December 2020 | Howard County Beacon by The Beacon Newspapers

The Howard County

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The new studio space signifies the culmination of years of effort. Since the ReImagine Long Reach Village Center campaign was unveiled in 2014, the Arts Council has been an integral partner.

PHOTO COURTESY OF PAMELA WOOLFORD

Six years in the making

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More than 30,000 readers throughout Howard County

Artists bring new life to shops By Tony Glaros In a cozy, second-floor studio at Long Reach Village Center in Columbia, where the walls gleam with a fresh coat of white paint, artist Stacey Berger stepped back from a collage to gain perspective. She gazed at the meticulously arranged, diamond-shaped pieces of orange and blues. “I tore pages out of National Geographics and cut them into strips,” explained Berger, surrounded by the tools of her craft: acrylic paint, cotton swabs and a color wheel. She is using old-fashioned super glue to affix each piece to a board, a process that takes hours. “That’s my project for the rest of the afternoon.” Behind her rests an easel where Berger is putting the crowning touches on a floral scene with a brilliant orange border. A few steps away, in a small kitchen, sits a rack brimming with her finished works, along with material for future projects — an assortment of rags that were once her husband’s shirts. While honing her artistic gifts, Berger, who lives in Clarksville and practices law in downtown Columbia, is doing her part this year to advance a broader plan sponsored by the Howard County Arts Council to help reenergize the sagging retail complex. Once a thriving hub anchored by a Safeway store, Long Reach has faded since its heyday from the 1970s through the 90s. Its short list of tenants today includes a liquor store, laundromat and a Howard County Police satellite station. Yet, the shopping center gained some new tenants this year: Fifteen artists moved into recently renovated studio space, and a museum opened there last spring. “Urban and cultural planners across the globe recognize that the arts have the power to transform communities into special places — and have used creative placemaking as a strategy to revitalize cities and neighborhoods for decades,” said Coleen West, executive director of the Howard County Arts Council.

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BALTIMORE BEACON — DECEMBER 2020

Jewelers work with color, beauty and joy By Margaret Foster Ask any of the three winners of the Stained Glass and Jewelry category why they spend hours creating intricate works, and they’ll say the same thing: Because it makes them happy. The category’s juror, Maryland art designer and instructor Jill Tannenbaum, was pleased with the three winners and eight honorable mentions. “Overall, the quality was impressive,” Tannenbaum said of all the entries.

nearby — and they are always welcome in her basement studio, where the three of them create jewelry to give to their teachers and bus driver. If the kids ask her if they can touch or keep some of her treasures, she said, “Most of the time I say yes.”

Second Place

First Place Lori Grant Locust Grove, Va. Lori Grant, the firstplace winner of the Stained Glass/Jewelry category, learned how to make jewelry from her father. Grant, a veterinary technician who lives in Locust Grove Virginia, drove to her father’s house in Illinois six years ago for some in-person lessons. “We spent great quality time together. He taught me everything he knew and sent me home with a trunk full of equipment that I could never afford to buy,” Grant said. When her father, now 85, heard she won first place and an honorable mention for her silver jewelry, she said, “He laughed and said now I’ve outdone him.” Grant’s father wasn’t the only artist in the family. Grant, who grew up on an Illinois farm, remembers her grandmother working on art projects in a room that, as a child, Grant wasn’t allowed to enter. During the Depression, her grandmother made jewelry from fish eyeballs — a piece Grant still owns. “They’re pretty until someone tells you what they are,” she laughed. Grant’s siblings are artists and writers, she said. “I guess I came from a very creative background.”

Woodland Peace

By Lori Ann Grant

Grant’s first-place piece, “Woodland Peace,” is a pendant made from sterling silver and Variscite, a soft rock similar to turquoise. “It’s a sea foam green that I just love. I like to run my fingers across it all the time; it just feels nice. Envisioning a nature theme, Grant made silver castings from twigs she picked up in her yard. She bought leaf-shaped stamps from a Native American artist and arranged them around the stone. She uses Argentium sterling silver, a higher-grade sterling that doesn’t tarnish. The alloy takes some skill to work with, however. “When you’re soldering it, it just crumbles like dirt, and you’re like, ‘Oh man, that didn’t work.’” Grant still works two 10-hour days a week at a local animal hospital. “The rest of the time, I sit down in my basement and I make jewelry, and the time flies by,” she said. Now Grant is a grandmother herself. Her grandchildren, ages 9 and 12, live

Meredith Weiser Nor th Bethesda, Md. When Meredith Weiser learned she had won second place in the Jewelry category, she was “literally jumping with joy,” she said. Weiser’s jewelry is “what’s kept me sane during the pandemic,” she said. She makes jewelry almost every day from her North Bethesda home, “just to feel productive. I get really excited with the product.” Weiser recalls that she was a creative child, making macrame, crochet and bead necklaces. About 20 years ago, she began making jewelry for family and friends. She took a class at Accent Beads in 2012 on wire crochet that “really had me intrigued,” she said.

Her winning necklace, “Michaelmas Cay,” was inspired by a trip to Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. “I had this photograph and decided I wanted to re-create that in the necklace,” she said. Using shells and some beads she bought in Australia, she laid out all the colors carefully, “to get the gradations and darker blues, as you get into deeper water,” she said. Weiser’s technique involves stringing three separate strands of beads and then braiding them together. The unexpected results add to the suspense, she said. “When you’ve created three separate strands and bring them together, you’re not sure how it’s going to look until it’s done.” In addition, Weisman’s necklace “Aqua Dots” won an Honorable Mention. Although its colors resemble that of the reefinspired necklace, the necklaces’ styles are different. “I was trying to experiment with other types of crochet and came up with these wire crochet disks,” she said. “The dot necklace is individually crocheted disks using wire and linked together.” Making beautiful jewelry brings joy to her life. “I love to use color and different types of beads to create different looks,” Weisman said. “It makes me happy.”

Third Place Jeff Bulman Bethesda, Md. As the owner of three busy restaurants, Jeff Bulman has his hands full. But three years ago, a friend told him about a jewelrymaking class at Glen Echo Park, just 10 minutes from Bulman’s Bethesda home. Intrigued, he enrolled in the course. “I took one class, and another, and another. I just love it,” said Bulman, who has Michaelmas Cay

See JEWELRY, page 19

By Meredith Weiser

SEE SPECIAL SECTION Amateur artists win honors pages 17-24

L E I S U R E & T R AV E L

Artist Pamela Woolford moved into her sunlit studio at Long Reach Village Center in Columbia in October. The renovated second floor accommodates 16 artists. Working with Howard County, the Arts Council launched the Long Reach Artist Studio Program to revitalize the shopping center and create a vibrant, creative community.

In early discussions, the county and the arts organization talked about the feasibility of relocating the Arts Center to Long Reach. Reaction from all parties involved, West recalled, was positive. Buoyed by the community’s positive feedback, the arts council teamed up with a consultant hired by the county to assemble a needs assessment in 2015. That effort included a one-day ARTreach Festival, held for two consecutive summers. The free outdoor festival, which attracted nearly 1,000 people both years, offered curated activities such as face painters, puppet shows and slam poetry readings. With momentum building to reinvigorate the retail center, the county tapped a

private developer to drive the project. However, the plan fell through, West recalled. So “the county reached out to us again to see if we were interested in creating a studio program in conjunction with their new Long Reach Rising strategy.” West’s answer was yes. The opportunity to host programs ranging from arts and culture to economic enrichment made sense, she said, and the project moved forward.

A creative vibe Many of the artists began moving in on October 1. Other artistic types, including a cook and a tie-dye maker, moved into the See ART STUDIO, page 37

On a road trip through Western New York, speed on a racetrack and explore country roads; plus, Paris rebuilds Notre Dame the old-fashioned way page 32 TECHNOLOGY k No-touch payment tech

FITNESS & HEALTH k Tips to fend off falls k “Healthy” ice cream?

LAW & MONEY k Best ways to give to charity k How to get better Medicare

ARTS & STYLE k Edgar Allan Poe returns

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

Appreciating talent Our Howard County Beacon February First, I want to congratulate again the winners of our Celebration of the Arts am- cover story, “Facing a painful part of the past,” won Ivey Noojin first ateur art competition. You place in the Topical Issue catmay recall we announced egory. The juror said “This is their names in our July issue. an important story about This month, we are pleased dealing with a difficult histoto provide a special pull-out ry…Maryland’s legacy of section with images of their lunchings,” and praised the winning artworks and brief biinsight it gave readers. ographies of all the winners. I Robert Friedman won hope you enjoy reading about first place for his profile of the sources of their creative Alice McDermott, which was sparks and find their stories FROM THE our March cover story for inspiring. both the Howard County and I also want to congratulate PUBLISHER our own writing staff and our By Stuart P. Rosenthal Baltimore Beacons. The juror said the story “is recounted wonderful freelancers who have recently been recognized for their with grace and respect” and with “pitchperfect pace and delivery.” top-notch work. Each year, we enter a selection of our writOur travel writer, Victor Block, won ers’ original stories in the annual journalism first place for two “most inviting” stories competition held by the North American with a maritime theme: one about a riverMature Publishers Association (NAMPA), boat cruise on the Danube, and one about the association for newspapers and maga- Panama and its famous canal. He was zines specifically for the 50+ market. praised for capturing the beauty, history That competition attracts hundreds of and culture of his destinations. submissions every year and is judged by And several of my columns — on diversiinternationally respected faculty at the Uni- ty, COVID-19, artificial intelligence and versity of Missouri School of Journalism. music — were honored in the Editorial, SenThis year, our four publications, each of ior Issues and Personal Essay categories. which competes in a different category In Baltimore, writer Simone Ellin won based on circulation, received a total of 18 first place in the Feature category for her NAMPA awards. cover story last September about Balti-

Beacon The

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The Beacon is a monthly newspaper dedicated to inform, serve, and entertain the citizens of the Greater Baltimore area, and is privately owned. Other editions serve Howard County, Md., Greater Washington, DC and Richmond, Va. (Fifty Plus). Subscriptions are available via third-class mail ($12), prepaid with order. Maryland residents add 6 percent for sales tax. Send subscription order to the office listed below. Publication of advertising contained herein does not necessarily constitute endorsement. Signed columns represent the opinions of the writers, and not necessarily the opinion of the publisher. Publisher/Editor – Stuart P. Rosenthal

more’s Rock Steady Boxing program for Parkinson’s patients. Theatre reviewer Dan Collins won first place for two of his reviews of Baltimore productions. The judge said his reviews “are an art in themselves.” Our quarterly Housing & Homecare Options pull-out section, which appears in both the Baltimore and Greater Washington Beacons, won first place for best special section. Our Richmond publication, Fifty Plus, brought home a first- and a second-place award in the Profile and How-To categories. And in our Greater Washington edition, our managing editor, Margaret Foster, won two first place awards for cover stories, Glenda Booth won first place for a feature story, Alice Shapiro won first for a How-To article, and the Beacon won both the General Excellence and Best of Show awards — the top prizes of the whole competition. In short, nearly every Beacon staff writer and freelancer was honored in this national competition, and we couldn’t be prouder of each of them. Of course, whatever awards we do or do not win, what matters most to us is that you, our readers, are pleased with the practical information, news and entertainment you find each month in the Beacon. Please let us know what you think — even (actually, especially) if you think we are missing the boat in any particular area. Also feel free to share ideas for future stories and to recommend your fellow citizens for profiles. Your opinions, suggestions and letters to the editor are always welcome, whether you contact us by mail, phone, fax, email or online. I want to conclude by expressing my thanks to, and admiration for, all our writers (and editors) mentioned above as well as the other members of our staff, who work so diligently to produce multiple editions of the Beacon every month.

I’d like to thank them by name for their efforts and devoted contributions: Vice President of Operations Gordon Hasenei; Vice President of Sales & Marketing Alan Spiegel; Art Director Kyle Gregor y; Assistant Operations Manager (and webmaster) Roger King; Advertising Representatives Dan Kelly, Steve Levin, M.K. Phillips and Lisa BentonHawkins; Assistant Editor Catherine Brown, Content Manager Ashley Griffin and last, but certainly not least, my wife, the Beacon’s president, Judy Rosenthal. The Beacon would not exist without all of their efforts, nor without you who read our publications each month. I offer my sincere appreciation to each of you.

Don’t miss our Expo! Just a reminder that our first virtual 50+Expo brings together nearly 100 informative exhibits, a variety of expert speakers, engaging classes and varied entertainment, all available 24/7 at beacon50expo.com. This totally free event, which runs through the end of January, is made possible by a partnership between the Beacon and the Baltimore County Department of Aging and the Howard County Office on Aging & Independence, and by our many sponsors and exhibitors. We owe a particular debt of gratitude to our Gold Sponsors: the Maryland Department of Aging and Maplewood Park Place. Please take a minute to visit beacon50expo.com and see all that we offer there. We hope you choose to stay and explore the site, and that you will return often and encourage your friends and family to visit, too. And be sure to register for our weekly $100 door prize drawing!

Letters to the editor Readers are encouraged to share their opinion on any matter addressed in the Beacon as well as on political and social issues of the day. Mail your Letter to the Editor to The Beacon, P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915, or email info@thebeaconnewspapers.com. Please include your name, address and telephone number for verification.

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

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

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

Dear Editor: Thank you for your November cover story on “What retirees (should) want.” I was shocked when Dr. Ken Dychtwald shared, “...about half the retired population are bored out of their wits.” Seriously?! Perhaps I am blessed. I retired from the federal government in 2015 at age 56. Young, I know. My 56-year-old husband had died unexpectedly the year before. Our kids were 21 and 15. To retire from my federal agency, one MUST attend a four-day retirement seminar. As expected, benefits for the prospective retirees covered health insurance,

monthly pay, etc. But most of the four days covered, “What are you gonna DO after retirement?” Speakers explained how to find and explore new areas of interest, many at little or no cost. My passions are scrapbooking and figure skating. A few days after retiring, I attended figure skating camp. It was a blast! Since then I’ve volunteered at church and traveled to places I always wanted to see. Retiring was easy for me, and I hope others also find their niche. Mildred Alexander Catonsville, Md.

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

KEYNOTE SPEAKER

2020 PRESENTED BY

Ken Dychtwald, PhD, a national expert on aging and author of the new book, What Retirees Want

WHAT:

A 50+Expo like you’ve never seen before:

More than 60 hours of speakers, classes and entertainment, 100 exhibitors, and 3 months in which to enjoy it! Plus, weekly door prizes

A sampling of our programs:

WHERE: All online at a new website designed just for this event: www.beacon50expo.com

WHEN:

The Virtual 50+Expo is live now

and continues through January 31, 2021.

Classes: Meditation 101; Line Dancing; Avoiding Frauds & Scams; Healthy Cooking

Speakers: Low Vision Solutions, Interview with the Oldest Living Tuskegee Airman; Caregiving During COVID; Options for Intergenerational Activity

Entertainment: Jazz piano; Stand-up Comics; Classical String Quartet; Rock 'n' Roll, Barbershop Chorus GOLD SPONSORS

SILVER SPONSORS

Brought to you free of charge by the Beacon Newspapers, in partnership with the Baltimore County Department of Aging and the Howard County Oﬃce on Aging & Independence.

WHO:

BRONZE SPONSORS

www.beacon50expo.com Businesses and organizations interested in exhibiting/sponsoring: Call Lisa at (410) 442-3734

MEDIA SPONSORS

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

Visit beacon50expo.com

Here is a selection of the classes, entertainment, and speakers available at

2020

www.beacon50expo.com NOW through January 31, 2021:

SPEAKERS

CLASSES

KEYNOTE: Ken Dychtwald, PhD speaking about decades of research on aging and how to make the most of retirement Women’s Heart Health, Women’s Heart Specialist & Cardiologist Daisy Lazarous, M.D. Courtesy of Adventist HealthCare Adventist Medical Group The Latest Information on Low Vision Research Dr. Emily Chew, National Eye Institute of the National Institutes of Health, courtesy of Prevention of Blindness Society The Oldest Living Tuskegee Airman interview with Brig. Gen. Charles McGee, courtesy of Silver Spring Village Everything You Always Wanted to Know about the Cuban Missile Crisis from a CIA insider, courtesy of Silver Spring Village How to Create Harmony in Your Life interview with Serge Mazerand, composer, pianist and author of The 7 Keys to Serenity Designing Camelot a discussion with the co-authors of Designing Camelot: The Kennedy White House Restoration, courtesy of the White House Historical Association A, B, C and D’s of Medicare Sherry Kolbe, State Health Insurance Assistance Program Manager for Baltimore County, courtesy of Baltimore County Department of Aging

Mindful Meditation Seminar including guided meditation practice, courtesy of Brooke Grove Foundation Intergenerational Volunteer Activities You Can Do from Home a panel including GrandInvolve, Age-Friendly DC, Link Generations, Experience Corp, Montgomery Connects and JCA Heyman Interages Center, courtesy of Empowering the Ages Go, Grow and Get Active Video special featuring tai chi ﬁt, laughter yoga, Zumba and more, courtesy Montgomery County Aging & Disabilities Avoiding Coronavirus Frauds and Scams, courtesy of AARP VA Cooking with Chef Francis, an Embassy Chef Challenge award-winner, courtesy of Gold Sponsor, Maplewood Park Place Dance with Nancy lessons with Nancy Hays in Electric Slide and Achy Breaky line dancing for exercise and fun, courtesy of DancewithNancy.com Playing Billiards a demonstration of techniques and shots, courtesy of Maplewood Park Place Zumba, Tai Chi and Core & Stretch classes courtesy of Baltimore County Department of Aging

T N E M N I A T R E T N E

Rearview Mirror Duo Iris Hirsch and Glenn Bullion perform a blend of rock and roll, R&B, pop, country, standards from the Great American Songbook, disco, and Motown from the 50s, 60s, 70s Shades of Gray rock and roll band, performing memorable songs, courtesy of Ken Hunter

Stand-up comedy Four over-50 comics do their thing, courtesy of Silver Spring Town Center SPARKLE program Alexandria Harmonizers Christmas Concert award-winning barbershop men’s chorus from Alexandria, Va., courtesy of the Harmonizers

Maxim Lando, 18-year-old classical piano phenom protégé of Lang Lang, performs Kapustin’s Concert Etudes, courtesy of Candlelight Concerts

Music by Black American women composers performed by the Chin Family Quartet and Victoria Bragin, courtesy of the Friday Morning Music Club

Dance to music from a live ballroom orchestra courtesy of dancewithnancy.com

Beethoven Sonata No. 10 in G major, for violin and piano Lisa Weiss and Yeou-Cheng Ma (sister of Yo Yo Ma), courtesy of Lisa Weiss

French, Latin and American Jazz recital by Steve Baddour, courtesy of the Louise P. Zanar Fund

Say you saw it in the Beacon

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

Technology &

Innovations Avoid dirty money with no-touch payment By Gregory Karp If you’re looking for a self-improvement task in this pandemic era, try teaching yourself to use contactless payments with your phone or “tap-to-pay” credit and debit cards. Any germaphobe will tell you that the surfaces of bills and coins have always been gross. And handing your credit card to a cashier who has the sniffles and a hacking cough? Even in pre-pandemic times, gross. Now, COVID-19 has prompted the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to advise using touchless payments whenever possible in the brick-and-mortar world. Americans have been relatively slow to adopt touch-free payments even though they’re more convenient and secure than swiping credit and debit cards. But maybe hygiene will be the tipping point as people seek a solution for, well, yucky money.

Simple and convenient “I think the pandemic is a strong impetus to change,” said Jodie Kelley, CEO of the

Electronic Transactions Association. “I think it’s going to stick and accelerate further. “As people get used to it and understand how to do it and find that it’s simple and convenient, then they’re not going to shift back.” Consumer interest in contactless payments has spiked during the pandemic. Since January, no-touch payments have increased at 69% of retailers surveyed by the research firm Forrester on behalf of the National Retail Federation. And two-thirds of retailers surveyed now accept some form of no-touch payment. Learning to use contactless payments might be awkward at first, and some of your favorite retailers might not be equipped to accept them. The point is to give it a shot the next time you’re not in a rush in a checkout line that can handle contactless payments. “The first time I went to pay with my phone, I didn’t quite know how to do it,” Kelley said. “I felt a little silly trying to figure it out. But once I figured it out, I loved it.”

Here are three ways to experiment with contactless payments and avoid dirty currency and much-touched payment terminals:

Tap to pay True, the word “tap” doesn’t exactly scream contactless. But “tap to pay” credit and debit cards really only need to be within a couple of inches of the payment terminal. The cards have little antennas inside. How to tell if your payment card has contactless capability? It will have a logo that looks like a sideways Wi-Fi symbol of radiating waves. Retail payment terminals that accept contactless payments have the same symbol. These cards don’t require a smartphone to complete a contactless payment, and you don’t have to use a PIN. Nine of the top 10 U.S. credit card issuers are actively distributing new contactless cards to customers, Visa has said. “For people who are not used to engaging with technology, I would say, first look at your

card, see if it has the symbol. And if it does, the next time you’re at a retail location, all you have to do is touch that card to the terminal,” Kelley said. “It is incredibly straightforward. I encourage people to try it.”

Smartphone payments With this option, you open your “wallet” app and hold your phone near the terminal, and your phone will ask for authentication. That’s the normal unlocking procedure with your phone, whether punching in a code or using thumbprint or face identification. Many smartwatches work, too, as long as they have the required technology, called NFC, or near-field communication. The most popular services are Apple Pay, Google Pay and Samsung Pay. Phone payments require a little prep work before you get to the checkout counter. First, you must enter your payment card information into your mobile wallet app. See TOUCHLESS PAYMENT, page 6

Trying online banking? FAQs answered By Chanelle Bessette As the COVID-19 pandemic leads banking customers to lean into technology to manage their money, those trying online banking for the first time may find themselves with questions about how to handle things previously done in person or with paper documents. If you’re stuck on how to handle some of the practical aspects of online banking, here are answers to common questions: Should I save monthly statements? Experian, one of the three major credit bureaus, recommends keeping bank statements for tax purposes to confirm your income or deductible expenses. If you do end up using your statements for your taxes, you may want to hang onto your statements for up to seven years in case the IRS decides to audit you. Even if your bank keeps digital records of your statements, you may want to print or download your statements just in case. When should I shred the paper check from a mobile deposit? Major banks recommend that after you’ve made a mobile deposit, you write “mobile deposit” and the date of deposit on the front of the check. Keep the check until you’ve made

sure the deposit has gone through — which may take several days — and that the bank doesn’t need the original check for any reason. Once the check has been cleared in your account, it’s best to shred it. How do I send money or pay bills through my mobile banking app? If you want to send money to friends or family, your bank may have you covered with the Zelle money transfer service. Zelle, which is integrated with many major banks and also available as a separate app, allows registered users to receive and send money from their bank accounts. You can also sign up for money transfer apps like Venmo or Cash App and link them to your bank account to send and receive money, as long as your sender or recipient has the same app. To pay your bills online, your bank might have the option to set up recurring payments to services like your cell phone provider or utility company, allowing you to automate your monthly bills. Some banks can also send a check on your behalf if necessary. Wells Fargo, for example, offers online bill pay services, but you can also schedule paper checks to

be sent for you if your service provider doesn’t accept electronic payments. Search your bank’s FAQs or reach out to its customer service department for details on its bill-pay features. What should I do if my mobile banking app isn’t working? It’s a universal truth that technology comes with occasional frustrations. Sometimes banks experience app outages and sometimes there are problems on the user side. Here are a few things you can do to diagnose the problem: — Make sure your login credentials are correct. Entering an incorrect username and/or password is a common stumbling block and will prevent access to your account. Some banks might even lock you out after too many failed login attempts. If you’ve forgotten your login information, contact your bank’s tech support team. — Check your email and your bank’s social media accounts. Your bank may have posted on its Facebook or Twitter accounts or sent an email notification about any known app problems. Many consumers today also use their banks’ platforms to flag problems themselves. If there’s an outage,

your bank may post information on how long it’s expected to last and how you can access your account in the meantime. Bookmark or follow your bank’s social media accounts for quick access. — Update your app and/or your phone software. Your version of the app could be out of date, or your phone’s software may need updating to use a newer version of the app. Go to your phone’s app marketplace (e.g., Apple App Store or Google Play Store), search for your bank’s app and see if there’s an option to update. — Get technical support from your bank. For help, reach out to your bank’s customer service representatives by phone, email or chat, if available. — Use your desktop login or visit a branch or ATM. If your app isn’t working, you may still be able to log in on a desktop computer. If your bank has physical branches, you should be able to get in-person service, although COVID-19 precautions may mean that hours are limited. If you’re trying to deposit a check or check your balance, you can use an ATM, as long as your bank offers use of a network. —AP/NerdWallet

Technology & Innovations | Subscribe for half-price. See p. 38

D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; H O WA R D C O U N T Y

BEACON

New products for this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gift giving Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s face it. Exercising to become (or stay) fit is seldom the most enjoyable of experiences. But one company has come up with a way to pair one of the best types of exercise â&#x20AC;&#x201D; the plank â&#x20AC;&#x201D; with the fun (and frustration) of video games to help us forget that weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re strengthening our cores while weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re hang-gliding, blowing up things or racing around an obstacle course. You can download the games free online, but they are designed to work with the

Stealth Plankster device ($99) that uses your bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s planking motions to direct your video game avatar through the course. The device is basically a large plastic triangle, situated on a stable cone that lets it swivel 360 degrees. You place your smartphone in an indentation on top, then assume a plank position (on your knees, if a beginner) holding the sides of the triangle. As you rotate forward and back and side to side to maneuver your avatar, you are giving your entire core (abs, obliques and

F R E E â&#x2DC;&#x2026; I N F O R M AT I O N F R E E

(see ad on page 16)

â?? Park View Colonial Landing (see ad on page 34) â?? Park View Columbia (see ad on page 34) â?? Park View Ellicott City (see ad on page 34) â?? Park View Emerson (see ad on page 34) â?? Oak Crest/Erickson (see ad on page 10) â?? Residences at Vantage Point (see ad on page 11) â?? Shriner Court (see ad on page 33) â?? Willow Manor at Fairland (see ad on page 6)

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I N F O R M AT I O N F R E E I N F O R M AT I O N

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â?? Alta At Regency Crest (see ad on page 8) â?? Brooke Grove (see ad on page 40) â?? Charlestown (see ad on page 10) â?? Evergreens at Columbia Town Center

F R E E

Housing Communities

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Health Study Volunteers â?? COVID Plasma Studies (see article on page 14) â?? Early COVID Study (see ad on page 13) â?? Recovered from COVID Study (see ad on page 14) â?? Exposed to COVID Study (see ad on page 15)

seum wall, and five famous paintings are magnetized for â&#x20AC;&#x153;hanging.â&#x20AC;? (Choose the Classics or Modernism set.) There are also magnets for the ticket booth, snack bar and exit, and a 20-page cardboard book that charmingly tells about the artworks and what museum visits are like. Two wooden â&#x20AC;&#x153;docentsâ&#x20AC;? let children with good imaginations play while learning about art. Price: $45. Available at cityspotsonline.com and Amazon.

Culture for kids Less technological, but also unique, is the Museum Tour Playset, designed for 2year-olds and up. A folding whiteboard serves as the mu-

Touchless payment

Just be sure to clean your hands after using the pump nozzle.

From page 5 Then, the card is saved and available to use.

Touchless pay at the pump Many retailers, such as Starbucks and Target, have mobile apps that let you pay on your phone and bypass in-person payment completely. In those cases, you typically would get items delivered or visit the store for curbside or in-store pickup. Another way to use a retail app is at major gas station chains. The apps (download them at an app store) let you identify which pump number youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re at, then authorize you to use it. You fill your tank with gas, and the charge goes to whatever payment method you identified in the gas-station app.

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Health Fitness &

ICE CREAM, YOU SCREAM Can ice cream be healthy or just less unhealthy? What to look for on the label PROTEIN FACTS As we age, many of us need more protein. But are protein powders the answer? CLINICAL TRIAL Johns Hopkins gives plasma transfusions to COVID-positive or exposed volunteers POWER OF GINGER Ginger root can strengthen the immune system, regulate blood sugar and more

A surprising cause of falls: multitasking By Brad Manor A few years ago, my grandmother fell and broke her hip. She has never fully recovered and is now constantly fearful of falling, and has significantly limited her activities to prevent a fall from ever happening again. As a scientist focused on translational research in mobility and falls in older adults, of course I asked her how she fell. She stated that she was standing in the kitchen, reading a recipe, when the phone rang. When she turned and started to walk over to the phone, her feet “weren’t in the right spot.” She fell sideways and, unfortunately, her hip was unable to absorb the impact without breaking. For older adults, falls are a leading cause of hip and wrist fractures, concussions, mobility disability, loss of independence and even death. As it turns out, the circumstances leading up to my grandmother’s fall were typical. In fact, the majority of falls occur when an individual is “dual-tasking” — that is, standing or walking while at the same time performing a separate cognitive task (such as reading), a motor task (carrying groceries), or both (walking while talking and carrying a cup of coffee).

Why does dual-tasking (or multitasking) often lead to falls in older adults? It turns out that the seemingly simple acts of standing upright, or walking down an empty, well-lit hallway, are quite complex. To complete these tasks, we must continuously stabilize our body’s center of mass — a point located just behind our sternum — over the relatively small base of support that we create by positioning our feet on the ground. This control requires quick reflexes, as well as strong muscles of the trunk, hips, legs, ankles and toes. However, to avoid falling we also need to pay attention to our body and environment, predict and perceive unsafe movements of our body, and adjust accordingly. Our brains need to quickly make sense of information coming from our eyes, ears and bodies to produce patterns of muscle activity that appropriately adjust our body’s position within the environment. Therefore, tasks of standing and walking are in fact cognitive tasks, and these tasks require more and more cognitive effort as we grow older and our senses and muscles no longer work as well as they once did. For my grandmother and many others,

dual-tasking led to a fall because it diverted shared cognitive resources away from the critical job of controlling her body’s center of mass over her feet on the ground.

Training may prevent falls Older adults who are cognitively impaired are more than two times as likely to fall compared to those who are cognitively intact. A recent study by researchers at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine has shown that even subtle differences in the brain’s ability to dual-task when walking are predictive of future falls in healthy older adults. Specifically, the researchers asked their volunteers to walk while completing a word-generation task in their laboratory, and used a technology called functional near-infrared spectroscopy to measure brain activity. Those volunteers who required more brain activity (mental effort) to complete these tasks were more likely to fall during a four-year follow-up period. Thankfully, these startling studies have a silver lining: They suggest that cognitive function is a promising — and largely untapped — target for the prevention and rehabilitation of falls.

If you are worried about falling, or feel like your balance is slipping, you might consider the following: Be aware of your surroundings. Try to minimize distractions if and when you find yourself standing in a crowded room, walking down an uneven sidewalk, or in a hurry to get to an appointment. Avoid answering your cellphone, keep conversations light, and prioritize your balance above all else. Keep your mind sharp. Cognitive decline is not an unavoidable consequence of aging. There are proven tips for maximizing your mental abilities into older age. Consider joining a class on tai chi, yoga or dance. These safe mind-body exercises have proven effective for improving balance and even reducing falls in older adults. Remember that falls rarely occur due to a single factor, like poor muscle strength, fatigue or reduced vision. Instead, they usually occur when multiple factors combine to cause an irrecoverable loss of balance. Multifactorial strategies therefore appear to be the best “medicine” for the avoidance of falls. © 2020 by Harvard University

Pros and cons of dietary supplements By Rozalina McCoy, M.D. Dear Mayo Clinic: Why does my doctor want to know what supplements I’m taking, even if I don’t have any health problems and don’t take more than the recommended amounts? A: It’s important to tell your healthcare provider about any dietary supplements you take. Although you don’t need a prescription for most supplements, that doesn’t mean they can’t significantly affect your health. Dietary supplements are useful in some situations — for example, calcium and vitamin D for bone health, and iron for iron-deficiency anemia. But they also can be harmful, especially if taken in certain combinations, with certain prescription medications, or before surger y or other medical procedures. By knowing the supplements you take, your healthcare provider can ensure they are a good fit for you.

Nutritional or herbal? There are two general categories of dietary supplements: nutritional and herbal. Nutritional supplements are designed to provide vitamins and minerals your body needs that you may not get enough of in your diet. Calcium, vitamin D, vitamin B12, iron and fiber are common nutritional supplements many people take. Herbal supplements, sometime called botanicals, are supplements derived from plants that are touted as having health benefits. Popular herbal supplements include echinacea, ginkgo and flaxseed. People take dietary supplements to improve their health or prevent illness. One concern about supplements, though, is lack of oversight in their production and unproven claims manufacturers make about their benefits. Prescription and over-the-counter medications are closely regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). But the FDA doesn’t regulate or oversee

supplement content or claims to the same degree as it does for medications. Just because a supplement is approved for sale doesn’t necessarily mean it’s safe or effective.

be influenced by whether you take them with food or on an empty stomach. Some supplements also can prevent the absorption or action of medications, so it may be important to take them separately.

Benefits come with possible risk Although supplements aren’t regulated in the same way medications are, they have active ingredients that can affect your body and your health. And keep in mind that anything strong enough to produce a positive effect — such as lowering cholesterol or improving mood — also is strong enough to carry potential health risks. That’s one of the key reasons it’s important to talk with your healthcare provider about your supplements. He or she can review the potential benefits and side effects, and evaluate if the supplement is safe for you. When you take your supplements can be a factor you need to discuss with your healthcare provider, as well. For example, the absorption of some supplements can

Interactions are an issue It is particularly important for you to review your supplements with your healthcare provider if you take more than one supplement, or if you take any prescription or nonprescription medication. In some cases, taking a combination of supplements, or using supplements while taking certain medications, could lead to harmful or life-threatening results. You mention that you don’t take more than the recommended amount of your supplement, and that is wise. Taking more than the recommended daily values can increase the risk of side effects. But be aware that vitamins and minerals See SUPPLEMENTS, page 8

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Can ice cream be healthy — or healthier? By Matthew Kadey When it comes to frosty treats, ice cream reigns supreme. These days, you may have noticed that low-calorie options ranging in flavors from Birthday S’mores to Cookie Dough are one of the coolest food trends in the supermarket freezer aisle. Their growth owes largely to a desire for wellness, even in the dessert world. But isn’t healthy ice cream an oxymoron? Well, certain ice cream brands are promising consumers a way to satisfy their ice cream cravings minus the caloric pitfall. Labels touting fewer calories, more protein and less sugar should theoretically let you dig in with fewer waistline repercussions. But are these eat-the-whole-pint-style treats a godsend for health-conscious eaters who also scream for ice cream?

How the types differ Regular ice cream contains more regular sugar and more cream — meaning more fat calories — than its low-cal brethren, whose core ingredients tend to be skim milk, milk protein (hence, the higher protein count) and a low-calorie sweetener like erythritol. Other inclusions in the low-cal type can be flavorings, gums, thickeners and added fibers, such as corn fiber, that help give the products a taste and texture similar to regular ice cream. There are also dairy-free options on the market, which swap out the cow’s milk for almond or coconut “milk,” a good option for vegans or those who can’t tolerate dairy. Lower-calorie ice creams have been around for years, but the newer crop of creamy treats boasts a more drastic reduction, a stingy 300 to 360 calories per pint.

So, a whole pint of “healthier” ice cream can have the same calorie count as just a half-cup of a premium version. But ideas regarding portion control for desserts and snacks may become skewed as a result.

Portion size can be an issue “One of the biggest drawbacks of these types of ice creams is that many individuals rationalize, because of the low calories, hat they can eat more, and [so] lose sight of the actual intended serving size,” said Keri Gans, R.D., author of The Small Change Diet. One study found that foods advertised as “low-fat” may lead people to eat up to 50% more than they might if no claim is made. Though the 300-calorie pints may seem less indulgent, if people eat them too often, they may gain weight. “A portion of ice cream, even the lower-

calorie stuff, should be no more than twothirds of a cup,” Gans advised. But she said these ice creams can be a good way for people to cut back on their saturated fat intake if they are regular ice cream consumers. Many of these lightened-up ice creams contain extra amounts of protein — up to 20 grams in a pint, which, sure, can add a boost of this nutrient to your diet. But most Americans already eat enough protein, and it certainly shouldn’t be a motivating factor to eat more dessert. “At the end of the day, a low-calorie ice cream is still ice cream,” Gans said. “It doesn’t compare to the nutritional benefits of other higher protein foods, such as yogurt, cottage cheese, hard-boiled egg, nuts or edamame.” A three-ounce piece of chicken breast or one and a quarter cups of black beans delivers the same amount of protein as a whole pint of “high-protein” ice cream.

Sugar substitutes and cravings While many brands use less-caloric sugar alternatives like stevia and erythritol to help keep calorie counts down, research suggests relying on them is no guarantee for lasting weight loss success. No- or lower-calorie sweeteners may simply work to stoke a sweet tooth, leading to an increased intake of sugary calories elsewhere in the diet. Gans stressed, however, that these alternatives have been proven safe for consumption, so they may be beneficial to those with diabetes who want to enjoy a bowl of ice cream. Just remember that while these newfangled ice creams are lower in sugar, they’re not necessarily sugar-free. The amount of sugar can vary by brand, so it’s important to read labels to know how much you’re getting in a serving.

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are being added to a growing number of foods, including breakfast cereals and beverages. If you’re also taking supplements, you may be getting more of some nutrients than you realize. Your healthcare provider can help you evaluate your diet and decide if you need the supplements that you’re taking. The bottom line is that, although nutritional and herbal supplements may be useful, they aren’t risk-free. By talking with your healthcare provider about the supplements you take, and discussing their potential benefits and risks, you’ll gain a better understanding of the value those supplements have for your health overall. — Rozalina McCoy, M.D., Community Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota Mayo Clinic Q & A is an educational resource and doesn’t replace regular medical care. Email a question to MayoClinicQ&A@mayo.edu. For more information, visit mayoclinic.org.

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Swallowing issues are common, treatable By Magnus Halland, M.D. Dear Mayo Clinic: My mother is in her 80s and sometimes has trouble swallowing when she’s eating. She says it’s not bothering her much, but I feel like it’s starting to affect how much and how often she eats. Is there anything that can be done to treat this problem? A: It’s likely your mother’s problem with swallowing can be better understood and potentially helped, but it will require a medical evaluation. Having difficulty swallowing is a common concern that has several possible explanations. A thorough assessment of your mother’s condition can uncover the cause and guide treatment. When a person is having trouble swallowing — the medical term is dysphagia — the first step is to identify the point in the swallowing process where the problem is happening. There are two phases of swallowing. The first is the oropharyngeal phase. It involves the mouth and throat. The second is the esophageal phase. It involves the transport of food or fluids from the throat into the stomach through the esophagus (food pipe). Determining whether swallowing difficulty is related to oropharyngeal transfer or esophageal transit often can be accom-

plished by reviewing the symptoms people experience when they swallow.

First phase difficulties The oropharyngeal phase requires proper function of muscles in the palate, as well as appropriate tongue motion and airway protection during swallowing. This all happens in a coordinated sequence that allows for smooth transit of food and fluid from the mouth, through the throat and into the top of the esophagus. With oropharyngeal issues, patients typically begin to choke, cough or gag almost immediately after attempting to swallow. Material may come out the nose or slip out of the mouth. If an oropharyngeal problem is suspected, a healthcare provider may ask a patient to drink some water so the provider can observe what happens. When an oropharyngeal problem seems to be the cause, a pharyngeal swallowing study typically is performed with X-rays. This study can reveal structural issues, or problems with muscle coordination or strength in the mouth or throat. Conditions that cause oropharyngeal swallowing difficulties include many neurological diseases, such as stroke and Parkinson’s disease.

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Second phase issues In the esophageal phase, the muscles of the esophagus have to contract and relax in a coordinated fashion to move food to the stomach. The passageway within the esophagus also must be wide enough to allow food through it easily. If the problem is related to esophageal transit, the material clears the patient’s mouth and throat without incident, and he or she can breathe easily. But the patient feels as if something is stuck behind the breastbone or there is pain in the esophagus while swallowing. Eventually what was swallowed will typically pass, but in some cases the material is regurgitated. If it appears to be an esophageal concern, the first test usually is endoscopy. During this procedure, a thin, flexible and lighted instrument, called an endoscope, is passed down the throat so the doctor can see into the esophagus to check for blockages, narrowing, inflammation or other structural issues. In some cases, tissue samples may be taken. If narrowing of the esophagus is found, expansion of the esophagus may be performed during an endoscopy, too. When results of an endoscopy are normal, the focus shifts to a possible esophageal motility problem or muscle dys-

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Most problems are treatable Specific treatment for swallowing difficulty depends on the underlying cause. In most cases, however, problems with swallowing can be relieved or significantly reduced once the source is identified. It is important to address dysphagia. Not only can swallowing difficulty interfere with nutrition and potentially trigger unhealthy weight loss, it can also cause quality of life issues. Some people who have swallowing difficulty are embarrassed by it and avoid socializing in settings that involve food. That can lead to social isolation and potentially depression. Encourage your mother to see her healthcare provider for an evaluation soon. — Magnus Halland, M.D., Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota Mayo Clinic Q & A is an educational resource and doesn’t replace regular medical care. Email a question to MayoClinicQ&A@mayo.edu. For more information, visit mayoclinic.org.

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function, although generally these disorders are uncommon. An esophageal muscle test, called “manometry,” can be used to measure muscle contractions in the esophagus.

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More protein, yes; protein powder, maybe By Emily Gelsomin M.L.A., R.D., L.D.N. Eating enough protein is not just for athletes or would-be Schwarzenegger types. Protein is necessary for a healthy immune system and required for organs like your heart, brain and skin to function properly. The nutrient is also touted for its ability to help control appetite and enhance muscle growth. How much protein you need typically depends on your exercise routine, age and health. (With age, many of us need more. See below.)

A look at protein powders Whether to supplement protein intake with a protein powder has become a common query. To make such supplements, protein is extracted from animal- or plant-based sources, which range from cow’s milk and eggs to peas, rice and soy. During processing, naturally occurring carbohydrates, fats, minerals and fiber are often removed, while supplementary nutrients, herbs and even sweeteners and flavorings may be added. Anyone considering protein powder should understand that it is classified as a dietary supplement, which means it is not regulated in the same way as food or medicine. Responsibility falls on manufacturers to ensure that their products are not haz-

Ice cream From page 8 It’s also worth noting cost. For getting less (calories, fat, sugar), you will pay more. These gentrified ice creams can cost up to 50% more than the traditional options. In the end, if you are yearning for ice cream, go ahead and wedge in a small

ardous, though many companies do not test for safety or efficacy before their offerings hit shelves. Though the FDA created Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) to help minimize adverse issues, compliance with these procedures isn’t guaranteed. In 2017, roughly a quarter of supplement-manufacturing companies whose products were tested received citations related to purity, strength and ingredient content. That said, there are accredited organizations, like NSF International, which independently test supplements, including protein powders. NSF’s “Certified for Sport” designation ensures that contents match what is on the label, the product is GMP-registered, and the powder does not contain unsafe levels of toxic metals like arsenic and mercury.

Certain athletes undergoing intense training may enhance their progress by consuming more than double the RDA, but this doesn’t apply to most of us. For many people, it is relatively easy to reach recommended amounts through their usual diet. One egg, one half-cup of chickpeas or a small handful of nuts all provide roughly 6 grams of protein. A piece of chicken or fish the size of a deck of cards offers about 30 grams. On average, Americans consume 65 to

90 grams of protein each day. (Young women under the age of 19 and people older than 70 are more likely to be at risk for low protein intake.) Individuals with kidney disease often benefit from consuming marginally less protein than the RDA. They should talk to a healthcare provider before supplementing with protein.

See PROTEIN, page 12

How much protein do you need? How much protein you need is another crucial consideration when deciding whether you might benefit from supplementing your diet. The amount thought to be adequate for most healthy people, called the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA), is set at 0.8 grams per kilogram. For someone who weighs 150 pounds, this translates to roughly 55 grams of protein; a 200-pound person requires about 70 grams of protein. amount of whichever type you want — calorie-stingy or high-fat — as long as you do so in the context of an overall balanced diet. As always, moderation is your friend. Reprinted with permission from Environmental Nutrition, a monthly publication of Belvoir Media Group, LLC. 1-800-829-5384, EnvironmentalNutrition.com. © 2020 Belvoir Media Group

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When anxiety disorders magnify COVID-19 By John Sharp, M.D. These days, we all have to accept the anxiety inherent in living in the time of the coronavirus pandemic. If there was a way to dispel all anxious feelings, I’d tell you, but there isn’t. The one exception might be someone who could summon such a degree of denial that they carry on as if everything was normal. And that would be very unwise. Anxiety helps us prepare to respond to situations in a more adaptive and healthy way. Some people find it possible to tolerate some degree of discomfort and can manage their anxiety in a healthy manner. Often that’s because they have done well under this kind of challenge already, albeit in very different contexts. Life has a way of requiring this. Yet other people — particularly people who have anxiety disorders — may understandably be having trouble coping. Anxiety disorders take many forms and affect many people. So, what happens now if you’re someone who has suffered way too much already with a pre-existing anxiety disorder? For example, perhaps you have been, or could be, diagnosed with panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or

obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Hopefully, you may find that the tips below will help you cope more successfully with what we are all facing together in these unprecedented times.

Seek professional support Talking to a mental health professional can bolster your ability to address present concerns and help you clarify where your feelings are coming from. When you’re feeling extra worried or overwhelmed, it could be that some of your feelings are from the present challenge, and some are from challenges you have faced in the past. Many psychotherapists and health plans are offering telehealth visits during this time. Ask your therapist or insurance plan if this is an option. If you search for therapists in your area, their websites may tell you whether they participate in telehealth. Additionally, some national telehealth apps offer therapy via video or audio chat.

Something to do on your own Even without the aid of a therapist, you can try to determine where your feelings

are coming from. Doing this work can allow you to take a breath and divvy up the different emotional contributions that feed how you’re feeling. Try saying this, for example: “Of course, I’m more concerned than (my roommate/my friend/my family), because I’m practiced at feeling anxious or helpless.” The next step is to recognize that the percentage of feelings that stem from the past do not have to govern how you feel in the present. Try saying this out loud: “Well, that was then, and this is now.” A simple statement like this can actually open the door to some significant relief. Gently remind yourself of this crucial separation, cleaving the past from the present. And kindly and reassuringly remind yourself that you have the resources — both internal and external — to manage your feelings and reactions now. This is crucially important.

Provide yourself with guidance As often as you need to hear it, tell yourself the following: “I can manage. I can practice what I know to be helpful, and I know that in managing my feelings and reactions I can seek support from a few close friends. “Further, I can seek the support of a mental health professional when needed. By combining these strategies, I will be able to settle my nerves in order to be able

Protein From page 11

More may help older adults Older adults may benefit from increasing protein slightly, regardless of their exercise routine. Research suggests older adults and exercisers looking to support muscle growth may benefit from eating one-and-a-half to two times as much protein as the RDA. As we age, we lose muscle, and research shows boosting protein may help increase strength and lean body mass. But unless you have a restricted diet, such as a strict plant-based or vegan regimen, this increase is often still achievable through food. For those looking to enhance the muscle growth that typically occurs with exercise, evidence supports consuming 20 to 40 grams of protein at a time (roughly the amount found in a can of tuna).

to make healthy choices.” This kind of mantra bears repeating over and over. This is not “fake it till you make it.” This is believing in yourself and believing in a course of action that you can set in motion. Try to believe that, together with supportive others, this self-guidance and this plan will work for you. Know that in many instances, people who have known tremendous adversity and even trauma are able to demonstrate a strength forged from those circumstances. This is entirely consistent with human abilities.

Draw on what you’ve learned We are wired for fight or flight. But as a colleague of mine noted, the present situation does not require either of these. If you’re a human who’s been challenged by anxiety in the past, I encourage you now to draw upon what you’ve learned in terms of how you can manage successfully. Separating out feelings from the past, reminding yourself that you have the strength and ability in the present to prevail, seeing a path forward for yourself and setting yourself upon that path is the way forward. If along that way you should stumble and fall, picture yourself as able to pick yourself back up and carry on. Reassure yourself that the basic provisions for your safety and well-being are within your power to meet. © 2020 by Harvard University. Larger quantities simply contribute calories and can actually reduce muscle-building potential. So, having several scoops of protein powder at once is unlikely to be helpful. Plant-based powders often have less protein, but shouldn’t be discarded as an option. Rice and pea protein, for example, have been shown to stimulate muscle growth similar to whey, a milk-based protein touted for its high quality and quick absorption. Unless you are an older adult with a limited appetite, have a restricted diet, or are a trained professional athlete, chances are you can adjust your food intake to get what you need. Protein from food is often cheaper, carries fewer risks, and naturally includes beneficial nutrients. If increasing protein the old-fashioned way is not an option, taking a supplement can be both effective and convenient. But most of us don’t need to channel our inner Mr. Olympia by using a protein powder. © 2020 by Harvard University

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Understanding COVID’s divergent results By Lauran Neergaard and Candice Choi One of COVID-19’s scariest mysteries is why some people are mildly ill or have no symptoms, while others rapidly die — and scientists are starting to unravel why. An international team of researchers found that in some people with severe COVID-19, the body goes rogue and attacks one of its own key immune defenses instead of fighting the coronavirus. Most were men, helping to explain why the virus is hitting men harder than women. And separate research suggests that children fare better than adults thanks to robust “first responder” immune cells that wane with age. They’re the latest in a list of studies uncovering multiple features of the immune system’s intricate cascade that can tip the scales between a good or bad outcome. Next up: Figuring out if all these new clues might offer much-needed ways to intervene. “We have the knowledge and capability of really boosting many aspects of the immune system. But we need to not use the sledge hammer,” cautioned Dr. Betsy Herold of New York’s Albert Einstein College of Medicine, who co-authored the child study. Adding to the complexity, people’s wild-

ly varying reactions also reflect other factors, such as how healthy they were to begin with and how much of the virus — the “dose” — they were exposed to. “Infection and what happens after infection is a very dynamic thing,” said Alessandro Sette, a researcher at the La Jolla Institute for Immunology in San Diego, who is studying yet another piece of the immune response.

Immune system primer There are two main arms of the immune system. Innate immunity is the body’s first line of defense. As soon as the body detects a foreign intruder, key molecules, such as interferons and inflammationcausing cytokines, launch a wide-ranging attack. Innate immune cells also alert the slower-acting “adaptive” arm of the immune system, the germ-specific sharpshooters, to gear up. B cells start producing virusfighting antibodies, the proteins getting so much attention in the vaccine hunt. But antibodies aren’t the whole story. Adaptive immunity’s many other ingredients include “killer” T cells that destroy virus-infected cells — and “memory” T and B cells that remember an infection so they can spring into action quicker if they encounter that germ again.

Missing in some people Usually when a virus invades a cell, proteins called Type I interferons spring into action, defending the cell by interfering with viral growth. But new research shows those crucial molecules were essentially absent in a subset of people with severe COVID-19. An international project uncovered two reasons. In blood from nearly 1,000 severe COVID-19 patients, researchers found 1 in 10 had what are called auto-antibodies —

antibodies that mistakenly attack those needed virus fighters. Especially surprising, autoimmune disorders tend to be more common in women — but 95% of these COVID-19 patients were men. The researchers didn’t find the damaging molecules in patients with mild or asymptomatic COVID-19. In another 660 severely ill patients, the same team found 3.5% had gene mutations See COVID, page 15

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Health Studies

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

INFORMATION ON AREA CLINICAL TRIALS

Two area COVID studies offering plasma By Margaret Foster As the pandemic continues, scientists are working hard to find effective treatments to prevent COVID-19 or decrease the severity of symptoms — without hospitalization. One of those possible treatments is from blood; specifically, human coronavirus immune plasma. Patients receive a plasma transfusion from someone who has defeated and recovered from COVID-19, and antibodies in that plasma fight the virus and help the body recover. Johns Hopkins researchers are conducting two important clinical trials with this convalescent plasma. They’re seeking hundreds of volunteers at many sites for the randomized, controlled, double-blind phase 2 trials. “The whole idea is to prevent people from going to the hospital,” said Dr. David Sullivan, principal investigator. “We think our studies will help society get back to functioning normally,” Sullivan said. “If people knew they could get early treat-

ment and avoid the hospital, I think they’d feel better about re-engaging in activities.”

Have you been exposed? One study, known as the “early treatment” study, is for COVID-positive people who have had symptoms ranging from severe, such as fever and cough, to mild, such as loss of taste and smell, for fewer than eight days. If enrolled, patients will receive a plasma transfusion relatively early in the disease progression. “We think it’s better to apply the antibodies right after you start showing symptoms,” Sullivan said. “We let you recover at home. Then we see you at two weeks and a month [later].” The other study, which Sullivan calls the “infection prevention” study, is for asymptomatic people who’ve been exposed to the virus within the past four days and test negative. So, for example, if a member of your household tested positive recently, you could potentially enroll

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in the study. “If we do show that administering antibodies early decreases the time of infection transmission, maybe you could just quarantine for three or four days,” Sullivan said. It’d be nice not to quarantine for 10 to 14 days, right?”

One quick transfusion, a few visits Open to adults over 18, both studies require three or four visits, including a plasma transfusion that takes less than an hour, or “one and done,” as Sullivan put it. “That’s the beauty of it — the antibodies last for three to six weeks.” Then there are several follow-up visits, including one three months later. Patients can receive transfusions at Johns Hopkins or Anne Arundel Medical Center. Unlike certain medications, plasma is safe even for pregnant women. In fact, Sullivan is so confident in the trials’ safety that, when his brother contracted the virus, he helped enroll him in the study. Within a few days of the transfusion, he said, his brother recovered. So far, 55 patients have received a transfusion in the early treatment study at Hop-

kins, and almost 200 have participated throughout the country. About 50 people across the country have received a transfusion for the infection prevention study, and locally, 25 patients have been transfused at one of three Hopkins campus locations in the Baltimore area. The age range of patients is wide. “I’ve transfused people in their 70s and 80s. It’s personal, because that’s the age of my parents. I’m doing it for them,” Dr. Sullivan said. “That’s why we’re working so hard, to quickly prove that you don’t have to go to the hospital to get treatment for this disease.” The twin studies are sponsored by the State of Maryland, Bloomberg Foundation, U.S. Department of Defense, and the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. Compensation of $200, along with free parking, is available. Sullivan said he thanks his patients for volunteering to help find an outpatient treatment for COVID-19. “They can really make a difference and be part of the solution.” To find out more, or to volunteer, call 1888-506-1199 or visit CovidPlasmaTrial.org.

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COVID From page 13 that didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t produce Type I interferons. Each of those silent vulnerabilities was enough to tip the balance in favor of the virus early on, said Dr. Jean-Laurent Casanova, an infectious disease geneticist at Rockefeller University in New York, who co-leads the COVID Human Genetic Effort. Certain interferons are used as medicines and are under study as a possible COVID-19 treatment. The auto-antibody discovery adds another factor to consider.

Kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; immunity revs fast Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not clear why children appear less at risk from COVID-19. But occasionally theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re sick enough for hospitalization, giving Heroldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s team the opportunity to compare 60 adults and 65 children and teens at New Yorkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Montefiore Health System. The children produced much higher levels of certain cytokines that are among the

innate immune systemâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first responders. When the immune systemâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s next stage kicked in, both adults and children made antibodies targeting the coronavirus. Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the rub: The adultsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; adaptive immune response was more the type that can trigger an inflammatory overreaction. The findings suggest kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; early robust reaction lets their immune system get ahead of the virus, making an overreaction less likely â&#x20AC;&#x153;and thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s protecting them,â&#x20AC;? Herold said.

Pre-existing immunity? The coronavirus that causes COVID-19 is new to humans. But Setteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s team studied blood samples that were stored in freezers before the pandemic and found some harbored memory T cells that recognized a tiny portion of the new virus in laboratory tests. â&#x20AC;&#x153;You can actually tell that this is an experienced T cell. This has seen combat before,â&#x20AC;? Sette said. Researchers in Germany, Britain and other countries have made similar findings.

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The new coronavirus has cousins that cause as many as 30% of common colds, so researchers believe those T cells could be remnants from past colds. But despite the speculation, â&#x20AC;&#x153;we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know yetâ&#x20AC;? that having those T cells makes any difference in who gets seriously sick with COVID-19, noted Rory de Vries, coauthor of a study in the Netherlands that also found such T cells in old blood. All these findings beg for a deeper understanding of the myriad ways some people can be more susceptible than others. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We need to look quite broadly and not jump into premature conclusions about

any one particular facet of the immune system,â&#x20AC;? said Stanford University immunologist Bali Pulendran. He also has found some innate immune cells â&#x20AC;&#x153;in a state of hibernationâ&#x20AC;? in seriously ill adults, and next is looking for differences before and after people get sick. But, â&#x20AC;&#x153;itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not just all about the immune system,â&#x20AC;? cautioned Dr. Anita McElroy, a viral immunity expert at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s closely watching the research. As for a way to tell in advance whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most at risk? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re a long, long way from that,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x201D;AP

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Ginger reduces pain, may boost memory Ginger is something you’ve probably walked past a thousand times in the grocery store and may have passed up. It has some incredible medicinal benefits and offers people a natural approach to many ailments. Many women use ginger for morning sickness during pregnancy. Sometimes you see it crystallized with sugar to improve flavor. But today I’m talking about the fresh ginger root you can buy in food markets.

Pain relief, including arthritis We may think of fresh or powdered ginger as a flavor agent, but ginger is powerful medicine. It is an antioxidant and a strong analgesic. Known officially as Zingiber officinale, ginger contains many therapeutic compounds, all of which have well-documented medicinal actions in the body. In studies with people who ate dried ginger spice in their meals, 75% experienced relief from arthritic pain and swelling. Ginger con-

tains dozens of compounds that have pharma- ROS free radicals means it protects your DNA and mitochondria. In fact, ginger procological activity. motes mitochondrial health. Sometimes you have to heat or dry the ginger to extract a Mitochondria store energy specific compound. For examfor you in the form of ATP, ple, zingerone is negligible in and ginger root increases fresh ginger; however, cooking ATP production, according to it transforms the gingerol to one NIH study last year. zingerone. Fortunately, the If you have liver disease or dried (powdered) ginger spice hepatic injury (for example, does contain zingerone. alcohol-related, or hepatitis), Zingerone is well researched, consider ginger in all of your and it’s incredible. Studies have DEAR recipes because studies show determined that it reduces in- PHARMACIST that zingerone has a hepatoflammation, regulates blood By Suzy Cohen protective effect. Here’s another fun fact: sugar, eases muscle pain and spasms, helps with arthritis, speeds fat Ginger might have some heavy-metal binding abilities, because it can reduce cadmibreakdown and ramps up immune function. In an animal study, ginger compounds um levels, according to animal studies. It can also reduce the body’s burden of protected rodents from brain damage and memory loss, so now drug companies are organophosphate pesticides. If you have a trying to morph it and patent it into an PON1 gene, make ginger your friend! Not only does ginger spice up your recipes, Alzheimer’s drug. I say just eat it! However, it can thin the it makes for a delicious tea. blood, so you have to avoid or minimize it if This information is opinion only. It is not you are taking anticoagulant medications. intended to treat, cure or diagnose your condition. Consult with your doctor before using any new drug or supplement. Fights free radicals Ginger can block your enzyme xanthine Suzy Cohen is a registered pharmacist oxidase, which is good because that re- and the author of The 24-Hour Pharmacist duces ROS (reactive oxygen species). and Real Solutions from Head to Toe. To The fact that ginger can degrade these contact her, visit SuzyCohen.com.

Say you saw it in the Beacon

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

Jewelers work with color, beauty and joy her basement studio, where the three of them create jewelry to give to their teachers and bus driver. If the kids ask her if they can touch or keep some of her treasures, she said, “Most of the time I say yes.”

By Margaret Foster Ask any of the three winners of the Stained Glass and Jewelry category why they spend hours creating intricate works, and they’ll say the same thing: Because it makes them happy. The category’s juror, Maryland art designer and instructor Jill Tannenbaum, was pleased with the three winners and eight honorable mentions. “Overall, the quality was impressive,” Tannenbaum said of all the entries.

Second Place

Woodland Peace

By Lori Ann Grant

Grant’s first-place piece, “Woodland Peace,” is a pendant made from sterling silver and Variscite, a soft rock similar to turquoise. “It’s a sea foam green that I just love. I like to run my fingers across it all the time; it just feels nice.” Envisioning a nature theme, Grant made silver castings from twigs she picked up in her yard. She bought leaf-shaped stamps from a Native American artist and arranged them around the stone. She uses Argentium sterling silver, a higher-grade sterling that doesn’t tarnish. The alloy takes some skill to work with, however. “When you’re soldering it, it just crumbles like dirt, and you’re like, ‘Oh man, that didn’t work.’” Grant still works two 10-hour days a week at a local animal hospital. “The rest of the time, I sit down in my basement and I make jewelry, and the time flies by,” she said. Now Grant is a grandmother herself. Her grandchildren, ages 9 and 12, live nearby — and they are always welcome in

By Meredith Weiser

See JEWELRY, page 19

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

Sculptors, carvers use humble materials By Catherine Brown American sculptor Malvina Hoffman wrote in 1939 that “sculpture is a parable in three dimensions, a symbol of spiritual experience, and a means of conveying truth by concentrating its essence into visible form.” Whether it involves building up materials like clay or carving away stone, sculpture can tell a distinct story, memorializing a person, a moment in time, or even an emotion. The three artists whose work won the top three awards in the Beacon’s Celebration of the Arts contest create differently, but all of their works convey a narrative, a parable in three dimensions.

First Place Pearl Chang Rockville, Md. Pearl Chang, 77, has always had an interest in art and loves visiting museums and galleries. “I [taught] myself how to see things in the art,” Chang said. Until she retired seven years ago, how-

ever, Chang was too busy with her job in immigration policy and strategy to create her own art. After retiring, Chang began taking sculpture and Spanish classes at Montgomery College. “I started from scratch,” Chang said. “I had never handled clay before.” Chang imitated other artists until she was comfortable enough to develop her own style. Along the way, she developed a love for expressive sculpture. “Expressive sculpture can put a lot of ideas in one type of work and mean different things to different people,” Chang said. Chang’s award-winning sculpture, “Solace,” presents a child being comforted by a loved one whose hands rest on their shoulders. “The work conveys a story,” Chang said. She was inspired by a photograph of a grandson resting his head in his grandmother’s lap. That made Chang think about how much support and care kids need from their families, especially with the prevalence of bullying. Chang also thought of her own experiences as a child. She used to get migraines, and her mother would gently pat her head until she was able to go to sleep. At its essence, the work conveys the love and support of a caregiver for a child. Chang also received an Honorable Mention for her work “Introspection.” Solace

By Pearl Chang

Second Place A. Barry Belman Rockville, Md. Barry Belman, 82, spent his career as a pediatric urologist. “I worked with my hands in 3D all my life,” he said. When he retired about 10 years ago, he started taking classes at Montgomery College, first in clay, and then in wood and stone.

said. Once the idea took hold, Belman spent time trying to figure out how to create the work. Marble offers little flexibility; he couldn’t add onto the piece if he had taken too much away, he could only subtract. “It’s a good challenge,” Belman said. “Creating art is gratifying emotionally and psychologically.” Belman’s decades of experience working as a surgeon and training other surgeons prepared him for the challenge of visualizing a work of art and thinking about it in terms of depth, height and width. “As a surgeon, I wasn’t aware that I was thinking about my work in that way, but I was,” he said. While he originally named the piece “Captive,” on further consideration, he said he should have named it Coronavirus. “It’s perfect for what we’re all going through,” Belman said.

Third Place

Captive

By A. Barry Belman

Belman created “Captive” for an assignment after a classmate gave him a block of marble he no longer wanted to use. Every day for months, the block of marble sat in his garage as he contemplated what to do with it. One day, Belman felt inspired to create a face imprisoned in the block. “It was just a subconscious idea that jumped out,” he

Addison Likins La Plata, Md. Addison Likins, 72, first realized he was interested in art when he won a contest in second grade. “We didn’t have art in my high school,” Likins said, “so I didn’t have any formal instruction.” Likens has worked as a reporter, editor, teacher and analyst, but he honed his artistic skills while working for the Maryland Science Center, where he created sculptural exhibits that helped demonstrate scientific principles. See SCULPTORS, page 20

Ceramics artists like to ‘play in the mud’ By Margaret Foster To make pottery or ceramic work, artists become very familiar with the concept of transformation. First they transform a gray lump of clay into a shape — which is easier said than done. Next the work gains color, or glaze. Finally, the work is dried and transformed by heat. After years of experience, the winners of this year’s Ceramics/Pottery category are accustomed to experimenting with clay.

First Place Leigh Partington Washington Grove, Md. Leigh Partington, who attended the Rhode Island School of Design, has a background in illustration and design. But “hand-building and sculpting is my thing,” she said. She first “got into ceramics” at Glen Echo Park, where, on a whim, she took a

Cat Sculpture

By Leigh Partington

pottery class. “I said, what the heck — it’s for us fuddy-duddies. I wasn’t expecting anything.” It was more difficult than she expected,

but in a good way. She got hooked. During the long days of the pandemic, Partington has kept busy by making animals out of clay. “It’s one of my saviors with this pandemic. I’m just nonstop,” she said. Partington launched her own art class tutoring business, which she called Playin’ in the Mud, more than two decades ago. She has been teaching art classes to children for 25 years, most recently at the Gaithersburg Arts Barn. “The kids are the ones that sustain me,” she said, noting that two of her former students went on to study fine art in college. For kids, “everything is new; everything is amazing.” Her winning porcelain piece, “Cat Sculpture,” was one of a series of sculptures of cats and owls. The whimsical piece wasn’t based on her two pets, however; she created it spontaneously. “I just made that one up because it’s obviously not anatomically correct,” she said. Juror Joan Ulrich chose the work because, she wrote in a juror’s statement,

“The artist exhibits a deft hand with porcelain, a famously unforgiving clay body. Stance and expression are well considered, the temptation to over-stylize is avoided.” Partington also won an honorable mention for her work titled “Petri Platter.”

Second Place Barbara Frey Potomac, Md. Barbara Frey, 85, has had a busy life — and she’s still remarkably busy, creating dozens of decorative pots each month. “In my younger days, I skied in the Rockies, did hot air ballooning, did parasailing and also did open-ocean sailing in the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico in 38-foot sailboats,” Frey said in an email. The wife of a brain research scientist, Frey has two children and four grandchildren. See CERAMICS, page 21

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Celebration of the Arts

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

Photography winners have a special eye By Catherine Brown Almost anyone can take a photograph. With all the technology available to us through our phones and cameras, most of us can capture a moment in time. It requires a special talent, though, to take an artistic photograph. Photographers must pay attention to details the novice might not even notice, from framing the scene to considering the light and shadow. Over time, the three award-winning artists listed below have honed their photographic skills so that, amid a proliferation of visual imagery, their images stand out.

First Place David Allen Corbell Ellicott City, Md. About a decade ago, David Allen Corbell, 56, decided he wanted to learn more

Jewelry From page 17 other. I just love it,” said Bulman, who has a design background. His sterling silver ring titled “Peaks” won third prize in the Beacon’s contest. Last month, six pieces of his jewelry were included in a show at Glen Echo. Bulman works about three or four hours a day creating jewelry. His wife, daughter and daughter-in-law get first dibs on his creations.

Lotus

By David Allen Corbell

“If they don’t like it, it goes in the drawer,” he said, noting that he has about 60 unclaimed pieces he plans to sell. Next Bulman plans to establish an LLC so he can start selling his pieces on Shopify. “I’m not going to make a living out of it; I just enjoy it,” he said. Showing and selling his work has given the restaurateur deep satisfaction. “I’m excited about it,” Bulman said. “Finding something that I can do that I love — I’m in my late 70s — is great. So, if I ever retire, I still have this,” he said.

about photography, so he taught himself using a Nikon Coolpix 300. “I played around with the camera and did some research online until I figured out what worked for me,” Corbell said. He picked up the basics pretty quickly and moved from that Coolpix to professional cameras. The hobby began purely as recreation, but about seven years ago, Corbell developed a side job photographing weddings, graduations and individuals. He works full-time as a systems administrator. While photography has become a source of income for Corbell, he still enjoys it as a hobby. On the weekends, Corbell enjoys visiting interesting locations where he can take photos purely for pleasure. “Photography is relaxing for me,” he said. “There is peacefulness in finding the right composition.” Corbell took his award-winning photo of a lotus flower while visiting Longwood

Honorable Mentions Marylou Bono, Gaithersburg, Md. Clarice Burrell, Baltimore, Md. Regine Camacho, Falls Church, Va. Thomas S. Corbit, Olney, Md. Lori Ann Grant, Locus Grove, Va. Nathalie Pouliquen, Bethesda, Md. Lisa M. Scarbath, Ellicott City, Md. Meredith Weiser, North Bethesda, Md. Peaks

By Jeff Bulman

Gardens in Pennsylvania. “It’s hard to find a lotus in full bloom without it looking like a showerhead,” Corbell said. When he found this bloom, he captured it in a one-shot take. Corbell doesn’t like to do much processing of his photos afterwards; instead he works hard to capture the image he wants in the moment. “You have to be versatile, and you have to look ahead to what might happen.” Corbell said.

Second Place Raymond Finkleman Damascus, Md. When Raymond Finkelman, 68, retired in 2007 from his job as a computer sciSee PHOTOGRAPHY, page 21

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

Mixed media opens up many possibilities By Catherine Brown Creative inspiration can come from surprising places. Often, something we happen upon at a particular moment can generate a reaction in us and lead us down creative paths we might never have anticipated. The three women who won awards for the Celebration of the Arts Mixed Media category have all been artistic for much of their lives. As they’ve gotten older, they have focused more time and attention on channeling inspiration into their own creative outlets.

First Place Young Yi Nottingham, Md. When Young Yi was in high school, her art teacher suggested she apply to art school. “Since I was a child, I’ve liked making things with my hands,” she said. Instead of studying art in college, however, Yi studied computers. Although she has never received formal art training, Yi, 62, has continued to make art throughout her life. About seven years ago, Yi discovered recycled paper arts. “One day, I stopped by a boutique shop while traveling and saw some art objects that caught my attention,” she said. “I was fascinated by them.” She was so interested in these works made out of recycled newspapers that she spent a good deal of time carefully examining and taking pictures of them. She used those photos to teach herself how to make recycled paper crafts. The piece that won first place is one of

Recycled paper art

By Young Yi

Sculptors From page 18 When Likins retired from full-time work, he “went back to his first love” and began exploring photography and sculpture. Until the pandemic, he also worked as a freelance reporter and photographer for the Maryland Independent, in part to support his art habit. “It gets expensive,” Likins said. Likins has exhibited in numerous galleries in D.C. and Maryland, including the Maryland Federation of Arts Circle Gallery in Annapolis and the Fredericksburg Center for the Creative Arts. For Likins’ award-winning sculpture, he created an image of Matthew Henson — the Charles County resident who accompanied

her favorite works. “I made frames of oval shapes with old book pages and filled them with colorful magazine pieces,” Yi said. “Even though it was time-consuming work, I was happy with the result.” This was the first time Yi had ever submitted her work to a contest, and she is delighted to have won a prize. Yi also received Honorable Mention for another recycled paper craft item she made.

Second Place Bevadine Zoma Terrell Washington, D.C. Bevadine Zoma Terrell, 69, moved to D.C. to attend Howard University and never left. “I fell in love with D.C.,” Terrell said, “because of the museums and accessibility of everything.” Terrell has loved art for most of her life, graduating with a bachelor’s and then eventually a master’s in art from Howard. She taught art at junior high and high schools in the District and spent several years working as an assistant principal and principal. After 38 years of working with students, she retired from full-time work. “I vowed I would get back to my art after I retired,” Terrell said. Her mother, who is now 97, would always ask her when she planned to make art again. Although she wanted to pursue her art again, the drive to help kids and make a difference in their lives was strong. Terrell took a job teaching art part-time at a private boys’ school, and directed a summer camp at the Langston Terrace Dwellings housing project. During that time, with humanities grants, she helped children create documentaries about the history of the community and the older adults who still lived there. When Terrell finally retired (again), she committed to returning to art. In 2017, a friend gave her information about an exhibit at the Maryland Art Place, which was seeking masks.

Robert Peary on his mission to the North Pole and claimed to be the first person to actually step onto that unexplored ground. “Henson’s great-great grandson saw the piece at a show and said it looked just like Henson,” Likins said, delighted to have received such high praise from a relative. For this piece, Likins used a material that had been sitting in his workshop for years. Made from insulation that had been ground into fine dust, it works as clay when water is added and then hardens like marble. “It was really tricky to work with,” Likins said, “but as a scientist, I love playing with new materials.” Likins was also awarded an Honorable Mention for his sculpture entitled “Game Over.”

Sister Circle

By Bevadine Zoma Terrell

She spent months brainstorming and then created a mask in her mom’s honor. “I found I kind of liked making masks,” Terrell said. At this point, she has created 60 masks that serve to represent special memories, events, emotions, stories and friends. She said the work she submitted to the Beacon, “Sister Circle,” represents the symbol of divine energy, the circle of girls and women who have been with Terrell throughout her life, through thick and thin. Terrell hopes to eventually create a coffee table book with all of her masks and the many life stories she has to share.

place, “Full Circle,” for a class assignment. She was tasked with representing the past, present and future in one work of art. Trevino found old canvases she had painted in previous years, took them off their frames and tore them in strips. Those strips of painted canvas represented the past, utilized in a work of art created in the present. A close look at the piece reveals the bottom right corner is slightly detached from the frame, suggesting it might become another work of art in the future. While Trevino works full-time traveling to clients’ houses to style hair, she is starting to move forward with a career in the arts. She’s had work in online galleries as well as in Brandeis University’s arts journal, Blacklist, and at the Alleghany Arts Council in Cumberland, Md.

Third Place Lisa Trevino Gaithersburg, Md. Lisa Trevino’s mother painted and drew, so art was always around the house when she was growing up. The 61-year-old hairstylist didn’t spend much time making art, however, until she was in her 30s. “I had two children at home, and I needed to do something,” Trevino said. “When I took classes, I felt like art was what I had been missing all those years.” While working and raising kids, Trevino slowly earned her degree in studio art, taking courses in printmaking, photography and painting. “I earned a four-year degree in 25 years,” Trevino joked. She created the piece that earned third

Honorable Mentions Pearl Chang, Rockville, Md. Addison Likins, La Plata, Md. Doris Herman, Potomac, Md. Elizabeth Steel, Rockville, Md. Christopher Ruch, Ebony, Va. Manny Eisner, Pikesville, Md. Nathalie Pouliquen, Bethesda, Md. Jo-Ann Marshburg Wilson, Bethesda, Md. Patrick James Rowland, Gaithersburg, Md. Nico Ambush, Frederick, Md. Sandra Valeria Franklin, Potomac, Md.

First Man to the North Pole

By Addison Likins

Full Circle

By Lisa Trevino

Honorable Mentions Young Yi, Nottingham, Md. Sarah Lee Province, Silver Spring, Md. Martha Mihaly Black, Annapolis, Md. Frances Laughlin, Dundalk, Md. Clare Wilson, Silver Spring, Md. Cathe Hart Kervan, Mechanicsville, Va. Marylou Bono, Gaithersburg, Md. Nancy Carlin, North Potomac, Md. Jenny Harvey, Chester, Va. Thomas Corbit, Olney, Md.

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Celebration of the Arts

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

Ceramics From page 18 Frey creates pottery from her home in Potomac. She has a fully equipped studio at her house, complete with a motorized wheel, an electric kiln and a pug mill — a machine for mixing and working clay and other materials. “I’m an artist who throws pots on a

wheel and usually alters them. I generally make them out of porcelain,” Frey said. “Most of my pots are intended for display.” Frey’s winning piece is wheel-thrown stoneware. To make her decorative pots, she first puts clay through a pug mill to achieve the consistency she wants. Then she throws clay on a wheel, a refined skill that takes hours of practice. She alters and trims the pot when it’s partially dry. When the piece is completely dry, she puts it in the kiln. The next day, she glazes the pot and sometimes returns it to the kiln to fire at a higher temperature to get the look she wants. “Many of the pots I then alter to create unique effects that have occurred to me. That [winning] pot I altered to give it an interesting shape, and glazed it to create an unusual surface pattern and color.”

Third Place

Decorative pot

By Barbara Frey

Photography From page 19 entist for the U.S. Army, he found a new passion in photography. Since 1996, Finkelman had also coached fencing, a sport that has been a part of his life since he was a teenager. When he retired from the Army, Finkelman began traveling the world to watch his athletes compete. When he traveled to Turkey for the World Championships in 2007, he bought his first Nikon camera. “I thought to myself, ‘If I’m going to Turkey, I might as well bring a good camera,’” Finkelman said. Before that trip, Finkelman had been interested in photography, but he hadn’t

Janet Mazor Baltimore, Md. Baltimore resident Janet Mazor didn’t find her passion until she retired more than 15 years ago and happened to take a pottery course at the JCC. “I had never done it before and was looking for something to do,” she said. “As soon as I walked through the class and

taken it seriously. His travels around the world changed that. “I started to approach photography from an artistic point of view,” Finkelman said. The more he traveled, the bigger role photography played in his life. Finkelman began to enjoy taking photos not only during his worldwide travels but also when traveling to Bethany Beach, a favorite vacation spot for 30 years. Now, he always has his iPhone or Nikon with him when he explores the beach. Finkelman took his winning photograph, “Sandals,” while sitting on the beach with his wife. “I like the perspective of the photo, with the sandals up close and the ocean in the distance,” Finkelman said. “The image signifies relaxation, and reminds me of the feeling of having my toes in the sand.” In 2018, the town of Bethany Beach chose one of Finkelman’s images, out of 2,000 submissions, to use in its town calendar. With degrees in physics, astronomy and computer science, Finkelman is getting more interested in using filters to enhance his photography. His goal is to eventually combine his interests and explore astrophotography. During the pandemic, Finkelman is selling face masks adorned with his photographs on his website, bethanybeachphotos.com. Sandals

By Raymond Finkleman

made my first piece — which was horrible — I loved it. It’s so relaxing. I zone out when I make my pottery. I just really concentrate on it.” Since that first “horrible” snowman piece, her style has evolved over the years. Lately, Mazor has been making woven ceramic bread baskets for friends. She also creates ceramic clocks that keep the time. Mazor’s winning piece, “Laila’s Whimsical Watering Can,” was based on a decorative watering can she saw in a store. “I put my own twist on it,” she said, adding beads and wire. Her teacher was a tremendous help, Mazor said. “The teacher I had at the JCC is very encouraging, and he will critique for me. He’s taught me a lot. When I made this piece, he said, ‘I think that’s the best piece you’ve ever made.’ It meant a lot.” Ulrich noted that the work required the assembly of many parts, “representing dozens of decisions with attention to color, scale and shape in space,” she wrote in her juror’s statement. “When I started this [watering can]. I had no idea what I was doing or if I would even like it,” Mazor said. “Sometimes when I make a piece, I start making it and it doesn’t come out the way I see it — but I like it better. “When I won [this] award, I was so happy because it took me a long time to get there.”

Laila's Whimsical Watering Can

By Janet Mazor

After 15 years, Mazor still gets excited about each new creation. She urges others to experiment with clay, too. “My passion is to get a piece of clay in my hand and start working with it,” she said. “People should try it. If you’re good with your hands, I’d just go for it. Just try it.” Honorable Mention Leigh Partington, Gaithersburg, Md.

Third Place Beth Altman Washington, D.C. Beth Altman works in private practice as a psychotherapist in downtown D.C. But when she’s not working, she pursues a longstanding interest: abstract and street photography. “I like to go out where there are people congregating, like at street festivals,” Altman said. Altman has been interested in photography for much of her life, but she began devoting more of her attention to it about 10 years ago. She has since participated in many formal workshops and classes and is an active member of the North Bethesda Camera Club as well as the NIH Camera Club. Altman now regularly shows her work and has participated in exhibitions at local galleries, including the Maryland Federation of Art, the BlackRock Center for the Arts, Penn Place at Garrett Park and Joseph Miller Abstract Photography Exhibits. Her award-winning photograph, “Kitty,” was shot at an event in Baltimore’s Graffiti Alley, where photographers and aspiring models are given a chance to work together. The events are mutually beneficial: Photographers meet potential models, and models can build their portfolios. “This particular woman [Kitty] was a natural and was fun to work with,” Altman said. “I liked her expression and the way her presentation blended in with the

Kitty

By Beth Altman

background in terms of color palette and the grunge factor.”

Honorable Mentions Lynn Schmitt, Montgomery Village, Md. Richard Isaacman, Edgewater, Md. Harvey Kupferberg, Rockville, Md. Keith Brace, Baltimore, Md. Warren Wilson, Lanham, Md. Vella Kendall, Monkton, Md. Alan Simmons, Rockville, Md. Stephen Robinson, Rockville, Md. Howard Clark, Montgomery Village, Md.

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Drawing winners have eye for fine detail By Margaret Foster A well accomplished drawing can leap off the page. Although Leonardo’s famous drawings of the human form are no more than ink on paper, their faces and muscles seem to have three-dimensional depth and texture. The winners of the Drawing category have a similar way with pen and paper. This year, all the winners, including the honorable mentions, are women.

First Place Ruth Sentelle Gaithersburg, Md. On an Alaskan cruise years ago, Ruth Sentelle visited a coastal village. She noticed the remnants of a dock on dry land and took a photograph of the stranded pilings. “Over the years the water had receded,” said Sentelle, now 80. “I thought that it had such character to have endured all that

time. I just wanted to capture its personality and character, so I decided to draw it.” Sentelle must have done something right. Juror Andrei Trach said he selected her drawing for first place because “it wasn’t just an ordinary piling; it had a lot of character to it.” Although Sentelle had been drawing throughout her life, it wasn’t until the 1990s that she started taking classes at the Gaithersburg Art Barn near her home. “It’s a great community of artists,” she said, noting that she met good friends through the classes. Sentelle draws for pleasure, but she was pleased to receive a check with her firstplace prize from the Beacon for her graphite pencil drawing. “It was overwhelming to get a monetary prize. My word, when that check came, I was just floored,” Sentelle said. “It’s very generous and a good incentive for other people to enter the contest.”

Second Place

Old Piling in Alaska

By Ruth Sentelle

Angela White Alexandria, Va. Ever since Angela White was in high school in Chicago, she knew her life would have to balance both a career and a passion for art. White decided to pursue a career in law enforcement but kept creating art when she had time. “I went to school for criminal justice, but I had this other passion,” she said.

Looking at everyday people is one of White’s pastimes. With a photographic eye, she observes others and later sketches their heads — usually a profile or the back of their heads rather than a face. “If I’m at the grocery store in line, instead of looking at the food, I’m looking at the heads, drawing them [in my mind] while I’m watching someone,” White said.

Third Place Patricia Grimes Silver Spring, Md. How long does it take Patricia Grimes, who is in her 70s, to complete a drawing? “Oh, about two hours an inch,” she said, laughing. Everyday People

By Angela White

In 2002, when White was recovering from surgery, she started drawing to survive. She sketched angels, she said, “when I was in the hospital, looking out the window at the clouds. That helped get me through the surgery and the pain,” she said. The thrill of drawing intrigues White, now 50 and retired from a career as a Chicago law enforcement officer. “I find it relaxing, but it’s also an adventure for me…I don’t know what it’s going to be until the end, so that feels exciting, like an adventure.” White’s drawing “Everyday People,” which won second prize, depicts the backs of dozens of people’s heads. It “stood out,” said juror Trach, calling it interesting and different. “It’s about everybody being an individual,” Trach said.

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Painters focus on unconventional topics By Margaret Foster The painting category of the Celebration of the Arts has the potential to elicit dramatic, unusual works, and this year was no exception. Rather than traditional landscapes or still lifes, two of the winning paintings depict industrial scenes, and the third is a busy European cityscape.

First Place Ellen Yahuda Chevy Chase, Md. At her 75th birthday celebration, Ellen Yahuda saw a photo of herself at age nine and realized she still has a lot in common with her childhood self. “When I was younger, my parents sent me to ballet classes and art classes,” she said. Today, she’s still dancing and painting. Yahuda grew up in Philadelphia and lived in Cambridge, England, for 35 years, working as a criminal attorney. When she returned to the United States in 2003, she began taking art classes at American University’s Osher Learning Institute. She started with a collage class, but found “It wasn’t enough,” she said. She went on to study with Rockville teacher Glen Kessler, completing his three-year Master Artist Program in 2019, she said, “and I never stopped.”

Pipe Dreams

By Ellen Yahuda

Drawing From page 22 Grimes’ winning drawing, “Big Ben,” drew the juror’s attention because of its detail. “It caught my eye because it was very meticulous,” Trach said. “It was clear [she] had spent a lot of time on it.” Grimes graduated from college with a degree in fine arts and a minor in teaching elementary school art. She worked as an art teacher at elementary schools in Montgomery County for 28 years. After she retired, she taught art to two-year-olds at a

Yahuda’s first-place oil painting, “Pipe Dreams,” depicts machines in her father’s factory in Bensalem, Pennsylvania. Her father designed the machinery, and her son built them. The subject matter, Yahuda said, “reflects my personality. It’s power and movement. I don’t sit still.” The painting’s gritty atmosphere is a nod to her work as a criminal lawyer. “The factory machinery really speaks to the seediness and down-to-earth [life]. I see the beauty in it, I see the shininess next to the rust and the abstract design on the ceiling.” Now, in the middle of a pandemic, Yahuda is undergoing cancer treatment. Yet she still paints three or four hours every day. When she’s not painting, she is cooking, she said. Zoom makes it easier to keep up with art classes at home, Yahuda said, and she refuses to slow down. “I have better things to do than think about cancer.”

Old Munich

By Ray Goodrow

Goodrow’s winning watercolor, “Munich,” is based on a photograph he took on a trip to that city more than 20 years ago. “I delve back into my photo archive that goes way back because now I have time to paint,” Goodrow said. “Sometimes the buildings are demolished. Sometimes the scenes don’t exist anymore, so it’s kind of fun.”

“My professors kept telling me I needed to have a concept. I would joke with them, ‘I don’t understand the concept of a concept!’” Balancing a job and family life, Collins spent a decade completing the master’s program. One day, she retreated to her basement to paint the boiler. Then, she painted some pipes at a Metro station downtown. She added or enhanced colors to reflect the mood of the painting, she said, and a concept was born. “I thought, ‘I really like this, it’s very enjoyable to me,’” Collins said. “I feel very fortunate that I found a passion like that.” Collins said that between art and accounting, her brain is always occupied. “[Painting uses] a very different part of my brain than doing the accounting for my companies. It gives me a way to look at things outside the box.”

Second Place Third Place

Ray Goodrow Washington, D.C. Ray Goodrow worked as a commercial architect in D.C. for decades. After he retired five years ago, he picked up a paintbrush for the first time since he was a child. First, he took several art classes at the Torpedo Factory in Alexandra, Virginia. “That’s a good way to get involved in the art scene in our area,” Goodrow said. “The more you do it, the better you get.” Goodrow has had a successful year. One of his cityscapes won a “best in show” award at a Torpedo Factory competition in June. He has sold 15 paintings in 2020. He’s also president of the McLean Art Society, a local group that meets once a month to watch artist demonstrations. With a background in historic preservation, Goodrow started out painting buildings and cityscapes. Lately, the artist has moved on to living subjects. “Now, I’ve really gotten to where I like doing people, different scenes with people. I also do cows,” he said, noting that he grew up in Texas. “I don’t paint just one thing.”

Gillian Collins Gaithersburg, Md. When Gillian Collins goes on vacation, she tends to snap photos not of prominent landmarks but of pipes, antique fixtures or valves. Her painting “Italian Valve” was inspired by a photograph she took in Florence, Italy. “I like those geometric patterns. It’s a functioning thing, and I’m making beauty out of it. I’m divorcing the function from the form.” Born in England, Collins, 64, has been painting for 35 years, although not fulltime. In her day job, she does the accounting for the plumbing company and HVAC company she co-owns. In December 2019, she received her Master of Fine Arts from Towson State University. It was there that she found her “voice” as a painter and her industrial subject matter. Collins started as a plein air painter, focusing on outdoor landscapes, but became bored, she said. Her professors encouraged her to delve deeper.

Maryland nursery school. During her career and home life, she said, “I did a lot of arty things, but I never did [art] like I had done at school. When you have kids, you don’t have time to do that stuff. So, I dabbled.” Later in life, she returned to art, taking a watercolor painting course at Montgomery College. “When I tried it, I thought, ‘Oh, I can do things I want to do now,’” Grimes recalled. Now Grimes lives in Leisure World in Silver Spring, Maryland, where she takes art classes. She took a drawing course and worked in the community’s open studio on

weekends. To her surprise, she said, “I found I actually could draw again. It’s a nice pastime… It’s something that I like to do, and actually I’m not too bad at it.” Grimes enjoys drawing cathedrals, lighthouses and other architectural works. Her latest interest, she said, is clocks. Her winning pencil drawing is based on a photo she took on a trip to London with her husband. “Big Ben” took her about two months to complete. “I’m so picky,” Grimes explained. “If it’s a lot of detail, it takes a good while. I work

Italian Valve

By Gillian Collins

Honorable Mentions Kenneth Bachman, Bethesda, Md. Phyllis Brent, Baltimore, Md. Gregor y J. Cannizzaro, Parkville, Md. Christine Fendley Greenland, Warrenton, Va. Jacquelyn Harris, Midlothian, Va. Gayle Magruder, Chester, Va. Michael Thomas Mohr, Towson, Md. Carol Morgan, Washington, D.C. Ronie Nieva, Chevy Chase, Md. Juan Antonio Serrano, Silver Spring, Md. Betsy Shelburne, Washington, D.C. Alexandra Margaret TreadawayHoare, Colesville, Md.

on it a little at a time.”

Honorable Mentions Susan Anchors, Germantown, Md. Sandra Cohen, Bethesda, Md. Denise Dallatore, Gaithersburg, Md. Chester Hall, Marriottsville, Md. Barbara Katz, Pikeville, Md. Julianne Mueller, Falls Church, Va. Ruth Sentelle, Gaithersburg, Md. LeAnne Sawyers, North Potomac, Md. Angela White, Silver Spring, Md. Gretchen Whitney, Chevy Chase, Md. Helen Wood, Bethesda, Md.

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A Publication of the Department of Community Resources and Services

Volume 10, No. 12 • December 2020

Get It Done Week Tackles Advance Planning Tasks In these stressful and uncertain times, it can feel like there is so much that is out of our control. That’s why it’s important to lean in and take control of the things we can. Get it Done Week is an opportunity for Howard County residents to do just that. Making plans in advance for your healthcare and ﬁnancial needs is the best tool we have to help prepare for the future. Tiffany Callender, Program Director Horizon Foundation

The Office on Aging and Independence (OAI), in partnership with the Horizon Foundation and the Coalition of Geriatric Services, presents GET IT DONE WEEK December 7-11, a series of virtual educational offerings that address advance care planning topics including caregiving, financial planning, assisted living, home care options, and more. “Each educational session is followed by one-on-one appointments so participants can first learn about a topic, then discuss their situation with a subject matter expert,” says OAI’s Ofelia Ross-Ott, “The goal is to complete an advance planning task that helps "get it done."

Conﬂict Resolution Tuesday, December 10 • 2 to 6 p.m. Examine ways to handle conﬂicts which may arise during the planning process.

Wills, Trusts, Powers of Attorney, and Estates Friday, December 11 • 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Review your personal situation with an expert and learn the appropriate next steps to take to create your individual plan (meet with an attorney, complete an online form, etc.) A full schedule of the week’s activities, including instructions to schedule individual appointments, will be featured in the December issue of OAI’s Virtual Offerings Guide and posted at www.howardcountymd.gov/aging. For more information about this program, visit speakeasyhoward.org/getitdone.

A Message from Howard County Executive

Overview of Get It Done Week Financial and Long-Term Care Insurance Planning Monday, December 7 • 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Advice on long-term care insurance planning, saving for retirement, and how to properly manage assets later in life.

Caregiving Tuesday, December 8 • 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Highlights the Caregiver Support Program and available supports such as the National Family Caregiver Support Grant, one-on-one consultation, resources and ongoing education such as Powerful Tools for Caregivers.

Retirement Living, Assisted Care, and Other Housing Options as You Age Tuesday, December 8 • 1:30 to 6 p.m. Housing options as you age; why staying in your current environment may not be the best choice; how to navigate and pay for housing options at each stage of aging, based on support needs.

Health Insurance Basics Wednesday, December 9 • 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. How to navigate Medicaid and Medicare insurance; how to enroll; and placement opportunities available with private insurance.

Advance Care Planning Thursday, December 10 • 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. How to complete an advance directive on paper or electronically; how to upload existing documents so they’re available electronically; understanding who you can name as your health care agent; and what to do if you don’t have someone to name.

Calvin Ball

s the end of the year quickly approaches, we naturally tend to reflect on the challenges we’ve faced and what we’ve accomplished. Despite the challenges of 2020, there are still bright spots and hope for an upcoming year of renewal and reunion. Our community has continued to support one another when it matters most – checking in on neighbors and friends, buying groceries or offering a helping hand. We can continue that spirit of giving throughout the coming months. For many of our residents, the upcoming holidays may be difficult as families stay apart to stay safe. We can help make the holidays brighter for our neighbors by giving back through Project Holiday. Residents can drop off new gifts at three locations for families in need and low-income older adults who reside in assisted living facilities and in the community. Let’s share the spirit of generosity and kindness that has helped us through this year. While we still face an uphill battle to slow the spread of COVID-19, there are many ways to stay engaged this winter from the comfort and safety of home. Our 50+ centers now offer many activities online; be sure to read through the December Virtual Offerings Guide for ideas to stay active and connected this month, including the 50+ virtual fitness pass. The monthly pass is a great value and provides unlimited access to a wide variety of fitness classes for all levels. Visit www.howardcountymd.gov/aging for details or call 410-313-5440 to enroll. However you choose to spend your holidays, please continue to wear a mask, wash your hands frequently, and practice physical distancing. We want all our residents to remain safe and healthy.

The 50+ Connection

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50+ Fitness Pass Offers Value and Variety!

2020

I CONTACTLESS DONATION SITES: 1) Department of Community Resources and Services 9830 Patuxent Woods Dr., Columbia 21046 • 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

2) Elkridge 50+ Center 6540 Washington Blvd., Elkridge 21075 • 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

3) Ellicott City 50+ Center 9401 Frederick Rd., Ellicott City 21042 • 10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Donate new gift items for low-income seniors who reside in assisted living facilities and in the community, and/or new gifts (including books and toys) for families in need with children ages 0 to 5 years old. Financial donations can be made by calling 410-313-5956. FOR MORE INFORMATION

Tené Young — Ofﬁce on Aging and Independence 410-313-5956 (VOICE/RELAY) • tyoung@howardcountymd.gov Erica Taylor — Ofﬁce of Children and Families 410-313-1483 (VOICE/RELAY) • etaylor@howardcountymd.gov

Donations will be accepted through December 7, 2020.

A VIRTUAL WELLNESS WEBINAR

Wednesday, December 2 11:00 to 11:50 pm Join the SeniorsTogether program for an interactive discussion on the challenge of grief and loss during the holidays. Learn coping strategies and ways to celebrate the memory a loved one. Contact: KAREN HULL khull@howardcountymd.gov • 410-313-7466 (VOICE /RELAY)

n response to the coronavirus pandemic, the Office on Aging and Independence (OAI) introduced and expanded its virtual 50+ center model as a way for Howard County’s older adults to stay engaged, connected and active while centers remain closed. During the winter months, participating in virtual programs on a regular basis is a great way to avoid feeling socially isolated while staying indoors. Staying home doesn’t have to mean giving up your fitness routine. In addition to a variety of free classes, OAI’s monthly virtual fitness class pass ($50/month) includes access to more than 20 different exercise classes for all levels, including seated strength and balance, Pilates, Yoga, Zumba® Gold, Kickboxing and more! Those who participated in person at 50+ centers will find many virtual classes led by their favorite instructors. Fitness pass holders can participate in as many exercise classes as they like using a laptop, tablet or personal computer via Webex, all from the comfort of their own homes. To participate in the fitness pass program, you must join or already be a member of a Howard County 50+ center. To join a center or sign up for a fitness pass, call 410-313-1400 or 410-313-5440 (voice/relay) weekdays between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. In addition to the fitness pass, OAI will continue to offer a wide variety of free virtual programs every month, including exercise classes, Korean line dancing, Let’s Cook, Let’s Get Social, Let’s Learn, and SeniorsTogether programs. View the December Virtual Offerings Guide at www.howardcountymd.gov/aging for details.

The 50+ Connection is published monthly by the Howard County Ofﬁce on Aging and Independence. This publication is available in alternate formats upon request. To join our subscriber list, email kahenry@howardcountymd.gov 9830 Patuxent Woods Drive, Columbia, MD 21046 410-313-6410 (VOICE/RELAY) • www.howardcountymd.gov/aging Find us on

www.Facebook.com/HoCoCommunity

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

This online event will feature a variety of expert speakers on health and ﬁnancial topics; engaging classes; entertainment; and informative exhibits. The 50+EXPO runs through January 31, 2021. You can visit all programs at any time the during the three month event.

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

Money Law &

SOCIAL SECURITY TAX Many retirees expect their Social Security benefits to be tax-free, but that’s not always the case. Consider these ways to lower payments subject to federal tax RETHINK MEDICARE COVERAGE Look closely at your current Medicare coverage and evaluate other options that could lower your costs during this year’s Open Enrollment period, from now until Dec. 7

Can you pass a retirement literacy quiz? The American College of Financial Serv- worth $100,000 at retirement, based ices periodically conducts a retirement lit- on historical returns in the U.S., what is the most you can afford to eracy quiz for prospective rewithdraw each year (not intirees. The 2020 quiz consists flation adjusted) to have a of 38 questions covering all 95% chance your assets will important retirement issues. last 30 years? Unfortunately, 8 out of 10 ina. $2,000 dividuals taking the 2020 quiz b. $4,000 failed to get a passing grade. c. $6,000 More than half of respond. $8,000 dents underestimated the life 2. An immediate income expectancy of a 65-year-old annuity that pays income of man. Only 31% have a plan in $1,000 a month is generalplace to fund long-term care. THE SAVINGS ly going to be more expenAlthough only 8% considered GAME sive: it likely they would need long- By Elliot Raphaelson a. The younger the owner is term care, the reality is that when the annuity begins 70% will need some form of this care. b. For a man rather than for a woman Only 33% of respondents report having a c. If interest rates increase written retirement plan, and of those who d. For a single person do have a plan, only 47% feel prepared for a 3. A deferred variable annuity with market downturn. Of those without a written plan, only 35% feel prepared to deal guaranteed lifetime withdrawal benefits: a. Ensures that the investment will not with a market downturn. You can take the test at theamericancol- lose value b. Only offers investment alternatives lege.edu/retirement-income-literacy-survey. Here are some of the questions contained in with fixed returns c. Pays guaranteed income that varies the survey, along with answers below: 1. If you had a well-diversified portfo- based on market performance d. Can pay income even if the investlio of 50% stocks and 50% bonds

ment account goes to zero. 4. True or False: A retiree who is working part-time can generally continue to contribute to an IRA or a Roth IRA 5. Sarah is single, aged 65, and takes a reverse mortgage with a lump-sum payment. When does the loan have to be repaid? a. At age 75 b. Whenever she takes another loan c. When she permanently leaves the home d. Whenever the mortgage company wants it back 6. Nationally, who pays the majority of long-term-care expenses provided in nursing homes? a. Medicare b. Private payment c. Medicaid d. Insurance purchased by individuals 7. Converting a portion of a traditional IRA into a Roth IRA is a good idea, if: a. You have more taxable income than usual, and your marginal tax rate is higher than normal. b. You have a big tax deduction this year, and your marginal tax rate is lower than normal.

c. The value of the assets in your IRA has remained the same for 10 years. 8. Which of the following types of long-term bonds typically has the highest yield? a. U.S. Treasury bonds b. AAA rated corporate bonds c. BBB rated corporate bonds 9. To maximize the safe withdrawal rate from a portfolio over a 30-year retirement period, it is best to hold what percentage of assets in equities throughout retirement? a. 0-10% b. 25-35% c. 50-60% d. 90-100% Answers: 1 b; 2 a; 3 d; 4 True; 5 c, 6 c; 7 b; 8 c; 9 c The quiz encompasses a comprehensive set of questions and answers including investing, withdrawal options, annuities, Social Security and long-term care. I recommend that you take the quiz to determine which important retirement topics you should consider learning more about. Elliot Raphaelson welcomes your questions and comments at raphelliot@gmail.com. © 2020 Elliot Raphaelson. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

A guide to giving for the greatest impact By Kiplinger Consumer News Service The recession and global pandemic are hitting charities where it hurts the most: in the wallet. Most fundraising professionals expect donations to decline in 2020 compared with previous years, a situation likely to continue through 2021, according to the Association of Fundraising Professionals. Meanwhile, the need for charity is climbing, particularly to combat rising poverty, hunger and homelessness from the pandemic’s economic fallout. “There are so many needs that it can be overwhelming for donors,” said Una Osili, professor of economics and philanthropic studies at Indiana University and associate dean for research at the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy. The U.S. has 1.6 million nonprofits, a figure that has quadrupled in the last 40 years, according to Kevin Scally, chief relationship officer for Charity Navigator, which evaluates nonprofits and rates

their effectiveness. Is it better to give to a large nonprofit or a small one? Should you go global or stay local? There’s no single answer, only ways to assess how your dollars might have the greatest impact for the causes you believe in.

Charity starts at home Adela Crandell Durkee, 69, donates recurring amounts to PBS, NPR and Catholic Family Charities, but beyond that has struggled to find national organizations to support. In the past, she and her daughter raised money for breast cancer through the Susan G. Komen walk, only to encounter recriminations from family and friends who opposed the Komen Foundation’s support of Planned Parenthood. Durkee and her daughter donated hair to Locks of Love to make into wigs but then grew concerned that the organization wasn’t rated as favorably as others. “It got to be too much work for me to

sort through all the threads and truly give consciously. So, I changed my tactic,” she said. “I try to pick things that are local and where I can see the direct impact.” Now, Durkee volunteers at a local food pantry, Habitat for Humanity and her church, where, she said, “the overhead is low and the feedback is plentiful.” Some donors give in concentric circles: one local charity, one regional, one national and one international. “On the local level, you as a donor have more of a connection to the work being done,” Scally said. “On a national level, the benefit of supporting a larger organization is they have more resources to do more. In addition, many national organizations, especially the good ones, will have local partnerships.”

Philanthropy 101 Once you know the causes you want to support, visit websites such as Give.org and

CharityNavigator.org that evaluate nonprofits, provide comparisons, and even suggest charities if you search by topic or Zip code. These websites provide details about a nonprofit’s activities, and some also rate and rank charities according to financial efficiency, transparency and impact. Akira Barclay, a philanthropic consultant, noted that on these sites larger organizations tend to get higher ratings because they have the resources to collect data and present themselves in a favorable light. “A smaller nonprofit, just because they don’t have that concrete data, doesn’t mean they aren’t making an impact,” said Tracey Webb of Laurel, Maryland, a collective-giving expert and founder of Black Benefactors, which is based in Washington, D.C., and makes grants between $500 and $10,000. Of course, check the nonprofit’s website for annual reports or newsletters. Evaluate See GIVING, page 28

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How to reduce tax bite on Social Security By Kiplinger News Service After a lifetime of paying taxes on wages and other income, many people enter retirement expecting their Social Security benefits to be tax-free. But thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s often not the case. For some retirees, Uncle Sam takes a hefty bite of those benefits. Fortunately, there are ways to lower the percentage of Social Security payments that are subject to federal tax. Start with calculating the taxable amount by adding together 50% of your Social Security benefits, all tax-exempt interest and other items that make up your adjusted gross income (minus certain deductions like those for higher education). The result is your provisional income. Social Security benefits are not taxed for

single filers with provisional income of less than $25,000. The same is true for married couples filing jointly if their provisional income is less than $32,000. When provisional income is between $25,000 and $34,000 for a single filer, or $32,000 and $44,000 for a joint filer, up to 50% of Social Security benefits can be taxed. As much as 85% of those benefits are subject to tax when provisional income exceeds $34,000 on a single return or $44,000 on a joint return. Reducing adjusted gross income is the key to lowering taxes on Social Security. If your AGI drops, so does your provisional income. When your provisional income shrinks, the percentage of benefits included in taxable income declines, lowering the tax on benefits.

Steps you can take

Giving

990 form, which most nonprofits must file annually with the IRS, on irs.gov or through a service like Candid GuideStar or Foundation Center. This form contains financial results, revenue, expenses and the compensation of the nonprofitâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s five most highly paid employees or contractors. Assess whether the organization is a responsible steward of resources by looking at its results, the percentage of revenue that goes to overhead, and the amount of cash it has on hand to meet operating costs. â&#x20AC;&#x153;If the organization isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t sustainable, you

may want to be a bit cautious,â&#x20AC;? Osili said.

From page 27 the staff and board leadership, including their experience and background. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I like to look at their social media pages,â&#x20AC;? Webb said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sometimes theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re updated more frequently than the website.â&#x20AC;? For you to claim a tax deduction for your donation, the organization must be a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, fiscally sponsored or structured as a donor-advised fund. You should be able to find the charityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Your strategy for reducing the tax should be put in place long before your first Social Security check arrives. Matt Nadeau, wealth adviser at the Piershale Financial Group in Barrington, Illinois, often recommends pre-retirement Roth conversions. Shifting money from a traditional IRA to a Roth IRA generally makes sense, he said, because the Rothâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tax-free withdrawals wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t raise AGI. Simply delaying Social Security can help. The longer you wait, the more youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll get per month. â&#x20AC;&#x153;If your Social Security is higher and it allows you to take less from a retirement account like an IRA, that lowers provisional incomeâ&#x20AC;? because you have less taxable money from a traditional IRA

The gift of time Besides giving money, â&#x20AC;&#x153;thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also the volunteering of time, talent and testimony,â&#x20AC;? Osili added. â&#x20AC;&#x153;How do you support the organization? Do you post on social media? They could benefit from that testimony.â&#x20AC;? Consider volunteering, which can eventually lead to service on the board of directors. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Donors that get involved in the organization tend to get more satisfaction,â&#x20AC;? Osili said.

boosting your AGI, Nadeau said. Once you start taking Social Security and are at least 70Â˝ years old, qualified charitable distributions (QCDs) are a great way to cut taxes on those benefits if you are taking money from a traditional IRA and plan to give to charity anyway. With a QCD, you can transfer up to $100,000 directly from a traditional IRA to charity without raising your AGI, whereas if you took $1,000 from your IRA and donated it separately â&#x20AC;&#x153;that $1,000 might be making another $850 of your Social Security taxable,â&#x20AC;? warned Ryan McKeown, senior vice president at Wealth Enhancement Group in Mankato, Minnesota. See UNCLE SAM, page 29

Give as part of a group Consider joining or starting a collectivegiving group, which combines gifts for a greater impact. Some alumni do this by pooling contributions from a graduating class, for example. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Anyone whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s making a choice to give during this time, their generosity is appreciated,â&#x20AC;? Barclay said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s so important right now, more than ever.â&#x20AC;? ÂŠ 2020 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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Reevaluate your Medicare coverage now By Lifestyles After 50 Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s that time of year again: Medicareâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s annual Open Enrollment period. Each year from October 15 to December 7, current Medicare users are able to compare and switch their Medicare and Part D prescription drug plans, if wanted. New users are able to enroll during this period, so long as it is not their first time enrolling in Parts A or B. (Your initial enrollment period generally depends on the date you turn 65. If you miss that opportunity, your next one is during the â&#x20AC;&#x153;generalâ&#x20AC;? enrollment period, Jan. 1-March 31.)

According to MyMedicareMatters.org, a ser vice of the National Council on Aging, here are the various changes you can make during this open enrollment period: â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Anyone with Medicare Parts A & B can switch to a Part C (Medicare Advantage) plan. â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Anyone with Medicare Part C can switch back to Parts A & B, or switch to a new Part C plan. â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Anyone who has or is signing up for Medicare Parts A or B can join, drop or switch a Part D prescription drug plan.

Uncle Sam

people can control, because they make a choice to sell an investment.â&#x20AC;? Even if you qualify for the 0% tax rate on capital gains, McKeown warns, you could still be upping the tax on Social Security benefits by selling capital assets. One way around this is to sell some stocks at a loss, if you can, to offset capital gains. â&#x20AC;&#x153;All the decisions need to be put in context of an overall plan,â&#x20AC;? McKeown said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Make sure that things make sense for your goals and have investment meritâ&#x20AC;? because thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s more to sound financial planning than just lowering taxes. ÂŠ 2020 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

From page 28

Additional tips Tax-efficient investing can also help you keep more of your Social Security benefits. For example, because dividends are included in AGI, Nadeau suggests investing for growth rather than dividend income in after-tax retirement accounts. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re working part-time in retirement, which by itself will increase income, continuing to fund a traditional IRA helps dial back your AGI. Monitoring the capital gains on your investments is also important, McKeown said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Long-term capital gain is something

Any changes you make to your Medicare coverage plan during the 2020 open enrollment period will be effective as of January 1, 2021.

Why bother? Each year, insurance companies are able to make various changes to their Medicare and Part D plans â&#x20AC;&#x201D; including the doctors and prescriptions they cover and their various co-pays and deductibles. Naturally, these affect the out-of-pocket

costs different consumers will face. You could also lose access to a trusted doctor. So, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s highly recommended that you use the open enrollment period to re-evaluate your current plan and consider changing to another one that could save you money or improve your coverage. The benefits of annually evaluating your Medicare coverage plan, according to MyMedicareMatters.org, are these: See MEDICARE, page 30

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A TRADITION IN THE JEWISH COMMUNITY FOR OVER 125 YEARS Contact us for our Advance Planning options and resources. Columbia Arrangement Center 5560 Sterrett Place, Suite 204 Columbia, MD 21044 sollevinson.com â&#x20AC;˘ 410-730-7230

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How to avoid the latest Medicare scams Every year during health insurance open enrollment season, scammers try to dupe unsuspecting consumers into sharing their personal information. You may receive a call (or recorded message) from someone who claims to be helping you navigate your Medicare options. They may call themselves a “healthcare benefits advocate” or a similar title. The caller says they can enroll you in a “cheaper and better” Medicare program than what you currently have, and all you need to do is provide some personal information such as your Medicare ID number.

Of course, the call is a scam, and sharing personal information merely opens you to identity theft. In another version reported to BBB.org/ScamTracker, the caller is trying to frighten you by claiming your Medicare will be discontinued if you don’t re-enroll. Fortunately, you are told, this “Medicare advisor” can fix the situation, but you need to provide some personal information to get the process going. BBB.org/ScamTracker is also getting reports about callers pushing “free” back or knee braces. This is also Medicare fraud. You can learn more about these scams at http://bit.ly/bracescam.

How to avoid being scammed —Be war y of unsolicited contact. People representing Medicare plans don’t contact you by phone, email or in person unless you are already enrolled. Be especially cautious of calls that require quick action or immediate payment. —Decline promotional gifts in exchange for personal information. Keep a healthy level of skepticism any time a broker offers you free gifts or other special deals. Never sign up with a broker who offers you an expensive “sign-up gift” in exchange for providing your Medicare ID number or other personal information. —Beware of “free health screen-

ings.” Some brokers offer this to weed out people who are less healthy. This is against Medicare rules. —Guard your government-issued numbers. Never offer your Medicare ID number, Social Security number, health plan info, or banking information to anyone you don’t know. —Go to official websites. You can enroll or re-enroll in Medicare at Medicare.gov. If you’ve been the victim of a scam, please report it to BBB.org/ ScamTracker. By sharing your experience, you can help others avoid falling victim to similar scams. Courtesy of the Better Business Bureau of Central Virginia.

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LOW VISION SUPPORT GROUP Jewish Community Services offers a low vision support group the 2nd and 4th Thursdays each month from 1:30 to 3 p.m. The group

is free and open to the public and meets via Zoom. For more information, visit jcsbalt.org/events.

Medicare From page 29 —Switching to better prescription drug coverage can reduce out-of-pocket costs and ensure drug plans still cover needed prescriptions. Research shows that the average consumer can save $300 or more annually if they review their Part D coverage. —Save money and keep your doctor innetwork by switching Medicare Advantage or Part D plans. —Find a higher quality plan. Plans with

a 5-star rating are considered high quality. If you are enrolled in a plan that is less than 3 stars, consider using Open Enrollment to switch. So, take advantage of this open enrollment period to ensure that you have the best plan that has the coverage you need without overpaying. Visit MyMedicareMatters.org and complete their questionnaire to best assess your current healthcare needs versus your current plan. Reprinted with permission of Lifestyles After 50, lifestylesafter50.com.

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N â&#x20AC;&#x201D; D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0

CONGRATULATIONS 2020 WINNERS AARP SERVICE AWARDS AARP Maryland recognizes outstanding people who are champions for change in our communities. This year, we've awarded three individuals for their consistent acts of service. We're proud to shine a light on those who set an example of volunteerism. TED MEYERSON J. Joseph Curran Jr. Lifetime Achievement Award Mr. Meyerson is one of AARP Marylandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most active volunteers, as a public speaker, AARP Fraud Watch Network leader, advocate for advance care planning, technology trainer, and legislative advocate.

DR. SHAWN ASHWORTH Andrus Award for Community Service -Ç¸ .#2*-/# ./ '$.# /# )*)+-*Í&#x2013; / ** Ç&#x201D; #*0"#/ *((0)$/4 0/- # -1$ .Çš ) Ç¸ Č&#x2013; Ç&#x201D; Č&#x2014;Çš 2$/# ($..$*) *! +-*1$ $)" 1 / - ).Çš /# #*( ' ..Çš ) ./-0""'$)" families with nutritional meals, housing referrals, counseling, and job skill development.

LEONOR BLUM AARP Maryland State President's Award .Ç¸ '0( !*0) Çž ' )/ /$) Ç˝Çš )*)+-*Í&#x2013; / $ / /* # '+$)" '*2Č?$) *( /$) "$-'. /* *1 - *( /# .* $*Č? 0'/0- 'Çš *)*($ Çš ) ($ --$ -. /# 4 ! $) +0-.0$)" *'' " - -Ç¸ * 4Çš Ç&#x2122;Ç?Ę? *! Çž ' )/ /$) Ç˝ "- 0 / . "* *) /* )-*'' $) *'' " Ç¸

Learn more about their accomplishments at aarp.org/md

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Travel Leisure &

In rebuilding Notre Dame after the April 2019 fire, workers are using medieval techniques. See story on p. 34.

Try Finger Lakes for hikes, food and laughs Foodies be forewarned! You may have to loosen your belt during the sojourn in this diet-busting destination. Farm stands and pick-your-own fruit orchards vie with cheese shops and bakeries to tempt passersby with hard-to-resist tasty treats. Wineries, craft breweries and cideries provide beverages to accompany those delicacies. Oenophiles may think they’ve gone to grape heaven. More than 70 wineries line the shore of Seneca Lake alone, almost half of them connected by a Wine Trail.

PHOTO BY STU GALLAGHER PHOTOGRAPHY

Museums to explore The area’s museums range from tiny establishments to world-class collections. The often-overlooked Fenton History Center, located in the mid-19th century home of a former U.S. congressman, senator and governor, tells much more than his story. One room is devoted to the War of 1812 between the United States and Britain, much of which was waged along the New York-Canadian border. Other exhibits bring to life the role of New Yorkers who helped enslaved people escape through the Underground Railroad. A smaller but no less interesting site is the Mark Twain Study. Built in 1874 on a farm outside Elmira, the hometown of his wife, the tiny octagonal structure is where Twain (Samuel Clemens) wrote some of his

A race is underway at Watkins Glen International, a track whose roots go back to 1948 and has long hosted NASCAR and Grand Prix events. But almost every day, time is set aside for members of the public to zoom around the 3.45-mile circuit in their own cars for a taste of the thrill.

PHOTO BY KEVIN C. COX/FINGER LAKES WINE COUNTRY

By Victor Block One afternoon during a recent trip to the Finger Lakes region of Western New York State, I was clocking 80 miles per hour (zooming around an automobile racetrack). On another day, I slowed down on the road to pass a horse-pulled Amish buggy. In between were hikes through otherworldly scenery, visits to intriguing museums, and opportunities to become acquainted with the opulent lifestyle of the wealthy. The Finger Lakes region is within an easy six- or seven-hour drive from Washington, D.C. You’ll pass through countryside with splendid views of rolling farmlands and dense forests. When the drive ends, visitors face a long, diverse list of sightseeing and activities. On something called the Empire State Road Trip, I followed an itinerary that linked enticing things to see and do with inviting accommodations along the way. The road trip was laid out by the Harbor Hotel Collection — three properties about a three-hour drive from each other in Chautauqua, Watkins Glen and Clayton, the latter located in New York’s Thousand Islands District (there actually are 1,864 islands). Each location offers its own unique reasons to visit, while also sharing appealing traits and treats. Let’s begin with the latter.

Hikers marvel at the 200-foot cliffs and 19 waterfalls of Watkins Glen State Park in New York. The state’s Finger Lakes Region offers adventure, relaxation, sophisticated food and local wine.

most famous works. It now sits in a place of honor on the Elmira College campus. At the National Comedy Center in Jamestown, a personal profile is created for each guest, and more than 50 immersive displays deliver content tailored to each person’s taste. All the famous names from comedy are represented, and a “Blue Room” delves into adult humor. Close by is the Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum, which explores the life of that popular couple. Ball was born in Jamestown and retained lifelong ties to the area. Her California home contained furniture made in Jamestown, which was nicknamed “Furniture Capital of the World” when that industry thrived there from about 1860 into the early 20th century. Both museums are open, with COVID safety adjustments in place. At the Antique Boat Museum in Clayton, the heart of the Thousand Islands area, visitors can see a priceless collection of over 350 vessels ranging from canoes and kayaks to sleek power boats. Even a landlubber like me can appreciate the beauty and craftsmanship of the exhibits. Visitors may row a traditional St. Lawrence skiff, ride in a triple-cockpit speedboat, and tour La Duchesse, an elegant houseboat built for George Boldt. He was a German-born hotelier and one of America’s wealthy tycoons who, during the Gilded Age, built opulent mansions on

some of the islands in the archipelago region of the St. Lawrence River. Boldt planned a castle as a gift of love for his wife, Louise. He changed the island’s name from Hart to Heart, had stone and wood hearts carved throughout the structure, and directed that flowerbeds be planted in the shape of hearts. When Louise died before the palatial structure was completed, Boldt abandoned the project. Today the six-story, 127-room castle has been restored and opened for visitors, who reach the island following a 10-minute boat trip.

Grand Prix speedway Another ride provided a more adrenaline-boosting experience. I knew that Watkins Glen is a racecar fan’s dream destination but wasn’t sure why until I heard the town’s origin story. The first chapter was written in 1948, when a race was held over a 6.6-mile route along streets in and around the town. After a mishap several years later, which resulted in the death of one onlooker and injuries to others, the Watkins Glen Grand Prix Race Course was constructed. Today the racetrack is open to the public between races. I opted to try the “Drive the Glen” proSee FINGER LAKES, page 33

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Finger Lakes gram and lined up my somewhat clunky Honda sedan on the track with eight other vehicles, including a snazzy Corvette, a stylish Nissan and the pace car that led the pack. The motorway combines stretches of straightaway with banked pavement leading into sharp hairpin curves. Despite the admonition not to exceed 60 miles per hour, I must admit that after slowing to open the distance between my car and the vehicle I was following, I saw my speedometer hit 80. Contrast that velocity and the roar of engines with the gentle clip-clop of a horse pulling an Amish wagon through quiet countryside. Here and there residents of local Amish communities cling to their traditional lifestyle. Those pockets of the past are comprised of tidy farms and massive barns, some with the image of a quilt painted on the side.

world of towering rocks, deep crevices and small caves. Signs identify features with names like Paradise Alley and Indian Fireplace, which Native Americans used as a stone oven. You’ll encounter a very different environment at Watkins Glen State Park, where a deep gorge cuts through a landscape of water-sculpted rock and dense northern forest. Adding to the scene are 19 waterfalls squeezed into the first mile of the path. Some plummet over sheer cliffs while others trickle across flat rocks in the river bottom. The route requires climbing up (and down) a total of 832 stone steps. If thoughts of this mountain-goat experience don’t excite you, other opportunities on the Empire State Road Trip certainly will. From picking apples in an orchard to chuckling at zany humor at the National Comedy Center, the challenge in the Finger Lakes region is selecting from among the long list of something-for-everyone choices.

Hiking trails

If you go

Many trails crisscross the area, suitable for all skill and stamina levels. My personal favorites offer more than just a walk in the woods. Panama Rocks Scenic Park in Chautauqua County is an ancient forest that has been attracting visitors since the 1880s. A mile-long loop leads through a jungle-like

The three Harbor Hotel properties share pleasant waterfront settings, AAA four-diamond caliber facilities, and touches of their locations and history. The use of stone, unpainted wood and water designs hint of their surroundings. Rates begin at $101 a night. Among vintage photographs that line

From page 32

lobby walls in the Chautauqua Harbor Hotel are Frank Sinatra, who performed there, Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz, and even some depicting the amusement park that occupied the site from 1893 to 1962. Memorabilia related to car racing is scattered about the Watkins Glen property, while antique boats are a focus of photos and displays in the 1000 Islands Harbor Hotel. The hotels’ dining rooms offer the same menu, plus nightly specials. A cheese plate of four choices plus sides ($19) is more than enough for two people to share. Two Maine lobster rolls ($19) and fettuccini with

roast chicken ($27) are popular favorites. The Drive the Glen experience, in which you drive your own car on a 3.45mile Grand Prix circuit, costs $30. It is open July through October. Like Drive the Glen, many attractions are open seasonally, so it’s best to check before you visit. NOTE: At the hotels, COVID restrictions are in place, restricting visitors from certain states, and requiring masks and social distancing at all properties. For more information, call (607) 535-3759 or visit harborhotelcollection.com/experiences/e mpire-state-road-trip.

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Rebuilding Notre Dame medieval-style By Elaine Ganley With precision and boundless energy, a team of carpenters used medieval techPHOTO BY WANDRILLE DE PRÉVILLE

niques to raise up — by hand — a three-ton oak truss last month in front of Notre Dame Cathedral, a replica of the wooden structures that were consumed in the landmark’s devastating April 2019 fire that also toppled its spire. The demonstration to mark European Heritage Days gave hundreds of people a first-hand look at the rustic methods used 800 years ago to build the triangular frames in the nave of Notre Dame de Paris. It also proved that the decision to replicate the cathedral in its original form was the right one, said Gen. Jean-Louis Georgelin, who heads the cathedral’s reconstruction. Parisians were shocked by the fire on April 15, 2019 that destroyed the wooden roof and collapsed the spire of Notre Dame Cathedral. Today, workers are rebuilding the structure using ageold techniques.

“It shows firstly that we made the right choice in choosing to rebuild the carpentry identically, in oak from France,” Georgelin said in an interview. “Secondly, it shows us the...method by which we will rebuild the framework, truss after truss.”

Respecting tradition A debate over whether the new spire should have a futuristic design or whether the trusses should be made of fireproof cement like in the Cathedral of Nantes, which was destroyed in a 1972 fire, ended with the decision in July to respect Notre Dame’s original design and materials. A total of 25 trusses are to be installed at an unknown date in the cathedral nave. Philippe Gourmain, a forestry expert working on the cathedral project, said the carpentry phase will not come before 2022. “The problem of Notre Dame is not a

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carpentry problem. We have the wood. We know how to do it,” Gourmain said. “The big issue is regarding the stone.” Some stones — which support the carpentry — were damaged by the fire, and “it’s not so easy now” to find similar stone, he said. French President Emmanuel Macron wants the cathedral reopened in 2024 in time for the Paris Olympic Games, a deadline that many experts have called unrealistic.

Still clearing away debris For the moment, the delicate task of dismantling melted scaffolding, which was originally erected to refurbish the now-toppled spire, continues. That job, started in early June, will be completed in October. The soaring cathedral vaults are also being cleared of debris by 35 specialists on ropes. The organ with its 8,000 pipes was removed for repair in early August. It is not yet known what technique will be used to create and install the wooden trusses. The truss mounted for the weekend display is a replica of truss No. 7, more advanced than the first six trusses, which were “more primitive,” said Florian Carpentier, site manager for the team from Carpenters Without Borders that felled the trees and used axes to cut the logs for the wooden frame. With rope cables and a rustic pulley system, the carpenters slowly pulled the truss they built in July from the ground where it was laid out. “It’s a moment to see, ancestral techniques that last. There is the present and the past and it links us to our roots,” said Romain Greif, an architect who came with his family to watch the display. “It’s an event.” In a final touch, once the No. 7 truss replica was raised on high, a carpenter was cheered as he shinnied up the wooden beams to tie an oak branch to the top of the triangular structure — a symbol of prosperity and a salute to the workers, a tradition still honored in numerous European countries. —AP

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Is there a travel adviser in your future? By Ed Perkins For any upcoming trips, many of you will turn to a travel adviser to help with the arrangements — some for the first time. When internet travel agencies and search systems first blossomed, some observers predicted the “end” for conventional travel agents. And many such agencies did, in fact, disappear. But others survived, in part by morphing into travel advisers. Specifically, internet-age travel advisers found three useful niches: — Using specialized knowledge to help consumers plan and arrange trips in today’s complex travel marketplace, — Taking over the work of compiling complex travel arrangements, and — Helping big corporations manage and control their business travel budgets. Ordinary consumers aren’t concerned with the third niche, which is filled mainly by large business travel agencies and consortiums. But many ordinary consumers are taking advantage of the way travel advisers can make their lives easier. There’s a big difference between a travel adviser and a travel agent. Big online outfits such as Expedia and Booking are travel agents. They can help you compare costs of various options and actually perform the base agency function of making the transaction. But they can’t sit down with you, discuss your objectives and preferences, or help you map out a complete trip. That’s what makes travel advisers different: Yes, they can also make the transaction, but their real value is helping you zero in on exactly which transactions you want to make.

Save time, get better deals Thus, probably the main way advisers

can benefit you is by helping you plan and arrange a trip. They keep up with the latest developments in destinations and transportation services. And they may even have access to deals that aren’t offered to the general public. Even if you keep up with what’s going on yourself, you may not want to spend tedious hours glued to your monitor, researching and comparing options. Instead, you can just tell an adviser, “I want to take my grandkids to Disney World in June” and let the adviser work out the details. Advisers earn their income from two sources: fees you pay and commissions some suppliers offer. And you can expect to pay some kind of fee, starting around $40 to $50 and running up into the hundreds, depending on the assignment. Airlines these days don’t pay agents much in the way of commissions, but cruise lines, hotels and tour operators do, so what you pay depends, in part, on what sort of trip you plan.

Find the right adviser And, lastly, maybe the most important question: How do you locate the right adviser? As with all services, your most reliable source is word of mouth from friends, relatives and co-workers. Ask around. The American Association of Travel Advisors (ASTA) posts an adviser locator that you can filter by specialty, such as “senior travel,” “beach vacations” or “luxury travel,” as well as by destination. The main problem is that too many advisers claim special competence in just about everything. ASTA membership is certainly a plus, but the “ASTA Verified”

certification is more a measure of how an adviser runs its business than confirmation of its travel knowledge. Several large adviser chains operate multiple locations or affiliates around the U.S., including Internova, American Express and AAA (check websites for your state). Some advisers focus on cruises exclusively, which is a good thing — they keep up with what’s going on. If you want a cruise, consider a cruiser specialist, although AAA is also good with cruises.

Many local travel advisers are affiliated with one of a dozen or more worldwide outfits that back up individual advisers with current technology. Google your area for candidates. And when you spot a likely candidate, don’t be reluctant to ask for — and check — references. Email Ed Perkins at eperkins@mind.net. Also, check out Ed’s rail travel website at rail-guru.com. © 2020 Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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Style Arts &

Tune in to WYPR.org or NPR.org for a new 20-minute radio drama each month. See story below.

Poe’s stories come alive over the radio theater of the mind, which uses actors, music and sound effects to conjure up vivid stories in the listener’s imagination.”

State and national accolades The Library of Congress recently announced that it will archive the “Poe Theatre on the Air” episodes as part of its new Podcast Preservation Program. The library said it considered the programs to be “an important part of the cultural and historical record.” Mark Dreisonstok, critic for Maryland Theater Guide, wrote: “We recommend these dramatizations of Poe’s tales, which will appeal to admirers of Poe as one of the masters of American literature…but also will find interested listeners in fans of horror series like ‘Tales from the Crypt.’ We hope these audio productions continue far into the future.”

‘A visual landscape for your ears’ During the pandemic, more theater companies are turning to audio productions, including Ford’s Theater in D.C., which will release A Christmas Carol: The Radio Play in December. “We’re creating a visual landscape for your ears,” Zavistovich said of his performers. “As you listen, the brain fills in the absence of the visual component.” Zavistovich was producer for the Molotov Theater Group in D.C., which presented live stage performances. One of them, Molotov’s 2014 production of Nightfall with

Edgar Allan Poe, was extremely popular, giving Zavistovich the idea to create a radio series of the writer’s works. He also credits such local veteran theater technicians as audio-engineer-producer Ty Ford for the success of the broadcasts. Besides the psychoterror stories set for next year, “Poe on the Air” will present dramatizations of the author’s three short stories featuring amateur sleuth Auguste Dupin — “The Murders in the Rue Morgue,” “The Mystery of Marie Roget” and “The Pur- Alex Zavistovich co-founded the National Edgar Allan Poe Theatre 18 months ago. Stories like “The Tell-Tale Heart” loined Letter.” are brought to life through its Poe Theatre on the Air seZavistovich noted ries, now archived at the Library of Congress. that critics consider these tales to be the first great crime fiction more tavern, what, besides the thrills and stories. Arthur Conan Doyle pointed to the chills of his writing, does Poe offer us stories as a strong influence for creating his today? “Poe’s stories deal with timeless themes own fictional detective, Sherlock Holmes. Critics have also noted Poe’s influence of love and loss, and metaphysical queson the psychological probing of characters tions about the meaning of life. That will in Dostoyevsky’s novels, and pointed to never go out of fashion,” Zavistovich said. “Also, look no further than the story Poe’s one novel — The Narrative of Arthur Gordon Pym, a story of the sea — as a ‘The Masque of the Red Death’ for an exmajor influence for Herman Melville’s ample of how Poe is relevant in today’s pandemic crisis,” said the producer-direcMoby Dick. tor-actor-writer. PHOTO BY THE NATIONAL EDGAR ALLAN POE THEATRE

By Robert Friedman Dr. Mallard leads his guests at the mental hospital to a cell, where a patient relates his sad story: “Once upon a midnight dreary, while I pondered weak and weary, over many a quaint and curious volume of forgotten lore; while I nodded, nearly napping, suddenly there came a tapping, as of someone gently rapping, rapping at my chamber door.” In the next 21 minutes, listeners hear the fellow say that he had been visited by a raven, who kept saying just one word: “Nevermore.” This, along with memories of his lost love, Lenore, sent him around the bend and to his insane asylum cell. Those words were the beginning of the script for the recent radio recreation of “The Raven,” the classic poem by Edgar Allan Poe, who spent several of his writing years in Baltimore, where he died in 1849 and is buried. A dramatization of the writer’s short stories is broadcast on the radio each month, part of a series known as “National Edgar Allan Poe Theatre on the Air.” The program debuted on Baltimore WYPR-FM in August 2019, and is now streaming on NPR’s website, accessible at any time of day or night. The scripts were created by Alex Zavistovich (who also acts in them) and Richard Hand, a professor at the University of East Anglia in Norwich, England. Zavistovich, 59, founder and artistic director of the National Edgar Allan Poe Theatre, said the programs belong to “the

Poe’s relevance today

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See POE, page 37

So, 171 years after his death in a Balti-

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Art studio From page 1 Long Reach Village Center earlier this year. In addition, the African Art Museum of Maryland, established in 1980, expanded this year, moving from its previous 900square-foot space to a 1,400-square-foot area in the center. The museum celebrated a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new exhibit space in May. “We are going to be the talk of the town,” museum director and co-founder Doris Ligon told the Baltimore Sun. West explained that the facility features three suites that, when full, will accommodate 16 artists. Four of the current artists in residence are 50 or older. Both professional and emerging artists are welcome to apply to lease a studio. Mediums the artists will work in include watercolor and acrylic painting, drawing, fiber, film and digital media. Studios range in size from 120 square feet to 187 square feet; monthly rents average $80 to $125. Services at Long Reach feature 24-hour access to studios, heat, air-conditioning and access to water and “abundant natural light,” West said, along with a “convivial, supportive working atmosphere with

Poe From page 36 Poe’s pandemic story features an arro-

other professional artists.” Now, even in a pandemic, when careful consideration has been given to adhering to state and local protocols, the Long Reach Village Center studios are thriving. “Artists do tend to rely on each other,” Berger said. “If I need to ask a question, I can interact with others and get input. Adding an extra color somewhere can make a big difference.”

law practice. But her interest was reignited 15 years ago. While her son was taking after-school drum lessons in Silver Spring, she put the three hours to good use by attending an oil pastels class. From there, she branched out to acrylic paints and never stopped.

More places needed

For Berger, who is in her 60s, the studio offers a sanctuary, a self-contained landscape to decompress after clocking long hours in a profession that guarantees its share of stressful scenarios. Art can be a lot harder, however. “There’s so much more to learn than practicing law. In law, there are more boundaries,” she said. Berger first dabbled in art as a child, growing up in the suburbs of Philadelphia. “I remember my mother lining up water glasses and [empty] jars of food with different paint in them,” she said. “My mother would save them, and I would stick my brushes in them.” And there was always a glass reserved for turpentine, she added. As an adult, Berger set aside art activity in order to tend to her family and to her

Another artist who is excited about all the possibilities at the studio is Pamela Woolford, who moved in on Oct. 2. The Columbia resident, 53, is an award-winning writer, filmmaker and performer. “I will be writing, presenting and editing film about choreography, and dancing from that space,” Woolford said, the excitement building in her voice. “I feel very honored to have that space. It ties in much more with my roots here in Columbia.” Woolford, whose short fiction was twice nominated for a Pushcart Prize, has produced films such as “Generation” and “Art as a Response to Anti-Blackness.” Having her own space at Long Reach, she said, “is a lovely idea. For me, as someone steeped in the arts, I feel they bring great advantage to the community. They unite people. We are carriers of the culture.”

West, who has overseen the county Arts Council since 1997, graduated from the Minneapolis College of Art and Design and went on to earn a master’s degree with a concentration in museum design from New York University. “While living in Brooklyn,” she commented, “I worked at a number of cultural institutions, most notably the Museum of Modern Art, New York University Welcome Center and the Alternate Museum.” West emphasized there is a critical need to identify additional studio, gallery and theater space in the county. Joint efforts between the county and the arts council to offer programs similar to what’s taking flight at Long Reach “are important to our ability to achieve these goals.” Asked to share advice for aspiring artists to get them creating, Berger mixed the colors of passion and pragmatism. “Just do it,” she said. “What have you got to lose? Nobody’s judging you. You don’t have to make a masterpiece.” Long Reach Village Center is located at 8775 Cloudleap Court, Columbia, Maryland. For a studio tour, email lrstudios@hocoarts.org. To contact the Howard County Arts Council, call (410) 313-ARTS (2787) or visit hocoarts.org.

gant prince who believes he has escaped a plague known as the Red Death by retreating to his abbey, where he decides to host a masked ball for his fellow nobles. A

good time was being had by all, until a stranger disguised as a Red Death victim shows up, causing the prince and all his guests to die.

“Poe’s stories are every bit as strong — possibly even stronger — today,” Zavistovich said. “It’s almost as if we are experiencing those stories in real time.”

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Crossword Puzzle

Daily crosswords can be found on our website: www.TheBeaconNewspapers.com Click on Puzzles Plus Salad Days and Movie Nights 1

52 55

HC1220

Scrabble answers on p. 36.

By Stephen Sherr

50 53

68 70

Across 1. “___ and neuter your pets” 5. iPhone download 8. Weak pair, in poker 12. Home of the Terlingua Chili Cook-Off 14. Artist Chagall 16. “Get in the ___” (putters’ mutters) 17. Install a new statue 18. Gin flavoring 19. Arrived like Yankee Doodle 20. Image at the end of Dr. Strangelove 23. Keep the beat, digitally 24. Greek letter that looks like an H 25. Elvis Costello and Eric Clapton, initially 28. Situationally appropriate 31. Pull a rope, competitively 33. “Deer in Headlights”, briefly 34. Siesta 35. Like Steve McQueen in Bullitt’s car chase scene 39. Its first highlight show was broadcast in 1979 40. They float in the middle of HOVERCRAFTS 41. Major Nelson’s employer on I Dream of Jeannie 42. Try to motivate Seabiscuit 47. Wedding words 48. Ingredient in Creme Brulee French Toast 49. Attract a Fact Checker’s attention 50. Ones with fancier pics in the yearbook 51. “I tawt I taw a puddy ___” 52. Warning that the next name is outdated 53. Greek letter that looks like a P 55. Some Like it Hot activity 62. Suffer in the head, shoulders, knees or toes, knees or toes 64. Ingredient in Pork Lau Lau 65. About 10 pennies, or 5 quarters 66. House for gardening tools 67. Close a door, dramatically 68. Present at birth 69. Some say the darndest things

70. Dolly the sheep was one 71. Fill up the washing machine Down 1. Tulip handle 2. Westernmost nation in South America 3. Wood-choppers 4. Pleasure boat 5. “I wish I knew why I ___ anguished” (Marilyn Monroe) 6. Fortune teller’s map 7. Cop show, for example 8. Drive-___ window 9. Pro baseball equipment 10. Long in the tooth 11. Pass a vision test 13. Layers of sedimentary rock 15. Boston basketballer 21. Musical masterpiece 22. Most populated Hawaiian island 26. Subject of a Shakespeare tragedy 27. Dieters Jack, and his wife 28. Scored 1600 on the SAT 29. Yankees catcher, Jorge 30. Of highest quality 32. Good place to buy used baby clothes 36. Sleeve lngth. 37. Perfect score in Roman bowling 38. They come after L is said and done 43. Tonight Show host before Fallon 44. Removes waste from a cell 45. Baptism, basically 46. “The only ___ for time is so that everything doesn’t happen at once” (Einstein) 54. Unremarkable 56. Magenta and maroon 57. Create an editorial cartoon 58. European capital city 59. Fascinated by 60. Letters on a Final Four trophy 61. Modify a stallion 62. Seek advice from Dear Abby 63. Greek letter that looks like an X

Answers on page 36.

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

Caregivers WE CARE HOME CARE LLC! We are now accepting new clients. If you need assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, grooming, medication reminders, meal preparation, feeding, errands, daily lite housekeeping/maintaining a comfortable living environment, companionship, and more. All of our plans are custom designed to fit your individual needs. All of our aides are state license, CPR certified, trustworthy, and compassionate. Please give us a call for more details at 410202-3839 to learn how we can help.

Financial WESLEY FINANCIAL GROUP, LLC Timeshare Cancellation Experts. Over $50,000,000 in timeshare debt and fees cancelled in 2019. Get free informational package and learn how to get rid of your timeshare! Free consultations. Over 450 positive reviews. Call 855-626-8703.

For Sale SACRED HEART OF JESUS CEMETERY Lot 72A, two side-by-side grave plots. $2500. Call 443-463-4344. PUT ON YOUR TV EARS and hear TV with unmatched clarity. TV Ears Original were originally $129.95 - NOW WITH THIS SPECIAL OFFER are only $59.95 with code MCB59! Call 1-833-934-0843.

Health DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 350 plus procedures. Real dental insurance - NOT just a discount plan. Do not wait! Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details! 1-844366-1003 www.dental50plus.com/320 #6258. LIFE ALERT. One press of a button sends help FAST, 24/7! At home and on the go. Mobile Pendant with GPS. FREE First Aid Kit (with subscription.) CALL 240-847-6732 FREE Brochure. MOBILEHELP, America’s Premier Mobile Medical Alert System. Whether You’re Home or Away. For Safety and Peace of Mind. No Long Term Contracts! Free Brochure! Call Today! 1240-650-9189 PORTABLE OXYGEN CONCENTRATOR May Be Covered by Medicare! Reclaim independence and mobility with the compact design and long-lasting battery of Inogen One. Free information kit! Call 855-851-0949.

Home/Handyman Services CONTINENTAL MOVERS Local long distance. $80 x two men plus one hour drive $80 Moving -deliveries- pick ups - hauling -packing Established since 1995 Cmora53607@msn.com www.continentalmovers .net 202-438-1489 — 301-340-0602. THE BATHROOM OF YOUR DREAMS for as little as $149/month! BCI Bath & Shower. Many options available. Quality materials & professional installation. Senior & Military Discounts Available. Limited Time Offer - FREE virtual in-home consultation now and SAVE 15%! Call Today! 1-855-653-0087. THINKING ABOUT INSTALLING A NEW SHOWER? American Standard makes it easy. FREE design consultation. Enjoy your shower again! Call 1-844-536-0485 today to see how you can save $1,000 on installation, or visit www.newshowerdeal.com/tbn

HOW TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED AD All classified ads must be submitted and paid for online, via our website, www.thebeaconnewspapers.com/classifieds Deadlines and Payments: To appear in the next issue, your ad text and payment must be entered by the 5th of the preceding month (for Baltimore and Howard County editions); by the 20th (for Washington and Richmond editions). Cost will be based on the number of characters and spaces in your ad: • $25 for 1-250 • $35 for 251-500. • $50 for 501-750 (maximum length). The website will calculate this for you. Note: Maryland contractors must provide a valid MHIC number. • Each real estate listing qualifies as one ad. • All ads are subject to publisher's discretion. Payment will be refunded if unacceptable for any reason.

To place your classified ad, visit www.thebeaconnewspapers.com/classifieds Home/Handyman Services

TV/Cable

ELIMINATE GUTTER CLEANING FOREVER! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today. 15% off Entire Purchase. 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-844-359-6933.

DIRECTV - Every live football game, every Sunday - anywhere - on your favorite device. Restrictions apply. Call IVS - 1-888-572-4953.

STAY IN YOUR HOME LONGER with an American Standard Walk-In Bathtub. Receive up to $1,500 off, including a free toilet, and a lifetime warranty on the tub and installation! Call us at 1-877240-2061 or visit www.walkintubquote.com/beacon

DISH NETWORK. $59.99 for 190 Channels! Blazing Fast Internet, $19.99/mo. (where available.) Switch & Get a FREE $100 Visa Gift Card. FREE Voice Remote. FREE HD DVR. FREE Streaming on ALL Devices. Call today! 1-844-560-5837.

Wanted

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

Miscellaneous BURIAL PLOTS: 3 spaces in beautiful Woodlawn Cemetery historic section. $1,100 ea. I will sell 1, 2, or all 3 for $3,000. Approx. 1/3 of what the cemetery is selling these for. Call 410-8813312 for more info.

Personals TIRED OF BEING ALONE? Reach out to find your Soulmate at: www.CompanionOutreach.com

CASH FOR ESTATES, moving etc; I buy a wide range of items. Buy out/clean up. www.atticllc.com Gary Roman; 301-520-0755. CASH FOR JEWELRY; I buy a wide range of jewelry; gold, silver, costume, watches, turquoise, coins, school rings, etc. Gary Roman; 301-5200755. MONEY, TIME TO SELL! CALL GREG, 1717-658-7954. We buy sterling silver flatware, jewelry, gold, silver, coins, watches, paper money, antiques, toys, bottles, comic books, records, pottery, art glass, vintage military and old sporting items (baseball, football and boxing) just about anything old. Make the right choice! You have something to sell give me a call. Greg 1-717-658-7954

Thanks for reading the Beacon!

ADVERTISERS IN THIS ISSUE Clinical Studies

Housing

Early COVID Study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 Recovered from COVID Study . . . . . . . . .14 Exposed to COVID Study . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

Alta At Regency Crest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Brooke Grove . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40 Charlestown/Erickson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Enterprise Residential . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34 Evergreens at Columbia Town Center . . .16 Park View Apartments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34 Residences at Vantage Point . . . . . . . . . . .11 Shriner Court . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33 Willow Manor at Fairland . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Events Beacon Virtual 50+Expo . . . . . . . . . . . . .3, 4 COGS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37

Funeral Services Cremation Society of Maryland . . . . . . . .12 Going Home Cremation & Funeral Care .35 Harry H. Witzke’s Family Funeral Home, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33 MacNabb Funeral Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Sol Levinson & Bros., Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . .29

Home Health Care A-1 Action Nursing Care . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Homewatch Caregivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Options for Senior America . . . . . . . . . . .16

Perfect Sleep Chair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28 Perfect Walker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 Up Bed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24

Senior/Government Services Howard County 50+ Connection . . . . .25-26 Howard County Recycling . . . . . . . . . . . .30

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

Legal Services

Theatre/Entertainment

HELPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29

Candlelight Concerts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37 Celebration of the Arts . . . . . . . . . . . . .17-24 Columbia Pro Cantare . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36

Medical/Health Age Well Senior Fitness . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 Dr. Jeannine George-Richardson, DPM . .11 Medical Eye Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 United Healthcare . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Retail/Services Columbia’s Village Centers . . . . . . . . . . .33

Volunteers/Careers AARP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31 Beacon Sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35 Meals on Wheels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

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

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MEMORY SUPPORT PROGRAM For residents with Alzheimer’s or dementia, we offer a special assisted living option with: Specially trained memory support staff An interactive lifestyle that maximizes choice and independence Tailored LIFE® enrichment programming that connects each resident to his or her past Group activities that allow residents to enjoy the outdoors and a thriving social life

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