May 2012 Howard County Beacon Edition by The Beacon Newspapers

The Howard County

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Not retired, rewired for service By Robert Friedman “From early in my life, the family motto has been, to quote my mother, ‘Se servicial — Be of service’,” said Felicia (Feli) SoláCarter. So after a career in the Social Security Administration (SSA), Solá-Carter is spending her so-called retirement years training federal employees to excel in their jobs, advocating for Howard County’s growing number of Hispanic students, and trying to improve access to healthcare for county residents. “I’m not retired, just rewired,” said the Puerto Rico-born resident of Columbia, Md. Solá-Carter, now 61, began working at the SSA in 1971, right after graduating from college. She rose to the position of assistant deputy commissioner for human resources at the federal agency. She retired from that position three years ago, and sees her work career as having been part of “the honorable profession of the federal civil service.” Since then, her retirement has allowed her to take on several challenges closer to her heart.

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

Eclectic Montreal possesses international flair; plus, risk of blood clots from long flights is generally low page 23

Empathy for fellow Hispanics Her principal civic interest now is how Hispanic students are (or aren’t) progressing in Howard County’s public schools. She has channeled that concern into the position of president of Conexiones (Connections) — an organization that works to keep Hispanic children in area schools and helps them to go on to higher achievements in education and in life. Solá-Carter took up the volunteer post, she said, “because I was a Latino student who had the good fortune to be born into a family that could afford an excellent education for me, from which I’ve benefitted immensely.” She decided to permanently move from her Puerto Rico homeland after graduating from the College of Mount Saint Vincent in Riverdale, N.Y. Since Puerto Ricans, unlike other Latinos born outside the U.S., are American citizens, she needed no papers and faced no bureaucratic problems in making the move. “I was able to get a good job [at the Social Security Administration], and I enjoyed the life in New York,” she said. She married Maryland native Bruce W. Carter, and they are the parents of two

Felicia Solá-Carter (left) is president of Conexiones, a nonprofit organization that advocates for Hispanic students in Howard County Schools. Solá-Carter, shown with students at Howard High School in Ellicott City, also volunteers with a number of other organizations, including the Partnership for Public Service, and serves on the board of the Horizon Foundation.

grown sons, both graduates of Howard County schools. She acknowledged that coming from the U.S. Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, where she attended private Catholic schools, gave her certain advantages that other newly arrived Hispanics might not have had. A strong empathy for her Latino brothers and sisters impelled her to help those less fortunate. “I know the [Hispanic] culture and family values, and I know the language, and I see the potential of the kids and the difference that I could make,” said Solá-Carte, a native of Caguas, a mountain town south of San Juan. Conexiones was founded in 2000, when Hispanic students were “the invisible kids”

of the Howard County education system, she said. Their school drop-out rate was higher than for any other group, “and no one was paying any attention to them.” Then along came lifetime educator Murray Simon, who spent 14 years as an advisor to education ministries in five Latin American countries. After taking up residence in Howard County, Simon saw the dropout problem among Latinos here and co-founded Conexiones with the Rev. Walter Rodriguez. In 2003, the organization became an educational partner of the local school system. Simon retired as Conexiones president in 2007 and Solá-Carter took over the volunteer post. See SOLÁ-CARTER, page 29

ARTS & STYLE

The new Maryland Senior Idol, singer MaryAnn Evangelista, hails from Howard County page 26

FITNESS & HEALTH 4 k Does your doctor tell the truth? k Flu vaccine may last a lifetime THE SENIOR CONNECTION 15 k Special 4-page section from Howard County Office on Aging LAW & MONEY 19 k How to get high returns at low risk k Cheap stocks with potential PLUS CROSSWORD, BEACON BITS, CLASSIFIEDS & MORE

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

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No patience for politics It’s been a few years since I attended the She could have chosen to address some national convention of the American Socie- of the most pressing financial, health or soty on Aging, one of the major cial needs of older Americans associations for professionals today. She could have talked of all types who work in the about the effects the retirefield of aging. ment of the baby boom genThis year’s event took eration will be having on our place in this area, so I went to society and the challenges the opening session to hear that presents. She could have the featured speakers. The talked about how our political hotel ballroom was set up for process impedes realistic so3,000 convention attendees, lutions to practical problems, with huge screens through- FROM THE such as how to adjust Social out the cavernous room for PUBLISHER Security and Medicare to reeasy visibility of the person at By Stuart P. Rosenthal store them to a solid financial the dais. footing well into the future. The keynote address was to be from So imagine my feelings when, instead, House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D- she gave a harsh, ten-minute tirade against Calif.). Sadly, she was called away for a the previous day’s congressional vote on family funeral, and was unable to attend. the budget, denied there was any legitiBut she filmed some brief remarks for the mate concern for the future of Social Secuevent that were aired on the screens. rity and Medicare and ruled out any Given the opportunity to address thou- changes to those programs, and delivered sands of the most active and influential ac- a partisan defense of healthcare reform, ademics, social workers, community lead- claiming it was 100 percent beneficial to ers and aging professionals in the country, seniors. Pelosi could have taken several possible It was a purely political speech, blaming tacks, I thought. Republicans for every problem facing sen-

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The Beacon is a monthly newspaper dedicated to inform, serve, and entertain the citizens of Howard County, and is privately owned. Other editions serve Greater Baltimore and Greater Washington. 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 • Graphic Designer ..............................Kyle Gregory

iors today, and casting President Obama, herself and the Democratic party as the only bulwarks protecting seniors and their “true” advocates from the predatory Republicans who have it in for older adults and are out to destroy Social Security and Medicare for purely political reasons in her view. She concluded by asking us to support only Democrats in this fall’s election. Then she wished us a productive convention and signed off. A few minutes later, after a more substantive, policy-focused talk from the Assistant Secretary for Aging, a live member of Congress took the stage for another “welcoming” address. Representative Allyson Schwartz (D-Pa.), who had missed the Pelosi presentation, proceeded to say pretty much the same thing in pretty much the same way. She railed against the Republican-sponsored budget, defended healthcare reform, portrayed Republicans as enemies of seniors and asked us all to vote Democratic, all without addressing a single substantive issue in a serious way. Now, I understand why convention organizers, especially for conferences taking place in Washington, DC, like to invite administration members and important and/or local members of Congress to speak. It ostensibly pleases the crowd and shows the importance of the organization, and it can provide an opportunity to hear

important or relevant pronouncements on occasion. But I was highly distressed to think this was the best these politicians and their staffs could come up with. Did they really think a national gathering of this prominence was the appropriate occasion for purely political spiels? Did they think we don’t understand that such simplistic arguments basically obfuscate real problems and make us feel they don’t take us seriously as thoughtful voters? Do they not understand that such rants make them look as ignorant and one-sided and venal as they paint the “other side” to be? The vast majority of American voters have a low opinion of Congress. Disapproval ratings now exceed 80 percent in a number of different national polls. We see its bickering and partisanship as the main reason for its failure to solve otherwise solvable issues. You might think that members of Congress who wanted to improve their standing with voters would take an opportunity like this to show their statesmanship and integrity by stepping away from partisanship and proposing solutions, rather than wading neck-deep into the muck.

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. BEACON BITS

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WHAT LOCAL SCHOOLS CAN DO FOR YOU

The Howard County Public School System offers a free e-newsletter for seniors, “Golden Opportunities,” listing volunteer opportunities, performance schedules and system-wide news. To receive the newsletter, sign on at www.hcpss.org/golden.

May 8

VOLUNTEER FOR RELAY FOR LIFE

The Relay for Life of Western Howard County is inviting the community to a team meeting to plan the June 8 overnight non-competitive walk-a-thon, including team fund-raising and opportunities to help plan and run activities. The planning meeting will be held on Tuesday, May 8 at 7 p.m. at the Glenwood Community Center, 2400 Route 97, Cooksville. For further information, visit www.relayforlife.org/westernhoward or email whcrelay@aol.com, or call the Relay Committee at (410) 781-4316.

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FREE CAREER COUNSELING

Pinnacle Career Resources is offering free career advancement counseling and computer training for low- to moderate-income residents of Howard County at its offices on Mondays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. or at other times by appointment. The firm is located in Suite 301, Chartwell Professional Park, 8180 Lark Brown Rd., Elkridge. For more information, call (410) 799-1097.

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

Health Fitness &

EAT WHEY TO WEIGH LESS Consuming whey protein can help curb appetites and shrink waistlines A LIFETIME FLU VACCINE? One-time flu shots that provide a lifetime of protection are under study STAYING STRONG AFTER CANCER Breast cancer survivors can sign up for free strength training classes YOGA FOR FIBROMYALGIA Twice-weekly yoga can reduce pain from fibromyalgia, as can meditation

Implanted device dispenses daily drugs By Lauran Neergaard Medication via remote-control instead of a shot? Scientists implanted microchips in seven women that did just that, oozing out the right dose of a bone-strengthening drug once a day without them even noticing. Implanted medicine is a hot field, aiming to help patients better stick to their medications and to deliver those drugs straight to the body part that needs them. But the recent study is believed to be the first attempt at using a wirelessly controlled drug chip in people. If this earlystage testing eventually pans out, the idea is that doctors one day might program dose changes from afar with the push of a button, or time them for when the patient is sleeping to minimize side effects.

Could help many conditions The implant initially is being studied to treat severe bone-thinning osteoporosis. But it could be filled with other types of medication, said co-inventor Robert Langer of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. “It’s like `Star Trek,’” said Langer, refer-

ring to the science fiction television series. He co-authored the study appearing in the journal Science Translational Medicine. “Just send a signal over a special radio wave, and out comes the drug.” Today’s medication implants continuously emit their drugs until they run dry. One example is a dime-sized wafer that oozes chemotherapy directly onto the site of a surgically removed brain tumor, targeting any remaining cancer cells. Another is a contraceptive rod that is implanted in the arm and releases hormones to prevent pregnancy. A next step would be more sophisticated implants that release one dose at a time, programmable to skip or add a dose as needed, said biomedical engineer Ellis Meng of the University of Southern California. Meng was not involved with the MIT study but also is developing this kind of technology, and called the report “an important milestone.” Women with severe osteoporosis sometimes are prescribed daily injections of the bone-building drug teriparatide, known by

the brand Forteo. But many quit taking it because of the hassle of the shots.

How it works In the study, the microchip held doses of Forteo inside tiny wells that are sealed shut with a nano-thin layer of gold. Sending a wireless signal causes the gold on an individual well to dissolve, allowing that dose to diffuse into the bloodstream, Langer explained. In a doctor’s-office procedure in Denmark, the microchip was implanted just below the waistline into eight women with osteoporosis. Testing found one microchip wasn’t responding to the signals. The other seven women had their implants programmed to automatically emit a once-aday dose beginning eight weeks later. The chips could have begun working right away, said Robert Farra, chief executive of MicroCHIPS Inc., a Massachusetts company that has licensed the device and funded the study. But animal research showed a scar tissue-like membrane forms around the pacemaker-sized implant. So he waited until

that blockage formed to signal the first of 20 once-a-day doses to begin, to see if the drug could get through. Blood testing showed the implant delivered the drug as effectively as the women’s usual daily injections, and the device appeared to be safe, the researchers reported. It will take large-scale studies to prove the implant works as well as the long-used shots, cautioned osteoporosis specialist Dr. Ethel Siris of New York-Presbyterian Hospital/Columbia University. “They’re a long way from proving that this mode of administration is going to work,” she said. But it’s an intriguing idea because “it’s daunting to have to take a daily shot.” Farra said his company hopes to begin a larger-scale test, using a chip that can hold 365 doses, in 2014. While doses of this osteoporosis medicine typically are not adjusted, he said, the eventual goal is for patients to carry a cell phone-sized device that would provide wireless feedback to the doctor who programs their implants. — AP

Doctors aren’t always truthful. Is that OK? By Lauran Neergaard Trust your doctor? A survey finds that some doctors aren’t always completely honest with their patients. More than half admitted describing someone’s prognosis in a way they knew was too rosy. Nearly 20 percent said they hadn’t fully disclosed a medical mistake for fear of being sued. And 1 in 10 of those surveyed said they’d told a patient something that wasn’t true in the past year. The survey, by Massachusetts researchers and published in Health Affairs, doesn’t explain why, or what wasn’t true. “I don’t think that physicians set out to be dishonest,” said lead researcher Dr. Lisa Iezzoni, a Harvard Medical School professor and director of Massachusetts General Hospital’s Mongan Institute for Health Policy. She said the untruths could have been to give people hope.

Communicate with your doctor But it takes open communication for patients to make fully informed decisions

about their healthcare, as opposed to the “doctor-knows-best” paternalism of medicine’s past, Iezzoni added. The survey offers “a reason for patients to be vigilant and to be very clear with their physician about how much they do want to know,” she said. The findings come from a 2009 survey of more than 1,800 physicians nationwide to see if they agree with and follow certain standards medical professionalism issued in 2002. Among the voluntary standards are that doctors should be open and honest about all aspects of patient care, and promptly disclose any mistakes. A third of those surveyed didn’t completely agree that doctors should ‘fess up about mistakes. That’s even though a growing number of medical centers are adopting policies that tell doctors to say “I’m sorry” up front, in part because studies have found patients less likely to sue when that happens. Not revealing a mistake is “just inexcusable,” said Dr. Arthur Caplan, a prominent

medical ethicist at the University of Pennsylvania. Beyond decency, “your care now has to be different because of what happened.” The vast majority of those surveyed agreed that physicians should fully inform patients of the risks, not just the benefits, of treatment options and never tell a patient something that isn’t true — even though some admitted they hadn’t followed that advice, at least on rare occasions, in the past year.

What about hearing bad news? Perhaps least surprising is that doctors give overly positive prognoses. It’s hard to deliver bad news, especially when a patient has run out of options, and until recently doctors have had little training in how to do so. But Iezzoni said patients with the worst outlook especially deserve to know, so they can get their affairs in order. Patient studies have found most patients want to know. What else might doctors not tell? There are shades of gray, said Caplan, the ethicist. For example, he’s heard doctors ago-

nize over what to tell parents about a very premature baby’s chances, knowing the odds are really bad but also knowing they’ve seen miracles. Doctors prescribe placebos sometimes, and telling the patient that fact could negate chances of the fake treatment helping, he noted. Sometimes they exaggerate a health finding to shock the patient into shaping up. And sometimes it’s a matter of dribbling out a hard truth to give patients a chance to adjust, Caplan said. For example, one might say, “OK, this looks serious but we’re going to order some more tests,” when the doctor already knows just how grim things are. Withholding the full story is getting harder, though, Iezzoni said. Not only do more patients Google their conditions so they know what to ask, but some doctors who have embraced electronic medical records allow patients to log in and check their own test results. — AP

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Five foods that may help you sleep better

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May 10

twice a day, they experienced some relief in the severity of their insomnia. 4. Yogurt. Dairy products like yogurt and milk boast healthy doses of calcium, and there’s research that suggests being calcium-deficient may make it difficult to fall asleep. Other calcium-rich foods to try: leafy green vegetables like kale and collards. 5. Whole grains. Bulgur, barley and other whole grains are rich in magnesium,

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While the authors aren’t sure how it happened, they speculated that the greater amounts of insulin triggered by the highGI meals increased the ratio of sleep-inducing tryptophan relative to other amino acids in the blood, allowing proportionately more to get into the brain. 3. Tart cherry juice. In a small study, melatonin-rich tart cherry juice was shown to aid sleep. When adults with chronic insomnia drank a cup of tart cherry juice

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sleep: 1. Fish. Most fish, especially salmon, halibut and tuna, boast vitamin B6, which is needed to make melatonin (a sleep-inducing hormone triggered by darkness), according to an article published in the Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences. Other B6-rich foods include chickpeas, bananas and fortified cereals. 2. Jasmine rice. When healthy sleepers ate carbohydrate-rich suppers of veggies and tomato sauce over rice, they fell asleep significantly faster at bedtime if the meal included high-glycemic-index (GI) jasmine rice rather than lower-GI long-grain rice, in a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.

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By Brierley Wright Some people have trouble falling asleep. Others can’t stay asleep. And then there are the people who have trouble turning life “off” and tucking into bed at a reasonable hour. Whatever the reason, more than 50 million Americans don’t get enough shut-eye. Yet the health benefits of a good night’s rest are legion. Sleep helps keep you happy, your brain sharp, your immune system strong, your waistline trim, your skin looking youthful, and lowers your risk of high blood pressure and heart disease. Here’s the good news: Adding certain foods to your diet may help increase your odds of successful slumber, as reported in EatingWell Magazine. Here are some things you can eat for a better night’s

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

Eating more whey helps you weigh less By Rose Pastore Little Miss Muffet sat on her tuffet eating her curds and ... losing weight while feeling perfectly full. Who needs rhyme when the latest research suggests that Miss Muffet had it very right in getting her whey? The watery byproduct of cheesemaking, whey is what’s left after milk has been curdled — a protein-rich liquid increasingly eyed for its ability to curb appetite. Whey is available in dried form as a nu-

tritional supplement, but it exists naturally in foods, too. It is, for example, the source of ricotta cheese. Although whey has a long history as a drink in its own right, and was championed by Hippocrates, exploration of its potential as a natural appetite suppressant, body reshaper and metabolic protector is just getting under way.

Protein cuts appetites Bottled water enriched with whey pro-

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tein may be the drink of the future — a painless means of weight control. New Zealand researchers found that even small amounts of whey dissolved in water and consumed two hours before lunch reduced hunger in overweight women. All 46 participants reported feeling more full and satisfied than after consuming a whey-free control drink. The greater the concentration of whey, the stronger and longer the effect. Although none of the women ate less lunch two hours later, higher whey doses may thwart dessert consumption. Whey has staying power in maintaining healthy body weight. The high-protein substance not only minimizes weight gain and body fat accumulation over the long haul, but it also decreases food intake and ups the oxidation of fats. Rich in the amino acid leucine, whey may alter brain synthesis of neuropeptides that regulate food intake. Rats fed a diet high in whey protein consumed significantly less chow than rats gobbling soy protein. But it took five weeks for the effect to show up, and the rats’ diet was one-third whey. Even dedicated dieters might not be able to manage that.

Lose weight; shrink your waist Adding whey protein to your diet can shrink your waist and may even help regulate body weight without the need for dieting. Twice a day for six months, 90 overweight men and women drank beverages mixed with either whey protein, soy protein or carbohydrates while eating as usual. After 23 weeks, scientists reported in the Journal of Nutrition, both whey and soy drinkers weighed less than the carb

drinkers, but the whey group also had smaller waists. The findings suggest that in curbing accumulation of belly fat, whey may subdue the metabolic complications of obesity. Whey protein supplements appear to spare those who are overweight from the negative metabolic consequence of a highfat diet. University of Cincinnati researchers fed female mice a high-fat diet and either plain water or whey-enriched water. Both groups downed the same amount of food, but after 11 weeks the whey takers weighed less and had more lean body mass. Moreover, they handled a glucose load better and showed better insulin sensitivity, and their livers accumulated less fat. For those who can’t resist the French fries, whey protein may help stave off Type 2 diabetes and fatty liver disease. There’s increasing evidence that the microorganisms known as probiotics do good things for the gut (and the brain and the rest of the body), but they have to get there alive first. That means surviving the harsh, acidic killing field otherwise known as the stomach. Whey protein may turn out to be the perfect armored vehicle for the job. Irish researchers find that microbeads of whey filled with the probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus can withstand the hostile environment of the stomach and arrive intact at the intestines, where they dutifully break down and release their payload. — Psychology Today © 2012 Sussex Publishers, Inc. All rights reserved. Distributed by Tribune Media Services, Inc

BEACON BITS

Apr. 26

OLDER DRIVER IMPROVEMENT COURSE

An AARP-sponsored class for older drivers will be held on Thursday, April 26 at the Howard County General Hospital Wellness Pavilion, Suite 100, 10710 Charter Dr., Columbia. The fee is $12 for AARP members and $14 for non-members. Payment is by check only. Participants are asked to bring their AARP card, driver’s license and payment to the class. For further information, call (410) 740-7601.

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

Universal, lifetime flu vaccine on the way By Jason Koebler Annual flu shots might soon become a thing of the past — and threats such as avian and swine flu might disappear with them — as a vaccine touted as the “holy grail” of flu treatment could be ready for human trials next year. That’s earlier than the National Institutes of Health estimated in 2010, when they said a universal vaccine could be five years off. By targeting the parts of the virus that rarely mutate, researchers believe they can develop a vaccine similar to the mumps or measles shot. People would be vaccinated as children and then receive boosters later.

A new approach to immunity That differs from the current ‘60s-era technology, according to Joseph Kim, head of Inovio Pharmaceuticals, which is working on the universal vaccine. Each year, the seasonal flu vaccine targets three or four strains that researchers believe will be the most common that year. Previous seasons’ vaccines have no effect on future strains of the virus, because it mutates quickly. The seasonal vaccine also offers no protection against outbreaks such as 2009’s H1N1 swine flu. In contrast, a universal vaccine would offer protection against all forms of the virus. “It’s like putting up a tent over your immune system that protects against rapidly mutating viruses,” Kim said. At least two other companies are working on a similar vaccine. In late 2010, Inovio earned a $3.1 million grant from the National Institutes of Health to work on the vaccine. “It’s a completely different paradigm than how [vaccines] are made seasonably every year,” Kim said.

ising. Flu strains fall into different “buckets,” he said. All H1N1 strains share similar characteristics, as do all H5N1 strains — including the Asian bird flu strain that has killed more than 60 percent of the 500 or so people it has infected over the past decade. Kim said Inovio has already made and completed successful human tests for vaccines that protect against all H1N1 and H5N1 flu strains. In late 2011, two research groups created a strain of H5N1 bird flu that could be passed from human to human, leading the World Health Organization to issue a statement that said they were “deeply concerned about the potential negative consequences” that publishing their research could cause. Some news outlets have called the new strain “engineered doomsday” and wondered whether terrorist organizations

could create and distribute a similar virus. Kim said not to worry. “I am very certain our vaccine can already neutralize that newly made virus,” he said. “We’re trying to get our hands on it.” Inovio is working on vaccines that will protect against other strains, such as H3N2, which is seen in a newly-emerged swine flu virus. Those vaccines will be combined with the already-developed H1N1 and H5N1 vaccines to be delivered

in one shot by the 2013 flu season. Researchers are taking a similar approach to HIV vaccine development, but working on the flu might be easier. “Unlike other diseases, we have 50 plus years of diagnostics on the flu,” Kim said. “There are lots of toolkits that let us know if our approach will work or not. ... Our goal is to have a vaccine strategy that can protect us from all mutations.” © 2012 U.S. News and World Report

BEACON BITS

May 10

CREATING A DIET TO THWART ARTHRITIS

In honor of Arthritis Awareness Month, nutritionist Rona Matiyan will suggest seven foods to ease aching joints and help lose weight, along with three foods to avoid, in a free program on Thursday, May 10 from 10:30 to 11 a.m. at the Bain Center, 5470 Ruth Keaton Way, Columbia. For further information, call (410) 313-7213.

Bird and swine flu protection Kim said early research has been prom-

BEACON BITS

May 8

FREE VASCULAR SCREENING

The Maryland Vascular Center at Baltimore Washington Medical Center (is offering free screenings for people 50 or older who are smokers or have a risk factor such as hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol or a family history of vascular disease. The screening will be held on Tuesday, May 8 from 10

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Health Studies Page

M AY 2 0 1 2 — 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

Strength training for breast cancer survivors By Carol Sorgen Years following breast cancer diagnosis, breast cancer survivors may struggle with a variety of problems, including insomnia, fatigue, depression and anxiety. Breast cancer survivors also appear to have greater amounts of weight gain, weakness and functional limitations than women

without a history of cancer. Researchers have found that adding strength training to a treatment plan may aid recovery and promote long-term health. The University of Maryland/Baltimore VA Medical Center is now conducting a study find out how exercise helps. According to principal investigator

Monica Serra, strength training in breast cancer survivors appears to be well tolerated and may improve many quality of liferelated symptoms, as well as muscle mass, strength, cardiovascular fitness, balance and physical function, in addition to preventing bone mineral density loss.

Lymphedema concerns

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• Health evaluation • Balance, step, strength, and/or ﬂexibility exercises • Compensation for your time If interested call: 410-605-7179 & Mention code: LIFT at 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 each per visit

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In the past, the recommendation to perform strength training was not encouraged in cancer survivors prone to lymphedema (swelling that generally occurs in an arm or leg) — a condition that may affect as many as 70 percent of women who have had breast cancer surgery, Serra said. However, new research suggests that strength training may actually reduce symptoms and the number of exacerbations associated with lymphedema. In addition to 150 minutes a week of moderate cardiovascular training (which may include walking, biking or swimming), general strength training is recommended two or three days a week. This should include performing at least one set of eight to 10 different exercises that target the major muscle groups. Such exer-

cises might include a bicep curl or leg raise. Each set should include eight to 12 repetitions of the exercise to the point where you cannot lift the weight one more time while maintaining proper lifting technique. Breast cancer survivors should begin a strength training program slowly and advance the program gradually, according to Serra. If prone to lymphedema, they should wear a compression sleeve and glove. Additionally, before beginning a strength training program, it is recommended that cancer survivors consult with a healthcare professional, who may be able to recommend an exercise program that will cater to their specific health needs and concerns. They should also have a certified fitness professional teach them proper exercise technique.

Taking part in the study The study is now recruiting 40 postmenopausal women between the ages of 45 and 80 who finished cancer treatment at least three months ago to participate in a research study on the benefits and guidelines for strength training in breast cancer survivors. See STRENGTH TRAINING, page 10

PREVENTABLE TREATABLE BEATABLE

You Can Beat Colon Cancer. But Only If You Know You Have It. We are currently seeking volunteers for a clinical research study to evaluate a colon cancer screening test. You may qualify if you are: ■ 65-84 years old and never had a colonoscopy or ■ 65-84 years old and more than 9 years since your last colonoscopy You will be compensated $100 for your participation in this study. Thank you for considering this volunteer opportunity.

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

Digestive Health Corner Sponsored by Capital Digestive Care

Chronic Digestive Distress? A New Test May Have Answers For You Gastrointestinal symptoms such as and the contents within it. A number of nausea, bloating, heartburn and con- symptoms may develop if food moves stipation are among the either too quickly or too most common complaints slowly through the GI I hear during consultatract, including, nausea, tions with patients. Typibloating, heartburn, constically, traditional methods pation and an early feeling such as lifestyle and diof fullness when eating. etary modification and Until recently, motility medication if necessary, disorders have been diffirelieve these symptoms. cult to evaluate. Because Occasionally, problems motility can be affected at persist for some patients. By Christopher E. Shih, several points throughout MD, FACG If you fall in to this categothe GI tract (often the ry, you may benefit from stomach, small intestine further evaluation to determine if a and/or colon) more than one test was motility disorder is present. required to evaluate the function, or Motility disorders are conditions “transit time,” of these systems. Tranthat affect the movement of the GI tract sit time is the amount of time it takes

Trouble Sleeping?

Volunteer for a Sleep & Sensory Tes ng Study Researchers at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine are looking for volunteers to par!cipate in a research study examining the associa!on between sleep and sensory abili!es.

to move contents through a specific portion of the digestive tract. Fortunately, new technology is available, allowing us to capture specific information throughout the entire GI tract in one examination. Known as the SmartPill, it is a single-use, ingestible capsule that utilizes sensor technology to measure pressure, pH and temperature throughout the entire GI tract. As the SmartPill capsule travels through your GI tract, it collects data and sends it to a wireless data receiver, worn on a belt or lanyard. The test is relatively simple, painless and non-invasive. When you arrive at your physician’s office you will be required to eat a small meal bar, called the SmartBar. After the meal you will ingest the capsule with a small amount of water. The procedure will take approximately 15-20 minutes. After ingestion you can return to your normal routine, wearing the data receiver for three to five days. You will be required during that time to document when you eat and when you have bowel movements. When the test is complete you will return the data receiver to your physician’s office. The data is then down-

loaded to a computer, providing your physician with GI transit information to evaluate your stomach, small intestine and colon. This information is especially valuable in helping your doctor understand the cause of your symptoms. Once identified, treatment can be targeted to your specific needs. For more information about digestive health conditions and procedures, including SmartPill, visit our website at www.capitaldigestivecare.com or request a free information kit at info@capitaldigestivecare.com. Capital Digestive Care has 16 offices conveniently located throughout the Washington Metropolitan Area, including Montgomery, Howard, Prince George’s and Frederick counties. Christopher E. Shih, MD, FACG, is a board-certified physician specializing in Gastroenterology. An active member of the medical community, he is a Fellow of the American College of Gastroenterology and a member of the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America. Dr. Shih values not only a rigorous academic approach to treating disease but also a caring and compassionate method of patient interaction - a disposition which has earned him top ratings with his patients.

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Health Shorts Yoga reduces fibromyalgia pain Fibromyalgia is as elusive as diseases come. Characterized by constant bodywide pain with no identifiable cause, its existence is still held in contention by doctors. But for the 12 million mostly female Americans to whom the pain is very real, yoga therapy may bring relief. Two months of twice-weekly yoga sessions reduced pain in women with fibromyalgia, according to new research from York University in Toronto, Canada. Participants reported less pain and helplessness at the end of the study, as well as a boost in cortisol levels. In healthy individuals, cortisol levels fluctuate regularly, but in fibromyalgia patients, symptoms are associated with consistently low levels, reflecting dysregulation of the body’s stress-management center. Without a regulated amount of cortisol, the body cannot adequately respond to or recover from stress. “For fibromyalgia sufferers, it’s actually positive when the body begins producing more cortisol,” said researcher Kathryn Curtis. Patients also came away from the intervention with greater mindfulness, which research shows is helpful in regulating the body’s natural stress response. The benefit is likely a result of Hatha

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

yoga’s emphasis on breathing, meditation and inner reflection. Mindfulness, Curtis notes, may also prevent patients from focusing on their own pain, and in doing so, keep them from amplifying it. Here are a few ways to increase your mindfulness: Meditation: For five minutes, concentrate on the sensation of your breath traveling in and out of your lungs. Gently refocus when your mind wanders. “Meditation allows you to calmly experience your pain and your reactions to it — something we normally try to avoid,” Curtis said. Physical activity: Exercise takes your mind off anxieties and improves mood. Fibromyalgia patients should start slowly to avoid pain flare-ups. Conscious eating: For one meal, focus entirely on the experience of eating. Notice the appearance, texture, smell and taste of the food. It’s easiest to eat mindfully, Curtis said, if you block out time and pick a quiet environment. — Psychology Today

Over 65? Get a whooping cough shot A federal advisory panel wants all U.S. adults to get vaccinated against whooping cough. The panel voted to expand its recommendation to include all those 65 and older who haven’t gotten a whooping cough shot

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as an adult. Children have been vaccinated against whooping cough since the 1940s, but a vaccine for adolescents and adults was not licensed until 2005. Since then, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices has gradually added groups of adults to its recommendations, including 2010 advice that it be given to older adults who spend a lot of time around infants. The recommendation means now all adults should get at least one dose. “They’ve been moving up to this in baby steps,” said Dr. William Schaffner, a Vanderbilt University vaccines expert. Whooping cough, or pertussis, is a highly contagious bacterial disease that in rare cases can be fatal. It leads to severe coughing that causes children to make a distinctive whooping sound as they gasp for breath. Recommendations from the panel are usually adopted by the government, which sends the guidance out to doctors. Contributing to the push to vaccinate more adults was a California whooping cough epidemic in 2010 that infected 9,000. Ten babies died after exposure to infected adults or older children. There’s little data on how many people

Strength training From page 8 Participants will go through two screening visits to determine eligibility, and then four visits for baseline testing. After this, they will strength train at the VA Medical Center three times a week for four months before repeating the same four tests they did as baseline testing. There is no financial compensation paid for participating in this study. How-

65 and over have gotten the vaccine. Only about 8 percent of adults under 65 have been vaccinated, but about 70 percent of adolescents have. Health officials believe whooping cough is underreported in older adults, perhaps because in older people the illness can be hard to distinguish from other coughing ailments. A goal of the recommendation is to prevent teens and adults from spreading the disease to infants, although there’s not good evidence this “herd immunity” approach has worked so far. Vaccination for children is included in a series of shots, beginning at 2 months. The adult vaccine combines protection against tetanus, diphtheria and whooping cough. One version of the vaccine, made by GlaxoSmithKline, was licensed for use in older adults last year. The committee said another version, made by Sanofi Pasteur, can also be given. Both cost about $35 a dose. The shot is as safe as a regular tetanus booster. Estimates range widely for how effective the vaccine is at preventing whooping cough in older adults, or how much its protection wanes years afterward. — AP

ever, parking and use of the exercise facility are free, and participants will receive a complete medical evaluation — including physical fitness, body composition, glucose tolerance and cardiovascular health, in addition to an exercise trainer for the study duration. For more information or to volunteer, call the University of Maryland/Baltimore VA Medical Center at (410) 605-7179 and refer to the breast cancer study. The center is located at 10 N. Greene St. in downtown Baltimore.

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

When family members could use therapy Dear Solutions: needs help to accept that she can’t fix My very close cousin had some bad things. She can only be supportive. losses recently. First, his wife Perhaps she can help her died last year. Then he lost daughter get professional most of his money with a bad help. She should also get (or foolish) investment in some counseling for herself. someone’s business that That would let both her and failed. you off the hook. Now I’m very upset beDear Solutions: cause he’s not paying any atMy brother, a fairly young tention to taking care of widower, finally remarried. what’s left. He just goes over The woman he married is and over what he had in the ver y open and talkative past and good things that SOLUTIONS about everything — her famBy Helen Oxenberg, happened then. ily, her children, old probWhen I say he has to MSW, ACSW lems and new ones. plan for the future, he just We’re not used to this in turns away and says, “Give me one my family. Now my brother is becomgood reason to pay attention to the fu- ing more and more like this new wife. ture.” I’m worried. When she starts talking about prob— Hilda lems in her family, he starts to reveal Dear Hilda: Tell him the one good reason he should pay attention to the future is because that’s where he’s going to live for the rest of his life! Obviously, the losses he’s had are very painful, and any thought of the future is fearful. So he retreats into the past, a time when things were joyful. If you and other family members could rally round him and show your understanding and support, that might help him move forward and be less fearful. Meanwhile, he sounds depressed and in need of therapy. If he’s a senior, Medicare will help pay for this. Explain to him that if he sees a therapist, he/she will let him talk about his past life and then hopefully help him to move on. Dear Solutions: My sister has five children. Four of them are doing very well — doctors, successful business people, good marriages, etc. One, the middle daughter, is struggling along. As my sister says, “Nothing ever works out right for her.” And that’s all my sister concentrates on now. She keeps talking about it, and is depressed and gloomy all the time. She doesn’t know what to do about it, and I don’t know what to do about her. I keep telling her to feel good about how well her other children are doing, but she doesn’t seem to get any joy out of that. I’m afraid she’ll make herself sick. What do you think? — Ellie Dear Ellie: I think that a mother is only as happy as her unhappiest child. The first thing you can do is express your understanding of that, because that’s where she’s at. She doesn’t worry about her other children because she doesn’t think she has to do anything for them. But she does feel the need to fix things for this one, and that’s the problem. She’s feeling powerless. Unless there’s some practical way she can change things for this daughter, she

things in our family that have not been talked about for years, and it makes me very uncomfortable. It’s true that we have a few skeletons in the closet, but I want to hold on to my privacy. How can I stop him? — Thelma Dear Thelma: Lately skeletons are getting very restless cooped up in a closet, so you’d better face the fact that they may come out at any moment. You could tell your brother how you feel and ask him to please be a little more tactful. Also, if you stop calling his wife “this

new wife” and start thinking of her as your sister-in-law, you might become friendly enough to laugh with her and your brother at her old skeletons and yours. After all, if they’re skeletons, there’s no meat on them any more anyway, which means the problems they represent are long gone. Anyway, once they’re “outed,” they may surprise you and disappear. © Helen Oxenberg, 2012. Questions to be considered for this column may be sent to: The Beacon, P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915. You may also email the author at helox72@comcast.net. To inquire about reprint rights, call (609) 655-3684.

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Attend our Ve teran’ s Administration Benefits S emina r on May 22nd

M AY 2 0 1 2 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

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Expo & Conference May 3-5, 2012 Gaylord National Hotel and Conference Center National Harbor, Maryland

Expo - A Showcase of 100+ Exhibitors Conference - Professional & Consumer Training Opportunities Job Fair Ronald D. Paul Kidney Walk Entertainment Live Cooking & Fitness Demonstrations Raffles Educational Sessions on Medicare Issues How to Avoid Being a Victim How to Access Program Information, and much more! n n

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You’re invited to the

Capital Region’s premier showcase on aging A

first-of-its-kind regional conference on aging issues — aimed at older adults, baby boomers, caregivers of all ages, and professionals in the field of aging — will take place from May 3 to 5 at the Gaylord National Convention Center in National Harbor, Md. This event, called Innovations in Aging 2012, will be for professional and consumer audiences, and represents a collaborative effort by the departments on aging of Maryland, Virginia and the District of Columbia. Training sessions offering CEUs (continuing education units) for professionals will be offered on Thursday and Friday, May 3 and 4. There is a fee for the professional training program. A free Job Fair open to the public will also be held on Thursday, May 3 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Bring your resume and be prepared to speak with potential employers. The main events for the general public will be on Saturday, May 5. A 2K walk to raise funds for the National Kidney Foundation will take place from 8 to 9 a.m. Then an Expo featuring exhibits, the latest technology designed to make life easier, interactive health and wellness activities, cooking demonstrations, exercise classes and more will take place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The goal of Innovations in Aging 2012 is to showcase programs and services that promote healthy community living for a lifetime as well as new directions for aging policy. Highlights will include new technologies and innovative approaches to planning for the future and preparing to age well in the community.

“There is no such thing as a spare American, no matter our age,” said Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley. “Maryland’s senior community is vital to the progress of our state. This expo will help us educate and bring to light the issues and needs of our seniors so they can lead healthy lives and enjoy a better quality of life.” “Longevity is the greatest phenomenon of our time,” according to Gloria Lawlah, Secretary of the Maryland Department of Aging. “Every day, 10,000 baby boomers turn 65. This will continue for 20 years.” Innovations in Aging 2012 is being co-convened by the Virginia Department for the Aging, the District of Columbia Office on Aging, and the Maryland Department of Aging (MDoA), which is acting as this year’s host agency. This is the first large-scale regional collaboration centered on aging issues. Media partners for the Expo include W*USA 9 television and the Beacon. Planning partners include AARP and the National Association of States United for Aging and Disabilities (NASUAD). The charitable partner is the Community Foundation of the National Capital Region. A website — www.InnovationsinAging2012.com — and Facebook page (Innovations in Aging 2012) have been created to provide information for anyone interested in participating. The Expo is free. While advance registration is not required, it is highly suggested. To register, call Janice Brown at (301) 686-1136 or email her at jbrown3397@students.pgcc.edu. For additional information, call the Maryland Department of Aging at (410) 767-1100. The Gaylord National Convention Center is locat-

At the Expo Saturday, May 5 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. On the MAIN STAGE, enjoy entertainment and cooking demonstrations from around the world, including: Latin Dancers, African Drummers and Dancers, the Encore Chorale, “Feast Your Eyes On This” cooking demonstration, open mike poetry hosted by Ladi Di and Brenardo, live bands, Chinese dancers, Prince George’s County’s 2011 Senior Idol Winner, surprise entertainment and more! On the FLOOR STAGE, “Bustin’

Loose!” will feature interactive movement and exercise classes, including Line Dancing, T’ai Chi / Qigong, Latin / Salsa, Body Resistance Training, Zumba Gold Fitness®, a Line Dance demonstration by the Harmony Hall Line Dancers and more! Card tables will be arranged in the exhibition hall where visitors can take in a hand or two of Bridge, Bid Whist, Mah Jong, Pinochle and more while enjoying the music and entertainment on the Main Stage.

JC Hayward Innovations in Aging 2012 Honorary Spokesperson ed at 201 Waterfront St., National Harbor, MD 20745. It’s in Prince George’s County, just across the Potomac from Alexandria, Va., not far from where 495 and 295 intersect. Free bus service will be provided from the Bain Center, 5470 Ruth Keeton Way, Columbia, Md., 21044, on May 5 at 9 a.m., returning by 3 p.m. Call (410) 313-7213 to request a seat.

Free Consumer Education Workshops Saturday, May 5 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (topics subject to change; seating first-come, first-served) • Advice for Older Job Seekers • Why Wait? The Baby Boomer’s Guide to Assisting Parents with End of Life Decisions • Get the Right Information, Right Now! • Reserve Maryland: A Winning Match for Civic Engagement • You’ve Earned a Say (YEAS) • Communications Solutions through Maryland Relay • Be Part of the Solution: Starting a Mental Health Discussion Group • Medicare Fraud: What Everyone

Should Know • Decide, Create, Share: Planning for Long Term Care • When Alzheimer’s Touches Your Life: Where to Turn • Helping Seniors Take Control of Energy Costs • Using Assistive Technology to Support Aging in Place • Medicare Preventive Services under the Affordable Care Act • Ten Common Nutrition Mistakes that Sabotage Healthy Aging • Aging and Disability Resource Centers

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

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H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N â&#x20AC;&#x201D; M AY 2 0 1 2

Four-page Older Americans Month edition 2, N O. 5 â&#x20AC;˘ MAY 2012 VOLUME

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A Message from the Administrator

By Dayna Brown, Office on Aging Administrator

Happy Older Americans Month! The 2012 theme of â&#x20AC;&#x153;Never Too Old to Playâ&#x20AC;? encourages older Americans to stay engaged, active and involved in their own lives and in their communities. As more and more of the 76 million baby boomers reach retirement age (about 10,000 will turn 65 every day between now and 2030), communities like ours have increased their efforts to provide meaningful opportunities for older adults â&#x20AC;&#x201D; many of whom will remain physically and socially active through their 80s and beyond. Many Howard County residents over age 60 are still working, are active in community and faith-based organizations, enjoy online social networking, and regularly participate in physical and recreational activities. Research shows that lifelong participation in social, creative and physical activities has proven health benefits, including retaining mobility, muscle mass and cognitive abilities. But growing older is not without its challenges. With this in mind, the Maryland Department on Aging is co-sponsoring the Innovations in Aging EXPO (www.innovationsinaging2012.com) on Saturday, May 5 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Gaylord National Hotel and Conference Center in National Harbor, Md. The free event will feature exhibits, interactive health and wellness activities, cooking demonstrations, exercise classes, plus a showcase of technologies to help baby boomers and older adults plan for the future and age well in the community. Free transportation to the event will be provided from the Bain Center; call 410-313-7213 to reserve your spot in advance. Of course, the Office on Aging provides services, support and resources to older Americans year-round, but Older Americans Month presents us with a great opportunity to show special appreciation for their contributions as well. Join us on May 16, at 7 p.m. as the Howard County Commission on Aging presents the 2012 Achievement Awards at the Bain Center in Columbia. There is no charge to attend, but please RSVP to 410-313-6410. I hope to see you there. Another great event to add to your calendar is WomenFest (www.howardcountyaging.com/WomenFest), coming up on June 16 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Gary J. Arthur Community Center. We are excited to announce the addition of a free concert by Howard Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own jazz musician Deanna Bogart to the event schedule; see page 4 of this issue of â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Senior Connectionâ&#x20AC;? for details, and be sure to stop by and say hello. I will also be out and about this summer and fall to hear more about what older adults in Howard County want or need from the Office on Aging. Watch for a schedule of meetings coming soon.

Options Counseling: Plan Your Future Your Way

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In todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s world, most of us are so busy that we often donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t take the time to think about our future. But planning ahead for long-term care needs should be a priority, especially if you want to retain some control over these matters. Planning ahead can help you: â&#x20AC;Ś ensure greater independence if you need care, and increase your choices for receiving care outside of a facility, being able to stay at home, or receive services in the community for as long as possible. â&#x20AC;Śdetermine what part of your assets and income will be allocated for long-term care. The cost of long-term care services often exceeds what the average person can pay from income and other resources. â&#x20AC;Ś reduce the emotional and financial stress on you and your family. It can provide a way to involve your family in decisions without depending on them to bear the entire burden alone. â&#x20AC;Ś understand what service options are available in Howard County, what conditions may apply (e.g., age or financial eligibility), the cost of services, and what payment options â&#x20AC;&#x201D; public and private â&#x20AC;&#x201D; apply. As important as it is to plan ahead, many people donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to think about getting older or becoming dependent on others, even though their chances of needing long-term care by the time they turn 65 is as high as 70 percent. Some may be uncomfortable dis-

cussing these subjects with their loved ones, making it difficult to explore and define their plans. Others may not fully understand the costs of long-term care, or how it is paid. Finally, there are those who realize it is important to plan, but donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know how to go about it. So how do you start planning for your future? Just talking with your loved ones is a great first step. Next, arm yourself with knowledge: Check out the long-term care planning resources. Howard County residents can turn to Maryland Access Point (MAP) for help. Part of the Office on Aging, MAP is an aging and disability resource center for older adults, persons with disabilities, family members, caregivers, business and healthcare professionals. MAP specialists are trained to provide information, assistance and long-term support planning to individuals of all income levels, including Options Counseling services. Whether you need information on transportation or energy assistance programs, or want to develop a specialized long-term care plan, a MAP information specialist is just a phone call away. MAP specialists can meet with you in person at our main office or at a senior center, and offer in-home visits to those who are homebound or need special attention. Contact MAP weekdays at 410-313-5980, Maryland Relay 711, toll free 1-800-506-5806, email map@howardcountymd.gov or visit www.marylandaccesspoint.info.

Nutrition Counseling: What to Expect

By Rona Martiyan, RD, MS, LDN, Office on Aging Nutritionist When the Older Americans Act was signed into law on July 14, 1965, it called for the establishment of the Older Americans Nutrition Program (OANP). Its purpose is to: â&#x20AC;˘ Reduce hunger and food insecurity â&#x20AC;˘ Promote socialization of older individuals â&#x20AC;˘ Promote the health and well-being of older individuals and delay adverse health conditions through access to nutrition and other disease prevention and health promotion services.

As part of this program, the Office on Aging provides nutrition counseling and education through its network of senior centers. Rona Martiyan, MS, RD, LDN, a registered dietitian licensed by the state of Maryland, provides both individual nutrition counseling and group education with a singular goal: to boost the well-being of Howard Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s older adults. An individual nutritional counseling sesSee NUTRITION, page 16

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

The Senior Connection

SHIP: Steering your Medicare Education By Bill Salganik, Counselor, Howard County Senior Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) Perplexed by Medicare and other health insurance rules and choices? The Senior Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) can help. SHIP offers free Medicare education events, like the popular “Medicare 101” sessions, as well as one-on-one counseling. Here are some of the topics we cover:  Medicare enrollment. When do you need to sign up? What if you’re still working?  Medicare supplemental insurance. What kind of insurance covers your deductibles and co-pays? How do

you find the most affordable coverage?  Medicare prescription insurance. How do you find a plan that covers your medications? How do you keep up with the changes every year?  Medicare Advantage Plans, such as HMOs. How much are the premiums and co-pays? What are the advantages and disadvantages, compared to “original Medicare” and supplemental insurance?  Income-based assistance. Depending on your income and assets, you may be eligible for government help paying for your prescription coverage, and perhaps even hospital and doctor bills. We can help you find out if you’re

eligible and help fill out the forms.  Billing questions or fraud concerns. Are you and Medicare being charged correctly?  Long-term care insurance. What does it cover? How much does it cost?  Retiree health insurance. How does your employer or union plan fit in with Medicare? Does your plan cover your needs, or should you buy something else? Visit www.howardcountyaging.org to view a schedule of upcoming seminars, or call us at 410-313-7392 to set up a one-on-one appointment at The Bain Center — we are here most weekdays to help.

Hospital Discharge Program Aims to Reduce Readmissions

Across the country, many people are readmitted to hospitals within 30 days of discharge or end up moving to a nursing home because they may not fully understand or follow their discharge instructions, fail to call the doctor when symptoms warrant, are confused about new medications, or have insufficient in-home care. Whatever the reason, the fact is that readmission to hospitals is a serious national healthcare challenge. Knowing how and where to access resources may mean the difference between a successful recuperation and a return to the hospital. Funded in part by a grant from Medicare, the Office on Aging launched the “Person-Centered Hospital Discharge Planning Model” (PCHPD) last Fall in collaboration with Howard County General Hospital (HCGH) to help reduce hospital readmissions. Case managers, social workers, nurses and doctors refer eligible patients — targeting those who receive Medicare or Medicaid assistance — to Kathy Dysland, a registered nurse who serves as the PCHDP’s patient transition guide. Dysland not only brings more than 30 years of nursing experience in the areas of critical care, recovery room and hospice care

Nutrition From page 15

sion lasts ½ hour; there is no charge, but appointments must be scheduled in advance through senior centers. It is important to bring as much information as you can to your appointment — any chronic condition(s) you

Kathy Dysland is the Office on Aging’s patient transition guide.

to her new position, but exudes warmth and compassion as well. “When I first meet with patients, they are still in the hospital and often are feeling overwhelmed by their illness,” says Dysland, “I help fill the gap between hospital and home, and let them know that it’s OK to ask questions or accept help.” Once patients are discharged, Dysland follows up by phone or visits them at home to make sure that they understand their discharge instructions and any new medications, and that they know when to follow up with their doctor. “It helps to create a new master list of all their medmay have, your eating and exercise habits, and a list of current medications. This information helps Rona develop a nutrition strategy tailored to your needs. Group nutrition education sessions are scheduled by senior centers based on the interests of their members. Topics include relevant and timely

ications with the correct dosages, so they can take it with them to their next doctor’s appointment,” she explains. “It’s also important that they know what symptoms to watch for which might mean they need to call the doctor sooner rather than later.” Dysland finds her role as a patient advocate to be extremely rewarding, and hopes that more patients and their family members will avail themselves of her services. “Sometimes it is hard for older adults to ask for help, but when you get sick, it slows you down,” she says. “I help patients deal with life changing events and get on with their lives, while retaining their dignity and independence.” To further assist individuals and their families after hospitalization, Dysland works closely with the staff of the Maryland Access Point (MAP, the Aging and Disability Resource Center of the Office on Aging) and the Senior Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP). MAP specialists can identify local resources for in-home and respite care, transportation, health and wellness classes, and home modifications, while SHIP counselors help navigate the Medicare system and health insurance options. For more information, call 410-313-5980. nutrition issues, and each session allows time for questions and answers. Call your local center for a schedule of upcoming sessions, or check the list below: • May 10: Bain: Fight Arthritis with Nutrition, 10:30 a.m. • May 14: East Columbia 50+: Nutrition Counseling, 4 to 6 p.m.

Upcoming Medicare Events: What to be Alert to After Signing Up for Medicare Wednesday, May 2, 11 a.m. Kiwanis Wallas Recreation Center Medicare 101: What You Can Expect from Medicare Wednesday, May 9, 7 p.m. The Bain Center Medicare 102: Why Medicare Isn’t Enough Wednesday, May 23, 7 p.m. The Bain Center Long Term Living: Covering the Cost Wednesday, May 30, 11 a.m. Kiwanis Wallas Recreation Center No fee. Call 410-313-7391 to register.

Howard County Senior Centers

THE BAIN CENTER 5470 Ruth Keeton Way, Columbia 410-313-7213 EAST COLUMBIA 50+ CENTER 6600 Cradlerock Way, Columbia 410-313-7680 ELKRIDGE SENIOR CENTER 6540 Washington Blvd., Elkridge 410-313-5192 ELLICOTT CITY SENIOR CENTER 9401 Frederick Road, Ellicott City 410-313-1400 GLENWOOD 50+ CENTER 2400 Route 97, Cooksville 410-313-5440 LONGWOOD SENIOR CENTER 6150 Foreland Garth, Columbia 410-313-7217 NORTH LAUREL 50+ CENTER 9411 Whiskey Bottom Road, Laurel 410-313-0380 ELLICOTT CITY SENIOR CENTER PLUS 9401 Frederick Road, Ellicott City 410-313-1425 GLENWOOD SENIOR CENTER PLUS 2400 Route 97, Cooksville 410-313-5442 NORTH LAUREL SENIOR CENTER PLUS 9411 Whiskey Bottom Road, Laurel 410-313-7218

• May 16: North Laurel: Nutrition Counseling, 10 a.m. to noon • May 17: Elkridge: Summer Cookouts – Grilled Veggies, 10 a.m. • May 23: Longwood: (topic to be determined), 11 a.m. • May 23: Ellicott City: Nutrition Counseling, 12:30 p.m. to 3 p.m.

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

Coming Events

The Senior Connection

Tuesday, May 1, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. – Howard County Law Day: Free Medical Decision Document Preparation Draft your preferences for medical treatment in case you become incapacitated. Volunteer attorneys will offer free preparation of Maryland medical decision documents at the Bain Center, the Ellicott City and Elkridge Senior Centers, and the East Columbia and North Laurel 50+ Centers. Call for an appointment.

Wed., May 2, 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. – CarFit, North Laurel 50+ Center Sponsored by AAA, AARP and AOTA, CarFit helps older adult drivers adjust their car’s steering wheel, seat belts and mirrors to ensure safety. Free; call 410-313-0380 for details and appointments. Sunday, May 6, 2 p.m. – Show Time Singers, Ellicott City Senior Center The Show Time Singers perform Broadway Tunes and Popular Standards. Supported by grants from the Howard County Arts Council and Howard County Government; donations accepted to benefit the Linwood Center. To reserve free tickets, call 410-313-1400.

Tuesday, May 8, 11 a.m. – Al Callahan Sings, Ellicott City Senior Center Celebrate Older Americans Month with the fabulous Al Callahan and his rendition of “Oldies but Goodies.” Call 410-313-1400 for details. Tuesdays, May 8 – June 12, 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. — Living Well with Diabetes, YMCA of Central Maryland, 4331 Montgomery Rd., Ellicott City Learn techniques to cope with diabetes, exercises to improve strength, flexibility and endurance, and more. Cost: $28; to register, call Maryland Access Point (MAP), 410-313-5980.

Tuesdays, May 8, 15, 22, 1 to 2:30 p.m. – Pets Are Us: Explore the Connection, Glenwood 50+ Center Explore pet care and bereavement, with guest speakers from the veterinary community. Free; sponsored by Pets on Wheels and SPRING. Contact Karen Hull, 410-313-7466, or register at Glenwood.

Thursday, May 10, noon – Stir it Up Chef Event, Glenwood 50+ Center The chef is back to stir it up with stir fry! Enjoy music from the band; weather permitting we’ll be outside! Cost: suggested lunch donation.

Friday, May 11, 10:30 a.m. to noon – Mother’s Day Brunch, The Bain Center Mothers will be honored during this event, but men are welcome too! Featuring the Retro Rockets. Cost: $7. Call 410-313-7213 for details.

Monday, May 14, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. – Bridge Boot Camp, Glenwood 50+ Center Ruth Ann Mazur presents “Hand Evaluation...Love and Lust at the Bridge Table.” Fee ($65) includes booklet, instruction, practice, lunch, snacks. Register early. Wed., May 16, 11 a.m. to noon – “Ask Dr. Dan,” North Laurel 50+ Center Join Dr. Dan Storch for “Tips on Coping with Anxious Times.” Free; for information, call 410-313-0380.

Wednesday, May 16, 1 to 2:30 p.m. – Power Over Pain Group, North Laurel 50+ Center Join a group just for those who live with chronic pain. To register, call 410313-0380; for more information, contact Karen Hull, 410-313-7466.

Wed., May 16, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. — ARL Computer Class Trip, Longwood Senior Center PC Systems Academy students will help you set-up, use and maintain your personal computer. Transportation is available. For information, call 410-313-7217.

Wed., May 16, 7 to 9 p.m. – COA Achievement Awards Program, The Bain Center The Commission on Aging presents their 2012 Achievement Awards. Free refreshments; call 410-313-6410 to RSVP.

Friday, May 18, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. – 3rd Annual Preakness Luncheon, The Bain Center Wear your best hat to enter to win the grand prize. Free; call 410-313-7213 to register. Friday, May 18, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. – Jewelry Making Class, East Columbia 50+ Learn how to make a beaded ankle bracelet just in time for summer. Cost: $21. Call 410-313-7680.

Friday, May 18, 11 a.m. – Preakness Brunch Celebration, Ellicott City Senior Center Don your hats and kick off Preakness weekend with an omlet created by Overlea Caterers will create customized omelets. Call 410-313-1400 for reservations; suggested donation: $5.66. Monday, May 21 to Friday, May 25, 10 a.m. – Health and Wellness Week, Elkridge Senior Center Monday: Massage Therapy; Tuesday: Aromatherapy Candle Class; Wednesday: Glaucoma Screenings; Thursday: Chair Yoga; Friday: Destressing Your Life. Lunch at noon each day; all events are free with a lunch donation. For more information, call 410-313-5192. Wednesday, May 23, 10 a.m. – noon, Recollections of the Fall of Saigon, The Bain Center Tom Glenn, DPA shares the story of that last day and his last-minute escape under fire. Call 410-313-7213 to register.

Wednesday, May 23, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. – Senior Prom, Glenwood 50+ Center Join Glenwood Middle School students and dance to Orlando Phillips’ Caribbean music. Program includes lunch. Information: 410-313-5440. Wed., May 23, 11 a.m. to noon – Ballet Mobile, North Laurel 50+ Center Ballet Mobile brings inspirational ballet and dance to the community. Free; for more information, call 410313-0380. Wed., May 23, 11 a.m. Smart Snacking, Longwood Senior Center Dietitian Rona Martiyan will share tips on how to choose nutrient-rich snacks. Information: 410-313-7217.

Thursday, May 24, 10 a.m. – World War II Talk, Glenwood 50+ Center Join Brad Berger, from the National Park Service, for a talk on McArthur’s return to the Philippines. Call 410313-5440 for details.

Thursday, May 24, 12:30 p.m. – The Surrender on USS Missouri, Ellicott City Senior Center National Park Ranger Brad Berger will talk about the day World War II effectively ended. Call 410-313-1400 to reserve your seat.

Thursday, May 31, 6 to 7:30 p.m. – Older, Wiser? Life Keeps Booming, The Bain Center The Mental Health Players from the Mental Health Association of Maryland will perform three vignettes on the challenges of life as we age. Audience interaction is encouraged! Free; light refreshments served. Call 410-313-7213 for more information or to register.

THE 2012 CALL FOR VENDORS & SPONSORS!

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2012 9:00 am - 4:00 pm • Wilde Lake HS

Where the Many Faces of 50+ Meet! Contact: Lisa Madera, Event Coordinator 410.313.5990 • lmadera@howardcountymd.gov

WWW.HOWARDCOUNTYAGING.ORG/50PLUSEXPO

The Senior Connection is published monthly by the Howard County Office on Aging, Department of Citizen Services. We welcome your comments and suggestions. To contact us, or to join our email subscriber list, email seniorconnection@howardcountymd.gov with ‘subscribe’ in the subject box. Howard County Office on Aging 6751 Columbia Gateway Drive, Columbia, MD 21046

410-313-6410

www.howardcountyaging.org 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.

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

The Senior Connection

An interactive day designed to inspire you to live a more balanced, healthy and fulfilled life!

Don’t Miss this Year’s Exciting Changes! Now a weekend event by popular demand!

Saturday, June 16, 2012 9:00 am - 3:00 pm Gary J. Arthur Community Center at Glenwood 2400 Route 97, Cooksville, MD 21723

NEW for 2012... Deanna Bogart in Concert! Plus, a great offering of... • Dynamic Vendors & Exhibitors PHOTO BY

Jewelry; Fashion; Home Decor; Health & Fitness; Arts & Crafts; Financial Services; Home Goods; Travel and MORE!

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• Relevant & Engaging Seminars The Benefits of Wine & Chocolate; Cool Tips for Hot Flashes; The Power of Caring for Yourself; Clearing Clutter to Create Calm; Myth Busters: Health Facts & Fiction, and MORE!

BRING A LAWN CHAIR FOR THE DEANNA BOGART CONCERT! LUNCH AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE

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HER MIND MAGAZINE

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410.313.5440 www.howardcountyaging.org/womenfest

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

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Money

Law &

Tips for getting the best deal on a new car and for trade-ins. See story on page 21.

Pre-owned annuities: low risk, high return Most readers are looking for safe invest- count to the buyer. ments with a high rate of return. One inEach of the original annuity terms — the vestment that can meet these interest rate, the scheduled objectives is a pre-owned anpayment date and the paynuity. ment amount — remains fixed Many people own the rights for the duration of the annuity. to annuities that guarantee So, in order to structure a monthly income, sometimes reasonable offer, one needs to for terms of up to 50 years. consider the balance of the fuSome of these owners are willture payments, the estabing to sell the legal right to lished interest rate associated their structured monthly paywith the annuity, and the numments, at a discount, for a ber of payments remaining. THE SAVINGS lump-sum payment. These help determine the GAME There are companies that By Elliot Raphaelson present value of the annuity, specialize in this field and act which can then be priced for as intermediaries, for a fee, arranging to purchase. sell these annuities to individuals who are In the end, the original owner receives willing to buy them for a fixed price in his lump-sum payment, the intermediary order to obtain a guaranteed monthly in- receives a fee, and the new owner receives come for the remaining term of the annuity. an attractive rate of return (in comparison A typical seller is somebody who was in- to other options available today) for the rejured in an accident and received an annu- maining term of the annuity. ity settlement from an insurance company. That person may prefer to have a large Rate of return can be high One of the major advantages of purchaslump sum instead of a stream of annuity income for, say, 30 years. To get that lump ing a pre-owned annuity is that the dissum, they must be willing to give a discount can be significant.

Get Involved!

These annuities are paid by major insurance companies and other organizations with excellent credit ratings. For longterm annuities, such as 30 years or longer, the current rate of return is more than 6 percent. You can see a sample of these offerings at TotalReturnAnnuities.com (1-866-8661999). Some of these offerings are for as long as 50 years, and some are as short as two or three years. Generally speaking, the longer the duration, the higher the rate of return. For example, checking one day in December, I found these offerings (listed are the duration of the annuity, the rate of return, and the paying company): • 50 years, 6.75 percent, MetLife • 40 years, 6.5 percent, Continental Life • 30 years, 6.5 percent, Prudential Only a limited number of offers are made each week, and attractive offerings do not stay on the market very long. If you are interested in a specific offering, you will be asked to make a down payment, which generally is 5 or 10 percent of the total amount due. Once your offer has been approved (it may take a week or so

for approval), you will be asked for the remainder of the total payment.

Some shortcomings What are the disadvantages associated with this product? In my opinion, the major one is that this kind of annuity is not a liquid investment. You cannot assume that you will be able to sell it. There may be exceptions, but you should assume that you will have to keep it for the rest of the life of the annuity. A second disadvantage is that interest rates may increase in the future. You will not be able to renegotiate the interest rate of your annuity. Assume that whatever payment you receive is the payment you will receive for the length of the annuity. If you decide to purchase this type of annuity, you should discuss with your attorney the desired form of ownership. It is advisable to establish ownership in a way so that it will not be probate property. In that way, income from the annuity will be continuous for your beneficiaries after your death. See ANNUITIES, page 20

ELDER LAW, ESTATE AND SPECIAL NEEDS PLANNING

Golden Opportunities for Seniors to Participate in Howard County Public Schools Volunteer in schools

Medical Assistance Planning

Share your expertise

Asset Protection

Advise on curriculum

Guardianship

Powers of Attorney Advance Medical Directives/ Living Wills

Trusts/ Estate Planning Administration Disability Planning/ Special Needs Trusts

Advocate for educational excellence Receive school system e-news Attend student performances and sporting events (free/ discounted for ages 65+)

JASON FRANK,ESQ.

KANDACE SCHERR, ESQ.

MARY O’BYRNE, ESQ.

For more information visit

1400 FRONT AVE., SUITE 200 · LUTHERVILLE, MD 21093 Salisbury, MD · Columbia, MD

or call 410-313-6682

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

Up-and-coming stocks costing $12 or less By Jennifer Schonberger Look at a list of any day’s top performers and you’ll see that low-priced stocks almost always dominate. Of course, the lists of the biggest losers are also often filled with low-priced stocks. These stocks are risky because the underlying companies are either small or troubled. Still, the hunt for the next big thing tantalizes.

In that spirit, we’ve identified three stocks that have the potential to shine over the next few years. (Note: share prices shown are as of April 10, 2012.) Kodiak Oil & Gas Symbol KOG; recent price, $9.04 Investors are going gaga over shale. Huge new discoveries and improvements in technology for extracting oil and natural gas from rock formations are putting the U.S.

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back on the road to energy independence. Denver-based Kodiak has a strong foothold in the Bakken oil-shale formation, a 200,000-square-mile swath of land that contains the largest known reserve of light sweet crude oil in North America. Kodiak produced the equivalent of 17,000 barrels of oil per day last year, analysts estimate, and they project that production will hit 30,000 barrels per day by the end of 2012. Analysts forecast that sales will leap 360 percent this year, to $637 million, with earnings nearly quadrupling. Points International PCOM; $10.52 Just about every major consumer business tries to lure customers with some sort of rewards program. Points International helps companies administer their loyalty programs. It counts among its clients various airlines, Amtrak, Best Buy and Starbucks. The Toronto company also operates Points.com, the only website at which consumers can register their rewards programs, redeem and buy points, and trade points with other people. Points’ profits are growing briskly. Analysts estimate that earnings will more than double in 2012. Velti VELT; $11.34

When Bose, the consumer-electronics company, wanted to promote a new headphone model, it turned to Velti, which placed ads on a smartphone song-recognition app. Users who clicked on the ad were taken to a mobile website. On the ad’s first day, 70 percent of users who visited the site clicked the “buy now” button. Such is the appeal of Velti, an Irish company that also manages mobile ad campaigns for such companies as Intel and Johnson & Johnson. Velti, which went public in January 2011 at $15 per share, coasted to nearly $20 before crashing to its current price over concerns about the company’s exposure to weak European economies and a disappointing earnings report. But the mobile-ad market is exploding: Sales were estimated at $13 billion in 2011 and are expected to hit $29 billion by 2014. Velti is well positioned to benefit from that growth. Analysts see earnings soaring 89 percent in 2012. Jennifer Schonberger is a staff writer at Kiplinger’s Personal Finance magazine. Send your questions and comments to moneypower@kiplinger.com. And for more on this and similar money topics, visit www.Kiplinger.com. © 2012 Kiplinger’s Personal Finance

Annuities

an intermediary offering these annuities, has an excellent webpage (www.samesi.com/investors-and-attorneys.php) that discusses this product in detail. Elliot Raphaelson welcomes your questions and comments at elliotraph@gmail.com. © 2012 Elliot Raphaelson. All rights reserved. Distributed by Tribune Media Services, Inc.

From page 19 Overall, pre-owned annuities are an attractive alternative for investors willing to make a long-term or intermediate-term investment. They are low-risk investments with a high rate of return. Settlement Asset Management, which is

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

Tips for getting the best deal on a new car By Jessica Anderson You probably love getting new wheels, but hate the feeling that you and the dealer are playing a game you can’t win. Knowing how the game works, however, can help you sidestep potential pitfalls, command better treatment and get a fair price. Before you step into a dealership, find out what the car cost the dealer and what other buyers are paying. You can find invoice prices, cash incentives, financing deals and average transaction prices at www.truecar.com. Call several dealers in advance and ask for an Internet salesperson or manager to negotiate prices over the phone and get firm offers via email. When you go to the showroom, take printouts of the pricing details, especially if dealerships are touting special offers. Not up for haggling, period? Try a car buying service, such as CarBargains or TrueCar. The best time to shop is at the end of the month, when dealers try to meet sales goals and qualify for month-end bonuses.

If a salesperson asks you what your target monthly payment is, don’t take the bait. There are many ways to lower the monthly payment that will cost more over the long haul — extending the loan term or switching to a lease, for example. Keep the discussions focused on the total price.

Ask for discounts Be sure to ask for a “loyalty” discount if you’re buying another vehicle of the same brand as your last. If you’re new to the brand, ask for the “conquest” discount. Both of these come from the manufacturer and range from $500 to $2,000. And don’t be fooled when the salesperson steps into another room to “get approval from the manager” for the price you’ve offered. Stay firm on a fair price and be ready to walk. A good chunk of dealer profit comes

from the finance-and-insurance office, so bring financing from your bank or credit union to compare with whatever you’re offered. And don’t forget to mention the customer satisfaction survey — every buyer

BEACON BITS

Apr. 21

TAKING A STAND AGAINST HUMAN TRAFFICKING To help raise awareness of human trafficking victims in the U.S.

and other countries, Howard County Commission for Women and Howard County Advocacy Against Human Trafficking and Slavery will host a workshop and panel discussion on Saturday, April 21 from 2 to 4:30 p.m. at the Bain Center, 5470 Ruth Keeton Way, Columbia. Registration is not required, but reservations are requested and may be placed by emailing jwoltze@howardcountymd.gov or by calling (410) 313-6400.

Trade-in tips Got a trade-in? Used cars are in short supply, so you’re in a great position. You’ll get the highest price if you sell your old car yourself. Check prices on AutoTrader.com to gauge the market, and stop by CarMax to get a quote. When you hit the lot, wear your poker face so you don’t tip your hand that you really, really want a particular car. A dealership will often gang up on a customer by sending two salespeople or a salesperson and a manager to make the deal, so it can help to have someone with you who’s got your back.

BEACON BITS

May 2

MAKE THE MOST OF MEDICARE A free workshop dis-

cussing how to get the most out of Medicare coverage and reduce problems will be held on Wednesday, May 2 at 11 a.m. at the Kiwanis Wallas

BRAND NEW APARTMENT HOMES FOR ACTIVE ADULTS 62 OR BETTER Regency Crest is an extraordinarily carefree community because of the convenient lifestyle enjoyed by those who live here. We go the extra mile to provide our residents with distinctive amenities and service that cannot be found in ordinary active adult communities.

Recreation Center, 3300 Norbert’s Way, Columbia. For further information or to register, call (410) 313-7391.

May 9

MEDICARE 101 A free workshop sponsored by the

Howard County Office on Aging reviews how Medicare works, its benefits and how it relates to supplemen-

COMMUNITY AMENITIES • Beautiful club room with theater and demonstration kitchen • Wellness center • Indoor saltwater pool • Yoga studio and classes • Cooking Classes, and many more planned activities

• Movie theater • Billiards room • Business center • Incredible courtyard and meditation garden with koi pond and gazebo

tal health insurance. The session will be held on Wednesday, May 9 at 7 p.m. at the Bain Center, 5470 Ruth Keaton Way, Columbia. For further in-

PLANNED ACTIVITIES SUCH AS WATER AEROBICS, RESIDENT MIXERS, COOKING CLASSES, ZUMBA, MOVIE NIGHTS, BBQ’S AND MANY MORE!

formation or to register, call (410) 313-7391.

Directions: We are located at the corner of Rt. 40 and Rogers Avenue.

3305 Oak West Drive Ellicott City, MD 21043

410.846.0079 www.RegencySeniorApts.com

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

You can trade in old electronics for cash By Jeff Bertolucci How many dusty gizmos and gadgets do you have languishing at home? It’s easy to convert those old cellphones, computers, iPods, video games and movie DVDs into quick cash.

A number of big-name shopping sites — including Amazon, Best Buy, eBay and Gazelle — will offer cash or store credit for your gear. The process is quick and painless, and you won’t have to pay shipping costs, even if the buyer rejects your hard-

SHEEP & WOOL FESTIVAL The 39th Annual Maryland Sheep & Wool Festival will be held on

Saturday, May 5 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Sunday, May 6 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Howard County Fairgrounds, 2210 Fairground Rd., West Friendship. The event is sponsored by the Maryland Sheep Breeders Association. For more information including a schedule of events, visit the website office@sheepandwool.org or call (410) 531-3647.

Heartlands: a home that touches your heart

Within a couple of weeks, Amazon notified me via email that it had examined and accepted my iPod. It immediately credited my gift-card balance.

eBay Instant Sale Amazon Trade-In Store

BEACON BITS

May 5+

ware and returns it. Each marketplace is different, but you’ll usually get top dollar for trading in highdemand items, such as Apple desktop and laptop computers.

As you might expect from the world’s top e-tailer, Amazon has an extremely user-friendly interface. The site accepts trade-ins — for store credit — in four categories: books, video games, movies & TV DVDs, and electronics. To submit an item, you enter the product’s name in a search window, and then answer a few quick questions about its condition. If Amazon is interested, you’ll receive an offer on the spot. But what if Amazon, upon receiving your device, decides the product is worth less than its original offer? You have the option of automatically accepting a reduced price or having the product returned to you at no charge. Amazon offered $63.25 for my Apple iPod nano, which was a few years old but still in excellent condition. I accepted the offer and printed Amazon’s free UPS mailing label, which popped up in a browser window. Next, I boxed up the iPod, drove to my nearest UPS Store, and dropped it off. Painless.

EBay’s service works pretty much the same way that Amazon’s Trade-In Store does, albeit with two notable differences. Before returning a product to you, eBay first asks if you’ll accept a reduced price. And unlike Amazon, eBay pays cash, not store credit. The fastest way to get paid is to open an account with eBay’s PayPal service (if you haven’t already) and transfer the funds to your checking account. Other sites besides eBay offer cash, including Gazelle (www.gazelle.com), which also operates trade-in services for bigname retailers such as Costco and Walmart. If you’d rather not pack up your gear, go to a participating Best Buy or Radio Shack store, where someone will appraise and buy your products on the spot. Many trade-in services will offer to recycle your device free if they don’t want to buy it. Jeff Bertolucci is a freelance writer for Kiplinger’s Personal Finance magazine. © 2012 Kiplinger’s Personal Finance

Learn how to make From the daughter of our resident Mr. Dell Bean... Moving my dad to Heartlands has given my family the peace of mind to know that he is being taken care of. It gives us a real sense of relief knowing that he is eating well, having the opportunity to exercise in a safe environment, and being a part of a community. Everyone at Heartlands has opened their hearts to him and it has been really great! -Lindsey Marks

At Heartlands Ellicott City, you will find: • Cottages with updated kitchens, walk-in closet and three-season porch • On-site medical services and wellness center • State-of-the-art fitness and rehab center with indoor pool and spa

• Recreational and cultural events, trips and scheduled transportation • Gazebo, patio, pond and fountain • Shopping and medical centers nearby • And more...

For a complimentary lunch and personal tour, please call Natalia Burke at (410) 461-9494

Every time you use the phone. If any disability makes it difficult for you to use the telephone, you may qualify for FREE assistive telephone equipment through the Maryland Accessible Telecommunications program.

Even though you may be able to carry on a conversation with someone in person, you may have difficulty communicating by standard telephone. The Maryland Accessible Telecommunications (MAT) program, a service of Maryland Relay, provides assistive telecommunications equipment — free of charge — to people who qualify. Training on how to use the equipment is available. To learn more about the free equipment, including hands-free phones, amplified phones, voice activated phones and more, simply call Maryland Relay Customer Service at 1-800-552-7724. You may also visit our website, www.mdrelay.org. Click on Free Equipment for more information on how to apply

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

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Travel

Leisure &

How to avoid blood clots while traveling. See story on page 25

Eclectic Montreal offers international flair Limited In size by the island it occupies, located at the confluence of the Saint Lawrence and Ottawa Rivers, Montreal is easy to explore by foot. Most of it is flat, and it has an excellent bus and subway system. Before embarking on our excursions, Fyllis and I pored over a city map to plan the most efficient use of our time, and save on shoe leather and energy. Because Montreal’s neighborhoods merge gently into each other, often with several blocks of overlap, it was not difficult to follow routes that introduced us to the areas we wished to cover.

By Victor Block Following a bountiful breakfast of dim sum, my wife Fyllis and I strolled along lanes lined by shops selling merchandise both familiar and unknown to us. Some store windows displayed unrecognizable animal body parts, others a variety of herbal remedies said to heal a hospital full of ills. Lunch meant a steaming bowl of pasta accompanied by a glass of Chianti wine, and a pause to watch a group of men good-naturedly competing in a lively game of bocce. The day ended by sampling the European charm of art galleries, chic boutiques and cafes overlooking cobblestone streets that were packed with passers-by walking and riding in horse-drawn carriages. This whirlwind ‘round-the-world tour didn’t require traveling by plane, train or automobile. A comfy pair of walking shoes was all that we needed to explore the intriguing neighborhoods that combine to make Montreal a kaleidoscope of cultures and customs. The city has a well-deserved reputation for its French flair and joie-de-vivre. That influence came alive for us as we sampled outstanding Continental cuisine, sipped French wines and admired architectural gems that would be at home in Paris. What’s surprising is how many other nationalities share the scene. Several neighborhoods are enclaves of specific ethnic groups that have imported their traditions from the old country. Others are identified by lifestyles or the activities that are centered there.

Old Montreal During our first day, we concentrated on Old Montreal (Vieux-Montreal) and the Old Port (Vieux-Port), and neighborhoods within a short stroll. The cafes and shops of the city’s original section lend it a distinct Parisian air. The first European settlers arrived in 1642, and some buildings that still stand trace their history back to the 17th century. Today the sidewalks attract crowds of visitors and street performers playing music, juggling and doing whatever it takes to separate members of their audience from a few coins. Vieux-Montreal spills into the Vieux-Port, once working docks where shipping operations have been replaced by a menu of both outdoor and indoor activities. River cruises and al fresco exhibitions vie for the attention of visitors with the opportunity to challenge © TOURISME MONTRÉAL

Montreal’s vast multilevel network of underground shops, theaters and walkways — the largest such mall in the world — protects visitors and tourists from the elements during the Quebec city’s long winters.

Place Jacques-Cartier, one of the most popular spots in Old Montreal, makes one think of Paris. In the summer, the square is filled with street artists and kiosks.

their minds at the Montreal Science Center. In keeping with the center’s location in a former maritime shed, one exhibit recalls the surprisingly interesting story of operation of a major harbor. Others amaze and amuse with displays ranging from a multimedia representation of the human brain to props from Indiana Jones movies. Very different settings lie but a short walk away. Large arches spanning a narrow street and rooftop pagodas announce that you’ve entered Chinatown, whose history may be traced back to the 1860s when Chinese workers came to Canada to toil in mines and on the railroads. Today some of their descendants run restaurants and shops, patronize fortune tellers seated at small outside tables, and take part in traditional exercises in any open space large enough to accommodate them. Trendy rather than traditional is the order of the day in the Village (Le Village) neighborhood, which epitomizes Canada’s reputation as an open, accepting society. It is one of the largest gay enclaves in the world, seemingly alive at all hours of day and night. While some restaurants, bars and shops cater to members of the local community, many serve a general clientele that makes the Village more an entertainment and tourism center than just a gay quarter.

Food and fun Food, arts and entertainment characterize three neighborhoods that Fyllis and I combined into a disparate day of sightseeing. Not surprisingly, dining is a focus of much that occurs in Little Italy, where one of Montreal’s largest cultural groups arrived and set up shop in the late 19th century. It’s not easy to ignore mouth-watering aromas of pasta, pizza and tiramisu wafting out of trattorias and cafés. Italian is just one of countless languages heard at the Jean-Talon Market, where shoppers have gathered for more than 70 years to browse and buy meat, cheese, produce and pastries. Since the 1960s and 70s, the arts in a variety of forms have been a trademark of the neighborhood called the Plateau. That’s when it became a magnet for writers, artists, musicians and singers — a role it continues to fulfill. With a packed calendar of events and activities, it’s where young professionals and other members of the “In” crowd gather to socialize.

Highs and lows During our last day of sightseeing, Fyllis and I combined a dramatic overlook of See MONTREAL, page 24

Leisure & Travel | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

Montreal From page 23 the city with a journey beneath it. First we walked to the top of Mont Royal, which holds a place dear in the hearts of many residents. That’s true in part because the city’s name was derived from the original spelling, Mont Real. The 764-foot-tall mountain, in reality more a high hill, is blanketed by deep woods. A network of hiking trails provides opportunities to spot some of the 140 or so species of birds that dwell there, and lead to dramatic viewing points over the city below. A spacious chalet displays paintings that trace the history of French Canada and Montreal. Very different from the heights of Mont Royal — in both altitude and attitude — is another favorite haunt of both locals and tourists. Imagine an 18-mile network of walkways connecting some 2,000 shops, restaurants, entertainment venues and other attractions, where it never rains or snows, the temperature is always perfect, and pedestrians don’t have to deal with traffic or crossing streets. Furthermore, this vast subterranean space, the largest underground complex in the world, provides indoor access to department stores, hotels, museums, theatres and cinemas along the streets overhead. Montreal’s Underground City is a virtual neighborhood where, as I quipped to Fyllis, but

only half in jest, one could almost live. Unfortunately, Fyllis and I didn’t have time to explore in depth other neighborhoods that comprise Montreal. Little India, Little Greece and Little Portugal, while modest in size, feature some shops that sell traditional items and restaurants serving traditional food from those countries. As its name implies, the Quartier des Spectacles is the cultural heart of the city. Within less than a square mile, visitors may take in movies and plays, enjoy concerts and dance performances, view art exhibitions and enjoy a good laugh at a comedy show. A tiny area of the Plateau borough called Mile End is perhaps the most diverse neighborhood of all. Artists and filmmakers, hipsters and Hassidic Jews, along with a virtual United Nations of immigrants call it home. Among people I passed on the street there were a red-wigged Lady Gaga wannabe wearing what appeared to be pajamas, and both men and women displaying elaborate tattoos on most of their exposed skin. It is scenes like these that lend Montreal a distinctive air. The visitor’s first impression may be of a large, modern, bustling city, albeit with an overlay of French language and culture. Beneath that surface lies a potpourri of neighborhoods that combine to provide a

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

rich and varied lifestyle for residents and an inviting experience for visitors.

If you go In addition to its diverse neighborhoods, Montreal is a city of outstanding museums. Consider purchasing the threeday Montreal Museums Pass, which covers one-time admission to 38 museums as well as unlimited bus and subway rides ($65). If you’re in a mood to splurge on accommodations, check out the luxurious Hotel Nelligan. Nestled in the heart of Old Montreal, it provides a good location for daily treks around town. The 105 rooms and suites combine European elegance and charm. Rates during spring begin at about $200 a night. For more information call 1877-788-2040 or log onto www.hotelnelligan.com. A slightly less costly but no less appealing alternative is Le Petit Hotel, a new 24room boutique property that is chic and contemporary. It’s housed in a 19th-century building also in the historic district. Rates start at $179 a night. For more information, call 1-877-530-0360 or log onto www.petithotelmontreal.com. It’s not surprising that a city with a strong overlay of French culture is a true culinary Mecca. What’s less well-known is that many of the more than 5,000 restaurants in Montreal serve over 80 kinds of international cuisine. Within one short

block, I passed eateries serving Japanese, Indian, Mexican, Greek and Italian food. Among local specialties that I sampled were poutine, a fast food snack that combines French fries and chunks of cheese curd covered with gravy or a sauce; Montreal bagels, a thinner, sweeter version of the U.S. favorite that is boiled in honeywater then baked in a wood-burning stove, and pastrami-like smoked meat. The best place to enjoy the latter, I was assured, is Schwartz’s, which since 1928 has been attracting crowds that stretch out the front door and down the block. A giant-size sandwich ($5.90) was adequate for Fyllis and me to share, washed down by the traditional dark cherry soda ($1.80). It’s located at 3895 Blvd. St. Laurent, phone (514) 842-4813, website www.schwartzsdeli.com. Among restaurants where we enjoyed more familiar fare was Modavie at #I Rue St. Paul West. It’s a casual, lively bistro that serves a variety of pastas ($19-$24), tasty chicken with tarragon sauce ($22), and excellent grilled salmon ($24), both accompanied by rice pilaf and vegetables. For more information, call (514) 287-9582 or log onto www.modavie.com. The least expensive roundtrip ticket to Montreal from BWI in mid-May $588 on Air Canada. For information about visiting Montreal, call 1-877-266-5687 or log onto www.tourisme-montreal.org.

WANTED All Marylanders 100 years of age and older, or who will be age 100 by December 31, 2012, to attend the 20th anniversary of the

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

Learn more by calling (410) 997-0610 or visit us at www.cogsmd.org.

Join us at our

may CoGS meeting Recognition Luncheon

Thursday, May 10, 2012 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Martin’s West

date: Wednesday, may 23, 2012 time: 8:30-10:00 a.m. Location: Copper Ridge 720 Obrecht Rd, Sykesville, MD 21785

Speaker: Rebecca Bowman, Howard County Office of Consumer Affairs Special: “Bull’s Eye On Your Back? Avoiding Scams, Cons and Rip-offs Targeted at Seniors”

6821 Dogwood Rd. • Baltimore, MD

Thank You to Our 2012 Sponsors

All family and friends of centenarians are also welcome. Donation: $27. Centenarians admitted free with registration. For more information or to register,

Howard County General Hospital – Johns Hopkins Medicine • The Beacon

PLatinum SPonSorS

call (410) 664-0911

GoLd SPonSorS Being There Senior Care • Howard County Oﬃce on Aging • Visiting Angels

SiLver SPonSorS Bayada Home Health Care • Carney, Kelehan, Bresler, Bennett & Scherr LLP • Deborah L. Herman, CPA Ellicott City Pharmacy • Gary L. Kaufman Funeral Home at Meadowridge Memorial Park

Bronze SPonSorS

SPONSORS: AARP, The Beacon Newspaper, CARE Services, Community College of Baltimore at Catonsville, Elizabeth Cooney Agency, Maryland Department of Aging, Social Security Administration

Earl Wilkinson, M.D., ENT • EverCare Hospice & Palliative Care • Homewatch Caregivers Professional Healthcare Resources, Inc. • Transitions Healthcare Patron memBerS Alzheimer’s Association – Greater MD Chapter • Brooke Grove Retirement Village • Elizabeth Cooney Care Network Gentiva Health Services • Home With You, LLC Ivy Manor Normandy • Meals on Wheels • Morningside House of Ellicott City Premier Planning Group • Right At Home Russell Craig Witzke – Funerals & Cremations, P.A. Whaley Financial Services • Winter Growth • Wood Builders Collaborative

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

For most travelers, blood clot risk is low By Lindsey Tanner Good news for budget-minded travelers: There’s no proof that flying economy-class increases your chances of dangerous blood clots, according to new guidelines from medical specialists. Travelers’ blood clots have been nicknamed “economy class syndrome,” but the new advice suggests this is a misnomer. The real risk is not getting up and moving during long flights — whether flying coach or first-class. Sitting by the window seems to play a role, because it makes people less likely to leave their seats, the guidelines say. Still, even on flights lasting up to four hours, the risk of clots for most people is extremely low and not something to be alarmed about, said Dr. Gordon Guyatt, chairman of an American College of Chest Physicians’ committee that wrote the new guidelines.

The group, based in Northbrook, Ill., represents more than 18,000 physicians whose specialties include lung disease and critical care. The guidelines were released online last month in the group’s journal, Chest. They’re based on a review of recent research and other medical evidence on deep vein thrombosis, blood clots that form deep in leg veins.

Longest flights riskiest Flights lasting eight hours or more are riskiest, the guidelines say. Muscles in the lower legs help push blood in the legs and feet back to the heart. Sitting still for extended periods of time without using these muscles puts pressure on leg veins. As a result, blood “tends to sit there,” which can increase chances for clots to form, said Guyatt, a researcher at McMaster University in Hamil-

BEACON BITS

May 3

ENJOY THE NATIONAL MALL MUSEUMS Take your pick of the Washington, D.C. museums in the National

ton, Ontario. These clots can cause leg pain, swelling and redness, and can be life-threatening if they travel to the lungs. They can be treated with blood-thinning drugs, but may cause permanent damage to leg veins. Most people who develop such clots have risk factors including obesity, older age, recent surgery, a history of previous blood clots, or use of birth control pills. The average risk for a deep vein blood clot in the general population is about 1 per 1,000 each year. Long-haul travel doubles the chance, but still, the small risk should reassure healthy travelers that they’re unlikely to develop clots, said Dr. Susan Kahn, a co-author of the new guidelines and a professor of medicine at McGill

University in Montreal. Traveling by bus, train and car may also increase the risks, the guidelines say.

Preventing clots Besides taking a stroll down the aisle during flights, doing calf exercises — including flexing and extending the ankles while seated — can help prevent clots, Kahn said. The guidelines recommend these precautions and use of special compression stockings only for people at increased risk for clots. They advise long-distance travelers against using aspirin or other blood thinners to prevent blood clots. — AP

Your New Lifestyle Begins Here

Mall area; the Department of Recreation & Parks will provide the transportation. The bus leaves on Thursday, May 3 at 9 a.m. and returns at 4 p.m. The fee is $45 per person, lunch on your own. For further information or to register, call (410) 313-7279 or (410) 313-7275.

May 15+

ESCAPE TO THE POCONOS A luxurious getaway for two nights at the Chateau Resort in Tannersville, Pa. begins when the motor coach leaves on Tuesday

May 15 at 7 a.m. and concludes when it returns at 7 p.m. on Thursday, May 17.

Designed and managed for today· s seniors at these locations:

The trip, sponsored by the Department of Recreation & Parks, includes a visit to the Mt. Airy Casino and lunch at Ehrhardt’s on Lake Wallenpaupack. Fees range from $425-$525, depending on room size. To register or for more information, call (410) 313-7279 or (410) 313-7275.

ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY

EASTERN SHORE

‡ Furnace Branch 410-761-4150

‡ Easton 410-770-3070

‡ Severna Park 410-544-3411

HARFORD COUNTY

This Department of Recreation & Parks-sponsored trip leaves at 9 a.m. on

BALTIMORE CITY

‡ Box Hill 410-515-6115

Thursday, May 24 and returns at 4 p.m. Fee is $69. To register or for more infor-

‡ Ashland Terrace 410-276-6440

‡ Bel Air 410-893-0064

‡ Coldspring 410-542-4400

HOWARD COUNTY

BALTIMORE COUNTY

‡ Colonial Landing 410-796-4399

‡ Catonsville 410-719-9464

‡ Columbia 410-381-1118

‡ Dundalk 410-288-5483

‡ Snowden River 410-290-0384

‡ Fullerton 410-663-0665

‡ Ellicott City 410-203-9501

‡ Miramar Landing 410-391-8375

‡ Ellicott City II 410-203-2096

‡ Randallstown 410-655-5673

‡ Emerson 301-483-3322

‡ Rosedale 410-866-1886

PRINCE GEORGE· S COUNTY

May 24

LUNCH ON THE ANNAPOLIS DOCK Carroll’s Creek Restaurant, located in the Annapolis City Marina, overlooks the dock area near the shops along historic streets.

mation, call (410) 313-7279 or (410) 313-7275.

‡ Taylor 410-663-0363

NOW! * Bladensburg 301-699-9785 *55 or Better ‡ Laurel 301-490-1526

‡ Woodlawn 410-281-1120

‡ Laurel II 301-490-9730

‡ Timothy House (Towson) 410-828-7185

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

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

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Style Arts &

Our cover story on Felicia Solá-Cartercontinues on page 29.

Maryland’s new Senior Idol from Elkridge Singing about hope A concert singer who has performed in Europe and around the United States — including in Hawaii, where she lived for several years — Evangelista took the senior singing honors with the inspirational song, “You Raise Me Up.” “I chose that song because it is about hope. I believe you can accomplish whatever you put your heart to and your feet under,” she said. What Evangelista has accomplished, so far, are performances with the Baltimore Opera touring company, the Honolulu Symphony and the Honolulu Opera, the San Francisco Children’s Opera and the Atlanta Opera companies. She was a co-founder and leading soprano of the Pocket Opera Players, which toured the states and appeared on TV. She also co-starred in a review in Hawaii called Polynesian Extravaganza with Jim Nabors, best known as Gomer Pyle on the “Andy Griffith Show.” Nabors later gained critical success as a singer of romantic songs. When Evangelista, a graduate of the Oberlin (Ohio) Conservatory of Music, was asked what part music plays in her life,

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She has sung opera, oratorio and musical theater songs at “perhaps thousands of concert appearances,” and interprets her repertoire in “12 or 13” languages. “I love all kinds of music,” Evangelista said, “folk songs, ethnic songs, children’s music. My efforts at country music didn’t work out too well. But maybe I could sing the new country sound,” she said. “I’m starting to sing jazz, also. I haven’t mastered scatsinging yet. But I think I have about 100 years left. I expect to live to about 150, with all the years filled with song.” The winner of Maryland’s sixth annual Senior Idol competition was generous in her praise of her contest rivals, including retired high school teacher Mary Ratcliffe of Columbia, who also represented Howard County. She also noted the guest See SENIOR IDOL, page 27

MaryAnn Evangelista performs “You Raise Me Up” in the April 4 Maryland Senior Idol contest. She placed first, winning from among singers selected from county-level competitions throughout Maryland.

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she answered, “Music is my life. It fills my heart with joy to sing. I sing with my soul. I love to share what I do.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF MNCPPC

By Robert Friedman MaryAnn Evangelista, who teaches voice and piano in Elkridge, won kudos for her own vocal expression when she was named this year’s Maryland Senior Idol. The attractive 63-year-old lyric soprano, a Howard County resident for the past 23 years, was judged best of 16 contestants who had been selected from auditions conducted throughout the state. The finals were held at the Bowie Center for the Performing Arts on April 4. “It was just thrilling to win,” said Evangelista, who remembers feeling similar joy when she was selected earlier in her career as a finalist in the Metropolitan Opera and San Francisco Opera auditions. “I always compete with my heart and soul, and I do it because I love to sing,” she said. As the winner of the competition, Evangelista received a crystal trophy, a gift basket, and gift cards and cash worth about $250, she said. Evangelista, a native of Washington state, is married to Paul Evangelista, a retired Army sargeant major, and they have a son who is a Navy SEAL.

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

Senior Idol From page 26 performance of Sylma Gottlieb, a fellow voice teacher in Bowie. Gottlieb, who is 89, sang Gershwin’s “Summertime” with beauty and gusto, Evangelista said.

Adding a lovely note — or notes — to Gottlieb’s performance was the harp accompaniment of Mary Fitzgerald, the retired harpist of the Navy band assigned to play at the White House. A record crowd of over 700 people attended the finals in Bowie.

BEACON BITS

Apr. 19+

ART GALLERY TOURS A gallery tour series will visit a variety of locations in the Greater

Baltimore region, Montgomery County and Carroll County this spring with departures from the Columbia Arts Center, 6100 Foreland Garth, Columbia. The first

BEACON BITS

trip will be on Thursday, April 19 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and will explore galleries

May 16

in the Greater Baltimore area. The fee is $40 per trip. For further information,

SENIOR CHOIR CONCERT Bain Center’s Howard Community College Senior Choir will present an hour-long concert on Wednesday, May 16 starting at 11

visit www.columbiaartscenter.org or call (410) 730-0075.

a.m. on Wednesday, May 16 at the Bain Center, 5470 Ruth Keeton Way, Columbia. There is no charge, but seats should be reserved in advance by calling (410) 313-7213.

Apr. 21

PLANT A TREE FOR EARTH DAY Bring family and friends to celebrate Earth Day in Howard County

Columbia Pro Cantare COLUMBIA PRO CANTARE 35th ANNIVERSARY SEASON

JAZZ with The Eric Mintel Quartet Choral and instrumental works

by planting a tree on Saturday, April 21 in West Friendship Park, 12985 Frederick Rd., West Friendship. Inclement weather date is Saturday, April 28. To sign up for a park site or for additional information, call (410) 313-4624.

May 5

Brubeck & Mintel Saturday, May 5, 2012, 8 PM Jim Rouse Theatre at Wilde Lake

FLEA MARKET AND CRAFT SHOW The Laurel Senior Friendship Club is sponsoring a flea market and craft show on Saturday, May 5 from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the

Boys & Girls Club (Old Phelps Center), 701 Montgomery St. in Laurel. For further information or to rent a table, contact Joan Norris at (301) 490-6876.

June 4+

COLLEGE FOR A WEEK Four days of “learning for the love of it” classes for seniors will be held on the Howard Community College campus starting Monday,

June 4 from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. with a course on human origins and earliest civilizations. The remainder of the week features “Pearl Harbor” on Tuesday, June 5.; “The Chesapeake, Then and Now” on Wednesday, June 6 p.m.; and “Twentieth Century American Literature: The American Dream” on Thursday, June 7. All classes meet from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Tuition for the series is $18 for persons up to 59 years of age, $15 for those ages 60 and older. The campus is located at 10901 Little Patuxent Pkwy, Columbia. For further information and to register, call (410) 313-7279 or (410) 313-7275.