October 2010 | DC Beacon

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VOL.22, NO.10

Third career in fourth quarter

OCTOBER 2010

I N S I D E …

PHOTO BY FRANK KLEIN

By Barbara Ruben After serving for 20 years in the Maryland General Assembly, Gloria Lawlah thought it might be time to retire at 68.

“I was quite ready to come home and hit the golf balls,” she recalled of what ended up being a very short-lived hiatus from public service.

Just a month later, in February 2007, she was appointed Maryland’s Acting Secretary of Aging — a job made permanent the following month.

Lawlah thought, “I have landed a heck of a job, and just in the nick of time, since I’m in the midst of aging myself.”

As Secretary and head of Maryland’s Department of Aging, Lawlah is working to manage and expand healthcare, housing and other programs as the proportion of older adults in Maryland, as elsewhere across the country, continues to climb rapidly.

“We’re surrounded by our elders,” she said. “We’re surrounded by wisdom.

That’s the way I look at it.”

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LEISURE & TRAVEL

Something for everyone in Branson, Mo.; plus, a refuge for both wildlife and tourists on Florida’s Gulf Coast, and cruise line contracts that leave you high and dry page 47

The fourth quarter With our steadily increasing longevity, many people’s lives can now be divided into quarters, Lawlah said, the fourth quarter being from 75 to 100 years old.

“The system has to be geared now to take care of the fourth quarter, which didn’t exist years ago. We [thought we] didn’t need to worry about that, because we were all going to be dead,” she said with her customary forthrightness. “Our [support] systems were not designed for us to live this long.”

Much of Lawlah’s work now focuses on how to provide the services this age group needs and how to prepare for the rapid growth we are facing in its numbers.

One of the most important pieces of the puzzle, she thinks, is figuring out how best to help people stay in their homes as they age. It’s often called “aging in place.”

The goal is to provide “wrap-around services in the home, where [people] feel comfortable and secure. If you can keep them healthier and keep them in their homes, you’re going to cut in half the amount of money” it costs.

“They’re [also] going to be much better off mentally,” she said, citing a program called Money Follows the Person. This

ARTS & STYLE

Maryland Secretary of Aging Gloria Lawlah enjoys gathering her extended family — from her 100-year-old mother-in-law to her six grandchildren — in the backyard of her home in Temple Hills, Md. She and the Department of Aging she heads are working to provide more ways to help older adults stay in their homes as they age.

Medicaid demonstration project helps bring people out of nursing institutions and puts them back into their homes and communities. [See “Program shows them the way to go home,” in the July Beacon.]

Putting theory into practice One component to helping seniors age in place is strong family ties, Lawlah believes. That’s why she and her husband moved her mother-in-law (now 100 years old) to the home next door to theirs in Temple Hills, Md., back in 1997.

Lawlah praises her mother-in-law, who graduated from the University of Chicago in 1933, as a great role model.

“She always was so progressive in her thinking, always saying women should be equal to men in all ways. She always supported me in everything I wanted to do and supported me when I wanted to run for office.”

Lawlah, who has three children and six grandchildren, likes to gather her extended family at her house and in the large backyard that they share with her motherin-law. There the family can play games or hang out in the rose garden or large screened carriage house.

“It’s intergenerational fun. It certainly See LAWLAH, page 46

The Embassy Series returns, plus; play about theater class mirrors real life, “Cathy” comic strip creator bids farewell, and Bob Levey talks back page 53

LAW & MONEY 6 k Blue chip stocks are on sale k Free international phone calls FITNESS & HEALTH 18 k Flu shot? Make mine a double k Beware of belly bulge SPOTLIGHT ON AGING k Newsletter for D.C. seniors

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VOLUNTEERS & CAREERS 44 k Promoting community service PLUS CROSSWORD, BEACON BITS, CLASSIFIEDS & MORE

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

FREE AT TWO LOCATIONS Over 50 or love som eone who is?

Bob Ryan

JC Hayward

Michael Tucker & Jill Eikenberry

WJLA 7 Meteorologist

WUSA 9 Anchor

Authors and Stars of Stage and Screen

Ballston Common Mall

White Flint

Arlington, VA Sunday, October 3 Noon – 4 p.m.

N. Bethesda, MD Sunday, October 10 Noon – 4 p.m.

With special guests JC Hayward and Bob Ryan

With special guests JC Hayward, Michael Tucker and Jill Eikenberry

INFORMATIVE EXHIBITS CELEBRITY SPEAKERS HEALTH SCREENINGS ENTERTAINMENT • GIVEAWAYS Win round-trip Acela Express tickets to NYC Michael Tucker and Jill Eikenberry transportation provided by Amtrak

To exhibit, sponsor, volunteer, or for more information, call 301-949-9766.

GOLD SPONSORS

SILVER SPONSORS

BRONZE SPONSORS

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October 3 & October 10 Flu Shots

Health Screenings

Bring your Medicare card for a free flu vaccination. Also available for a fee to those without Medicare.

Dozens of Exhibitors Healthcare providers, home improvement and retirement communities, theatres, legal and financial advisors, travel services, government agencies, nonprofit organizations and more.

At Ballston Common Mall Flu Shots, Blood Pressure, Glaucoma Screening

At White Flint

Computer Classes (at White Flint)

Flu Shots, Osteoporosis & Glaucoma Screening, Blood Pressure, Hearing Tests

Door Prizes Win round-trip tickets for two to NYC aboard Amtrak Acela Express

Entertainment “ F a s c i n a t in ’ R h y t h m ” – Computer education courtesy of SeniorTech and the Jewish Council for the Aging

Celebrity Autographs Exercise Demonstrations At White Flint Only

Performing Sinatra and swing favorites, with Rick on keyboard and Adelaide at the mike.

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Talking technology Are you a tech-savvy Internet lover, or ioned newsprint, and while lots of technolcomputer-phobic, or something in be- ogy goes into producing the Beacon, you tween? Well, you’ve got to be don’t need much help (other in that description somethan glasses or contacts, perwhere! haps) to read it.

I know I’m an in-betweener, But you could be reading myself. As with the old saw this online, in the digital verabout how some people live to sion of the Beacon that’s eat and others eat to live, I use found on our website, a computer, smartphone and www.theBeaconNewspathe Internet to live. pers.com.

But I know plenty of people There are a few benefits to FROM THE who live to use technology. the online version: when you It’s not only how they get PUBLISHER come across a web address, their work done, how they re- By Stuart P. Rosenthal like in the sentence above, search, and how they commuyou can just click on it to go nicate with their co-workers, business as- the website. Can’t do that with newsprint. sociates and children.

Not yet, anyway.

It’s also how they have fun, how they You can also print our articles with the meet new people, how they engage with click of a mouse, search present or past ispeople they know, express themselves, lis- sues for particular topics, visit the webten to music, view art, pursue romance — sites referenced in ads with a click, copy in short, do almost everything other than passages and paste them into e-mails or travel and physically interact with others. word processing documents. Even all Technology is also changing how peo- that’s pretty old hat, as far as the web goes. ple read newspapers. Of course, you are But we’re entering the 21st century, most likely seeing these words on old-fash- even here at the Beacon. In a few weeks,

Beacon The

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The Beacon is a monthly newspaper dedicated to inform, serve, and entertain residents of the greater Washington D.C. and Greater Baltimore areas, and is privately owned. Readership exceeds 300,000.

Subscriptions are available via first-class mail ($36) or third-class mail ($12), prepaid with order. D.C. residents: add 5.75 percent for sales tax; MD residents: add 6 percent for sales tax. Send subscription order to the office listed below.

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CIRCULATION AUDITED BY

Publication of advertising contained herein does not necessarily constitute endorsement. Signed columns represent the opinions of the writers, and not necessarily the opinion of the publisher.

• Publisher/Editor ....................Stuart P. Rosenthal • Associate Publisher..............Judith K. Rosenthal • Vice President of Operations ....Gordon Hasenei • Director of Sales ................................Alan Spiegel • Managing Editor............................Barbara Ruben • Graphic Designer ..............................Kyle Gregory

2009 Outstanding Publication Award

• Assistant Operations Manager ..........Roger King • Advertising Representatives ........Doug Hallock, ..........................................Kristian Dixon, Ron Manno • Staff Writer ..................................................Delia Sava

we hope to be unveiling an all-new website that offers many more benefits.

And in preparation for that, we would like to ask you a few questions that will help us tailor the site to your needs. This is a completely confidential questionnaire.

We will not be sharing your individual responses with anyone or selling any data to others.

We simply want to know what your technology interests are and how we can best incorporate them into our new website.

Please look over the survey on the facing page and answer as many questions as pertain to you. Then return your survey to us by mail or fax.

Or, if you find the survey isn’t relevant to you, or have additional thoughts about our website, feel free to send us your comments via e-mail (info@theBeaconNewspapers.com) or call us at (301) 949-9766.

As an incentive for you to reply in one way or another, we will be giving away a $50 CVS gift card to two respondents at random. Please be sure to provide your name and phone number or e-mail address when you reply so we can contact you if you win.

Thank you for your participation!

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

Dear Editor: Sacrilegious though it is around here to say so, I’d like to speak out against Social Security.

Any government-provided “entitlement” other than for veterans is destructive. It undermines the self-discipline needed for providing materially and socially for one’s own future. It subverts social solidarity and the kind of routine and personalized caring and sharing that any society needs to flourish. It keeps taxes high, which hurts business and limits job availability.

As someone who is downwardly mobile — from an upper-middle-class upbringing to a (correctible) disability, then county and state aid, and then, from age 39 to my present age of 55 on Social Security Disability Insurance — I know how destructive a culture dependent on the dole can be: A life wasted because the community was not really there for me — because it had learned to leave “help” to someone else.

America is addicted to the dole, and we need, for moral as well as economic reasons, to kick the habit.

Sharon Kass Wheaton, Md. Dear Editor: Your editorial in the September issue (“Make your vote count”) calls on the elder-

ly to lobby in effect for local and state government programs that assist low-income seniors and persons with disabilities.

Doing so turns the elderly into just another special interest group competing for government subsidies, laudable as the end goal is.

Since the number of causes worthy of welfare and compassion are almost infinite, individuals with their own money, not government officials with forced taxpayer revenues, should decide what charities to support.

“Forced charity” is an oxymoron after all.

Charity by its nature should be voluntary.

Also, forcefully obligating any individual to support another is to make the obligated enslaved, to a degree, or an indentured servant at best. That should not happen to free people.

Gerald Schneider Kensington, Md. Dear Editor: I’m 89 years old and I’m looking at your July issue, and doggonit, it’s a good issue!

The cover story is just great, and your health story about insulin is something I’d never heard before. I want to compliment you on the Beacon. It’s great. Keep up the good work.

Bill Wellington Via phone

BEACON BITS

Oct. 25

MANY MEDITATIONS The Wellness Community - Greater Washington, D.C. will hold a

free class on various meditation techniques, such as transcendental meditation,

The Beacon, P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915 (301) 949-9766 • E-mail: info@thebeaconnewspapers.com Submissions: The Beacon welcomes reader contributions. Deadline for editorial is the 10th of the month preceding the month of publication. Deadline for ads is the 10th of the month preceding the month of publication. See page 61 for classified advertising details. Please mail or e-mail all submissions.

© Copyright 2010 The Beacon Newspapers, Inc.

mindfulness meditation, walking meditation and Trataka (third eye meditation) on Monday, Oct. 25 from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. The class will be held at 5430 Grosvenor Lane, Suite 100, Bethesda, Md. For more information, contact (301) 493-5002 or twcdc@wellnesscommunitydc.org.

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Washington D.C. ❏Friendship Terrace (See ad on page 37) ❏The Georgetown (See ad on page 12) ❏Methodist Home of D.C. (See ad on page 15) ❏St. Mary’s Court (See ad on page 27)

Maryland ❏Asbury Methodist Village (See ad on page 13) ❏Brooke Grove (See ad on page 45) ❏Charter House (See ad on page 26) ❏Churchill Senior Living (See ad on page 35) ❏Classic Residence in Chevy Chase (See ad on page 8) ❏Covenant Village (See ad on page 34) ❏Emerson House (See ad on page 34) ❏Homecrest House (See ad on page 17) ❏Kensington Park (See ad on page 8) ❏Landow House (See ad on page 31) ❏National Lutheran Home/Village (See ad on page 38) ❏Park View at Bladensburg (See ad on page 17) ❏Park View at Columbia (See ad on page 17) ❏Park View at Ellicott City (See ad on page 17) ❏Park View at Laurel (See ad on page 17) ❏Renaissance Gardens Riderwood (See ad on page 19) ❏The Residence on Greenbelt (See ad on page 23) ❏Revitz House (See ad on page 31) ❏Riderwood Village (See ad on page 25) ❏Ring House (See ad on page 31) ❏Shriner Court (See ad on page 34) ❏Victory Forest (See ad on page 30) ❏Willow Manor (See ad on page 22)

Virginia ❏Chesterbrook Residences (See ad on page 20) ❏Culpepper Garden (See ad on page 59) ❏Greenspring Village (See ad on page 25) ❏Kendrick Court (See ad on page 22) ❏Olley Glen Retirement Community (See ad on page 28) ❏Quantum Affordable Apts. (See ad on page 34) ❏Renaissance Gardens Greenspring (See ad on page 19) ❏Sommerset (See ad on page 39) ❏The Virginian (See ad on back page)

Please take a moment to answer these questions: When are you thinking of moving? ❏ immediately ❏ within 6 months ❏ within a year ❏ just looking What type of housing are you interested in? ❏ market-rate apartment or condo ❏ limited income active retirement ❏ market rate active retirement ❏ assisted living ❏ continuing care retirement community Name________________________________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________________________ City______________________________________State______Zip________________ Phone (day)__________________________(evening)_________________________ E-mail_________________________________________________________________

Check the boxes you’re interested in and return this form, together with the reader survey if you like, to: The Beacon, P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915-2227 Or fax to (301) 949-8966.

Reader Internet Survey Please complete and return this survey. Your answers will not be shared with others or sold.

All completed surveys will be entered into a random drawing for a $50 CVS gift card

You may win $50!

1. Do you have access to a computer with Internet? ❒ Yes ❒ No 2. Do you use a smartphone (iPhone, Blackberry, Centro, Treo, etc.)? ❒ Yes ❒ No If yes, do you access the Internet on your phone? ❒ Yes ❒ No 3. How often do you go online? ❒ daily ❒ a few times a week ❒ once a week or less ❒ never (If never, skip to the last question.)

4. On days you go online, how much time in total do you spend? ❒ More than 4 hours ❒ 2 to 4 hours ❒ 1 to 2 hours ❒ less than an hour 5. What are your favorite websites to visit? ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ 6. How often do you engage in the following activities when online?

Nearly always Sometimes Seldom or never Send e-mails Use search engines Participate in forums Post comments Read blogs Play games Chat Instant message Look for jokes Click on banner ads Make online purchases Read news Visit YouTube Listen to podcasts Listen to music Use Twitter Use Facebook or MySpace Host/view photos online Use LinkedIn

❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒

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7. If you read blogs, which do you like the most? ____________________________________________________________ 8. If you use Twitter, whom do you follow most? ____________________________________________________________ 9. In what ways do you use Facebook? ❒ to locate old friends ❒ to stay in touch with friends ❒ to communicate with grandchildren ❒ to post and view photos ❒ to “like” businesses 10. If you participate in forums, what topics interest you most? ❒ health ❒ money ❒ politics ❒ shopping tips ❒ hobbies ❒ celebrities ❒ fashion 11. Do you like to use puzzles online? ❒ Yes ❒ No If yes, what types of puzzles? ❒ crosswords ❒ word games ❒ Sudoku ❒ numbers games ❒ visual games 12. Would you be interested in participating in a focus group about our new website? ❒ Yes ❒ No Please provide the following information so we may contact you if you win a $50 gift card or express an interest in helping us further with our website. Prize drawing will be held November 1, 2010.

Name: ______________________________________________________ E-mail: ______________________________________________________ Telephone: __________________________________________________ Complete and mail to: The Beacon, P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD, 20915-2227.

You may return the survey together with the adjoining Free Housing Info Form.

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Check the boxes of communities from whom you would like to receive information and mail or fax this form.

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Money Law &

FREE INTERNATIONAL CALLS How to use the Internet to make free phone calls worldwide FEWER ADVANTAGES? Healthcare reform means some Medicare Advantage changes CLEARING UP IRA CONFUSION How to contribute to and withdraw from Roth and traditional IRAs CHECK OUT FUNERAL CHARGES Yes, you need to shop around even for funeral arrangements

Time to buy: blue chip stocks are on sale The U.S. economy is a mess, and Eu- once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to buy these rope and Japan aren’t doing any better. At companies or funds that specialize in first blush, shunning stocks them. Even after last month’s altogether seems the wise market rise, these stocks still course — even after Septemlook like fabulous bargains to ber’s rally. me.

But a funny thing has hapA few personal pened in the stock market. favorites High-quality, large companies Pfizer (symbol PFE) is the — blue chips — are trading at world’s largest drug company steep discounts to smaller, with annual sales of nearly debt-laden stocks. Ditto for mu$70 billion. Pfizer’s revenues tual funds that invest in them.

SAVVY SAVER will take a hit when cholesThese huge, growing comBy Steven T. Goldberg terol drug Lipitor loses patent panies typically have little or no protection next year. debt, and many are carrying But its takeover of Wyeth brings in a stabillions of dollars in cash on their balance sheets. They’re making increasing sales into ble of new drugs to boost sales. The stock the one part of the global economy that’s trades at just 8 times analysts’ estimated earnings for the next 12 months. In comgrowing rapidly — emerging markets.

I’m baffled as to why these stocks are parison, the long-term average price-earnso cheap. My pet theory: Large-company ings ratio for Standard & Poor’s 500-stock growth stocks, particularly those in tech- index is 15.5. Pfizer yields 4.2 percent.

Apple (AAPL) is arguably the most innonology and telecom, were slaughtered in the 2000-2002 bear market. Perhaps in- vative company in the world. It continues to turn out gadgets that people buy — vestors are still gun shy.

But the truth is it doesn’t matter much even in a terrible economy. Its new iPhone why the best companies in the world are and iPad have had terrific launches.

Here’s the kicker: Apple trades at priceselling at dirt-cheap prices relative to their earnings, revenues, book value and any earnings ratio of just 16 on estimated earnings. That compares with a P/E of 250 in other measure you can think of.

What matters is that this is probably a 2002! So long as CEO Steve Jobs, appar-

ently recovered from a liver transplant, stays healthy, the stock looks solid.

Right behind Apple in creativity in technology is Google (GOOG). It dominates advertising sales on the Internet — which will surely rise in coming years. It’s using some of its $25 billion cash hoard to develop a host of new businesses. Yet its P/E is 17 — compared to 132 in 2004, the year it went public.

Johnson & Johnson (JNJ) boasts a huge and widely diversified health-care business, including consumer products, pharmaceuticals and medical devices. It has had recent problems with manufacturing safety. But the stock trades at a mere 12 times estimated earnings.

PepsiCo (PEP) may not sell the healthiest snacks, but people eat them. Lay’s and Doritos are big global brands, as are Pepsi, Gatorade and Tropicana. Sales are increasing rapidly in emerging markets. PepsiCo trades at a P/E of 14.

Funds offer security Prefer funds? I think they’re a safer bet.

My favorite is Primecap Odyssey Growth (POGRX; telephone 800-7292307). A few managers who left the highly regarded adviser-sold American funds founded Primecap in 1984.

Over the past 20 years, Vanguard Prime-

cap has returned an annualized 12.4 percent — an average of 3.5 percentage points per year better than the S&P 500.

The Vanguard fund is closed to new investors, but Primecap Odyssey is run by the same managers, and charges annual expenses of just 0.71 percent. The managers currently have 40 percent of the fund invested in healthcare stocks.

Fidelity doesn’t offer too many funds that I like. Its corporate culture is ruthlessly competitive; I don’t think it fosters success.

But Fidelity Contrafund (FCNTX, 800544-9797) is an exception. Manager Will Danoff has steered the fund to an annualized return of 12 percent over the past 20 years.

The fund has assets of $68 billion, but Danoff has managed this much money for years. What’s more, the fund’s size doesn’t pose much of a problem in buying and selling the mega-caps he favors today. About 30 percent of the fund is in tech and telecom. Expenses are 1.01 percent annually.

Steven T. Goldberg is a freelance writer and investment advisor in Silver Spring, Md. He welcomes reader questions. E-mail steve@tginvesting.com or write to Steven Goldberg, 9005 Woodland Dr., Silver Spring, MD 20910. You may also call him at (301) 650-6567.

Strings attached to high-interest accounts

By Candice Choi With interest rates so stingy, making your money grow requires a little extra work.

That’s why checking accounts that promise competitive interest rates are getting so much attention lately. The rates dangled by some banks for these accounts are more than triple the current 0.67 percent average rate on a one-year certificate of deposit, according to Bankrate.com.

Yet high-interest checking accounts are often laden with stipulations in the fine print, and can even end up costing those who aren’t careful.

And for large sums of money, it often makes more sense to park your money in a savings account that earns a higher interest rate.

Before you jump at any offers, here are

a few points to consider.

Adjustable interest rates The first thing you should know is that interest rates on checking and savings accounts aren’t locked in. Unlike with CDs, banks can change rates at any time.

So if an advertised rate catches your eye, don’t bother crunching numbers on how much interest income you might reap over a few years.

The rate adjustments banks continually make aren’t tied to any particular benchmark either. Instead, banks say they tweak rates based on their internal financial situations.

Additionally, if an advertised rate sounds too good to be true, it might be because it’s an introductory, promotional rate.

At Everbank, which offers interest-bear-

ing checking accounts, a guaranteed 2.25 percent rate only lasts for three months.

After that, the rate drops depending on the balance. Balances less than $10,000 currently earn 0.51 percent interest.

There’s also reason to believe banks may lower rates on checking accounts in the near future, said Bob Davis, a spokesman with the American Bankers Association.

That’s because banks primarily fund their interest payments on checking accounts from the fees they collect from businesses for debit card transactions.

However, new financial regulations will eventually limit those fees. So banks can’t be as flexible with the rates they offer, Davis said.

“This is money customers can demand at any time,” he noted.

Balances may matter The interest rates banks advertise don’t always apply across the board. Banks often tier rates so that only customers who maintain the biggest balances earn the highest rates.

To earn the most competitive 0.25 percent rate on a checking account at Bank of America, for example, you need to maintain a $100,000 balance. That amounts to $250 a year. But the rate drops to just 0.05 percent for balances less than $10,000.

Also keep in mind that an advertised rate may only apply to a capped amount.

This tends to be the case with credit unions, which are nonprofits owned by their members.

At the Northern Federal Credit Union in upstate New York, members can earn See BANK ACCOUNTS, page 7

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

From page 6 4.51 percent interest on their checking accounts. But that’s only on balances up to $25,000. The rate drops to 1.5 percent for balances higher than $25,000 but below $50,000. Beyond that, the rate falls to 0.5 percent.

There are other conditions with the checking account, including that members set up a recurring direct deposit and make at least 15 debit card transactions of at least $5 each month.

Credit unions generally tend to offer more generous rates. But they also limit membership to a particular region, profession, university or other group. In the case of the Northern Federal Credit Union, it’s generally those who live or work in the three-county area surrounding Watertown, N.Y.

Fees eat into earnings Read the terms carefully to see if there are any fees associated with the account.

At Bank of America, customers who don’t maintain a $10,000 balance across all

their accounts incur a $25 monthly fee. So an interest-checking account wouldn’t be worthwhile if you maintained an $8,000 balance. Over a year, you’d earn $4 in interest but pay $300 in maintenance fees.

Overdraft charges can also eat away at your earnings. This shouldn’t be an issue if you’re maintaining a relatively large balance to earn a higher rate.

At Schwab, however, there’s no balance requirement to earn the current 0.50 percent interest rate on checking accounts.

But if you overdraw your account, the needed funding is borrowed from a brokerage account that’s automatically set up for you when you open a checking account.

The overdrawn balance incurs an interest rate that’s tiered depending on the amount of the violation. If you overdrew your account by $20, the rate is 8.5 percent.

The bottom line? You don’t want to change banks based on interest rates alone. Especially because rates aren’t locked in, other considerations such as service and convenience should be factored in. — AP

Oct. 17

YOUR FINANCIAL FUTURE

Beacon Publisher Stuart Rosenthal and Beacon financial columnist Steven Goldberg will speak at a free seminar, “Saving for and Spending in Retirement,� on Sunday, Oct. 17 from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Topics include financial planning, investments, reverse mortgages and software programs for preserving your nest egg. The seminar is part of Bikur Cholim of Greater Washington’s eldercare series and will be held at Kemp Mill Synagogue, 11910 Kemp Mill Rd., Silver Spring, Md. Reserve your spot by calling Audrey Siegel at (202) 331-4481.

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Oct. 14

BEACON BITS

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Bank Accounts

ATTORNEY AT LAW

Estate Planning & Administration MONTGOMERY COUNTY CANDIDATES FORUM Candidates for Montgomery County Council and County Executive

will participate in a candidates forum on Thursday, Oct. 14 from 9 to 11 a.m. at Holiday Park Senior Center, 3950 Ferrara Dr., Wheaton, Md. The event is spon-

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sored by GROWS (Grass Root Organization for the Well-being of Seniors). Candidates will discuss affordable housing, transportation options and home-based services for older adults. For more information, call (301) 765-3325.

Oct. 13

FEDERAL HEALTHCARE BENEFITS The National Active and Retired Federal Employees (NARFE ) Arlington Chapter will meet at 12:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 13.

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Gayle Nelson from Blue Cross Blue Shield will discuss changes expected in Federal healthcare benefits. Guests are welcome at all general meetings. The meeting will take place at Culpepper Garden Senior Center, 4435 N. Pershing Dr., Arlington, Va. Parking is permitted in the Culpepper Garden parking lot with a pass obtained at the front desk. For more information, call (703) 241-5530.

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Law & Money

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

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

9

Free long-distance calls via the Internet The first time my daughter went over- stein, managing director of Mobile Ecosysseas with her college classmates, I called tems, a Boston telecommunications consultour cell phone company to ining firm. “The best way to call is quire about international conon a laptop.” nection plans. For just $6 a All about VoIP month, they told me, I could This is a beginner’s guide get “discounted” calls to wherto making phone calls on your ever my daughter traveled. computer using Voice over InSome $200 in “discounted” ternet Protocol, or VoIP for calling charges later — which short. added up to less than two Voice over Internet conhours of phone time — I realverts the sound of your voice ized that what I bought was MONEY into a digital signal that travels an expensive lesson on inter- MATTERS over the Internet and is renational dialing. I’ve since By Kathy Kristof ceived just like an ordinary learned that keeping in touch phone call. with friends and relatives In some cases, you can make these calls overseas can be cheap — sometimes even free — but you may need to learn how to using a pre-programmed phone that looks and feels just like the phone you’re used talk into your computer screen.

“Making calls without an overseas number to. But more often you’ll be making calls is frightfully expensive,” said Mark Lowen- directly from your computer or laptop.

See FREE CALLS, page 10

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IDENTITY THEFT: PROTECT YOURSELF

Learn how to protect yourself from America’s fastest growing crime by attending a free seminar at Langston-Brown Senior Center, 2121 N. Culpeper St., Arlington, Va. on Tuesday, Oct. 26 from 1 to 2 p.m.

Rosemary Hill, from the nonprofit Money Management International, will explain how to protect yourself from thieves who want to steal your information. Call (703) 228-6300 to register.

Oct. 6+

Australia, for example, would drop from $1.69 a minute to $1.29 a minute. That means you’ll still pay $77.40 an hour.

Got a grandchild who likes to text-message? Each “whazup?” could cost $1.

Besides, despite the incomprehensible name, VoIP is actually simple, as long as you have the proper equipment.

To make it work, you’ll need a highspeed Internet connection and a late-

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Why would you want to learn about anything that sounds as intimidating as that?

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COMPETE IN TODAY’S JOB MARKET

The Jewish Social Service Agency and Montgomery County public libraries will offer a free workshop on how to be more competitive in today’s job market. Facilitated by Wendy Morris, career counselor with JSSA employment and career services, the free workshop will be held on Wednesday, Oct. 6 at 10:30 a.m. at the Rockville Memorial Library, 21 Maryland Ave., Rockville, Md. and on Wednesday, Oct. 27 at 10:30 a.m. at Quince Orchard Library, 15831 Quince Orchard Rd., Gaithersburg, Md. To register, call (301) 610-8380 or e-mail: careerinfo@jssa.org.

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Law & Money

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

Free calls From page 9 model computer or laptop — ideally with a built-in Web cam (a camera that focuses on the computer user whenever activated).

If either your computer or your Internet connection is slow, your phone calls can freeze up and make communication difficult, if not impossible.

Setting up Skype Let’s look at how you’d set up on Skype, the largest of the half-dozen companies offering phone service through Internet connections.

Assuming you’re signing up to keep in

touch with a particular person (or people) as cheaply as possible, you should encourage those individuals to also sign up and give you their Skype contact information.

Skype-to-Skype calls are free, no matter the distance.

To sign up, go to Skype.com and click on “get Skype.” The company’s software will automatically detect whether you’re calling from a Windows-based computer or a Mac and will suggest the proper software.

You’re going to click on “download now” and click again to accept Skype’s “terms of service.” (The terms of service are largely boilerplate, but they specify that Skype can’t be used to replace your landline because it doesn’t offer emergency phone

BEACON BITS

Oct. 12

FINANCIAL ISSUES FOR CAREGIVERS Providing professional long-term care for a loved one can be ex-

pensive and deplete assets quickly. Attend this free seminar to learn how to maximize your resources and avoid common money mistakes. The event is sponsored by the Fairfax Caregiver Seminar Consortium on Tuesday, Oct. 12, from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Herndon Fortnightly Library, 768 Center St., Herndon, Va. For directions, call (703) 437-8855.

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You can click the “call phones” button with Skype and plug in the phone number. But that call will cost you, though nothing like international landline long distance.

The company’s “unlimited” calling plans start at $2.99 a month, said Simon Longbottom, Skype’s director of product marketing. Calling without a plan costs about 2 cents a minute.

To complete a call to a landline, you’ll need to “buy Skype credit” or sign up for a monthly service plan. Either feature works much like making any other online purchase. You enter your credit card or PayPal information and the vendor charges your account.

The one funky thing: Even with a highspeed connection and a fast computer, those video calls are a little like old “Godzilla” movies. You can often hear the conversation before you see your friend’s lips moving.

Longbottom said Skype continues to work on call quality, but acknowledges that slow Internet networks — or even straying too far from the source of the wireless signal — can affect performance.

Still, my $200 European phone bill could have been cut to $2 using a VoIP service like Skype. I’m willing to put up with a little bit of funkiness to save $198.

Kathy M. Kristof welcomes your comments and suggestions but regrets that she cannot respond individually to letters or phone calls. Email her at kathykristof24@gmail.com. © 2010 Tribune Media Services, Inc.

services, such as 911.)

Your next step is to add contacts. If you’ve set up the service with a friend who has already told you his or her contact name in the Skype directory, simply type in the name. Skype will then send your contact request to that person for approval — much like a “friend request” on Facebook.

Once he or she has accepted, that person’s contact information appears in your contact directory. Calling that individual then becomes as simple as clicking that person’s name and then the “call” or “video call” button on the screen.

If you don’t know whether someone you’d like to call has Skype, you can look up that person in the Skype directory by typing in the name. The system will then list all the like-named individuals and where they are to help you determine whether the person you’re looking for is on the list.

If the friend you want to call happens to be online, your Skype call will pop up on that person’s screen. All your friend has to do is click on “answer” and the built-in microphones on your computer or laptop will allow you to hear each other. If you’ve chosen “video call,” your Web cam will allow you to see each other, too.

By the way, if your computer or laptop doesn’t have a built-in Web cam, you can purchase one separately at a modest cost and set it on top of your monitor.

Using a phone Need to call someone who isn’t online?

BEACON BITS SENIOR SERVICES FORUM

Oct. 6

Meet Montgomery County senior service providers Dr. Odile Saddi and Jennifer Long with Aging & Disabilities Services at a forum on Wednesday, Oct. 6 at 10:30 a.m. at the Davis Library, 6400 Democracy Blvd., Bethesda, Md. Topics include transportation, home care, finances, houses, county benefits and more. For more information about this free event, call the Davis Library at (240) 777-0922.

FIXING FINANCIAL BLUNDERS

Oct. 13

Hear Grant Wing, from the nonprofit Society for Financial Awareness, give a free seminar, “Financial Blunders — Lessons We Never Learn” on Wednesday, Oct. 13 at 10 a.m. at Friendship Terrace Community located at 4201 Butterworth Pl. N.W., Washington, D.C. To reserve a seat, call Derek Johnson at (202) 244-7400.

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Law & Money

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

11

Changes to Medicare Advantage plans Dear Savvy Senior: How much will the new healthcare reform law affect Medicare Advantage?

My wife and I have used an Advantage plan for the past three years and would like to find out if we should stay with what we have, or go back to original Medicare. What can you tell us?

—Concerned Retirees Dear Retirees: It is true that the new healthcare reform law will affect many seniors who have a Medicare Advantage plan, but how much change you can expect will depend on where you live and the plan you have.

Here’s what you should know.

Fewer advantages Right now, around 24 percent of Medicare beneficiaries receive coverage through one of thousands of Medicare Advantage plans rather than original Medicare.

Advantage plans — private Medicare plans sold by insurance companies that are typically available through HMOs and PPOs — have become enormously popular over the past few years because they offer a host of extra benefits that original Medicare doesn’t provide, such as free eyeglasses, dental care, hearing aids and even gym memberships.

These extra benefits, however, have come at an extra cost. Since 2006, Medicare Advantage plans have received government subsidies that have been costing around 13 percent more than traditional Medicare.

But that’s about to change. Starting next year, as a result of changes under healthcare reform, Medicare Advantage payments will be frozen at the current levels.

And starting in 2012, Uncle Sam will begin reducing payments over the following two to six years to the insurers that administer these plans until they’re getting

the same amount of money, on average, that original Medicare spends.

What all this means is that many of the 11 million seniors that have a Medicare Advantage plan can expect their premiums to gradually increase or the extra benefits to be reduced, or both, over the coming few years. And some insurance companies may stop offering Medicare Advantage plans altogether.

But not all Medicare Advantage plans will be affected. Payment cuts will depend on whether Medicare costs in your county are high or low.

And starting in 2012, high-quality plans that have been around for a while and receive a 3.5- to 5-star government rating will be rewarded with bonus payments from the government that will offset some of the fee cuts. These plans will most likely continue operating with few changes.

Newer and low-quality plans are the ones that will change. To check how your plan rates, visit www.medicare.gov.

What to do now Your best course of action is to review your Medicare Advantage plan this fall — you can expect to receive a mailing from your insurer sometime this month explaining any cost and/or coverage changes.

If you find that your insurer is dropping your plan, or if you don’t like how your plan changes for the coming year, you can always switch to a different Advantage plan or move to original Medicare during the annual open enrollment period, which is between Nov. 15 and Dec. 31.

You can also make the switch during the Medicare Advantage open enrollment period, which is the first 45 days of 2011, between Jan. 1 and Feb.15.

If you do decide to go back to original Medicare, you’ll probably want to pur-

Need a new home, caregiver or job?

Checkout the classifieds on page 61.

chase a Part D prescription drug plan and a Medigap supplemental policy to help cover deductibles and co-pays.

You can shop and compare all Medicare health plans, prescription drug plans and Medigap policies at www.medicare.gov/find-aplan.

Or, if you don’t have Internet access, call 1-800-633-4227 and a Medicare representative can do the comparing for you over the phone.

Savvy Tips: If you need additional help or

have questions, call the Medicare Rights Center helpline at 1-800-333-4114, or contact your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP), which provides free one-on-one Medicare counseling in person or over the phone. To find a local SHIP counselor, visit www.hapnetwork.org/ship-locator, or call 1800-677-1116.

Savvy Senior is written by Jim Miller, a contributor to the NBC “Today” show. Send questions to Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070 or visit www.savvysenior.org.

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202.413.4083

12

Law & Money

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

Clearing up confusions over IRA topics I’ve never seen so much confusion press. (The rules, filled with jargon, are about a financial topic as with the five-year explained in IRS Publication 590 available rule for Roth IRA withat www.irs.gov.) Many people drawals. But even traditional also misinterpret the rules.

IRAs continue to raise quesDirect contributions tions for many. This column Let’s start with direct conaddresses some common tributions. It is stated often — concerns.

I’ve done it myself — that you Countless readers believe can take money out of a Roth incorrectly that they can’t IRA tax-free and penalty free withdraw money that’s been “if the money has been in the in their Roth IRAs less than account for at least five years five years, whether it came and you are at least 59-and-afrom a direct contribution or a THE SAVINGS half.” conversion from a traditional GAME By Humberto Cruz But that doesn’t mean (the IRA. (This mistaken belief decommon misinterpretation) ters many from considering a that all withdrawals made before 59-and-aconversion.)

Others realize they can make with- half and before five years are taxed or pedrawals before five years — actually, at any nalized. You can withdraw direct contributime — but believe they will owe taxes tions at any time for any reason without taxes or penalties. and/or penalties, which isn’t always true.

If you have contributed $10,000 to your Part of the confusion stems from the fact there are two different five-year rules Roth IRA over the years, for example, you — one for direct contributions and one for can always withdraw $10,000 without tax consequences. converted amounts.

Taxes or penalties, if any, would apply Unfortunately, for the sake of brevity, the rules are almost always oversimplified only to withdrawals of the earnings beand expressed incorrectly in the financial yond the $10,000 contributions. And the

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penalty, which is 10 percent, would apply only to IRA holders under 59-and-a-half.

Also, for all withdrawals to be tax-free and penalty-free, the money does not really have to be “in the account for at least five years.” The five-year holding period for direct contributions actually starts the first day of the tax year for which you made your first contribution to any Roth IRA account — not necessarily the one from which you are withdrawing the money.

Say you made your first Roth IRA contribution, no matter how small, on April 15, 2010, but the contribution was for the 2009 tax year. You will meet the five-year rule for withdrawals of direct contributions, including any future ones to any Roth IRA account, on Jan. 1, 2014.

Complications with conversions With money converted from a traditional IRA to a Roth, the rules get more complicated.

When you convert, you pay tax just as if you just withdrew money from the traditional IRA but without any 10 percent penalty even if you’re under 59-and-a-half.

You can withdraw the entire converted amount at any time without paying any more regular taxes because you were already taxed at the time you made the conversion.

But since you avoided the 10 percent penalty on conversion, you will have to pay the penalty if you withdraw the converted amount before age 59-and-a-half, unless See IRA TOPICS, page 14

BEACON BITS

Oct. 14

LEARN ABOUT RUSSIA Author Naomi Collins will discuss her book, Through Dark Days and

Nights: Four Decades Observing a Changing Russia on Thursday, Oct. 14 at noon, at B’nai Israel Congregation, 6301 Montrose Rd., Rockville, Md. Bring a dairy lunch to this free Hazak event. For additional information, call Jo at (301) 8816550.

Oct. 19+

SQUARE DANCING The Woods Community Center at 10100 Wards Grove Circle, Burke, Va. will host square dancing classes for those 50 and older.

Sponsored by the Burke/West Springfield Senior Center Without Walls, the activity will run from 1:45 to 3 p.m. on Tuesdays for eight consecutive weeks, starting on Tuesday, Oct. 19. Registration is required; the cost is $5 per person for Fairfax County residents and $10 for non-residents. To sign up, visit http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/rec/senior_ctr/cfw.htm or call (703) 324-5544.

Law & Money

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

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Law & Money

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

BEACON BITS

IRA topics

Oct. 28

From page 12

ITZHAK PERLMAN MOVIE Seniors Organized for Change is screening the film, In the Fiddler’s

House, starring virtuoso violinist Itzhak Perlman, on Thursday, Oct. 28 at 10:45 a.m. at Ring House, 1801 Jefferson St., Rockville, Md. There is no cost to attend the movie; if interested in staying for lunch, call Debbie Skobon for prepaid reservations at (301) 348-3760.

Oct. 29

CELEBRATE HALLOWEEN Stir up our spooky spirits and celebrate Halloween by wearing a

costume to the Langston-Brown Multi-Purpose Senior Center on Friday, Oct. 29 from 11 a.m. to noon. The Center is located at 2121 N. Culpeper St., Arlington,

you meet a five-year rule that applies to each conversion, or unless any of a dozen other exceptions listed on Publication 590 applies. Once you reach 59-and-a-half, the converted principal can always be withdrawn without taxes or penalties.

For all withdrawals from conversions to be tax-free (both converted amount and subsequent earnings), you must meet the conversion five-year rule.

A separate five-year waiting period starts the first day of the tax year you make each conversion. If you made a conversion in 2009, even on Dec. 31, the fiveyear period for that conversion is met on Jan. 1, 2014.

Va. Call (703) 228-6300 to register for this free event.

Additional IRA questions Here are answers to some questions about traditional IRAs raised by readers:

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BEACON BITS

Oct.

NEW MARYLAND CELL PHONE LAW Starting Oct. 1, Maryland will become the eighth state where driv-

ers can’t talk on a handheld cell phone while on the road. They must use hands-free devices. Drivers could be fined $40 for a first violation and $100 for subsequent ones. Drivers can only be pulled over if they are committing another offense as well, such as speeding. For a fact sheet on the new law from the Maryland Dept. of Transportation, go to www.mdot.maryland.gov/News/2010/September%202010/MarylandCellPhoneLawFactSheet.htm.

®

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

Q: I took money out of my traditional IRA for several years and paid the taxes on the withdrawals. Then I stopped withdrawing on a regular basis.

Do I still have to start withdrawing again when I turn 70 and a half? I think of this money as kind of insurance for my family.

A: It makes no difference whether you made earlier withdrawals or not. Once you turn 70 and a half, you must by law start taking minimum annual distributions from your traditional IRA. (In response to the financial crisis and plunging IRA values, Congress waived traditional IRA distributions for 2009 only, but they are back in force for 2010.)

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If your main goal is to preserve the IRA for your heirs, you may consider converting your traditional IRA to a Roth IRA, paying taxes on the conversion but in return avoiding all future mandatory withdrawals. This is a complex topic for which you may want to seek personalized professional advice.

Q: Down the road, maybe when I turn 65, could I convert my six-figure traditional IRA to an immediate lifetime income annuity without taking a big hit on taxes? I’m not sure how this would work.

A: If you cash in your traditional IRA and then buy a lifetime income annuity with the proceeds, you would — ouch! — be liable for all taxes due on the entire IRA balance.

Fortunately, you don’t have to do that.

You can instead transfer all or part of your traditional IRA into a new IRA that is in the form of a lifetime annuity that pays you a monthly income for life. This, by the way, is what I have done with part of my IRA money.

Insurance companies that issue lifetime income annuities can help with the paperwork so the annuity is properly set up as an IRA. The transfer of the IRA money would not incur any taxes.

You would, however, owe taxes on the income payments you receive from the annuity, which would be considered IRA withdrawals.

Send questions or comments to Humberto Cruz at AskHumberto@aol.com or c/o Tribune Media Services, 2225 Kenmore Ave., Buffalo, NY 14207. Personal replies are not possible.

—TMS

Law & Money

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

15

It pays to shop around, even for funerals

By David Pitt Funeral arrangements are among the steepest expenses we’ll face, but many important decisions are made emotionally rather than with a close eye on costs.

“It doesn’t matter how much you spend, it doesn’t make a person any less dead. It doesn’t mean you love them any more or less and it isn’t going to bring them back,” said Josh Slocum, executive director of Funeral Consumers Alliance, a Vermontbased nonprofit advocacy group.

He said funerals should be treated like any other consumer transaction by comparing costs and services. Charges at different funeral homes in the same metropolitan area can vary by thousands of dollars, so it pays to shop around.

A federal law enforced by the Federal Trade Commission makes comparison shopping much easier today than it was a generation ago.

The law, called the funeral rule, requires funeral directors to provide an itemized list of services and their costs. It was designed to ease the pressure on consumers to buy bundled services, some of which they may not need.

New choices in caskets The rule also stopped funeral directors from forcing consumers to buy a casket

from them, often at inflated prices. Funeral homes must accept a casket or urn purchased elsewhere.

In recent years, competition has increased with online and discount retailers offering consumers more choices than ever. Caskets, for example, can be bought from Walmart and Costco.

It’s all good for consumers, who for decades had little choice but to buy from their local funeral home, said Matthew Contor, an antitrust attorney and partner with the New York-based law firm Constantine Cannon.

“If we allow for competition to flourish rather than for it to be stunted, consumers will have the opportunity to get the most quality and least cost for funeral products and services,” he said.

A cautionary note about buying caskets or funeral supplies from an online vendor: Make sure the casket can be delivered to the funeral home on time, said James Olson, funeral director at the LippertOlson Funeral Home in Sheboygan, Wis. Although funeral homes must comply with the FTC rules, it’s important to know that online vendors and cemeteries do not, said Olson, who also is a spokesman for the National Funeral Directors Association, a trade group.

That could soon change, however.

A bill, sponsored by Rep. Bobby Rush, an Illinois Democrat, would require the FTC to regulate other funeral services vendors including cemeteries. A congressional committee approved the bill in July, and it is now awaiting consideration by the full House.

Funeral planning advice Here are some tips to keep in mind when shopping for funeral services, whether you’re planning for yourself or arranging the funeral of a loved one.

1. Know your consumer rights.

Anyone who walks into a funeral home and inquires must be given a general price list. Customers must be allowed to take this list home to consider the costs.

If you shop by telephone, funeral directors are required to provide price information to callers.

Funeral homes often offer packages, but consumers have the right to choose only the separate goods and services they want.

Sometimes packages cost less than their individual components. If you’re comparing one funeral home to another, make sure the packages include the same set of services.

The FTC outlines the funeral rule and provides more guidance online at http:// tiny.cc/5ort5.

The national funeral directors trade group offers a consumers bill of rights at

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See FUNERAL PLANNING, page 16

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16

Law & Money

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

Will Your Money y Last As Long g As You Do? At Capitol Retirement Strategies, our goal is for every one of our clients to ask and answer that one simple question.

If your assets need to be organized to supplement your Social Security and/or a partial retirement income (now or in the future), if you feel that your portfolio is more of a Hodge Podge of Investments versus a Coordinated Strategy, or if you don’t own long term care insurance, then one or both of our upcoming seminars may be for you.

Please be our guest at one of our next Free Dinner Seminars:

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Date/Time: Tuesday, October 12, 6:30pm or Wednesday, October 13, 6:30pm

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Call 888-582-4582 or register on the web at www.planforlifenow.com to reserve your seats today!

216 Main Street, Suite 300 Gaithersburg, MD 20878 8200 Greensboro Drive, Suite 900 McLean, VA 22102

Seminar Hotline: 888-582-4582 Web Site: www.planforlifenow.com @ p Email: steve@capitolretirement.com

Capitol Retirement Strategies is an independent financial planning firm. We have absolutely no affiliation with a wire house, bank or insurance company.

Registered Principal, Securities offered through Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., a Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment Advisor Representative, Cambridge Investment Research Advisors, Inc., a Registered Investment Advisor. Cambridge and Capitol Retirement Strategies are not affiliated.

Law & Money

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

Funeral planning From page 15 http://tinyurl.com/25cbmge.

2. Avoid emotional overspending.

Emotions at the time of a death can often drive family members to overspend.

“The peculiarity of this business is that its profitability is dependent necessarily on how much you spend in a vulnerable and grief-stricken time,” Slocum said. “There’s no other transaction like it.”

But it’s important to keep in mind the family budget, wishes of the deceased, and religious and cultural traditions.

The average cost of a full-service funeral can approach $10,000, but that includes a lot of services many families may not feel they need, such as embalming or the costs of a public viewing.

Slocum cringes at such an estimate, saying it can cause consumers to think that’s what should be spent for a “traditional” or “normal” funeral, suggesting anything less would be inadequate.

Other less costly options are available including direct burial or direct cremation.

Direct burial includes a simple container and burial shortly after death. Similarly, direct cremation occurs shortly after death, with the remains placed in an urn or other container.

These services don’t include viewing or visitation, which reduces the single most expensive aspect of a funeral — the casket.

Also, no embalming is necessary, which cuts costs by hundreds of dollars.

This point raises a common misperception that embalming is required by law. It isn’t in most cases, a fact that should be disclosed on the funeral home’s price list.

Puzzled?

See page 62.

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www.homecresthouse.org 14508 Homecrest Rd. Silver Spring, MD 20906 TTY 800-735-2258

In Maryland, D.C. and Virginia, embalming is not generally required unless extended viewing or an open casket is requested.

3. Understand basics about the casket and burial containers.

Costs can range from a few hundred dollars to $5,000 or more. Funeral homes are required to provide a written casket price list before they show clients the caskets. If you don’t see lower-priced options on display, ask to see them.

Often, grave liners or burial vaults also are sold to protect the casket. State laws do not require a vault or liner. Some cemeteries require an outer burial container to prevent a grave from sinking.

Like caskets, funeral directors must show you a price list for grave liners and vaults and must allow you to use one purchased elsewhere.

4. Exercise caution if pre-planning your own funeral.

Planning a funeral and paying in ad-

"%34 6!,5%

vance for services and a cemetery plot is a thoughtful way to help a family through the difficult time of a loved one’s death.

However, many cases have surfaced in recent years in which millions of dollars of prepaid money was stolen by unethical business owners. Caution is advised when considering prepayment.

Slocum, the consumer advocate, recommends planning ahead but keeping the money in a family bank account. It should be set up so it’s payable on death to the family member who will be in charge of arrangements.

It’s important to have a conversation with family members about your wishes, the plans you’ve made, and information about the account set up for payment.

Comparable consumer protections are in place for pre-need customers. Funeral directors must provide a price list and are prohibited from offering only package funerals.

It’s a good idea to discuss any preplan-

ning contract with an attorney or financial planner before signing.

5. Seek help if a funeral or costs were not right.

For consumers who run into problems, there are a few avenues for redress.

If you have a problem with funeral arrangements that cannot be resolved with the funeral director, see the Funeral Consumers Alliance advice on how to file a complaint at: http://tinyurl.com/25b7nek.

The National Funeral Directors Association has a help line at 1-800-228-6332.

What’s more, all states but Colorado and Hawaii have a funeral board or agency that regulates funeral directors. Complaints may be directed to them. State attorneys general have consumer affairs divisions that also can help. Find your state attorney general’s office at http://www.naag.org.

If local assistance isn’t working, a complaint can be filed with the FTC. Visit www.ftc.gov or call 1-877-382-4357.

— AP

-/2%¨

!FFORDABLE ,OCATIONS 3ERVICES

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18

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

Health Fitness &

IS IT ALZHEIMER’S? Learning to distinguish normal forgetfulness from early Alzheimer’s AN UNNERVING CONDITION Peripheral neuropathy has many causes, but there are few cures RECONSIDER BACK SURGERY Exercise helps back pain patients more than expensive surgery BEWARE OF BELLY BULGE Older adults with bigger waistlines are more likely to die earlier

Older adults need higher-dose flu shots

By Lauran Neergaard It’s flu-shot season, and for the first time

health authorities are urging nearly everyone to get vaccinated. There is even a new AP PHOTO/EVAN VUCCI

Joe Garbarino of Bethesda, Md., gets a flu shot from nurse practitioner Susan Brown.

This year, people 65 or older can choose to try a new high-dose version of the vaccine.

high-dose version for people 65 or older.

What a difference a year makes: Crowds lined up for hours for scarce shots during last fall’s swine flu pandemic, when infections peaked well before enough vaccine could be produced. This year, a record vaccine supply is expected — an all-in-one inoculation that now promises protection against that swine flu strain plus two other kinds of influenza.

And there’s no need to check if you’re on a high-risk list: A yearly dose is recommended for virtually everyone except babies younger than 6 months — the shot isn’t approved for tots that young — and people with severe allergies to the eggs used to brew it.

But without last year’s scare factor, the question is how many people will heed the new policy for near-universal vaccination.

“Influenza is serious, and anyone, including healthy people, can get the flu and spread the flu,” said Dr. Anne Schuchat of

the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Flu vaccines are the best way to protect yourself and those around you.”

The CDC was moving toward that policy even before last year’s pandemic brought home an inescapable fact: The flu virus doesn’t just kill grandparents and babies and people with weak lungs or hearts, although they’re particularly vulnerable. It also can kill healthy pregnant women and 30-somethings.

Here are some questions and answers about flu: Q: Why is there a new high-dose version for seniors?

A: Your immune system weakens with age, so it doesn’t respond as actively to a flu shot. Sanofi Pasteur’s Fluzone HighDose quadruples the standard dose for people 65 and older. This winter, scientists will track if that translates into less illness.

See FLU SHOTS, page 19

Medicare drug plans to change, cost more

By Ricardo Alonso-Zaldivar Millions of seniors face double-digit hikes in their Medicare prescription premiums next year unless they shop for cheaper coverage, a new analysis of government data finds.

Premiums will go up an average of 10 percent among the top 10 drug plans that have signed up about 70 percent of seniors, according to an analysis of Medicare data by Avalere Health, a private research firm.

In part, the higher prices are to help pay for a new benefit mandated by healthcare reform: a 50 percent discount on brandname drugs for those who land in the program’s coverage gap, the dreaded “doughnut hole.”

An individual reaches the hole after their first $2,830 in prescription drugs is purchased (for which plans pay 75 percent, after a deductible is met). While in the hole, beneficiaries pay the full cost of drugs until they have spent a total of $4,550 out of pocket for the year. At that point, near-full coverage kicks in.

The donut hole will be gradually phased out entirely by 2020, under the new health-

care law. Seniors don’t have to take any action to qualify for the 50 percent discount.

Big changes to many plans Marketing for next year’s drug plans started Oct. 1, and seniors will see some of the biggest changes since the Medicare prescription benefit became available in 2006.

More than 17 million are enrolled in private drug plans offered through Medicare.

“People are just going to have to get on top of this and shop around,” said Dan Mendelson, president of Avalere, which does research for industry and government. “Beneficiaries are really going to have to reassess their plans for next year.”

In Maryland and the District of Columbia, Medicare recipients have 45 plans to choose from, with monthly premiums ranging from $11.60 to $120.20. In Virginia, there are 44 plans available, ranging from $16.30 to $97.90 a month.

Changes decreed by Medicare to force insurers to winnow down duplicative plans could cause some head-scratching and confusion.

More than 3 million seniors will see their plans discontinued, according to

Plans with the biggest increases

— will be for the First Health Part D Premier Plus plan, offered by Coventry Healthcare. Average monthly premiums will rise from under $64 to nearly $91.

Margaret Nowak, who worked on the study for Avalere, said the jump is due partly to Medicare’s restructuring and partly to the plan offering better coverage in the doughnut hole, including some brand-name drugs. Only about one-third of plans will offer coverage in the gap next year, mainly for generics.

A spokesman for Coventry did not respond to a request for comment.

Another popular option that will see a significant increase is the Humana Enhanced plan, which offers some coverage in the gap. Premiums will rise by about 8 percent on average, to nearly $45.

“We tried to keep consumers’ premiums as close as possible to last year’s,” said Humana spokesman Tom Noland.

Seven of the top 10 national plans will charge higher premiums next year, the study found.

Medicare officials did not dispute

The study found the biggest percentage increase in premiums — nearly 43 percent

See MEDICARE, page 19

Avalere. Medicare says all but 300,000 will be seamlessly switched to another plan offered by the same insurer, but the Avalere data suggest it may not be that simple.

Medicare “is really reshaping the market,” said Mendelson. “There are a lot of plans that are shutting down.”

Among them is the second-largest, the AARP MedicareRx Saver plan, with more than 1.5 million members nationally. It’s being discontinued in 2011, according to Medicare data analyzed by Avalere.

Seniors in the AARP Saver plan are expected to be switched to AARP MedicareRx Preferred, the leading national plan with nearly 2.8 million members. Both are offered by UnitedHealthcare.

The switch will raise premiums by about $4/month on average for seniors in the Saver plan if they decide to stay in the Preferred plan next year. Meanwhile, seniors who are already in the AARP Preferred plan and decide to stay will see their premiums fall on average by about $4/month.

Fitness & Health

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

Flu shots From page 18 Until that proof’s in, the CDC says it’s OK to choose either option.

Sanofi is finalizing how much to make, and availability may vary with location. For example, Dr. Marvin Bittner of the Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Omaha estimates the new shot might benefit one in four seniors and said his center has ordered enough for that population, while other VA clinics aren’t ordering as much.

Q: I got vaccinated against both seasonal and that so-called H1N1 flu last year, so why do I need a vaccine this year?

A: It protects against a different strain of the H3N2 influenza family that has cropped up, as well as last year’s swine flu, part of the H1N1 family, and a Type B strain. Every year a different flu vaccine is brewed to match the constantly changing flu strains that circle the globe.

Q: Will I need just one shot?

A: Most people will, but any children under 9 getting their first-ever flu vaccine will need two, a month apart, to prime their immune systems.

Q: Will there be enough vaccine?

A: Manufacturers project 170 million doses. Obviously that won’t cover the entire population, but the CDC knows its near-universal vaccination policy won’t spark a stampede for shots. Before last

Medicare From page 18 Avalere’s numbers, but they said they calculate changes in premiums differently.

Timothy Hill, deputy director of the division that oversees the drug plans, said that among other things, Medicare makes an assumption that seniors facing a premium

year, flu vaccine was recommended for 85 percent of Americans but only about a third got vaccinated.

Last year nearly all 114 million doses of seasonal vaccine were used, but as the swine flu outbreak slowed, just 90 million doses of the special vaccine were used out of nearly 162 million eventually produced for the general public.

Q: Who’s at high risk from flu?

A: Young children, anyone 50 or older, anyone with chronic medical conditions such as asthma or heart disease, pregnant women. Also, health workers and caregivers of infants can infect the vulnerable unless vaccinated.

Q: Who can use the nasal spray vaccine?

A: FluMist is for healthy people 2 to 49, no pregnancy or underlying health conditions.

Q: When should vaccination start?

A: Chain pharmacies already have started vaccinating; protection will last all winter. It takes about two weeks to kick in, and flu typically starts circulating around November.

Q: How do I know it’s safe?

A: Unprecedented safety monitoring last year turned up no rare side effects from the special swine flu-only vaccine sold in the United States.

Abroad, a few reports of narcolepsy after a European swine flu vaccine are being probed; that vaccine didn’t sell here.

increase will switch to a lower-cost plan that covers their drugs.

Medicare estimates that premiums will go up by $1 on average next year, or 3 percent.

“We believe our analysis stands,” said Hill. “Beneficiaries are going to see a modest change to their premiums, and their benefits are going to be better.”

— AP

Mom always said that smiling is good for you.

Thanks to Renaissance Gardens, we both have a reason to smile.

We’re Renaissance Gardens, the extended care neighborhood at Greenspring in Springfield, VA and Riderwood in Silver Spring, MD. Here, Mom gets the compassionate care she deserves—all in a community that’s as warm, vivacious and as full of life as she is.

Remember, your loved one doesn’t have to be a current resident of Greenspring or Riderwood to live here.

An Australian seasonal vaccine dosed for young children won’t be sold here after being linked to some fever-related seizures in that country.

Q: Why should I bother since fewer people than usual died last year?

A: Last year’s U.S. toll: about 12,000

19

deaths, 60 million illnesses and 265,000 hospitalizations. New CDC statistics last month suggest flu strain mortality varies widely, from 3,000 in an exceptionally mild year to 49,000 in a recent really bad one — and it’s impossible to predict how bad each year will be.

— AP

Free Hearing Tests set for

Greater Washington Area Age 55+ Free electronic hearing tests will be given from Monday, October 18 through Friday, October 22 at select locations in Maryland and Northern Virginia.

Tests have been arranged for anyone who suspects they are losing their hearing. Such persons generally say they can hear but cannot understand words. Testing with the latest computerized equipment will indicate if you can be helped.

Everyone, especially adults over 55, should have an electronic hearing test at least once a year. If there is a hearing problem, hearing tests may reveal that newly developed methods of correction will help, even for those who have been told in the past that a hearing aid would not help them.

If you suspect you have hearing loss, call for a free hearing test appointment. Our licensed specialists are trained in the latest auditory testing methods and will be the first ones to tell you if you don’t need a hearing aid. If you do have a hearing loss, we will explain your results and provide you with a list of options.

Free hearing tests available only at a location listed below.

One week only: Monday, October 18 – Friday, October 22.

Beltone Hearing Aid Centers Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Evenings and Saturday by appointment

Call today for your free Information Kit. Bethesda, MD

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20

Fitness & Health

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

Is it normal forgetfulness or Alzheimer’s?

By Lauran Neergaard Doctors cannot tell if Leif Utoft Bollesen’s mild memory loss will simply remain an annoyance or worsen into Alzheimer’s disease, but experimental checks of the man’s aging brain may offer clues.

About 1 million Americans a year begin a mental slide called mild cognitive impairment, or MCI, with forgetfulness that is somewhere between healthy aging and Alzheimer’s.

Now this gray zone is undergoing an evolution, with growing study of techniques to help predict which MCI patients may be on a path to later dementia — and who shouldn’t worry.

Many doctors are not waiting. A study published in the journal Neurology found 70 percent of neurologists say they prescribe Alzheimer’s medications to at least some of their MCI patients, hoping the drugs will slow their decline. That’s a startling number considering there’s no proof

yet the drugs can do that, even if doctors knew who’s most at risk.

Still, it is becoming clearer that Alzheimer’s starts ravaging the brain at least a decade before memory problems appear. Thus stalling it may require treating the earliest symptoms, just as preventing a stroke begins with treating high blood pressure.

But to discover an early-stage therapy requires first discovering whose MCI really is pre-Alzheimer’s.

So when the National Institute on Aging and the nonprofit Alzheimer’s Association proposed new guidelines for diagnosing both full-blown Alzheimer’s dementia and that confusing MCI, they went an extra step. The draft also offers a roadmap for researchers testing new technology to help separate out the different types of MCI.

Can brain scans diagnose?

On the list: experimental PET scans that

check for abnormal brain buildup of an Alzheimer’s-linked gunk called beta-amyloid. Bollesen, 78, is getting that and other brain scans at the Mayo Clinic in a large study hunting for patterns that predict progression.

The retired teacher gets embarrassed by his main MCI symptom — forgetting the names of longtime colleagues — but said he doesn’t worry about getting worse.

“I’ll think about it when they bring it up,” said Bollesen, of Rochester, Minnesota. If he does worsen, he figures the researchers “may have ideas of things I could be doing to delay it.”

Here is the rub: Those technologies are becoming more available for use outside of strict research studies. Already, doctors at specialized medical centers can use MRIs to measure shrinkage of a brain region called the hippocampus. They can give spinal taps to look for that gooey amyloid in cerebrospinal fluid.

Soon, even the full-brain amyloid scans will be more available, said Dr. David Bennett, director of Rush University Medical Center’s Alzheimer’s program in Chicago.

Patients “want to know what’s going to happen to them,” said Bennett, who tries to redirect patients already demanding those tests, or anti-Alzheimer’s medications, into clinical trials.

Scientists have not proven when a bad test result really means brewing disease, or even if you can believe a bad test result.

Those spinal fluid measurements, for example, can vary as much as 30 percent from one sophisticated laboratory to another, said Dr. Marilyn Albert of Johns Hopkins University.

“The last thing in the world you want to do is tell someone they’re destined to have Alzheimer’s dementia when they’re not,” cautioned Albert, who co-authored the See FORGETFULNESS, page 22

BEACON BITS

Ongoing 3114 Georgia Ave. NW • Washington, D.C.

202-291-1611 • 202-291-1610 Focusing on Partial & Complete Dentures

Accepting DC Medicaid

Visit the new senior resource area, called “Aging to Perfection,” at the Arlington Central Library. Stop by and pick up a variety of materials, including the Beacon, Arlington’s “55+ Guide,” transportation information and more. The library is located 1015 N. Quincy St., Arlington, Va., and the area is located near the new 10th Street entrance. Note that the address was incorrect in the August issue of the Beacon. For more information, call (703) 228-5990.

Walk-In & Emergency • Appointments are Available

New Patient Special Exam & Cleaning $ (A $175 Value)

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For Customers 50+

Please join us for our 3rd Annual Harvest Ball Saturday, October 9, 2010 6:30pm • RSVP 703-531-0781

J o i n t h e E x c i t e m e n t ! L i v eE legantly!

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NEW RESOURCES AT ARLINGTON LIBRARY

Ongoing

SUPPORT GROUP FOR THE RECENTLY WIDOWED

The AARP Widowed Persons Service offers free weekly support groups for persons widowed less than two years. On Thursdays, from 2 to 4 p.m. a group meets at Jane Lawton Community Center, 4301 Willow Ln., Bethesda, Md. To register or to learn more, call (301) 949-7398.

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It’s not all up to you.

Call us.

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

Montgomery County Aging and Disability Services

Fitness & Health

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

HOLY CROSS HEALTH Helping you stay active and well.

Knee Surgery Gets Carol Fogel Moving Again specially trained, multidisciplinary staff of physicians, nurses and therapists.

Carol Fogel of Silver Spring has lots of energy and a positive spirit. “I’m never sedentary,” says the 74-year-old. “I like running around.” But several years ago, a slip off her deck injured her knee and put a crimp in her lifestyle.

“For years I simply tolerated the pain and got shots for instant relief,” Carol explains. “After years of trying different treatment options – including medication, physical therapy and injections – my doctor suggested I consider surgery.”

Total knee replacement surgery helps to restore function and relieve pain by substituting long-lasting synthetic parts for virtually every component of the knee joint.

Physicians at Holy Cross Hospital perform thousands of orthopedic procedures each

Following several months of recovery, Carol, like most joint replacement patients, has found it’s easier and less painful to move around than it was before surgery.

Silver Spring’s Carol Fogel is living life to the fullest after knee replacement surgery.

year, including hundreds of joint replacement surgeries.

Before surgery, we offer a free two-hour educational class so that joint replacement patients know what to expect every step of the way. Our Joint Center features a

Request your free "Make Your Move" kit to step away from joint, spine or neck pain.

It includes a pain diary to help you prepare for a conversation with your doctor and information about treatment options.

Plus, a stretchy exercise band.

Call 301-754-8800 or visit www.holycrosshealth.org.

EVENTS AND CLASSES FOR HEALTH AND WELLNESS Holy Cross Hospital Senior Source offers physical activity, education and information for health and wellness.

All classes are held at the Holy Cross Hospital Senior Source, located at 8580 Second Avenue in Silver Spring.

To register or for more information, call 301-754-8800 or visit www.holycrosshealth.org.

FLU SHOT AND IMMUNIZATION CLINIC Saturday, Oct. 23 9 a.m. to noon Free with Medicare card; without Medicare card: $10 for flu vaccine (if available), $20 for pneumonia vaccine. Vaccinations are available by appointment only. Please be prepared to provide your Medicare number at registration.

FOOD FOR LIFE NUTRITION AND COOKING CLASSES Tuesdays; Oct. 26-Nov. 16 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Presenter: The Cancer Project Class 1: Introduction to How Foods Fight Cancer Class 2: Fueling up on Low-Fat, High Fiber Foods Class 3: Discovering Dairy and Meat Alternatives Class 4: Cancer-Fighting Compounds and Healthy Weight Control $40 for series, $12 for single class Includes a discussion on maintaining a healthy weight and also will cover a variety of cancer-related nutrition topics demonstrating how to prepare delicious, yet simple and healthy meals.

MEMORY ACADEMY Holy Cross Hospital Senior Source, 8580 Second Ave., Silver Spring Thursdays, Oct. 14-Nov. 11 10 a.m. to noon Holy Cross Hospital Resource Center, 9805 Dameron Drive, Silver Spring Mondays, Oct. 18-Nov. 15 10 a.m. to noon Teaches practical techniques for enhancing memory ability. It is designed for people with age-related memory concerns and is not intended for people with Alzheimer’s disease.

HEART SUCCESS: A WORKSHOP FOR HEART FAILURE PREVENTION AND RECOVERY Wednesdays, Oct. 20, Dec. 8 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Learn about the early signs and symptoms of heart failure, hearthealthy nutrition, and medication and weight management.

Have your medication reviewed and your blood pressure checked.

Enjoy a heart-healthy lunch with a cooking demonstration.

To register for an upcoming class, for a physician referral or for more information, call 301-754-8800.

1500 Forest Glen Road, Silver Spring, MD 20910 - 301-754-7000 - holycrosshealth.org

21

22

Fitness & Health

Forgetfulness From page 20 draft guidelines and doesn’t want doctors jumping the gun.

Reducing the fear Just harboring amyloid alone does not mean pending dementia, as autopsy studies suggest a quarter of elderly people who die without memory problems may harbor the buildup, added Mayo’s Dr. Ron Petersen, who first helped define MCI. “Would I like to have amyloid in the brain? No, not particularly. But it doesn’t necessarily mean I’m going to become clinically demented in my lifetime,” Petersen said.

For now, diagnosing MCI requires a good medical history and standard memory tests. MCI is more than every so often

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

losing your car keys or struggling for a word, but not serious enough to interfere with independent functioning.

Worsening of episodic memory — recalling new information — is seen more than other types of memory loss in MCI that progresses to Alzheimer’s, say the draft guidelines, which will be finalized later this year.

Like so many with MCI, forgetting names sent Mac McNellis of Chicago to the doctor nine years ago. He feared the dementia his mother had suffered in her 90s, but he was relieved to learn he had MCI. McNellis enrolled in a study at Rush that scans his brain annually, and researchers advised mental and physical exercise. Now 85, he plays golf and cards, and is a pro at Sudoku and intricate woodworking.

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Then last year, he experienced a new MCI symptom — getting frustrated in unfamiliar places — and began an Alzheimer’s drug in hopes of slowing further decline. “I just go with the flow,” McNellis said.

But his wife, Gerry, said learning about MCI early was a big help. “Staying active was probably the most important thing,” she said.

“Fear of the unknown I think can really

be detrimental. If you have an idea that there are some things that can be done within your own power, it’s really helpful.”

For more information on the Alzheimer’s Association study, go to www.alz.org/research/clinical_trials/find_clinical_trials_t rialmatch.asp.

The draft guidelines can be found at www.alz.org/research/diagnostic_criteria.

— AP

BEACON BITS

Oct. 26

COPING WITH ALZHEIMER’S

Effective planning for and knowledge of Alzheimer’s disease can help a family to maintain a positive quality of life. This free seminar on Tuesday, Oct. 26, from 1 to 3 p.m., is sponsored by the Fairfax Caregiver Seminar Consortium at the Alzheimer’s Family Day Center, 2812 Old Lee Hwy., Fairfax, Va. Limited respite care is available; call (703) 204-4664.

Oct. 15+

CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUP

Connecting with other caregivers can foster hope and provide guidance in dealing with the issues faced every day by caregivers. Attend this free support group, sponsored by Capital Hospice, on Friday, Oct. 15 at 10 a.m., with subsequent sessions held on the third Friday of each month at Lee Senior Center, 5722 Lee Hwy., Arlington, Va. For additional information or directions, call (703) 228-0555.

Oct. 7+

GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP

Anyone mourning the death of a loved one can join a support group led by Montgomery Hospice professional counselors on Thursday, Oct. 7 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. The six-week group will meet at Woodside United Methodist Church, 8900 Georgia Ave., Silver Spring, Md. Registration required. Call (301) 921-4400.

Oct. 18+

FREE WELLNESS CLINIC

On Monday, Oct. 18, Barbara Holland, LPN, from the Medical Team Inc., will administer free blood pressure and glucose tests at Culpepper Garden, 4435 N. Pershing Dr., Arlington, Va. Patients are asked to fast for two hours prior to blood sugar testing. The clinics are held on the third Monday of the month from 10 a.m. to noon. No appointments are needed. Call (703) 228-6300 with any questions.

Fitness & Health

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

23

Can reading doctors’ notes improve care?

By Lauran Neergaard Don’t be offended if your doctor writes that you’re SOB, or that an exam detected BS. The aim is to help, not insult: A project is beginning to test if patients fare better when given fast electronic access to more of their medical chart — the detailed notes that doctors record about you during and after every visit.

You just might have to look up some of the technical jargon, like those abbreviations above for “shortness of breath” and “bowel sounds.”

Didn’t know about those notes? Researchers involved in the “OpenNotes” project say they are surprised at how many

patients don’t.

“You really have to be a partner with your doctor to do well,” said Dr. Tom Delbanco of Harvard and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, who heads the study and thinks better use of those notes will help.

“It’s your body. It’s your record. It’s your illness. You should have ready access to everything about it.”

Inside information Yes, your clinic may have an electronic records system that lets you log in to make an appointment, check your cholesterol test or review your medications.

But Delbanco and nursing colleague Jan

BEACON BITS

Oct. 29

Walker have found few include those doctor notes that provide details about a patient’s health.

They can stretch to two or three pages, as doctors mull alternate diagnoses they may not have mentioned, like a test ordered to rule out cancer.

Or doctors may jot reminders about personal issues that could complicate care — maybe the patient ignores medical advice, or is in denial, or has financial difficulties.

Doctors may detail problems in more blunt terms than they’d use face-to-face.

Hence easier access is debated. Say the doctor carefully avoids the “O” word while urging you to lose 20 pounds, only to write that “Joe is obese.” Will you get mad, or be

more likely to follow the advice?

To find out, three large health centers — Beth Israel, the Geisinger Health System in Pennsylvania, and Seattle’s Harborview Medical Center — are enrolling 115 doctors and up to 25,000 patients in the OpenNotes study.

For a year, participants will get an e-mail after each office visit saying their doctor’s note is available through a secure online portal. Researchers will track if patients read it and find errors, and how they use it.

Doctors’ habits are being tracked, too — if they censor themselves or write more patient-friendly notes.

See DOCTORS’ NOTES, page 25

Podiatry House Calls

HONORING CAREGIVERS The Fairfax Family Caregiver Support program will host the 8th

annual “Give Care, Take Care” luncheon and resource fair at the Springfield Golf and Country Club, 8301 Old Keene Mill Rd., Springfield, Va. The event is held in recognition of National Family Caregivers’ Month to celebrate the contributions of caregivers and raise awareness about programs available to support them. Cost is $10. To register online, visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/DFS/OlderAdultServices

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and look for Events or call (703) 324-7156, TTY 711.

If no answer, please leave a message.

Oct. 22

VACCINES 101 Learn all the ways in which immunizations can protect us from disease and find out which are recommended by the CDC for trav-

el out of the country. Pam Prindle, RN, of Foxhall Internists, will present “Stuck with Shots” at Virginia Hospital Center, 601 S. Carlin Springs Rd., Arlington, Va. on Friday, Oct. 22 at 11 a.m. Call (703) 558-6859 to reserve a spot at this free lecture.

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Fitness & Health

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

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Now, Bravo Health is pleased to introduce Bravo Achieve (HMO) — a plan designed to provide specialized benefits and help individuals with diabetes lower their risks of serious health complications.

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Fitness & Health

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

Doctors’ notes From page 23 It’s not just for the Web-savvy and welloff. Among the Seattle participants are homeless patients who can log in at such places as the public library.

Harborview’s Dr. Joann Elmore sees the potential value: She has a patient who emails health questions from remote Alaskan fishing camps where he travels seasonally to find work.

But she also wonders if patients with low literacy, especially, can use the notes.

After all, they’re intended mostly to jog the doctor’s memory, communicate with other

physicians and justify insurance billing.

Indeed, in the Annals of Internal Medicine, Delbanco and Walker describe doctors’ fears of time lost editing their words or calming patients upset at reading of, say, an inconsequential heartbeat irregularity. Meanwhile, patients say they want the information but wonder if they’ll misinterpret something.

Hurdles to obtaining records By federal law, you can get a copy of everything in your medical chart, visit notes included, by filing a formal request.

But it can be difficult.

Clinics may take two or three weeks to

BEACON BITS

Ongoing

MALL WALKING AT BALLSTON Every Tuesday and Thursday from 8 to 9 a.m. you can walk in a

safe and friendly environment at Ballston Mall. Staff from the Virginia Hospital Center will be on hand to lead the group in stretch and cool down exercises. The mall is at 4238 Wilson Blvd., Arlington, Va. Sign in for this free program at the mall’s lower level. For additional information, call (703) 558-6859.

Oct, 23

respond, and Delbanco said copying fees can run as high as 75 cents a page. Seattle’s Elmore saw a woman who’d succeeded in getting records from just one of four care sites; her office intervened to help get the rest.

Given the hurdles, patients rarely seek copies of their medical records unless they’re facing a big illness, said Stephen Downs of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, which is funding the $1.4 million OpenNotes study.

With growing use of electronic records making easier access possible, the question becomes whether doctors will write easier-to-understand notes to help engage patients in their care, he said.

“The way I view my relationship with the doctor is, I’m the CEO of me and he works for me,” said Ed Leonard, an engineer in Acton, Mass. He’d never seen a

doctor’s note until a recent visit to Delbanco, but he welcomed the change.

Another patient stopped an error by telling a doctor that her note didn’t mention the tests she’d promised to order, Walker said.

And in New Hampshire, where the Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center provides routine electronic access to doctor’s notes, Dr. Mary Merkel inadvertently shamed a diabetic into better health.

Three months after she wrote that he was “noncompliant,” he returned 30 pounds lighter, saying he’d felt bad at her disappointment in him.

“I don’t want to hurt my patients’ feelings,” said Merkel, admitting she’d had a hard time telling the man how badly he was doing. “Who knew this could be such a powerful tool?”

— AP

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23 VINTAGE VALUABLES

Declutter your home and donate your castoffs to the Schweinhaut Senior Center’s Vintage Valuables, Goodies and Antique sale on Saturday, Oct. 23 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Vendor tables are also available for $20 to sell items. The Schweinhaut Center is located at 1000 Forest Glen Rd., Silver Spring, Md. For more information, call (240) 777-8085.

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Fitness & Health

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

Health Studies Page

THE PLACE TO LOOK FOR INFORMATION ON AREA CLINICAL TRIALS

Study seeks way to stop nerve damage

By Barbara Ruben Ongoing high blood sugar levels in many diabetics can lead to nerve damage, called diabetic neuropathy. The problem usually starts with gradual loss of feeling in the toes and then moves up the legs.

This loss of sensation means that people with diabetic neuropathy are at risk of injuring their feet and legs without being aware of it. Unnoticed injuries that remain untreated can eventually lead to ulcers or skin lesions, which can become infected and, in some cases, can result in disability or amputation of the limb.

As the nerves are damaged, some diabetics may experience tingling, shooting pains or tenderness in their feet and legs, in addition to numbness.

The TARGET Study (Trials Assessing Ranirestat: Global Evaluation of Treatment) is looking at a new drug that might help slow or stop this nerve damage.

The two-year international study, which will involve 750 people with diabetes, is being conducted locally at MedStar Diabetes Institute at the Washington Hospital Center.

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If you are 65 years or older and have trouble STAYING ASLEEP you may qualify to participate in a research study of an investigational drug.

Compensation will be provided for time and travel.

Call 301-654-5665

The Center for Sleep & Wake Disorders Chevy Chase, Maryland

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Taking part in the study

Scientists have discovered that a chemical called sorbitol could have a role in the development of diabetic neuropathy. Sorbitol is produced when the enzyme aldose reductase breaks down glucose in the blood. High levels of sorbitol can be damaging to nerves.

Diabetics, who have higher long-term glucose levels, have higher sorbitol levels.

The investigational drug, ranirestat, works by blocking the action of the enzyme. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is a new class of drugs,â&#x20AC;? said Kasey DeVine, a registered nurse and clinical research coordinator at Washington Hospital Center. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nothing out there like it.â&#x20AC;?

To participate in the study, participants must be between 18 and 75 years old and have been diagnosed with insulin-dependent type 1 diabetes or non-insulin dependent type 2 diabetes for at least a year. Participants must be experiencing some symptoms of diabetic neuropathy.

Glucose levels must be well controlled for at least three months.

Patients may not be able to participate if they have a history of diabetic foot ulcers, have had a lower limb amputated, or have other long-term health problems, such as heart disease or cancer.

Those interested in enrolling in the study will visit Med Star for an assessment of their general health and neuropathy.

The appointment includes a medical history, physical exam, a blood test and painless nerve tests.

Once enrolled in the study, patients will receive one of three types of pills for daily use: 40 mg. dose of ranirestat, 80 mg. dose of ranirestat, or a placebo (an inactive pill).

Patients will be assigned randomly which pill they will take. Neither they nor the researchers will know until the study is over who has been assigned to which group.

No matter which medication is assigned, participants will take two tablets each morning for two years. Treatment will be carefully monitored, and participants will return to MedStar every month for the first three months. As long as there are no problems, patients will then return once every three months.

Study visits will vary from 30 minutes to four hours. Participants are paid $30 for each visit, and study medication is provided free of charge.

For further information, or to volunteer to participate, call Kasey DeVine at (202) 877-9163 or Keyoana White at (202) 8770063.

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Qualified participants will receive study medication and study-related medical care at no cost. Compensation for time and travel may also be available for those who qualify.

Learn more by calling Burke Internal Medicine & Research.

Dr. Nashwa Gabra, MD.

CALL: 703-455-9711 Or visit: www.GoutAndHeartStudy.com

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Fitness & Health

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

27

Early treatment can help nerve condition

Neuropathy’s nerve pain feels very different from musculo-skeletal pain, and affects people differently. It can feel like electrical shocks, burning, walking on glass, crawling ants, or extreme sensitivity to touch.

And because nerve or “neuropathic” pain is so different, it does not respond to the medical treatments we typically think of for muscle and body pain.

Neuropathy’s progression and symptoms can be unpredictable. It can come and go, slowly progressing over years, or quickly become severe and debilitating.

Because the symptoms often appear to be something else or may occur at the same time as another illness, neuropathy is sometimes misdiagnosed.

Some neuropathies can be cured, but most cannot. However, if diagnosed early, it can often be managed and the symptoms controlled. Unfortunately, too often neuropathy is discovered only after causing irreparable nerve damage.

Neuropathy is very common and found around the globe. It does not discriminate:

Many kinds of neuropathy There are more than 100 types of peripheral neuropathy, each with its own set of symptoms, development pattern and prognosis, depending on how the damage occurred and the type of peripheral nerves damaged.

There are three types of peripheral nerves: sensory nerves that help with sensing, “autonomic” nerves that help with our automatic or involuntary functions such as blood pressure, digestion and sweating, and motor nerves that assist with movement and muscle control.

The potential impact on your physical function and/or the types of symptoms you may have will depend on the type of nerves affected.

Most neuropathies affect all three types of nerves, but some affect only one or two.

Neurologists — particularly those specializing in neuromuscular diseases — have tests to identify the nerves impacted to determine which type of neuropathy you have. When multiple nerve types are involved, a diagnosis may require additional testing.

The type of neuropathy determines the best treatment course. Until cures are found, current treatments primarily address either symptom relief or restoring function.

For diabetics, the drugs pregabalin and duloxetine HCI can be prescribed.

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A different kind of pain

It affects all ages, genders and races. It does, however, tend to appear more frequently in older adults.

For seniors, it can contribute to falls and accidents; for diabetics, it can lead to amputations. In fact, diabetic peripheral neuropathy represents a third of all neuropathies.

Another third of neuropathies are called “idiopathic,” which means of an unknown cause. The remaining third arises from causes such as autoimmune disorders, tumors, heredity, nutritional imbalances, trauma, infections, shingles, HIV/AIDS, Lyme disease and toxins (including chemical exposures, some medications, and some chemotherapies).

Check off the health studies you’d like to receive FREE information about. ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏

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Return to: The Beacon, P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915 or fax to (301) 949-8966

THE NEXT GENERATION IN ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE THERAPY

H E A L T H S T U D Y I N F O • H E A LT H S T U D Y I N F O

One of the most common chronic diseases in the United States today — affecting more than 20 million Americans (or 1 in 15) — is peripheral neuropathy.

Haven’t heard of it? Despite its wide scope, this disease is only beginning to get the attention it deserves.

Our bodies have two nervous systems: the central nervous system, consisting of the brain and spinal column, and the peripheral nervous system — all of the other nerves in your body. Peripheral neuropathy results when there is damage or injury to peripheral nerves — the motor, sensory and autonomic nerves connecting the spinal cord to muscles, skin and internal organs.

Because peripheral neuropathy affects the peripheral or “outer” parts of the body, early warning signs tend to appear in the hands and feet, causing weakness, numbness (feels like wearing gloves or socks), tingling, burning and constant pain.

• H EALTH STU DY I N FO • H EALTH STU DY I N FO • H EALTH STU DY I N FO •

By Tina Tockarshewsky

Georgetown University is recruiting participants for an ADCS-sponsored research study to help stop the progression of mild to moderate Alzheimer’s Disease.

The purpose of this research study is to assess the safety, effectiveness and tolerability of a new experimental gene transfer drug called CERE-110 in patients with mild to moderate AD. This is a double-blind, placebo-controlled study to be conducted at 10 clinical research centers and will last about 24 months. CERE-110 is administered only once by direct surgical insertion into the area of the brain that is damaged or at risk of being damaged by AD. Clinical laboratory tests and imaging exams will be conducted.

For more information, please contact:

Kelly Behan (202) 687-0413 keb53@georgetown.edu

28

Fitness & Health

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

Exercise better than surgery for back pain

By Lauran Neergaard “Why did they cut you?” The shocking question came from a respected spine surgeon tracked down by Keith Swenson, who was still in severe pain after an earlier back operation.

He didn’t know what to believe. Two other surgeons had urged more operations, different ones.

And Swenson, who’s from Howard Lake, Minn., is far from alone. Even though only a fraction of people with back pain are good candidates for surgery, complicated spine operations are on the rise.

So is the hunt for any relief.

By one recent estimate, Americans are spending a staggering $86 billion a year in care for aching backs — from MRIs to pain

pills to nerve blocks to acupuncture. That research found little evidence that the population got better as the bill soared over the past decade.

“The way medicine is so Star-Treky these days, [patients] believe something can be done,” said Dr. Charles Rosen, a spine surgeon at the University of California, Irvine.

The reality is that time often is the best antidote. Most people will experience back pain at some point, but up to 90 percent will heal on their own within weeks.

In fact, for run-of-the-mill cases, doctors aren’t even supposed to do an X-ray or MRI unless the pain lingers for a month to six weeks.

Yet a study last year found nearly one in three aching Medicare patients get some

kind of back scan within that first month.

Diagnosis and treatment are tricky Why is that a problem? Those scans can be misleading.

By middle age, most people who don’t even have pain nonetheless have degeneration of their disks — those doughnutlooking shock absorbers between vertebrae. So in someone who does have pain, pinpointing that a particular black spot or bulge on a scan is the true cause is tricky.

The bigger problem: When the misery lingers, there’s no one-size-fits-most treatment.

“There are a lot of procedures going on for patients in whom we don’t have good scientific evidence that it’s going to help,” said Dr. Richard Deyo of Oregon Health and Science University in Portland, who long has studied how people fare with different options for this tough ailment.

For example, there’s a wide variety of spinal injections that aim to numb back pain, using different drugs and targeting different spots. Which one works depends on what study you read.

When the Institute of Medicine recently listed the 100 how-to-treat questions that

Neuropathy From page 27 Neuropathy can be a multi-faceted disease, so be sure to see a neurologist for a full assessment. The Neuropathy Association, a national nonprofit representing the neuropathy community, provides education, support groups, advocacy, awareness and research programs.

To learn more about the condition, attend the association’s upcoming Neuropa-

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doctors most need answered, back pain neared the top of the list.

Lots of things can cause chronic back pain, from arthritis to bone-thinning osteoporosis, which has its own controversy over whether cementing cracks in the spine really helps.

But those cushiony disks are a big reason.

They naturally thin and shrink with age.

Sometimes they herniate, or rupture, so the gel-like center leaks and pressures a nerve.

Sometimes a vertebra slips out of alignment.

Sometimes the spinal canal painfully narrows, a condition called stenosis.

Who needs surgery?

The right operation can help, but specialists say only about 10 percent of people with lasting pain are candidates.

More than 333,000 of the simpler decompression operations — laminectomies and diskectomies that cut away part of a bone or disk to relieve nerve pressure — were performed in 2007, the latest data compiled by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.

There were nearly 381,000 spinal fuSee BACK PAIN, page 31

thy Summit, taking place Dec. 3 to 5 at the Washington Hilton in Northwest Washington, D.C. There you will learn more about diagnosis, treatments, research advances and tips for managing neuropathy. A registration form can be found on page 29.

For more information on neuropathy and the conference, including a full schedule of speakers and programs, visit www.neuropathy.org or call 212-692-0662.

Tina Tockarshewsky is president and CEO of the Neuropathy Association.

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Fitness & Health

Page 1

29

The Neuropathy Association’s Neuropathy Summit “Probing the Paradoxes of Neuropathic Pain”

December 3-5, 2010

Peripheral neuropathy has reached epidemic proportions, impacting over 20 million Americans. Yet, despite the physical, emotional, and financial toll this chronic, often painful, and potentially debilitating illness takes, neuropathy remains one of the least recognized illnesses in the U.S. today.

Physicians/Scientific Conference:

The Neuropathy Association’s 2010 Neuropathy Summit offers a catalyst to change this dynamic by featuring back-to-back physicians and patients educational conferences. The Summit brings together the neuropathy community—patients, caregivers, physicians and health care professionals, researchers, industry, and policy makers—to advance our understanding of neuropathy and fuel momentum for better patient care and improved access to treatments and cures. Neuropathic pain management will be given special emphasis because “nerve pain” is the primary issue for many neuropathy patients.

December 3-4

Patients Conference: December 4-5

Washington Hilton Hotel

Patients will learn from leading specialists how to better manage their neuropathy. Health care professionals will hear world-renown experts review current knowledge, advances and best practices.

Washington, D.C.

All Summit participants are invited to a special Neuropathy Association 15th Anniversary Dinner on December 4th hosted by Emmy-Award winning journalist Pia Lindström.

For more information, program updates, and to register, visit www.neuropathysummit.org or call 212-692-0662.

Please Print Name (Prefix, First, Middle, Last) _____________________________________________________________________________________ Practice or Institution (if applicable) ___________________________________________________________________________________ Address _____________________________________________________________________________________________________ City/State/Postal Code/Country ______________________________________________________________________________________

Summit Registration Fees Includes Continental Breakfast, Lunch, and Refreshment Breaks daily. One ticket to the 15th Anniversary reception and dinner.

Email _________________________________________________ Fax ___________________________________________________ Primary Phone ___________________________________________ Secondary Phone _________________________________________

Refund/Cancellation Policy Cancellations received in writing no later than November 1, 2010 will be refunded subject to $60 administrative charge.

REGISTRATION TYPE

REGULAR RATE Through November 27

ONSITE RATE December 3-5

Patient Conference: Dec. 4-5 (Does not include Sunday Brunch) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$175 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$200

MAIL-IN REGISTRATION FORM

Special Patient Brunch (Sunday Dec. 5th) #of tickets ______ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$50 each . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$50 each

After November 1, 2010 registration fees are not refundable. Refunds will not be processed until after the Summit.

Please note that your registration is not confirmed until payment is received.

Accompanying Caregiver*: Dec. 4-5 (Does not include Sunday Brunch) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$120 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$120 *If registering an accompanying “Caregiver,” please indicate his/her name __________________________________________________ Physician Conference: Dec. 3-4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$575 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$600 Resident or Fellow: Dec. 3-4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$475 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$525 Federal Employee or Military Personnel: Dec. 3-4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$475 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$525

Hotel Reservations: Special room rates ($199 single/double) are available specifically for Summit attendees at the Washington Hilton from 11/28 - 12/6! But you MUST reserve your room by November 10, 2010.

Contact the Washington Hilton at 1.800.HILTONS (or

Corporate Attendee—Physician Conference: Dec. 3-4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$575 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$600

202.483.3000) and say you are with the Neuropathy

Corporate Attendee—Patient Conference: Dec. 4-5 (Does not include Sunday Brunch) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$175 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$200

Summit, or reserve on-line at www.hilton.com, using the

All Access Pass: Any session, either conference (Does not include Sunday Brunch) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$650 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$700

group code NEU10.

Additional Anniversary Dinner tickets (Saturday Dec. 4th) # of tickets ______ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$200 each . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$200 each TOTAL $___________________ _________________ Do you have Neuropathy?

yes

Do you have any special needs?

no yes

If yes, what type? ______________________________________________________________ no

If so, please explain _________________________________________________________

Have you attended other Neuropathy Educational Events?

yes

no Tell us more! ____________________________________________

PAYMENT Check: Enclosed is my check payable to The Neuropathy Association for $__________________________ (U.S. dollars only).

Credit:

Visa

MasterCard

American Express

Name on card ______________________________________________________

Card #______________________________________ Security code __________ Billing zip code _____________ Expiration date ________ Signature ______________________________________________________

MAILING/CONTACT INFORMATION 2010 Neuropathy Summit C/O Courtesy Associates 2025 M Street, NW Suite 800 Washington, DC 20036 Tel. 202.973.8616 Neuropathy@courtesyassoc.com TERMS AND CONDITIONS. By submitting this form, you agree to the following: I understand and agree that neither the Neuropathy Association nor any co-sponsoring organization or facility, nor their respective chapters, officers, directors, employees, agents, members, or volunteers shall assume or have any responsibility or liability for expenses or medical treatment or for compensation for any injury I may suffer during or resulting from our participation in this program.

30

Fitness & Health

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

Harvard docs on good fats, twitching eyes

By Dr. JoAnn Manson and Dr. CelesteRobb Nicholson Q: I’m confused about omega-3 fats.

Are the different types equally good for you?

A: There are three main types to keep track of: eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and alphalinolenic acid (ALA).

EPA and DHA are found mainly in fish, so they’re sometimes called marine omega3s. ALA is found in plant-based foods, such as flaxseed, walnuts, and canola and soybean oils.

So far, the evidence for EPA and DHA having health benefits is more extensive than for ALA. Studies have shown that

EPA and DHA offer some measure of protection against heart attacks and strokes.

EPA and DHA also have anti-inflammatory effects that may be useful in preventing or treating conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease.

Some well-designed studies of ALA are under way, but right now there just aren’t enough data to be confident about ALA having the same effects as EPA and DHA. And there’s reason for doubting whether it does. The body converts ALA to EPA and then to DHA, but that happens only in small amounts.

If you’re aiming to increase your omega-3 intake to accomplish all the things that omega-3s are thought to do, increasing the

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amount of fish you eat is probably the best way to go.

That said, flaxseed and the other ALA-rich oils may still be a healthful choice, if you are using them to replace trans or saturated fat.

The American Heart Association recommends that adults eat two servings of omega3-rich fish (salmon, for example) per week, which works out to about 400 to 500 milligrams of EPA and DHA per day. People with heart disease are advised to double that, so their daily intake is 1,000 mg. (a full gram).

Taking fish oil capsules is often the most practical way to get that amount of omega3s. If you choose to take fish oil capsules, note that the amount of EPA and DHA provided per capsule is often only about a third of that mentioned on the front of the bottle.

That’s because a full daily dose may require several capsules. Check the Nutrition Facts label on the back for details.

Q. From time to time, my eyelids twitch. What causes this, and is there anything I can do about it?

A. It’s a common — and uncommonly distracting — problem. The twitches are involuntary spasms of the muscles that control the eyelids.

These spasms can cause fluttering in part of the eyelid, or cause the eyelid to repeatedly close and reopen. The spasms last minutes to hours and may continue intermittently for several days.

We don’t know what causes them, but many experts believe that fatigue, stress, eyestrain and caffeine all play some role.

More prolonged and severe twitching —

the kind that causes the eyelid to completely close — may be caused by irritation on the surface of the eye (the cornea) or in tissues lining the eyelids (the conjunctiva).

There are several things you can do to ease the spasms. Close the eye and apply a warm compress — or try pulling gently on the lid. Get more sleep, and reduce your caffeine and alcohol intake.

If the twitching occurs while you’re reading or using a computer, relax your eyes occasionally by focusing on something in the distance.

If your eyes are dry or irritated, use lubricant eyedrops such as Refresh, Systane, Thera Tears or Visine Tears.

Most eyelid twitches are harmless and stop within a week or two. If they don’t, you should see a clinician for an eye exam.

See a clinician even sooner if the twitching completely closes your eye or involves other parts of your face, or if your eyelid is drooping (a sign of weakened muscles) or your eye is red, swollen, or exuding a discharge. These are signs of a possible infection or underlying nerve or muscle condition.

Sometimes even benign eyelid twitches persist, eroding the quality of life. In that case, small injections of botulinum toxin A (Botox) may provide temporary relief. If you decide to try Botox, make sure that the clinician who administers it has expertise in this type of therapy. © 2010 President and fellows of Harvard College. All rights reserved. Distributed by Tribune Media Services, Inc.

D.C. Residents You may be eligible for discounted phone service.

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Attend the InfoExpo

Fitness & Health

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

Back pain

31

about two years, but surgery for a faster fix Always get a second opinion. Rosen, is reasonable in good candidates, he said. who founded the Association for Medical From page 28 • Fusions are appropriate for far fewer Ethics, also recommends asking about a patients, those with fractures, unstable or doctor’s ties to companies that make spinesions — more complex, riskier surgeries slipping spines, curvature of the spine and surgery products. That way you’ll feel asthat bind vertebrae together with a bone rare other reasons, Rosen said. sured that a recommendation to cut doesgraft and sometimes metal hardware.

• Deyo recently studied surgeries for n’t come from a too-cozy relationship.

There is some hopeful news — increasstenosis, that painful narrowing, and found • Not a good candidate? A primary care ing evidence that more people should try decompression surgery as effective and physician can be a neutral adviser in helppushing past the pain in aggressive exerless risky than fusions, which are more ing navigate next steps. Patients with more cise programs. Deyo calls them boot Back pain treatment 101 What’s the best advice?

First, some complicated and costly. challenging back problems may fare better camps for back pain.

• A formal exercise program is especial- at a multidisciplinary spine center with nuThat’s what ended Swenson’s five-year types of back pain are accompanied by red pain odyssey. After a volleyball injury, flags that need immediate attention — ly effective if coupled with cognitive behav- merous specialists — in rehab and pain The Charles Smith Life Communities Because E. ioral Smith Life that Communities Charles E.legs Smith Life Communities Because Smith Life — Communities numb or weak orCharles urinary therapy teaches patientsCharles to man- E.management under one roof. scans showed he hadE.degeneration in such as The brings together five living options on one offers choices for independent and assisted problems. and function with pain, Deyo said. age learn more, seeassisted information from the To seven disks. But one bulged in a way that brings together five living options on one offers choices for independent and But for most • What surgery it was This National Institutes ofa well Health http:// is recovery, more thanas world atclass organization doctors scenic thought Rockville explained the pain radiatThis is campus, each with its own,people: living,campus, rehabilitation and recovery, asfails? wellUsually, Rockville each with its ifown, scenic living, rehabilitation and • Don’t expect an X-ray, MRI or CT until the wrong operation or the wrong candi- It’s tinyurl.com/2u2th26, the Mayo Clinic at ing down both legs. They cut away part of an entireexpertise community that’s evolved It’s an warm personality and specialized culture as long-term care, its leading warm personality and specialized cultureexpertise as long-term care, its leading that spot, but it didn’t help. Neither did a month to six weeks has passed, unless date, said Rosen, who sees one or two pa- http://tinyurl.com/25k5ox and the Associmany decades to surround its resident over m caring, wisdom, Inoffact, across the full of eldercare caring, wisdom, and probexperience. fact,classified extends across theover full spectrum ofEthics eldercare the doctor suspects aextends more serious tientsspectrum aIn week as having “failed ation for Medical at www.ethicalmultipleof pain-blocking options. and experience. with a comprehensive array of specialwith a 100 finally years turned of experience, back to the services.

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The campus even includes full-time, measure in many surgeries.

— AP amenities they need nowservice – the Physicians Neck &Home Back Clinics in a quality-of-care first Hebrew in Washington, DC. on-staff physicians and an internationally first Hebrew Home in organiWashington, DC. on-staff physiciansservices and an and internationally Minneapolis. The clinic’s rehabilitation zations. andinstitute may need in the future. and m recognized research institute dedicated to recognized research dedicated to • Get back to normal activity as quickly program focuses on strengthening mus◆ Personal Care & Hygiene new ways the high Quality ofcaring Life new Through finding ways of taking◆the high caring of prescribed bed of taking cles that support the spine, and published as possible. The daysfinding Meal Preparation standards ever higher.Our Quality over.Life Communities a study showing that onlyBecause three of 38 pa- rest standards ever Care higher.

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Come visit our at the intersection more decompression thanasawell worldsurgerclass organization. ampus, each own, asliving, andis recovery, caregivers are dedicated to campus making life rehabilitation and its recovery, well rehabilitation fromThis nerve-easing rehab.with ◆ Companionship safer more enjoyable for individuals Montrose Roadwww. and East It’s anand entire community that’s evolved Montrose Road and East Jefferson Street in anstressed. entire community that’s sm itJeffe hli and culture as its leading expertise ies, It’s Deyo California’s Rosen saidevolved is medicine, butlong-term it has to becare, -termspecialized care,“Exercise its leading expertise ◆ Medical Reminders needing helpdecades with daily living. three criteria determine chances of sucRockville, tour our residence over many to surround its residents the right exercise,” said Dave Carpenter, ◆ Exercise Assistance Rockville, tour our residences online, or call many decades to surround its residents experience.

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Smith-Ko of takingdisks theheal highoncaring new ways of takingToday, the high caring anew ing gardening business near Minneapolis that ships peonies nationwide. It’s a job that requires tremendous manual labor.

“Do I have flare-ups? Yes. But now that my back is strengthened, instead of flareups lasting one to two months ... the flareups last one to two days,” he said. “This form of treatment is a lifetime change.”

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

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Fitness & Health

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

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Health Shorts Tai chi relieves fibromyalgia Tai chi eased painful joints and other symptoms of fibromyalgia in a small but well-done study of this ancient Chinese form of exercise.

Tai chi combines meditation with slow, gentle movements, deep breathing and relaxation. It can improve muscle strength, balance, sleep, coordination and, some evidence suggests, fibromyalgia.

Symptoms of the illness include fatigue, body pain, and tender points in joints, muscles and other soft tissues. It is most common in middle-aged women. Its cause is unknown, and the lack of obvious signs or definitive tests has led some doctors to question whether it is a physical or psychological problem.

The study led by Dr. Chenchen Wang at Tufts University School of Medicine in Boston involved 66 fibromyalgia patients assigned to try either tai chi or wellness education and stretching exercises twice a week for 12 weeks.

Symptoms improved significantly for the tai chi group and little for the others, as measured by a commonly used questionnaire. Improvements were seen in pain, mood, quality of life, sleep and exercise capacity. Benefits remained at 24 weeks after the study’s start.

The results were published in the New England Journal of Medicine. In an editorial, two doctors and an Oriental medicine specialist from Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston called the results “provocative” and “striking,” but said that it’s unclear how much of the benefit is due to a placebo effect. The results need to

be repeated in a larger study, they conclude.

The study’s main sponsor was the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, a division of the NIH. Several of its authors have received federal grants for mind-body research, and one has financial ties to companies that make drugs to treat fibromyalgia.

Friendship Terrace Retirement Community in Northwest Washington is offering free tai chi classes to both residents and non-residents on Fridays at noon. To sign up, call the Friendship Terrace activities director at (202) 244-7400. Look for other tai chi classes through your local recreation department or senior center.

For more information about tai chi and the study, see the following websites: http://nccam.nih.gov/health/taichi and www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/fibromyalgia.html.

Artificial cornea restores sight Scientists have created a new kind of artificial cornea, inserting a sliver of collagen into the eye that coaxes its own natural corneal cells to regrow and restore vision.

It worked in a first-stage study of 10 patients in Sweden, researchers reported.

And while larger studies are needed, it is a step toward developing an alternative to standard cornea transplants that aren’t available in much of the world because of a shortage of donated corneas.

“We’re trying to regenerate the cornea from within,” said Dr. May Griffith, senior scientist at the Ottawa Hospital Research Institute in Canada and a professor of reSee HEALTH SHORTS, page 35

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

Health shorts From page 34 generative medicine at Linkoping University in Sweden.

Vision depends on a healthy cornea, the film-like covering of the eye’s surface that helps it focus light. Corneas are fragile, easily harmed by injury or infection, and about 42,000 people in the U.S. receive transplanted corneas every year.

While that is considered an adequate supply in the U.S., donated corneas are not available in many countries for the estimated 10 million people worldwide with corneal blindness. Transplants also bring risk of rejection.

In addition, researchers are working to improve plastic-like artificial corneas and to create stem-cell treatments that could spur corneal growth.

The new work, published in the journal Science Translational Medicine, is about a bioartificial cornea — an attempt to use the same natural substances that make up a real cornea to induce healing.

“I characterize this work as a major advance in the direction that we need to go,” said Dr. Alan Carlson, cornea transplant chief at Duke University’s eye center, who was not involved in the research. To “make this mimic donor tissue to the extent that your own cells ultimately become incorporated in this tissue, I think that’s the most exciting aspect.”

A cornea’s structure is made up of a tissue called collagen. First, researchers took human collagen grown in yeast, made

by San Francisco-based FibroGen Inc., and molded it into a contact lens-looking shape — the scaffolding, essentially, for a cornea.

Then Griffith, working with Linkoping University eye surgeon Dr. Per Fagerholm, studied the bioartificial cornea in 10 patients with severe vision loss from damage to a corneal layer. Damaged tissue in one eye was removed, and the new biosynthetic cornea implanted.

Soon, cells that line a healthy cornea started growing in the collagen. Tear production normalized, and even corneal nerves regrew, something researchers could test by measuring sensitivity. There was no rejection, and patients didn’t need

immune-suppressing medication.

Two years later, six of the patients had significantly improved vision with glasses and two were no worse. When implanted with contact lenses that previously they could not tolerate, patients saw as well as a similar group of patients who had received standard corneal transplants.

Painkiller abuse doubles ER visits

roughly doubled from the late 1990s to 2006, and most of the increase was attributed to prescription opiates such as the painkillers methadone, Oxycontin and Vicodin.

“The abuse of prescription drugs is our

nation’s fastest-growing drug problem,” Gil Kerlikowske, director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy, said in a statement.

— AP

BEACON BITS

Oct. 15

50+ EXPO IN HOWARD COUNTY The Howard County Office on Aging will present the 12th annual

50+Expo at Wilde Lake High School, 5460 Trumpeter Ln. in Columbia, Md., on Friday, October 15 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The annual event features more than

For the first time, abuse of painkillers and other medication is sending as many people to the hospital as the use of illegal drugs.

In 2008, hospital emergency rooms saw an estimated 1 million visits from people abusing prescription or over-the-counter medicines — mostly painkillers and sedatives. That was about the same number of visits from those overdosing on heroin, cocaine and other illegal drugs, according to a government report.

Only five years earlier, illegal drug visits outnumbered those from legal medications by a 2-to-1 margin. In other words, the number of ER visits from medication abuse doubled, said Peter Delany of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.

“It’s a pretty startling jump,” Delany said. He led a team that worked with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on the report.

Painkillers and sedatives clearly drove the trend. ER visits for the painkillers oxycodone and hydrocodone more than doubled from 2004 to 2008. And cases from one kind of tranquilizer nearly doubled.

The estimates are based on emergency room data from more than 200 U.S. hospitals. Many of the cases may be overdoses, but some may come from mixing drugs or combining them with alcohol, Delany said.

Health officials are not sure why painkiller abuse rose so dramatically. But the number of prescriptions has been increasing, so some of those who ended up in ERs may have gotten their medicine legally.

The authors did not estimate how many of the ER patients died. A CDC report last year found that the rate of drug-related deaths

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Fitness & Health

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

On her 81st Birthday, Mom bought her first convertible!

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The WeGo from Rascal solves a variety of mobility problems making it the most versatile product on the market today.

It’s simple, easy-to-operate, portable, and can be steered by you or a walking companion. This portable, companion (or self) controlled, compact, motorized transport chair seeks to replace cumbersome manual wheelchairs, heavy scooters and power wheelchairs for all transport needs. The rider no longer has to feel guilty about being pushed around in a wheelchair, and the burden of the caregiver's neck, shoulder, back and leg injuries should be dramatically reduced with this modern, motorized mobility solution. y Mother is getting up in years-81!

And she loves to get out of the house.

She gets bored at home, especially since it’s a two story house, and she’s basically confined to the first floor. She’s always calling me to take her to the mall or to restaurants. I love doing it, but she’s unstable on her feet, so she goes in a wheelchair. I'm small, not overly strong and not so young myself. I have a lot of trouble pushing her around – so much so that I’ve even made up excuses to avoid taking her ... I feel really bad about this, that is – I used to feel bad.

That was before a friend told me about the WeGo from Rascal. It’s given Mom back her independence, and it’s given me back my peace of mind. Gotta go– I'm taking her to her Tuesday Bingo game.”

Do you, or someone you love, have difficulty walking? If so, solutions in the past were to get a manual or electric wheelchair, power chair or scooter. Don't get me wrong, each of these products provide help for millions of Americans with mobility issues, but each one is limited in how it can be used. Power chairs are fine for getting around your home, but they are too heavy to take in the car. Scooters are more portable, but they are too big to fit through most doorways.What's worse, if you are riding one in a crowded situaRider Operating tion, like a mall, Steering Column you can’t see included to allow for where you are self operation and going and might rider independence! hit someone.

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Why WeGo is Better: • Adjusts to accommodate both the caregiver and loved one’s individual size, arm length and stature • This portable, stable, compact, motorized transport chair makes transportability easier than ever • Features a wireless connector system for easy 3-step frame disassembly and assembly • The Rascal WeGo has a weight capacity of 250 lbs. and a top speed of 3 mph with up to an all day range • WeGo comes with a one-year service contract

they can walk with you without having to push — it even has variable speeds in forward and reverse. Ramps and inclines can now be ascended and descended without effort or worry! The ergonomic position of the attendant operating system helps reduce carpel tunnel injuries and can be adjusted easily to all heights. If the rider prefers independence, simply attach the Rider Operating Steering Column and they can operate it by themselves. The WeGo features a complete line of safety enhancements to ensure that when you want to stop moving, you stop moving. It has an automatic parking brake to protect against accidental "runaways" on inclines and ramps prevalent with manual

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

37

Stable weight but growing waist? Beware

By Carla K. Johnson If you are feeling a bit big around the waistline, take note: Belly bulge can be deadly for older adults, even those who aren’t overweight or obese by other measures.

One of the largest studies to examine the dangers of abdominal fat suggests men and women with the biggest waistlines have twice the risk of dying over a decade compared to those with the smallest tummies.

Surprisingly, bigger waists carry a greater risk of death even for people whose weight is “normal” by the body mass index (BMI) — a standard measure based on weight and height.

“Even if you haven’t had a noticeable weight gain, if you notice your waist size increasing, that’s an important sign,” said lead author Eric Jacobs of the American Cancer Society, which funded the study. “It’s time to eat better and start exercising more.”

Other research has linked waist size to dementia, heart disease, asthma and breast cancer.

Most are too big Bulging bellies are a problem for most Americans older than 50. It’s estimated that more than half of older men and more than 70 percent of older women have bigger waistlines than recommended.

And it’s a growing problem, no pun intended. Average waistlines have expanded by about one inch per decade since the 1960s.

To check your girth, wrap a tape measure around your waist at the navel. No fair sucking in your bulge. Men should have a waist circumference no larger than 40 inches. For women, the limit is 35 inches.

The new study, appearing in the Archives of Internal Medicine, is the first to analyze waist size and deaths for people in three BMI categories: normal, overweight and obese. In all three groups, waist size was linked to higher risk.

About 2 percent of people in the study had normal BMI numbers but larger-thanrecommended waists. Jacobs said the risk increased progressively with increasing waist size, even at waist sizes well below what might be considered too large.

The study used data from more than 100,000 people who were followed from 1997 to 2006. Nearly 15,000 people died during that time.

The researchers crunched numbers on waist circumference, height and weight to draw conclusions about who was more likely to die. Study participants measured their own waists, so some honest mistakes and wishful fudging could have been included, the authors acknowledged.

Four extra inches around the waist increased the risk of dying between 15 and 25 percent. Oddly, the strongest link — 25 percent — was in women with normal BMI. People with bigger waists had a higher risk of death from causes including respiratory illnesses, heart disease and cancer.

The study was observational, a less rigorous approach that means the deaths could have been caused by factors other than waist size. But the researchers did take into account other risk factors for poor health, such as smoking and alcohol use.

Belly fat is different Some older adults gain belly fat while they lose muscle mass, Jacobs said, so while they may not be getting heavier, they’re changing shape — and that’s taking a toll, too.

A tape measure, or a belt that doesn’t buckle the way it used to, “may tell you things your scale doesn’t,” Jacobs said.

Fat stored behind the abdominal wall may be more harmful than fat stored on the hips and thighs. Some scientists believe belly fat secretes proteins and hormones that contribute to inflammation, in-

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terfere with how the body processes insulin, and raise cholesterol levels.

But Dr. Samuel Klein, an obesity expert at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, is skeptical about that theory. Removing belly fat surgically doesn’t lead to health improvements.

That may mean it’s simply a stand-in for some other culprit that is causing both belly fat and poor health. Klein wasn’t involved in the new research.

Klein said the new study, while showing

a link between waist size and mortality, doesn’t pinpoint exactly how much belly fat is dangerous for normal, overweight and obese people. The cutoff points of 40 inches for men and 35 inches for women are irrelevant for many people, he said.

What can be done to fight belly fat? It’s the same advice as for losing weight. Eat fewer calories and burn more through walking, bicycling and other aerobic exercise. “Sit-ups are useless,” Klein said.

— AP

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Fitness & Health

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

How you can reduce a craving for sweets Q: I want to eat healthfully, but cravThe researchers suggested that regularings for sweets are my ly using chocolate to satisfy downfall. What can I do? hunger teaches us to crave it.

A: The good news is that If true, that could apply to healthy eating does leave us other sweets, too. with some room for sweets.

Normalizing sweets can Yet few of us can have a sweet also gradually reduce cravdrink or treat each time we ings that are rebound effects see one and meet the goal of of overly restrictive dieting. If “moderation.” your cravings are emotion-reIs it seeing sweets or knowlated, the pattern may being they’re around that draws come stronger each time you you? Studies show that one use sweets to cope with emoNUTRITION way to reduce the tempting tions.

WISE power of sweets is to limit variTry not to focus on what

By Karen Collins, ety. If ice cream or cookies are you don’t want to do (eat MS, RD, CDM your weakness, stock one flasweets) and focus instead on vor at a time. Identify the non-food strategies you’ve sweets you enjoy most and try to stick only identified to respond to emotions and to those, skipping sweets you eat just be- stress. cause they’re available.

Q: Do special products for washing Some people find that using sweets only vegetables make them safer? for dessert, rather than snacks, makes it A: Washing produce is very important easier to limit them and decreases crav- for food safety. You can find arguments ings. that do and do not support special wash One study found that after two weeks of products, but most food safety experts adeating chocolate twice a day, 15 to 30 min- vise that these products are not needed. utes after a meal, chocolate cravers re- Especially for produce that is not waxed, duced their desire for chocolate. But both such as broccoli, greens or berries, runcravers and non-cravers who ate chocolate ning water is very effective at removing daily between meals ended up with an in- dirt and germs. creased desire for chocolate.

Consumer interest in these products is

often tied to a belief that these washes reduce pesticide levels, but the government does not require any tests to prove such an effect. The few research studies available show little or no effect beyond that of a thorough water rinse.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not recommend washing fruits and vegetables with soap, detergent or commercial produce washes.

If you feel more comfortable using a produce wash, as long as you follow label directions, go ahead. But research doesn’t suggest anything more complicated than running water for at least 30 seconds and perhaps a scrub brush for sturdy produce.

Q: If blood pressure control is all about limiting sodium, what has eating more vegetables and fruits got to do with better blood pressure?

A: Limiting sodium is an important step to reduce risk of high blood pressure and, for many people, to control it. However, eating lots of vegetables and fruits adds another layer of protection.

In the ENCORE study, overweight men and women with above normal blood pressure achieved drops of 11 mm. Hg /8 mm.

Hg after just four months on a diet that limited sodium and fat and loaded up on vegetables and fruits. These foods supply potassium, magnesium and dietary fiber, all of which seem to help control blood pressure.

Aim for at least one cup total of vegetables and fruits at each meal and a snack, and you’ll easily reach the level consumed in studies of the DASH diet, a high vegetable-fruit diet that consistently reduces blood pressure.

The ENCORE study showed that adding exercise and weight loss of about a pound a week to this high-produce eating style can reduce blood pressure even further.

The American Institute for Cancer Research offers a Nutrition Hotline, 1-800843-8114, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. This free service allows you to ask questions about diet, nutrition and cancer. A registered dietitian will return your call, usually within three business days.

Courtesy of the American Institute for Cancer Research. Questions for this column may be sent to “Nutrition-Wise,” 1759 R St., N.W. Washington, DC 20009. Collins cannot respond to questions personally.

Submit a letter to the editor. See p. 4.

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Fitness & Health

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A virtuous, but luscious, pumpkin cake

By Dana Jacobi Low-fat baking can be a minefield.

Recipes that look good on paper may turn out well or they may produce disappointing results. A perfect example of a recent flop was a pumpkin bread recipe that I came across in a magazine.

The eye-catching virtues of this recipe were using whole-wheat flour, skim milk, egg whites only and the good amount of fiber found in canned pumpkin. The resulting loaf had wonderful spice flavor. It also was weighty as a doorstop and so wet that the center had the texture of bread pudding.

(I will not reveal the name of the magazine since this flop was the rare exception.

Their recipes nearly always produce outstanding results.)

Reevaluating the recipe, I identified two prime issues — too little fat and incorrect leavening. Fat helps make baked goods tender and light as it coats the grains of flour, which helps them stay separated so as not to clump together in a soggy, saturated dough. Separated, the grains of flour rise more easily as the batter bakes.

To keep calories and saturated fat down and not bring in the big guns of butter and oil, I used a whole egg to contribute the fat in its yolk, added buttermilk, and increased the amount of sour cream. That was enough fat to benefit the batter.

To understand the role of leavening in baking, see www.joyofbaking.com/bakingsoda.html, which gives a good explanation of how each type works and when to use each one. In this case, adding baking soda and re-

ducing the amount of baking powder proved to be the correct fixes.

I also baked the new batter in a Bundt pan so heat in the oven could reach more of the batter to help it rise and bake through. But any 8-cup tube pan will do.

The recipe below produces a perfectly moist cake with a fluffy, large crumb and intense flavor.

Pumpkin Bundt Cake Canola oil cooking spray 1 cup whole-wheat pastry flour 1 cup unbleached all-purpose flour 1½ tsp. baking powder ½ tsp. baking soda 2 tsp. ground cinnamon ½ tsp. ground ginger ¼ tsp. ground cloves ¼ tsp. freshly ground nutmeg ¼ tsp. salt

1 large egg 1 large egg white ¾ cup brown sugar, firmly packed 1 cup low-fat buttermilk ½ cup reduced-fat sour cream 1 cup canned unsweetened pumpkin puree Confectioners’ sugar, optional, for decoration Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Coat eight-cup bundt cake or tube pan liberally with canola oil cooking spray.

In large mixing bowl, combine two flours, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg and salt.

Make a well in center and set aside.

In another bowl, whisk egg and white to combine. Add sugar and whisk until dissolved. Add buttermilk, sour cream and pumpkin, whisking to combine all wet ingredients. Pour wet ingredients into center of bowl of dry ingredients and, using

flexible spatula, mix until they are just combined and still slightly lumpy. Scoop batter into prepared baking pan.

Bake cake in center of oven for 70-75 minutes, until surface is browned and straw inserted into center comes out clean and nearly dry. Do not worry about cracks on the surface.

Set baked cake on wire rack and cool for five minutes. Run thin knife around center post and inside edge of pan. Set plate over pan and, holding in place, invert so cake drops onto plate. Cool completely.

If desired, sprinkle cake lightly with confectioners’ sugar before serving.

Makes 12 servings.

Per serving: 170 calories, 2.5 g. total fat (1 g. saturated fat), 33 g. carbohydrate, 5 g. protein, 2 g. dietary fiber, 210 mg. sodium.

Dana Jacobi creates recipes for the American Institute for Cancer Research.

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Fitness & Health

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

Suggestions for sleeping more soundly Dear Pharmacist: very subtle benefit so don’t toss out your I often feel worried and anxious, BP meds okay! Guess what else? It can imand I don’t sleep well. I prove eczema and other skin know I’m a nervous wreck, conditions. but I refuse tranquilizers Researchers found that because they are addictive. lemon balm prevents spreadI also have a weak stoming of the herpes simplex ach. Is there anything natviruses (HSV), including the ural? shingles and cold sore type.

— D.E.: In a study on cold sores, Dear D.E.: lemon balm shortened duraThere are lots of choices tion and lessened recurrence for these ailments, and my faof HSV infections. vorite is lemon balm (Melissa DEAR For this use, steep three taofficinalis). For centuries, it’s PHARMACIST blespoons of the dried herb in helped relieve the digestive By Suzy Cohen a cup of hot water for 15 minwoes of many folks who feel utes. Cool and apply the teastressed out. water to your sores with gauze. Prepared Lemon balm is a member of the mint “lemon balm cream” is also sold online and family. One of its primary ingredients is at some health food stores. citronella, an essential oil frequently used If you want to try lemon balm, you have in mosquito-repellent candles. Cool, huh? lots of choices. You can buy an essential oil Lemon balm also contains anti-microbial for external use only. Sniff before bedtime tannins and eugenol, which helps reduce to prevent nightmares in children, or take muscle spasms. a whiff to instantly relieve your anxiety The scientific literature I’ve read shows (like if your plane hits turbulence or your that lemon balm herb can relax you, help editor calls and says, “Where’s your colyou sleep, relieve pain and soothe stomach umn, it was due yesterday, hmm?”). Lavendiscomfort (gas, bloating and nausea). der works well for this indication, too.

Another lovely thing about lemon balm For many years, I was a nursing home is its ability to mildly dilate your blood ves- consultant pharmacist, and I see a use for sels and lower blood pressure. This is a lemon balm in that setting as well. It’s a

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natural way to help calm dementia patients experiencing agitation, or “sundowning” without having to resort to potent mindbending meds.

You can also buy it in commercially prepared formulas, either by itself, or in combination with other calming herbs such as valerian, hops and chamomile. These are intended for sleep.

You can also buy prepared teas. I buy the dried herb in bulk. I steep three tablespoons of it into two cups of boiling water for 10 minutes and then add fresh spearmint leaves and honey. It has a light and fresh citrus-mint flavor.

You can chill the tea and sip all day to improve mood, relieve PMS symptoms and regulate thyroid hormone.

Long live lemon balm, for it can instantly soothe your stress.

Dear Pharmacist: I’m having trouble sleeping, and I’m wondering if it has something to do with my new medications. I’ve begun taking sertraline (Zoloft) for depression at night and hydrocodone for pain, which I take every morning.

The problem is that I feel like a zombie at work, but I stay up all night.

Is this normal?

— B.D. Dear B.D.: It’s all about timing, and your timing is backwards! There’s a simple rule in pharmacy: Take energizing medications in the morning, and relaxing ones at night.

The reasoning behind that is to take advantage of the side effect that typically occurs with a particular medication. For example, in your case, the sertraline (Zoloft) is wonderful at raising energy levels and increasing alertness. The reason you are up all night is because you are taking an energizing medication at bedtime.

Unless you enjoy infomercials or like to Facebook in the wee hours, I suggest you change your timing. In fact, all the medications in this class of SSRI antidepressants should be taken in the morning or around lunchtime.

Pain medications such as hydrocodone/ac-

etaminophen (Lortab, Norco or Vicodin) are notorious for causing one to feel relaxed and sleepy. Because you are taking it in the morning, you feel like a “zombie.”

I recommend you take this medication a half-hour before bedtime. It’s okay to take pain meds with a little snack or some food to minimize any stomach discomfort, should that be a problem for you.

Note that prescribed analgesics in this class are known to slightly slow down respiration and heart rate, and sensitive people can feel dizzy, too.

If you are uncertain about when to take your particular medication, ask your local pharmacist to weigh in.

Here are some basic guidelines to follow: Sleep medications: Take these 10 to 60 minutes before you want to go to sleep.

This goes for over-the-counter sleep aids, as well as prescribed medications. Never combine these meds with alcohol.

Thyroid hormones: Take it first thing in the morning, upon arising and on an empty stomach. Thyroid medications are intended to raise energy, speed up metabolic rate and burn fat during the day.

Blood pressure meds: Generally speaking, take these at bedtime. Just get out of bed very slowly in the morning because they can cause orthostatic hypotension (a sudden drop in blood pressure when arising).

Nasal decongestants: Often found in cold medications to help unstuff your nose. These are energizing, so take them during the day. Sustained-release formulas cause less of an energy ‘jolt’ but still provide long-acting relief.

Diuretics: These “water pills” lower blood pressure by making you urinate more. Take them in the morning so you are not racing to the bathroom all night.

This information is opinion only. It is not intended to treat, cure or diagnose your condition. Consult with your doctor before using any new drug or supplement.

Suzy Cohen is a registered pharmacist and the author of The 24-Hour Pharmacist and Real Solutions from Head to Toe. To contact her, visit www.dearpharmacist.com.

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Fitness & Health

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41

Stop bad drivers and start a call girl ring Dear Solutions: There’s a serious dent in his driving I was in the parking area of a senior ability, and he needs to be stopped. housing development, and Dear Solutions: I watched amazed as a I’m really a very indedriver got into his car, pendent woman and alstarted to pull out of a ways have been. I’m alone parking area, and hit the now. I have some good car next to him. friends, but my children Then he pulled back in, live far away. and when he started to pull Lately, I’m a little scared out again, he hit the car a of something happening to second time! He then just me during the day. No one drove of f, leaving a bad would know, and I wouldSOLUTIONS dent in the other car. n’t be able to get help.

I took down his license By Helen Oxenberg, I know there are devices number. I know the woman MSW, ACSW you can wear or somewhose car was hit, and I know he’s her neighbor. Do you think I should tell her? I don’t want to cause trouble between them.

— Another Senior Dear Another: How will you feel if the next dent he causes is into someone — not just someone’s car? You must report this not only so the woman can hold him responsible for fixing her car (if she can get him to confess), but to prevent this dangerous driver from causing a more serious accident next time.

thing, but they’re pretty expensive. I wonder if you have any other suggestions for women like me.

— Bertha Dear Bertha: You and your friends have a golden opportunity to try a career you’ve probably never thought of before: Become call girls!

You could be the “madam” and organize this venture. Arrange a round-robin calling assignment. Get three or four friends together and assign each one to call another one of you every night to check and see that they’re OK. Then that one calls the

next on the list, and so on.

That way, each of you only has to make one call a night. If you’ll be away for the evening, make two calls — one to the person assigned to call you and one to your assigned call.

You should also have each other’s house key (clearly marked) and specific plans for what you would do in an emergency (who to call, etc.). Since you’re doing all this by phone you could call yourselves the first Senior Call Girl Ring in America!

Dear Solutions: I went to a college reunion with my much younger brother. We went to the same college but graduated in different years, of course.

A former dorm-mate of my brother came up to greet him and actually kissed him hard and pretty long on the mouth. I was shocked.

I’m sure my brother’s not gay, but

does this mean the other guy is?

Shouldn’t my brother stay away from him so people won’t think he’s gay also?

— Rhoda Dear Rhoda: Gay. Not gay. What does your brother say, besides “mind your own business” — which would be the appropriate response to you? What’s wrong with men being affectionate instead of always having to maintain a macho image — gay or straight?

Stop worrying about your brother’s attitude or orientation. Worry about your own attitude, which needs some gentler, kinder adjustment. © Helen Oxenberg, 2010. Questions to be considered for this column may be sent to: The Beacon, P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915. You may also e-mail the author at helox72@comcast.net. To inquire about reprint rights, call (609) 655-3684

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26

LEARN MAHJONG

Bridging the journey from hospital to home.

The Burke/West Springfield Senior Center Without Walls will offer mahjong instruction on Tuesdays for eight consecutive weeks, beginning on Tuesday, Oct. 12 from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. at the Heatherwood Retirement Community, 9246 Burke Lake Rd., Burke, Va. Cost is $5 per person for Fairfax County residents and $10 per person for non-residents. To register, visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/rec/senior_ctr/cfw.htm or call (703) 324-5544.

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DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA OFFICE ON AGING

Spotlight On Aging VOLUME XXV, ISSUE 10

A newsletter for D.C. Seniors

Ward 1 Senior Wellness Center Opens

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE

By Dr. Clarence Brown Congratulations. We have successfully made it to fiscal year 2011!

Despite a fiscal year filled with budget and service delivery challenges, we have continued to be the primary agency available to provide home and community-based services to 100,869 senior residents in the District. In FY 2011, DCOA/ADRC will continue to strive to improve and meet the needs of District residents age 60 and older, persons with disabilities age 18 and older, and caregivers.

As you know, the Mayor, Councilmember Jim Graham, Commissioners, neighborhood residents and others cut the ribbon on the Ward One Senior Wellness Center at 3531 Georgia Ave., N.W. on Sept. 10.

We have been busy registering participants and completing the work necessary to have the wellness center fully operational by mid-October.

If you haven’t done so already, stop by and see what the great new center has to offer.

Over the next few months at many of our program sites, we will be hosting several six-week Diabetes Self Management training programs.

The training will be provided by the

October 2010

21 trainees who completed the Diabetes Self Management MasterTraining Program.

The program is made possible by funds from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act for the Communities Putting Prevention to Work Initiative/Chronic Disease Self-Management Program.

The program is designed to give seniors the proper tools, knowledge and skills to better manage their diabetes, and enable them to build selfconfidence to assume a major role in maintaining good health. Please contact the D.C. Office on Aging for additional information on dates and locations for the training.

Regular exercise and healthy eating habits can go a long way in the prevention of many diseases that affect the elderly. As part of our various services available to seniors, we have nutrition education, exercise, and health and wellness programs at our senior centers and senior wellness centers.

Please take advantage of all services that are available to District residents. Call 202-724-5626 or the Mayor’s Citywide Call Center at 311 to access services in the city.

Fire Prevention Week October 3-9 “Beep-Beep — A Sound You Can Live With” Join residents at Robert Walls Senior Building, 4339 Bowen Rd., S.E., on Thursday, October 7 from 10 to 11 a.m. for more information, fire prevention tips, activities and giveaways. If you are in need of a smoke detector for your home, please call 202-373-3331 for more information.

Wellness has finally arrived for seniors in Ward 1 at the newly constructed Ward 1 Senior Wellness Center. Located at 3531 Georgia Ave., N.W., at

the corner of Georgia Avenue and Newton Place, N.W., the facility was constructed with environmentally friendly materials.

Mayor Adrian M. Fenty, Ward One Councilmember Jim Graham and Executive Director Clarence Brown are joined by Commissioners on Aging and other Ward 1 community leaders and seniors as the ribbon is cut on the Ward 1 Senior Wellness Center.

The 15,000 square foot center features the following: • Nutrition counseling and teaching classrooms • Intake room • Health education seminar rooms • Exercise and fitness area • Massage room • Computer training center

Aging News

• Multipurpose rooms • Offices for staff • Rooftop terrace with walking space The center promises to be three floors of activity for the mind, body and spirit. For more information on the Ward 1 Senior Wellness Center, call 202-727-0338.

The recent report, “World Alzheimer Report 2010: The Global Economic Impact of Dementia" by Alzheimer's Disease International, revealed the global costs of dementia care as a staggering $604 billion.

Aging Service Providers in Your Area Barney Neighborhood House Senior Program, Wards 1 and 4

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202-966-1055 Seabury Ward 5 Aging Services, Ward 5 202-529-8701

Downtown Cluster’s Aging Services, Ward 8 202-610-6103

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D.C. OFFICE

ON

AGING NEWSLETTER

Community Calendar October events 8th • 6:30 to 10:30 p.m.

The Downtown Cluster’s Geriatric Day Care Center, Inc. and Aging Services will celebrate its 34th anniversary with a gala dinner. Featuring live music, dancing, food and drinks, the dinner will be held at the Naval District Washington Catering and Conference Center, 1454 Parsons Ave., S.E. Contact the Center at 202-347-7527 for tickets to the event or additional information.

12th • 6:30 to 8 p.m.

Retirees and those planning retirement are invited to attend “Take Charge, Age Well,” a practical workshop for people who are eager to remain active, engaged and connected. The seminar will be led by social worker Deb Rubenstein, director of IONA’s consultation, care management and counseling services and Lylie Fisher, manager of IONA’s volunteer program and a certified life coach. IONA is located at 4125 Albemarle St., N.W. Call 202-8959479 for more information.

Diabetes classes are being offered by the Washington Seniors Wellness Center, 3100 Alabama Ave., S.E. The free classes are offered in partnership with the Delmarva Foundation. Contact program director Renee Few at 202-581-9355 for additional information.

15th • 5 to 8 p.m.

Come and enjoy cool art, hot jazz music, wine and hors d’oeuvres. A reception to meet photographer.

Lee Goodwin and sculptor. Marilee Harris Shapiro will be held in the Gallery at IONA Senior Services, 4125 Albemarle St., N.W., one block from the Tenleytown Metro station on the Red Line. For more information, call 202-895-9448.

20th • 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Hattie Holmes Senior Wellness Center, 324 Kennedy St., N.W., is observing its third anniversary celebration and open house by offering exhibits, health screenings and flu shots. For additional information, contact Teresa Moore at 202-291-6170.

National Hispanic Heritage Month September 15th to October 15th Theme: "Heritage, Diversity, will be held Tuesday, October 26 from Integrity and Honor: The Re- 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. at the Embassy of Finland in Northwest D.C. The emnewed Hope of America" Vida Senior Centers will celebrate the end of National Hispanic Heritage Month and the construction of a new facility in the Brightwood section of Ward 4.

“We invite all of our friends — old and new — to join us in celebrating the new center and our anniversary, and to support the growing needs of D.C.’s multicultural low-income seniors,” said Angel Luis Irene, executive director.

Vida’s 41st anniversary reception

November event

12th, 19th, 26th 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

bassy is an award-winning building known for its environmentally friendly, energy-saving features, many of which the new Vida Senior Centers will also feature.

Tickets must be purchased in advance. Ticket sales support the construction of the new Vida Senior Centers facility. To order tickets or for more information, visit www.vidaseniorcenters.org or call the event organizers at 571-312-2709.

11th • 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

The East River Family Strengthening Collaborative, Inc. KEEN Seniors Program is planning a oneday fundraising trip to Hollywood Casino at Charlestown. Cost of the trip is $30 per person, and participants will be given $15 for slots play. Light refreshments will be ser ved in route. Contact Robin Gantt for reservations at 202-534-4880, ext.

110.

Ongoing Fitness instructor Rodney Jordan is back at the Washington Seniors Wellness Center, 3100 Alabama Ave., S.E., offering evening and weekend sessions for seniors who prefer to exercise at those times. A choice of three 40-minute sessions are scheduled for Monday and Wednesday evenings and Saturday mornings. For class times and additional information, contact Renee Few at 202-581-9355.

Are you a person with a DISABILITY living in the District?

If you are age 18 and older, let DCOA/ADRC help you select the best option for your local transportation needs.

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

441 4th St., N.W., 9th Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001 202-724-5622 • www.dcoa.dc.gov Dr. Clarence Brown, Executive Director Darlene Nowlin, Editor Vikrum Aiver, Photographer The D.C. Office on Aging does not discriminate against anyone based on actual or perceived: race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, familial status, family responsibilities, matriculation, political affiliation, disability, source of income, and place of residence or business.

Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination which is prohibited by the Act. In addition, harassment based on any of the above protected categories is prohibited by the Act. Discrimination in violation of the Act will not be tolerated.

Violators will be subjected to disciplinary action.

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

• Medical appointments • Business appointments • Personal business and more!

DCOA/Aging and Disability Resource Center

(202) 724-5626 or TTY (202) 724-8925 Citywide 311 www.adrc.dc.gov

44

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

Does your organization use senior volunteers or do you employ a number of seniors?

Careers Volunteers &

If so and you’d like to be considered for a story in our Volunteers & Careers section, please send an e-mail to info@thebeaconnewspapers.com.

Promoting volunteerism, encore careers and engaging stakeholders, and creating a sustainable infrastructure.

For the past 18 months, Maryland has been one of six states selected by the National Governor’s Association to participate in a “policy academy” on civic engagement for older adults. The goals were to increase older adults’ participation in community service, the labor market and lifelong learning.

Maryland ranks 14th among the states in volunteer rates among those 65 and older and 20th for baby boomers, according to the Corporation for National and Community Service.

Older adults in general regularly volunteer at a far higher rate than younger people. In Maryland, the median number of hours those age 55 to 64 volunteer each year is 64, while it’s more than 100 for those 65 and older.

PHOTO COURTESY OF AARP

By Delia Sava In 1993, following the death of his wife from cancer, Gary Maxworthy retired after 32 years of experience in the food brokerage business. He joined Americorps VISTA and volunteered at a food bank, where he came up with solutions to problems he identified in the distribution system for produce.

Maxworthy came up with a plan. He convinced the food banks to band together and devised a system for growers to donate large amounts that had previously been tossed because it was less than perfect.

At the Governor’s Summit on Civic Engagement last month at the University of Maryland in Baltimore, Maxworthy’s story was held up as a shining example of what baby boomers can contribute as they enter retirement.

A cross-section of leaders who work in local and state aging networks was invited to participate in the day-long summit. The goal was to shape initiatives designed to increase the number of Marylanders over 50 who give back to society by promoting the value of community service, identifying

AARP President W. Lee Hammond (left), University of Maryland Baltimore President Dr. Jay A. Perman and Maryland Secretary of Aging Gloria Lawlah were among the speakers at the Governor’s Summit on Civic Engagement last month.

Finding a purpose Marc Freedman, founder and CEO of Civic Ventures, a San Francisco-based think tank, lauded Maxworthy in his keynote address at the summit. Maxworthy was one of the recipients of the

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$100,000 Purpose Prize, awarded by Freedman’s organization to social innovators over 60 who create new methods for solving society’s biggest problems.

As people move from “aspiration to action” in finding innovative ways to be engaged in their communities, they will need assistance and support, Freedman said.

“You can’t have a 30-year retirement,” said Freedman about the 78 million baby boomers making the transition to the next phase of their life.

He launched Encore Careers, an organization that helps aging baby boomers combine purpose, passion and a paycheck. A project of Civic Ventures, it offers advice, educational and training resources, employment opportunities and fellowships at its website, www.encore.org.

Citing developmental psychologist Erik Erikson’s oft-quoted statement, “I am what survives of me,” Freedman spoke of the baby boomers’ realization that the world they are passing on to future generations may not be better off than the one they inherited from their parents.

Freedman noted that society would realize a tremendous return on experience by utilizing the talents of this population.

“This could be transformative to get the culture back on track,” he said.

Freedman has written three books on the topics of meaningful work and volunteerism in later life. And a new book, Shift, the invention of a new stage of life after the middle years, will be published in February 2011.

See CIVIC ENGAGEMENT, page 46

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45

Janet Wright Honored with Philanthropy Award from Alzheimer’s Association J

anet Wright, director of admissions for Brooke Grove Retirement Village (BGRV) in Sandy Spring, Maryland, was one of 10 remarkable women honored by the Alzheimer’s Association, National Capital Area Chapter, during a luncheon held earlier this year at the Renaissance Hotel in Washington, D.C. The event recognized these individuals for their accomplishments in leading the region’s Alzheimer’s movement and launched a new initiative focused on inviting women who care about Alzheimer’s disease, its impact on women and their families, and the need for a cure to “Get Engaged!”

Ms. Wright was a recipient of the Philanthropy Award.

According to an article entitled “Alzheimer’s Association Launches New Initiative for Women,” published in the May/June 2010 issue of “Fairfax Woman,” Ms. Wright’s determination to make a difference in the fight against Alzheimer’s “stems from her personal and professional experience with the disease. She sees the devastating effects of Alzheimer’s in her work each day and knows what it feels like to love a mother who no longer recognizes her.” Ms. Wright began supporting the Alzheimer’s Association financially in the 1990s, when her mother and two aunts were diagnosed with Alzheimer’s.

She has served as captain of BGRV’s Memory Walk team

Philanthropy Award winner Janet Wright at the awards luncheon with Brooke Grove Foundation Vice President Dennis Hunter (left) and President Keith Gibb (right)

since 2001. Under her leadership, the team has grown consistently and was ranked as the number one fundraising team in 2008 and 2009. Over the last nine years, the BGRV team has raised more than $95,000 to support the Alzheimer’s Association’s programs and services. BGRV’s Memory Walk 2010 goal is to raise $16,060 for the cause.

“This award is such an honor to me because of how passionate I feel about this cause,” said Ms. Wright. “I am honored to share it with our very dedicated team of caregivers and Memory Walk fundraisers.”

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46

Volunteers & Careers

Lawlah From page 1 helps our young people appreciate their elders. They get a chance to see their great-grandmother.

“They have seen her in the best of health. They have seen her in the worst of health. They understand all those things we have to do for her and how we treat her,” she said.

In addition, Lawlah and her husband Jack, a retired civil engineer, remodeled and expanded their rambler three years ago, more than doubling its size to include five bedrooms and seven bathrooms.

While one of their goals was to make the house comfortable for Jack’s mother and their grandchildren to visit, Jack convinced her it was also important to make it accessible so they could grow older in the house themselves.

They added an elevator to connect all three levels. In addition, they added a kitchenette and extra washer and drier to the third floor, along with an extra bedroom for a potential future caregiver.

Lawlah reasoned that if they become infirm, they could live just on that floor.

“People said, ‘You won’t get your money back out of the house.’ We said, ‘We don’t care. It’s not an investment of that nature.

It’s an investment in where we want to live,’” Lawlah recalled.

“We did the things we thought would make it enjoyable and comfortable, and it had nothing to do with building a McMansion in a neighborhood of suburban ranch houses, which some people have complained about.

“My sons-in-laws are all contractors, so it was a family affair. Just like the song, we did it our way.”

Active in civil rights movement Lawlah’s come a long way from the tiny South Carolina town of Newberry, where she grew up in the deeply segregated

Civic engagement From page 44 He also co-founded Experience Corps, one of the largest national, nonprofit service programs for people over 55. Participants work as tutors and mentors of elementary school students, and have not only made measurable improvements to classrooms, but have improved their own health in the process. For more information, visit www.experiencecorps.org.

Locating opportunities Also at the summit, Maryland resident W. Lee Hammond, national president of AARP, spoke about the group’s initiative, Create the Good.

Through its website and searchable database at www.createthegood.org, the program helps match people looking to volunteer in their localities with opportunities posted by numerous nonprofits.

Currently more than 9 million older

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

South. But in some ways, she’s following a path her parents laid out.

Because African-Americans weren’t allowed to use the recreation facilities in town, Lawlah’s father, a technical engineer, built Lawlah and her sister their own regulation-size basketball court on the cornfield they owned. As a result, their home became a haven for the black children in the neighborhood.

Her mother was a teacher, and while Lawlah studied journalism at Hampton University in Virginia, she decided to become a teacher as well. Lawlah met Jack, a native Washingtonian, at Hampton, and they moved to the District after graduation.

Lawlah taught at Terrell Junior High in D.C. for 30 years and earned her master’s degree in English and administration from Trinity College.

She also became swept up in the farreaching changes for women and AfricanAmericans that began during the late 1960s and continued into the 1980s.

Lawlah met Marion Barry while both were active in the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee, one of the principal organizations involved with the civil rights movement.

“Those were the heady days of protest and opening doors and shattering glass ceilings and just making way for equality,” she recalled.

She attended the 1984 Democratic National Convention in San Francisco as an alternate for Walter Mondale. While there, she discovered that many male politicians, including Jesse Jackson, didn’t want to include women in their circle.

This led to her helping found the National Political Congress of Black Women to organize greater participation in the political process. Other members included Coretta Scott King, Eleanor Holmes Norton, Donna Brazille and Rosa Parks, “who was my heroine.”

Inspired by the experience, Lawlah de-

adults are working with AARP as volunteers, donors and activists. Four in 10 older Americans say they want to help even more than they do now, according to AARP. Rawle Andrews Jr., senior state director for AARP Maryland, said, “One of the things that AARP is committed to is our motto to serve, not to be served. So when we were approached about a summit to bring together leaders on aging and second half of life services, we ran to be part of this opportunity.”

The summit gave participants an opportunity to share “best practices” and explore new ideas, as well as make connections with others who share similar goals.

Michael Marcus, program director for older adults with the Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation in Baltimore, said the question of how we can best use this extraordinary resource to better our communities is one of the critical questions of our time.

cided to run for office herself. She was elected to the Maryland House of Delegates in 1986. Four years later, she became the first woman from Prince George’s County to be elected to the state Senate.

She said some of her biggest achievements included working on the Woodrow Wilson Bridge Commission, helping get National Harbor project built, and getting sound-buffering barriers placed along the Beltway in Prince George’s County to reduce noise in neighboring communities.

“That’s what people remember, the capital improvements,” she said.

A career transition While in the Senate, Lawlah served on the Budget and Taxation Committee, chairing its Health and Human Services Subcommittee. This proved to be the perfect segue to becoming Maryland’s Secretary of Aging.

Lawlah worked on Martin O’Malley’s 2006 campaign for governor, and he and her son went to high school together at Gonzaga College High School in the District. When he took office, O’Malley tapped her for the job.

“Gloria Lawlah is an invaluable asset to our administration, not only for her intellect and knowledge on issues of aging, but for her experience in government and ability to bring together the necessary stakeholders to get things done for Maryland seniors,” Gov. O’Malley told the Beacon.

“Of all cabinet members, Gloria was among the very first to develop a plan to utilize federal stimulus funds to benefit the senior population, and her continued advocacy on behalf of Maryland seniors ensures that all seniors in our state will have the necessary information on how the new healthcare reforms will affect them,” he added.

Deputy Secretary of Aging Ilene Rosenthal (no relation to the Beacon publisher) sees Lawlah as a consummate negotiator who is able to build consensus.

“Secretary Lawlah has the unique ability to extend her hand across the aisle. It doesn’t matter if they’re Democrats or Republicans. She’s always saying, ‘There’s my friend so and so.’ She really has a skill to get people on board and also has the ability to see the big picture,” Rosenthal said.

As an example, Rosenthal points to a major initiative called Maryland Access Point that is offering older residents and all adults with disabilities convenient access to programs and services that can help them.

In addition to placing one-stop-shop offices in each county (a project well underway, but not yet complete), a new website will soon be launched that provides information about and links to long-term care services and other resources throughout the state.

“She very quickly embraced the difficulties people were having with the [more fragmented current] system,” Rosenthal said. “She saw this as an initiative that would be a centerpiece in helping not just seniors but their caregivers and younger people with disabilities.”

Lawlah said she treasures the intergenerational atmosphere in the Maryland Department of Aging, noting that she has hired some enthusiastic young employees. ”Isn’t that exciting? You’re wedding the latest technology and research and methodology and young people with older people who need these services. Now that, to me, is important.”

As she looks toward the future, Lawlah also reflects back over her long career and what she’s seen in the world of politics.

“I look at everything that happened. We opened the doors for the new women politicians…We helped bring in Barack Obama…We opened the doors wide, so everyone could walk through those doors, and I think it’s wonderful.

“I never dreamed I would see all of these things done,” she said. “It just wows me. I have to pinch myself sometimes.”

BEACON BITS

Ongoing

ARTS LOVERS NEEDED The National Lutheran Home and Village is seeking a volunteer

who is knowledgeable about art history to share their expertise with seniors in an art appreciation series. The community is also looking for a volunteer to assist the music director with notifying residents of rehearsals, copying and preparing music, and distributing announcements. The National Lutheran Home and Village is located at 9701 Veirs Dr., Rockville, Md. Call (301) 354-8447 or send e-mail to volunteers@nlhv.org.

Ongoing

WORK WITH CHILDREN Side by Side, a faith-based nonprofit organization, is recruiting volunteers to work with Laurel, Md., elementary school students as

tutors, homework coaches, story-time readers or activity assistants. A half-day of training and ongoing professional support will be provided for those interested in becoming tutors or homework coaches. For more information or to apply, contact www.sidebysidelaurel.org or call Linda at (301) 931-1399.

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Travel Leisure &

Branson, Mo., has shows, shopping and more. See story on page 49.

Where wildlife (and tourists) take refuge it’s good news that the BP oil spill has had no impact and isn’t expected to in the future.

During winter, huge populations of migrant and resident birds join human visitors from the north to bask in the sun.

More than 100 islands just offshore range from tiny, uninhabited mangrove clusters to large beach-rimmed keys.

Given their hospitable climate, stretches of inviting flatland and rich supplies of fish and other food sources, the islands attracted Calusa Indians as early as 1150 B.C. The tribe remained there into the 1700s, when it fell prey to diseases carried

by Spanish settlers. Indian ceremonial, burial and refuse shell mounds still serve as reminders of their long stay.

Famous snowbirds

Kayakers at the Ding Darling refuge can view some of the 300 species of birds that nest there.

The Green Room on Cabbage Key near Ft. Myers earns its name from the autographed dollar bills thousands of patrons have tacked to the restaurant’s walls and ceiling.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE LEE COUNTY VISITOR & CONVENTION BUREAU

More recent inhabitants included some with familiar names. Thomas Edison, Henry Ford and Harvey Firestone were among well-known winter residents of the region.

The Edison home in Fort Myers, set on a 14-acre riverfront estate, is a charming old-Florida house. It is nestled among botanical gardens that contain species of plants and flowers that were included for their scientific value.

The home of Edison’s next-door neighbor, Henry Ford, is a more modest bungalow. On display are Model A and T cars from the early 1900s.

The homes are open to visitors daily.

See the website of the Edison and Ford

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE LEE COUNTY VISITOR & CONVENTION BUREAU

By Victor Block Years ago, a group of onlookers applauded enthusiastically as a ceremonial shovelful of dirt launched construction of a golf course overlooking the Gulf of Mexico. Just then, a southern bald eagle flew over the crowd, landed on its nest in the forest that was about to be razed, and settled onto a pair of eggs.

Today, the aptly named Sanctuary housing community, and its magnificent golf layout, surround an island of trees that was preserved so construction would not disturb the eagles’ habitat.

To those who live in the Ft. Myers and Sanibel area, on the western coast of southern Florida, this was but another example of what makes that corner of the state so special. Many visitors go there to soak up the sun and escape the winter cold further north.

Others are seashell collectors attracted by perfect conditions that strew beaches with some 300 multicolored species of mollusks — more varieties than anywhere else in North America.

It was the call of Mother Nature that lured me to the area and resulted in my leaving singing her praises. The natural environment thrives in over one million acres of sanctuaries that have been preserved and protected.

Unspoiled wetlands set off miles of white sand beaches. Virgin forests and swamplands remain hidden from the invasion of development. Given the beauty of the beaches,

Winter Estates at www.efwefla.org for more information.

Not being a knowledgeable shell collector, a visit to the Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum provided me with a surprisingly interesting introduction (without the sand and stooping).

Little did I know about the roles that shells have played in history, art, medicine, religion and other fields. Exhibits of stinging and poisonous shells, and a two-story tall globe surrounded by shells from around the world, often attract the largest crowds.

A different kind of shell caught my attention at the Clinic for Rehabilitation of Wildlife, which rescues a virtual Noah’s Ark of injured and abandoned animals. A turtle with a fish hook protruding from its mouth, and an armadillo with a fractured shield and spine, were among temporary residents when I was there.

Live video cameras in eight cages provide intimate views of patients on the mend, while a rather gory peek into the stomach of a pelican model with several fish hooks embedded in vital organs left me feeling guilty about the harm humans can impose upon helpless creatures.

Up close and personal In addition to created environments, close encounters with unspoiled nature

also are close by. The Ding Darling refuge is a good example.

Hugging the north side of Sanibel Island, this quaintly named preserve is conveniently accessible from the main highway. Yet as soon as you turn onto the four-mile-long dirt road that bisects the 6,400-acre tract, you immediately enter a very different world.

Water flats and mangrove forests stretch out from both sides of the roadway. Stands of sea grape, salt myrtle and cabbage palms provide a lush backdrop. Canoe and kayak trails wind through the thick growth.

Short walkways lead to scenic overlooks and jut out into mud flats where birds congregate. Nearly 300 species of birds find refuge at Ding Darling. As a neophyte watcher, I appreciated the fact that many cooperate by hanging out near signs with an identifying picture.

Also of interest is the name of the refuge. J.N. “Ding” Darling was a leading political cartoonist and winner of two Pulitzer Prizes, in 1923 and 1942.

Other than poking fun at politicians, conservation was his passion, and he worked ecological themes into many of his drawings. The refuge that bears his name is a fitting tribute to that interest.

At first introduction, the Six-Mile CySee FT. MYERS, page 48

48

Leisure & Travel

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

Ft. Myers From page 47 press Slough Preserve resembles a miniDarling setting. It has similar water flats, stands of subtropical ferns, and the ubiquitous herons and egrets. The sun filters through a high canopy of leaves and, other than the hushed voices of visitors, the only sounds are the rustling of tree branches and cries of resident birds.

However, closer inspection reveals intriguing differences. A mile-long boardwalk leads through the heart of the 2,000acre preserve. The setting evolves from pine flatwoods, to a central wet area, to an inner island of higher elevation hammock.

During my immersion in this setting, I learned that the word “slough” is pronounced “slew,” and that it differs from a swamp because water flows though a slough. Another interesting fact is that SixMile Cypress Preserve actually is nine miles long. (Its name refers to its distance from Fort Myers.)

Exploring by boat As intriguing as I found them, the wetland preserves so prevalent throughout the area play second fiddle to the open waters that criss-cross the region, and the islands they surround.

A good way to get out and about to explore this aquatic environment is in a tour boat that follows the watery byways.

The Lady Chadwick operated by Captiva Cruises offers a choice of itineraries, and I opted for the voyage to Cabbage Key. It wasn’t long after leaving the dock that we encountered several dolphins and, at the urging of the boat captain, yelled and whistled as they cavorted in the wake of the vessel.

Ignoring disapproving glances of people aboard passing boats, we learned — as our captain had explained — that noise encourages the Flipper-look-alikes to continue their delightful play.

The hour-long ride ended at the Cabbage Key dock. The tone of that fun and funky destination was set by a handmade sign that greets passengers as they disembark. Its message, reportedly conveyed to help conserve scarce fresh water, is “Shower with a friend.”

A hiking trail begins at a water tower that is topped by an osprey nest, follows narrow canals that once served as roads connecting Indian dwellings, and meanders past mounds on which those residences were built. The height of each mound served as an indication of the status of the family that lived in the structure,

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The center of action on the island is a somewhat ramshackle inn that occupies a building constructed in the 1930s by mystery writer Mary Roberts Rinehart.

Overnight accommodations are in six guest rooms and several cozy cottages.

The inn’s restaurant specializes in fresh seafood and homemade Key lime pie.

Patrons at the bar are bombarded by reggae music and the sounds of entertainer Jimmy Buffet, who is said to drop by now and then.

The bartender volunteered the information that the popular song writer penned the words to “Cheeseburger in Paradise” in honor of the one listed on the Cabbage Key restaurant menu. When pressed, however, he conceded that other dining establishments also make that claim.

Another claim to fame is a collection of autographed $1 bills that paper the restaurant’s walls. Estimates of their total value range as high as $20,000, and those that occasionally come loose and fall to the floor are donated to charity.

The story goes that sometime in the dim past, a local fisherman tacked up the first bill with his name on it, so he could be certain to have a frosty brew waiting on his return trip to the island. Now so many visitors leave their money and their mark that I had trouble finding a clear spot on which to memorialize my presence.

Someday I hope to return to reclaim the beverage that my token offering represents. I also hope to recapture the scenery and serenity of Fort Myers and Sanibel.

Friday, October 15, 2010 9 am to 4 pm

The Pink Shell Beach Resort is well located to enjoy both natural and man-made attractions of the area. Situated on 12 acres along Fort Myers beach, it has three heated swimming pools, recreational programs for guests of all age, and a long list of other amenities.

Suites comfortably accommodate up to six people, and the full kitchen can stretch dining dollars for those willing to eat in. Rates for two people sharing a room begin at $169 during NovemberDecember and $189 in Januar y-February. Special package plans are available on the website at www.pinkshell.com.

For more information, call (888) 2227465.

The three restaurants at Pink Shell provide plenty of incentive not to venture further. I alternated pasta dishes ($8.95$15.95) with fresh fish entrees, which begin at $14.95 and are accompanied by bountiful servings of sides .

A personal favorite was a fried grouper sandwich with excellent “island slaw” ($10.95). French fry fans face a difficult choice of garlic, BBQ rubbed or cinnamon sweet potato varieties ($1.95).

U.S. Airways offers the lowest mid-October round-trip fare from the Washington area at $220, available at all three local airports.

For more information about visiting the area, call (800) 237-6444 or log onto www.fortmyerssanibel.com.

Victor Block is a Washington, D.C.-based travel writer.

BEACON BITS

Oct. 16

FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT TOUR

Visit Fallingwater, a supreme example of Frank Lloyd Wright’s organic architecture. Led by architectural historian Karin Alexis, this tour will explore the only remaining major Wright work with its setting, original furnishings and artwork intact. Cost for members of the Smithsonian Resident Associate program is $150; general admission is $196. Bus leaves on Saturday, Oct. 16 from the Holiday Inn Capitol at 550 C St., S.W. at 8:30 a.m. and returns at 9:30 p.m. Call (202) 633-3030 with questions and to register.

Oct. 16

Blaze new trails in healthy aging at the 50+EXPO

Where to stay, eat

VOYAGE INTO HISTORY (WITH A BIG BAND)

Travel back in time to 1944 aboard Baltimore’s restored Liberty Ship John W. Brown on Saturday, Oct 16. The six-hour excursion will feature live big band music, military re-enactors and fly-bys of World War II aircraft. Cost for Arlington county residents is $155; for non-residents it is $158. Price includes continental breakfast, luncheon buffet and afternoon refreshments. Group is scheduled to depart from Lubber Run, 300 N. Park Dr., Arlington, Va. at 6:15 a.m. and return at 6:30 p.m. For additional information and reservations, call Arlington Senior Travel at (703) 228-4748.

Wilde Lake High School, 5460 Trumpeter Road, Columbia, Maryland ŸFree Admission Ÿ140+ Exhibitors ŸTimely Seminars & Demonstrations ŸEco-friendly “Living Green” Area

ŸHealth Fair & Flu Shots ŸSilent Benefit Auction ŸAll Day Entertainment ŸCapitol Steps Shows at 10am & 1pm

For more information call 410-313-6410 or visit www.howardcountyaging.org Sponsored by:

CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield, Howard County General Hospital: A Member of Johns Hopkins Medicine, St. Agnes Hospital

Advanced Hearing Centers, Inc., Advanced Radiology, American Radiology Services, Inc., Alta at Regency Crest, Columbia Association, Encore at Turf Valley & Howard County Health Park, Howard County Health Department, The Evergreens at Columbia Town Center, Baltimore Sun Media Group, Generations, Guide to Retirement Living SourceBook, The Beacon, The Business Monthly

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Leisure & Travel

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

Branson, Mo. has something for everyone heart, there are more than 30 thrill rides, live musical performances and shows.

Onstage bonanza Well known for its musical performances — ranging from pop to rock-and-roll, Broadway to country, and gospel to bluegrass — Branson has also become home to world-class comedy, theater magic, acrobatics and religious-themed entertainment.

Many of the theatres offer several shows a day, so in one day you can be thoroughly entertained by the seemingly ageless Paul Revere and the Raiders, the glamour of the musically talented Shoji Tabuchi, and the side-splitting humor of Yakov Smirnoff.

For good old-fashioned fun, take a dinner cruise on the showboat Branson Belle on beautiful Table Rock Lake. Following a three-course dinner, cruisers are treated to a fast-paced show featuring singing, dancing, and the comedy of Todd Oliver and his talking pets.

Or visit the Sight and Sound Theatre for

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE BRANSON CONVENTION AND TOURIST BUREAU

By Tina Calligas At first glance, Branson, Mo., looks like any other small town in the scenic Ozark Mountains. The downtown area features a main street that is lined with quaint shops like Dick’s Oldtime 5 & 10 and the House of 1000 Clocks.

But take a closer look, and you will find one of the most popular family vacation destinations in the country. Billed as the Live Music Capital of the World, with 100+ shows in 50 theaters, the city also boasts museums, an amusement park, eight championship golf courses, three pristine lakes, shopping and nature trails.

Although many believe Branson’s popularity began with country music, it actually started with a cave. In 1894, Marvel Cavern, which is just outside of the city, was purchased by William Henry Lynch.

This geographic wonder became such a popular destination that in 1960, a theme park called Silver Dollar City was built over and around the cave.

The park includes 60 shops that showcase the talents of master glassblowers, basket weavers, potters, blacksmiths and many other craftsmen. For the young at

Branson’s Titanic Museum is housed in a replica of the ill-fated ship. The interactive museum gives visitors a taste of what it would have been like to be a passenger or crew member.

CRUISE FROM BALTIMORE in ‘10/11

See BRANSON, page 51 PHOTO COURTESY OF THE BRANSON CONVENTION AND TOURIST BUREAU

5-Night Bermuda Cruises docking 2 full days at Kings Wharf, Bermuda from Baltimore: Oct. 2, 10, 30; Nov. 13, 2010. Apr. 11 & 30; May 14 & 28; June 11 & 25, 2011. Rates from: $649. per pers dbl

9-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruises San Juan, P.R.; St. Thomas, USVI; Samana, D.R.; Labadee, Haiti (private island beach party). From Baltimore: Oct. 21; Nov. 4, 2010.

Jan. 2; Feb. 19; Mar. 12; Apr. 2, 2011. Rates from: $899. per pers dbl

12-Night Southern Caribbean Labadee, Haiti (private island); Samana, D.R.; San Juan, P.R.; St. Thomas, USVI, St. Marten, Tortola, British Virgin Islands. From Baltimore: Dec. 6 & 27, ‘10; Jan. 17; Feb. 7, 28; Mar. 21; Apr. 11, 2011 • Rates from: $899. per pers dbl

SHUTTLE SERVICE TO PIER IN BALTIMORE Door-to-Door shuttle service from the Washington Metro area to the Cruise Terminal in Baltimore is $59. per pers roundtrip.

Performers in Chun Yi: The Legend of Kung Fu, combine acrobatics and martial arts.

The group entertained at the Beijing Olympics. It is one of the more than 100 different productions, ranging from Broadway to comedy to IMAX, presented in Branson, Mo.

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50

Leisure & Travel

You’ll start feeling better the minute you see how much you save on generic prescriptions.

If you or your family are taking prescription medications, you may want to try generics. Generics are safe and effective, FDA approved, and work the same way that name brands do, but cost up to 80% less. Speak to your CVS Pharmacist to learn more.

Donndra Kee-Pearce, CVS Pharmacist

07658RXM08

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

ride, water ski, play golf or tennis, or go parasailing.

From page 49 Noah, the Musical. This spectacular production retells the Old Testament story and includes a 300-foot wrap around stage, elaborate costumes and live and animatronic animals.

Branson’s newest production has an international flair. Chun Yi: The Legend of Kung Fu combines the ancient martial arts with the agility of Cirque-style acrobatics to produce a dazzling spectacle that has impressed audiences around the world, including spectators at the Beijing Olympics.

Throughout the Branson area, visitors can find outlet malls, unique galleries focused on arts and crafts, boutique and specialty stores, flea markets and antique shops.

The Lake Taneycomo waterfront in the historic downtown area features Branson Landing, a shopper’s paradise anchored

by Bass Pro Shops, with restaurants to suit every palate and a spectacular $7.5 million water fountain that synchronizes light, sound, music and fire.

Larger-than-life museums Within a few-mile radius, visitors can wonder at Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, honor those who served our country at the Veteran’s Memorial Museum, greet life-like celebrity figures at the Hollywood Wax Museum, and revisit childhood memories at the World’s Largest Antique Toy Museum.

Perhaps the most interesting and entertaining is the Titanic Museum. This interactive experience, housed in a replica of the front of the ill-fated ship, allows visitors to become passengers on that tragic voyage.

Be sure to greet Molly and Carter, King Charles Spaniels, who have been added to the museum as mascots to represent the dogs that were onboard the ship when it sank.

Just outside the city you can hike, rock climb, kayak, canoe, fish, bike, horseback

Where to eat and sleep Branson dining options include a wide range of American, Italian, Mexican, Thai, Japanese, Chinese and Mediterranean restaurants.

Bleu Olive Mediterranean Grille & Bar is a jewel. This spacious contemporary restaurant features a diverse menu that includes baby octopus tempura, Prince Edward Island mussels, slow-braised Australian lamb shank and Spanish paella.

For those craving a bit of American fare, try Famous Dave’s BBQ Restaurant in Branson’s Landing. Be sure to ask for a table on the patio with views of Lake Taneycomo.

There is no shortage of area accommodations that will appeal to all tastes and pocketbooks. Chief among these is the Branson Hilton Convention Hotel, which is conveniently located downtown and across from Branson’s Landing. The hotel offers a fitness center, indoor and outdoor pools, and a 24-hour business center. Rates start at $179 a night. Call (417) 336-5400 or go to www.hilton.com.

For those looking for a more natural setting, the award-winning Chateau on the Lake is one of the most popular resorts among tourists. Located on Table Rock Lake, it has its own marina, spa, an award-winning restaurant, tennis courts, nature trails, pool, movie theater and child daycare. Rates start at $159 a night. Call 1-888-333-LAKE (5253) or go to www.chateauonthelakebranson.com.

AirTran is the only airline that flies to Branson from the Washington area.

Flights from Dulles and BWI start at $237 roundtrip in October; they begin at $267 from Reagan National.

For more information about Branson, visit www.explorebranson.com or call 1800-296-0463.

Tina Calligas is editor of The Best of Times, a newspaper for older adults in Shreveport, La.

BEACON BITS

Oct. 16

ART STUDIO TOUR The seventh annual Great Falls Studios Tour will be held Saturday,

Oct. 16 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. This free driving tour gives people the opportunity

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE BRANSON CONVENTION AND TOURIST BUREAU

Branson

51

Leisure & Travel

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

Table Rock Lake is one of three lakes in Branson. The Chateau on the Lake is in the background.

Take an adventure • Ride an elephant • Visit Thailand!

Four times a year, I personally lead small group tours to magnificent Thailand. Stay in great hotels, enjoy tantalizing cuisine, and see Bangkok, tribal villages, temples and palaces, beaches and more.

It’s the trip of a lifetime.

Our tours are flexible and affordable!

Call Lee at (571) 244-4363 to learn more about this incredible adventure. www.h2t3Tours.com

Do you provide a product or service of interest to people over 50? (And today, what business doesn’t?)

to meet 48 artists in their studios and other venues scattered around the village: Watch demonstrations, explore studios and buy art. To download a map and roster of artists and to register to win one of 40 $50 gift certificates, visit www.greatfallsstudios.com.

Oct. 23

PONTOON BOAT TOUR

Reach hundreds of thousands of customers throughout the Greater Washington area by advertising in The

See the Anacostia’s tidal wetlands with Lee Cain, director of envi-

The

OTERS GUIDE INSIDE

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ronmental education programs at the Anacostia Watershed Society (AWS) from a VOL.22, NO.10

Gardens and the AWS. Tour group will meet in the RFK stadium parking lot on Saturday, Oct. 23; the excursion is expected to last from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Deadline to register for the trip is Oct. 20 and maximum capacity on the boat is 20 people. This is a free event, but registration is required. Call (202) 225-1116 or visit www.usbg.gov for complete details.

I N

F O C U S

F O R

More than 200,000 readers

P E O P L E

OV E R

throughout Greater Washington

Third career in fourt h quarter

By Barbara Ruben

For demographic information and advertising rates, call Alan at

(301) 949-9766.

After serving for 20 years in the Maryland General Assembly, Gloria Lawlah thought it might be time to retire at 68.

“I was quite ready to come home and hit the golf balls,” she recalled of what ended up being a very short-lived hiatus from public service.

Just a month later, in February 2007, she was appointed Maryland’s Acting Secretary of Aging — a job made permanent the following month.

Lawlah thought, “I have landed a heck of a job, and just in the nick of time, since I’m in the midst of aging myself.”

As Secretary and head of Maryland’s Department of Aging, Lawlah is working to manage and expand healthcare, housing and other programs as the proportion of older adults in Maryland, as elsewhere across the country, continues to climb rapidly.

“We’re surrounded by our elders,” she said. “We’re surrounded by wisdom.

That’s the way I look at it.”

5 0 OCTOBER 2010

I N S I D E …

PHOTO BY FRANK K LEIN

pontoon boat. The tour is offered as a joint venture of the United States Botanic

LEISURE & TR AVEL

A refuge for both wildlife and tourists on Florida’s Gulf Coast; plus, something for everyone in Branson, Mo., and cruise line contracts that leave you high and dry page 47

The fourth quarter With our steadily increasing longevity, many people’s lives can now be divided into quarters, Lawlah said, the fourth quarter being from 75 to 100 years old.

“The system has to be geared now to take care of the fourth quarter, which didn’t exist years ago. We [thought we] didn’t need to worry about that, because we were all going to be dead,” she said with her customary Maryland Secretary of Aging Gloria Lawlah forthrightness. “Our [support] enjoys gathering her extended family — systems from her 100-year-old mother-in-law to her six grandchildren were not designed for us her home in Temple — in the backyard of to live this long.”

Hills, Md. She and the Department of Aging ing to provide more Much of Lawlah’s work she heads are workways to help older adults now focuses on stay in their homes how to provide the services as they age. this age group Medicaid demonstration project needs and how to prepare helps for the rapid bring “She always was so progressive people out of nursing growth we are facing in in her institutions thinking, its numbers. always saying women should and puts them back into One of the most important be their homes and equal pieces of the communities. to men in all ways. She puzzle, she thinks, is figuring [See “Program shows them always supout how best the way ported me in everything to go home,” in the July Beacon.]

I wanted to do to help people stay in their homes as they and supported me when I wanted to run age. It’s often called “aging in place.” for office.”

Putting theory into practice The goal is to provide “wrap-around Lawlah, who has three One component to helping children and six services in the home, where seniors age grandchildren, [people] feel in place likes to gather her extendis strong family ties, Lawlah comfortable and secure.

If you can keep lieves. be- ed family at her house and in the large That’s why she and her them healthier and keep husband backyard that them in their moved they share with her motherher mother-in-law (now homes, you’re going to 100 years in-law. There cut in half the old) the family to the can home next door to theirs play games or amount of money” it costs. in hang out in the Temple Hills, Md., back rose garden or large “They’re [also] going to in 1997. be much better screened carriage house.

Lawlah praises her mother-in-law, off mentally,” she said, citing a program graduated who “It’s intergenerational fun. from the University of Chicago called Money Follows It certainly the Person. This in 1933, as a great role model.

See LAWLAH, page 46

ARTS & STYLE

Play about theater class mirrors real life; plus, “Cathy” comic strip creator bids farewell, the Embassy Series returns, and Bob Levey talks back page 53

LAW & MONEY k Blue chip stocks are on sale k Free international phone calls

6

FITNESS & HEALTH 18 k Flu shot? Make mine a double k Beware of belly bulge VOLUNTEERS & CAREERS 44 k Promoting community service SPOTLIGHT ON AGING k Newsletter for D.C. seniors

42

PLUS CROSSWORD, BEACON BITS, CLASSIFIEDS & MORE

52

Leisure & Travel

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

Cruise line contracts leave you high & dry Forget Stephen King: If you really want ation subject to the cruise line’s control, scary reading on your next cruise, check you can get a full cash refund or accept an out the cruise line’s contract. alternative voucher offer.

That’s the document that esBut if you decide to cancel tablishes the legal framework because of a deviation due to for what you get — and don’t force majeure (an uncontrolget — from the cruise line. lable, unforeseen event), Lots of supplier contracts some cruise lines assess regare stacked against conular cancellation penalties; sumers, but cruise line conothers are a bit more genertracts are among the worst ofous. fenders I’ve ever seen. AlOnce at sea, the cruise line though each cruise line uses owes you nothing in a deviaTRAVEL TIPS its own contracts, they contion for any reason. And if a

By Ed Perkins form to a general pattern. ship can’t continue, the cruise And although much of the content is line may dump you at an intermediate legalese, a few key points are extremely port, without further compensation. important — points that limit your options Cancellation fees. In general, you lose and make it difficult for you to obtain re- 100 percent if you cancel less than 15 days course in the event of a problem. Here are in advance. Lower-level penalties start to some typical catches, subject to some line- kick in as early as 90 days in advance. You by-line variations: can avoid such penalties by buying either a Prices and fees. The cruise line can in- cancellation waiver from the cruise line crease base rates without prior notice. If (cheaper, but poor coverage) or thirdyou’ve paid in full, you’re exempt from party trip cancellation insurance (more exsuch increases, but not if you’ve just made pensive, but better coverage). a partial deposit. In addition, most cruise Baggage and personal property. Unlines “reserve the right” to pass along gov- less you buy extra insurance, the cruise ernment fees and taxes, however as- line imposes a strict limit on liability for sessed, and impose fuel surcharges, some- damaged, lost or stolen property. This times with a specified maximum. limit can be as low as $50 per traveler, $50 Itinerary changes. In an itinerary devi- per bag or $100 per stateroom regardless

of the number of travelers or bags.

Alcoholic beverages. You may not board with any alcoholic beverages, except for one bottle of wine, and the cruise line can search your baggage. You may buy “duty free” beverages in low-tax ports, but the cruise line holds onto anything you buy and returns it to you just before debarking.

Liability limit. If your cruise does not touch any U.S. port, the cruise line’s liability for death or personal injury is limited by an international convention to about $60,000. And the typical cruise contract exempts the cruise line from “pain and suffering” or “emotional” damages.

The cruise line denies liability for any accidents of subcontractors. Cruise lines typically impose strict time limits for filing any damage suits.

Law and forum. When you cruise outside the United States, the contract may require that any liability must be based on the laws of a foreign country and any action must be in a court of that country — countries with typically far lower settlements than U.S. law.

Even within the United States, most cruise contracts limit any legal action to a

single “forum,” usually Florida or California. Some lines exempt small claims actions from this limit; others don’t.

Also, contracts typically say you can’t become part of any class action. And they typically require that instead of going to court you must submit many disputes to binding arbitration. Taken together, these requirements make it extremely hard for you to pursue legal remedies, no matter how justified.

Enforcement. As I read the literature, some courts have held some of these limits valid; others haven’t. In a serious situation, you obviously need a good lawyer.

But in general, the contracts stack the cards against you.

The upshot is simple: If everything goes well on your cruise, you don’t need to worry. But if anything goes wrong, you’ll have a tough time making it right.

Send e-mail to Ed Perkins at eperkins@mind.net. Perkins’ new book for small business and independent professionals, Business Travel When It’s Your Money, is now available through www.mybusinesstravel.com or www.amazon.com. © 2010 Tribune Media Services, Inc.

BEACON BITS

Oct. 30

NATURE WALK IN DERWOOD

Come and explore an Agricultural History Farm Park with the Seneca Valley Sugarloafers Volksmarch Club on Oct. 30.

Registration for the walk will be held from 8 to 11 a.m. at the park, which is located at 18400 Muncaster Rd., Derwood, Md. The walk is on natural terrain and rough paths, with moderate hills. There are both 10 km and 5 km options.

The walk must be completed by 3 p.m. Questions about the event can be directed to Peg Baloga at (301) 869-0698 or via e-mail at Proxemy2@aol.com.

Oct. 15

VOLUNTEER AT AN ART RECEPTION

The Gallery at IONA Senior Services is looking for volunteer greeters, musicians, servers and photographers to help at the Artists Reception on Friday, Oct. 15 from 4 to 8 p.m. IONA is located at 4125 Albermarle St., N.W. in Washington D.C. Call Lylie Fisher at (202) 895-9425.

Oct. 16+

WALK TO STOP DIABETES

Register to “Step Out” to stop diabetes and participate in the fundraising walk scheduled for Oct. 16, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the G. Richard Pfitzner Stadium, 7 County Complex Ct., Woodbridge, Va. Or volunteer for the walk taking place on Oct. 23, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Washington Nationals Park, 1500 S. Capitol St., S.E., Washington D.C. To register, visit http://main.diabetes.org or call Alicia Geller at (202) 331-8303, x. 4529.

Subscribe by October 29, 2010 and receive

25% special discount for The Beacon readers

and Free “Guide to Jewish Life” New subscribers only! | Reference “Beacon” promo

Oct. 25+

Haven of Northern Virginia will provide free training for individuals interested in providing emotional support to the bereaved.

Sessions will be held on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. from Oct. 25 to November 5 at 4606 Ravensworth Rd., Annandale, Va. Registration required. To register or for more information, call (703) 941-7000 or visit www.havenofnova.org.

$41.34 With MD Sales Tax

$52

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Oct. 27

301-230-2222 x222 circulation@washingtonjewishweek.com www.washingtonjewishweek.com (Click new subscriber discount banner)

BEREAVEMENT TRAINING FOR VOLUNTEERS

JOB TRAINING WORKSHOP

Improve your resume writing, interviewing and networking skills at a free workshop on Wednesday, Oct. 27 at 10:30 a.m. at the Quince Orchard Library, 15831 Quince Orchard Rd. in North Potomac, Md. Call the Jewish Social Service Agency (JSSA) to register for this free workshop at (301) 610-8380.

53

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

Style Arts &

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Cathyâ&#x20AC;? creator Cathy Guisewite retires at 59. See story on page 56.

Studio play about theater mirrors real life Therapy or theater?

Baker sets the story in a multi-purpose room of a community recreation center.

Marty (Jennifer Mendenhall) is the teacher who leads four students â&#x20AC;&#x201D; three older adults and one teenage girl â&#x20AC;&#x201D; through six weeks of exercises designed to help actors â&#x20AC;&#x153;live in the momentâ&#x20AC;? onstage via improved self-awareness and communication.

The exercises resemble group therapy more than what we might think of as acting.

This is the kind of activity that puts the selfabsorption of actors (and would-be thespians) into very sharp relief, and makes one wonder why they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget about all that stuff and just try, you know, acting.

But this is apparently what seems to work for â&#x20AC;&#x153;seriousâ&#x20AC;? actors, even as they often make fun of or bemoan such activities.

The play begins slowly as five people in the darkened classroom lie in a circle, heads together, feet pointed outward.

They begin to count to 10, one person and one number at a time, in random order.

The point is for each individual to be aware of everyone else and not to step over anotherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s counting.

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s apparently a standard acting exercise, based on knowing chuckles from some members of the audience with theater backgrounds. For everyone else, it is a bit mystifying.

But thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the point. The lives of most people we meet seem rather mystifying at first. It is only through continued exposure in a variety of situations that real faces begin to emerge from behind the masks we all wear.

Muse allows the methodical pace of the early scenes to build, but does so slowly and deliberately. Piece by piece, disconnected bits of each characterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life start to form into a recognizable outline, and the pace begins to quicken.

See CIRCLE MIRROR, page 55

PHOTO BY CAROL PRATT

onds the pauses should last. It may be exhausting for the five actors, but it pays off for us in rich character development.

PHOTO BY CAROL PRATT

By Michael Toscano Do you need to be a theater â&#x20AC;&#x153;insiderâ&#x20AC;? to fully appreciate emerging playwright Annie Bakerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s quirky but affecting comedy-with-serious-overtones play Circle Mirror Transformation? Studio Theatre is hoping most audience members will be able to see something of themselves in this story.

Winner of the 2010 Obie Award (offBroadway) for Best New American Play, Circle Mirror Transformation takes us into an amateur acting class in small-town Vermont, where acting exercises highlight the real drama of seemingly mundane lives.

The production also marks the first show under the leadership of new Artistic Director David Muse, who has taken over from Studio founder and longtime leader Joy Zinoman. Muse directs this play with such careful attention to detail that it is remarkable how fresh and spontaneous much of the action seems.

Scenes that appear to be improvisation by the fine ensemble cast are actually intensely timed and calibrated. The playwright has mandated quite specific staging instructions, even including where and how dialogue overlaps and how many sec-

Kathleen McElfresh (top), Jennifer Mendenhall and Harry A. Winters star as members of an acting class in Circle Mirror Transformation at the Studio Theatre.

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54

Arts & Style

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

Join the NSO as the era of Eschenbach begins.

2010–2011 Season

October and November Concerts

Marisol Montalvo

Christian Tetzlaff

Nathalie Stutzmann

Xian Zhang

Gil Shaham

Susanna Mälkki

Christoph Eschenbach, conductor Nathalie Stutzmann, contralto

Christoph Eschenbach, conductor Marisol Montalvo, soprano Yvonne Naef, mezzo-soprano Nikolai Schukoff, tenor John Relyea, bass-baritone The Choral Arts Society of Washington, Norman Scribner, artistic director

MAHLER, Kindertotenlieder MAHLER, Symphony No. 5 Thu., Oct. 14 at 7 p.m. | Fri., Oct. 15* at 8 p.m.

Sat., Oct. 16 at 8 p.m. *AfterWords: Fri., Oct. 15 performance followed by a free discussion with Christoph Eschenbach, Nathalie Stutzmann, and NSO Director of Artistic Planning Nigel Boon.

PINTSCHER, Hérodiade-Fragmente BEETHOVEN, Symphony No. 9 Thu., Sep. 30* at 7 p.m. | Fri., Oct. 1 at 8 p.m.

Sat., Oct. 2 at 8 p.m.

Xian Zhang, conductor Gil Shaham, violin

*AfterWords: Thu., Sep. 30 performance followed by a free discussion with Christoph Eschenbach, Matthias Pintscher, and NSO Director of Artistic Planning Nigel Boon.

DEBUSSY, Prelude to the Afternoon of a Faun PROKOFIEV, Violin Concerto No. 2 STRAVINSKY, Le Chant du rossignol SUND AY BARTÓK, The Miraculous Mandarin–Suite MATIN EE

The Blue Series is sponsored by United Technologies Corporation.

Thu., Nov. 4 at 7 p.m. | Sat., Nov. 6 at 8 p.m.

Sun., Nov. 7 at 1:30 p.m.

Christoph Eschenbach, conductor Christian Tetzlaff, violin BEETHOVEN, Violin Concerto BRUCKNER, Symphony No. 6

FR I DA Y MATIN EE

Thu., Oct. 7* at 7 p.m. | Fri., Oct. 8 at 1:30 p.m.

Sat., Oct. 9 at 8 p.m. *AfterWords: Thu., Oct. 7 performance followed by a free discussion with Christoph Eschenbach, Christian Tetzlaff, and NSO Director of Artistic Planning Nigel Boon.

Susanna Mälkki, conductor Garrick Ohlsson, piano LINDBERG, Parada MAHLER, Symphony No. 10–Adagio BEETHOVEN, Piano Concerto No. 5 “Emperor” Thu., Nov. 18* at 7 p.m. | Fri., Nov. 19 at 8 p.m.

Sat., Nov. 20 at 8 p.m. *AfterWords: Thu., Nov. 18 performance followed by a free discussion with Susanna Mälkki, Garrick Ohlsson, and NSO Director of Artistic Planning Nigel Boon.

The Blue Series is sponsored by United Technologies Corporation.

Kennedy Center Concert Hall

Tickets from $20 at the Box Office or charge by phone (202) 467-4600 Order online at kennedy-center.org | Groups (202) 416-8400 | TTY (202) 416-8524 General Dynamics is the proud sponsor of the National Symphony Orchestra Classical Season.

The Beacon Newspaper is the proud media partner of the NSO.

The Kennedy Center welcomes patrons with disabilities.

Arts & Style

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

Circle Mirror From page 53 In between six separate classes, characters interact directly with each other. By the end of the hour-and-50-minute play (there’s no intermission), the students have connected to each other and we have connected to them. The humor is character-driven and based in the reality of the performances, rather than punch lines or comic situations.

Strong ensemble cast The lives of these people are fairly ordinary. Marty the teacher is well-intentioned, and local stage veteran Mendenhall pumps her full of warmth.

She is joined by another local favorite, Harry A. Winter, as Marty’s husband James, who is also one of the students.

Winter skillfully allows us to see glimpses of trouble behind the genial façade, adding depth to both his work and Mendenhall’s.

Broadway veteran Jeff Talbott is Shultz, a recent divorcee whose insecurities are evident in every awkward attempt at bonhomie and in each forced smile.

New to town from New York is Kathleen McElfresh, who plays Theresa, a former

New York actress who has washed up in Vermont. McElfresh layers in damaged selfesteem just below her surface enthusiasm and flirtatiousness, making it seem almost inevitable she will collide with Shultz, the relationship-damaged, newly single guy.

This is a strong ensemble effort, but almost stealing the show is Mackenzie Meehan in her Washington debut in the role of Lauren, a sullen, awkward teen. Meehan’s hunched, stiff body language says more about Lauren’s introverted nature than mere dialogue might express.

So it’s all the more explosive when Lauren finally speaks for the audience by asking, in sheer exasperation, “When are we going to do some real acting?”

Debra Booth’s intricately detailed rec center set, with its polished hardwood gym floor and floor-to-ceiling dance mirror, provides considerable atmospheric realism, supporting the work of the playwright and cast.

The audience encircles three quarters of the thrust stage, with the feet of frontrow patrons right on the set’s floor. That draws us into the world Baker has created, as if we in the audience are participants in the class. The sense that we are observing real life becomes palpable.

The play achieves poignancy in its fondness and compassion for the characters, who are hardly unusual or larger than life.

Muse and his cast provide sincere portraits of the drama that can be found in all our lives, and it’s a striking kick-off to Studio’s season and to Muse’s tenure.

Circle Mirror Transformation continues through at least Oct. 17 at Studio Theatre’s Mead Theatre, located at 1501 14th Street, N.W., Washington, DC. Evening performances: Wednesday through Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 7 p.m. Matinees: Saturday and Sunday at 2 p.m. There is a special

55

Tuesday performance on Oct. 12 at 8 p.m.

Ticket prices: $35 to $65, with a $5 discount for those 62+ and military personnel (except Saturday evenings). All performances are fully accessible for patrons with special needs, including an FM listening system. Call for a schedule of sign-interpreted performances. Accessible seats are available by reservation.

For tickets, call (202) 332-3300; TTY: (202) 667-8436. For more information, visit www.studiotheatre.org.

Michael Toscano is the Beacon’s theater critic.

BEACON BITS

Oct. 18

A MAGICAL PERFORMANCE Peter Samuelson brings his off-Broadway magic to Washington’s

National Theater, 1321 Pennsylvania Ave., N.W. on Monday, Oct. 18, with performances at 6 and 7:30 p.m. Free, but tickets required. The tickets are distributed a half-hour prior to the show on a first-come, first-served basis (one ticket per person in line). For more information, visit www.nationaltheatre.org or call (202) 783-3372.

Oct. 20+

ARTWORK FOR DAY OF THE DEAD HOLIDAY The Jenkins Community Gallery will display a Day of the Dead altar, from Oct. 20 through Nov. 7. The gallery is in the lower level of the

Arlington Arts Center, 3550 Wilson Blvd., Arlington, Va. The new hours are

BEACON BITS

Wednesday through Friday, 1 to 7 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, 12 to 5 p.m. Admission

Oct. 10

is free. To learn more, go to www.arlingtonartscenter.org or call (703) 248-6800.

FLUTE AND HARP CONCERT Beau Soir Ensemble, a flute and harp duo, will be performing a

program of chamber music in the Rockville Mansion Conservatory on Sunday, Oct. 10 at 2 p.m. This free performance is presented as part of the Sunday Afternoon Concert Series at Rockville Civic Center Park, 603 Edmonston Dr., Rockville, Md. For information, call (240) 314-8682.

Oct. 15+

QUILTERS SHOW The biennial show, “Colors of Our World” will exhibit more than 200 quilts by Nimble Fingers Quilters, a guild based in

Montgomery County. The show, to be held Friday, Oct. 15, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday, Oct. 16, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., is participating in the Alzheimer’s Art Quilt Initiative, a national effort to raise awareness and fund research for a cure. The show will be at the Universities at Shady Grove, Bldg 2 at 9630 Gudelsky Dr., Rockville, Md. Admission is $6; free for children under 12. Visit www.nimblefingers.org for more information.

Boy, how that takes me back!

Book singer Adelaide Ruble and pianist Rick Eldridge for your party or community as a cabaret duet, or as a dance combo with drums and sax.

Husband-and-wife team, Adelaide Ruble and Rick Eldridge, perform elegant standards from the Swing Era and Sinatra's glory days

“Adelaide has a warm alto voice...a promising recording artist.”

– All Music Guide

“I was very pleased and impressed by Rick's piano playing.”

– Dave Brubeck

For more information, or to book (703) 517-3710 rick.eldridge@yahoo.com

Hear them perform at the Beacon’s InfoExpo, or search keyword “Adelaide Ruble” on YouTube, iTunes, CDBaby

56

Arts & Style

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

‘Cathy’ comic strip creator bids farewell space in so many papers for so long. This career has been a miracle — it let me turn every anxiety into art, be paid for it, and connect in such a deep way with millions of other women.

But after almost 34 years of meeting newspaper deadlines, I’m facing personal deadlines that are simply exceeding my ability to procrastinate any longer: a daughter who’s starting her last year of high school, who I want to be able to be there for completely while I still get a teeny vote…beloved parents I want to visit more often…and a biological clock that’s hitting 60 and panicking about doing everything else in life I haven’t had time to do yet.

How did the strip come about?

CG: My career is the triumph of the pushy mother.

In 1976, at the height of the Women’s

Movement, I was feeling the full confusion of succeeding at the “new” dream of having a fabulous career in advertising, but failing at the “old” dream of having a relationship. I sent little stick-figure sum-ups of my frustrations home with letters to my parents.

My mother — who’d said everything I touched since birth was “good enough to be published” — insisted these new scribbles could be the start of a comic strip. When I refused, she marched to the library, researched comic strip syndicates, and typed a list of who I should approach.

It was only when she finally threatened to send the work herself with a “cover note from Mom” that I sent a package to Universal Press Syndicate, the company at the top of her list.

Instead of the rejection letter I was plan-

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PHOTO COURTESY OF UNIVERSAL UCLICK

The comic strip “Cathy,” which has chronicled the life, frustrations and swimsuit season meltdowns of its namesake for more than 30 years, is coming to an end.

(Look for our last “Cathy” comics on page 60.)

Cathy Guisewite, 59, the strip’s creator, said that deciding to end the comic strip was “excruciating.” The comic has won several awards, including a 1992 National Cartoonists Society’s Reuben Award and an Emmy Award for Outstanding Animated Program in 1987, and at its height appeared in 1,400 papers.

The comic strip’s syndicator Universal Uclick talked with Guisewite about her career.

Why have you decided to retire “Cathy” now?

CG: I’ve loved doing the “Cathy” comic strip and feel so honored to have had my

Cathy Guisewite is ending her largely autobiographical “Cathy” comic strip after almost 34 years.

ning on, they sent me a contract. They said they loved the emotional honesty of my submission, and that they were confident I’d learn how to draw if I had to do it 365 days a year.

When you started, could you imagine “Cathy” becoming such a huge hit?

CG: The first day that “Cathy” ran, I spent most of the day hiding in the ladies room of the advertising agency in Detroit where I worked, praying that no one would read the newspaper.

Even though I’d been frantically working on learning how to write and draw a comic strip every night and weekend for seven months, I hadn’t told anyone except my immediate family that I was doing it.

The first strips were so personal and vulnerable at a time when women were celebrating such new confidence and empowerment. I thought I was the only woman in the world who came home from a day in her brilliant career and ate a pint of ice cream because Mr. Wrong didn’t call.

I couldn’t believe I’d ever shown my drawings to anyone, let alone that they were being published. Couldn’t imagine that anyone felt the same way. Could never, ever, have comprehended that “Cathy” would have so many biologically unrelated, deeply connected “sisters.”

How much of the strip throughout the years has been autobiographical?

CG: Pretty much, the more humiliating the admission, the more autobiographical it was.

The seven different sizes of jeans in one closet…the three-year, $75/month membership to the gym that I went to twice…the begging my mother to return the delusional New Year’s Eve outfit because I couldn’t face the saleslady again: all me. The visions of total organization, efficiency and clarity: not so much.

I didn’t want to call the strip “Cathy” because I wanted to at least get to pretend I wasn’t writing about myself. Universal Press thought that people would relate to it more personally if they saw the main character and I shared a name.

See CATHY, page 59

Arts & Style

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

57

Singer honored for his musical diplomacy

Jerome Barry

the Austrian Embassy playing Beethoven sonatas.

Other concerts will take place at the ambassadorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; residences or embassies, including those for Australia, Lithuania, Luxemburg, Germany, Hungary, Iceland, Armenia, Belgium and Poland.

Staying vocally nimble In addition to his work for the Embassy Series, Barry, a native of Boston who started formal instruction at the age of 12, still sings professionally and maintains a rigorous practice schedule. Barry, who said heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in his late 60s, believes that â&#x20AC;&#x153;if you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t use it, you lose it.â&#x20AC;?

He even uses a peak flow meter (a small hand-held device used to measure a personâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ability to breathe out air) to monitor the strength of his breath, and is proud that his rate is twice the normal range.

Asked what his secret is for staying fit, Barry said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think the real secret is keeping occupied with something that really uses your mind but also your body.â&#x20AC;?

The idea of retiring is a foreign concept to Barry, who thrives on learning. He laughed as he described walking around conjugating verbs in 10 languages and memorizing music as regular mental exercises. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I really think itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important to concentrate on quality,â&#x20AC;? Barry said adding, â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is what America needs right now, thinking at a high level to achieve excellence, not just to get by, and it takes work.â&#x20AC;?

In recognition for his work, on Oct. 8 Barry will receive the third annual Lolo Sarnoff Award for Outstanding Vision and Creativity. The award is named after the founder of the nonprofit Arts for the Aging, which provides outreach programs to older adults for health improvement and life enhancement through the arts. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It represents all the elements in life that I hold dear,â&#x20AC;? said Barry about the honor. One of the reasons this award means so much to him is because of his admiration and respect for Sarnoff. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 96 years old, and sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s absolutely amazing, and sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s constantly busy with creative things,â&#x20AC;? Barry said. The way that Barry described Sarnoff as â&#x20AC;&#x153;trying to

LECTURE ON PAUL GAUGUIN

Irina Stotland, Ph.D. candidate at Bryn Mawr College, will offer her analysis on the self-portraits of Gauguin at the Kreeger Museum, 2401 Foxhall Rd., N.W., Washington D.C. on Thursday, Oct. 21 at 6:30 p.m. Individual tickets are $10, students and seniors (65+) are $7, free for museum members. Call (202) 337-3050 or visit www.kreegermuseum.org for more information.

Oct. 22

The D.C. Youth Orchestra performs at the Austrian Embassy in a program presented by the Embassy Series.

make the world a better place to live in and trying to bring more understandingâ&#x20AC;? is very similar to his own mission.

Barry said itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gratifying to be recognized. â&#x20AC;&#x153;You just wonder what kind of impact youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re making, but when somebody gives you an award like this, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sort of a milestone in your life, a point of departure [for thinking], â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Oh, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got this, and from

here I can proceed with a little bit more confidence and passion for what I do.â&#x20AC;?

To learn more, or to purchase tickets for the Embassy Series, visit www.embassyseries.org or call (202) 625-2361. For more information about the Arts for the Aging 22nd Anniversary Benefit Gala, where Barry will perform, visit www.aftaarts.org or call (301) 718-4990.

Arts award

BEACON BITS

Oct. 21

PHOTO COURTESY OF JEROME BARRY

By Delia Sava Jerome Barry has performed with the Baltimore and National Symphonies, with the Boston Pops and at Carnegie Hall. The baritone has lived in Germany, Italy and Israel, where he spent four years with Israelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s National Opera. He speaks 10 languages and can sing in 27.

So when he moved back to the States, Barry felt it was natural to gravitate toward the international community. In 1994, he founded an annual series of concerts held at many of Washingtonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s embassies.

Now in its 17th year, the Embassy Series serves as a kind of musical diplomacy to help promote understanding among people of many different cultures, he said.

After each performance there is a reception, and guests have an opportunity to enjoy the food of the featured country as well as to meet embassy officials.

Barry, who lives in Northwest Washington, stressed that in his dealings with the embassies and artists, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no politics, even with Cuba, not a word.â&#x20AC;?

The current season will offer about 25 concerts, down from a high of 42 in the past. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I felt I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have much of a life because itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a lot of work,â&#x20AC;? Barry said. By eliminating duplicate performances, the series has consistently sold out.

The Embassy Series will hold its first concert of the season on Oct. 1 at the Iraqi Cultural Center. Performing will be Safaafir, an ensemble of three Iraqi musicians on traditional instruments.

On Oct. 17, the second concert of the season will feature pianist Till Fellner at

CLOSING RECEPTION FOR ARTIST

The public is invited to the Workhouse Arts Center on Friday, October 22 from 7 to 9 p.m., for a free reception. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in honor of the exhibition of internationally renowned master potter, Val Cushing. The event at the center, which is located at 9601 Ox Rd., Lorton, Va., will feature a slide presentation and talk by Cushing. For more information, visit www.workhousearts.org or call (703) 584-2900.

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58

Arts & Style

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

In the crosshairs while in the crosswalk The green light clicked on. So did the “Better hurry up, Grandpa,” he said. white WALK sign. I started to amble I’m nobody’s Grandpa, but I didn’t bothacross the intersection. er to correct him. If I hadn’t I’ve been walking for quite finished crossing, I would some time now, and I’ve gotten have been in danger of inquite good at it, believe me. stant hamburger-dom from Right-left-right-left. Swing the his Lexus, the next guy’s arms a little. Breathe. Keep the Cherokee and many others. pace you always keep.

So I broke into a half-trot, Except maybe the termites got to the other side safely, are beginning to munch on me. stood there and began to I was about two-thirds of the compose a reply. way across when the orange It went something like this: DON’T WALK sign began to HOW I SEE IT “Dear Young Intolerant flash. As I hurried to finish my By Bob Levey Fool Driving That Lexus: appointed rounds, a young guy “I always promised myself behind the wheel of a stopped Lexus rolled two things. down his window and cut me to the quick.

“One, when talking to someone 40 years

younger, I would never begin a sentence by saying, ‘When I was your age….’

“Two, I would always keep my sense of humor.

“You, dear sir, have caused me to abandon both promises.

“When I was your age, I would never insult an older person — even if I felt like doing it — because I knew that some fine day, I’d be old, too.

“I might say to an older person who was not crossing the street as quickly as I might like: ‘Don’t worry. I won’t hit you.

Take your time.’

“Or I might say: ‘Sure is hot today, isn’t it?’

“Or I might say: ‘More power to you, sir.

Keep up that walking. Aerobics are good for the soul.’

“The older person might take any of these comments as barely concealed snideness. Or as irony. Or as passive-aggressiveness. But that would be his take, not my intention.

“Of course, as a motorist, I would wish that the road were always clear when my green came on. But would it kill me to wait an extra beat for an older person to finish crossing? Highly doubtful.

“You, dear sir, have violated Levey’s First Rule of Human Personal Dynamics.

My grandmother (who used to cross the street very briskly in her old age, thank you very much) rendered that rule as, ‘If you can’t say something nice, don’t say anything.’ My version: ‘If you can’t say something nice, please recognize that saying something toxic will make any situation twice as bad.’

“What if you had told me to hurry up, Grandpa, and I’d gotten frosted and had stood there in the middle of the street so I could yell at you? You’d have been delayed far longer than you would have been if you’d silently let me finish crossing.

“I have no wish to cause you pain, inconvenience or annoyance. But please remember that when I am crossing the street, I’m operating under less than one horsepower.

You and your Lexus command about 175.

Have mercy on your less-energized fellow man. Try to understand that me on foot and you behind the wheel isn’t a fair fight.

“You know what you’ve accomplished with your comment, my fine-feathered Lexus-driving friend? You have steeled my resolve. The next time I’m crossing the street, and some genius thinks he can actually save three-tenths of a second by making a snide comment to me, I will not break into a half-trot. I will take my sweet time. I will defy him to run me over. I will show him the error of his ways.

“And I might start carrying around photocopies of one of the more interesting stories to hit the newspapers in recent weeks.

“New York City, where hustle was invented and bustle was perfected, has just retimed all the WALK signs in midtown Manhattan to cater to older people. They (and every other pedestrian) will now get an additional four seconds to cross most streets.

“If that mechanism had been in place at Better Hurry Up Corner, I wouldn’t be writing this column, dear sir. Maybe such technology will be everywhere some day.

But let’s not rely on machines and municipal budgets to save you (and me) from your bad manners and bad judgment.

“Own up. Fess up. And clean up your act.

“We white-hairs are pedaling as fast as we can. We may not be trying for a place on the Olympic street-crossing team. But at least we’re still doing the good old rightleft-right-left, which was more than you could say on the morning in question.

“My grandmother used to cite a second rule, dear sir. My cousins and I would roll our eyes because she would recite it all the time. But the older I get, the more I realized that she was right.

“It was a rule made of gold.

“Yours in deeper understanding, deeper huffing and deeper puffing, “Bob.” Bob Levey is a national award-winning columnist

BEACON BITS

Oct. 23

ARENA STAGE RETURNS TO SOUTHWEST The public is invited to celebrate as Arena Stage officially opens

at the Mead Center for American Theater on Saturday, October 23. The return to Southwest D.C. is being celebrated throughout the building, located at 1101 Sixth St, S.W., Washington D.C., with a day full of free events, including performances by Broadway and Tony award-winning artists and presentations by local arts groups. Tickets for this free event will be available online starting Oct. 8; visit www.arenastage.org for a full schedule.

Oct. 27

ART TOUR FOR THE VISUALLY IMPAIRED The Prevention of Blindness Society of Metropolitan Washington is sponsoring a free descriptive art tour for people with vision

impairment on Wednesday, October 27 from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Participants will meet at the second floor rotunda of the National Gallery of Art, West Building, located at 401 Constitution Ave., N.W., Washington D.C. For wheelchairs and assistance, call (202) 737-4215 by October 20.

Arts & Style

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

From page 56 In keeping with the complete lack of decision-making skills that fueled my whole career, the strip stayed “Cathy” because I couldn’t decide on another name in time.

How do you go about creating the strip on a daily basis? What is your creative process like?

CG: My creative process has almost always started with me dumping my purse out on my desk, praying I’d written some partial joke on a fat-free energy bar wrapper, and concluded with my deadline just hours away and me desperately calling my sister, Mickey, to ask if she thought any other woman ever experienced what I was writing about, or if it was just something women in our family did. Mickey’s the only person on earth I ever tried strips out on before they were published.

I’ve never once had that experience of just being out and about and having fabulous ideas flood into my brain. I can only write if I’m sitting in a room completely alone, with my phone set to speed-dial my sister.

Who are your influences?

CG: I never would have created “Cathy” if I hadn’t grown up reading “Peanuts.” It never would have occurred to me to work out my anxieties and insecurities in four little illustrated boxes. Charles Schulz not only opened the door for my whole career, but saved me thousands and thousands of dollars in therapy.

What has been your favorite part of doing the strip?

CG: I’ve loved creating something that helps women feel they’re not alone. I’ve loved creating something that men will never completely understand.

I’ve loved getting to connect with women where we live and aren’t usually seen: weeping on the floor of the swimsuit dressing room...planted in front of the

freezer at 2 a.m. …stuck behind the desk in the fabulous power suit we couldn’t zip after lunch…standing in the ladies room rehearsing “date” conversations or trying to blow dry the part of the outfit that just fell in the toilet…and that secret special place in our brains that we go to where we can believe, just for a little bit, that the right new pair of sparkly, stiletto sandals will fix everything.

Looking forward, what are you hoping to do with your free time?

CG: For almost 34 years I’ve dealt with every frustration by writing a comic strip about it. So I imagine for quite awhile there will be a little trail of crumpled-up drawings following me wherever I go.

Besides finally being available 24/7 to hover over my 18-year-old daughter and parents and drive them insane with my love, attention and opinions, I want to pursue my lifelong goal of cleaning out the trunk of my car.

Most of my huge fantasies at this age in-

volve the storage room: re-packaging the last 60 years into neat little plastic boxes...labeling and backing up five crates of miscellaneous family videos…all 45,000,000 digital and non-digital photos

edited, organized and popped into pretty albums.

When I even think about it, I start seeing the words on the page. I know my next creative project isn’t far behind.

BEACON BITS

Ongoing

WERE YOU A CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL PATIENT? Children’s National Medical Center is looking for patients who

were treated in the 1920s, 30s and 40s to participate in a video documentary marking the hospital’s 140th anniversary. Contact Susan Muma at (202) 4764223 or history@cnmc.org.

MEDIEVAL GARDENS ILLUMINATED

Oct. 17

Kandy Phillips, artist and illuminator will journey back to the Middle Ages to discuss the important role of flowers and plants in

producing an illuminated manuscript page. Registration is required for this free lecture on Sunday, Oct. 17 from 2 to 3 p.m. at the United States Botanic Garden, 245 First St., S.W. Visit www.usbg.gov or call (202) 225-1116.

The Kennedy Center welcomes patrons with disabilities.

Bring Your Group to the Kennedy Center for Entertainment on a Grand Scale!

B U Y YO U R G R O U P T I C K E T S N O W. . .

2 0 0 9 B R O A D WAY C O M PA N Y I N H A I R . P H O T O B Y J O A N M A R C U S

HAIR

The Public Theater’s new Tony®-winning production of HAIR is an electric celebration on stage! This exuberant musical about a group of young Americans searching for peace and love in a turbulent time has struck a resonant chord with audiences young and old. HAIR features an extraordinary cast and unforgettable songs, including “Aquarius,” “Let the Sun Shine In,” “Good Morning, Starshine” and “Easy To Be Hard.” Its relevance is undeniable. Its energy is unbridled. Its truth is unwavering. It’s HAIR, and it’s time. Note: This performance contains strong language, mature content, and brief nudity.

Oct. 26–Nov. 21 ✽ Opera House

The Suzanne Farrell Ballet Two programs of mixed repertory to music played by the Kennedy Center Opera House Orchestra.

Program A: La Source (Balanchine/Delibes), Sonate No. 5 (Béjart/Bach), In Memory Of… (Robbins/Berg).

Program B: La Sonnambula (Balanchine/Rieti), Monumentum Pro Gesualdo (Balanchine/Stravinsky), Movements for Piano and Orchestra (Balanchine/ Stravinsky), Eight by Adler (Mejia/Adler).

PHOTO BY CAROL PRATT

Cathy

59

Nov. 17–21 ✽ Eisenhower Theater THE SUZANNE FARRELL BALLET

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CHRISTINE ROCAS AND ALEXIS POLITO IN THE NUTCRACKER.

The Joffrey Ballet

The Nutcracker The Joffrey Ballet dancers return to perform Gerald Arpino’s “dazzling” (The Chicago Sun-Times) version of Tchaikovsky’s family classic. Featuring charming Victorian scenery and costumes, Gerald Arpino’s waltzes for the Snowflakes and Flowers, and dozens of dancing and singing children, Robert Joffrey’s staging beams brightly from beginning to end.

Nov. 24 & 26–28 ✽ Opera House

Contact the Group Sales Office

(202) 416-8400

DAVID PITT DE BECQUE CUSACK AS IN SOUTH P

SINGER AS EMILE AND CARMEN NELLIE FORBUSH ACIFIC.

Based on James Michener’s Pulitzer Prize– winning novel, South Pacific is a window into the excitement and hardships of the 1940s. Directed by 2008 Tony Award® winner Bartlett Sher, this classic is reinvented by Lincoln Center Theater to be a musical that retains all the fun and weight of the original. Called “The best revival of Rodgers & Hammerstein in a generation!” by the Washington Post, South Pacific includes popular songs such as “Some Enchanted Evening,” “I’m Gonna Wash That Man Right Outa My Hair,” and “There is Nothin’ Like a Dame.”

Dec. 14–Jan. 16 ✽ Opera House

Musical Theater is made possible through the generosity of The Adrienne Arsht Musical Theater Fund.

The Kennedy Center Ballet Season is sponsored by Altria Group.

Additional support is provided by Elizabeth and Michael Kojaian.

Generous support for The Suzanne Farrell Ballet is provided by The Shen Family Foundation and Emily Williams Kelly.

Major support is provided by the Monica and Hermen Greenberg Foundation and The Suzanne Farrell Ballet Advancement Committee.

Toll free (800) 444-1324, TTY (202) 416-8410 Visit our Web site at kennedy-center.org/groupsales

60

Arts & Style

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

BEACON BITS

CATHY By Cathy Guisewite

Oct. 22

GODDESS DIARIES Attend a celebration

of women’s lives at the River Road Unitarian Universalist Congregation on Friday, Oct 22 at 7:30 p.m. In The Goddess Diaries, women from ages 12 to 70, accompanied by live musicians, will share monologues they’ve written about their life experiences. A dessert reception will follow. Tickets are $10 each ($5 for students) and can be purchased in advance or at the door. The proceeds will be donated to Courtney’s House, a group home for sex trafficked girls and women. The performance will be held at 6301 River Rd.,, Bethesda, Md. For more information, see www.rruuc.org or call (301) 229-0400.

Oct. 12

PREVENTING FALLS The Prevention of Blindness Society will

host a free program called “Avoiding Falls by Adapting Your Home” that includes a discussion, video presentation and complimentary lunch on Tuesday, Oct. 12 at 11 a.m. It will be held at the Washington Hospital Center Eye Clinic, 110 Irving St., N.W., Washington, D.C. Call (202) 877-6081 to reserve your spot.

s a ft! e ak gi M eat gr

ONE BIG HAPPY By Rick Detorie

Beacon The

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F O R

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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 below.

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Caregivers

For Sale/Rent: Real Estate

For Sale/Rent: Real Estate

COLLEGE GRAD, NURSING STUDENT and licensed CNA with several years geriatric experience seeks full-time overnight position caring for your loved ones. Very pet-friendly, with own transportation and sterling references. If interested, please call Jacqueline at 301-787-3555.

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ACTORS/MOVIE EXTRAS - $150-$300/Day depending on job. No experience. All looks needed. 1-800-281-5185-A103.

PROBLEM WITH YOUR PC OR NETWORK? Computer Systems Engineer will come to you with help. HOME. BUSINESS. Call: D. Guisset at 301-642-4526.

AIRLINES ARE HIRING: Train for high paying Aviation Maintenance Career. FAA approved program. Financial aid if qualified Housing available. Call Aviation Institute of Maintenance. 866-453-6204.

NEW COMPUTER GUARANTEED and FREE LCD TV with paid purchase!!! No credit check up or $3000 credit limit. Smallest weekly payments available! Call Now 1-866-288-2040.

GREAT PAYING... Frac Sand Hauling Work in Texas. Need Big Rig, Pneumatic Trailer & Blower. 817-769-7621.

MYSTERY SHOPPERS! Earn up to $150 daily.

Get paid to shop pt/ft. Call now 800-690-1272.

THE JOB FOR YOU! $500 Sign-on-bonus.

Travel the US with our young minded enthusiastic business group. Cash and bonuses daily.

Call Shawn 800-716-0048 today.

Entertainment KARAOKE BY TWIST AND SHOUT STUDIO. Don’t just have a birthday party or private event. Have a “Really Fun” birthday or event.

Let me bring the fun to you. I do a mix of music from any era. Plus, a large selection of karaoke and DJ music for everyone. Call Twist at 301699-0660. www.twistandshoutstudio.com.

Caregivers

DJ FOR SENIORS Oldies & Goldies, all danceable. No party too small. Very Reasonable.

Love to do small birthday parties. 301-437-6888.

CHEVY CHASE HOME CARE – reliable certified caregivers at time of illness, infirmity, loneliness. Personal assistance, ALL AGES, 4- to 24-hour shifts, homes, hospitals, nursing homes.

MD, DC, No. VA. Tel.: 202-374-1240. www.ChChHomecare.com.

PRIME TIME GROUP – October 20, 2010. 50+ group. 11:00 a.m. – “The Little Maid of History”; 12 noon – Luncheon ($6); 1:00 p.m. – Anthony Hyatt. St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, 4900 Connecticut Ave., NW, Washington, DC. RSVP to church office: 202-966-5489.

LOVING HOME CARE “Care you can trust and afford.” Licensed, bonded, insured. Companionship, hygiene supervision, meal preparation, housekeeping, errands, shopping, doctor’s appointments, etc. Loving, dependable caregivers for Live-In/Out, FT/PT. Call for your FREE consultation: 301-490-1146. www.lovinghomecare.org.

DRAMA WORKSHOP – October 12, 2010 – November 19, 2010. 11:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m. St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, 4900 Connecticut Ave. Washington, DC. 50+ age group. Six week interactive workshop – participatory; reading and discussions.

Led by Montgomery County Seniors’ Theatre. $25 for six sessions or $5 per session. Light lunch to follow. Call 202-966-5489 for more information.

SENIOR CAREGIVER. Recommendations from current and past clients. Available weekends (live-in or commute) and Wednesdays and Thursdays (commute only). Prefer Virginia. Call Roseann 703-424-4457.

QUTECARE HOUSEHOLD STAFFING SERVICES Dependable and attentive domestic service solutions. *Senior caregivers/companions *Housekeepers *Nannies *Personal assistants *Pet/House sitters. No placement fees, carefully screened personnel. We handle payroll so you can relax. 301-217-0024. www.qutecare.com.

ROMANTIC PIANO FOR SENIORS. Impassioned renditions of classy American music: Porter, Kern, Mercer, show tunes, movie themes.

For parties in homes, hotels, restaurants, country clubs. Call Vincent Franco, 703-525-4067.

For Sale/Rent: Real Estate LEISURE WORLD® - $134,000. 2 BR, 2 FB “F” model in the “Greens”. Enclosed balcony. 1115 sq ft. Stan Moffson, Weichert, Realtors 301-928-3463.

ANSWERS TO SCRABBLE

ANSWERS TO CROSSWORD C A S T

R I P E

H E U A B R L I N B E D

N O R M A

From page 62.

E R I N

S E T T E A R R R R O E W A S P M I D T S H L

T R I N O P I T S L E S B R O I R N I G E N T

I N T L C A P F E T T E R

G O O D

O P T I O O N P A N R O T H

R E H E A T

K L E P W I T O N O R D E Y

U S G A A T U B E W I N D S L G E T M E A L E N T R O T S P O L O E E O N R O S E S A R C L U B W H E R E H I N G E O D D E R

ABSOLUTELY MUST SEE! Beautifully renovated 3BR, 2 1/2 BA, 1530 sq. ft. Condo @ 3330 N. Leisure World Blvd. Fabulous new kitchen with SS appliances, cherry cabinets, granite, & window with a view! Large enclosed balcony, a garage space! More! Call Nancy Einwaechter & see this fabulous unit. $359,000. 301-460-6976.

Weichert Realtors, 301-681-0550.

LOOKING TO TAKE THE LEAP? I’ll take you on a tour of the community, show you floor plans, discuss campus amenities, & offer how to best coordinate your move. I will preview units & contact you with a match. I also offer exceptional service selling your home. I’m a Seniors Specialist, Buyer Broker, Top 1% of Agents Nationwide, and a Leisure World resident! You can see my current listings on page 40. Contact me: 301-580-5556, SueHeyman@aol.com, www.SueHeyman.com, Weichert, Realtors.

LEISURE WORLD® - $113,000. 2 BR 2 FB “Warfield” model. New appliances and AC, enclosed patio. Move in condition.1043 sq ft. Stan Moffson, Weichert, Realtors, 301-928-3463.

LEISURE WORLD® - $109,900. 2BR 1FB 2HB “Berkeley” townhouse. End unit. Patio with nice view. 1600 sq ft. Stan Moffson, Weichert, Realtors, 301-928-3463.

LEISURE WORLD® - $209,500. 2 BR 2 FB “E” model in Villa Cortese, fresh paint, table space kitchen with window, close to elevator.

1350 sq ft. Stan Moffson, Weichert, Realtors,301-928-3463.

LEISURE WORLD® - $229,000. 3 BR 2FB 1 HB, “N” model with GARAGE + storage room.

Needs work, but well worth the effort. 1615 sq ft.. Stan Moffson, Weichert, Realtors 301-9283463.

LEISURE WORLD® - $255,500. 2BR 2FB “R” model in “Fairways” with GARAGE, new paint and appliances. Golf course view. 1420 sq ft, Stan Moffson, Weichert, Realtors 301-928-3463.

LEISURE WORLD® - $119,500. 2 BR 1 FB “Hampton” model with access to Broadwalk.

Wood floors, upgraded carpet, recent updates.

1200 sq ft. Stan Moffson, Weichert Realtors, 301928-3463.

LEISURE WORLD® - $109,900. 2BR 2FB “Warfield” model loaded with extras, including new AC and hot water tank. Glass Enclosed patio with great view. 1043 sq ft, Stan Moffson, Weichert, Realtors 301-928-3463.

LEISURE WORLD® - $109,000. 2BR 2FB “Warfield” on first floor. Enclosed patio, table space kitchen, extra storage, separate laundry.

1116 sq ft. Stan Moffson, Weichert, Realtors 301-928-3463

LEISURE WORLD® - RENTAL - $1400. 2 BR 2 FB “N” model in Turnberry Courts. Garage space included. Top floor with table space kitchen. 1042 sq ft. Stan Moffson, Weichert, Realtors 301-928-3463.

LEISURE WORLD® - $112,000. 2 BR 2 FB “E” model in the “Greens”. Table space kitchen, view of trees, extra storage. 980 sq ft. ALSO FOR RENT - $1200. Stan Moffson, Weichert, Realtors 301-928-3463.

GAITHERSBURG/MONTGOMERY VILLAGE Wonderful one level condo, 2 bedrooms, 2 full baths, gourmet kitchen, wrap-around porch that faces the woods for privacy, one car garage, wheelchair friendly. Must be 62+ or disabled.

Call Linda 301 367-8891.

LEISURE WORLD® - $119,000. 2BR 1 FB 2 HB “Berkeley” townhouse with new appliances, fresh paint and carpet, custom Florida sunroom.

1600 sq ft, Stan Moffson, Weichert, Realtors, 301-928-3463.

LEISURE WORLD® - $144,900. 2BR 2 FB “G” model in “Greens” with garage + golf cart space.

Golf course view. New paint and carpet. 1195 sq ft. Stan Moffson, Weichert, Realtors 301-9283463.

LEISURE WORLD® - $149,900. 2BR 2 FB “GG” model in “Greens”. Fresh paint and carpet, garage space included, enclosed balcony, golf course view. 1195 sq ft. Stan Moffson, Weichert, Realtors 301-928-3463.

LEISURE WORLD® - $112,500. 2 BR 1 FB 2HB “Berkeley” townhouse updated kitchen with granite counters and maple cabinets, flagstone patio, new windows. 1600 sq ft.

Stan Moffson, Weichert Realtors 301-9283463.

LEISURE WORLD® - $99,000. 2 BR 1FB 1 HB “Elizabeth” model. Rare first floor location with custom patio enclosure, Extras and upgrades. 1308 Sq ft. Stan Moffson, Weichert, Realtors 301-928-3463.

GAITHERSBURG/ROCKVILLE JUST REDUCED!! Beautiful 3 bedroom, 2 full bath condo in desirable Washingtonian Towers. Galley kitchen, separate dining room, extra large living room with new carpet, new windows, spectacular view, security desk, pool, undercover parking space conveys. Call Linda 301 367-8891.

SAINTSBURY PLAZA 55+ 2BR 2BA Condo at the Vienna Metro. Future development of Metro West (see MetroWestVA.com) is coming to the backyard. Corner unit, covered patio, gourmet kitchen, recessed lighting, lots of windows. Secure, elevator building, additional storage, party room, exercise room, business center. Move in ready. Call Jackie Lewis RE/MAX Allegiance 703-220-1768 to see. $340,000 to purchase, $1,750 monthly to rent.

Classifieds cont. on p. 63

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING RATES

Deadlines and Payments: Ad text and payment is due by the 20th of each month.

Note: Only ads received and prepaid by the deadline will be included in the next month’s issue. Please type or print your ad carefully. Include a number where you can be reached in the event of a question. Payment is due with ad. We do not accept ads by phone or fax, nor do we accept credit cards.

Private Party Text Ads: For individuals seeking to buy or sell particular items, offer a personal service, or place a personal ad. Each ad is $15 for 25 words, 25 cents for each additional word.

Commercial Party Text Ads: For parties engaged in an ongoing commercial business enterprise. Each ad is $35 for 25 words, 50 cents for each additional word.

Note: Each real estate listing counts as one commercial ad.

The Beacon, Classified Dept.

P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915-2227

Send your classified ad with check or money order, payable to the Beacon, to:

For information about display advertising, or to request a media kit, call (301) 949-9766.

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Crossword

Puzzle Page

In the Cards 1

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by Stephen Sherr 5

6

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Across 1. Toothpaste brand since 1955 6. Lab assistant 10. Links org.

14. CBS, for Ed Sullivan 15. “No way, Jose” 16. Male triad locale 17. Futilely defy conventions 20. Circus setting 21. Radio format 22. One up from med.

23. Left of center 25. Breakfast selection 27. Complete satisfaction 32. Mideast org. founded in 1958 33. Lovers’ destination 34. Deteriorates 36. February statement 38. Defeat soundly 41. Aquatic reply 43. Famed 1920’s co-murderer 45. Gilda, to Rita Hayworth 47. Long, long time 48. A feudal floral battle 52. Motivate 54. Golf goal 55. ___ de plume 56. Dunderhead 59. Part of a dark suit 63. 2008 election issue 66. CPR specialists 67. Awkward intellectual 68. Possible WD-40 target 69. Wonka worder 70. Deuce beater 71. Less conventional 1. Select actors 2. Ready for picking

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Answers on p. 61.

9

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3. “___ go bragh!”

4. Bowling alley employee 5. Start of pod or cycle 6. IHOP ingredient 7. Praise word for a puppy 8. To be or not to be, for example 9. Use a microwave oven 10. GM negotiating partner 11. Daggers 12. Quite a Din 13. Gamal ___ Nasser: Egyptian president 18. Quite a lot of dins 19. Poly’s compound 24. Tammy Faye’s org.

26. Queue to reach Q 27. O’Hare, to United Airlines 28. Peerage rank 29. Early defense contractor 30. Limit 31. Illusory images 35. Gin flavoring 37. Harvest 39. Japanese drama 40. Maniacal collector 42. Switch settings 44. What you can do with your own 62 Down 46. Koufax stat 49. Opposite of Occident 50. Restrain 51. Florist’s offering 52. Like Goldilocks, when found 53. She’s big (It’s the pictures that got small) 57. Had on 58. May race place 60. Mimic a bank or library 61. Encourage 62. Common half-time ad product 64. Cable modem alternative 65. Detective story question

Answers on page 61.

Answer: A good way for an amateur carpenter to build a staircase ONE STEP AT A TIME Jumbles: TYING TEMPO IMPEDE FASTEN

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For Sale/Rent: Real Estate

Miscellaneous

Personal Services

Wanted

APARTMENT RENTALS! From $500 Per Month. Huge Selection Of Rentals. Low Income & Luxury At Discounted Rates. Call Now! 1800-530-9672.

ATTEND COLLEGE ONLINE from home.

Medical, Business, Paralegal, Accounting, Criminal Justice. Job placement assistance. Computer available. Financial aid if qualified. Call 800494-3586 www.CenturaOnline.com.

BILINGUAL ACCOUNTANT On-Call/Part Time. Prepare bills, and process payments for visa cards, materials for construction projects, fuel, equipments, utilities, petty cash, and administrative expenses. Reconcile prices with vendors; organize file invoices, and searching invoices. Run and mailing checks. Federal and State tax preparer for individual and small business. I have experience in Excel, Microsoft, TurboTax, and Accounting Systems. Call at 301587-1242 or e-mail varcar@aol.com

HIGHEST CASH PAID FOR ANTIQUES, ESTATES. FREE evaluations and house calls.

We pay the most for your valuable treasures because we get the most money on eBay – the worldwide Internet. Serving entire metro area – Maryland, Washington, DC, Northern Virginia.

Buying the following items – furniture, art, paintings, silver, gold, old coins, jewelry, vintage wristwatches, military items, including guns, rifles, swords, daggers, knives, musical instruments, guitars, violins, banjos, old toys, dolls, trains, old golf clubs, baseball, football, tennis equipment and memorabilia, old fishing, tools, books, photographs, comic books. Please call Tom 240-476-3441, Thank you.

BETHESDA APARTMENT – Looking for female, non-smoker to rent lovely fully furnished, carpeted basement apartment available in quiet residential neighborhood in Bethesda, Maryland. Near Montgomery Mall, very close to Georgetown Square and Wildwood shopping Center (with grocery stores, banks, restaurants). Close to Strathmore Performing Arts Center, convenient to NIH, Naval Hospital and Suburban Hospital. Walking distance to Rockledge Medical Offices. Close to access for I-495 (Beltway) and I-270. Walking distance to Ride-On and Metrobus stops. Private bedroom and bathroom, along with living room, dining room and kitchenette. Private entrance. Shared laundry. Satellite TV. No pets.

Asking $999 per month, utilities included.

Ideal person would be neat, clean and not too noisy. Please contact Elizabeth at 301-5308273 or lizabeth618@yahoo.com.

BOCA RATON, FL - $189,500. Deep Waterfront / No Fixed Bridges – 2BR, 2FB Condo.

Adorable, first floor, new appliances, heated pool on water overlooking the boats on the Intracoastal. Exercise room, oversized storage unit.

Call 301-412-3947 ***FREE FORECLOSURE LISTINGS*** OVER 400,000 properties nationwide. Low down payment. Call now 800-250-2043.

For Sale DIRECT to home Satellite TV $19.99/mo.

FREE installation, FREE HD-DVR upgrade.

New customers - No Activation Fee! Credit/Debit Card Req. Call 1-800-795-3579.

FREE HD FOR LIFE! DISH Network. $24.99/mo. - Over 120 Channels. Plus $500 BONUS! Call 1-800-915-9514.

Health FLU VACCINATION CLINIC – October 17, 2010, 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Medicare B, Bravo Health, Aetna – participating providers. St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, 4900 Connecticut Ave., NW, Washington, DC. No pre-registration required. 202-966-5489.

ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION can be treated safely and effectively without drugs or surgery.

Covered by Medicare/Ins. 1-800-815-1577ext.1018 www.LifeCareDiabeticSupplies.com.

Home/Handyman Services NEED HOUSE CLEANING? Professional service at an affordable rate! Weekly, bi-weekly, monthly or one time. Call for a free estimates at 240-644-4289.

ROOF REPAIR & Gutter Cleaning, Northern VA only. 571-237-0559, ask for MARK. 20 years of experience. Weekend appointments available.

Also new roofs, siding & gutters.

Miscellaneous THE CENSUS BUREAU is seeking participants, aged 65-75, to participate in website studies in Suitland, MD (free parking; Metro Green line). Contact Temika Holland: (301) 7635241. *AAAA DONATE YOUR CAR FREE TOWING “Cars for Kids” Any Condition Tax Deductible Outreachcenter.com 1-800-794-4511.

DONATE YOUR CAR. FREE TOWING. “Cars for Kids”. Any condition. Tax deductible outreachcenter.com, 1-800-597-9411 HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA FROM HOME, 6-8 Weeks. ACCREDITED. Career Opportunities. FREE Brochure. Toll Free 1-800-264-8330, www.diplomafromhome.com EVERY BABY DESERVES A HEALTHY START. Join more than a million people walking and raising money to support the March of Dimes. The walk starts at marchforbabies.org.

REGISTERING PUREBREDS & MIXED BREEDS Since 1991. No Litter Fees EVER! 1800-952-3376; www.ckcusa.com.

Personal Services MOTHER WILL DRIVE YOU to your appointments, do your shopping, clean your house, fix computers, event planner, personal assistant at a reasonable rate. Honest and dependable.

240-595-7467.

WILL TYPE YOUR MEMOIRS, manuscripts, etc. For info and rates call 703-671-1854.

WOW! GREAT HAIRCUT at a great price!

Professional family hair salon conveniently located in Bethesda, MD. State board certified.

Call 240-432-7211.

PRESERVE YOUR FAMILY MEMORIES! Don’t let your precious photos be forgotten or fade over time. I’ll transfer your photos, slides, and negatives to a CD so they can be easily shared with friends and family. Once they’re scanned, I can bring your photos to life in a memorable DVD slideshow that will make a creative and unique gift for any occasion! Call Kim at Virtual Computer Services, 301-4383140.

PUT YOUR MEMORIES IN FRONT OF YOU EVERY DAY Photo/Film/Slide Scanning.

I am a grandfather with four grandchildren.

The most enjoyable part of my day is when I pass by one of my family digital picture frames with a continuous slide show of my family growing up. It always brings a smile to my face.

Maybe I can help you do the same. Call for free brochure and pricing. Free pick up and delivery. www.twistandshoutstudio.com, 301-699-0660.

MEDICARE PROVIDER HOME VISITS by a licensed clinical psychologist with over 40 years experience. SENIOR ASSISTING SENIORS with stressful life changes of aging including illness, chronic pain, relationship problems, loss of family or friends due to death or change of residence. If you think you might benefit from consulting with a mental health professional, and have difficulty making visits to doctors, call Ben Prieto, Ph.D. at 301-384-3392 to arrange a FREE initial consultation.

STRESSED? TIRED? OVERWHELMED? Changes in work status, family life, friendships, health and aging can produce increased levels of stress. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with training and experience in cognitive/behavioral therapy. I support people who are undergoing change to help them transform “limitations” into possibilities. Convenient Bethesda location. Accept Medicare. Don’t struggle alone: Call for support today. Judith R. Peres, LCSW-C 301-455-5140.

CONNECT GENERATIONS WITH YOUR SPOKEN MEMOIR. In this day of disposables, e-mail, and throw-away possessions, exactly what will our descendents discover about us?

Narrate your memoir. Only you know how it was and how you want your experiences and irreplaceable family stories to be remembered. A vivid keepsake in your own voice. Recorded in a casual setting in your home, with expert assistance, recorded with quality equipment, and produced as an aural CD for you and attractively labeled copies suitable as gifts for those close to you. For further information, please contact Dave Checkman PhD, Memoir Keepers Associates, by e-mail (david393@cox.net) or phone 703-821-7666. Ask for a free sampler CD to hear what a memoir can be like.

VAN MAN – For your driving needs. Shopping, appointments, pick-up and deliver – airport van. Call Mike 301-565-4051.

CHERYL’S ORGANIZING CONCEPTS. Specializing in residential and small business organizing, paperwork management and senior move management. Member National Association Professional Organizers (NAPO). Bonded, insured. www.CherylsOrganizing.com. 10% senior discount 301-916-9022.

PAUL F. CASEY, MOVER, delivery, storage, trucking, a world leader in personal service.

Specialist to NYC, all boroughs, New England, Maine. Call Paul, 301-351-3840 Small Loads Welcome.

DO YOU HAVE A NOVEL IN YOU? Awardwinning writer with 25 years experience will help you write, edit, and help find agents and publishers for your work of fiction, non-fiction, poetry, or your memoir. Hourly rate reduced for senior citizens. Phone Jack Ryan at 703-5601015, or e-mail to jryan12558@aol.com.

Personals ATTRACTIVE SENIOR 6ft., 179lbs., former Naval Officer based in Europe is planning a trip back to Europe this year – and is seeking a trim attractive lady, age 50-65. Most expenses will be paid by me. Let’s get acquainted and plan our trip together. Please send short letter with description, recent photo and telephone number to WLH, care of P.O. Box 25943, Alexandria, VA 22313. Thanks.

WHITE FEMALE – Seeking friends for shopping, movies, local travel or just pen pals. You can be divorced, separated, married (55-75).

Does Drive. Leave a message, 703-597-9015.

SINGLE AND LONELY? Have A Passion for Cars? Love to Drive or Can’t Wait For Your Next Build? Go Where Your Passion is Understood: www.hotrodsingles.com.

Wanted WE PAY CASH for antique furniture, quality used furniture, early American art, pottery, silver, glassware, paintings, etc. Single items to entire estates. Call Reggie or Phyllis at DC 202726-4427, MD 301-332-4697.

MILITARY ITEMS WANTED: Collector seeks to purchase military uniforms; flight jackets, patches, insignia, medals, etc. from the Civil War through Vietnam. Especially seeking U.S. Army Air Corps, USMC, Airborne, and German/Japanese/Italian items from WWII. ALSO BUYING old Boy Scout, Airline Items, Toys, Lighters. Call Dan (202)841-3062.

CASH FOR JEWELRY: Buying jewelry, diamonds, gold, platinum, silver, watches, coins, flatware, etc. We make house calls. Ask for Tom or Katherine. Call anytime 301-654-8678.

ANTIQUE AND QUALITY OLDER FURNITURE and accessories wanted. One piece or entire estate, including toys, dolls, paintings, silver, Oriental rugs, prints, pottery, china and glassware. Music boxes, clocks, country store items, paper memorabilia, historical and military items, old fishing equipment, antique firearms and all other items of value. I am a Washington native with over 35 years of experience in this business. I am well educated, courteous and have more experience and pay higher prices than virtually any other dealer in the area. I make prompt decisions, have unlimited funds, pay immediately and remove items expeditiously. No messy consignments or phony promises. References gladly furnished. Please call Jake Lenihan, (301) 279-8834. Thank you.

STAMP COLLECTIONS, AUTOGRAPHS purchased/appraised – U.S., worldwide, covers paper memorabilia. Stamps are my specialty – highest price paid! Appraisals. Phone Alex, 301309-6637. Stampex1@gmail.com.

WANTED TO BUY old magazines, books, postcards, posters, etc., pre-1975. Also bookends, antique bookcases with glass fronts. Please call 301-946-0941 anytime.

HIGHEST CASH PAID FOR ANTIQUES AND COLLECTIBLES. Compare my price before you sell! Serving entire metro area. Call for a free consultation, and professional service. I will purchase one piece or your entire estate. Including Furniture, Artwork, Glassware, Jewelry, Rugs, Costume, Gold and Silver, Watches, Sterling Items, Flatware, Lladro & Hummel Figurines, All Military Items, Guns, Swords, Helmets, Bayonets, Medals, Scout Items, Clocks, Music Boxes, Toys, Baseball Memorabilia, trains, All String Instruments, Including Guitars, Banjos, Mandolins, Fishing Rods and Reels, Lures, Historical Items, American tools, Posters, Outside Iron Furniture. I am a very reputable dealer with two locations in Silver Spring and Bowie, MD. Please call Christopher Keller 301-408-4751 or 301-262-1299. Thank you.

WANTED: OLDER VIOLINS, GUITARS, BANJOS, MANDOLINS, ETC. Musician/collector will pay cash for older string instruments.

Jack (301) 279-2158.

WATCHMAKER desires to buy antique and vintage pocket watches and wristwatches.

Working or needing repair. Also movements, cases, dials, parts, crystals, tools, repair manuals. Anything related. Buying one piece or entire inventory. Please call Bill @ 540-656-8762.

HIGHEST CASH PAID FOR ANTIQUES AND COLLECTIBLES– Old and good quality furniture, glass, pottery, china, paintings, art, toys, advertising, costume and high-grade jewelry, gold, silver, silver flatware, wind-up watches, clocks, dolls, musical instruments, music boxes, sports & paper memorabilia, sterling, fishing, hunting, rugs, lamps, Hummels, political, rock & roll memorabilia, posters, military items, helmets, guns, swords, bayonets, medals, weapons, guitars, banjos, prints, art, sculptures, Lladro, bronzes, trains, fishing rod reels & lures, cast iron outdoor furniture, hi-grade American made tools, presentation and other unusual items.

Purchasing one piece or entire Estates. I have over 30 years experience and I am a very ethical dealer located in Bowie, Md. Also a permanent vendor at Eastern Market in Southeast Washington, DC on Sundays. Please call Mike Keller, (301)731-0982 or (301)742-5031.

WANTED JAPANESE MOTORCYCLES KAWASAKI,1970-1980, Z1-900, KZ900, KZ1000, H2-750, H1-500, S1-250, S2-250, S2350, S3-400. CASH PAID. 1-800-772-1142. 1310-721-0726.

CASH PAID for unexpired, sealed DIABETIC TEST STRIPS - up to $17/Box! Shipping paid.

Linda 888-973-3729. www.cash4diabeticsupplies.com. $$OLD GUITARS WANTED$$ Gibson, Fender, Martin, Gretsch. 1920’s to 1980’s. Top Dollar paid. Toll Free: 1-866-433-8277.

BEACON BITS

Oct. 17

U.S. ARMY CONCERT BAND PERFORMANCE

On Sunday, Oct. 17 at 3 p.m., the Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall & Arts Center, 3001 N. Beauregard St., Alexandria, Va. presents the U.S. Army Concert Band playing a program of symphonic masterpieces: Bernstein’s symphonic dances from West Side Story and Georges Bizet’s Carmen.

Free parking is available. Call (703) 696-3399 or visit www.usarmyband.com for additional information.

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