December 2023 | Howard County Beacon

The Howard County

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More than 30,000 readers throughout Howard County

A second chance behind bars

A turning point Launched in 2016, the Prisons and Justice Initiative was the brainchild of Marc Howard, now its executive director.

Howard’s life trajectory changed when he was in high school. On his first day of senior year, Howard woke up to the news that the parents of his friend Marty Tankleff had been murdered.

Through a hostile interrogation without presence of counsel, the young Tankleff was tricked into believing he had been iden-

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE PRISONS AND JUSTICE INITIATIVE

By Margaret Foster Maryland professor Neil Roland’s students aren’t your average college kids. Instead of dorm rooms, they live in prison cells. Roland, 71, has tutored incarcerated people for eight years, starting at a maximum-security prison in Jessup, Maryland.

Today, Roland teaches world affairs at the District of Columbia Jail through Georgetown University’s Prison Scholars, a program of its Prisons and Justice Initiative. The initiative, which also offers degree programs to inmates, has reached more than 200 people to date.

This fall, Roland brought one of his students a book she had been trying to find for years. “She was overjoyed. She covered her face to keep herself from crying,” Roland said.

“Clearly, this was a woman who loves learning. Of course, I kept my cool, but when I can help set off that spark for learning in someone, it brings me joy.”

Every year, convicted people in America’s jails are proven to be innocent of the crimes for which they were imprisoned.

Even those that were justly convicted can turn over a new leaf and start anew. Getting an education is one way to achieve that.

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LEISURE & TRAVEL

Osaka, Japan is worth a visit for its castle, world-class aquarium and delicious street food; plus, relive Dirty Dancing at the Virginia lodge where the 1987 movie was filmed page 23

Marc Howard is founding director of the Prisons and Justice Initiative, which helps incarcerated people earn college degrees and assists them in returning to society after they’re released from prison. Howard got into the field after he helped exonerate a high school friend who was wrongly convicted and spent 17 years in jail for a crime he did not commit.

tified as the murderer, though he suspected his father’s business partner of the crime.

Tankleff was arrested, convicted and sentenced to 50 years to life in prison.

(The business partner who owed Tankleff’s father money and fled after faking his own death was never charged with the murders.)

Years later, Howard began visiting his old friend, who continued to maintain his innocence, behind bars.

“One day in the prison visiting room, I made him a promise: I said, ‘I’m going to do everything I can to get you out of prison.’

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See SECOND CHANCE, page 28

FITNESS & HEALTH 3 k Does TV boost dementia risk? k Light therapy fights winter blues

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D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 3 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

A time for thanks I want to thank the thousands of Beacon I want to thank our hard-working staff readers and their guests who attended our for putting together these fantastic events, two 50+Expos in October. and also want to thank our I think those who came will gold sponsors: AARP Viragree that it was wonderful to ginia and Brandywine Living be together with other peoat Potomac. We so appreciple, and simply to be out and ated Giant Pharmacy for about on a beautiful day, visitproviding a variety of vacing the informative exhibits, cines and health screenings, getting essential vaccines and and the Prevention of Blindhealth screenings, and enjoyness Society for offering ing a fun, public event. glaucoma tests.

I was especially happy to If you were unable to hear see so many familiar faces FROM THE my interview of Tony Perkins and get a chance to speak PUBLISHER of NBC News4 Today and with you, catch up on your By Stuart P. Rosenthal MAJIC 102.3, we have posted lives, and hear your views on a video of it on our website at the issues of the day. www.thebeaconnewspapers.com/50expos.

Of course, I’d be lying if I didn’t admit We are already making plans for next that one of the best parts was hearing all fall’s Expos, and intend for them to be even the glowing compliments people shared bigger and better than this year’s. I hope with me about the Beacon, our writers, our to see all of this year’s attendees again sales staff and the events themselves. I next year, and many more of you who were was floating out the door at the end of both not able to attend this year.

Expos.

Our exhibitors were equally happy with Writing awards I also want to share with you the kudos the event and with meeting so many active older adults who were sincerely interested the Beacon received in the 2023 Mature in the housing communities, health Media Awards competition, which “honor providers, financial and legal advisors, the nation’s best materials and programs recreation and travel opportunities, and for older adults.” government and nonprofit agencies that The Beacon won both a Silver and a Merit participated. award in the Newsletter/Newspaper catego-

Beacon The

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The Beacon is a monthly newspaper dedicated to inform, serve, and entertain the citizens of the Howard County area, and is privately owned. Other editions serve Greater Baltimore, Md. and Greater Washington, D.C. Subscriptions are available via third-class mail ($12), prepaid with order. Maryland residents add 6 percent for sales tax. Send subscription order to the office listed below.

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

Publisher/Editor – Stuart P. Rosenthal President/Associate Publisher – Judith K. Rosenthal Executive Vice President – Gordon Hasenei Managing Editor – Margaret Foster Art Director – Kyle Gregory Vice President of Operations – Roger King Advertising Representatives – Steve Levin, M.K. Phillips, Alan Spiegel Marketing & Operations Manager – Ashley Griffin Assistant Editor – Ana Preger Hart Editorial Intern – Margaret Scala

The Beacon, P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915 (410) 248-9101 • Email: info@thebeaconnewspapers.com Submissions: The Beacon welcomes reader contributions. Deadline for editorial is the 1st of the month preceding the month of publication. Deadline for ads is the 1st of the month preceding the month of publication. See page 31 for classified advertising details. Please mail or email all submissions.

© Copyright 2023 The Beacon Newspapers, Inc.

ry. (The other Silver winners were both AARP publications.)

We also won numerous awards in the annual journalism competition of the North American Mature Publishers Association.

Once again, we won “Best of Show” and first place for “General Excellence” and “Special Section” (for our quarterly Housing and Homecare Options pullout), as well as individual writing awards for selected features, profiles, arts reviews, travel stories, topical issue columns, editorials and personal essays.

Staff writers and freelancers so honored include: Catherine Brown, Dan Collins, Mark Dreisonstok, Glenda Booth, Bob Levey, and yours truly.

As we are entering the holiday season and the year draws to a Congratulations to Mrs. Phyllis T. Sipes of close, I want to add here my Halethorpe, Maryland, whose response to a thanks to, and admiration for, all national reader survey placed in our April issue by the North American Mature Publishers Association of our staff, who work so diliwas randomly selected as the winner of a $500 gently to produce multiple edi- gift card. She said she loves to read the Baltimore tions of the Beacon every month. Beacon, which she picks up each month at the I’d like to thank them by Lansdowne Senior Center. Sipes said she’s been name: Executive Vice Presi- reading the Beacon for 12 years, that our Fitness dent Gordon Hasenei; Art & Health section is her favorite part, but that she loves to read it “cover to cover…It’s just perfect.”

Director Kyle Gregory; Man- Thank you, Mrs. Sipes, and congratulations on aging Editor Margaret Fos- your prize. ter; Assistant Editor Ana The Beacon would not exist without all Preger Hart; Advertising Representatives Dan Kelly, Steve Levin, M.K. Phillips of their efforts, nor without you who read and Alan Spiegel; Marketing & Opera- our publications each month. I offer my tions Manager Ashley Grif fin and, of sincere appreciation to each of you.

Wishing you and yours a happy and course, my wife, the Beacon’s President and Associate Publisher, Judy Rosenthal. healthy holiday season and new year!

We also are thrilled to welcome back our former Director of Operations, Roger King, who returned this year to become our Vice President of Operations.

Letters to the editor Readers are encouraged to share their opinions on any matter addressed in the Beacon as well as on political and social issues of the day.

Mail your Letter to the Editor to The Beacon, P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915, or email info@thebeaconnewspapers.com.

Please include your name, address and telephone number for verification.

Dear Editor: I just wanted to drop you a line to let you know that our ad looking for alumni to help maintain the Western High School Alumni Association worked, and the Association will continue under new management.

Thanks for your assistance. We invite any other Beacon readers who are alumni of Baltimore’s Western High School to join us.

Jorge M. Castrogiovanni Western High School Alumni Assn.

Dear Editor: In May 2018 I was involved in a rather serious car accident. Police, firefighters and EMS staff quickly arrived to help.

This experience led me to create a nonprofit called ManyThanks2U, which I believe is the first of its kind, to encourage

the public to express gratitude to those individuals who serve us in uniform.

Far too often, the public forgets to thank these valiant individuals, who risk their lives on our behalf. When we do, though, first responders will give you their undivided attention, shake your hand, and express their appreciation for your gratitude.

I guarantee a smile will appear on the first responder’s face.

ManyThanks2U is different from other nonprofits, since we don’t ask for funding.

Visit our website at ManyThanks2U.com to learn more about the organization’s purpose, recommendations and projected impact on first responders.

Douglas Zinn New Freedom, PA

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H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 3

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LET THERE BE LIGHT If you suffer from seasonal affective disorder, try using a lightbox daily

Health Fitness &

COLD FINGERS Ease the pain of Raynaud’s phenomenon with medication, exercise or relaxation BEST SEAFOOD CHOICES Small fish like sardines are high in nutrition but lower in toxins than larger fish IMMUNE SYSTEM FACTS No, vitamin C won’t cure a cold — and other myths about the immune system

Does more TV time raise dementia risk?

By Andrew E. Budson, M.D. Be honest: Just how much television are you watching? One study has estimated that half of American adults spend two to three hours each day watching television, with some watching as much as eight hours per day.

Is time spent on TV a good thing or a bad thing? Let’s look at some of the data in relation to your risks for cognitive decline and dementia.

First, it’s proven that physical activity sharpens the mind. The more time you sit and watch television, the less time you have available for physical activity. Getting sufficient physical activity decreases your risk of cognitive impairment and dementia.

Not surprisingly, if you spend a lot of

time sitting and doing other sedentary behaviors, your risk of cognitive impairment and dementia will be higher than someone who spends less time sitting.

Is TV actually bad for you?

OK, so it’s better to exercise than to sit in front of the television. But you knew that already.

Assuming you’re getting regular exercise, is watching television still bad for you? The first study suggesting that, yes, television is still bad for your brain was published in 2005.

After controlling for year of birth, gender, income and education, the researchers found that each additional hour of television viewing in middle age in-

creased risk for developing Alzheimer’s disease 1.3 times.

In contrast, participating in intellectually stimulating activities and social activities reduced the risk of developing Alzheimer’s.

Although this study had fewer than 500 participants, its findings had not been refuted. But would these results hold up when a larger sample was examined?

TV and cognitive decline In 2018, the UK Biobank study began to follow approximately 500,000 individuals in the United Kingdom who were 37 to 73 years old when first recruited between 2006 and 2010. The demographic information reported was somewhat sparse: 88% of the sample was described as white and 11%

as other; 54% were women.

The researchers examined baseline participant performance on several different cognitive tests, including those measuring: • prospective memory (remembering to do an errand on your way home) • visual-spatial memory (remembering a route that you took) • fluid intelligence (important for problem solving) • short-term numeric memory (keeping track of numbers in your head) Five years later, many participants repeated certain tests. Depending on the test, the number of participants evaluated ranged from 12,091 to 114,373.

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D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 3 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

Q&A: Advice on weight loss; low energy

By Howard LeWine, M.D. Q: If you are overweight, what is more important: getting fit or losing weight?

A: You are alluding to what some people have called the fat but fit paradox. Let’s start with definitions of fitness and fatness.

Fitness, also referred to as cardiovascular fitness or cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF), is a measure of the performance of the heart, lungs and muscles of the body.

Muscle performance includes measures of both strength and endurance.

Maximal oxygen consumption (VO2

max), a laboratory measure of the maximum amount of oxygen a person can use during exercise, is the optimal measure of CRF. However, self-reported physical activity is often used as a proxy for VO2 max in research studies because it’s much easier and less expensive to assess.

Fatness can be defined in many different ways. Body mass index (BMI), a calculation of your size that takes into account your height and weight, is used most commonly.

However, we know that measures such as body fat percentage, waist circumference, waist-to-hip, ratio and waist-to-height

ratio tell us much more than BMI about a person’s health, metabolic risk and risk of death. Still, due to the ease and relative inexpensiveness of this measurement, BMI is used most commonly in research studies.

The fat but fit paradox suggests that individuals with obesity who are also active can experience a reduction in cardiovascular disease risk that supersedes the effect of their increased weight.

It’s no surprise that being more physically active is linked to lower levels of blood pressure, cholesterol and sugar compared to being inactive.

However, physical activity does not completely compensate for the negative effects of having either overweight status or obesity. In other words, individuals with overweight or obesity are at greater cardiovascular disease risk than their counterparts with normal weight, regardless of physical activity levels.

Thus, the existing evidence shows that physical activity reduces — but does not eliminate — the effects of overweight or obesity on cardiovascular disease risk.

TV time

ed with better cognitive function at baseline, and a lower likelihood of cognitive decline over the five-year study.

pant physical activity: • time spent watching television increased the risk of dementia, while • time spent using the computer decreased the risk of dementia.

These changes in risk were not small.

Those who watched the most television daily — more than four hours — were 24% more likely to develop dementia. Those who used computers interactively (not passively streaming) more than one hour daily as a leisure activity were 15% less likely to develop dementia.

Studies like these can only note links between behaviors and outcomes. In other words, it’s possible that people who were beginning to develop dementia started to watch

television more and use the computer less.

From page 3 The results of this study were clear.

First, at baseline, more television viewing time was linked with worse cognitive function across all cognitive tests.

More importantly, television viewing time was also linked with a decline in cognitive function five years later for all cognitive tests.

Although this type of study cannot prove that television viewing caused the cognitive decline, it suggests that it does.

Further, the type of sedentary activity chosen mattered. Both driving and television were linked to worse cognitive function.

In contrast, computer use was associat-

TV and dementia risk In 2022, researchers analyzed this same UK Biobank sample with another question in mind: Would time spent watching television versus using a computer result in different risks of developing dementia over time?

Their analyses included 146,651 people 60 and older from the UK Biobank. At the start of the study, none had been diagnosed with dementia. Over 12 years, on average, 3,507 participants (2.4%) were diagnosed with dementia.

Importantly, after controlling for partici-

See ADVICE, page 6

The bottom line If you watch more than one hour of TV daily, my recommendation is to turn it off and do activities that we know are good for your brain.

Try physical exercise, using the computer, doing crossword puzzles, dancing and listening to music, and participating in social and other cognitively stimulating activities.

Andrew E. Budson, M.D., is a contributor to Harvard Health Publications and an Editorial Advisory Board member for Harvard Health Publishing. © 2023 Harvard University. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 3

SADder in the winter? Try light therapy Dear Mayo Clinic: Once daylight saving time ends, I find it difficult as it gets darker earlier. I also notice that I get a bit more depressed in the winter.

My friend suggested a light box for seasonal affective disorder. What is a light box, and can it be helpful in improving my mood?

A: Seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, is a type of depression that typically occurs each year during fall and winter. If you’re like most people with SAD, your symptoms start in the fall and continue into the winter months, sapping your energy and making you feel moody.

It is important not to brush off that yearly feeling as simply a case of the “winter blues” or a seasonal funk you must tough out on your own. Take steps to keep your mood and motivation steady throughout the year.

The use of light therapy can offer relief.

For some people, light therapy may be more effective when combined with another SAD treatment, such as an antidepressant or psychological counseling, or psychotherapy.

Light therapy boxes for SAD treatment are also known as light boxes, bright light therapy boxes and phototherapy boxes.

Light boxes come in different shapes and sizes. Some look like upright lamps, while others are small and rectangular.

All are designed to do the same thing, but one type may work better for you than another.

A light therapy box mimics outdoor light.

Researchers believe this type of light causes a chemical change in the brain that lifts your mood and eases other symptoms of SAD.

How to use a light box Generally, the light box should provide an exposure to 10,000 lux of light and emit as little ultraviolet, or UV, light as possible.

Typical recommendations include using the light box: • within the first hour of waking up in the morning, • for about 20 to 30 minutes, • at a distance of about 16 to 24 inches from the face, and • with eyes open but not looking directly at the light.

Light boxes are designed to be safe and effective, but they aren’t approved or regulated by the Food and Drug Administration for SAD treatment, so you can buy a light box without a prescription.

Still, it’s best to talk with your healthcare provider about choosing and using a light therapy box. Most health insurance plans do not cover the cost.

A caveat: If you’re experiencing both SAD

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and bipolar disorder, the advisability and timing of using a light box should be carefully reviewed with your healthcare provider. Increasing exposure too fast or using the light box for too long each time may induce manic symptoms if you have bipolar disorder.

If you have past or current eye problems, such as glaucoma, cataracts or eye damage from diabetes, get advice from your eye care provider before starting light therapy.

How to choose a light box Here are some questions to think about when buying a light box for SAD: Is it made specifically to treat SAD? If not, it may not help your depression. Some light therapy lamps are designed for skin disorders, not for SAD. Lamps used for skin disorders primarily emit UV light and could damage your eyes if used incorrectly.

How bright is it? Light boxes produce different intensities of light. Brighter boxes will achieve the same effect as dimmer boxes with less use each day. Typically, the recommended intensity of light is 10,000 lux.

How much UV light does it release?

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Light boxes for SAD should be designed to filter out most or all UV light. Contact the manufacturer for safety information if you have questions.

Can it cause eye damage? Some light boxes include features designed to protect the eyes. Ask your eye care provider for advice on choosing a light box if you have eye problems, such as glaucoma, cataracts or eye damage from diabetes.

Can you put it in the right location?

Think about where you’ll want to place your light box and what you might do during its use, such as reading. Check the manufacturer’s instructions so you receive the right amount of light at the proper distance.

Again, talk to your healthcare professional about light box options and recommendations to get one best suited to your needs. — Compiled by Mayo Clinic staff Mayo Clinic Q & A is an educational resource and doesn’t replace regular medical care. Email MayoClinicQ&A@mayo.edu.

For more information, visit mayoclinic.org. © Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. All rights reserved. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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Advice From page 4 So, if you are both overweight and inactive, what should you concentrate on first?

The natural answer is both.

However, for my patients I have always advocated concentrating first on increasing daily physical activity and scheduling 10 to 15 minutes of moderate intensity exercise every day.

There are many non-weight related benefits of exercise, including improvements in energy metabolism, oxidative stress, inflammation, tissue repair and immunity. But don’t expect that you will immediately start to shed pounds with a bit more exercise.

Once your increased activity level becomes more routine, you are more likely to consider the ways you can reduce daily calorie consumption.

Also, you may wish to talk with your doctor about pharmacologic options to help with weight loss.

D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 3 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

Q: I am in my 70s, and my health is good overall. But I wish I had more energy. Why do older people become less energetic? How can we boost our energy naturally?

A: As we get older, we lose energy-producing engines in the cells (mitochondria), and as a result, we make less adenosine triphosphate (ATP) — the molecule that delivers energy to cells throughout the body.

We also lose muscle mass, resulting in fewer cells, fewer mitochondria and lower ATP production. If you’re too tired to be active, it compounds the problem by further weakening and shrinking muscles.

Fortunately, a healthier lifestyle can help give you more energy. That means eating a diet low in added sugars and processed foods, with enough calories and nutrients to meet your needs; getting seven to nine hours of sleep each night; managing stress; and (if necessary) talking to your doctor about medication side effects.

And perhaps the fastest, most important way to boost your energy is to move more.

The recommended amounts of exercise are at least 150 minutes of aerobic activity (such as brisk walking) per week, and at least two muscle-strengthening workouts per week. But studies have shown that any amount of exercise is beneficial.

For example, a review of almost 200 randomized controlled trials of resistance training, published online by the British Journal of Sports Medicine on July 6, 2023, found that people who did any strength training at all increased muscle mass and physical function compared with people who didn’t do strength training.

In addition to boosting your energy, it’s essential to use what you have wisely. Think in terms of “energy dollars” and be more frugal about the way you spend them.

Strategies known as the “four P’s” can help.

Prioritizing. Think about what you need to accomplish in a day versus what you want to accomplish, and make the nec-

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essary activity your priority.

Planning. Planning how to use your energy will help you accomplish more.

Planning could be scheduling just one major errand or appointment per day as opposed to three errands. Planning could also mean that you schedule rest breaks.

Pacing. Don’t try to rush through activities, which can use up all of your energy quickly. Rushing leads to fatigue and increases your risk of falling. Spread out your activity to give yourself time to recover between tasks.

Positioning. Maintain good posture when you’re sitting or standing. You’ll expand your lungs so they can take in more oxygen. And it might help to sit down during activities to reduce the amount of energy you’re using.

Howard LeWine, M.D., is an internist at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston and assistant professor at Harvard Medical School. For additional consumer health information, visit health.harvard.edu. © 2023 Harvard University. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 3

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What are the benefits of practicing yoga?

Dear Mayo Clinic: I am a mother of two, work full time and am also a breast cancer survivor. I know physical exercise is important, so I try to visit the gym a few times a week for weight training and to walk.

A friend recently invited me to a yoga class. I have never thought about adding yoga to my fitness routine. What are the benefits, and how would I get started?

A: Yoga is a wonderful form of exercise that provides benefits that walking and strength training do not provide. In Eastern cultures, yoga is not seen as exercise but rather as “a moving meditation.” In the Western world, many people know power yoga or vinyasa yoga, which are classified as exercise.

Regardless of the type, the practice of yoga brings together physical and mental disciplines that may help you achieve peacefulness of body and mind, relax, and manage the stress and anxiety associated with being a busy mom and living with cancer.

Yoga can provide three primary benefits that a typical gym routine may not provide: improved nervous system function, improved joint range of motion, and improved dynamic balance.

Better breathing Since yoga is based on breathing, parts of the nervous system are affected when you lengthen the amount of time you exhale and control your breathing. This is cued throughout particular yoga sequences. Specifically, yoga can help lower the fight-or-flight response and improve the body’s rest-and-digest response.

Practicing slow, controlled breathing stimulates the body’s vagus nerve, which takes information about the current state of relaxation and relays it to the rest of the body, including the brain. One area affected when the vagal nerve is stimulated is the parasympathetic nervous system, which controls the body’s rest and digestion functions.

The mindful breathing practiced in yoga increases the activity of the parasympathetic nervous system. As a result, yoga lowers the heart rate, improves digestion and quality of sleep, and strengthens the immune system. Another benefit is reduced stress.

Better mobility The difference between flexibility and active range of motion is important. Think of flexibility as how much a muscle can be passively stretched. In contrast, range of motion is how much muscles can be used to control a joint’s movement.

It is not uncommon these days for people to report neck and back pain, and poor range of motion in their thoracic spine due to constant sitting, typing on computers and looking down at cellphones.

Yoga is excellent in improving the thoracic range of motion because many poses involve extending the body through the rib cage and using strength to hold these postures.

Yoga incorporates all four motions of the spine: flexion, extension, rotation and sidebending. Therefore, yoga can prevent stiffness and disuse that also can occur with age. Being able to control the available range of motion in joints is crucial to good posture and decreasing the risk of injury.

Better balance Think of balance like a muscle. By working hard at different exercises, balance can improve. This is similar to improved strength by lifting weights.

Balance is a complex system requiring three parts: the sensation of the foot on the ground, or proprioception; vision; and the inner ear, or vestibular system. These three parts tell the brain where the head is in space. These three components work together to control both static and dynamic balance.

Yoga trains the proprioception and visu-

al systems to improve balance. Depending on the pose, cues are sent to focus, for instance, on the foot rooted to the ground.

By concentrating in an attempt to maintain contact, the big toe, little toe and heel form a tripod of sorts, which in turn helps focus the proprioception portion of balance.

In yoga, you may hear the term “drishti,” which refers to obtaining a focused gaze or focus in the mind. The concept comes into play as people aim to hold a pose with their eyes closed. Certain poses become more challenging with eyes closed, which improves the visual part of balance.

Also, moving back and forth between poses without fully touching a limb to the ground can increase the ability to dynamically move and not lose balance. Over time, this will reduce the risk of falling while walking on uneven ground or turning quickly.

Season’s Greetings

Is yoga right for you?

If you choose to try yoga, go slow and try different kinds to find what works best for you.

Although you can learn yoga from books and videos, beginners usually find it helpful to learn with an instructor. Visiting a class with your friend may be more enjoyable in that it will offer support to you and time together, which is just as important to overall well-being as fitness.

When you find a class that sounds interesting, talk with the instructor so you know what to expect.

And remember, you don’t have to do every pose. If a pose is uncomfortable or you can’t hold it as long as the instructor requests, don’t do it. Good instructors See YOGA, page 9

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D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 3 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

Why fingers may hurt in colder weather

By Robert H. Shmerling, M.D. Q: I am getting more sensitive to colder weather. I am worried about the times my fingers get cold enough to hurt and throb. What are some of the possible causes?

A: A likely possibility is Raynaud’s phe-

nomenon. People with this condition have blood vessels that respond in an exaggerated way to cold. This occurs in their fingers and toes and sometimes in other parts of the body.

Instead of the blood vessels constricting normally in reaction to the cold, they

“overreact” and constrict more severely.

This causes discomfort.

A key feature of Raynaud’s phenomenon is reversible color changes in the fingers. Initially, the fingers may appear white, but within minutes will turn blue and then red before returning to normal.

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Raynaud’s phenomenon may accompany other conditions such as lupus and scleroderma. However, these conditions are relatively rare, while Raynaud’s phenomenon without another condition (such as lupus) is common.

Other potential explanations include: Poor circulation. Atherosclerosis can affect blood vessels anywhere in the body, but it’s rare that it primarily affects the hands.

A congenital circulation problem.

Some people are born with small or missing arteries in the hands, so their fingers may get less than normal blood flow.

Thyroid disease. An underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) may cause cold intolerance, though this is usually bodywide, not just in the fingers.

Drugs. Prescription, over-the-counter and recreational drugs may provoke Raynaud’s phenomenon. Examples include beta-blockers (such as metoprolol/Lopressor), pseudoephedrine (as in Sudafed), and cocaine. Caffeine and nicotine may also constrict small arteries in the fingers.

Diseases that cause sluggish blood flow. These can include polycythemia vera, cold agglutinin disease or cryoglobulinemia. Among all people complaining of cold hands, however, these are rarely to blame.

See your doctor for an evaluation. It may be worthwhile to have your thyroid checked, your medications reviewed, and to have some basic blood tests (to look for some of the conditions mentioned earlier in this article).

In the meantime, keep warm. Wear a hat, coat, scar f and gloves before going out in the cold. Hand warmers are another effective remedy for cold fingers.

However, if you have Raynaud’s phenomenon and these actions don’t help, medications (such as nifedipine/Procardia) to open up the arteries of the fingers may be helpful.

Robert H. Shmerling, M.D., is a senior faculty editor at Harvard Health Publishing and corresponding member of the Faculty of Medicine, Harvard Medical School. For additional consumer health information, visit health.harvard.edu. © 2023 Harvard University. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 3

9

Six ways to alleviate Raynaud’s disease Raynaud’s disease, often characterized 2000s for the fun of it, but never practiced by its telltale cold fingers and toes, is more on patients because I was a pharmacist. than just a fleeting discomfort This technique employs elecfor people. It’s a window into tronic monitoring to convey the complexities of our vascuinformation about physiologilar system. cal processes. By understandWhile managing Raynaud’s ing your body’s responses, can be challenging, underyou can, with practice, learn standing its ties to other condito promote relaxation and tions, like thyroid disease and warmth in your extremities. autoimmune disorders, can It’s not a cure, though. shed light on effective treat2. Calcium channel ment strategies. I’m a believer DEAR blockers: Medications like in getting to the root cause. amlodipine or nifedipine can PHARMACIST Let’s delve into six of the By Suzy Cohen help relax the blood vessels most recommended ways to and increase blood flow to the alleviate the symptoms of this condition. extremities. These drugs have been 1. Biofeedback training: I was proven effective in decreasing the severity trained in neurofeedback in the early and frequency of Raynaud’s attacks in

Yoga From page 7 will understand and encourage you to explore — but not exceed — your personal limits.

While it may be hard to add one more thing to your busy life, incorporating yoga into your fitness practices can benefit your stress level, mobility and balance in ways that may not be achieved from

your regular gym routine.

— Compiled by Mayo Clinic staff Mayo Clinic Q & A is an educational resource and doesn’t replace regular medical care. Email a question to MayoClinicQ&A@mayo.edu. For more information, visit mayoclinic.org. © 2023 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. All Rights Reserved. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

many patients, but again, it’s not a cure.

3. Protect yourself from cold: Simple measures like wearing gloves can make a significant difference. Ensure you dress warmly and limit exposure to cold environments.

4. Avoid caffeine and smoking: Nicotine and caffeine constrict blood vessels and limit blood flow. Avoiding them can help reduce the symptoms of Raynaud’s. On this continuum, where meds restrict blood flow, ADHD medications and oral decongestants

should be avoided or minimized.

5. Regular exercise: Engaging in routine physical activity can help improve circulation. Ensure any outdoor exercise during colder months (even walking the dog during the snowy season) is done while wearing hats, gloves and socks.

6. Stress management: Since stress can trigger Raynaud’s episodes, techniques like deep breathing, meditation and See RAYNAUD’S DISEASE, page 10

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D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 3 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

Small fish and bivalves are good choices

By Julie Corliss, Harvard Health Blog Many health-conscious consumers have already cut back on hamburgers, steaks and deli meats, often by swapping in poultry or seafood.

Those protein sources are better than beef, and not just because they’re linked to a lower risk of heart disease, diabetes and cancer.

Chicken and fish are also better for the environment, as their production uses less land and other resources, and generates fewer greenhouse gas emissions.

And choosing seafood that’s lower on the food chain — namely, small fish such as herring and sardines, and bivalves such as clams and oysters — can amplify those benefits.

“It’s much better for your health and the environment when you replace terrestrial food sources — especially red meat — with aquatic food sources,” said Christopher Golden, assistant professor of nutri-

tion and planetary health at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.

But instead of popular seafood choices such as farmed salmon or canned tuna, consider mackerel or sardines, he suggested.

Raynaud’s disease

disorders. This has been an area of interest for researchers for many years.

Studies have highlighted that people with Raynaud’s phenomenon often show symptoms of autoimmune conditions such as Sjögren’s disease. The prevalence of Raynaud’s is also higher in people with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Treating the underlying condition

From page 9 yoga can be beneficial. Yoga in hot or warm settings may help because it promotes blood circulation.

Now let’s discuss the connection between thyroid disease and autoimmune

Why eat small fish?

Anchovies, herring, mackerel and sardines are all excellent sources of protein, micronutrients like iron, zinc and vitamin B12, and heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which may help ease inflammation within the body and promote a better balance of blood lipids.

And because you often eat the entire fish (including the tiny bones), small fish are also rich in calcium and vitamin D, said Golden. (Mackerel is an exception: cooked mackerel bones are too sharp or tough to eat, although canned mackerel bones are fine to eat.)

Small fish are also less likely to contain

contaminants such as mercury and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) compared with large species like tuna and swordfish.

Those and other large fish feed on smaller fish, which concentrates the toxins.

It’s also more environmentally friendly to eat small fish directly instead of using them to make fish meal, which is often fed to farmed salmon, pork and poultry.

Feed for those animals also includes grains that require land, water, pesticides and energy to produce, just as grain fed to cattle does, Golden points out.

The good news is that, increasingly, salmon farming has begun using less fish meal, and some companies have created highly nutritious feeds that don’t require fish meal at all.

Follow the Mediterranean diet

sardines and anchovies, said Golden.

Canned versions of these species, which are widely available and less expensive than fresh, are a good option.

However, most canned anchovies are salt-cured and, therefore, high in sodium, which can raise blood pressure.

Here are some ways to use sardines packed in water or olive oil: • served on crackers or crusty, toasted bread with a squeeze of lemon • prepared like tuna salad for a sandwich filling • added to a salad • tossed with pasta, either added to tomato sauce or with lemon, capers and red pepper flakes.

Golden is particularly fond of pickled herring, which you can often find in jars in supermarkets or even make yourself.

The traditional Mediterranean diet, widely considered the best diet for heart health, highlights small fish such as fresh

See SEAFOOD, page 12

will help relieve the Raynaud’s symptoms.

Raynaud’s disease is named after the French doctor Maurice Raynaud, who first described the color changes in the fingers back in 1862. This condition has been around for a long time, and I wish it had more effective solutions.

If you would like to read a more compre-

hensive version of this article, it’s posted on my website, suzycohen.com.

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 author of The 24-Hour Pharmacist.

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H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 3

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ince 1968, Family & Nu Nursing Care has helped tens of thousands of families by providing g p older access to caregivers who help adults wit with accttiv ivit ities of dai aily ly liivving — incl cluding bat athing, dressing, mobiliitty assistance, errands, meal prep, ligght

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access to compassionate p as and expert le caregivers to help expert-level older adults maintain their independence p and q qualityy of liffee as they age. Ninety-eight percent of surveyed clients have said they would recommend these services

to a fr friend or o family member. nth, we asked T To om This mon ness Development Smiith, Busin Managgerr,, Familyy & Nursingg Care for some advvice fo for those who find themsellves in the “sandwich generaation”.

Q: How can I avoid burning out as a caregiver for my aging mother while activ vely parenting my teenagers?

Many people aren’t aaw ware of the flexiib ble nat ature of home care.

Care can be arranged ffo or just a ffeew hours a day ay. There is no long-term obligaattion. People who try iit out ut experience succh h posiitive cch hanges in their liffee and in the liffee of their loved one that at they often cchoose to receiivve home care services long term.

care services, the overwhelming maj ajorit ity say ay they wish they’’d called us sooner. We We recognize that at every family’s needs are diff ffeerent and

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Our company prides itself on mat atching clients’ needs with caregivers’ skills. Frequent fe feedback we receive ffrrom the adult children who arrange fo for home care services for their parents is represented by this email we received: “I ffeelt like I g was with mom when the caregiver was there. She put my miind completely aat ease.”

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D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 3 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

Some unique appetizers for the holidays

By Dawna Pitts As the holidays approach, add these appetizers to your entertaining repertoire.

Parmesan Crisps, below, are available in grocery stores, but they are easy to make and can be prepared a week in advance.

Homemade ones taste so much better, and leftovers are great on salads, soups, or with slices of pear for a little snack.

In addition, Baby Brie and Fig Pies are an easy, fast appetizer using store-bought, premade pie crust. These pies are filled with the delicious combo of melted Brie cheese and fig jam. These cuties disappear very fast!

Baby Brie and Fig Pies Serves 6 Ingredients: 1 frozen pre-made pie crust, defrosted 8-10 ounces soft Brie cheese (not triple cream, which will be too runny in this recipe) 8 ounces fig jam 1 egg and 1 tablespoon of water

Butter or non-stick spray for preparing the baking pan Round cookie cutters Directions: 1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.

2. Prepare mini cupcake tins or mini tart tins by spraying non-stick spray or rubbing butter inside. Silicon baking pans work great for non-stick purposes.

3. Roll out the pie crust so it is flat, even, and about ¼-inch thick.

4. Using a 2 or 2 ½-inch round cookie cutter, cut the bottom part of the baby pies.

5. Press the cut pie crust into the baking tins and repeat until you have used about half of the crust.

6. Trim Brie by cutting out most of the wax and cut it into 1-inch cubes, inserting them into prepared pie bottoms.

7. Spoon a teaspoon-full of fig jam and add to top the Brie pieces. Spread gently to fill the pie cups.

8. Using a 1- to 1 ½-inch round cookie cutter, cut out small rounds of pie crust until you have used all the pie crust. You can re-shape and use the scraps as well.

9. Place a small round-cut crust on top of the pie and seal the rounds by pressing with a fork all around the diameter. Also, poke holes in the center top of the pie with a fork.

10. Beat 1 egg and a tablespoon of water until well combined and brush the egg

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11. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown.

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Parmesan Crisps Serves 6 These can be made a week in advance.

Ingredients: 1 cup grated parmesan cheese ½ tablespoon all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper Optional topping ideas: 1 tablespoon “Everything Bagel” seasoning Fresh minced herbs such as thyme leaves, rosemary, chives or parsley

Seafood From page 10

Bivalve benefits Bivalves are two-shelled aquatic creatures that include clams, oysters, mussels and scallops. Also known as mollusks, they’re good sources of protein but are quite low in fat, so they aren’t as rich in omega-3s as small, fatty fish.

However, bivalves contain several micronutrients, especially zinc and vitamin B12. Zinc contributes to a healthy immune system, and vitamin B12 helps form red blood cells that carry oxygen and keep nerves throughout the body healthy. While most Americans get enough B12, some may not.

And from a planetary health perspec-

Directions: 1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

2. Combine cheese, flour, pepper and any optional toppings.

3. Place a generous tablespoon of mixture on a parchment paper-lined cookie sheet (make sure you leave at least an inch and a half of space between them as they will spread out in the oven).

4. Bake for 8 minutes.

5. Let cool and store in airtight container until you’re ready to use.

You can toast them quickly in the oven right before serving for a warm and softer texture.

Excerpted from Entertaining Is My Love Language, a new home entertainment cookbook from party planner Dawna Pitts. © 2023 by Dawna Pitts

tive, bivalves are among the best sources of animal-based protein. “Bivalves can be ‘nature positive’ because they don’t require feed, and they filter and clean up water,” Golden said.

Be aware, however, that bivalves can become contaminated from runoff, bacteria, viruses or chemicals in the water.

So be sure to follow FDA advice about buying and preparing seafood safely.

Although we tend to think of coastal cities as the best places to find seafood, it’s available throughout the United States. For less common varieties, try larger Asian markets, which often carry a wide variety of fish and bivalves, Golden suggested. © 2023 Harvard University. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 3

13

Fact v. fiction about our immune systems

By Jessica Migala The health of our immune systems has become front-of-mind for many over the last few years. And with that comes a lot of advice on the best way to prepare your body’s defenses for any lingering bugs.

Here, we take a look at four common myths about immune health and see what the science says.

1. Your body’s defenses weaken with age.

True. Research shows that as more candles top your birthday cake, the immune function begins to decline, leaving adults over age 65 more vulnerable to severe illness from viral and bacterial infections.

There’s a science-y term for this process: immunosenescence. You have fewer circulating immune cells, and changes to those you do have make them slower to respond to infectious invaders.

2. Probiotics support healthy immune function.

Mostly true. The microbiome plays a key role in a strong, resilient immune system. A recent review found that probiotic supplements (which contain strains of “good” gut bacteria) decreased the risk of becoming sick with a respiratory infection, and shortened its duration among those who did come down with one.

Probiotics may activate immune cells

that fight viruses, reduce inflammation, and kick out “bad” bacteria in your GI system that could open the door to illness.

However, this mechanism isn’t fully understood, and higher-quality clinical studies are needed.

3. Honey will “cure” your allergies.

Too early to tell. The theory is this: Honeybees gather pollen from the very plants that cause your itchy eyes, so consuming a small daily dose of the local honey — and subsequently these pollens — may stimulate your immune system and reduce allergies, explained Miguel P. Wolbert, an allergist and immunologist in Evansville, Indiana.

But the pollens that cause sneezing and congestion — such as ragweed — are wind borne, while the pollens bees collect are too heavy to fly in the breeze.

Wind-borne pollens can fall onto flowers, get picked up by bees and end up in honey, Wolbert said, “but it’s likely to be a very, very small amount” — not enough to make a difference. And, so far, no clinical evidence shows that honey alleviates allergy symptoms.

On the other hand, honey may help soothe your cough. The brain part that registers sweet tastes and the part that causes coughing are located near each other, so sensing sweetness may affect coughing,

according to researcher Ian M. Paul, M.D. One (major) disclaimer: Don’t give honey to a baby younger than one year old. Honey may contain spores of a bacteria that causes botulism, which an infant’s immature immune system can’t handle.

4. A megadose of vitamin C can squash a cold.

Mostly false. This vitamin does play an important role in immune function. But at the first sign of sniffles, don’t run to the drugstore to load up on C: High-dose sup-

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Recreation & Parks

D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 3 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

Upcoming Programs for 55 Years +

To view all of our programs and activities, visit www.HowardCountyMD.gov/rap.

Crafts & Fine Arts • Info: Tracy Adkins, 410-313-7279 or tadkins@howardcountymd.gov.

Artful Journaling Club In this weekly club, create journal pages that combine creative writing and decorative art using a variety of media. No art experience necessary. Participants suggest and lead activities.

Supplies discussed at first meeting. This is a participant-run club, no instructors present.

55 yrs + Bain 50+ Ctr Classes: 12 RP0305.601 Jan 4 10am-noon Th $20

You Can Draw & Paint with Carol Zika Instructor provides fun and supportive atmosphere for artists and experienced dabblers who wish to work on self-chosen activities among other creatives. Participants bring their own materials and projects to work on with an art educator experienced in a wide variety of media. Occasional demos given. Personal feedback and guidance given to each student in this open studio format. Bring a table cover.

55 yrs + E. Columbia 50+ Ctr Classes: 8 RP0304.601 Jan 5 1-3pm F $119

Dance • Info: Tessa Hurd, 410-313-7311 or thurd@howardcountymd.gov.

Dance on Broadway This class explores dance steps inspired by current and longtime Broadway musicals! Learn musical theater choreography that challenges your mind and body while you get a workout!

Appropriate for all levels. Wear clothing you can move in and bring a water bottle. No shoes are required, but a jazz shoe/ sneaker may be worn for ankle support if desired.

55 yrs + Kinetics Dance Thtr Classes: 11 RP3504.601 Jan 9 10-11am Tu $135

Fitness • Info/Fitness Waiver: Tessa Hurd, 410-313-7311 or thurd@howardcountymd.gov.

Pop Up Yoga w/ Kathy Greisman

December 2, 9:30am-4:30pm Gary J. Arthur Community Center $5 per person (ages 4 and under, free) www.HowardCountyMD.gov/HolidayMart

Relax while you take in the sights and surrounding beauty of nature as you get fit and improve your health in this outdoor yoga class. Walk away feeling refreshed, energized and ready to take on the day that lies ahead. Join us for the classes that fit your schedule! Classes are indoors.

55 yrs + Belmont Manor Classes: 1 RP3541.512 Dec 4 10-11am M $14 RP3541.513 Dec 11 10-11am M $14 RP3541.514 Dec 18 10-11am M $14

January programs open for registration on December 6!

Scan the QR code or visit tinyurl.com/activeaging55 for more 55 yrs + programs!

Makes a great gift! | Fitness & Health

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 3

First Step Fitness w/ Pamela Schuckman, ACE-CPT, GFI Are you an Active Aging participant looking to return to a fitness program after illness or injury? Or maybe you’ve always wanted to start a fitness program, but traditional gyms make you feel a little shy? This class helps you take the first steps toward realizing your fitness goals while having fun and building confidence.

In this class, we focus on core strength, balance, and flexibility while teaching participants proper body mechanics and ways to modify or progress exercises. This class has two goals; to help each participant get back to fitness, and to have fun while doing it. Participants should be able to get up and down from the floor, either independently or with a chair to assist.

55 yrs + Roger Carter CC Classes: 12 RP3544.503 Dec 5 9:30-10:30am Tu,Th $45

Fitness for Life with Lori Nowicki, ACE, AFPA

• Info: Tracy Adkins, 410-313-7279 or tadkins@howardcountymd.gov.

Meet You There: Toby’s Dinner Theater – Miracle on 34th Street “It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas” at Toby’s. This musical adaptation of the classic film is the holiday tale of a young girl who doubts the existence of Santa Claus until a very special, white-bearded old man changes her mind.

Recreating the magic of the classic story, Miracle on 34th Street is a joyous, heartwarming musical, the perfect holiday treat for the entire family. A full and delicious buffet dinner is included with the show.

All ages Toby’s Dinner Theater Walking from car to seat RP4583.501 Dec 1 6-10pm F $89

This class includes a warm-up, balance work, cardio and strength training with Keiser and Precor equipment. Free weights are optional and there’s a cool down with a complete stretch at the end. Participants should be able to get up and down from the floor.

55 yrs + N Laurel CC Classes: 18 No class 1/15, 2/19, 2/21, 2/26 RP8666.601 Jan 8 11am-12:15pm M,W $126 55 yrs + Roger Carter CC Classes: 19 No class 2/20, 2/22, 2/27 RP8666.602 Jan 9 12:15-1:30pm Tu,Th $133

Dutch Apple Theater: A Christmas Carol

Ageless Fitness w/ Lori Nowicki, ACE, AFPA

The Kennedy Center: Handel’s Messiah

Join us for a virtual hour of exercise. The class consists of cardio, weights, resistance bands, balance, floor work and stretching.

During this session, work on posture, breathing, and hand and foot exercises. Everything is optional and work at the pace that is right for you.

55 yrs + Online Classes: 19 No class 2/20, 2/22, 2/27 RP3553.601 Jan 9 10:30-11:30am Tu,Th $133

Sports & Leagues • For info, visit www.hcrpsports.org.

• Sign up for the following programs has begun!

Aquatics Badminton Baseball Basketball Billiards Cricket

Fencing Field Hockey Football Golf Jump Rope Kickball

Lacrosse Martial Arts Pickleball Soccer Softball

Spikeball Squash Tennis Therapeutic Rec Volleyball

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A seasonal favorite! With his “Bah, Humbug!,” Ebenezer Scrooge reveals his feelings about the holiday. But it’s never too late to change, even for a grumpy old miser like him. With the help of Tiny Tim and the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future, Scrooge discovers the true spirit of the holidays – greeting Christmas morning with newfound happiness and spreading cheer. A delicious and plentiful buffet is included.

18 yrs + Dutch Apple Theater Walking from bus to seat RP4584.501 Dec 7 11am-6pm Th $159 Celebrate the holiday season! Washington, D.C.’s favorite holiday tradition returns as Laurence Equilbey makes her much-anticipated debut conducting the National Symphony Orchestra, the University of Maryland Concert Choir, and an all-star lineup of soloists in Handel’s greatest oratorio celebration. Composed in 1741, Messiah is as potent today as it was over 280 years ago, inspiring joy and wonder from first-time listeners and those who return every year. A mustsee show! Dinner on your own before the show.

All ages Bus provided Walking from car to seat RP4586.501 Dec 16 4-11pm Sa $165

Scan the QR code or visit tinyurl.com/RPtrips for more trips & tours!

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D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 3 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

A Publication of the Department of Community Resources and Services

Giving back offers benefits for all “The unselfish effort to bring cheer to others will be the beginning of a happier life for ourselves.” – Helen Keller

I

t’s the season of giving, a perfect time to give back to the community and make a difference to the people around you.

The Howard County Office on Aging and Independence offers an opportunity to do both through Project Holiday, an initiative to donate holiday gifts to older adults in assisted living facilities, nursing homes, and in the community who could use some extra cheer. For details, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/projectholiday.

During the busy holiday season, it can be hard to find time to volunteer, but giving to others can benefit you as well as those around you. Volunteer opportunities at OAI’s 50+ Centers can help you stay connected, and protect your mental and physical wellbeing. View current opportunities at www.HoCoVolunteer.org, like these: • The State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) needs volunteers to conduct counseling sessions to help residents review their Medicare coverage. Contact Ayse Tokbay at 410-313-7389 for details.

• People of all ages are needed to help implement Howard County’s Age-Friendly Action Plan. To get involved in bringing the action plan to life, contact agefriendly@howardcountymd.gov.

• The Howard County Office of Consumer Protection (OCP) seeks Spanish- or Korean-speaking volunteers to assist with its work. OCP handles complaints between consumers and businesses, and tenants and landlords. If interested, contact OCP at 410-313-6420.

Volume 13, No. 12 • December 2023

A message from Howard County Executive

Calvin Ball

A

s the holiday season unfolds, I extend season's greetings to all! In the spirit of community, I'm thrilled to share our annual Toys for Tots distribution event is December 16. We welcome your generosity and are accepting donations at all 50+ Centers until noon on December 15. This is more than a collection; it's a chance to bring holiday joy to children. Your donations are symbols of hope from our community.

No matter how or if you celebrate the December holidays, it's important to remember the bonds that hold us together. Whether you are facing social isolation or looking for ways to engage, our Office on Aging and Independence (OAI) offers many programs and events to foster connections. Supported by research from AARP, we know maintaining social connections can significantly benefit mental and physical health as we age.

We're proud to continue Project Holiday, a heartwarming initiative that brings gifts to those in assisted living facilities, nursing homes and other residences.

Your generosity has been overwhelming, with over 4,000 donations that translate into holiday cheer for more than 300 residents. Our volunteers and partner agencies are the project’s backbone, ensuring the season is bright for everyone.

Sharing a meal is another beautiful way to connect. Visit one of our 50+ Centers for lunch, where you can forge new friendships or rekindle old ones, celebrate the season, or enjoy a healthy meal together. With lunch services available at various centers, there's always a place at the table for you.

This holiday season is filled with opportunities to come together. Embrace all OAI has to offer, fostering warmth and connection in our beloved Howard County.

Join us for a consumer protection public forum developed to educate and inform!

December 9 • 2:00 to 4:00 pm County Executive Calvin Ball (back row, second from left); Stephanie Adibe, deputy director, DCRS (second from right); and Lisa Terry, manager, Office of Veterans & Military Families (second row, second from left), joined members of the Tom Thumb Square Dance Club and others, just some of the many local crafters who knit and crocheted more than 1,100 hats and scarves for deployed U.S. service members. Special thanks to Donna Maertens, owner of Postal Xpress N More for her generous support to ship the donations to Operation Gratitude.

ELLICOTT CITY 50+ CENTER 9401 Frederick Road Ellicott City 21042

Scan the QR code or REGISTER at https://bit.ly/HoCoHotTopics

410-313-6420 (VOICE/RELAY) • consumer@howardcountymd.gov • www.howardcountymd.gov/consumer

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 3

The 50+ Connection

Makes a great gift!

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SENIOR PLANET Shopping on Amazon Workshop DCRS Building, 9830 Patuxent Woods Drive, Columbia 21046 December 6, 2 p.m.

December Featured Events International Karaoke NORTH LAUREL 50+ CENTER

This hands-on workshop will provide a general introduc on to shopping on Amazon.com. Learn how to search for products, compare prices and evaluate product reviews. Review Amazon’s shipping op ons, and preview the Amazon app for your smartphone and/or tablet. Free. To register, visit bit.ly/SP-Amazon or call 410-313-6542.

December 5, 1:30 to 3 p.m.

Sing your heart out in any language that speaks to you! Pick a song or two and email the YouTube link to northlaurel50@howardcountymd.gov

by November 30 to be added to the karaoke cue. Free; sign up at the front desk.

Graphic Design Tools

Hanukkah Party / A03745.500

Looking for a crea ve outlet? Try your hand at one or more free, user-friendly, web-based graphic design tools! Explore the popular design pla orm, Canva, and learn how to be crea ve using with basic tools like Google slides. We’ll also look at Photoshop Express, the web-based, free version of Photoshop. Free; register online at bit.ly/SPGraphicDesign or call 410-313-1950

GLENWOOD 50+ CENTER December 6, 11 a.m.

Celebrate Hanukkah with a kosher meal and enjoy the music of the Howling Dogs, a Klezmer band. Admission is $5. Lunch is by dona on for those age 60+ and $7 under age 60.

Miller Branch Library, 9421 Frederick Rd, Ellicott City 21042 December 12, 2 p.m.

Getting Ready, Set, Sell! / A02607.502 ELLICOTT CITY 50+ CENTER December 11, 1 p.m.

Join Karen Gatzke to set yourself up for success as you prepare to sell your home. Get ideas to spruce up your home to reflect what today’s buyers are looking for; learn what to expect during home inspec ons and appraisals; and get an overview of the current real estate market.

Free; register on Ac veNet.

Housing Options Fair: Be in the know about a place to go / A05634.500 ELKRIDGE 50+ CENTER December 11, 1 to 3 p.m.

As we age, it is important to know about viable op ons and alterna ve places we might call home. Fill your a ernoon with informa on and op ons for housing in Howard County. A Maryland Access Point Specialist will join housing vendors to help clarify the op ons in and around our community. Free.

In this season of giving, the Office on Aging and Independence is collecting NEW GIFT ITEMS FOR OLDER ADULTS who reside in assisted living facilities, nursing homes and in the community who would otherwise not receive a gift.

Donations of NEW UNWRAPPED GIFT ITEMS will be accepted through December 6, 2023.

For the Wish List, drop-off locations and hours, go to:

Christmas Luncheon

http://bit.ly/HoCoProjectHoliday

BAIN 50+ CENTER

Monetary donation options are also available on the web site, or scan the QR code for details!

December 13, noon Celebrate the holidays with an intergenera onal music program featuring the Howard County Youth VIVACE. Lunch will be provided by dona on, catered by la Madeleine. Tickets available at the front desk.

Call 410-313-7213 for more informa on.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT

Morgan Spliedt 410-313-5952 (VOICE/RELAY) • mspliedt@howardcountymd.gov

Soundtracks of Our Lives Presents: Christmas on Records / A04781.500 EAST COLUMBIA 50+ CENTER December 15, 12:30 p.m.

Celebrate the holiday season with 50 holiday selec ons spanning a half century of musical styles and tastes. Plus, enjoy holiday trivia, presented

by Hugo Kessing. Spark old memories and create new ones! Lunch is available by dona on; register on Ac veNet or at the front desk.

To register or find more events, visit bit.ly/HoCoRegistration

9830 Patuxent Woods Drive, Columbia, MD 21046 410-313-6410 (VOICE/RELAY) • www.howardcountymd.gov/aging Find us @HoCoCommunity on Facebook, Instagram, X, YouTube, and Nextdoor Kim Higdon Henry, Editor • EMAIL: kahenry@howardcountymd.gov AVAILABLE IN ALTERNATE FORMATS UPON REQUEST

Join the subscriber list https://bit.ly/HoCosubscribe Listen to the HoCo Community Chat podcast on Buzzsprout Advertising in the Beacon is not endorsed by the Office on Aging and Independence or by the publisher.

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D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 3 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

Money Law &

Save money on heat this winter. See story on page 20.

Medicare Advantage — pitfalls to avoid

By Kate Ashford [Ed. Note: We are currently in the thick of Medicare’s annual “open enrollment period,” which runs from October 15 to December 7 every year. That’s the period during which you can a) switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan, or vice versa, b) join, drop or switch to another Medicare Advantage Plan, and c) add, drop or change prescription drug coverage.

It is advisable to review your options every year, as various aspects of health and drug plans may change. This article is focused on those currently in or considering a Medicare Advantage plan.]

Only 3 in 10 Medicare beneficiaries who have a Medicare Advantage plan shop around during open enrollment, according to a 2022 analysis from KFF, a health policy nonprofit. And only 1 in 10 Medicare Advantage enrollees voluntarily switch plans.

A 2020 analysis of Medicare Advantage plan choices by the National Bureau of Economic Research found that more than half of beneficiaries overspent by more than $1,000 due to the plan they selected.

Here are some practices to avoid as you shop for Medicare Advantage this fall: 1. Thinking Medicare Advantage is Medicare If you’re considering Medicare Advantage, understand that it’s not the same thing as government-provided Medicare.

It offers the same benefits, but Medicare Advantage is run by private health insurance companies, and it operates differently.

“You are essentially taking the Medicare coverage that you’ve been provided by the government and turning that in,” said Melinda Caughill, co-founder and CEO of 65 Incorporated, which offers Medicare guidance.

You can switch back to Original Medicare during each year’s open enrollment period, but you may not be able to qualify for an affordable Medicare Supplement Insurance plan, or Medigap, once you’re past the one-time Medigap open enrollment period. (Medigap helps with certain out-of-pocket costs not covered by Original Medicare.)

2. Assuming your doctors are in network Medicare Advantage plans operate within networks of medical providers, and you usually must see in-network doctors for covered care.

“A lot of people don’t realize that — especially those $0-premium plans — they tend to have fairly confined networks,” said Emily Gang, CEO of the Medicare Coach, a site that provides Medicare guidance. “You want to double-check that your doctor is actually an approved provider in that network.”

Ask your providers what insurance they’ll be accepting in 2024, suggests

Sarah Murdoch, director of client services for the Medicare Rights Center, a nonprofit consumer advocacy organization. It’s easier than trying to check each plan’s network individually.

3. Not checking your drug coverage Like network providers, drug coverage can also change each year. Your drug plan might cover one of your medications differently in 2024, leaving you with more out-of-pocket costs than you expected.

“If you take even one brand name medication, your need to compare plans is incredibly high,” Caughill said. No brand names on your list? Shop around if you take five or more medications in general.

4. Buying for the dental benefits Medicare Advantage plans usually include benefits that aren’t part of Original Medicare, such as dental, vision or hearing coverage. These extras may be appealing, but don’t let them steer your plan choice.

“First of all, it’s health insurance — so how is it going to cover your healthcare providers and your medications?” said Katy Votava, who holds a doctorate in health economics and nursing and is president and founder of Goodcare, a consulting firm focused on the economics of Medicare.

“If you pick (your plan) for a benefit that isn’t health insurance, you’re often picking wrong. And the dental benefit is pretty limited in all these plans — it’s a couple of

cleanings and some bite wings.”

5. Looking at the premium only The majority of Medicare Advantage enrollees are in plans with no premium, meaning you pay nothing each month for the plan. “People see that $0 premium and they’re like, ‘Oh, it’s free,’” Gang said.

“And it’s not.”

Research the rest of the plan’s costs before you sign up, including deductibles, copays, coinsurance and the out-of-pocket maximum, which is the most you might have to spend on covered care in a year. In 2023, the out-of-pocket max can be as high as $8,300 for in-network care.

6. Buying because your friend has it People eligible for Medicare are bombarded by information during open enrollment, and it can be overwhelming. “They don’t shop,” Votava said. “They go with name recognition or what their friend has.”

The better choice: Focus on your own situation and find the plan that meets your needs.

If you need help, contact your State Health Insurance Assistance Program, or SHIP, for free Medicare guidance. In Howard County, the number is (410) 3137392. Just don’t wait until the last minute, because appointments fill up, Votava said.

“If you need individual help, you’d better get on the list.” © 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.

Time to give bonds and CDs a closer look Traditionally, financial advisers have stock returns in the near future will be urged investors to allocate 60% of their much lower than in the past. Average portfolios to stocks and 40% stock returns in the last few to debt instruments. This apyears have been poor. proach made sense during In 2022, the returns for both bull markets for stocks, when stocks and bonds were poor. the average return for a diFor most of 2023, most stock versified stock portfolio perindexes had very good reformed much better than for sults, but now all of the gains a diversified bond portfolio. have fallen back to levels at Lately, however, the Federal the start of 2023, so if you look Reserve has been increasing at the average returns of most interest rates to curb inflation. THE SAVINGS indexes, stock returns over The result has been that re- GAME the last two years have been turns for investments in cer- By Elliot Raphaelson mostly negative. tificates of deposit, money As recently as the beginmarket funds, and bonds with short and ning of 2022, the returns on investments in long maturities have increased dramatically. short-term debt instruments were much Many market forecasters predict that less than 1%.

But with the recent increases in interest rates, even very conservative debt investments — such as CDs with various maturities, money-market funds, short- and longterm Treasury instruments, and highquality corporate bonds — carry attractive interest rates often exceeding 5%.

The current attractive interest rates, coupled with the uncertainty and risks of traditional common stock investments, are leading many investors to change their portfolio balance more in favor of bonds and fixed-income securities.

Bonds also have risks If you are planning to invest more heavily in bonds, you need to understand the risks involved.

Interest rate risk. When you purchase

an individual bond, or invest in bond funds or bond exchange-traded funds (ETFs), the value of the investment will fluctuate based on changes in interest rates. This is an inverse relationship to interest rates.

That is, when interest rates increase, the value of individual bonds decreases.

If you purchase individual bonds and hold them to maturity, you will receive the par value of the bond. You receive your principal back.

But when you purchase mutual funds or ETFs, the manager is constantly buying and selling shares, so an increase in interest rates will reduce the value of your investment. You don’t have the option of waiting until the portfolio matures.

See BOND BASICS, page 19

Makes a great gift! | Law & Money

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 3

19

Give to charity from IRA for max tax benefits

By Joy Taylor Many Americans donate to charity each year. Knowing that the money can help an organization that is near and dear to your heart helps you feel warm and fuzzy inside. Getting a federal tax break for the contribution might be an added bonus.

However, these days, most people who donate can’t write off their gifts. That’s because only individuals who itemize deductions on Schedule A of Form 1040 can deduct charitable contributions. And fewer people are itemizing each year because of higher standard deductions. Only 11.6% of federal tax returns for 2021 claimed itemized deductions.

For IRA owners who are 70½ or older, one of the easiest ways to make a charitable donation and get a tax break is by making a qualified charitable distribution (QCD) from a traditional IRA. For 2023, you can transfer up to $100,000 directly from your traditional IRA to charity. If you have more than one IRA, the $100,000 cap applies per account owner, not per IRA. The amount next year will be a bit higher because the Secure Act 2.0 retirement law provides for annual inflation indexing of the $100,000 cap.

Note: Qualified charitable distributions are not permitted from employer plans, such as 401(k)s. The tax break applies only if you are 70½ or older on the date of the charitable transfer.

If you are married, you and your spouse can each potentially give up to $100,000 in 2023 from your separate IRAs, provided each of you has a substantial amount in your IRA. But let’s say you have a $70,000 balance in your IRA, and your wife has an IRA worth $1.2 million. In this situation, your qualified charitable distribution cap is limited to $70,000 and your wife’s is limited to $100,000. Your wife won’t be able to make

Bond basics From page 18 Therefore, unless you are investing on a long-term basis, you should only invest in bond funds and ETFs with short maturities to protect your principal.

Credit risk. The safest bond/debt instruments you can buy are issued by the U.S. Treasury. You can obtain higher interest rates with corporate bonds, but you incur the risk of default (in which case your interest payments are stopped or missed for a period), or downgrading (in which case the bond price may fall significantly).

You should select bonds with the highest ratings. Standard & Poor’s and Moody’s ratings are reliable yardsticks to measure credit risk.

Call risk. Many bond issues, including municipal bonds, allow the issuer to retire all, or a portion, of the bonds at premium or par before maturity. Before purchasing individual bonds, make sure you understand any call provisions.

a distribution of $130,000 to make up for your lower gift.

Do it right There are three main tax benefits of qualified charitable distributions. They are not taxable. They are not added to your adjusted gross income, which can help you mitigate surcharges on your 2025 Medicare premiums. And they can count toward your annual required minimum distribution (RMD).

(Note: The first dollars out of your IRA are considered to be required minimum distributions, so if you want to do a qualified charitable distribution that will count toward your required payout, give money to the charity before you take money for yourself.)

But you can’t deduct the qualified charitable distribution on Schedule A. That would be double-dipping.

Only transfers from your IRA directly to charity are considered qualified charitable distributions. Most IRA custodians will require you to fill out a form requesting the charitable payout. The custodian will then either send a check directly to the charity or make a check out to the charity and send it to you to mail to the organization.

In either circumstance, get a receipt from the charity to substantiate the donation.

Also, give a heads up to the charity if the check is being sent to it from the custodian. Let the charity know the money will be arriving, and give your name and address for an acknowledgement receipt for your tax records.

If you have check-writing privileges on your IRA account, your custodian might let you write the check to charity yourself, but first ask if that’s OK. Don’t wait until the last minute in 2023 to do a qualified charitable distribution. It can take some time for the money to go

Money-market benefits Personally, I have increased the percentage of debt holdings in my portfolio, investing a significant portion of my portfolio in federal money-market funds, which now return over 5%.

Significant advantages of money-market funds are liquidity and safety. You can sell your shares any time.

So, if you decide that you want to increase your common stock holdings in the future, you can dollar-cost average back into the stock market by investing in diversified index funds. You can use this approach both within or outside your retirement plan.

Bottom line: There are now many safe debt instruments that provide high returns with short and long maturities.

Don’t assume that your only investment option is maintaining a high proportion of common stocks in your portfolio.

Elliot Raphaelson welcomes your questions and comments at raphelliot@gmail.com. © 2023 Elliot Raphaelson. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

from the IRA to the charity, particularly if an investment needs to be sold for cash, and the charity must receive the money by Dec. 31 for your contribution to count for that year.

through a charitable gift annuity, charitable remainder unitrust or a charitable remainder annuity trust. Many private colleges have charitable gift annuity programs. If you’re an alumnus, you may hear about this from your alma mater.

Gifts to colleges also OK The money must generally go to a section 501(c)(3) organization. However, there is now a limited exception to this rule.

IRA owners can do a one-time qualified charitable distribution of up to $50,000

Reporting on your Form 1040 The Form 1099-R that you will get early next year won’t reflect the qualified chariSee CHARITY, page 21

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D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 3 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

Reducing financial abuse of older adults

By Trina Walton Financial crime against older Americans is a growing problem. Victims of fraud who are 80 and older lose an average of $39,200 every year.

People living with dementia are at an especially high risk of becoming victims. As their memory and other thinking skills decline, people with dementia may struggle to make financial decisions.

They may not remember or report the abuse — or understand that someone is

taking advantage of them. This abuse can occur anywhere, including at home or in care settings.

Studies show that financial exploitation is the most common form of elder abuse.

However, only a small fraction of these incidents is reported.

You can help protect others by learning to recognize common signs of financial exploitation and abuse, including: • Unopened bills • Unusual or large purchases

• Utilities being shut off due to unpaid bills

• Money given to telemarketers or soliciting companies • Unexplained withdrawals from the person’s bank account

Steps for caregivers There are many simple things that caregivers can do to reduce the risk of financial abuse for people with dementia and similar conditions, like Alzheimer’s. (Do your best to make sure they’re involved in deciding which safety measures to put into place.)

Some options include: • Agreeing to spending limits on credit cards • Signing up for the “Do Not Call” list at DoNotCall.gov • Setting up auto-pay for bills instead of paying them by check

• Signing up to receive automatic notifications for withdrawals from bank accounts or large charges to credit cards • Requesting electronic bank and credit card statements and watching for unusual purchases or changes in how the person typically spends money • Asking credit card companies to stop sending balance transfer checks, and opting out of future solicitations • Creating a separate account where you can keep a small, agreed-upon amount of money that the person can use for recreational activities, meals with friends, etc.

To learn more about combating elder abuse, visit Social Security’s blog at blog.ssa.gov/world-elder-abuse-awarenessday-combating-injustice.

Trina Walton is the Social Security district manager in Glen Burnie, Maryland.

Leave your heat on all day or turn it off?

By Erin Bendig With energy prices increasing, heating your home is proving difficult for many to afford. This peak in prices is leading many to search for alternative ways to save on energy bills during the winter.

Fortunately, the solution can be easier than you think. If you’ve ever wondered whether or not you should leave your heat on low all day or turn it off when you’re gone, keep reading.

The idea that your heater has to work harder to heat a cold house than it does to keep a home warm is a common misconception. Your home will heat at the same rate, regardless of how cold it is inside.

Considering the typical household spends $4,400 a year on utility bills, it doesn’t make sense to expend energy if you’re not home. If you plan on being away from home for an extended period, turn off your heater so you’re not paying for heat all day.

If turning the heat off all day isn’t an option, then the next best thing is to keep your thermostat setting low to cut your bills.

When you are home, it’s recommended to turn your thermostat down to 68°F for eight hours a day. You’ll be able to maximize your savings by making sure your home is properly insulated so it loses less heat.

Purchasing a smart thermostat is also a great solution to keeping your home at the appropriate temperature. With a smart thermostat, you’ll be able to control your home’s temperature from your phone, allowing you to schedule different temperatures for different times of the day, or to

shut your heat off and turn it on whenever you want.

Other ways to save energy • Make sure your home is well insulated so it loses less heat. If you don’t already have it, insulation is a good investment as it reduces your future bills.

• Switch to LED lightbulbs — they use 75% less energy than incandescent/halogen lightbulbs.

• Consider whether solar panels could be an option for your property.

• Place your thermostat where it will give you the most accurate temperature — avoid drafty windows or direct sunlight.

• Wash your clothes in cold water — this can cut your energy usage in half when doing laundry.

• Bundle up — wear warm clothes and use blankets to avoid turning up the heat.

Bottom line Overall, turning your heater off during the day when you’re not home is the best way to save on heating costs. If you’re out at work all day, flip off your heat until you get home.

If you work from home or are unable to shut your heat off completely, then try keeping your thermostat at a low temperature during the day.

Purchasing a smart thermostat gives you the option of controlling the heat in your home from your phone, helping you to save money on utility bills during cold spells. © 2023 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Send a letter to the editor. See p. 2.

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H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 3

21

Own Series I Bonds? Consider cashing in

By Sandra Block In 2022, a spike in inflation made normally staid Series I [inflation-protected] savings bonds almost as popular as tickets to Taylor Swift’s Eras tour.

I bonds issued between May and October 2022 earned a six-month composite rate of 9.62%, creating a surge in demand from yield-hungry investors that briefly overwhelmed the TreasuryDirect website where they’re sold.

I bond rates have since come down to earth. Bonds issued between May and October 2023 pay a composite rate of 4.3%.

Meanwhile, some certificates of deposit and high-yield savings accounts are paying more than 5%, and the recent yield on oneyear Treasury bills topped 5.3%.

Yields on Treasury inflation-protected securities (TIPS) — government securities that are indexed to the rate of inflation — are also attractive now, according to David Enna, founder of Tipswatch.com, a website that focuses on I bonds and TIPS. But I bonds may still provide some benefits for long-term investors, particularly those issued between May and October 2023. And cashing in your I bonds may mean giving up some interest — if you can cash them in at all.

I bonds consist of two components: an inflation rate, which is based on the consumer price index and is adjusted every six months from the bond’s issue date, and a fixed rate that remains the same for the life of the bond (up to 30 years).

You can’t redeem an I bond in the first year, and if you cash it in before five years have passed, you’ll forfeit the most recent three months of interest. (If you check your bond’s value at TreasuryDirect.gov within the first five years of owning it, the threemonth penalty is subtracted from it.)

Weigh your options With that penalty in mind, if you’ve owned an I bond for longer than a year but less than

Charity From page 19 table distribution. The 1099-R will show only the total amount of distributions made from the IRA for 2023.

When filling out your 2023 Form 1040 or 1040-SR, you would include the total distribution amount on line 4a of the 1040.

Then subtract the qualified charitable distribution and report the remainder, even if $0, on line 4b. Write “QCD” next to line 4b. If filing electronically, a drop-down box for line 4 should give you a choice to click QCD. Note: This item first appeared in Kiplinger Retirement Report, a popular monthly periodical that covers key concerns of affluent older Americans who are retired or preparing for retirement. Subscribe for retirement advice. © 2023 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

five years, is it worth redeeming the bond — which means giving up some of the interest you’ve earned — so you can reinvest the money in a higher-yielding investment?

The answer depends on your goals, when you bought the I bond, and the fixed rate for the bond, Enna said.

For example, if you bought one in October 2022 — when many investors snapped up I bonds to capture the 9.62% rate for six months before the rate reset — your optimal redemption date is January 1, 2024.

The reason: Those bonds earn a 0% fixed rate and transitioned in October 2023 to a composite rate of 3.38%, which is well below what you can get from shortterm Treasuries.

If you wait to cash in the bond until three months after the rate resets, the interest penalty will apply entirely to the 3.38% rate, rather than some portion of the penalty ap-

plying at the higher 6.48% rate that the bond earned during the previous six months.

For I bonds purchased in September 2022, the optimal redemption date is December 1, 2023; for bonds purchased in August 2022, the optimal redemption date is November 1, 2023.

For I bonds purchased in November 2022 through April 2023 — which can now be redeemed — the inflation-adjusted rate announced on November 1 was 3.94%. Since those bonds carry a 0.4% fixed rate, you may or may not want to hold onto them.

Likewise, you may want to hold on to I bonds issued between May and October 2023, even if the new six-month inflationadjusted rate is underwhelming. Those I bonds have a fixed rate of 0.9%, which is the highest fixed rate in 16 years. No matter what happens to inflation in the future, you’ll lock in that rate for as long as you own the bonds.

“If you have a very attractive fixed rate, hold on to it as long as possible,” Enna said. © 2023 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 3

PHOTO BY MOUNTAIN LAKE LODGE

Travel Leisure &

23

Stay in the lodge where the 1987 film Dirty Dancing was filmed. See story on page 24.

Street food, friendly people in Osaka, Japan

Osaka’s street food scene Our hotel was located next to the airport bus terminal, subway and railroad stops.

More importantly, it was only a short walk to Dotonburi, the heart of the nightlife and street food scene.

Once a thriving theater district, the primary attractions now are wall-to-wall crowds of people, and prominent, almost hallucinatory, signage above the many restaurants that line the promenade — including a giant crab, a large cow and a sea serpent.

One could just find a place to sit, gaze at the neon and watch the people streaming by. But I was there for the food.

Our first stop was at one of the many stalls selling takoyaki, doughy dumplings stuffed with bits of octopus, which are synonymous with Osaka street food. I nibbled carefully at the molten hot ball of dough before wolfing it down.

At my wife’s urging, we moved on to a conveyor-belt sushi restaurant for our next course. If you are not familiar with the concept, you sit at a counter as a conveyor belt whisks all manner of sushi past.

You have to make a split-second decision as to whether or not you want the particular morsel whizzing by and grab it before it passes out of reach. The effect is not unlike a buffet or smorgasbord where the pull of something new and different leads to serious overeating.

Over the next three days, I continued my research on Osaka street food, including okonomiyaki, a savory pancake filled with meat, vegetables and whatever else the chef decides to throw in. I also visited (twice!) a

PHOTO © KHIM WAI WOON | DREAMSTIME.COM

By Don Mankin “Why go to Osaka?” a fellow travel writer asked at an annual adventure travel conference.

Another travel writer spoke up: “It’s the only place in Japan with soul.”

My wife, Katherine, and I were attending the conference in Sapporo, Japan, and looking for a place to visit afterward. I’ve toured Tokyo and Kyoto, hiked the Kumano Kodo trail, and visited the southernmost island of Kyushu.

I was looking for someplace new to explore. Osaka, like Tokyo, is huge and sprawling. It’s the third largest city in Japan and is often considered its economic hub.

Osaka is also a major port and is, therefore, one of the most culturally diverse cities in the country. It’s more workingclass than Tokyo, and according to several of my travel writer colleagues, the people are friendlier and more outgoing.

And most importantly, Osaka has a reputation for great street food. That’s all I needed to know! We were going to Osaka.

PHOTO BY DON MANKIN

Katherine Mankin, the author’s wife, feeds a wild fawn in pastoral Nara Park, a 30minute drive from Osaka, known for its herd of docile, but hungry, deer.

The landmark Osaka Castle rises over Japan’s third largest city, reminding people of its long history. Located six hours southwest of Tokyo, Osaka is worth a visit for its architecture, world-class aquarium and street food scene.

stall that sold one of my favorite hand-held desserts, a sweet bun sliced in half with a slab of vanilla ice cream in the middle.

get there (you can take an elevator, but it takes at least half an hour’s wait to get on).

Nara’s wild deer World’s largest aquarium Of course, we did more than just eat.

The city’s famous world-class aquarium is a must-see both for its impressive setting and unique architecture.

Located on the bay, the aquarium claims the title of world’s largest aquarium. Visitors walk down a ramp descending from the top floor, winding around a huge, multistoried tank filled with all kinds of fish and aquatic mammals, including a whale shark.

The outer rim of the ramp features tanks with animals from various natural environments around the Pacific Rim, including Japan, the Aleutian Islands, Panama, the Great Barrier Reef and Antarctica.

Another attraction was Osaka Castle, one of Japan’s most famous landmarks.

The current castle, a reconstruction of the original built in the late 16th century, looms over a moat. Inside is a museum that traces the history of the castle and the critical battles that played a major role in the unification of Japan.

The observation deck at the top of the castle offers a 360-degree view of the city.

It’s well worth climbing seven stories to

From Osaka, it’s just a 45-minute subway ride to Nara — a relatively small, walkable city that was the capital of Japan in the 8th century.

One of Nara’s main draws is the herds of wild deer that roam city parks looking for snacks from accommodating tourists.

Park vendors sell special “deer crackers” made of wheat flour and rice bran. The deer can get a bit pushy, gently nudging visitors for yet another snack.

We saw more than a couple of kids cringing and crying because of the insistent deer. It’s a fun thing to do for a while, but the novelty soon wears off.

For me, the main attraction of Nara, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was the ancient temples, shrines and Japanese gardens throughout the city.

My favorite was Todai-ji Temple, which contains one of the largest Buddhas in the world, close to five stories high. I could have spent hours wandering from one temple, shrine and garden to another.

Leafy, green and peaceful, with a bit of See OSAKA, page 25

24

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D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 3 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

For nature lovers and Dirty Dancing fans

Resort’s setting, amenities The history alone is enticing. In the early 1800s, a wooden hotel was built to serve as a stagecoach stop. Following several reincarnations, a businessman purchased the property and, in 1936, erected the sprawling stone lodge that still stands.

Today, the resort is owned by a foundation that preserves its role as a place where peo-

ple can forge a close connection with nature.

There are 24 miles of hiking trails of varying degrees of challenge. Birdwatchers can explore the tranquil hemlock forest and marsh bog nearby. Guided tours reveal hidden areas of the property.

The resort clings proudly to its past.

Hallways are lined with historic photographs and memorabilia, and cottages built during the early 1900s have been refurbished to serve as accommodations. Stone benches from that time are scattered about the campus to provide rest and respite.

Those seats come in handy for guests seeking a bit of R&R after taking advantage of the resort’s eclectic A-to-Z choice of recreational alternatives, from art classes to zip lining.

Escape rooms challenge the ingenuity of those who venture into them, and a ropes course tests their bravery and balance.

An onsite shooting range, Clays at the Overlook, offers rifle shooting at moving targets, and lessons are available for a fee to help beginners score a bullseye.

Other opportunities close to the resort include fishing, kayaking and canoeing, river rafting and golfing.

What happened to the lake?

Not long ago, the on-site lake itself offered a choice of water-related opportuni-

PHOTO BY MOUNTAIN LAKE LODGE

By Victor Block It didn’t take long after arriving at Mountain Lake Lodge in Pembroke, Virginia, to realize that, despite the resort’s name, it has no lake. What it does offer guests is a long, colorful list of activities that can fill many a day.

Then there’s that not-so-secret reason many people go there: Most of the popular 1987 movie Dirty Dancing, which supposedly took place at a vacation retreat in New York’s Catskill Mountains, was filmed at the Virginia lodge.

Taking advantage of the almost cult-like following the motion picture spawned, Mountain Lake Lodge stages a series of special weekends focused on the film.

During our recent visit, my wife, Fyllis, and I combined an immersion in the movie’s mystique with a sampling of other things to do and see on the resort’s 2,600acre spread.

You don’t have to be a Dirty Dancing fan to enjoy a stay at the Mountain Lake Lodge in Pembroke, Virginia, where the movie was filmed 36 years ago. Situated on 2,600 acres, the resort offers many activities, including ziplining, art classes and archery.

ties. Geologists explain that Mountain Lake was formed about 6,000 years ago by rock slide dams.

It’s the only body of water in the world that goes through natural periodic cycles of draining through leak holes, and then refilling as those openings are plugged by sediment.

While the lake bed was empty when Fyllis and I were there, it’s famous for another reason. During the making of Dirty Dancing, Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey

practiced “the lift” there — the most famous part of a dance routine at the end of the film. The location is identified by one of a number of signs that mark spots where scenes were filmed.

The resort’s special Dirty Dancing weekends, which are held throughout the year, attract both first-time participants and fans who, I learned, have watched the movie as many as 50 times.

See MT. LAKE LODGE, page 25

Makes a great gift! | Leisure & Travel

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 3

Osaka From page 23 wildlife, Nara may well be my favorite destination in Japan.

Welcoming, outgoing people As for Osaka, the street food was tasty, the aquarium was great, the castle was imposing and Nara was charming. But maybe the best thing about the city was the people.

Almost everywhere we went, people smiled and asked us where we were from and engaged us in what passes for conversation when one party speaks little English and the other speaks no Japanese at all, aside from Konnichiwa (hello) and Arigato (thank you). Smiles and gestures said a lot.

Nowhere was this spirit more evident

Mt. Lake Lodge From page 24 At a costume contest, Hollywood wannabes dress up like various actors.

Dance lessons introduce some of the moves that gave the movie its name, and games like a scavenger hunt and trivia quiz separate diehard groupies from less dedicated devotees.

The weekend warriors we met told us that a Dirty Dancing sequel is in the works, written by and starring Jennifer Grey. It’s not yet known when filming at the site will take place.

Not a resort to be satisfied with its film fame, Mountain Lake Lodge also offers other themed events: Independence and Mother’s Day celebrations, football weekends, craft beer tastings and Thanksgiving and Christmas fetes.

Even if the inventory of special occasions doesn’t tempt a visit to Mountain Lake Lodge, the beautiful setting and relaxing campus may do so. Fyllis and I re-

than at the jam session in Jazz Bar 845, a jazz club close to our hotel, which we discovered on the last night of our visit.

Everyone welcomed us, asked where we were from, and loved my stories about seeing the giants of jazz in my youth — Coltrane, Miles and Rahsaan, among many others — when I haunted the clubs of Philadelphia. I was even invited to sing at the open mic. (Fortunately for all concerned, I demurred. I have a lousy voice and can’t carry a tune.)

My travel writer colleagues who described Osaka’s people as friendly and outgoing were totally right.

If you go Round-trip airfare from Baltimore/Washington area airports runs about $2,000.

We stayed at the Hotel Monterey Gras-

turned home with fond memories and the hope of returning in the future to create more of them.

mere Osaka. Rooms start at about $150 per night. Rooms at the nearby Agora Place Osaka Namba are about $110 for a standard double.

In addition to street food, we also ate at several restaurants, including at Sushitojizakeigossou, a sushi bar near the hotel.

Very little English is spoken there.

My favorite meal was at a tiny restau-

25

rant, Senzou, down an alley a couple of blocks from the hotel, which served platters of beef cooked on a charcoal grill in front of us. Little English was spoken there as well.

For mor e infor mation on Osaka, see osaka-info.jp/en. For a self-guided walking tour in and around Nara, see bit.ly/Nara5days.

BEACON BITS

Ongoing EMERGENCY STATUS HOTLINE

Keep track of bad weather, power outages and other safety concerns this winter by calling the county’s Emergency Status Hotline at (410) 313-7777.

LET’S DO LUNCH

Ongoing Eat a nutritious lunch with friends or make new ones at a Howard County 50+ Center five days a week. Bain, Ellicott City, Elkridge, Glenwood and North Laurel offer nutritious lunches five days a week. To reserve a meal, sign up in advance at the front desk. Anyone under 60 must purchase a meal ticket or five-meal punch card at the front desk. People over age 60 and their spouses can give a confidential donation in lieu of payment. Find out more at the front desk of your local 50+ Center.

If you go Mountain Lake Lodge is about a fivehour drive from Columbia, Maryland.

Accommodations include the historic lodge building and cottages located around the property.

Nightly rates begin at $199, and prices for the all-inclusive Dirty Dancing weekends start at $499 a night per person.

Meals in the Harvest Dining Room, where some Dirty Dancing scenes were filmed, offer a farm-to-table experience using locally sourced ingredients. A meat and cheese charcuterie board, listed as a “small plate,” was enough to share ($18).

Cast iron chicken ($21) and sesame seedcrusted salmon ($23) were among other entrée alternatives.

For more information, call (540) 6267121 or visit mtnlakelodge.com.

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BEACON BITS

Dec. 3

STREAM CLEANUP

Join volunteers for the Patapsco Heritage Greenway for a stream cleanup event at Southwest Area Park in Landsdowne. The cleanup takes place on Sun., Dec. 3 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Volunteers should wear warm, layered clothing and bring a water bottle. The park is located at 3939 Klunk Dr. Lansdowne, MD. Registration is required at patapsco.org or bit.ly/SouthwestAreaPark.

Dec. 11

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IT TAKES A VILLAGE

What’s a village and how can it help older adults? Village volunteers provide rides to appointments, grocery shop, pick up prescriptions, make minor home repairs, call or visit older adults and more. Find out what your local village does at a free information session about The Village of Howard. Stop by the Howard County Central Library, 10375 Little Patuxent Pkwy., Columbia, at 1:30 p.m. on Mon., Dec. 11. For more information, visit thevillageinhoward.org or call (443) 367-9043.

WALK IN THE PARK

Ongoing Get some exercise and meet new people. Every Monday morning at 9:30, walk around the park surrounding the East Columbia Library, 6600 Cradlerock Way, Columbia. Wear walking shoes and bring a water bottle. All are welcome. For more information, call (410) 313-7700.

See our full assortment of tours + a sneak peak at 2024 trips in our NEW Vacations Catalog!

Request one today!

www.eyretours.com/signup • (410) 442-6872

26

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D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 3 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

Style Arts &

Prisoners in Jessup can take classes toward a college degree. Our cover story continues on page 28.

Miracle at Toby’s parades holiday spirit

J

young Marine-turned-lawyer Fred Gaily (Jeffrey Shankle), businessman R.H. Macy (Jordan B. Stocksdale), and finally the store psychologist Mr. Sawyer (Shane Lowry).

All of these individuals, to one degree or another, must learn more about the spirit of Christmas from a man claiming to be Santa Claus himself. Yet will society at large begin to question Kris Kringle’s sanity?

Broadway-style numbers The musical Miracle on 34th Street was written and composed by Meredith Willson, and there is much of the “Seventy-Six Trombones” parading sound of Willson’s more famous 1957 musical, The Music Man, in several numbers. “(Ya Got) Trouble in River City” aligns with “She Hadda Go Back,” performed energetically by Shankle as Fred Gaily, who as a young lawyer must take up the unenviable legal case that the Santa in Macy’s toy department is “the one and only Santa Claus.”

The tunes are more Broadway than Christmas-oriented, yet there is also holiday fare here, namely Willson’s Christmas anthem, “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas,” sung brightly in chorus by the

12 M

10

PHOTO BY JERI TIDWELL PHOTOGRAPHY

By Mark Dreisonstok It all started when Robert Biedermann did his regular “warm-up” routine at Toby’s Dinner Theatre, dressed in a sparkling Santa suit with a twinkle in his eye. Who else of Toby’s coterie of actors could better play Kris Kringle in the musical version of Miracle on 34th Street and bring such sincerity and warmth to the role?

The show, directed superbly by Shawn Kettering and choreographed skillfully by Mark Minnick, is of course based on the popular 1947 holiday film of the same name. The musical version of the film had its Broadway premiere in 1963.

The play begins with a Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade, including clowns, majorettes, a snowman, and finally a Santa Claus on sleigh (Biedermann) charging through Toby’s theatre-in-the-round.

Kris Kringle, hired to play Santa Claus for Macy’s Department store, will soon meet and in some cases confront store manager Doris Walker (played with passionate cynicism by Heather Marie Beck), her disbelieving daughter Susan (Hazel Vogel, who alternates with Audrey Wolff for some performances),

Hazel Vogel plays the dubious Susan, interrogating Robert Biedermann as Santa, in the musical Miracle on 34th Street, playing at Toby’s Dinner Theatre through January 7.

ensemble. (An older carol, “Adeste Fidelis,” is also performed, at Kris Kringle’s insistence.)

Talented newcomer Hazel Vogel performs the part of Susan wonderfully, and

duets warmly with Biedermann on “Expect Things to Happen,” as the young girl slowly begins to believe in Santa Claus.

See MIRACLE ON 34TH ST., page 27

Columbia Pro Cantare 47th Season Concerts

“HANDEL: MESSIAH”

Sunday, Dec. 3, 7:30 p.m.

Pre-Concert Lecture, 6:30 p.m.

Amy van Roekel, soprano MaryAnn McCormick, mezzo Charles Reid, tenor Lester Lynch, baritone Festival Orchestra Henry Lowe, organ Laura Lee Fischer, conductor Jim Rouse Theatre | 5460 Trumpeter Rd. • Columbia, MD 21044

TobysDinnerTheatre.com

“A Christmas Noël” with the CPC Chamber Singers Sunday, Dec. 10, 3 p.m.

Christ Episcopal Church, Columbia, MD

Information & Tickets: www.procantare.org

Makes a great gift! | Arts & Style

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 3

PHOTO BY JERI TIDWELL PHOTOGRAPHY

The talented cast of Miracle on 34th Street performs songs written by American composer Meredith Willson, famous for the 1951 hit, “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas,” and for 1957’s The Music Man.

Miracle on 34th St. From page 26

Doris/Heather performs with a lovely voice in the selection “You Don’t Know.”

Cynical about life and love, Doris also begins to believe again in love as Gaily enters her life. (Indeed, the original 1963 Broadway incarnation of Willson’s show was entitled Here’s Life.)

David James has a delightful comic turn singing “Plastic Alligators” as Marvin Shellhammer, a Macy’s manager who must rid himself of an enormous overstock of plastic alligator toys he purchased. (For those who have seen the original film countless times, there are moments like this added to the musical to offer freshness to the story.)

Shane Lowry as Mr. Sawyer, David Bosley-Reynolds as the Judge, and Patrick Gover as Mr. Gimbel all perform supporting parts with a talented mix of humor and seriousness.

Live band, period costumes The six-piece band at Toby’s (conducted variously by Ross Scott Rawlings and Nathan Scavilla, depending on the performance) is excellent. As usual at Toby’s, it seems as if a small orchestra is playing.

Period costumes by Sarah King are spot-on and provide a clever ambiguity between the 1940s (when the film is set) and

the early 1960s (when the Broadway musical takes place).

The scenic design of David A. Hopkins and the lighting design by Lynn Joslin work together to full advantage in order to accentuate the holiday atmosphere of the production, including the “snow” that descends on the stage from the ceiling.

Toby’s production of Miracle on 34th Street is not only entertaining holiday fare but carries a deeper message while “dashing through the snow.”

As Doris eventually learns, “Faith is believing when common sense tells you not to.” To rephrase that idea in more religious terms for the season, “Faith is…the evidence of things not seen,” (Hebrews 11:1).

Miracle on 34th Street is a family-friendly production that runs through January 7.

Toby’s is located at 5900 Symphony Woods Rd. in Columbia. Advance reservations are required.

Performances take place Tuesday through Sunday nights, with matinees on Wednesday and Sunday at 12:30 p.m. (buffet brunch for matinees opens at 10:30 a.m.).

Tickets are $74-$79 for adults and $57-$60 for children 12 and under. All tickets include an all-you-can-eat buffet (brunch or dinner).

Those 65 and over may attend any Tuesday or Wednesday performance for $62.90.

Tickets may be purchased from Ticketmaster or by phone from the box office at (410) 730-8311 or via tobysdinnertheatre.com.

BEACON BITS

Ongoing BRAIN TEASERS Games and puzzles can sharpen the mind. A group gathers every Thursday at 12:30 p.m. to work together or solo on brain teasers. Stop by the Bain 50+ Center at 5470 Ruth Keeton Way, Columbia. For more information, call

27

BEACON BITS

Dec. 16

HOLIDAY CONCERT

Dec. 3

COMMUNITY PUZZLE SWAP

Get in the holiday spirit with a Columbia Orchestra concert featuring music from Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker, carols, Hanukkah songs and Holiday Pops tunes. Two performances will take place at the Jim Rouse Theatre on Sat., Dec. 16 at 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Tickets are $20 for adults, and children 12 and under are free. Buy tickets at columbiaorchestra.org or by calling (410) 465-8777.

Bring your old puzzles or gently used board games to the Central Library on Sun., Dec. 3 to swap them for others. Drop in anytime between 1:30 and 3 p.m. at the Central Branch, 10375 Little Patuxent Pkwy., Columbia, (410) 313-7800. No registration required.

! "

# # $ % & '

A Network of Professionals Dedicated to Serving Older Adults Our members enjoy: • Monthly Networking Meetings • Social Gatherings • Directory & Website Advertising • Professional Development Programming

(410) 313-7213.

Dec. 13

CHRISTMAS LUNCH Stop by the Bain 50+ Center for a Christmas lunch celebration on

Wed., Dec. 13 at noon. The center is located at 5470 Ruth Keeton Way, Columbia. For details, call (410) 313-7213.

To review our complete menu of marketing opportunities, visit cogsmd.org.

Prospective members are welcome to attend one meeting as our guest.

To register, email info@cogsmd.org.

28

Arts & Style | Subscribe online! See how on p. 30

From page 1 That was a real turning point in my life,” Howard said.

Howard, who had been working as a professor of European politics at Georgetown University, decided to devote his life to helping people in prison. He earned his J.D. degree from Georgetown Law and is now a professor of government and law at the university.

“I completely changed my direction and orientation, and now do everything I can to help support people in prison to a success-

ful social reentry, and overturning wrongful convictions.”

Thanks in part to Howard’s efforts, the charges against Tankleff were dismissed, and he was freed in 2008 — after 17 years in prison.

For the past six years, Howard and Tankleff have seen each other almost every day. Both now professors at Georgetown, they jointly teach a course called Making an Exoneree.

In the class, university students reinvestigate cases and advocate for people they believe were wrongly convicted. Since the course launched in 2018, students have

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helped free seven people.

The Prisons and Justice Initiative’s staff of 20 works on several fronts. First, they send Georgetown professors to teach in person at the D.C. Jail via the Prison Scholars program, which also began in 2018.

They also offer a five-year bachelor’s degree to incarcerated people through a program that started in 2022. So far, about 75 students are working toward a Georgetown University degree from behind bars.

PJI/GEORGETOWN

Second chance

D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 3 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

Rejoining society Even with a Georgetown degree, it can be difficult to land that first job when you have a prison record. So, the initiative also focuses on supporting people’s re-entry into society.

Two training programs have helped dozens of people: a paralegal course and a business startup course (called the Pivot Program).

One graduate of the paralegal program, Kenard Johnson, studied six days a week while he was in prison. He worked hard to earn his certificate from Georgetown Law School. “It challenged me to my core,” Johnson said.

Johnson now works as a paralegal specialist at the D.C. Office of the Attorney General’s Office of Consumer Protection, helping victims of fraud get their money back.

“I go to work every day for the small man,” Johnson said. He has also self-published a book of poetry, which he started writing while he was incarcerated.

‘Common humanity’ Howard, now 52, hasn’t slowed down.

He wants to enable more people to interact with those behind bars, as Roland does.

To that end, in 2020 Howard founded the nonprofit Frederick Douglass Project, which “brings members of the free community into prisons to meet and engage with, and connect with, incarcerated peo-

Neil Roland

ple,” he explained. So far, nine states have joined the Frederick Douglass Project.

“I’m very committed to expanding that program and to allowing people across the country to have the opportunity to visit a prison and engage with the humanity of incarcerated people,” Howard said.

“Everything that I do is to try to reinforce that theme of common humanity — recognizing that incarcerated or formerly incarcerated people are just like us.”

As for Roland, he’s still teaching at the jail every Friday. He started with a class of only four people, and now his classes have as many as 25 students.

Going to the jail each week is no longer a jarring experience; in fact, Roland looks forward to it. “I’m accustomed to having prison doors close behind me — [hearing] the finality of that sound — and interacting with inmates,” Roland said.

“I’ve taught junior high school, high school, college and graduate school. But the older students behind bars [have] the highest motivation I’ve encountered anywhere,” he said. They are hungry to learn “because they know this is their ticket out — not only out, but to a better life.”

BEACON BITS CARS AND COFFEE Dec. 3+ CLASSIC Do you love classic cars? Chat with others and show off your MG, Morgan, Sprite or any classic car on the first and third Sunday of every month, weather permitting. Stop by and say hi with your ride on Dec. 3 or Dec. 17 from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. Meet in in Parking Lot D behind the Howard County Visitors Center, 8267 Main St., Ellicott City. For more information, join the Facebook group called “Historic Ellicott City Cars & Coffee” or just stop by.

All are welcome at these free meetups.

FROM PAGE 30 ANSWERS TO SCRABBLE

ANSWERS TO CROSSWORD G A S P B A I L O P T E D O N T O I N C A N E H R U G O I N T R E E D O T I S F I R S T H A N D S O U R C E E E E G O O P A T S E A T C O R P E P A S E C O N D S E T O F E Y E S A N O E D G E S E C T O N E T H I R D O F A F O O T L O A D L O S G S A R O B S R T S S S E H E R F O U R T H F I N G E R A T A L L E R I E A L D A W I F I C U E D M U T E D S P I T K E N S E P E E S

Makes a great gift! | Arts & Style

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 3

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Cookbooks for creativity in the kitchen Relax and rest easy this season. Here’s ex- art and has been a food-magazine editor. pert advice on preparing your holiday feasts. She is a recipe developer and trained chef.

Check out her blog, TaraTeaDelicious Gatherings: spoon.com.

Recipes to Celebrate Together, by Tara Bench, The Ultimate Tailgating 260 pages, Shadow MounPlaybook: 75 Recipes that tain hardcover, 2022 Win Every Time, by Russ This cookbook offers 105 T. Fender, 192 pages, recipes for brunch, dinner, Union Square & Co. papercookout and buffet-style back, 2022 meals. Occasions such as These recipes are perfectly Thanksgiving feast, mezze suited for whenever you have dinner party and Tex Mex fi- THE to feed a group buffet-style — esta are covered, accompa- BIBLIOPHILE at home, tailgating, on a picnic, nied by 100 full-page color By Dinah Rokach at the beach or park. The 75 photographs. In the back, recipes are organized by chapthere’s an ingenious index featuring a ter: bread, pizza, dips, salsa, salads, soups, small photo of each dish. burgers, hot dogs, ribs, desserts and drinks.

For Thanksgiving, the recipe for classic Most of the dishes serve eight people. turkey in pieces eschews preparing the Learn how to prepare Mississippi mud whole turkey. Instead, cut the bird into five cheesecake, grilled cheese bubble bread, parts and follow the clever instructions. This walking tacos, popcorn chicken, beer-can technique enhances the flavor; the individual chicken and cowboy cookies.

The no-bake eclair cake is one of the parts cook more evenly and faster. The recipe serves 10 to 12, and the total prepara- many entries that can be made in advance.

Twenty drink recipes feature these entiction time is two hours and 15 minutes.

To complete the holiday meal, Delicious ing names: flannel shirt, beergaritas and Gatherings offers recipes for dinner rolls, marychelada. fresh orange-cranberry sauce, turkey stock More than 80 color illustrations show and gravy, sausage stuffing, a variety of side you how to arrange the most appetizing dishes and 19 desserts. presentations. Tips accompanying many Tara Bench worked with Martha Stew- recipes explain how to prepare them in ad-

vance and reheat them on the grill.

Fender recommends equipment, and lists 13 essential items for tailgating. He provides instructions on safety and proper cleaning. Learn how to use a grill as a stove or an oven, how to achieve desired temperatures, and how to properly pack a cooler. There’s a handy index at the back.

Become the MVP of the parking lot with the most elaborate and creative spread.

Vegetarian Salad for Dinner: Inventive Plant-Forward Meals, by Jeanne Kelley, 224 pages, Rizzoli International Publications hardcover, 2023 Make all your guests feel welcome, no matter their dietary inclinations. The book divides 80 salad recipes into these categories: classic, grain, pulse (meaning beans, lentils and peas), salads with seeds (notably quinoa), pasta salads, bread salads, roasted and toasted salads.

More than half are gluten-free or include a gluten-free variation, and 27 are vegan or are accompanied by a vegan option. Kelley also concocts vegetarian versions of classic recipes such as chicken salad.

As the title Vegetarian Salad for Dinner indicates, the dishes serve as main courses. Different recipes are meant to serve from two to eight people, but are predominantly for four. You can easily recalibrate them to serve as side dishes.

More than 90 color photographs by Gemma and Andrew Ingalls illustrate the recipes. Knowing how to arrange a dish is a key element in salad presentations, lest you serve an unappealing heap of vegetables on a plate.

The cookbook commences with a glossary describing 25 salad greens, and the last chapter covers 13 toppings, sauces and spreads. A helpful index of recipes and ingredients is at the back.

The recipes themselves include advice on shopping, preparing and storing ingredients. Alas, there are no calorie counts, nor is nutritional information provided.

Jeanne Kelley is a food stylist, recipe creator, author of six cookbooks and contributor to Bon Appétit magazine. She’s an edible garden expert who specializes in seasonal and sustainable cooking.

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

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D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 3 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

Crossword Puzzle Find a new crossword every day on our website at www.TheBeaconNewspapers.com/puzzles.

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Across

71. Numerous characters in Barbie

1. Respond to a thriller’s twist 5. Temporary release from jail 9. Made a choice 14. “The best thing to hold ___ is each other” (Audrey Hepburn) 15. Machu Picchu builder 16. Jacket style the Beatles wore in 1965 17. Singer Redding, who died in a 1967 plane crash 18. Enter 19. Full of firs 20. One who witnessed history 23. Shoe width that sounds like a screech 24. Sludge 25. @@@@@ 26. Fed. org. with a flower in its logo 29. “Let them ___ cake” 31. Business org.

33. Reviewer 39. Religious offshoot 40. “Gimme ___” (start of an Occidental College cheer) 41. Outer limit 42. Four inches 47. Fill up the moving van 48. Name part with Alamos or Angeles 49. Org. that manages Fed. properties 50. General dir. of I-75 from Atlanta to Miami 52. Actors Lowe and Schneider 55. NFL linemen who do not protect the blind side 57. Where the groom touches the bride 63. “... ___ dark stranger” 64. The spookiest sounding of the great lakes 65. Emmy and Tony winner, Alan 66. Silenced 67. 21st century tech.

68. Prompted 69. Fencing swords 70. “You don’t ___ into the wind”

1. Blunder 2. Prefix for -freeze and -fog 3. Prepare pancake batter 4. Deputy’s dawgs 5. What a narcissist has 6. Small buffalo 7. Cinnamon roll section 8. Old pal of Han Solo 9. Above 10. South American nation with good sunset views 11. Canine companion 12. Construct 13. Gentlemen 21. Any of the Mutant Ninja Turtles 22. South Coast, to the trendy 26. Exxon predecessor 27. Rounded end of a hammer 28. Use one of the foot pedals 30. Russian ruler 32. Snorkeler’s spot 34. Diplomat, von Bismarck 35. Be at wits’ ___ 36. Tree branch, to an elephant 37. Self-images 38. “Siri, ___ reminder for noon” 43. Partners of Maude and Kumar 44. “U do me, and ___” 45. Lose without even playing 46. Italian wine town 50. Mortify 51. Enter the initial parameters 53. Makes regular or decaf 54. Remove all the sheets 56. Eat between meals 58. Run away!

59. 20th century tech.

60. Add details to a diorama 61. Genesis setting 62. X-ray units

Down

Answers on page 28.

Makes a great gift!

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 3

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; Legal Services; Miscellaneous; Personals; Personal Services; Vacation Opportunities; and Wanted. For submission guidelines and deadlines, see the box on the right.

CAVEAT EMPTOR! The Beacon does not knowingly accept obscene, offensive, harmful, or fraudulent advertising. However, we do not investigate any advertisers or their products and cannot accept responsibility for the integrity of either.

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EMPLOYMENT & REAL ESTATE ADS: We will not knowingly or intentionally accept advertising in violation of federal, state, and local laws prohibiting discrimination based on race, color, national origin, sex, familial status or handicap in connection with employment or the sale or rental of real estate.

Business & Employment Opportunities PART-TIME HORSE FAM HELP NEEDED SE Montgomery County (near Burtonsville, Silver Spring 20904, 20905). Saturdays in particular, turn out and bring in 20 horses, clean stalls, fill hay bags, water. Miscellaneous tasks. $20/hour. Telephone 301-421-1252.

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HOW TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED AD All classified ads must be submitted and paid for online, via our website, www.thebeaconnewspapers.com/classifieds Deadlines and Payments: To appear in the next issue, your ad text and payment must be entered by the 5th of the preceding month (for Baltimore and Howard County editions); by the 20th (for Washington edition).

Cost will be based on the number of characters and spaces in your ad: • $25 for 1-250 • $35 for 251-500. • $50 for 501-750 (maximum length).

The website will calculate this for you.

Note: Maryland contractors must provide a valid MHIC number. • Each real estate listing qualifies as one ad. • All ads are subject to publisher’s discretion.

Payment will be refunded if unacceptable for any reason.

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

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18-SH-004233

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Events Howard Co. Recreation & Parks14-15

Financial Services/ Insurance Edward Jones . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 UnitedHealthcare Dual Complete . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Funeral Services Cremation Society of Maryland . .12 Going Home Cremation . . . . . . . .28 Harry H. Witzke’s Family Funeral Home, Inc. . . . . . . . . .19 MacNabb Funeral Home . . . . . . .12 Sol Levinson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20

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Housing Brooke Grove . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32 Carnegie at Washington Center . . .3 Charlestown/Erickson . . . . . . . . .10 Enterprise Residential . . . . . . . . .21 Heartlands Senior Living . . . . . . . .6 Homecrest House . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Lutheran Village at Millers Grant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

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Senior/Government Services COGS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27

Howard Co. 50+ Connection . . . . . . . . .16-17 Maryland Relay . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 Oasis Senior Advisors . . . . . . . . . .8 RTA/Transportation . . . . . . . . . . .24

Theater/ Entertainment Columbia Pro Cantare . . . . . . . . .26 Encore Creativity . . . . . . . . . . . . .27 Toby’s Dinner Theatre . . . . . . . . .26

Travel Eyre Tour & Travel . . . . . . . . . . . .25 Howard Co. Recreation & Parks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14-15

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D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 3 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

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330130 001

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