October 2013 Howard County Beacon Edition by The Beacon Newspapers

The Howard County

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Retirees give show biz a whirl

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PHOTO BY CHRISTOPHER MEYERS

By Robert Friedman Ellie Rose of Mt. Airy takes the audience over the rainbow as she gazes at a photo of Clark Gable and sings “You Made Me Love You.” Bob Hoke of Columbia, singing “Inka Dinka Doo,” keeps ordering the band to “stop the music,” then signs off by saying good night to Mrs. Calibash, wherever she is. Ann Henry of Ellicott City, wrapped in a blue feathered gown and black boa, huskily invites the men in the audience to “come up and see me sometime.” It’s show time for the Fabulous 50+ Players of Howard County. At least, it soon will be, as the troupe of 11 women and seven men get ready for their 2013 fall season. The performers, most in their 60s and 70s, are rehearsing Mondays at the Howard County Arts Center in Ellicott City for two shows this season: a revival of their highly popular vaudeville review, and a night of nostalgic songs called Our (as opposed to Your) Hit Parade. Phyllis Stanley, the troupe’s music director since its inception in 2000 and now also its stage director, noted that the 7 to 9 p.m. Monday rehearsals could turn out to be auditions for any Howard County senior bitten by the show biz bug. Just come to the rehearsal, take to the stage, and do your thing. Stanley said the group is especially seeking singers.

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Taking the show on the road

Members of the Fabulous 50+ Players rehearse “Give My Regards to Broadway” as part of a production they will take to senior centers this fall. From left to right are Chuck Knauf, Shirley Bishop, Ann Henry, Paula Rehr, Jackie Dunphy and Audrey Sanders. Other numbers feature stand-ins for Mae West, Jimmy Durante, Fanny Brice and other stars of yesteryear.

While past performances were staged at the arts center, the Fabulous 50+ Players are taking their show on the road this year, Stanley said. So far, the group’s schedule calls for daytime performances at the North Laurel Senior Center on Nov. 20, where reasonable facsimiles of Judy Garland, Jimmy Durante, Mae West, Eddie Cantor, the Dolly Sisters, Bert Williams, Fanny Brice and others will perform a vaudeville show; at the Ellicott City Senior Center on Dec. 13, where Our Hit Parade brings back memories from the 1930s, ‘40s, ‘50s and ‘60s through melodies of the times; and at the Elkridge Senior Center on Dec. 18, where holiday songs will celebrate the season. Stanley, 67, also teaches a creative arts

course at Howard County Community College and has directed musical programs around the county. She says she enjoys putting older performers on stage and bringing show biz to senior audiences for “the love of it.” Among other things, she has seen young people who have come to past shows “inspired about how energetic the older people are.” Some in the audience may suffer from various stages of Alzheimer’s, but they are quick to remember all the words to the songs of their youth, Stanley noted. “The songs are associated with certain deep memories, and people in the audience often cry when hearing them again,” she said.

For performers and audiences alike, the acting, the singing and the remembering is “so therapeutic,” she said.

Onstage as Mae West Ann Henry, who retired after many years working in ob/gyn offices, now seduces audiences as Mae West. She was “always fascinated” by show business, Henry said. Once one of the tap-dancing Golden Girls, who perform around the county, she said she didn’t have the nerve to do a solo act. So she joined the Fabulous 50+ Players in 2008 as stage manager, working beSee FAB 50+, page 32

ARTS & STYLE

A robust, masterful Les Miserables at Toby’s Dinner Theatre page 29

FITNESS & HEALTH 4 k Blood sugar linked to dementia k How to eat to avoid wrinkles THE SENIOR CONNECTION 17 k Howard County Office on Aging newsletter LAW & MONEY 21 k Alternative investments to consider k Finding discounts and freebies PLUS CROSSWORD, BEACON BITS, CLASSIFIEDS & MORE

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Common (lack of) sense An item from the “be careful what you sions, and taking ownership of the home. wish for” department: I was having a probNone of this is illegal, and in fact, the lem coming up with a topic city relies on individual infor this month’s column. I vestors and businesses to colwas praying for some inspiralect and pay such back taxes. tion. But the story identified a Then I glanced at the day’s number of cases where newspaper, and oh, was I homes worth hundreds of sorry! While it provided a thousands of dollars were nearly instant topic, it also taken from their owners over made my blood boil, not a property tax bill as low as once, but three times. $50! Many of the victims of Here, in a nutshell, are the this scurrilous behavior have first three items I read in that FROM THE been older adults who either day’s paper. thought they had paid their PUBLISHER Story #1: A series of arti- By Stuart P. Rosenthal tax, didn’t understand the cles described how the D.C. consequences of not paying Office of Tax and Revenue imposes liens the tax, or were suffering from dementia on the homes of residents who have not or other disabilities. paid their property taxes, then auctions Eventually, a couple of the investors those liens off to the highest bidders. The who bought and foreclosed in these egrebidders, in turn, may impose additional gious cases were charged with a crime — fees and interest to the point where they not for taking homes away from people, may legally foreclose on the property, but for colluding at the auctions. Apparentevicting the residents and their posses- ly, they “took turns” allowing each other to

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The Beacon is a monthly newspaper dedicated to inform, serve, and entertain the citizens of Howard County, Md. and is privately owned. Other editions serve Greater Baltimore, Md., Greater Washington DC, and Greater Palm Springs, Calif. 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 • Associate Publisher..............Judith K. Rosenthal • Vice President, Operations........Gordon Hasenei • Director of Sales ................................Alan Spiegel • Assistant Operations Manager ..........Roger King • Managing Editor............................Barbara Ruben

be the highest bidder on every other property, and that broke the rules. Story #2: This one comes from Pine Bluff, Ark., and concerns a 107-year-old man whose granddaughter and a friend had come to help him move to a new home. Apparently, the gentleman mistook the ladies for burglars, brandished a pistol, and told them, “You better stop breaking into my house.” They called police for assistance, and when the man shot at officers through the door, they threw tear gas and a “distraction device” into the house, then stormed inside, guns drawn. When he fired at them, they shot back and killed the 107year-old. Story #3: This one took place in Maryland. A middle-aged daughter was the caregiver for her elderly parents. Her father had suffered three strokes and could no longer do many things for himself. The daughter claims he told her repeatedly that he wanted to die, and that he refused the food she brought him. When she finally called 911 to come take his body away, the found an emaciated corpse with more than a dozen open sores, five so deep “that bones were exposed.” Investigation revealed that in the months leading up to her father’s death, his doctors and nurses had reported him looking increasingly unkempt. When social workers came to the home to assist, the daughter turned them away. The judge, who found evidence in the record that the daughter was “an otherwise very fine person,” sentenced her to one year in prison for involuntary manslaughter. The situations are different, the motivations are different, the consequences are different, but to me, all three of these cases have some things in common. I’m going to call them the five (lack of) senses: Lack of common sense, lack of a sense of decency, lack of a sense of proportion, lack of a sense of fairness, lack of a sense of shame. Maybe we aren’t born with a moral compass, and no doubt many people grow up without either being taught morality or coming to their own sense of right and wrong through experience. And certainly there are criminals in every town and every society, as well as sociopaths who prey on innocents. But the situations above are not necessarily, or not wholly, examples of immoral or illegal behavior. It’s something else that leads otherwise decent people to make a living acquiring property at pennies on the dollar by “fol-

lowing the rules”; that sometimes leads law enforcement officers to shoot before they understand the situation; that leads children to think they are “honoring their parents’ wishes” when they withhold care or neglect them. Of course, each of these stories made it into the paper precisely because most of us find them outrageous. It is implied in their very reporting that such behaviors are antithetical to our social norms. That’s the good news part of the bad news. But don’t most of us desire to, or actually, act in some of these ways some of the time? Do we allow ourselves to benefit at others’ expense as long as the others are not visible to us? Do we overreact or jump to conclusions before fully assessing a situation? Do we persuade ourselves we are acting as others have asked, or would want, without truly putting ourselves in their shoes? There’s something very close to “human nature” reflected in these attitudes. Nearly all of us look out for “number one” first and foremost. But there’s also something redeeming about human nature, in that we can see — in others, at least — how dark and dangerous a person’s thoughts and actions can be. Perhaps it’s time we turned the spotlight more on ourselves.

Come to our Expo If you’ve attended one of our 50+Expos in the past, you know about the useful information, government and nonprofit resources, excellent speakers, exercise demonstrations, health screenings and great entertainment you’ll find there, and we hope you’ll return this year. We also invite newcomers to visit the Beacon’s 14th annual 50+Expo on Sunday, October 13 from noon to 4 p.m. The event will be in a new location for us: the Silver Spring Civic Center in downtown Silver Spring, Md. In addition to the change in venue, we will also be adding an outdoor Arts & Crafts Fair. I hope you’ll join us for a free and enjoyable afternoon. In particular, I think you’ll enjoy hearing Dr. Luigi Ferrucci, scientific director of the National Institute on Aging, speaking about the latest research in longevity and healthy aging. Come, and bring your friends! I look forward to seeing you there.

• Graphic Designer ..............................Kyle Gregory • Advertising Representatives ........Doug Hallock, ................................................ Steve Levin, Jill Joseph • Publishing Assistant ....................Rebekah Sewell

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 and advertising is the 1st of the month preceding the month of publication. See page 35 for classified advertising details. Please mail or email all submissions.

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

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Health Fitness &

WAITING FOR WEIGHT LOSS A look at why our bodies fight weight loss after a certain point HEPATITIS — WHO ME? Baby boomers are at greater risk for hepatitis C; only testing will tell FOODS THAT AGE YOUR SKIN Sugar, saturated fats and fried foods increase your wrinkles BLOOD SUGAR & DEMENTIA RISK The higher your blood sugar, the greater your risk of dementia

Live to 120? Most Americans say ‘no thanks’ By Lauran Neergaard Ninety birthdays maybe, but not 120. Americans hope to stretch out life expectancy another decade or so, but they are ambivalent, even skeptical, about a fountain of youth. A recent poll by the Pew Research Center explores attitudes about a scientific quest: Creating treatments that one day might slow the aging process and let people live decades longer than is normal today. Scientists already can extend the life span of certain laboratory animals — mice, worms, flies — with various techniques. They’ve also tried with monkeys, although the evidence in that species is mixed. There’s no way to know if there ever will be some type of Methuselah pill for humans. But with the field growing, Pew took the public’s pulse and found most Americans wouldn’t want a treatment that would let them live to 120. Fifty-six percent said no

thanks — although two-thirds expect most other people would want to try such a step, according to the report. Few expect such a radical idea to become reality, at least by 2050, although most of those surveyed expect other medical advances that could more gradually extend life expectancy, such as better cancer care. When asked about living to 120 or beyond, the survey found 51 percent of people said that would be bad for society. They worried about a strain on natural resources, and that such treatments probably would be available only to the rich rather than to everyone.

Not just longer, but better What is the ideal life span? To most Americans, it’s between 79 and 100; the median answer was 90 years, Pew reported. In the U.S., a child born today can expect to live 78.7 years. Women’s life expectancy

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is longer, 81 years, than men’s, 76.2. With a rapidly graying population that is bringing concern about the growth of Alzheimer’s disease and an overburdened Medicare system, caution about the idea of one day living even longer may not be surprising. But longevity pioneer Cynthia Kenyon of the University of California, San Francisco, wonders if the public understands the real goal of such research, which is better health. Many of the experimental animals whose lives have been extended look and act far younger — and are far healthier — than their untreated counterparts of the same age, she said. “It would be the equivalent of a 90-yearold person that you think is looking like a 45year-old,” Kenyon told the Associated Press. Because aging itself underlies the development of many chronic diseases as our bodies break down, the theory is that slowing the aging process might help keep people healthier for longer — even if it’s never as dramatic as what has happened with animals. “We are very interested in not only life extension, but extension of the health span,” said Dr. Marie A. Bernard, deputy director of the National Institute on Aging, which pays for much of this research.

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sume 25 to 30 percent less than normal — makes them live longer. Remarkably, they also were healthier than their litter mates. That led to the discovery of various genetic alterations that control life span. Kenyon’s research, for example, found that altering a single gene doubled the life span of roundworms, which stayed healthy until near the end. Other researchers have discovered similar aging-related gene mutations in different species. What about people? Some research has found healthy centenarians are more likely to harbor similarly protective genes. The next step is to find medications that might somehow switch on those protective pathways, rather than drastic dieting or gene manipulation. A number of candidates have worked in animals. In July, NIA researchers reported that a low dose of the diabetes drug metformin improved the health and longevity of middle-aged mice. No anti-aging pill is ready to try in people yet. Aging specialists say, for now, commonsense is the best medicine: Eat a healthy diet, maintain a healthy weight and exercise. The Pew Research Center’s Religion & Public Life Project survey was conducted from March 21 to April 8, 2013. The nationally representative survey involved interviews, conducted on cell phones and landlines, with 2,012 adults. It has a margin of error of plus or minus 2.9 percentage points. — AP

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It’s true: our bodies fight weight loss

New ideas about weight loss A new understanding of weight loss has developed, as scientists learn more about the body’s energy needs during weight loss. In fact, it turns out that the old adage — reducing your calories by 3,500 will result in one pound of weight loss — is inaccurate. According to a consensus panel convened by the American Society of Nutrition and the International Life Sciences Institute, the “3,500 calorie equals 1 pound” rule is wrong, because it assumes that body weight changes are uniform over

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long periods of time. However, the panel pointed out that as people lose weight, resting energy expenditure drops due to less body mass. So, that 3,500 calorie reduction will no longer result in a pound of weight loss. In fact, the National Institutes of Health created a mathematical modeling approach for weight loss over time that takes into account the body’s adaption to energy expenditure during weight loss, which was published in the Lancet in 2011. The NIH researchers reported that people with higher body fat lose larger amounts of weight than those with lower body fat, and that the body’s weight response to a change in energy intake is slow.

Everyone is different Another facet of the weight loss dilemma is that people have very individualized

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said, “It isn’t so much that metabolic needs decline as you lose weight, but your metabolic efficiency increases. Either way, it means the more weight you lose, the less energy you burn doing simple things like making your lungs breathe, heart beat, and kidneys work.”

By Sharon Palmer, R.D. If you’ve ever tried to lose weight, you probably know how frustrating it is to cut back on your calorie intake only to see no weight loss reflected on the bathroom scales. But there may be a good scientific explanation for this phenomenon. It does seem clear that as people lose weight, their resting energy expenditure — the amount of calories the body needs when it’s at rest — drops due to a lower body mass. It may seem like a cruel trick, but this response is actually an ingenious strategy that humans evolved over centuries in order to withstand times of famine, according to Christopher Gardner, Ph.D., associate professor at the Stanford Prevention Research Center. Gardner, who researches weight loss,

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energy needs. Everyone knows someone who can literally eat whatever they want and never gain a pound, as well as someone who is careful with every bite of food and still struggles with maintaining a healthy weight. Dr. David Katz, founding director of Yale University’s Prevention Research Center, reports that the energy needs for individuals is highly variable and not a matter of choice. Any two people doing the same physical activity will burn different numbers of calories due to a complex interplay of genes, body composition and physiology. And any two people eating the same foods in the same quantities may experience entirely different effects on weight, dependent on genes, resting energy expenditure, body composition, body mass and other factors, he said. That’s why Katz launched the National Exchange for Weight Loss Resistance (www.newlr.com) in order to provide a forum for information among those who are unusually resistant to weight loss.

Don’t get discouraged All of this information on weight loss may seem discouraging for the thousands of people trying to lose weight, but there’s also some good news. Gardner believes that, if you lose weight and keep it off for months or years by eating the same amount of calories, your body may eventually “agree” with this new weight and go back to being less “efficient.” Although this theory makes sense, it has yet to be proven, said Gardener. Is there one particular diet that can help counter the body’s metabolic response to weight loss? While one study linked a lower carbohydrate diet with benefits, researchers stress that there’s not enough evidence supporting one diet over another. “I doubt there will ever be one best diet. My hunch is there are multiple best diets, and certain people are more predisposed to be successful on one vs. another,” Gardener said.

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TIRED OF BEING TIRED? Dr. Charlene Gamaldo, director of the Sleep Center at Howard County General Hospital will discuss common sleep problems that come with age in a free lecture on Thursday, Oct. 17 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the HCGH Wellness Center, 10710 Charter Dr., Ste. 100, Columbia. For further information, call (410) 740-7601 or visit www.hcgh.org.

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We do know that thousands of people have successfully maintained a significant amount of weight loss. This has been proven in The National Weight Control Registry (www.nwcr.ws), the largest investigation of long-term weight loss maintenance in the U.S. Led by researchers from Brown Medical School and the University of Colorado, the NWCR tracks more than 10,000 individuals who have lost a significant amount of weight (at least 30 pounds) and kept it off for at least a year. Findings from the NWCR point out that long-term weight loss is achievable. It just takes time, diligence and hard work.

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Indeed, research shows that 20 percent of overweight people are successful, according to a 2005 study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. And the longer the weight loss is maintained, the fewer maintenance strategies are necessary, according to research published in the journal Obesity. While we have much more to learn about the complicated science of weight loss, the NWCR may hold some of our most promising answers and results. Reprinted with permission from Environmental Nutrition, a monthly publication of Belvoir Media Group, LLC. 1-800-8295384. www.EnvironmentalNutrition.com. © 2013 Belvoir Media Group. All rights reserved. Distributed by Tribune Media Services, Inc.

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O C T O B E R 2 0 1 3 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

FDA targets illegal diabetes remedies By Matthew Perrone The Food and Drug Administration is cracking down on more than a dozen companies that market illegal treatments for diabetes — ranging from bogus dietary supplements to prescription drugs sold online without a prescription. All of the products aim to cash in on the country’s diabetes epidemic, which affects nearly 26 million Americans. Regulators worry that consumers who buy such unapproved products could put off getting legit-

imate medical care, which could exacerbate heart disease, kidney failure and other deadly complications. The FDA sent warning letters to 15 companies, both in the U.S. and abroad, ordering them to stop selling diabetes treatments that violate U.S. drug laws.

False claims and ingredients Three of the products targeted are marketed as “natural” supplements, but actually contain unlisted pharmaceutical ingredients.

For example, Diexi, which is sold as a traditional Indian “herbal formula,” actually contains metformin, the most common prescription drug used to treat diabetes. The product is sold by Amrutam Life Care, of Surat, India. “Consumers should exercise caution before using products claiming to be herbal or all-natural alternatives to FDA-approved prescription drugs,” the agency said in a statement. “These products should be considered unsafe and should not be used.” Other products include genuine dietary supplements that make unproven claims to treat or prevent diabetes. For example, Diabetes Daily Care is a capsule-based supplement containing cinnamon extract and other herbs. Its manufacturer, Nature’s Health Supply Inc., claims it “safely and effectively improves sugar metabolism.” Under U.S. law, only FDA-approved medicines are permitted to make claims for treating or preventing disease.

Illegitimate pharmacies Other companies targeted by the FDA run online pharmacies that sell prescription drugs for diabetes without a prescription. The FDA issued a warning letter to www.bestcheapmedsonline.com for marketing unapproved versions of diabetes drugs like Januvia, from Merck & Co. Inc. The FDA warns patients against buying

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prescription medications on the Internet. Only 3 percent of online pharmacies actually comply with all U.S. pharmacy laws, according to a review by the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy. People with diabetes are unable to properly break down carbohydrates, either because their bodies do not produce enough insulin or because they’ve become resistant to the hormone, which controls blood sugar levels. These patients face higher risks of heart attacks, kidney problems, blindness and other serious complications. Many diabetics require multiple drugs to control their blood sugar levels. The U.S. market for prescription diabetes drugs is the largest in the world, with sales of $22 billion last year. Sales have ballooned more than 60 percent in the last four years from $13.6 billion in 2008, according to health data firm, IMS Health. The FDA said it has not received any reports of injury or illness connected with the products, but is taking action as a precautionary measure. The FDA sent the warning letters to the companies in July. The letters gives each company 15 business days to reply and explain how they will come into compliance with U.S. law. FDA warning letters are not legally binding, but the agency can take companies to court if they are ignored. — AP

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O C T O B E R 2 0 1 3 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

Boomers should be tested for hepatitis C By Dr. Stacey Rizza Dear Mayo Clinic: I recently heard that the CDC now recommends baby boomers be tested for hepatitis C. Is that true? If so, why is testing necessary? Wouldn’t I have symptoms if I had the disease? Answer: It is true that the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends anyone born between 1945 and 1965 get tested for hepatitis C infection. Americans born during that time are five times more likely than other people to be infected. Most people with hepatitis C don’t have symptoms, so testing for this serious infection is very important. Hepatitis C is an infection caused by a virus that attacks the liver. In about 60 to 80 percent of adults infected by hepatitis C, the virus lingers in the body. But in most cases, it’s impossible to know it’s

there without testing for it. Eventually, as people age, the hepatitis C virus can cause damage to the liver. Many of those with hepatitis C don’t know they have the infection until liver damage shows up, often decades after the initial infection.

How infection occurs The hepatitis C virus is spread from contact with contaminated blood. The reason for the higher hepatitis C infection rate in baby boomers is not entirely clear. It may be linked to the fact that before 1992, blood-screening tests for hepatitis were not as reliable as they are now. So it was possible to get the virus through a blood transfusion or organ transplant without knowing it. Some people may have become infected with hepatitis C by sharing contaminated needles when injecting drugs. This can happen even if a person comes in contact with an infected needle only once. In some mild cases of hepatitis C, treatment may not be necessary because the risk of future liver damage is very low. If so, follow-up blood tests and monitoring for liver problems may be all that’s needed.

Treatment options In many cases, though, hepatitis C infection is treated with antiviral medications that can clear the virus from the body. Usually, a combination of antiviral medicine is taken over several weeks to several months. Once the treatment is completed, blood tests are done to check for hepatitis C. If the virus is still present, a second round of treatment may be recommended. Frequently, no further treatment is necessary beyond that. If hepatitis C goes undetected and the infection is not treated over many years, it can cause serious liver problems. After several decades, hepatitis C infection can lead to scarring of the liver tissues, a condition known as cirrhosis. Cirrhosis makes it hard for the liver to work properly. In time, that can lead to liver failure and possibly the need for a liver transplant. In addition, some people with hepatitis C develop liver cancer. Blood tests that can detect the hepatitis C virus are available. If the virus is found, it may be necessary to take a small sample of liver tissue — a procedure called a liver biopsy. A biopsy can help doctors determine the severity of liver damage and guide treatment decisions. If you were born between 1945 and 1965, talk to your healthcare provider about being tested for hepatitis C. — Stacey Rizza, M.D. specializes in infectious diseases at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn. Medical Edge from Mayo Clinic is an educational resource and doesn’t replace regular medical care. To submit a question, write to: medicaledge@mayo.edu. For health information, visit www.mayoclinic.com. © 2013 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. All Rights Reserved Distributed by Tribune Media Services, Inc.

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Say you saw it in the Beacon | Fitness & Health

Avoid these foods that can age your skin By Gretel H. Schueller Wrinkles are a natural part of aging, but that doesn’t mean you can’t do anything to prevent them. While plenty of us spend lots of money on creams and cleansers, the best place to find anti-aging products is in your grocery store or garden. What we eat is as important — if not more so — as what we slather on our skin. Nourishing our skin from the inside out can help beat the clock. And just as some foods can help slow the effects of time, other foods can speed up our skin’s aging process, contributing to wrinkles and sagging. Your skin is important; it’s actually your body’s biggest organ. What keeps skin looking healthy? Oil and collagen. Our skin is coated in a layer of natural oils that protect it and lock in moisture. As we age, the oil production slows down, and skin cells lose the ability to repair themselves as easily. Our skin’s reserve of collagen — a type of protein that keeps skin firm, elastic and youthfully plump — also begins to run low, making skin thinner. And thin skin wrinkles more easily than thicker skin. Environmental factors, such as smog, cigarette smoking and sun exposure, can make your skin look older, drier and dull. What you eat matters, too. Avoid the following skin-aging foods to help minimize wrinkles and keep your skin healthy. 1. Sugars and sweets The average American eats a whopping 22 teaspoons of sugar a day. According to dermatologist Dr. Jessica Wu, author of Feed Your Face, “a diet high in sugar” activates enzymes that “devour healthy collagen,” leaving behind damaged fragments of collagen. When skin’s healthy collagen-making cells run into these fragments, they get con-

fused, shut down and stop making collagen. As a result, the collagen-depleting effect, a process called glycation, is exponential. If collagen is a rubber band that keeps your skin looking firm, then glycation is tying it into knots and rendering it useless. The end products of glycation (“advanced glycation end products,” typically and appropriately shortened to AGEs), damage skin and other tissues. Among healthy people, the effects of glycation on skin start to show at about age 35 and increase after that, according to a 2001 study in the British Journal of Dermatology. 2. Saturated fats It’s not new news that a diet high in saturated fat is bad for your heart, but saturated fat may also be a major contributor to aging skin. A 2007 American Journal of Clinical Nutrition study that looked at more than 4,000 middle-aged women concluded that dietary differences did appear to influence the degree of wrinkling. A 17-gram increase in daily fat intake increased the likelihood of a wrinkled appearance. And a study in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition found that people who ate more butter experienced more wrinkling. The reason for the sad fat-wrinkle connection is those pesky AGEs (again!). It turns out that fats can also react with collagen to produce AGEs. 3. Fried, grilled and broiled foods When certain foods are cooked in certain ways, guess what forms? Fat plus protein plus high, dry heat ages us! Broiling, grilling and high-heat frying can all create AGEs. Those sear marks on a deliciously grilled steak, the finger-licking crispy bits on fried chicken, the crunch of browned bacon and basically any charred bits are

all evidence of AGEs. Researchers are noticing higher levels of AGEs in people, in part because of the spread of processed foods. Yes, AGEs are

also present in many processed foods, such as crackers, chips and cookies, that have See FOODS THAT AGE, page 12

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O C T O B E R 2 0 1 3 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

High blood sugar increases dementia risk By Marilynn Marchione Higher blood-sugar levels, even those well short of diabetes, seem to raise the risk of developing dementia, a major new study finds. Researchers say it suggests a novel way to try to prevent Alzheimer’s disease — by keeping glucose at a healthy level. Alzheimer’s is by far the most common form of dementia, and it’s long been known that diabetes makes it more likely. The new study tracked blood sugar over time in all sorts of people — with and without diabetes — to see how it affects risk for the mind-robbing disease. “It’s a nice, clean pattern” — risk rises as blood sugar does, said Dallas Anderson, a scientist at the National Institute on Aging, the federal agency that paid for the study.

“This is part of a larger picture,” he said, and adds evidence that exercising and controlling blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol are viable ways to delay or prevent dementia. Because so many attempts to develop effective drugs have failed, “It looks like, at the moment, sort of our best bet,” Anderson said. “We have to do something. If we just do nothing and wait around till there’s some kind of cocktail of pills, we could be waiting a long time.” About 35 million people worldwide have dementia; in the United States, about 5 million have Alzheimer’s disease. What causes it isn’t known. Current treatments just temporarily ease symptoms.

People who have diabetes don’t make enough insulin, or their bodies don’t use insulin well, to turn food into energy. That causes sugar in the blood to rise, which can damage the kidneys and other organs — possibly the brain, researchers say.

ing at various times of day or before or after a meal. Participants were given standard tests for thinking skills every two years and asked about smoking, exercise and other things that affect dementia risk.

Further study needed

Dementia risk raised by 18%

The new study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, just tracked people. It did not test whether lowering someone’s blood sugar would help treat or prevent dementia. That would have to be tested in a new study. In the meantime, people should not seek blood-sugar tests they wouldn’t normally get otherwise, said the study’s leader, Dr. Paul Crane of the University of Washington in Seattle. “We don’t know from a study like this whether bringing down the glucose level will prevent or somehow modify dementia,” but it’s always a good idea to avoid developing diabetes, he said. Eating well, exercising and controlling weight all help to keep blood sugar in line. The study involved 2,067 people 65 and older in the Group Health Cooperative, a Seattle-area healthcare system. At the start, 232 participants had diabetes; the rest did not. They each had at least five blood-sugar tests within a few years of starting the study, and more after it was underway. Researchers averaged these levels over time to even out spikes and dips from test-

After nearly seven years of follow-up, 524, or one quarter of them, had developed dementia — mostly Alzheimer’s disease. Among participants who started out without diabetes, those with higher glucose levels over the previous five years had an 18 percent greater risk of developing dementia than those with lower glucose levels. Among participants with diabetes at the outset, those with higher blood sugar were 40 percent more likely to develop dementia than diabetics at the lower end of the glucose spectrum. The effect of blood sugar on dementia risk was seen even when researchers took into account whether participants had the apoE4 gene, which raises the risk for Alzheimer’s. At least for diabetics, the results suggest that good blood-sugar control is important for cognition, Crane said. For those without diabetes, “it may be that with the brain, every additional bit of blood sugar that you have is associated with higher risk,” he said. “It changes how we think about thresholds, how we think about what is normal, what is abnormal.” — AP

Foods that age

however. Cooking methods that involve lots of water — such as steaming, stewing, poaching, braising and blanching — reduce the AGE-creation process because the liquid offsets the heat. © 2013 EatingWell, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Media Services, Inc.

From page 11 been exposed to high temperatures to lengthen their shelf life. That high heat reacts with the sugars and fats to form AGEs. There’s no need to switch to a raw diet,

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Say you saw it in the Beacon | Fitness & Health

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Additional Medicare plans are also accepted. See pharmacy for details. Plan is insured or covered by UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company or one of its affiliates, a Medicare-approved Part D sponsor. UnitedHealthcare pays a royalty fee to AARP. These fees are used for the general purposes of AARP. ©2013 Target Stores. Target and the Bullseye Design are registered trademarks of Target Brands, Inc. All rights reserved. 483404 Y0066_PDPSPRJ14842 _000 IR

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Health Studies Page

O C T O B E R 2 0 1 3 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

THE PLACE TO LOOK FOR INFORMATION ON AREA CLINICAL TRIALS

Volunteers with kidney disease are sought By Carol Sorgen Our kidneys remove waste products from our blood, regulate water fluid levels, and produce important hormones and enzymes. Twenty-six million American adults have chronic kidney disease (CKD), and millions of others are at increased risk, according to the National Kidney Foundation. CKD includes conditions that damage our kidneys and decrease their ability to function. It may be caused by diabetes, high blood pressure and other disorders. If kidney disease worsens, resulting in increased levels of wastes in your body, you may develop complications such as high blood pressure, anemia, weak bones, poor nutritional health and nerve damage. Kidney disease also increases your risk of

heart and blood vessel disease. Early detection and treatment can often keep chronic kidney disease from getting worse. When kidney disease progresses, however, it may eventually lead to kidney failure, which requires dialysis or a kidney transplant to maintain life. Though CKD is common, it is often overlooked by medical professionals when patients who have it are receiving medical treatment for other conditions. Patients with CKD have special needs when it comes to medical treatment, and when these needs are not taken into account during medical care, unintended harm can result, which can lead to frequent hospitalization, accelerated loss of kidney function, increased risk of endstage renal disease, and even death.

Have You Fallen? Seeking Men and Women to participate in a research study at the University of Maryland & Veterans aﬀairs of Baltimore to better understand balance and the prevention of falls in aging individuals.

you will receive: • Health evaluation • Balance, step, strength, and/or flexibility exercises • Compensation for your time If interested call: 410-605-7179 & Mention code: LIFT Baltimore VA/University of Maryland Gerontology Recruitment Line *You must be at least 65 years old and in good health *Participants will be seen at the Baltimore VA Medical Center and University of Maryland School of Medicine *You will attend approximately 41 visits for 1 to 4 hours of time per visit

CaLL Today!

Identifying kidney patients

Who may volunteer

The University of Maryland is conducting an observational study to determine whether increased recognition of the disease can decrease the number of adverse events in patients with CKD. The research study has two purposes: The first is to determine how participants feel about wearing a medical alert bracelet or necklace that identifies them as having decreased kidney function so that healthcare workers can more easily identify them. Medical alert jewelr y is often recommended for people who have other medical problems, such as diabetes. For CKD patients in the study, the medical alert accessory has an address to an informational website about the safe care of patients with kidney problems. Study investigators think that informing healthcare workers that a person has decreased kidney function may improve the patient’s care and reduce risk of injury. The second purpose of the study is to track how often people with kidney problems may be exposed to medicines, tests or procedures that might increase their chance of having an accidental medical injury or safety event. Though some medical injuries cannot be prevented, the study investigators want to find out what medical events in patients with kidney problems might be preventable, as well as what conditions — such as physical weakness or unclear medical instructions — might increase a patient’s chances of getting a medical injury.

The study is seeking participants age 21 and older with CKD who are not undergoing dialysis. They will be assessed annually to observe the frequency of adverse events over time. The first 100 participants (Phase I) will be provided with a standard medical alert necklace or bracelet that states, “decreased kidney function. For my care, please visit www.safekidneycare.org.” Participants are also asked to log onto the website using a unique four-digit ID to track their use of the site. The website does not collect or store patient health information. It tracks only the IP address of the device used to access the site (which generally tracks the city, state, Zip and area codes where the computer is located). The volunteers in Phase I will be tracked over time as to how they use and tolerate their medical alert bracelet or necklace, and for their incidence of CKDrelated patient-safety incidents. In Phase II, 250 participants will be tracked on an identical study schedule for detection of CKD-related events, but without the use of the medical alert accessory. Clinic visits may include a combination of blood and urine samples and nose, throat and skin swabs. Clinics are located at the Baltimore VA Medical Center and the University of Maryland Medical Center. The study concludes in 2015. For more information, or to volunteer, call (410) 605-7000, ext. 5280 or email jfink@medicine.umaryland.edu.

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Wednesday, October 9, 2013 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday, October 10, 2013 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Timonium Fairgrounds

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E X P O

Baltimore County Department of Aging

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — O C T O B E R 2 0 1 3

Say you saw it in the Beacon

VOLUME 3, NO. 10 • OCTOBER 2013

A Message from the Administrator By Dayna Brown, Office on Aging Administrator

Fall is here, which means the 50+EXPO cannot be far behind. This year’s event, on Friday, Oct. 18, marks the 15th anniversary of the EXPO, and we’ve planned a day packed with information and entertainment, events and adventure. Why adventure you ask? Well, aging in itself is a bit of an adventure — you really don’t know what to expect, but you try to plan as best as you can, as far ahead as you can, knowing that the road ahead may have some unexpected twists and turns. As you wind your way through the multitude of exhibitors and vendors at the 50+EXPO, you’ll find resources to help you meet today’s needs and prepare for tomorrow’s challenges. Be sure to visit the Office on Aging’s booth just inside the entrance, and pick up a copy of our newly revised Resource Guide. To help you plan your visit to the 50+EXPO, visit www.howardcountyaging.org/50plusexpo to view the full schedule of events and activities. Though the EXPO is by far the largest Office on Aging event this month, it’s not the only one. Oct. 15th marks the start of Medicare’s open enrollment period, which runs through Dec. 7th this year. Our State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) has planned a series of information events (see the article and schedule in this issue) to help current Medicare recipients review their coverage plan to be sure they have the one that best fits their needs. Call SHIP at 410-313-7392 to schedule your appointment. In November, which is National Family Caregiver Month, mark your calendars to attend “You Are Not Alone,” the second annual Caregiver Workshop on Saturday, Nov. 9th from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the North Laurel Community Center. Join us to share and learn from Office on Aging staff, service providers and, perhaps most importantly, other caregivers. Respite care and lunch are included — I hope you will attend! And remember, if you ever have questions about caregiving, or need information or a referral, call Maryland Access Point for assistance at 410-313-5980.

50+EXPO Celebrates 15 Years of Healthy Aging Over the past decade and a half, the Howard County 50+EXPO has become a popular destination for adults of all ages in search of information and entertainment. Celebrate 15 years of healthy aging at 50+EXPO 2013 on Friday, Oct. 18 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Wilde Lake High School, 5460 Trumpeter Rd. in Columbia. Discover the products and services of almost 160 vendors and exhibitors offering resources that support all stages of healthy aging. Whether for yourself or your loved ones, whether you need to address current topics of concern, or are seeking resources to plan for the future, the EXPO brings exhibits, services, Majid Fotuhi, seminars, health screenings and great entertainment all M.D., Ph.D together under one roof, and admission is free! New this year, the 15th annual 50+EXPO will feature a keynote presentation at 10 a.m. in the James Rouse Theatre: Boost Your Brain: How to Protect Your Memory for Life by Majid Fotuhi, M.D., Ph.D., and chief medical officer and principal of the new NeurExpand Brain Center in Columbia. Following the free presentation, Dr. Fotuhi will answer questions, and NeurExpand will offer memory screenings adjacent to its exhibit booth on Main Street. The first 10 people that sign up for memory screenings will receive an autographed copy of Dr. Fotuhi’s newly-released book, “Boost Your Brain: The New Art + Science Behind Enhanced Brain Performance.” Be sure to check out one or more life-enriching workshops featured throughout the day. Don’t miss ID Theft - How to Protect Your Loved Ones and Yourself presented by the Howard County Department of Citizen Services Office of Consumer Affairs; Supercharge Your Immunity, presented by Rachel Brumberger, M.Ac., L.Ac. of WisdomWell; ABC’s of Herbs & Spices, presented by Jade Connelly-Duggan, M.Ac., of WisdomWell; and Protecting Yourself on the Internet, presented by Malcolm Wolf, of Computer Seniors of America. Stop by the Living Green Fair in Exhibit Hall B to find out how you can add ecologically friendly options to your life. Take advantage of the wide array of free health screenings at the 50+EXPO health fair, and get screened for diabetes, too. Once again this year, flu vaccinations (injection or mist) will be offered at no charge to adults aged 50 and older, and to adults under age 50 with underlying chronic medical conditions. Pneumonia injections are available as well; the charge is waived if you bring your Medicare Part B card. Live music and all day entertainment are a highlight of the Café 50+, where a variety of delicious lunch options is available for purchase. Not to be missed, the ever popular Capitol Steps returns to the James Rouse Theatre, with two shows at noon See 50+EXPO, page 19

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The Senior Connection

E O E I R S F IS M D A

! N

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 18 • 9 am - 4 pm Wilde Lake High School, 5460 Trumpeter Road, Columbia, MD

Celebrating 15 years of Healthy Aging! Over 150 Exhibitors • Healthy Aging Seminars Life-Enriching Workshops • Ideas & Demonstrations for Living Green All Day Entertainment • Food & Refreshments Diabetes Screenings • Health Fair & Flu Shots* *Persons with Medicare Part B should bring their Medicare card

In The Rouse Theatre Don’t Miss Our Keynote Speaker at 10 am!

Boost Your Brain: How to Protect Your Memory for Life Presented by

Majid Fotuhi, M.D., Ph.D. Chief Medical Officer and Principal

NeurExpand Brain Center

Seminars ID Theft - How to Protect Your Loved Ones and Yourself Presented by

Howard County Department of Citizen Services Office of Consumer Affairs

Supercharge Your Immunity Presented by

Rachel Brumberger, M.Ac., L.Ac. WisdomWell

ABC’s of Herbs & Spices Presented by

Jade Connelly-Duggan, M.Ac. WisdomWell

Protecting Yourself on the Internet Presented by

The Capitol Steps for 2 Shows! 12:00 noon and 2:00 pm

Malcolm Wolf Computer Seniors of America

Find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/HoCo50PlusEXPO

410-313-6410 www.howardcountyaging.org

50+EXPO Parking is at the Mall in Columbia by Sears with FREE Shuttle Service to the EXPO Front Door!

GOLD SPONSORS ADVANCED HEARING GROUP • EVERGREENS AT COLUMBIA TOWN CENTER • HOWARD COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT LORIEN HEALTH SYSTEMS • ORTHOPAEDIC ASSOCIATES OF CENTRAL MARYLAND MEDIA SPONSORS BALTIMORE SUN MEDIA GROUP • CMRT • GUIDE TO RETIREMENT LIVING SOURCEBOOK • HER MIND MAGAZINE • THE BEACON • THE BUSINESS MONTHLY If you need this publication in an alternate format, call 410-313-5980. To request a sign language interpreter or other accommodations to attend this event, call 410-313-5980 by October 11. To request transportation, call HT Ride at 800-270-9553 by October 10.

Review Your Plan During Medicare Open Enrollment

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Say you saw it in the Beacon

The Senior Connection

By Bill Salganik, Counselor, State Health Insurance Assistance Program Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s that time of year again â&#x20AC;&#x201D; time for Medicare beneficiaries to review their current prescription coverage, choose a different prescription or Medicare Advantage health plan (such as an HMO) or join a plan if they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have one. Open enrollment runs from Oct. 15 to Dec. 7; all changes take effect Jan. 1, 2014. Even if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re happy with your 2013 plan, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth re-shopping, because your needs change over

time. And every year, insurance companies can, and do, change their premiums, deductibles, copays, lists of covered drugs, and lists of pharmacies where you can get the best prices. If you stay in the same plan without checking to see whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s changing, you could be in for a nasty surprise in January, faced with a hefty premium hike, or find out that the medicine you need is no longer covered. Some insurers may leave the market, while other new ones

may offer plans that might be right for you. To stay on top of these changes, Howard County residents can turn to the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) for assistance. Taking the time to review, re-shop and possibly switch your plan with the help of a knowledgeable SHIP volunteer could save you hundreds of dollars! Even if you end up staying in the same plan, you will do so knowing that it will con-

tinue to be a good choice for you. To make an appointment for a one-on-one review, call SHIP at 410-313-7392. A SHIP counselor will arrange to meet with you at the Bain Center, Ellicott City Senior Center, Glenwood and North Laurel 50+ Centers. During the open enrollment period some evening and weekend times are added, so check the schedule below, and call to set up an appointment at a time thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s convenient for you.

Medicare Part D Review & Enrollment Events

To schedule an appointment with a SHIP Counselor, call 410-313-7392. Bring your Medicare card and a list of your prescription drugs. Thursday, Oct. 17

1 to 4 p.m.

North Laurel 50+ Center

Tuesday, Nov. 12

9 a.m. to Noon

Glenwood 50+ Center

Monday, Oct. 21

9 a.m. to Noon

Elkridge Senior Center

Saturday, Nov. 16

9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The Bain Center

Tuesday, Oct. 22

9 a.m. to Noon

Glenwood 50+ Center

Wednesday, Nov. 20 5 to 8 p.m.

The Bain Center

Wednesday, Oct. 23 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Ellicott City Senior Center

Thursday, Nov. 21

1 to 4 p.m.

North Laurel 50+ Center

Saturday, Nov. 2

9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The Bain Center

Friday, Nov. 22

9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Ellicott City Senior Center

Wednesday, Nov. 6

5 to 8 p.m.

The Bain Center

Wednesday, Dec. 4

5 to 8 p.m.

The Bain Center

Thursday, Nov. 7

1 to 4 p.m.

North Laurel 50+ Center

Thursday, Dec. 5

1 to 4 p.m.

North Laurel 50+ Center

Friday, Nov. 8

9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Ellicott City Senior Center

Friday, Dec. 6

9 a.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 3 p.m.

Ellicott City Senior Center

A PRESENTATION OF THE

HOWARD COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF CITIZEN SERVICES

OFFICE ON AGING

KEYNOTE ADDRESS: Marsha Ansel, Psychogeriatric Coordinator Howard County Mental Health Authority

50+EXPO From page 17

and 2 p.m. Tickets for both shows will be distributed at the EXPO ticket booth beginning at 9 a.m., while quantities last. There is no charge, but attendees are encouraged to make a donation to the Office on Agingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s emergency assistance fund for older adults in Howard County. To make getting to the 50+EXPO as stress-free as possible, free door-to-door courtesy shuttle buses will run continuously between Wilde Lake High School and the Mall throughout the day, from Searsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; lower parking lot. Transportation is also available by advance request by calling HT Ride at 410-313-1921 by Friday, Oct. 11. For a complete schedule of 50+EXPO events, or for more information, visit www.howardcountyaging.org/50plusexpo, like us on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/HoCo50PlusEXPO or call 410-313-6410.

Saturday, November 9, 2013 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM North Laurel Community Center 9411 Whiskey Bottom Road Laurel, MD 20723 Continental breakfast & lunch provided. On-site respite provided. To register, or for additional information, contact Maryland Access Point (MAP) at 410-313-5980 or email map@howardcountymd.gov Reservation deadline for lunch and respite is Friday, November 1 If you need this document in an alternative format or need accommodations to attend this event, please call 410-313-5980.

www.howardcountyaging.org

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The Senior Connection is published monthly by the Howard County Department of Citizen Servicesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Office on Aging. We welcome your comments and suggestions. To contact us, or to join our email subscriber list, email seniorconnection@howardcountymd.gov with â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;subscribeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; in the subject box.

Howard County Office on Aging

6751 Columbia Gateway Drive, Columbia, MD 21046

410-313-6410

www.howardcountyaging.org â&#x20AC;˘ www.Facebook.com/HoCoCitizen

Dayna Brown, Administrator

Advertising contained in the Beacon is not endorsed by the Howard County Office on Aging or by the publisher.

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Coming Events

O C T O B E R 2 0 1 3 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

The Senior Connection

Tuesday, Oct. 1, 9:30 to 11 a.m. – World Vegetarian Day, Bain Center Go meat-free this October. Sample a display of tasty vegetarian food and leave with great recipes. Please sign up in the lobby.

Tuesday, Oct. 1, 1 to 3 p.m. – Bunco!, East Columbia 50+ Center Join our team of rollers, who never tire of a great game. No experience necessary, but a sense of humor is required. Free; call 410-313-7680 for information.

Fridays, October 4—November 8, 10 a.m. to noon – SPRING Initial Facilitator Training The SPRING peer outreach program will hold facilitator training for volunteers who like working with groups, possess good listening skills, are flexible and reliable. Fee is $25; scholarships are available. Contact Karen Hull, 410-313-7466 to register. Monday, October 7, 10 to 11 a.m. – Meet the Author of The Art of Living Foods, Bain Center Author Anura Desai demonstrates easy to make recipes with fruits, vegetables, herbs, whole grains, and nuts. Free; call 410-313-7213 to sign–up in advance.

Monday, October 7, 3 p.m. (advanced), 4 p.m. (beginner) – Line Dance with Mary McCormick, East Columbia 50+ Center Line dance combines brain and physical fitness in a dance routine, taught in a relaxed and fun setting by Mary McCormick. Monthly fee; first class is free. Call 410-313-7680 to register. Tuesday, October 8, 6 to 7:30 p.m. – SPRING Wellness Seminar: Success in Aging, Ellicott City Senior Center Mary Carter, Ph.D., program director of Gerontology at Towson University, will discuss defining success as we age. Free; call 410-313-1400 to register by Tuesday, October 4th or Karen Hull, 410-313-7466 for more information.

Tuesday, October 8 and 15, 2 to 3:30 p.m. – Medicare 101 & Medicare 102, North Laurel 50+ Center Medicare 101 covers how Medicare Parts A, B, and D work, what the benefits are, and coverage decisions. In Medicare 102, learn about Medicare

Part C Health Plans and Supplement Policies. Free; sponsored by SHIP. Call 410-313-7391 to register.

2nd Wednesdays, starting October 9, 10 to 11 a.m. – Travel Chatter Club, Bain Center Share your travel experiences and photos, and learn the do’s and don’ts of planning a trip. Call 410-313-7213 to register in advance. Thursday, October 10, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. – Blood Drive, Bain Center It only takes a few minutes to donate blood and give the gift that keeps on giving. Schedule your appointment at the front desk. Thursday, Oct. 10, 12:30 p.m. – Retro Rockets, Ellicott City Senior Center Join us for a rockin’ performance to liven up your day. Free; call 410-313-1400 for more information.

Friday, Oct. 11, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. – AARP - 55 Alive Driver Safety Course, Elkridge Senior Center Learn how to become a safer driver from the AARP. Cost: $12; lunch is available for a donation. Call 410-313-5192 for more information or to register. Friday, Oct. 11, 10 a.m. to noon – Medically Curious, Glenwood 50+ Center Dr. Larry Romaine is back with an overview of what you need to know when it comes to falls and trauma. Free. Register in binder at the front desk, or call 410-313-5440 for information.

Tuesday, October 14, 10 a.m. – Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), East Columbia 50+ Center Try tapping to clear your energy meridians. It’s based on acupuncture, but without needles. Cost: $12; call 410-313-7680 to register. Tuesdays, starting October 15, 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. – Living Well with Diabetes, Elkridge Senior Center Join us for a six-week program that will teach you how to manage the symptoms of diabetes and take control of your own health. Cost: $25; includes all materials. Call 410-313-5980 to register. Lunch is available for a donation.

The Howard County Paws4Comfort program fosters special bonds between pets, their owners and the County residents they visit.

If you are interested in volunteering, or wish to schedule a free evaluation for your pet, contact Ingrid Gleysteen, at 410-313-7461 or igleysteen@howardcountymd.gov. Evaluations are held the 1st Wednesday of every month.

Wednesday, Oct. 2nd 7 PM at Bain Center The Bain Center, 5470 Ruth Keeton Way Columbia, MD 21044

410.313.7461 www.howardcountyaging.org

Tuesday, October 15, 1 to 4 p.m. – Clarity Audiology, Ellicott City Senior Center Dr. Mary Carson will perform free hearing screenings. Call 410-3131400 for your 15 minute appointment, or sign up at the front desk. Wednesday, October 16, 10 a.m. – Civil War Series: The Civil War at Sea, Glenwood 50+ Center Craig Symonds, retired professor of history at the U. S. Naval Academy and a distinguished Civil War historian, will present The Civil War at Sea. Register at the front desk.

Wednesday, October 16, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. – Nutrition Counseling, Ellicott City Senior Center Schedule your 30 minute counseling session with Nutritionist Rona Martiyan at the front desk or call 410-313-1400.

Thursday, Oct. 17, 10 a.m. – War of 1812 Thursday, Glenwood 50+ Center Vince Vaise, National Park Service Ranger from Fort McHenry in Baltimore will discuss the War of 1812. Sign up in binder at front desk. Thursdays, starting October 17, 10:30 a.m. to noon – Bereavement Group, Bain Center For anyone mourning the loss of a loved one, the group explores the process of mourning, coping strategies, and living beyond grief. Pre-registration required. Cost is $15 for the entire series. Contact Karen Hull, 410-313-7466, to register.

Friday, October 18, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. – 15th Annual 50+EXPO, Wilde Lake High School, 5460 Trumpeter Lane, Columbia, Md. Friday, October 18, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. – 15th Annual 50+EXPO, Wilde Lake High School, 5460 Trumpeter Lane, Columbia, Md. Celebrate 15 years of healthy aging at the 50+EXPO, with more than 150 exhibitors, a health fair, seminars, flu shots, living green ideas, entertainment and food. For details, call 410-313- 6410.

Tuesday, Oct. 22, all day – Fall Prevention Screening, Ellicott City Senior Center The Occupational Therapy Assistant Program from CCBC will conduct a Fall Prevention Screening Program here at our center. Free; call 410-313-1400 to schedule your appointment.

Friday, October 25, 10 a.m. to noon – Cookbook & Bake Sale, North Laurel 50+ Center Just in time for holiday entertaining, browse and shop our inventory of great cookbooks available at bargain prices and finish your with a sweet treat. For more information, call 410-313-0380.

Friday, October 25, 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. – Cozy Inn Restaurant and Gettysburg Outlets, Elkridge Senior Center Shop the outlets and enjoy an all you can eat buffet. Cost: $25 per person includes buffet and transportation. Call 410-313-5192 to register. Wednesday, October 30, 11 a.m. – Show of Musical Legends, North Laurel 50+ Center Enjoy the Jazzy Comedy Show of Musical Legends and enjoy lunch at our Pasta Bar; dress as your favorite musical legend (prize for best costume). Cost: $5 plus a lunch contribution. To purchase tickets, call 410-313-0380. Saturday, Nov. 9, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. – “You Are Not Alone” Caregiver Workshop, North Laurel Community Center Join us to learn more about Howard County resources for caregivers; legal issues; managing stress and challenging behaviors; long-term care planning; and more. Free onsite respite care provided; continental breakfast and lunch included. Call 410-313-5980 by November 1 to reserve lunch or arrange for respite.

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — O C T O B E R 2 0 1 3

Say you saw it in the Beacon

Money

DISCOUNTS AND FREEBIES Dozens of retailers and restaurants — including Kohl’s, Banana Republic and Dunkin’ Donuts — offer discounts to older customers. You just have to ask

Law &

FEES CONSUME EARNINGS Even half a percent more in fees can cost your retirement account hundreds of thousands of dollars over time. What to do about it

Alternative investments for regular Joes The stock, bond and commodities mar- for-the-shakes, and you should read it. kets saw steep price declines after ChairHe discusses the danger of investors man Ben Bernanke indicated holding longer-term bonds in that the Federal Reserve the current environment bewould likely slow down its cause it is likely that interest purchase of government rates will increase. [See also bonds a few weeks back. Un“Protecting bonds when interest fortunately, the volatility is unrates rise,” September Beacon, likely to stop. page 21.] Investors have a right to be He discusses duration risk, concerned. Traditional safe also termed interest rate risk, investments — such as Treaswhich I have talked about in ury bills, money-market inprior columns. His main point THE SAVINGS struments, and short-term GAME is that small increases in rates certificates of deposit — still By Elliot Raphaelson generate disproportionately earn less than 1 percent, large reduction in value for while inflation is approximatebonds. ly 1.4 percent. Rice gives the example of an investor What alternatives are available for in- holding 10-year Treasury bonds. He points vestors who want reasonable income but out that in recent trading, these bonds without a great deal of risk? dropped 1/10 percent in value for each Bob Rice, Bloomberg’s alternative in- 1/100 percent increase in interest rates. vestment editor and founder of Tangent He believes that investors should lower Capital, wrote an excellent ar ticle in their exposure to traditional bonds. He June titled “Liquidity Detox: Prepare for points out that if rates increase 4 or 5 perthe Shakes.” It is available online at cent for intermediate Treasury instruwww.forbes.com/sites ments, investors stand to lose one-third of /rice/2013/06/18/liquidity-detox-prepare- their value.

Replacements for bonds In the article, Rice cites some alternative investments that have generated superior returns for the best money managers. He goes into a lot more detail in his excellent book, The Alternative Answer: The Nontraditional Investments that Drive the World’s Best-Performing Portfolios (Harper-

Business, 2013). Rice believes that the following alternative investments will provide higher income with lower risk than traditional investments: master limited partnerships (MLPs), royalties, catastrophe bonds, See INVESTMENTS, page 23

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O C T O B E R 2 0 1 3 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

How to ferret out discounts and freebies By Anne D’Innocenzio There’s a big silver lining to getting older: a bevy of discounts for you to enjoy — from free samples to discounts on car rentals. And for many of these incentives, you don’t have to be anywhere near 65. In fact, some can be enjoyed starting at 50. Of course, to get the freebies or the 20 percent off you’ll have to admit your age — and then, most likely, flash your ID — but it can be well worth it. “Every penny counts,” said Jodi Fur-

man, author of a blog called Livefabuless (www.livefabuless.com), who said she’s seeing more discounts that start at age 50 than just a few years ago. “All you have to do is mention your age.”

Tips for savings Don’t be shy: Many stores or restaurants don’t broadcast their discounts. Even on their websites, the offers can be hard to find. So just ask the manager what’s available. What’s the worst that can happen?

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And you may even get your ego stroked when the person at the cash register thinks you’re much younger than you are. “Today people are more comfortable with their age and with asking for discounts,” said Alison Jatlow Levy, a retail strategist at consulting firm Kurt Salmon. She also encourages shoppers to think broadly and look at every area, from spas to electronics. Join AARP and other groups: Once you’re 50, you can sign up to be a member of AARP, which provides benefits like discounts and freebies to its members through affiliate partners. It costs $16 to be a member for one year, but less than that per year if you purchase a membership for several years at once. There are other organizations, like the American Seniors Organization (www.americanseniors.org), that offer benefits, too. Research online: Discounts keep changing, so you need to keep surfing the Web to make sure they’re current. The AARP website (www.AARP.org) has a tab dedicated to discounts. It includes a grocery

coupon center powered by Coupons.com, and has links to such retailers as arts-andcrafts chain Michael’s, which offers a 20 percent savings every Tuesday for AARP members. The site also has a section on free samples of top brands in food and beauty. Levy encourages consumers to check out different websites that focus on discounts for the 50 and over set. Among the largest: www.seniordiscounts.com, which features more than 250,000 local listings. Other sites include www.free4seniors.com, www.allse niordeals.com and www.sciddy.com, which lets you search discounts by your area code. Furman also advised trying a free app called www.Larky.com, which currently works on Apple and Android products. The app offers automatic reminders of your membership perks and discounts when you need them. Be prepared: Make sure to bring your ID and your AARP card when you go out. Business establishments will likely want to See DISCOUNTS, page 23

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COLUMBIA LAUNCHES CITIZENS ACADEMY

Oct. 2

A free five-week program to inform residents about the workings of the Columbia Association, a nonprofit service corporation that manages Columbia, will begin on Wednesday, Oct. 2 at 6 p.m. and continue on Wednesdays through October at the Columbia Association Headquarters, 10221 Wincopin Circle, Columbia. The citizens academy, “Excite Columbia,” is open to persons 18 or older, and registration is required. Classes are limited to 25 participants. For more information, call Erin McPhail at (410) 423-1891. To register online, visit ExciteColumbia2013.Eventbrite.com.

Sept. 26

BEST-SELLING AUTHOR SPEAKS

Best-selling romance author Victoria Christopher Murray discusses her latest novel, Never Say Never, on Thursday, Sept. 26 at 7 p.m. at the Central Branch Library, 10375 Little Patuxent Pkwy., Columbia. The event is in partnership with the Columbia MD Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority.

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Say you saw it in the Beacon | Law & Money

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — O C T O B E R 2 0 1 3

Investments From page 21 emerging market debt, multiclass ETFs, specialty finance and corporate loans (including business development companies). He explains these alternatives are now available to every investor. He believes that it is time for average investors to abandon the traditional 60/40 mix of stocks and bonds and use alternative investments. He believes this approach will dramatically increase returns and reduce overall investment risk. He also discusses what he categorizes as “not-so alternative sources,” namely

Discounts From page 22 see proof that you are the age you say — especially if you look much younger than you are.

REITs, high-yield bonds, and high-dividend and preferred stocks. Rice argues that these are often overpriced, and that his alternatives provide better risk/return characteristics and better inflation protection. MLPs are an underappreciated asset class, according to Rice. Congress created these vehicles in the 1980s to spur energy infrastructure, creating attractive investor incentives. They trade publicly, do not pay entitylevel taxes, and pay out almost all their net income to investors. They can be actively managed in order to increase earnings. MLPs, in general, provide better returns than conventional bond alternatives.

Diversified multi-asset ETFs Rice indicated that multiclass ETFs are an interesting new entry as a “one-stop shop” for diversified and uncorrelated income. They combine investments in categories such as REITs, MLPs, royalties, and domestic and foreign high-dividend stocks. This is a convenient way to obtain income from diverse sources with the prospect of higher income in inflationary periods. Rice does not recommend specific investments. However, he does cite reliable sources for these alternatives. He recommends Morningstar as a source for all traded securities offering nontraditional products. For example, Morningstar provides a four-star rating for

Guggenheim Multi-Asset Income ETF (CVY), which was established in 2006. Rice recommends Miller/Howard Investments for their expertise in MLPs. In their portfolio, they hold Enterprise Product Partners (EPD) and Markwest (MWE). Recently, we have seen that traditional portfolio diversification did not protect most investors. Investors who are interested in higher income as well as protecting their capital should consider the alternatives Rice presents. Elliot Raphaelson welcomes your questions and comments at elliotraph@gmail.com. © 2013 Elliot Raphaelson. Distributed by Tribune Media Services, Inc.

free doughnut, but you have to show your AARP card. Travel and hotels: For many car rental companies, you have to be a member of AARP to take advantage of discounts. Budget Rental Cars discounts rates up to

10 percent. Among the hotel chains that offer discounts are Wyndham Hotels and Resorts, which operates under such names as Days Inn, Howard Johnson, Super 8 and Ramada. AARP members can save up to 20 per-

cent off the best available rate at its hotels, according to Christine Da Silva, a spokeswoman at Wyndham Hotel Group. Cruise bound? AARP members can save 5 percent on select Norwegian cruises. — AP

Where the discounts are The following are the types of discounts you can grab: Retailers: A diverse group of stores offer discounts, though most offer them on a certain day of the week. For example, Bealls offers “50 & Fabulous” discount days every Tuesday. The 15 percent discounts are valid at its stores only and an ID is required. At Kohl’s, shoppers age 60 and older can save an extra 15 percent every Wednesday. The discount is not available online. Gap Inc.’s Banana Republic offers 10 percent off every day for customers 65 and older. The discount can be combined with other coupons and discounts available throughout the year, according to Edie Kissko, a Gap spokeswoman. Restaurants: A vast array of eateries offer discounts, but most are limited to fast-food chains, such as IHOP and Dunkin’ Donuts. At Dunkin’ Donuts, you can order any large or extra-large beverage and get a

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O C T O B E R 2 0 1 3 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

Retirement plan fees can eat up earnings By Jill Schlesinger A Yale professor is, providing a perfect follow-up to the PBS “Frontline” episode “The Retirement Gamble” that aired earlier this year. The program detailed America’s retirement crisis and how the financial

services industry feasts on high fees inside of many employer-sponsored plans. Professor Ian Ayres has recently completed an exhaustive analysis of companysponsored 401(k) plans and found that many charge excessive fees. But Ayres

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has taken the research to a new level by sending about 6,000 letters to the companies, writing that he would disseminate the results of his study next spring and would specifically identify and expose those companies with high-cost plans. The concept of reeling in retirement plan fees gained a bit more momentum last year, when the Department of Labor put new rules into effect, which required 401(k) sponsors to disclose fees and performance data to plan participants. The first round of the more detailed information was sent in November 2012, but despite all of the media hype, those disclosures did not make much of an impact. According to the EBRI 2013 Retirement Confidence Survey, about half (53 percent) of defined contribution plan participants reported having noticed these new disclosures, and only 14 percent of those who noticed (7 per-

cent of all plan participants) said they made changes to their investments as a result.

How big a bite? To review, there are a bunch of fees that participants pay, including administrative, trustee and investment fees. The average plan costs about 1.5 percent, with larger company plans coming in at closer to 1 percent, and small to medium sized ones sometimes costing in excess of 2 percent. You may think that a half of a percent does not seem like a big difference, but that fraction could cost you literally hundreds of thousands of dollars over time. As a baseline, if you were to start with $100,000 and invest it over 50 years at a 7 percent return (compounded monthly) with no fees, you would end up with approximately $3.2 million. If you apply the average plan fee of 1.5 percent, the future amount is more than halved to just over $1.5 million. But if you are in an expensive plan and the fee is 2 percent, your future value drops to $1.2 million at the end. That’s $300,000 that could be falling to your bottom line!

Finding lower fees

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What should you do if your retirement plan is more expensive than the average? One benefit to the disclosure rules is that plan participants can be empowered to effect change. The first step is to review the disclosure that was sent. If your plan costs more than the average of 1.5 percent, gather as many coworkers as possible and lobby your boss for a cheaper plan. It may surprise the boss to learn that he or she can find cheaper alternatives. But it is notoriously difficult for smaller companies to get the best plans. The reason is that the financial services industry likes scale. It takes a lot of money to provide all of the services necessary to operate a retirement plan, so financial companies like to land the big fish. If you hit a brick wall on a new plan, then at the very least try to have cheaper investment options added to the current plan. Index funds, which carry much lower fees, can make a big difference. I recently helped a radio caller navigate her 401(k) plan investment options. By shifting from costlier actively managed funds to index funds, her cost of investing dropped from over 1 percent to just 0.25 percent. It can feel burdensome to stay on top of all of these issues, but the long-term benefit could seriously outweigh the short-term work involved. Jill Schlesinger, CFP, is the Emmy-nominated, Senior Business Analyst for CBS News. A former options trader and CIO of an investment advisory firm, Jill covers the economy, markets, investing and anything else with a dollar sign on TV, radio (including her nationally syndicated radio show), the web and her blog, “Jill on Money.” She welcomes comments and questions at askjill@jillonmoney.com. © 2013 Tribune Content Agency, LLC

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — O C T O B E R 2 0 1 3

Say you saw it in the Beacon

Travel

Leisure &

There are many ways to get your car to a distant destination besides driving it. See story on page 27.

Age-old Spain's contemporary landmarks I accomplished this and a great deal more, together with 33 others who had also booked the challenging study tour arranged by the Flying Longhorns, the travel arm of the University of Texas Alumni Association. We were a large, diverse group with different backgrounds and political leanings. But we had a sense of camaraderie thanks in large part to the patience and abiding sense of humor shown by Antonio Ruiz, our tour guide in Spain. A native of Spain with a degree in linguistics, Ruiz escorted us to scores of famous landmarks as well as to bars, restaurants and concerts. When we encountered waiting lines Ruiz waved us past like a seasoned maître d’. Four other local tour guides, all graduates of Spanish universities, also spoke to us about local lore and culture as we explored northern Spain, starting with Catalonia and the Basque Country. © SERBAN ENACHE | DREAMSTIME.COM

Casa Batlló in Barcelona was built by Antoni Gaudí between 1904 and 1906, commissioned as a private home by the textile industrialist Josep Batlló. Today, the spectacular facade is an iconic landmark in the city, and the building houses a modernist museum open to the public.

Autonomous regions Here are some of the tidbits we learned. The history of these areas predates the formation of Spain as a unified country. Indeed, the medieval kingdoms of Navarre and Aragón helped to create Spain. But neither Catalonia nor the Basque Country has ever been an official nation. Despite this, they cling to their centuries-old culture, while occasionally threatening to secede from their “mother country.” The Spanish Parliament granted autonomy to Catalonia and the Basque Country in 1979, but the debates go on even as these areas bask in their glory as some of Europe’s most popular tourist areas. The Basque language, still spoken by many, does not derive from any other language. It originated locally. Spain is geographically the highest country in Eu-

By Gwen Gibson To fully enjoy the riches of Catalonia and the Basque Country of northern Spain, it helps to have stamina, curiosity, a hearty appetite for fine wines and gourmet foods — and a knowing, multi-lingual guide with friends in high places. I realized this during a recent, 10-day trip to this beautiful, autonomous corner of Spain. Initially, four items were on my “mustdo” list. One, visit La Sagrada Familia, the magnificent cathedral created by Barcelona’s famously controversial architect, Antoni Gaudi. Two, eat pintzos (Basque-style tapas) while strolling the soft sands along San Sebastian’s sea walk. Three, visit the newest Guggenheim museum in Bilbao. Four, eat in Pamplona, where Ernest Hemmingway dined and wrote part of The Sun Also Rises.

Colorful buildings line a canal in the city of Bilbao in Basque Country. Bilbao is home to the curving limestone, glass and titanium Guggenheim Museum designed by Frank Gehry.

rope outside of Switzerland; Catalonia and the Basque Country are the highest points in Spain. The flags of Catalonia, the Basque Country and Spain are all red and yellow, but with different designs — and different admirers. Be careful what you salute. Our tour started in Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia and a bustling port city on the Mediterranean Sea. Barcelona, with a metropolitan population of 4.5 million, lies between the sea and the foothills of the Pyrenees and cannot grow “any way but up,” the locals complain with a dry laugh. The second largest city in Spain, after Madrid, Barcelona is home to a famous opera house; a 100,000-seat football stadium; a 60,000-seat Olympic stadium; noted museums like the Picasso, Miró and Maritime, and the popular Las Ramblas Boulevard that reaches from the heart of the city to the sea. Busy shops, cafes, markets and street performers keep this stretch alive, day and night. But nothing here attracts tourists like the works of Antoni Gaudi, the modernisme, or art nouveau, architect who was 100 years ahead of his time. His creations include ornate early lampposts, the several houses he designed (and which locals boast inspired Star Wars creator George Lucas), the magnificent Parc Guell in suburban Barcelona, and La Sagrada Familia, or the Sacred Family, the

city’s number-one tourist attraction and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Construction on La Sagrada Familia started in 1832. Gaudi worked on it for 41 years and is buried in the crypt. But the magnificent cathedral is not yet finished. Six architects are still at work here. Completion is scheduled for 2026, on the 100th anniversary of Gaudi’s death. “But don’t bank on that,” one worker laughed. From Barcelona we travelled by private bus to Zaragoza, San Sebastian, Bilbao and Pamplona. Since billboards are limited on these roads, we could see clearly the green fields, poppies and wildflowers along the way. We also hiked on city streets, rural routes and mountainsides. Antonio equipped us with headphones, called “whispers,” to keep us informed — and in line, so no one wandered off to a bazaar or bar.

Capital of Basque country We also needed the headphones in San Sebastian, the proud capital of the Basque Country, which extends from the foothills of the Pyrenees into southern France. Site of many landmarks, museums and parks, San Sebastian also beckons tourists with a four-mile oceanfront promenade that wraps around the city’s beaches. You See SPAIN, page 26

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Spain From page 25 get a sweeping view of this from atop nearby Mounte Igeldo where — on a clear day — you can also see France. Like Antonio, our lecturer here, David Bumstead, emphasized that San Sebastian “is one of the safest cities in the world.” He alluded to the ETA — the violent separatist group that operated out of the Basque country of Spain and southern France for years. ETA translates in English to “Basque independence and security.” “The ETA is no longer big,” Bumstead stressed. “It went too far, did some terrible things. But they have since become marginalized and have declared a permanent ceasefire.” We also learned that Ferdinand Magellan was not the first to circumnavigate the

world. He was killed during a battle in the Philippines. His second in command, Juan Sebastian Elcano, a Basque explorer, took over and completed the voyage. A monument to Sebastian Elcano stands in Gitaria, a seaside community near San Sebastian. Bilbao, another city with little crime, was transformed from a dark industrial town, known for exporting steel and coal, into a clean and popular tourist site after the Guggenheim Museum opened here in 1997. Designed by Frank Gehry, the distinctive building is constructed of limestone, glass and more than 30,000 thin titanium plates that change color dramatically as the weather changes. From some angles, it looks more like a sculpture than a building. Bilbao landed the handsome museum by paying millions for the building and the Guggenheim name with taxpayer dollars.

BEACON BITS

Sept. 28

WORKSHOP ON PERSONAL GROWTH The Domestic Violence Center of Howard County will host a Discovery Workshop focusing on creative activities to help move

forward with a “new normal” in personal growth and healthy relationships. The workshop will be held on Saturday, Sept. 28 from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Center, 5457 Twin Knolls Rd., Columbia. The program is designed for individuals who are not in crisis to explore new options in their lives. Admission is free, but donations are welcomed. To register, call Vanita Leatherwood at (410) 997-0304 or email vleatherwood@dvcenter.org.

O C T O B E R 2 0 1 3 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

The Guggenheim Foundation chooses the art exhibited, which is mainly modern or Impressionistic.

Running of the bulls In sharp contrast, the principal attraction in Pamplona is the raucous, week-long Festival of San Fermín, which opens with hundreds of bullfighting fans running through city streets to the bull ring, ahead of six frightened bulls. Held each year from July 6 to July 14, it honors Saint Fermín, the city’s first bishop and patron saint, who was beheaded in France in the third century. All of Catalonia and San Sebastian in the Basque country have banned bull fighting, but this remains Pamplona’s most lucrative attraction. The hotel room where Hemingway stayed during the bullfighting festival now costs 2,000 euros per day. Orson Wells stayed here once and skipped out on his bill. Proudly framed, the bill hangs in the hotel lobby. “If you have anything bad to say about Hemingway, don’t say it here,” lecturer Guillem Genestar said. “If you have anything bad to say about France, go right ahead.” Our close-knit group of 34 had a fourcourse meal fit for a matador at Café Iruña, where photos of Hemingway still line the walls. As I told you, this trip took stamina. But

if I could do it in my 80s, so can you. It’s worth the effort. Catalonia and the Basque Country, combined, are no larger than New Hampshire. But the welcome you feel here is many times as big.

Planning your trip British Airlines offers the lowest midOctober fare from BWI to Barcelona at $1,005 roundtrip. If you aren’t taking a package tour, like the one I and my fellow alumni took, I recommend the Hotel Cristal Palace in Barcelona (www.eurostarscristalpalace.com), where rates start at about $190 a night, and the seaside Hotel Londres y de Inglaterra (London and England) in San Sebastian (www.hlondres.com/en), for about $310 a night. Both have great dinner and breakfast restaurants and are located in the heart of the city near many sights. Restaurants we enjoyed in Barcelona, outside the hotel, included the Citrus Restaurant on the Passeig de Gracia, which specializes in Mediterranean cuisine, and the Catalan restaurant Pomarada, on the same street. In San Sebastian, we enjoyed a seaside dinner at the La Perla restaurant. For lunches, we strolled the waterfront looking for the best places to try “pintxos” (pinchos) or tapas, the local specialty. Gwen Gibson is a freelance writer living in Austin, Texas.

BEACON BITS

Ongoing

SHARE YOUR COMPUTER SAVVY

Computer Seniors of America is looking for volunteers to teach one or two courses a month to seniors needing assistance with their computers. For more information, call (410) 336-5878.

Oct. 12

ANTIQUES APPRAISAL FAIR

The Second Annual Antiques Appraisal Fair sponsored by the Howard County Historical Society will be held on Saturday, Oct. 12 on the Howard Community College campus from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. All appraisals will be done by John Caplan Harris and Shelley Harris of Maryland’s Busiest Auction. Tickets are required; members of the Historical Society pay $8 and non-members $12 for two appraisals. The cost is $5 for each additional appraisal. The appraisal fair will be held in the Kittleman Room, Duncan Hall at HCC, 10901 Little Patuxent Parkway, Columbia. For more information tickets, visit www.hchsmd.org.

Talking on the phone can be easy again. You have our word.

Using voice recognition technology, a Captioned Telephone operator makes it possible for you to receive on-screen captions of what your caller says as you listen. You may qualify for a Captioned Telephone, amplified phone, or other devices through the Maryland Accessible Telecommunications program at no cost.

To learn more, visit mdrelay.org or call 1-800-552-7724 (Voice/TTY).

Captioned Telephone from Maryland Relay

R55Word-for-word captions R55Easy-to-read display R55Simple to use

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Leisure & Travel

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — O C T O B E R 2 0 1 3

Getting your car to a distant destination By Victor Block Every year, countless residents of the Washington area follow migrating birds south to Florida and other warm-weather destinations to escape frigid winter temperatures and the snow and ice that accompany them. Others from the same region and across the country are on the go because they are vacationing or wintering elsewhere or moving to a new state. Whether traveling for a vacation, work or another reason, a major decision people face is how to get where they wish to go and how to have transportation when they arrive. The choice boils down to four basic alternatives, each of which has pros and cons. If you’re planning a “snow bird” winter escape to Florida or another southern sun spot, or a temporary or permanent move elsewhere, it pays to give some thought to the available options.

On the road Driving your vehicle to your destination has both advantages and disadvantages. On a positive note, you can fill a car with more suitcases and personal belongings than you could transport by plane or train, and you don’t have to rent a car at your destination.

On the other hand, driving means paying for tolls, hotel stays, meals and fuel. There’s also the hidden cost of wear and tear on your vehicle (not to mention on yourself), which can be substantial during a trip of hundreds or even thousands of miles.

Riding the rails Passengers aboard trains don’t have to worry about high excess luggage fees like those who fly. (Amtrak allows two checked bags free, and charges $20 each for up to 2 additional bags.) Still, dealing with enough

suitcases for a lengthy stay in a home away from home can be cumbersome at best. Train travel also has added costs, including food purchased aboard, and the See CAR TRANSPORT, page 28

BEACON BITS Taking to the air Some people prefer the speed of traveling by air, which gets you where you want to be in the quickest possible way. Of course, airline tickets can be expensive, but part of that cost may be offset because there are no expenditures for hotel or motel rooms, meals and gas en route, as there are for those who drive their car. On the other hand, while they reach their destination quickly, people who fly are subject to the whims of public transportation when they arrive, unless they rent a car, which can be costly for an extended stay. Another challenge for folks who fly is that the size and number of suitcases they can check through and carry on a plane are limited. That can be a big drawback for anyone planning a lengthy vacation trip, though there are ways to ship bags ahead of time as well. [See “Airlines will shlep your bags for a price,” June Beacon, page 25.]

Oct. 2

UPDATE ON ISRAEL Al Biegel, a retired U.S. Army Colonel, will present an update of

the contemporary challenges facing Israel. He will highlight prospects for resumption of the aborted Israeli-Palestinian peace negotiations and other key regional threats. The talk takes place on Wednesday, Oct. 2 at 11:30 a.m. at the Jewish Federation of Howard County, 10630 Little Patuxent Pkwy., #400, Columbia. For additional information, email SNovinsky@JewishHowardCounty.org, or call Sophie (410) 730-4976, x103

Oct. 3

AN EVENING WITH EDGAR ALLAN POE Edgar Allan Poe, portrayed by Mark Grimes, professor of English at Howard Community College, presents a night of mesmerizing

tales, haunted stories, moving verse and insights into the Gothic tale that was Poe’s life. The event takes place on Thursday, Oct. 3 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Central Branch of the Howard County Library, 10375 Little Patuxent Pkwy., Columbia. For more information, call (410) 313-7800.

Leisure & Travel | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

Car transport From page 27 added price of sleeping accommodations for those on overnight trips who don’t want to try to snooze sitting up. Some Florida-bound travelers take the Amtrak Auto Train, which transports passengers together with their automobile from Lorton, Va., to Sanford, Fla., just out-

side of Orlando. The daily trip takes 17 and a half hours. The basic one-way price for two passengers and one car varies by date, but runs in the range of $400 to $600 in coach, and $750 to $1,200 for a sleeper (the upper end includes a private toilet and shower). Dinner and continental breakfast are included in the ticket price. Of course, those heading for places in

BEACON BITS

Oct. 7

CONTEMPORARY FICTION BOOK CLUB Discuss The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry by Rachel Joyce at

the October meeting of the Contemporary Fiction Book club at the Glenwood Branch of the Howard County Library, 2350 State Route 97, Cooksville. Call (410) 313-5577 for further information.

Ongoing

MARYLAND RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL Join jousters, jugglers, archers and more at this annual step back in time to the 16th century. The Maryland Renaissance Festival takes

place weekends through Oct. 20 at the Crownsville Festival Fairgrounds. Tickets are $8-$22. For more information, visit www.marylandrenaissancefestival.com.

Oct. 13

ALL ABOARD! The Chesapeake and Allegheny Live Steam Preservation Society gives rides on scaled-down steam trains for both adults and kids

at Leakin Park. Train rides are available from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission is free though donations are welcome. Parking is available near the Eagle Drive entrance to the park, off of Windsor Mill Rd. in Baltimore.

O C T O B E R 2 0 1 3 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

Florida other than Orlando (or to other southern or western states) still have to drive to their final destination, which adds more hours, and dollars, to the trip.

Cars on trucks Then there are those who combine the speed of flying, or a nostalgic journey by train, with the benefits of having use of their own vehicle at their vacation destination. While they fly or ride, their car is carried there on an open or enclosed transport truck. The truck, but not the cars on it, adds hundreds of miles to its odometer. Your car’s trunk may be filled with luggage, clothing bags and other items needed for an extended stay. Some companies do not encourage this, however, as they do not take responsibility for materials lost or stolen from the vehicles. Auto transport companies offer terminal-to-terminal service, door-to-door pickup and delivery, or both. Charges for car transportation vary, and it’s important to know exactly what you’re getting for your money. For example, a comparison of prices from several companies for picking up a car in the Washington, D.C., area and delivering it to Sarasota, Fla., ranged from $570 to $740. Also, most companies schedule pick-up and delivery of cars during a range of dates that can be as long as a week. Each transportation service offers its

own benefits and deals. Here are some to consider: Autolog Auto Transport, the originator of shipping privately owned cars, schedules vehicle pick-ups on a specific date, and — unlike some companies — does not charge a cancellation fee. It delivers door-to-door and also has a partnership with the Auto Train. For a free price quote, call 1-866-4251125 or visit autologmarketing.net/beacon. Carbone Auto Transportation picks up vehicles within one to seven days and offers only door-to-door service. Visit www.carbonetransportation.com or call 1888-511-1888 for pricing. Corporate Auto Transport offers open and enclosed carriers. It encourages planahead scheduling (one to two weeks) but also offers expedited shipping (pick up within 72 hours) for an extra fee. Visit www.corporateautotransport.com for a price quote. Both Stateway Auto Transport and Harvester Trucking offer door-to-door service only. They also provide vehicle tracking while en route and the option of enclosed carriers at a higher fee. Enclosed carriers offer more protection for vehicles, which may be worthwhile for luxury or newer cars. For more about Stateway and a price quote, visit www.statewayauto.com or call 1-877-848-7474. For Harvester Trucking, visit www.harvestertrucking.com or call (815) 679-6742.

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — O C T O B E R 2 0 1 3

Say you saw it in the Beacon

Style

Arts &

Jeffrey Shankle plays Marius and MaryKate Brouillet is Eponine in Les Miserables at Toby’s Dinner Theatre.

Toby’s robust, masterful Les Miserables bust, colorful and full-throated production at Toby’s Dinner Theatre in Columbia. They’re touting it as their most ambitious show ever, and while scenic elements are necessarily constrained because of Toby’s in-the-round layout, a newcomer to the show will get a deep appreciation of why this is now the world’s longest-running musical. And longtime fans will enjoy another chance to wallow in the epic passions, broken dreams and redemption of the human spirit the lush score explores. The timing is ironic, as this bold production coincides with the sudden closing of Toby’s sister theater in Baltimore. Like the quiet passing of drive-in theaters from the American landscape, dinner theaters

are edging ever closer to extinction, a victim of...what, exactly? Changing demographics? A bad economy? Have people stopped enjoying the comforts of an ample buffet and drinks on the table in addition to seeing a show? I’m not sure why some self-styled theater aficionados (and a certain daily news-

paper which itself is going the way of the drive-in) view dinner theater as something not deserving of attention. But let them miss out, as long as you go see this show. Enjoy the brunch or dinner that’s included in your ticket price, too. See LES MIS, page 30

PHOTO BY CHRIS CHRISTIANSEN

By Michael Toscano Garishly sentimental, and with a score that’s fully drenched in overheated melodrama, the musical Les Misérables could be a long, three-hour slog for theatergoers who appreciate subtlety. Almost all of the songs are mighty anthems, with only a rare break for a ballad or fun tune; characters are drawn with a broad brush; and it is a significant challenge for singers, as it relentlessly tries to grab you by the heartstrings and shake you all about. And yet, as we know, Les Misérables is a magnificent, sumptuous feast of a show when it is performed properly. So, good news! All the strengths of the Boubil and Schönberg Tony Award-winner are on full display in a ro-

CC S www.candlelightconcerts.org 410.997.2324

2013-2014 Chamber Music Series

In its inspiring production of Les Miserables, Toby’s Dinner Theatre creatively accommodates its in-the-round stage by using see-through scaffolding as a barricade. The epic musical continues through Nov. 19.

Two Amazing Shows You Won’t Want To Miss!

JUPITER STRING QUARTET & JAMES DUNHAM,

NOW PLAYING

OPENING NOVEMBER 15

Guest Violist October 19, 2013 “lush tone, a fine sense of color… energy and polish.” – NY Times

DOVER STRING QUARTET October 5, 2013 Season Opener! Winner of the 2014 Banff International String Quartet Competition and resident quartet at the Curtis Institute of Music perform works by Janáˇcek, Shostakovich and Sessler (World Premiere).

MECCORRE STRING QUARTET November 9, 2013 Arriving from Poland for their North American Tour Debut

miXt BENJAMIN BEILMAN, VIOLIN JOSÉ FRANCH-BALLESTER, CLARINET RAN DANK, PIANO December 14, 2013 Three Young Concert Artist winners

Saturdays at 8:00 PM, Smith Theatre, Horowitz Center Pre-concert lectures at 7:15PM

Tickets: Adult $32 / Senior $30

Funded In Part, by Grants from The Maryland State Arts Council, The Howard County Arts Council Through a Grant From Howard County, The Community Foundation of Howard County, and The Rouse Company Foundation.

A Must See in-the-round

A true classic; this joyous, heart-warming musical is perfect for the holidays.

TOBY’S DINNER THEATRE OF COLUMBIA • CALL 410-730-8311 Based on availability. Due to the nature of theatre bookings, all shows, dates and times are subject to change.

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RESERVE YOUR SEATS TODAY!

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Les Mis From page 29 And then, when the show picks up some coveted Helen Hayes Award nominations, you can brag that you were there.

A gritty opera lite This is the Cameron Mackintosh production of Victor Hugo’s 250-year old novel, adapted into a sung-through musical in which many of the songs encompass entire long scenes. It’s not light opera, but with almost no spoken dialogue, and with the heavy subject matter explored in tech-

nically demanding singing, it could be called opera lite. Les Misérables pulls us back in time to the grim prisons, raucous inns and gritty factories, the sewers and streets of France from 1815 to 1832. Saint-like Jean Valjean (Daniel Felton) has been jailed for 19 years after stealing bread to feed a starving child. Finally released, but under the watch of an obsessed police inspector Javert (Lawrence B. Munsey), he skips parole, which would have further condemned him to a life of poverty and misery, and becomes a successful factory owner under

O C T O B E R 2 0 1 3 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

an assumed name. Along the way, he takes in the waiflike Cosette (Katie Heidbreder), daughter of an ill-fated employee, Fantine (Janine Sunday). With Javert relentlessly stalking him, Valjean gets drawn in to a citizen uprising against the unpopular government, and a giant barricade is erected in the streets for a bloody final showdown.

Innovative sets and choreography The unique feature of Toby’s production is, of course, that it is performed in the round. As always, directors Toby Orenstein and Steven Fleming make efficient use of the cramped space. They creatively use pools of darkness and light to aid in quick scene transitions, and they position and rearrange their two dozen cast members in tightly choreographed action that make it all seem quite natural. Those familiar with the show, and Toby’s, will wonder how the heck they manage to stage a giant barricade. Well, set designer David Hopkins utilizes scaffolding to brilliant effect. Massive segments are squeezed in through side entrances and rapidly assembled. Because it’s scaffolding, you can see through the set even as actors clamber all over it, singing their hearts out. You don’t miss a thing from any angle. (Although I did worry a few times that a wig or two was perilously close to hot

lights in the ceiling and might burst into flames. Then again, that added some edgy suspense.) Those sewers? A bridge from which someone plummets to death (while singing, yet)? Again, inventive use of scaffolding.

Onstage chemistry Felton and Munsey, as Valjean and Javert, provide inspired interpretations of their roles, the pairing creating combustible chemistry. Felton’s sweetly inflected tenor capably climbs the upper reaches of songs, sounding positively angelic in the high registers of act two’s “Bring Him Home.” He obviously works hard to plumb some of the lower depths of the score, which occasionally tires out his voice when he then has to reach for big, loud notes. But it is an award-worthy performance, his face a study in humility and pain. Munsey is a more-than-worthy counterweight, looking as though he just stepped out of an oil painting. His Javert is a malevolent figure in dark, form-fitting costumes, his face a permanent sneer. Munsey’s powerful baritone befits the character, and if his body is rightly rigid with authority and intensity, his singing is fluidly dynamic. In Act One’s “Come to Me,” Felton and Munsey circle each other like boxers, facSee LES MIS, page 31

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H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — O C T O B E R 2 0 1 3

Les Mis From page 30 ing off in an escalating cycle of revelation as Valjean realizes he can no longer live a lie. It’s a rare moment of introspection in the show, as he saves an innocent man but makes himself vulnerable to his enemy. Playing off Munsey’s glowering visage and mounting emotion, Felton’s work is delicate here, the power of the song and the turning point it represents completely realized. And yet, it’s just a pair of actors in a pool of light. So much for scenic extravaganza, shown to be irrelevant here.

Vibrant performances Providing substantial backup is the work of Helen Hayes winner Theresa Cunningham as the conniving innkeeper Madame Thenardier. Cunningham is paired with David James as her monsieur. The scene in their inn — with the lively “Master of the House” and “Thenardier Waltz” — is a show highlight, with energetic fun and toe-tapping music. While both supply plenty of wily charm, Cunningham radiates a vibrantly ribald presence every second she is onstage. It’s hard to imagine she is the same actor who took home the Hayes award as the tragic Sofia in Toby’s The Color Purple. As Eponine, daughter of the Thenardiers, MaryKate Brouillet is a soothing presence. Her warm, full voice is an expressive balm as

she aids the attempted revolution and — despite her own love for the revolutionary Marius (Jeffrey Shankle) — assists in his burgeoning love affair with Cosette. Brouillet’s work is exquisitely nuanced, and she adds a welcome sensual ambiance. Sunday’s Fantine and Heidbreder’s Cosette are workmanlike performances, but each actor lacks the full vocal abilities required by some of the songs. The duets between Cosette and Marius thus fail to reach their full potential, despite Shankle’s tender singing. Also of note is the work of the small orchestra tucked away in a second-floor room adjacent to the stage. With just a couple of keyboards, a rare live violin, and trumpet, reeds and trombone, they fill the space with pulsing, eardrum-pressing music. Musical director Christopher Youstra’s whittling down of the sumptuous, demanding music to a handful of instruments maintains the score’s integrity quite well. This show is usually operating at fever pitch, emotionally, which can exhaust an audience. But directors Orenstein and Fleming shake up the dynamics whenever possible, allowing the audience a chance to refresh their sensibilities. There are considerable shifts in Act Two’s lengthy “A Little Fall of Rain,” which ranges from hope to promise to tragedy. The ensemble’s energy never flags as they segue from one complicated moment to

the next, and the audience can keep up every step of the way. In short, this is a satisfying, worthwhile production. Les Misérables continues through Nov. 19 at Toby’s Dinner Theatre, 5900 Symphony Woods Rd., Columbia. The show runs seven days a week, with evening (dinner) and matinee (brunch) performances. The doors open at 6 p.m. for the all-you-can-eat dinner buffet Monday through Saturday, with the show at 8 p.m. Doors open at 5 p.m. for the Sunday evening 7 p.m. performance. Doors open for matinee performances at 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays and Sundays for

brunch. The performance begins at 12:30 p.m. Reservations are required. Ticket prices range from $37.50 to $56, depending on date and time. Ticket prices include the allyou-can-eat buffet, dessert, and coffee or tea. Specialty drinks and desserts are available at extra cost. Waiters are actually the actors as well, and they rely heavily on tips for their pay. There is ample, free parking on the premises. For reservations and information, call (410) 730-8311 or 1-800-88TOBYS (8886297). You may also visit www.tobysdinnertheatre.com.

Columbia Pro Cantare “Choral Postcards from Europe” October 26, 2013, 8 PM

Frances Motyca Dawson, Conductor. 37th Season! Jim Rouse Theatre, 5460 Trumpeter Rd., Columbia 21044

Columbia Pro Cantare, CPC Chamber singers, Laura Whittenberger, soprano James Farlow, tenor, Alison Gatwood, piano, Erik Apland, piano. Festival Orchestra. Brahms, Liebeslieder Waltzer, Opus 52 Bach, Lobet den Herrn, alle Heiden Sponsored by: Mozart, Regina Coeli in B, KV127 Verdi, Ave Maria from Quattro pezzi sacri Britten, A Birthday Hansel, poems of Robert Burns Strauss, Durch Einsamkeiten Brahms, Four Songs, Opus 17for Harp and Horns

For information and tickets: 410-799-9321 or 301-854-0107

www.procantare.org

Friday, October 18, 2013 9:00 am - 4:00 pm Wilde Lake High School 5460 Trumpeter Road, Columbia, MD

FREE ADMISSION!

Celebrating 15 years of Healthy Aging! Over 150 Exhibitors • Healthy Aging Seminars • Life-Enriching Workshops Health Fair • Flu & Pneumonia Vaccines • Ideas & Demonstrations for Living Green PLUS All Day Entertainment & Food in the 50+ Cafe!

50+EXPO Parking is at the Mall in Columbia by Sears with FREE Shuttle Service to the EXPO Front Door! PLATINUM LEVEL SPONSORS:

GOLD LEVEL SPONSORS: Advanced Hearing Group • Evergreens Columbia Town Center • Howard County Health Department Lorien Health Systems • Orthopaedic Associates of Central Maryland MEDIA SPONSORS:

Baltimore Sun Media Group • CMRT • Guide to Retirement Living SourceBook • Her Mind Magazine • The Beacon • The Business Monthly

Find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/HoCo50PlusEXPO

FOR MORE INFO: 410-313-6410 www.howardcountyaging.org

To request a sign language interpreter or other accommodations to attend this event, please call 410-313-5980 by October 11.

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O C T O B E R 2 0 1 3 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

Fab 50+

BEACON BITS

Ongoing

From page 1

OUTDOOR SCULPTURE PROPOSALS WANTED

The Howard County Arts Council is seeking proposals by Friday, Oct. 25 for outdoor sculptures to be featured in the ARTsites program May 2014 through July 2015. Selected artists will be awarded a $2,500 grant to participate in the exhibit. For guidelines and submission information, visit hocoarts.org or call (410) 313-2787.

Oct. 4+

FOLLOW DRACULA THROUGH RUINS

Chesapeake Shakespeare Company presents Dracula under the stars at the ruins of the Patapsco Female Institute beginning Friday, Oct. 4 through Thursday, Oct. 31. All performances begin at 8 p.m. and are “moveable” — the audience follows the actors through the scenes in different parts of the Institute’s ruins. The Institute is located in the Patapsco Female Institute Historic Park, 3691 Sarah’s Ln., Ellicott City. Tickets range from $29 to $38 and can be purchased online at www.chesapeakeshakespeare.com or by calling (410) 313-8661.

hind the scenes rather than taking the risk of appearing under the bright lights. Then, last year — what the hell — she sashayed from the back stage to face the audience and let the women out there know that the important thing wasn’t the men in their life, but the life in their men, as well as other Mae West witticisms. When she was given a choice to perform in the vaudeville show as Sophie Tucker or Mae West, Henry had no problem in deciding. “I always liked Mae West’s attitude,” said Henry, 71. “She was bawdy, a little crude maybe, but honest and funny. And she wore feathers and diamonds!

“I realized acting on stage, rather than being behind it, was really fun,” she added. “As you get older, you come to the point that little things such as stage fright don’t matter. When people see you having fun, they have fun.” Bob Hauck appeared in community theater productions while keeping his day job with the federal government for over 40 years. And he was once a radio broadcaster, also doing commercials and voice-overs. “I just thought I could do Jimmy Durante,” he said of his audition for the Fabs. It brought down the house, and he became the Schnozzola for the vaudeville review. Being out there on stage “makes a difference,” Hauck said, and is more rewardSee FAB 50+, page 33

BEACON BITS

Oct, 19

CANDLELIGHT SERIES PRESENTS JUPITER STRINGS

Guest violist James Dunham will be featured in the Jupiter String Quartet concert on Saturday, Oct. 19 at 8 p.m. at the Horowitz Performing Arts Center, 10901 Little Patuxent Pkwy., Columbia. The program will include works by Haydn, Britten and Brahms. Tickets are $32 for adults, $30 for seniors and $12 for students. For more information, visit www.candlelightconcerts.org or call (410) 997-2324.

NewBegins Here

Oct, 10

Your

Lifestyle

APARTMENT HOMES FOR THOSE 62 AND BETTER!

Ask about our Smoke Free Communities

DESIGNED AND MANAGED FOR TODAY’S SENIORS AT THESE LOCATIONS: ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY

EASTERN SHORE

• Furnace Branch 410-761-4150

• Easton 410-770-3070

• Severna Park 410-544-3411

HARFORD COUNTY

BALTIMORE CITY

• Bel Air 410-893-0064

• Ashland Terrace 410-276-6440

• Box Hill 410-515-6115

• Coldspring 410-542-4400

HOWARD COUNTY

BALTIMORE COUNTY

• Columbia 410-381-1118

• Dundalk 410-288-5483

• Ellicott City 410-203-9501

date: Wednesday, October 23, 2013 time: 8:30 – 10:00 a.m. location: Lighthouse Senior Living at Ellicott City

• Emerson 301-483-3322

• Randallstown 410-655-5673

• Snowden River 410-290-0384

• Laurel 301-490-1526

learn more by calling (410) 997-0610 or visit www.cogsmd.org Thank you to our 2013 Executive Members

* Rosedale 410-866-1886 *Newly Renovated! PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY • Towson 410-828-7185

3100 North Ridge Road, Ellicott City, MD 21043

speaker: Dr. DV, Integrative Internal Medicine Specialist, The Columbia Center for Integrative Medicine topic: Staying Healthy at Any Age

• Miramar Landing 410-391-8375

* Bladensburg 301-699-9785

Coalition of Geriatric Services

october meeting

* Fullerton 410-663-0665 *Newly Renovated! • Ellicott City II 410-203-2096

• Taylor 410-663-0363

The Longfellow Garden Club of Howard County will hold an open house on Thursday, Oct. 10 at 7 p.m. at the Bain Center, 5470 Ruth Keeton Way, Columbia. A demonstration of making a Thanksgiving centerpiece with natural materials will be highlighted. For more information, call (443) 803-4850.

We’re a coalition of nonproﬁts, agencies, businesses and professionals who come together to advocate for and help older adults.

*Newly Renovated! • Colonial Landing 410-796-4399

• Catonsville 410-719-9464

THANKSGIVING CENTERPIECES

• 55 or BETTER!

Platinum members Howard County General Hospital – Johns Hopkins Medicine • The Beacon Newspapers

Gold members

• Laurel II 301-490-9730

Being There Senior Care • Gary L. Kaufman Funeral Home at Meadowridge Memorial Park Howard County Oﬃce on Aging • Visiting Angels

www.ParkViewSeniorLiving.com

American Remodeling Group • Carney, Kelehan, Bresler, Bennett & Scherr, LLP • Deborah L. Herman, CPA Ellicott City Health & Rehabilitation Center (Communicare) • Ellicott City Pharmacy • EMA-Copper Ridge

• Woodlawn 410-281-1120

silver members bronze members

Call the community nearest you to inquire about eligibility requirements and to arrange a personal tour or email parkviewliving@sheltergrp.com. Professionally managed by The Shelter Group. www.thesheltergroup.com

Earl Wilkinson, M.D., ENT • Gentiva Health Services • Home Instead Senior Care HomeWatch Caregivers • Lighthouse Senior Living at Ellicott City • Professional Healthcare Resources, Inc. Sterling-Ashton-Schwab-Witzke Funeral Home of Catonsville, Inc. • The Bob Lucido Team Trevor Barringer JD/MBA • Whaley Financial Services • Witzke Funeral Homes Inc. of Columbia Wood Builders Collaborative

Patron members Alzheimer’s Association – Greater MD Chapter • Brighton Gardens of Columbia Brooke Grove Retirement Village • Chesapeake Bay Aquatic & Physical Therapy • Craig Witzke Funeral Care Elizabeth Cooney Care Network • Home With You • Ivy Manor Normandy, Inc. Morningside House of Ellicott City •Progressive Care at Home Right At Home – In Home Care & Assistance

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Arts & Style

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — O C T O B E R 2 0 1 3

Fab 50+ From page 32 ing than being behind a mike, as he was during his earlier radio days. Performing before a live audience “gives you energy, it gives you that spark,” he said. Shirley Bishop of Catonsville is the brains behind the vaudeville review. Or, as she says more modestly, she “helped develop the idea” of bringing back those good old days. Bishop did research on the stars and their performances. A former occupational therapist who worked with mental health patients, Bishop was drawn to song-and-dance way back, probably when she was about 13, she said. She also appeared in community theater productions. She remembers fondly performing as a nurse in South Pacific when it was presented at the historic St. Bartholomew’s Church in New York, where Leopold Stokowski once directed the choir.

In the vaudeville skit, she plays one of the Dolly Sisters. “I love doing song and dance,” said Bishop, 78. “It was a gift given to me. I seldom used it when I was younger. I was a shy girl. It took me a while, but now I’m back.” Among the other local residents performing in the vaudeville show are husband Bill and director Phyllis Stanley as George Burns and Gracie Allen; Jackie Dunphy, of Ellicott City, as Eva Tanguay; Jay Fred Cohen, Columbia, as Eddie Cantor; Shirley Greenwald, Columbia, as the other Dolly sister; Audrey Sanders, Hallethorpe, playing Sophie Tucker; Doug Williams, Baltimore, as Bert Williams; Paula Rehr, Ellicott City, as Fanny Brice; Bob Hoke and Bill Stanley as Smith and Dale; and Tom Kowalski of Catonsville as Harry Lauder. For more information on the Fabulous 50+ Players and their performances, or to learn about rehearsals and auditions, call (410) 313-2787.

Tell them you saw it in the Beacon!

BEACON BITS

Nov. 1

HONOR AN ARTIST

The Howard County Arts Council is seeking nominations before Friday, Nov. 1 for the annual Howie Awards honoring an outstanding artist, arts educator and business or community supporter of the arts in the county. The awards will be presented at the Celebration of the Arts in Howard County on March 29, 2014. For more information or a nomination form, visit the Arts Council website www.hocoarts.org or call (410) 313-2787.

Visit our 24-hour stores and pharmacies throughout Montgomery County, day or night. BETHESDA (301) 656-2522

FROM PAGE 34 ANSWERS TO SCRABBLE

6917 Arlington Rd.

GAITHERSBURG (301) 948-6886

19100 Montgomery Village Ave.

GAITHERSBURG (301) 948-3250

546 North Frederick Ave.

KENSINGTON (301) 962-8090

3715 University Blvd. West

NORTH POTOMAC (301) 251-0024 OLNEY (301) 774-6155

9920 Key West Ave.

3110 Olney Sandy Spring Rd.

ROCKVILLE (301) 299-3717

7955 Tuckerman Lane

ANSWERS TO CROSSWORD N O F A E R A S T I N K L E E V E R R A T A U T O S L E P T R E R C H A C H I T L O K I O R E O D E R N

T E E N S Y T E E N

D D E E R N S R W I T H O L A O O S L I G M A L U S I T N D E B D E L S E L U P C E M E E A M A L D O U B L E N V Y S E E

H I E S S T E E D S

S H O R T S W I M I M P E L

H O T E L

U N I F Y

E T E R N A L L Y

R E T A G

N E S S

D E N S

A Y T A L Y D1895RX13_Beacon

O C T O B E R 2 0 1 3 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

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Puzzle Page

Crossword Puzzle Daily crosswords can be found on our website: www.TheBeaconNewspapers.com Click on Puzzles Plus Pro-gression by Stephen Sherr 1

Scrabble answers on p. 33.

33 39

40 45

44 48

38 43

19 21

18 20

42 47

46 51

52 56

59 62

67 69

Across

Down

1. Yogurt shop’s claim 6. The first supreme commander of NATO, in 1951 9. Punish, socially 13. Reset a contacts list 14. Sea eagles 16. Make a point 17. Manipulate, experimentally 19. Cookie-meister Spunkmeyer 20. Midnight rambler 21. Neighbor of a Vietnamese 22. Umps’ striped cousins 23. Almost imperceptibly 27. Maze enthusiast 28. Singer Sumac 29. San ___ Obispo, Calif. 30. Type of loan 32. Try to get into a bar 34. Less exciting, to a historian 37. Used the bears’ third bed 39. Cotillion girl 41. Positioned 43. Like a shady park 45. Windy City trains 47. Distribute 48. Kite line holder 50. Good times 52. Tried to become Class President 53. Elevator encounters 57. Voucher 58. Org. with a snake in its logo 59. Champagne Tony of golf 60. Norse god 61. Result of the name pro-gression from 17 to 23 to 53 Across 65. Ice cream flavor 66. Emotion in Snow White 67. travelocity option 68. Actress Laura 69. Understand 70. In a foxlike way

1. Ping pong table accessory 2. “Stop ___ shoot!” 3. Autograph request 4. Jeopardy! contestant 5. Itsy-bitsy 6. Mountain ___ 7. Work on a tooth 8. Necessitate 9. Just a few laps 10. Flophouse 11. Join together 12. Bitter end 15. General Japanese term 18. 10 Down units 23. Renaissance and Reformation 24. Underground chamber 25. “That’s what she ___” 26. Hurries up 31. It added “Brain Freeze” in a 2004 contest 33. Piece of golf course litter 35. In perpetuity 36. Price less 38. Cotillion girl 40. Cloudless 42. Lairs 44. Period between censuses 46. Distinguish between so and sew 49. Poorly made cars 51. War horses 53. Item on a wheel of misfortune 54. Consumer of trail mix 55. Magenta’s neighbor, on a color wheel 56. Drive on 57. Simpleton 62. “Toodles” 63. Div. rival to NYM 64. “Whoopee!”

Answers on page 33.

JUMBLE ANSWERS Jumbles: PARTY GOOSE EXHORT AERATE Answer: What the diner said when the server sprinkled cheese on the pasta -- THAT’S “GRATE”

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — O C T O B E R 2 0 1 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; Miscellaneous; Personals; Personal Services; Vacation Opportunities; and Wanted. For submission guidelines and deadlines, see the box on the bottom of this page. CAVEAT EMPTOR! The Beacon does not knowingly accept obscene, offensive, harmful, or fraudulent advertising. However, we do not investigate any advertisers or their products and cannot accept responsibility for the integrity of either. Respondents to classified advertising should always use caution and their best judgment. EMPLOYMENT & REAL ESTATE ADS: We will not knowingly or intentionally accept advertising in violation of federal, state, and local laws prohibiting discrimination based on race, color, national origin, sex, familial status or handicap in connection with employment or the sale or rental of real estate.

For Sale 2 SALVADOR DALI woodblock prints from Dante’s Divine Comedy. Signed and framed. Asking $900 for the pair. Can email pictures if desired. Call Steve 410-913-1653.

Home & Handyman Services BASEMENT OR FOUNDATION PROBLEMS? LEVELIFT SYSTEMS, INC. offers honest, professional, no-pressure inspection, consultation & repair quotes for owner-occupied homes with settling, cracking & buckling basement walls. Our 23-year-old Jessup, Maryland-based firm has a spotless record with Angie’s List, Better Business Bureau and Maryland State Home Improvement Commission. Ask for Paul. Office: 301-3693400. Cell: 410-365-7346. Paulm@levelift.com. MHIC #45110. HANDYMAN MATTERS will help you stay safe in your own home. Professional, Reliable Skilled Craftsmen. Grab Bar Installation, Bathroom Modifications and your to-do list! 410-549-9696. MHIC # 89094.

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Personal Services ESTATE SPECIALIST Experts in estate clean-outs and preparing your house for sale. Trash removal, house cleanouts, light moving, demolition, yard work, cleaning. 410-7465090. Free estimates. Insured. Call 7 days 7am - 7pm. ARTISTIC SLIPCOVERS – UPHOLSTERY COMPANY. Steve Gulin. Your fabric or mine. 45 years experience. References available. 410-655-6696 – Cell: 410-207-7229.

Wanted VINYL RECORDS WANTED from 1950 through 1985. Jazz, Rock-n-Roll, Soul, Rhythm & Blues, Reggae and Disco. 33 1/3 LPs, 45s or 78s, Larger collections of at least 100 items wanted. Please call John, 301-5966201. CASH BUYER for old costume jewelry, pocket and wrist watches (any condition). Also buying watchmaker tools and parts, train sets and accessories, old toys, old glassware & coins. 410-655-0412. WE BUY OLD AND NEW COINS, Jewelry, Silver and Gold, Paper Money too. Watches, Clocks and Parts, Military Badges and Patches Old and New. Call Greg, 717-658-7954. FINE ANTIQUES, PAINTINGS AND QUALITY VINTAGE FURNISHINGS wanted by a serious capable buyer. I am very well educated [law degree] knowledgeable [over 40 years in the antique business] and have the finances and wherewithal to handle virtually any situation. If you have a special item, collection or important estate I would like to hear from you. I pay great prices for great things in all categories from oriental rugs to Tiffany objects, from rare clocks to firearms, from silver and gold to classic cars. If it is wonderful, I am interested. No phony promises or messy consignments. References gladly furnished. Please call Jake Lenihan, 301-279-8834. Thank you. OLD AND NEW WE BUY Sterling Silver Flatware, Tea Sets or Single Pieces., Furniture, Tools, Cameras, Good Glassware, Artwork Too. Toys From Trains to Hotwheels, Action Figures to Star Wars. Call Greg, 717-6587954. MILITARY ITEMS Collector seeks: helmets, weapons, knives, swords, bayonets, webgear, uniforms, inert ordnance, ETC. From 1875 to 1960, US, German, Britain, Japan, France, Russian. Please call Fred 301-9100783, Thank you. Also Lionel Trains.

SANFORD & SON HAULING Trash removal, house & estate clean-outs, garage clean-outs, yard work & cleanups, demolition, shed removal. 410-746-5090. Free Estimates. Insured. Call 7 days a week 7am - 7pm.

Thanks for reading!

BEACON BITS

Oct. 1

APPLY TO EXHIBIT YOUR WORK

The Howard County Arts Council is seeking works in varied disciplines for exhibits in the 2014-15 gallery season, with a deadline of Tuesday, Oct. 1 for receiving proposals. Both artists and curators are encouraged to apply. For more information, visit www.hocoarts.org or call (410) 313-2787.

Oct. 5

FUNDRAISER TO HELP DOMESTIC VIOLENCE CENTER

The Domestic Violence Center of Howard County will hold its seventh annual Hope Bowl fundraiser on Saturday, Oct. 5 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Brunswick Columbia Lanes, 7100 Carved Stone Ln., Columbia. Teams of five bowlers are suggested. For more information, visit www.dvcenter.org or call (410) 997-0304.

Sept. 23

IRON MAN AUTHOR EVENT

Author Brian Boyle will share his true story of finishing the Hawaii Iron Man race just three years after a near fatal car accident resulted in a lengthy medically-induced coma. He speaks on Monday, Sept. 23 at 7 p.m. at the Miller Branch Library, 9421 Frederick Rd., Ellicott City. The program on his book Iron Heart: the True Story of How I Came Back from the Dead is in partnership with the American Red Cross which has twice named Boyle as Spokesperson of the Year. For additional information, call the library at (410) 313-1950.

TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED Deadlines and Payments: Ad text and payment is due by the 5th of each month. Note: Only ads received and prepaid by the deadline will be included in the next month’s issue. Please type or print your ad carefully. Include a number where you can be reached in the event of a question. Payment is due with ad. We do not accept ads by phone or fax, nor do we accept credit cards. Private Party Text Ads: For individuals seeking to buy or sell particular items, or place a personal ad. Each ad is $10 for 25 words, 25 cents for each additional word. Business Text Ads: For parties engaged in an ongoing business enterprise. Each ad is $25 for 25 words, 50 cents for each additional word. Note: Each real estate listing counts as one business text ad.

Send your classified ad with check or money order, payable to the Beacon, to:

The Beacon, Howard County Classified Dept. P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915-2227 BEACON BITS

Ongoing

HELP OTHERS AVOID HOMELESSNESS Bridges for Housing Stability welcomes volunteers to work with

staff to help county residents avoid homelessness through a variety of projects and tasks, from clerical work to moving furniture. For more information, call (410) 3125760, ext. 102 or email Pam DeCiccio at www.bridges2hs.org.

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❐ ONE YEAR First-Class rate (Maryland residents add 6% for sales tax = $38.16) ❐ ONE YEAR Third-Class rate (Maryland residents add 6% for sales tax = $12.72 in MD) ❐ Check here if this is a gift subscription. A gift card will be sent in your name: _________________ Return form with check made payable to The Beacon, to: The Beacon, P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915-2227 Maryland residents: add 6% for sales tax.

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BROOKE GROVE RETIREMENT VILLAGE CORDIALLY INVITES YOU TO AT TEND AN

ANTIQUES & COLLECTIBLES

ROAD SHOW Tuesday, october 15, 2013 10 a.m. - noon Sharon Courtyard of Brooke Grove Rehabilitation and Nursing Center 3LADE 3CHOOL 2OAD s 3ANDY 3PRING -$

Have you ever wondered how much your favorite heirloom is worth? Is it trash or treasure? Find out at the Antiques and Collectibles Road Show! Experts from Peenstra Antiques Appraisals and NovaGold, LLC, will provide free appraisals, consultations and advice on anything you might own, including furniture, glass, porcelain, paintings, toys, documents, jewelry, silver, stamps, coins, books and more. Each guest may bring one item to the Antiques and Collectibles Road Show. The first 30 people to RSVP will become part of the show and enjoy their appraisal in front of the audience. Private evaluations will be provided for remaining guests after the showâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s conclusion. You are also welcome to attend simply as a spectator.

Campus tours available upon request. &OR MORE INFORMATION OR TO 2360 CONTACT 4ONI $AVIS AT OR TDAVIS BGF ORG BY &RIDAY /CTOBER