick Ave, Gaithersburg, Md. Advance registration will take place through 5 p.m. Saturday, April 23 and costs $20 for an individual and $45 for a family. Gate admission costs $25 for one and $55 for a family. For more information or to register, visit www.firstgiving.com/mchsmd.
Apr. 14
LUNCHEON FOR WIDOWS AND WIDOWERS
Sibley Memorial Hospital presents its annual Widowed Persons meeting on Thursday, April 14 at noon at Fox Hill, 8300 Burdette Rd., Bethesda, Md. Members, advisers and widowed persons will meet, share experience and have lunch. The group will also elect its new officers. Advance registration is required, and a donation of $15 is suggested. For more information or to register, call Sibley at (202) 364-7602.
Say you saw it in the Beacon | Leisure & Travel
leads past picturesque fishing villages. The Aboriginal Road Trip leads to museums and natural settings associated with the Mi’kmaq First Nation people. Another drive, which is focused on seafood, includes opportunities to meet local fishermen, haul in lobster traps and learn to shuck oysters. The most famous scenic route is the Evangeline Trail, which snakes along the western coast of Nova Scotia and passes through not only varied landscapes but also some of North America’s earliest European history. It leads past forts and fishing villages, through the scenic farmlands of the Annapolis Valley, and by the Bay of Fundy, which is famous for having the highest tides in the world (they have been recorded to rise as much as 54 feet).
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Adventurous souls may opt for a unique tidal bore rafting experience, riding a crest of water created when the incoming tide battles against the river outflow to generate 13-foot-high waves. Fyllis and I opted to observe the tidal phenomenon in a more sedate way in the town of Digby. Our anticipation was whetted by a clock in town center that indicates the time of the next high tide, and by establishments with names like Rising Tide Café and Changing Tides Diner. We watched boats that rested at pier level during high tide descend to well below the dock as the water drained out of the bay. Then we saw local residents venturing out on the exposed mud flats to gather clams for that evening’s dinner. See NOVA SCOTIA, page 41
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A P R I L 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N
‘Best value’ countries and cities in Europe Among European countries, you get the most value for your money in the Czech Republic. And the worst value is Denmark. At least that’s what a recent study from Hotel Info (www.hotel.info) suggests. The top value city is Prague, and the worst is Rio. Normally, I’m not big on studies that steer you to “low-cost” or “high-value” destinations. After all, if you chose a destination on the basis of lowest total cost, you’d probably head for places in mid-America such as Little Rock or Albuquerque. But Europe is a little different: Its major cities all offer a wide range of interesting places to visit, things to do and food to enjoy. The euro is well below levels of the past several years. So if you’re thinking
about a trip across the Atlantic in 2016, you might want to work relative costs into your consideration. Hotel Info’s release doesn’t go into much methodology, but the scores for “best value for the money” are based on a combination of rates and consumer evaluations, as posted on its website.
The best and worst Best value countries: With a value score of 8.13 on a scale of 10, the Czech Republic tops the list, but Portugal (8.09), Poland (8.02), and Hungary (7.92) are close, and Austria (7.86) is only a bit lower. Worst value countries: That Denmark (6.37) and Norway (6.59) are at the bottom
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of the list shouldn’t surprise anyone, nor enna, and I’ve been pleasantly surprised at should the UK and Belgium (6.92) and the number of four-star and better hotels Russia (6.96). that are available for less than Best value cities: Prague $125 per night. Of course, (8.2) scores well above the even in low-cost cities, the next best, Lisbon, Warsaw, very famous spots still charge and Berlin, closely grouped at a lot more than hotels only a 8.01-8.04. Bangkok and Vienfew ranks below that top level. na are also close, at 7.87-7.89, Handling as are Madrid and Shanghai high-cost areas (7.63-7.65), followed by Helsinki, Rome, and Tokyo. I Conversely, if you’re heading for a high-cost city, conwould never have expected to TRAVEL TIPS sider going down-market a see Tokyo anywhere else but By Ed Perkins star or two. That’s what I do in near the bottom in any scoring based on cost of visiting, but that’s what London, for example. On a projected trip for later in 2016, I’m Hotel Info found. Worst value cities: From the worst up, looking at a Travelodge as a possible spot the scores range from a low of 6.28 at Rio to hang out for a few days. Yes, it’s a “budde Janeiro through New York City, Copen- get” chain, but I’ve stayed at several over hagen, Amsterdam, Moscow, London, Syd- the years and always find them more than ney, Oslo, Singapore, Paris, Stockholm, to adequate. Another advantage of going Bern at 6.86, with minor score increments. down-market is that these hotels typically Except from finding Helsinki, Rome and charge a lot less for breakfast. And speaking of breakfast, depending Tokyo on any sort of “value” list, the scores contain few surprises. Scandinavia, New York on local customs, hotels in many European and London have well deserved reputations cities no longer include “free” breakfast. In as expensive destinations — even when you those places, look for a “bed and breakfast” package: I found a good one in Vienna. offset costs by the “value” they offer. Don’t let low costs lure you someplace If you’ve already decided which countries and cities you want to visit, these you don’t really care about, and don’t let scores can give you some guidance as to high costs steer you away from a place you how to cope with the local cost structure. A really want to see. Instead, adjust to the low-cost city or country gives you an oppor- costs, and enjoy. Send e-mail to Ed Perkins at eperkins@ tunity to splurge — and maybe target hotels mind.net. one or two stars above your usual range. © 2016 Tribune Content Agency, LLC. As I write this, I’m planning a trip to Vi-
BEACON BITS
June. 23 Monday, May 2 – 6:30pm Imagination Stage, Bethesda County Executive Ike Leggett will recognize those whose accomplishments and lifelong commitment to volunteer service make them outstanding role models for young and old alike in Montgomery County. 2016 NEAL POTTER PATH of ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS
Gene Counihan
The Laurel Senior Friendship Club presents a bus trip to Annapolis for a lighthouse bay cruise on Thursday, June 23. The bus will depart at 9:15 a.m. and return at 3:30 p.m. from the Laurel Regional Hospital employee parking lot, located at 7300 Van Dusen Rd, Laurel, Md. The cost is $90 per person (due at sign-up) and includes motorcoach transportation, lunch, cruise, tax and gratuity. For more information, call (301) 206-3380.
Apr. 20
Registration is required for this FREE event go to www.montgomeryserves.org or call 240-777-2600
RICHMOND GARDEN TRIP
Green Spring Gardens presents a bus trip to visit the Lewis Ginter Botanic Garden in Richmond, Va. on Wednesday, April 20. The garden will feature its spring display, and participants can tour the Japanese garden, bog garden and conservatory. Also enjoy a buffet lunch, a garden talk on summer bulbs, and shopping at the gift shop. The bus will depart from Green Spring, located at 4603 Green Spring Rd., Alexandria, Va., at 10:15 a.m. and will return at 6 p.m. The cost is $109, which includes motorcoach, admission, gardening talk and lunch. For more information or to register, visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/greenspring and use code 290 291 4001 or call (703) 642-5173.
Sarah Gotbaum
The evening’s honorees include winners of the Roscoe R. Nix Distinguished Community Leadership Awards and the Montgomery Serves Awards
LIGHTHOUSE CRUISE ON THE BAY
Apr. 30
SENIOR HOUSING SEMINAR
Caring Considerations presents a housing seminar on Saturday, April 30 from 10 a.m. to noon. This seminar will help you determine how to remain in control and be independent, how to plan for the future and find solutions to your current situation, and the options you have for housing. This event will take place in room 302 of St. Matthews United Methodist Church, located at 8617 Little River Turnpike, Annandale, Va. For more information or to register, call 1-571-437-9396 or email info@caringconsiderations.com.
Say you saw it in the Beacon | Leisure & Travel
WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — A P R I L 2 0 1 6
Nova Scotia From page 39 By the way, clams, along with lobster and a variety of seafood, make Nova Scotia the leading fishing province in Canada. But Digby is best known for another mollusk. It lays claim to the title “scallop capital of the world” because it is home to a large scallop fishing fleet, and their haul has a reputation for outstanding flavor.
Waterfront towns Yarmouth, another town in the southern reaches of Nova Scotia, long has been associated with fishing. A walking tour leads past a number of the nearly 200 elaborate homes that were built in a variety of styles by ship owners and captains during the late 19th century, when the town’s prosperity reached its peak. A stroll through Shelburne’s Waterfront Heritage District transports visitors back to the late 18th century. That’s when an influx of Loyalists from the former American British colonies arrived. Some of the homes they built still stand, and a display at the Shelburne County Museum invites children to “Dress up like a Loyalist.” If you can find time to spend a day to stroll through Annapolis Royal, do it. The area is where the French established the first permanent European settlement here in 1604. The colony changed hands a number of times as the French and English bat-
tled for control. After a decisive victory by England in 1710, it was named Annapolis Royal in honor of Queen Anne. St. George Street, which runs through the middle of town, is lined by buildings built over the course of three centuries. Among the oldest are a wooden house constructed in 1708 by a French officer, and the 1710 home of a silversmith, which later served as an inn and today houses a small museum. Fort Anne in Annapolis Royal occupies one of the most hotly contested pieces of land in North America. The first fort was erected on the site in 1629 by the Scots, and several forts were constructed later by the French. The fortress that stands today was built by the British. Visitors may walk the earthen walls that date back to 1702, explore a gunpowder magazine, and check out the British field officers quarters, which house an interesting museum. A very different setting is encountered nearby at the impressive Annapolis Royal Historic Gardens. It features areas devoted to Mi’kmaq, early Acadian and 17th century English gardening practices and designs. A replica of a 17th-century Acadian home overlooks salt marshes and the dykes that were constructed by farmers to transform them into arable land. It offers a peek back at the lives of French-speaking settlers — one among the many stories that bring the history of Nova Scotia to life.
If you go Digby Pines Golf Resort & Spa combines an aura of history with a strong record of ecotourism. Low-level electricity is used throughout the hotel with an emphasis on natural light, the kitchen recycles to such a degree that nothing goes to a landfill, there’s a green roof atop the spa, and the rooms’ headboards are made from recycled doors. In cabins with fireplaces, compressed sawdust replaces wood because it has a zero percent carbon footprint. The resort is open from mid-May to mid-October. Rates begin at $159 (depending upon the exchange rate at the time). For more information, call (800) 667-4637 or log onto digbypines.ca. An inviting budget-stretching alternative is Hedley House by the Sea, which overlooks Smith Cove from a four-acre setting
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of lawns and gardens. The 14-room motel is blanketed by fresh flowers. Rates begin at $71. For more information, call (877) 826-2500 or log onto hedleyhouse.ca. Not surprisingly, many a restaurant menu includes Digby scallops in some form. Among ways I saw them prepared were pan seared, fried, grilled, encased in prosciutto, wrapped in bacon, on pizza, in salad and swimming in chowder. Electing to eat something other than scallops during two dinners at the appropriately named Dockside Restaurant in Digby, I opted for grilled haddock ($14 with sides) and fish and chips ($9), both excellent. For more information, call (902) 245-4950 or log onto fundyrestaurant.com. For information about visiting Nova Scotia, call 1-800-565-0000 or log onto novascotia.com.
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A P R I L 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N
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Arts &
Sam Waterston, star of “Law and Order” and “Grace and Frankie,” discusses his long acting career. See story on page 45.
Radiant performances in 110 in the Shade best version remains the film, bereft, perhaps of song, but brought to vital, pulsating life by Hepburn and Lancaster.
Hackneyed storyline? That last statement may be surprising, based on Lancaster’s view of the material. This is what Joseph Anthony, who directed both the Broadway production and the film, said about him: “He told me, ‘This play is a bunch of crap. The writer doesn’t know anything about country life, or what it means to be in a drought, with the cattle starving.’ I told him the drought was just a symbol of Lizzie’s parched soul, but he dismissed the idea out of hand... He was not much fun to work with.” Maybe he wasn’t “much fun.” But he was correct. The story is vapid, with stereotypical characters and a story that plods from one easy-to-see-coming development to the next. It’s possible that Lancaster’s disdain for the material triggered an angry performance that blended physical magnetism with undefined menace. And then there’s Hepburn, who doesn’t even try to capture the essence of a Texas
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By Michael Toscano If you’re a regular theatergoer and movie-watcher, you have probably seen 110 in the Shade long before its current incarnation at Ford’s Theatre, onstage now through May 14. In fact, you have likely seen more than one of its many versions. It began as a TV play in 1953, before writer N. Richard Nash took it to Broadway the following year. He gives us the story of Lizzie, approaching spinsterhood on a family ranch in drought-parched Texas during the early 1950s. A charming, silver-tongued stranger shows up and promises to deliver rain. He also brings with him the promise (or is it a threat?) to rehydrate Lizzie’s withered romantic life and sense of herself. This straight play version was called The Rainmaker, and it was turned into a Hollywood film starring Katharine Hepburn (earning her an Oscar nomination) and Burt Lancaster in 1956. Nash then collaborated with Tom Jones (lyrics) and Harvey Schmidt (music) for a musical version that hit Broadway in 1963, and again in 2007. There was even another TV version about 25 years ago. But the
Starbuck, played by Ben Crawford, brings the promise of rain to a parched Texas town in Ford Theatre’s production of the musical 110 in the Shade. The show is on stage through May 11.
rancher. She does her own thing, retains her brittle New England accent and reserve, and is simply luminous, playing off Lancaster with perfect calibration. But back to the musical. A musical can
depend on songs to carry us through. And this one earned the 1964 Tony Award for best original score. So some people really See 110 IN THE SHADE, page 44
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Arts & Style | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com
110 in the Shade From page 43 like it. My view is that it has a so-so score with a couple of songs that make sitting through the rest of it less than a chore.
Some fine acting So now, Ford’s. The good news first: Tracy Lynn Olivera as Lizzie. Long one of the area’s top musical performers, with outstanding work on most of the main stages here, she brings us an indelible Lizzie that seems her own creation. She’s radiant, multi-dimensional, and a joy to listen to. Olivera bridges the gaps between Lizzie’s rather intense vulnerabilities and her ultimate strength. She does so with so much skill you can’t even sense the seams. This Lizzie is thoroughly modern, and she is not so much insecure as realistic (in her
eyes) about her appeal to men. There is also fine work from Kevin McAllister as File, the emotionally-repressed local lawman for whom Lizzie has designs, actively encouraged by her rowdy brothers (Gregory Maheu, Stephen Gregory Smith) and her steady, loving father (Christopher Bloch). McAllister’s work radiates the sense that there’s an emotional cauldron bubbling away beneath the bland, controlled exterior. That explains Lizzie’s interest and holds ours. McAllister also possesses a powerful voice that he gets to fully use. And that enchants the audience in a couple of songs. The bad news now comes in the form of a question: What the heck was director Marcia Milgrom Dodge thinking? She is capable of transcendent work. Her 2009 production of Ragtime at the Kennedy Center was electrifying, and it went on to
A P R I L 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N
Broadway, earning her a Tony Award nomination. But here it is as if she couldn’t decide what to do with this show and just threw a few things at the wall to see what sticks. The first act is listless and flat, the pacing uneven. Her choreography looks like every high-school production of Oklahoma! you have ever seen. You know, all thumbs in belt loops and kicking’ and stompin’ those cowboy-booted heels, yee-hah. She finally pulls it together in act two, with much better energy and less shuffling. And she allows her lead actors to shine above the material, giving in to the songs. But her real mistake is what she has made leading man Ben Crawford do as Starbuck, the con man who promises rain and romance. He may be a darkly handsome devil, but you feel sorry for him as he prances around, rolling his eyes and looking like former Texas Governor Rick Perry channeling Truman Capote. The next minute he’s Cary Grant. Oops…Truman’s back. It’s not pretty. This foppish Starbuck is mixed-up, but mostly a decaf latte, up against Olivera’s bracing double-shot of espresso. Crawford is unable to make us understand why Starbuck is able to captivate the level-headed Lizzie as he careens between effeminate, flamboyant posturing and quiet moments of potent conviction and self-assurance. I miss the hint of menace in Starbuck, the questions he can provoke. Christopher Bloch’s work is a salve, his steady presence as rancher H.L. Curry a ballast that provides some welcome reality.
Likable music Now, the music. The first couple of songs are typical examples from the period, what a couple of Broadway writers think is hoedown music from cowboy country. Song number three, however, “Lover, Don’t Turn,” sounds like it’s from a different show. It’s a show tune, its clean lines a nice showcase for Oliver’s clear, expressive voice. Crawford shows us what he’s capable of when not hampered by misdirection as he gins up some first-act energy in “Rain Song,” a number that wakes up the company and the eight-piece orchestra.
Bloch’s paternal H.C. leads us to the song “Raunchy,” where he helps Oliver show us her country-queen chops in a blast of honky-tonk. Our toes finally get to tappin’. “A Man and a Woman,” is not the famous song from the French film of that name back in the 1960s. But it is a mildly pretty ballad nicely handled by McAllister and Olivera. At the end of Act One, Olivera brings down the house as Lizzie’s hellish vision of life as an “old maid” goes positively operatic. Olivera’s range is clearly demonstrated when she moves on to “Simple Little Things” in act two. This is a contemporarysounding, Sondheim-esque number that has some clear poignancy. Her introspective work here clears the way for moments that follow with Starbuck. In the second half of the show, the director allows the shtick to be more organic, and the entire effort seems less dated. Thus, dialogue like this has impact: Lizzie: It’s no good to live in your dreams. Starbuck: It’s no good to live outside them, either. Regarding 110 in the Shade, let’s put it this way: It’s not the heat, it’s the validity. 110 in the Shade continues through May 14 at Ford’s Theatre, 511 10th St. NW, Washington, D.C. Showtimes: Mondays through Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. with matinees Fridays and Saturdays at 2 p.m. (except May 6 and 13 at noon). Additional weekday matinees are May 1 and 8 at 2 p.m. There will be audio-described performances on Tuesday, April 19 at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday, April 30 at 2 p.m. A sign-interpreted performance is scheduled for Thursday, April 28 at 7:30 p.m. and a captioned performance will occur Saturday, May 7 at 2 p.m. Tickets are available at www.fords.org and Ticketmaster: (800) 982-2787. Prices range from $22 to $71. (Ticketmaster fees may apply.) Discounted matinee tickets in the orchestra section are available to those 60 or older for $34 (weekend) or $31 (weekday). Ford’s Theatre is accessible to persons with disabilities, offering wheelchair-accessible seating and restrooms, and audio enhancement. For more information, visit www.fords.org or call the box office at (202) 347-4833.
BEACON BITS
April
COOKING CASTING CALL The Food Network is holding a casting for “Clash of the
Grandmas,” an upcoming cooking competition series. Each episode will feature four “Grandmas,” who will compete to win cash prizes. Personality and cooking skills (entrees and desserts) are a must. Interested participants should send an email to grandmothercasting@leg-corp.com with their location (city, state) in the subject line and include your name (or nominee’s name); contact information; occupation; location; description of cooking experience, cooking style, favorite dishes; reason why you (or nominee) should be featured; and photos (photos with kids and/or grandkids are a plus). The deadline for application is May 6, but early application is encouraged.
Say you saw it in the Beacon | Arts & Style
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Sam Waterston’s still busy 60-year career
“Law and Order” star Waterston may be best recognized for his character Jack McCoy — the charis-
matic district attorney on the long-running TV show “Law and Order.” He won both Golden Globe and Screen Actors Guild awards for his work on that show. While he enjoyed the role, he said when the show ended in 2010 — after 16 years and more than 360 episodes — he was ready for new challenges. He found them in HBO’s “The Newsroom” a few years later, and currently in Netflix’s “Grace and Frankie,” in which he plays the husband of Grace (Jane Fonda). In the show, Grace and Frankie (played by Lily Tomlin) deal with the emotional toll as their husbands reveal they are gay and leave their wives for each other. “The company of Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin and Martin Sheen is really unbeatable, and since it’s a comedy, we just laugh all day,” Waterston said. “It’s pure delight, and I love [my character] Sol. Waterston is happy to see a show where older actors are front and center, and said he thinks that as the population ages, there will be increasing room in movies and television for older characters. “There’s a large population of people interested in seeing someone their own age,” he said. Waterston said he hasn’t noticed a dearth of parts for himself as he’s gotten older. “I’ve been awfully darn lucky.
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“I guess there isn’t really any time limit on acting. As long as you can walk and talk, you can keep on acting if people will have you. And people have been asking me to work, so it’s been great,” he said.
All in the family In fact, people have been asking him to work for more than 60 years. Waterston, born in Cambridge, Mass., got his start as a child when his father, an amateur director at the school where he taught, asked him to be in a play. “I got to stay up late with my father without any of my siblings around to compete with for attention. I was sort of adopted by all the big hero guys in the school,” he recalled. “It seemed like an awful lot of fun. I was predisposed to becoming an actor, you might say.” And so were his four children, three of whom have followed him into the profession. (His son, Graham, has done some directing and producing.) “There’s always the problem of getting work in show business, and that’s what makes it such a tough profession,” he said. “Show business is a terrible profession. “But acting is soooooo much fun. I think [my kids] were pretty clear about that, and they made up their own minds. All three of them are very, very good, let me tell you.” Daughter Katherine was most recently in
PHOTO COURTESY OF SAM WATERSTON
By Barbara Ruben Actor Sam Waterston plays a nefarious lobbyist for the gun industry in the movie he’s now filming. And like the city of Toronto, which is filling in for the movie’s Washington, D.C. setting since filming is cheaper there, Waterston is also playing somewhat off-type. “I’m not a very nice guy,” Waterston says of his role in Miss Sloan, also starring Jessica Chastain and John Lithgow, and set to be released in 2017. “I don’t think he has too many principles at all.” But that doesn’t mean Waterston — who, when not on screen, works on such issues as campaign finance reform and refugee assistance — might not recognize a bit of himself in the role. “You go looking for pieces of yourself you can use in a new way for a character. I think that’s mostly what actors do. So there must be some of this in me,” Waterston, 75, told the Beacon in an interview about his long acting career as he took a break from working on the movie. Waterston will be here in the real Washington when he’s honored with the annual Productive Aging Award from the Jewish Council for the Aging in May.
Actor Sam Waterston, with a long career in Broadway, movies and television, currently stars in the Netflix comedy “Grace and Frankie.” He was in “Law and Order” for 16 years, and continues to be in demand as an actor.
the movie Steve Jobs. Daughter Elisabeth and her husband have both been in a number of films. And son James got his start in The Dead Poets Society, and has a guest role in numerous television programs.
Revered roles What are the roles that still resonate with Waterston? In 1993, he won a Golden Globe award for portraying a Southern district attorney at the dawn of the civil rights movement in See WATERSTON, page 47
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Tennis elbow, anyone? Not this 88-year-old Making it to the age of 88 is no small ac- routinely complain of joint pain and ligacomplishment. And once you’ve gotten ment disasters. Doesn’t he ache and moan there, you can be sure of two after every outing? things. Not ever, he told me. The reaOne: People will tell you son: He is careful to stretch very how great you look, even thoroughly before he plays. though you don’t. Any orthopedist, coach or Two: People will ask you trainer will tell you that this is what your secret is, so that they sound advice. But in the rushtoo can become 88 some fine rush world of 2016, who has day and be told how great they time to heed it? look, even though they won’t. If we youngsters make a tenOn a recent trip to Florida, HOW I SEE IT nis date, we rush onto the court I had dinner with an 88-year- By Bob Levey and begin hitting before our old who, I swear, really did you-left-your-lights-on chimes look good. But when I asked him what his have even stopped bonging. We “live-forever” creatures not only besecret is, I got a surprise. “Tennis,” he said. lieve that we’re indestructible. We believe “Tennis?” I asked. that tennis is to be played, not to be pre“Tennis,” he repeated. pared for. Mr. 88 plays every day, he told me. No, But when you’re a retired engineer, and he doesn’t play singles anymore because you live in Florida year round, neither “you have to make some concessions to weather nor work is a concern. So please old age.” But he’s making far fewer than tag along while Mr. 88 arrives at his local most people. club. Two sets of doubles a day keep the doc“The first thing I do is to bend over at tor away. Forehandedness is next to godli- the waist, grab my ankles and hold that poness. Volley round the flag, boys. Pick sition for two minutes,” he said. your cliché (and adapt it slightly). I have just tried that. I gave up in a blast This guy is living proof that a sport that of pain after 35 seconds. might seem to belong to vastly younger “The second thing I do is lie on my people can belong to 88-year-olds, too. back, straighten my legs and raise them Of course, I wasn’t convinced. As if I about six inches off the ground. I hold that were his mother, I asked how in the world position for about 45 seconds. Great for this could be safe. After all, I pointed out, the lower back and the quads.” tennis players who are 50 years younger I made it to 20 seconds on this one.
Waterston From page 45 “I’ll Fly Away,” which ran on PBS. “I went into that job thinking, ‘Television, how good can this be?’” said Waterston, who had primarily acted in movies and theater until that point. “And then I thought the show was really good. The reaction of people I met on the street and on airplanes and toll booths on highways — people of all ages and races, particularly people from the South, but not just people from the South — so many people felt that we were telling their story. It just goes to show you what TV can do.” Another stand-out role: Waterston was nominated for an Oscar for the 1984 film
The Killing Fields, in which he played an American journalist during the Khmer Rouge’s brutal regime in Cambodia. But as he thinks back, there was one year that might cap them all. “I had a wonderful year [1973-4] in which I did The Glass Menagerie, The Great Gatsby with Katharine Hepburn, and Much Ado About Nothing in Central Park and on Broadway. “And I met my wife. Maybe that’s the best memory of all.” Waterston will be honored by the JCA at its Productive Aging Award dinner on Sunday, May 15 from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. at the Bethesda North Marriott in Rockville, Md. For ticket information and additional details, call (301) 255-4231 or see www.AccessJCA.org/ 2016dinner.
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Obviously, this brings your calves and hamstrings into play. But mine decided they wanted to go out of play after, oh, 30 seconds or so. Finally, Mr. 88 begins to work on his elbows and shoulders — both frequent trouble spots for any racquet-sport athlete. “I rotate my shoulder 20 times in one direction, then 20 times in the other direction. For my elbows, I bring along a set of fivepound weights. I do 20 curls, both arms.” I didn’t try to do either of these. I was
too breathless from all that typing. By now, Mr. 88’s partner and two opponents have arrived. None of them do anything more than jog in place for a few seconds. Then they claim that they’re ready to play. Mr. 88 never lords his fitness routines over them. “But all three of them have had major shoulder surgeries in the last five years,” he told me. See BOB LEVEY, page 49
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2. Character played by the same actor in both the movie and TV versions of 1. Lines up evenly M*A*S*H 6. Inkling 3. Naturally blonde 10. Praiseful poems 4. Cut scenes from the movie 14. American Idol judge, with 5. Happy, for glad Simon and Paula 6. Chevrolet’s all-time best seller 15. Pathfinder destination 7. Slap on 16. Biathlon or triathlon 8. Sea eagle 17. Sundae supplement 9. Distrustingly 18. Rocker, circa 1975 10. Babe Ruth or Snow White 19. Funeral fire 11. Spa options 20. Regular Florida sunrise watcher 12. Neutral shade 23. Once before 13. Come across as 24. Soccer nothing 25. Agency for the Natl. Weather Service 21. On one of Santa’s lists 22. Like some dorms 26. Preschool 27. Usual alarm clock selections 32. Compressed lyon-ess 28. Gave two big thumbs up 33. In complete shock 29. Ram-ma 34. Date for Foghorn Leghorn 35. Barriers between coffee and doughnuts 30. “Hey; I think I saw a mouse” 31. Blood bank tellers (abbr.) 38. Wall : St. :: Madison : ___ 35. Was in front at the final turn 39. Sends a letter to Dear Abby 36. Gershwin’s investment, perhaps 40. Important time 37. Gradually over time 41. Rank partner 38. Barley brew 43. Pygmalion playwright, pronto 39. Cool cucumber connection 45. Soaps 41. Pacific archipelago 49. Mexican state, ___ California 42. John Lennon’s best-selling single 50. Self-importance 43. Tony Bennett singing partner, 51. Just the vowels in Charles Foster Lady ___ Kane’s final vow 44. Cheaply made films 54. Summer time 46. Hawk hooks 59. Annul 47. Flea market deal 60. Caucus state 48. Cars.com’s most affordable midsize 61. Polaroid residue sedan of 2015 62. Bellyache 52. Halloween hurler 63. Creator of Oscar and Felix 53. Computer operators 64. Dinner theater attendee 54. Say “we can still be friends” 65. Stops at the first drive-through window 55. Small buffalo 66. Result of colliding planes 56. Removed weeds 67. Bullfighters’ mementoes 57. Trunk ... bough ... branch ... ___ Down 58. Apple offering, since 1998 1. Barter
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Answer: When the race car driver kept losing, he -- HIT THE "SKIDS" Jumbles: IDIOM SNACK THIRTY MYSTIC
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Bob Levey From page 47
Say you saw it in the Beacon | Arts & Style
ONE BIG HAPPY By Rick Detorie
He has had none, and he expects to have none. As our dinner was ending, and we both were trying to avoid looking at the ice cream selections on the menu, Mr. 88 said he realizes he’s unusual. But his preparation routine is an extension of who he was during his professional career. “As an engineer, you never just jumped right in to any task. You prepared. You studied. You got yourself ready,” he said. “I think tennis is exactly the same.” Words to live by, whether you’re 88 or some fraction thereof. Bob Levey is a national award-winning columnist.
From the publisher From page 2 individual, and our collective, liberty, and would therefore have more patience for the seemingly slow pace of change and movement in our constitutional system. My fear is that the absence of such understanding among today’s voters is driving our country’s apparently growing taste for strong-fisted, “the-rules-be-damned” leadership. This is not really new. Many recent presidents have pushed the envelope of their executive powers. And, really, there’s nothing wrong with having a president who wants to exercise more control. That is, not as long as he or she can’t succeed. Our system expects each branch to jealously guard their powers and to seek more. But that’s exactly why we need three competing branches, so ambition counteracts ambition, keeping us free from a totalitarian system that — as we unfortunately see in far too much of the world — generates tremendous suffering and unfairness. So, in conclusion, I urge you to vote in the General Election on November 8 (and, if you’re a Maryland resident, in the upcoming Primary Election). Our selection of a new president, and of members of the national legislature, is both a right and a duty. And while we may well continue to find gridlock in Washington, remember that it’s designed that way to protect the freedoms we all hold so dear. One final point. Just as your vote counts, so does everything you say to your elected representatives. Take advantage of this,
and share your views via letter, email or phone call. They really don’t hear from their constituents all that often. So what they do hear makes a difference in how they think — or at least in what they understand their constituents want, which is important to them if they desire to get reelected. In America, power really rests in the people, and that means you.
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BUYING MILITARY MEMORABILIA WW2, WW1, Civil War uniforms, weapons, photos and items associated with US, German, Japanese or items of other Military History. DAVE, 240-4640958.
JUNK HAULING AND CLEANING R US – Serving Metropolitan Area with trash removal from garage, basement, yard, etc. Haul almost anything. Please call 1-855-321-2100.
HIGHEST CASH PAID FOR ANTIQUES, JEWELRY, ESTATES. I have been advertising in the Beacon for 20 years. Montgomery County resident – will travel to D.C., MD, VA. Buying following items: Furniture, art, jewelry, gold, sterling silver, old coins, vintage pocket and wrist watches, old tools, books, camera, military items – guns, rifles, knives, pocket knives, swords etc. Also buying: old toys, dolls, trains, comic books, photographs, autographs, musical instruments, guitars, violins, etc. Also old sports memorabilia and equipment – baseball, golf, football, fishing etc. Please call Tom at 240-4763441.
COMPUTER LESSONS – Personal Computer training at your home. Email, Internet, general computer use. Windows 10, Smartphone, tablet, digital cameras. Learn at your own pace with gentle & patient teacher. Troubleshooting & setup new computers. Since 1996. Senior Discount. Call David, 301-762-2570, COMPUTERTUTOR.
Events LINE DANCING CLASSES. In Wheaton, Silver Spring, Scotland. Some free, some paid. Reasonable r ates. Private lessons, parties. Certified instructor. For more information, call 301-3795937. YARD SALE BENEFITTING MAGAGNOSSE, Haiti School. Rent outdoor table, $20, by April 14 to sell your goods at St. Elizabeth’s Church, Rockville, MD. Event on April 30th. 301-881-1380.
For Sale/Rent: Real Estate
EMPLOYMENT & REAL ESTATE ADS: We will not knowingly or intentionally accept advertising in violation of federal, state, and local laws prohibiting discrimination based on race, color, national origin, sex, familial status or handicap in connection with employment or the sale or rental of real estate.
LEISURE WORLD® – $374,000. 2 BR+ Den, 2 FB “KK” model in “Overlook.” Huge enclosed balcony, open table space kitchen with passthrough to separate dining room, 1510 sq ft. Stan Moffson, Weichert, Realtors. 301-928-3463.
Caregivers
LEISURE WORLD® – $116,500. 1 BR 1 FB “A” in “Fairways.” New paint, upgraded carpet, walk-in shower, 5 yr old HVAC, 850 sq ft. Stan Moffson, Weichert, Realtors. 301-928-3463.
“A” HOME HEALTH CARE – Experienced nurses, CNA, GNA are available 24/7. Cooking, companionship, personal care, housekeeping, driving. Full/Part-time or live-in. Flat rate for live-in care. 15 years experience. 240-533-6599. I WILL CARE FOR YOUR LOVED ONES night/day. Own transportation. Good references. Lots of experience. 301-502-2258. RN/CASE MANAGER with 30 years of dementia and critical care experience wants to provide care for your loved one. Also willing to do private duty. Call 301-742-5770. CERTIFIED NURSING ASSISTANT – 24 years experience. Available days or nights. Excellent references. Call Babeth at 240-351-7295. ELDERLY CARE – FEMALE care provider, English speaking, with car. I cook, clean and take to all appointments. I’m experienced in caring for people with MS, Alzheimer’s and other health problems. Excellent references. 301-2757283. HYGIENE CARE, MEAL PREPARATION, Housekeeping, Errands, Appointments, Medication reminders, Companionship. I’m a loving, experienced, trusted caregiver available for FT/PT or Live-In care for a flat rate. Call 301-490-1146. CHEVY CHASE HOME CARE – reliable certified caregivers at time of illness, infirmity, loneliness. Personal assistance, ALL AGES, 4- to 24-hour shifts, homes, hospitals, nursing homes. MD, DC, No. VA. Tel.: 202-374-1240. www.ChChHomecare.com. CNA CAREGIVER AVAILABLE. Very experienced. Worked in homes, Assisted Living and Nursing and Rehab. Can work day or night or live-in. Caring and reliable. Please call or text, 301-540-0086. COMPASSIONATE CAREGIVER – Companion available now to care for your loved one. Kind, devoted, dependable and experienced with car and excellent references. Certified Mental Health Aide, Hospice and CPR. Please Call Sadie at 301-263-5695, kindly leave a message. ELDERLY CARE – I’m a hardworking female who is caring, trustworthy, humble and loving. Would like to care for your loved one. FT/PT work. Personal hygiene, companionship, meal preparation, housekeeping. Call 301-445-0767 or email raymoedward59@gmail.com. FAIRFAX, VIRGINIA CAREGIVER – Licensed Nursing Assistant and Medication Technician. Excellent references provided. Assistance with all personal and medical needs. Warm, kind, and gentle care. Excellent references provided. 703-727-5861.
LEISURE WORLD® – $274,900. 2BR, 2 FB + Garage “E” model in Villa Cortese, new paint and carpet, large enclosed balcony, 1340 sq ft. Stan Moffson, Weichert, Realtors. 301-928-3463.
LEISURE WORLD® – $139,000. 2 BR, 1FB 2HB “Berkeley” townhouse coop, new paint, new carpet, backs to open space. Stan Moffson, Weichert, Realtors. 301-928-3463. LOOKING TO TAKE THE LEAP? I’ll take you on a tour of the community, show you floor plans, discuss campus amenities, & offer how to best coordinate your move. I will set up an automated online search for you, preview units, and contact you to arrange a showing when there is a match. I also offer exceptional service selling your home. I’m a Seniors Specialist, Buyer Broker, Top 1% of Agents Nationwide, a nd a Leisure World resident! You can see my current listings in this issue. Contact me: 301-580-5556, SueHeyman@aol.com, www.SueHeyman.com, Weichert Realtors. NORTH POTOMAC VILLAGE CONDOMINIUM – $279,900. Price reduced by $10K! 62 y.o.+ community. Sunny, quiet/wooded, rear corner 2BR/2FB apt. in secure elevator building with underground garage parking. Updated kitchen appliances, carpeting. Balcony, gas cooking, heat. Handicap accessible. Conveniently located across from Kentlands. Nr. Seneca PT & Wellness Center. Michael Greenberg, Weichert, Realtors. 301-674-7928. SELL YOUR HOME FOR FULL PRICE. Commission as low as $990. Satisfaction guaranteed. Sell fast and save money. Free buyer assistance. Adam Ferguson, Fairfax Realty. 703727-5861.
For Sale CEMETERY SITES AT GEORGE WASHINGTON Memorial Gardens in Adelphi, MD. 2 sites at discount of $1,500 per site. Contact Mr. Harris, hsaaba@aol.com. Cell, 301-655-0606. 2 SALVADOR DALI woodblock prints from Dante’s Divine Comedy. Signed and framed. Asking $900 for the pair. Can email pictures if desired. Call Steve, 410-913-1653.
Health PAID STUDY: PARTICIPANTS NEEDED for “brain training” study at the University of Maryland, College Park. Seeking healthy adults ages 65-85 with normal hearing. If you qualify and enroll, you will earn $10-15/hr for ~12 hours of participation. For eligibility information, contact us at 301-405-8657, EffComLab@gmail.com, or go to http://ter.ps/BrainTrain
NEED HOUSE PAINTING? My name is Kevin Turcios, and I am a local branch manager of College Works Painting. I’d like to introduce you to our professional painter for your home. Financing is available. 1-5 year guarantees. Fully licensed and insured. Call now for a free estimate! 240464-9729 or visit us at www.collegeworks.com. MD# 79559. DC#4202150001000.
Miscellaneous THE GOLDEN NETWORK offers Jewish seniors and retirees a variety of engaging programs, including lectures, classes, one-on-one learning in person and by phone, concerts, singalongs and more! For more information and details about upcoming events, call 301-732-1773, email info@goldennetwork.org, or see goldennetwork.org.
Personal Services I PURCHASE GOLD AND SILVER JEWELRY and coins for my company Gold 4 Good. I will come to your home and provide a no-fee, noobl igation estimate. If you decide to sell, I will transport you to and from my shop in Silver Spring. Local references. Montgomery County license #2327. Call Bob, 240-938-9694. HOUSE CLEANING SERVICE – Looking to clean house. Good reference and experience. Please call Vio, 301-706-6317. MUSICAL MEMORIES. Engaging elders, cultural Wisdomkeepers. Fun singing activities. Independent and Assisted Living, and Memory Care. Experienced: Hebrew Home, Olney Assisted Living, many more. Dr. Yonina Foster, 301353-1814.
Wanted WE BUY JEWELRY, SILVER, GOLD, AND COSTUME. Coins, Paper Money Too. Watches, Clocks, Military Badges and Patches Old and New. Call Greg, 717-658-7954. OLD AND NEW, WE BUY STERLING SILVER FLATWARE, Tea Sets, Single Pieces of Silver, Large pieces of Silver Plate. Attic, Basement or Garage. Call Greg, 717-658-7954. You have something to SELL, we are looking to BUY. SELL YOUR GOLD AND SILVER JEWELRY and old coins. Licensed dealer in Silver Spring buys gold and silver. I will meet you at your home or bank, analyze your jewelry, or coins, and tell you how much I can pay if you should decide to sell. No fees or obligation. Call Bob, 240-938-9694. Gold 4 Good. 8431 Georgia Avenue, Silver Spring. License #2327. I have references. CASH FOR RECORDS, CDs, DVDs AND TAPES. Best price guaranteed. Free appraisals. All types of music, 33, 45, 78 & CDs. Call Steve 301-646-5403. Will make house calls. WANTED: OLDER VIOLINS, Guitars, Banjos, Mandolins, etc. Musician/collector will pay cash for older string instruments. Jack, 301- 2792158. VINTAGE ELECTRIC SLOTCARS and accessories (all scales) from the 1960s through 1970s including Aurora, Atlas, Tyco, Cox, K&B, Revell, Monogram, etc. Call Bill at 410-6157043. VINYL RECORDS WANTED from 1950 through 1985. Jazz, Rock-n-Roll, Soul, Rhythm & Blues, Reggae and Disco. 33 1/3 LPs, 45s or 78s, Larger collections of at least 100 items wanted. Please call John, 301-596-6201. COLLECTOR BUYING MILITARY ITEMS: Helmets, weapons, rifles, shot guns, knives, swords, bayonets, web gear, uniforms, etc. from all wars and countries. Large quantities are okay. Will pay top prices for my personal collection. Discreet consultations. Call Fred, 301-9100783.
CASH FOR ESTATE BUYOUTS, estate clean-outs, jewelry to furniture, one item or whole estate. Free Estimate, Will Travel. 301520-0755. CASH FOR JEWELRY: Buying jewelry, diamonds, gold, platinum, silver, watches, coins, flatware, etc. We make house calls. Ask for Tom. Call anytime 301-654-8678 or 301-654-0838. STAMP COLLECTIONS, AUTOGRAPHS purchased/appraised – U.S., worldwide, covers, paper memorabilia. Stamps are my specialty – highest price paid! Appraisals. Phone Alex, 301309-3622. Stampex1@gmail.com. FINE ANTIQUES, PAINTINGS AND QUALITY VINTAGE FURNISHINGS wanted by a serious, capable buyer. I am very well educated [law degree], knowledgeable [over 40 years in the antique business] and have the finances and wherewithal to handle virtually any situation. If you have a special item, collection or important estate, I would like to hear from you. I pay great prices for great things in all categories fro m Oriental rugs to Tiffany objects, from rare clocks to firearms, from silver and gold to classic cars. If it is wonderful, I am interested. No phony promises or messy consignments. References gladly furnished. Please call Jake Lenihan, 301-2798834. Thank you. 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. LADY WHO LOVES DISHES and figurines wants to buy yours. Especially Royal Copenhagen, Deco Noritake, Limoges, Herend and English bone china. Do you have a collection of cup and saucers, dog and cat figurines, Royal Doulton ladies or salt and pepper shakers? Also mid-century Scandinavian ceramics and glass, Asian items, silver, paintings and costume jewelry. Anything else old and interesting, please call me. 301-785-1129. WE PAY CASH for antique furniture, quality used furniture, early American art, pottery, silver, glassware, paintings, etc. Single items to entire estates. Call Reggie or Phyllis at DC 202726-4427, MD 301-332-4697. LOOKING FOR A QUIET AND FRIENDLY WOMAN between the ages of 55-70 to share my lovely home in a quiet area of Silver Spring, MD. Must be either vegan or lacto-vegetarian, non-smoker, and non-drinker. The rent is $600/month including utilities. Call Carol at 301-754-1289 between 6:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. CASH FOR BOOKS. BEST PRICE guaranteed. All types of books. Hardcover or paperback. Free appraisals. Will make house calls. Call Nelson, 240-472-4615. GOT PENS? LONG TIME COLLECTOR seeks fountain pens. Free appraisals of your pens, information about restoring them, and always looking to buy or trade for fountain pens, especially Sheaffer, Eversharp, and Waterman fountain pens. David, 301-221-6596.
Thanks for reading.
WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N — A P R I L 2 0 1 6
Say you saw it in the Beacon
BEACON BITS
Apr. 12
CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING RATES
POET LAUREATE FINAL TALK
Juan Felipe Herrera will conclude his term as the 21st Poet Laureate at the Library of Congress with his lecture “Pioneers of Flower and Song” on Wednesday, April 12 at 7 p.m. In his lecture, Herrera will read from and discuss poets Francisco X. Alarcón, Alurista, Gloria Anzeldua, Lorna Dee Cervantes, Victor Martinez, José Montoya and Raúl Salinas. The event will end with young two poets, 11-year-old Sarita Sol Gonzalez and 12-year old Elena Medina, reading their own work, and a poem written with Herrera. This free lecture will take place in the Coolidge Auditorium on the ground floor of the Thomas Jefferson Building, located at 10 First St. SE, Washington, D.C. A discussion and book singing will follow. Tickets are not required, but early arrival is strongly recommended. For more information, visit www.loc.gov or call (202) 707-2905.
Apr. 12+
DANCE CLASSES
The Montgomery County Department of Recreation and the Dance to Health Society are offering dance and yoga classes every Tuesday, beginning April 12, for seven weeks at the Potomac Community Center, 11315 Falls Rd, Potomac, Md. Laughter Yoga fitness starts at 11:15 a.m. and Bollywood dance starts at 7 p.m. The cost for a session of seven classes is $69. For more information or to register, visit www.dance2health.com or www.montgomerycountymd.gov or call (240) 777-6960.
Deadlines and Payments: Ad text and payment is due by the 20th of each month. Note: Only ads received and prepaid by the deadline will be included in the next month’s issue. Please type or print your ad carefully. Include a number where you can be reached in the event of a question. Payment is due with ad. We do not accept ads by phone or fax, nor do we accept credit cards. Private Party Text Ads: For individuals seeking to buy or sell particular items, or place a personal ad. Each ad is $15 for 25 words, 25 cents for each additional word. Business Text Ads: For parties engaged in an ongoing business enterprise. Each ad is $35 for 25 words, 50 cents for each additional word. Note: Each real estate listing counts as one business text ad. Send your classified ad with check or money order, payable to the Beacon, to:
The Beacon, D.C. Classified Dept. P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915-2227 For information about display advertising, or to request a media kit, call (301) 949-9766.
ADVERTISERS IN THIS ISSUE Clinical Research Studies
Hearing Services
Diabetes Clinical Studies . . . . . . .20 Cognitive Impairment Study . . . .20
Auditory Services, Inc . . . . . . . . .20 Mendelson Group . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Sound Hearing Centers . . . . . . . .11
Computer Classes
Home Health Care
JCA SeniorTech . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-9
Dental Services
Friedman, Stephen, DDS . . . . . . .22 Oh, Judy, DDS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 Sklar, Andrew, DDS . . . . . . . . . . .12
Events
50+ Employment Expo . . . . . . . .32 Active Aging Expo . . . . . . . . . . . .34 Beacon 50+ Expo . . . . . . . . . . . . .47 Fairfax Spotlight on the Arts . . . .47 GROWS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40 Healthy Aging Forum . . . . . . . . .14 Montgomery Serves Awards . . . .40 Senior Leadership Montgomery .16
Financial Services
Capital Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Children’s National Hospital . . . .31 Eversafe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Group Benefit Resources . . . . . . .30 PENFED Credit Union . . . . . . . .33
Funeral Services
Fairfax Memorial . . . . . . . . . . . . .35 Fram Monuments . . . . . . . . . . . . .33 Going Home Cremation . . . . . . . .31
Government Services
DC Office on Aging . . . . . . . .25-28 Senior Leadership Montgomery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 Montgomery County Aging and Disability Services . . . . . . . . . .19
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Best Senior Care . . . . . . . . . . . .B14 Elder Caring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 Holy Cross Homecare & Hospice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 Home Care Assistance . . .B10, B19 Options for Senior America . . . . .32
Home Services
Camden Enterprises . . . . . . . . . . .14 Conquer the Clutter . . . . . . . . . . .19 Dan Kugler’s Design Center . . . . . .B8, B20, 52 Homefix Custom Remodeling . . .10 In Order . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41
Housing
Almost Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B16 Arden Courts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 Arleigh Burke . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B10 Ashby Ponds . . . . . . . . . .B2, B8, 48 Birmingham Green . . . . . . . . . . .13 The Bonifant at Silver Spring . . . . . . . .B5, B14 Brooke Grove Retirement Village . . . . . . . .B6, B12, B19, 17 Buckingham’s Choice . . . . . . . . .24 Chancellor’s Village . . . . . .B2, B13 Chesterbrook Residences . .B5, B13 Churchill Senior Living . . . . . . . .B4 Covenant Village . . . . . . . . . . . .B17 Culpepper Garden . . . . . . . . . . . .16 Emerson Village . . . . . . . . . . . .B15 Fairhaven . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24
Falcons Landing . . . . . . . . .B7, B13 Friendship Terrace . . . . . . .B8, B13 Glover Park Senior Living . . . . .B3 Great Falls Assisted Living . . . . . . . .B8, B17 Greenspring . . . . . . .14, B2, B6, 48 Hebrew Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 Homecrest House . . . . . . . .B6, B18 Knollwood . . . . . . . . . . . . .B5, B16 Olney Assisted Living . . . . . . . . .21 Park View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36 Potomac Place . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B18 Quantum Property Mgmt . . . . . .B4 Residences at Thomas Circle . . . .41 Riderwood . . . . . . . . . .B2, B19, 48 Springvale Terrace . . . . . . .B6, B17 Tall Oaks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B5, B14 Tribute at Heritage Village . . . . . . . .B9, B15 Tysons Towers . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B16 Waltonwood . . . . . . . . . . . .B3, B15
Legal Services
Restaurants
Original Pancake House . . . . . . . .49
Retail/Pawn/Auction
Adjustable Bed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42 Five Colors Science & Tech. . . . .23 Four Sales LTD . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31 Patriot Coins USA . . . . . . . . . . . .30 Quinn’s Auction Galleries . . . . . .13 WOW! Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . .46
Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation
Communicare Health . . . . . . . . . .15 HealthSouth Rehab Hospital . . . .16 Manor Care Health Services . . . .22 Vitality to You . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
Subscriptions
Law Firm of Evan Farr . . . . . . . .30 Law Offices of Paul Riekhof . . . .33
Beacon Subscription . . . . . . . . . .49 Washington Jewish Week . . . . . . .45
Medical/Health
Theatre/ Entertainment
Grace in Motion . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 Medical Eye Center . . . . . . . . . . .15 Montgomery Medical Clinic . . . .12 SI Back Pain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 Silver Spring Medical Center . . . .11
Pet Care
Sampson Smiles Pet Care . . . . . .15
Real Estate
Long & Foster/Eric Stewart . . .35, 38 Long & Foster/Inderjeet Jumani . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 Weichert/Doug Brasse . . . . . . . .213 Weichert/Sue Heyman . . . . . . . . .23
Ford’s Theatre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43 Options Prime Time . . . . . . . . . . .13 Toby’s Dinner Theatre . . . . . . . . .43 Wolf Trap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B11
Tour & Travel
Eyre Travel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39 Festive Holidays . . . . . . . . . . . . .39 Tripper Bus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41 US Navy Memorial . . . . . . . . . . .44 Vamoose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39 Walper Travel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36
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A P R I L 2 0 1 6 — WA S H I N G T O N B E A C O N