February 2025 | Baltimore Beacon

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Baltimore-born Robert Neal Marshall is an actor, director, producer, playwright and documentary filmmaker. Marshall’s near-death experience a dozen years ago reshaped his life and work.

restart of his body. After doctors brought him back, Marshall felt even more plugged into life.

“It’s like the volume of ever ything turned up my awareness of things in life — my respect for being here, my sense of duty and purpose,” Marshall said. “It’s the one-on-one conversations that I suddenly realized were more important.”

Born in Baltimore, Marshall has had a long career as a multi-faceted producer, writer and director. He has worked on two teams that have won Emmys and released four documentary films, including the 2015 film “Back from the Light,” about near-death experiences.

Though he’s always shared the stories of others in his films and plays, his neardeath experience deepened his need to listen to everyday people.

“I want to know their stories. It’s impor-

SHEALYN JAE PHOTOGRAPHY

When Marshall’s heart stopped beating, he got more than just a reset, reboot and

PHOTO COURTESY OF ROBERT NEAL MARSHALL

A new lease on life

FEBRUARY 2025

More than 125,000 readers throughout Greater Baltimore

Producer gets a new shot at life

By Sophia Lim One Friday morning 12 years ago, Robert Neal Marshall paced back and forth in his living room, feeling that something was wrong with his body. Phone in hand, he wondered if he should call 911. Despite that hesitation, he made the call.

“That Friday for me on August 3 of 2013 was like any other day. I had no idea that that could have been my last day on this planet,” Marshall, now 64, recalled in an interview with the Beacon.

Marshall was having a heart attack, a “widow-maker,” experiencing total blockage of the heart’s biggest artery.

Doctors later told him he probably had only a two-minute window to make that lifesaving call.

“My heart just started quivering like Jell-O. And from that moment, you’re dead. There’s nothing pumping,” he said.

Thankfully, he was able to make it to an ambulance, where paramedics used a defibrillator and conducted CPR. But for 90 seconds, Marshall had no heartbeat.

“A minute and a half without breathing, without your heartbeat, without anything, is a long time,” he said.

During that time, Marshall had what’s known as a near-death experience. Others who have come close to death have reported sensing an entity of light and beauty. Marshall felt the presence of his beloved grandmother.

“It was this incredible entity of light and electric smoke and energy…But the moment the smoke, the light, touched me, I knew it was my maternal grandmother,” Marshall said.

Marshall felt that his grandmother, who he was very close to, greeted him and expressed her love for him, reminding him of an earlier time in his life. He also sensed other beings nearby.

“It was very powerful for me,” Marshall said. “It would have been amazing to have conversations with them and ask questions and talk with them. Maybe there’s a part of us that’s always on the other side — this thread between us — and we’re just always communicating. I don’t know.”

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tant that I make people feel wanted, loved and needed. It’s important that I do that now; I feel a greater sense of it,” Marshall said.

“We are introduced to people constantly in our lives. What I have learned as I’ve gotten older is to try to pay more attention, to give it value, to actually listen.”

As it turns out, caring about other people can be contagious.

“There are a lot of people that have incredibly good hearts, that are beautiful souls, that if we just listen to their stories — if we just let them in — we not only can be better people, but we can be better for other people and then teach other people to then continue that on,” Marshall said.

LAW & MONEY 12 k Should you do your own taxes? k How to help out adult children

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ARTS & STYLE

Vagabond Players deliver madcap mayhem in Room Service, a Groucho Marx classic page 18

FITNESS & HEAL TH 4 k Some good drug side effects k Tips to improve memory

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Learning how to think Publisher Stuart Rosenthal is taking a sab- ing — exercising your brain and enhancbatical this month. His column will return in ing your ability to think and present your March. thoughts to others.

All through school we are Let’s say Johnny took an required to write. Writing English Lit class. He was remakes us think. Getting us to quired to write an article write clearly is a significant about Hamlet. He went to a goal of education. frat party instead of doing the There are now artificial inassignment. telligence (AI) programs that No matter. He turned on can create stories, novels, his laptop, opened one of his non-fictional books, answers three AI writing apps, and to exams, blogs and whatever typed in Hamlet, Shakeelse you want to write. speare, critical essay, 500 They can generate ideas, AS I SEE IT words, use Johnny’s style. edit and proofread. Even By Ted Meyerson Before he could get over to though they are relatively new, the printer, the essay came they are pretty good. Imagine how much bet- out double spaced and printed on both ter they will be in the next couple of years. sides. He turned in the paper and got an A It all sounds wonderful, except it leaves on the assignment. out what you gain by doing your own writJohnny couldn’t participate in the class

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

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

Publisher/Editor – Stuart P. Rosenthal President/Associate Publisher – Judith K. Rosenthal Executive Vice President – Gordon Hasenei Managing Editor – Margaret Foster Art Director – Kyle Gregory Vice President of Operations – Roger King Advertising Representatives – Steve Levin, M.K. Phillips, Alan Spiegel

discussion because he hadn’t read the play. Still, he passed the course because the essay was so good.

Johnny got through most of his college classes using AI to do his homework. His laptop passed more courses than he did.

He graduated — but wasn’t educated.

Johnny got a job. He was enthusiastic and eager. He bought a new, more powerful laptop and loaded in advanced AI writing programs.

Johnny’s boss called a meeting. Everyone at the conference table was as dependent on AI as Johnny. Even the boss used an AI program to research solutions to the company’s problems.

The issue under discussion was clear.

Each person in the meeting put in some key words and was confident that the app would find a solution to the company crisis. It didn’t work.

Even though the AI programs could recover everything that had ever been posted on the internet, they couldn’t differentiate between good, bad, true or false.

They couldn’t think. They lacked judgment.

Some of the solutions they came up with had proven disastrous for other companies. Other solutions were downright weird.

Nobody at the table had gotten out of education what education is supposed to offer — an enhanced ability to think and present ideas. I wonder if the company could survive with a laptop and computer app acting as CEO? Taken to its logical conclusion, if AI becomes dominant and permissible, we might end up with smart laptops and nonthinking humans. Seems to me, we have enough non-thinking humans already.

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

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

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

Dear Editor: Re: your November article on blurry vision, I had difficulty reading with my left eye. Very bright light helped, and I needed reading glasses.

My ophthalmologist told me that people who had cataract surgery would often have wrinkles in the sack that held [their] interocular lens. A five-minute laser treatment put a hole in the sack, and my vision improved significantly.

Now I do not need a bright light or glasses.

Donald W. Vierimaa Via email Dear Editor: I normally enjoy the Beacon for its lively articles, but I was struck hard when reading the November Letter to the Editor that you allowed to be published. The letter writer, Richard Todd, totally tears down a woman, Joan Vassos, who was interviewed about her life. She was chosen to be the “Golden Bachelorette.” Mr. Todd rips into her “ego” and says that she and others “think the world revolves around them” and that we need “a more grown up role model.”

It’s unacceptable to publish such a harsh attack on Ms. Vassos. It never should have been printed. It left a sour note in my heart. She dealt with cancer

and other things and this did not seem fair.

Thank you for listening and I hope this does not happen again. People deserve respect. Especially older people who take risks like Ms. Vassos.

Martine Palmiter Via email Dear Editor: I appreciated your column and memory of the “husky” department in children’s clothing stores (From the Publisher, January 2025). I share a similar memory. Unfortunately, it took me 40+ years to go from husky to a shopper in the “regular” section of the department store.

Glenn Easton Clarksburg, MD Dear Editor: As invaluable as all the new technology is, I have found a rather disconcerting, albeit unintentional, adverse effect when I telephone someone rather than text.

Most of the time the individual who I call invariably sounds annoyed.

I’m always taken aback by such a response because I can’t help wonder why anyone would answer their phone if they are not fully available to do so. That’s why there is voice mail!

Dale Ingrid Barnhard Via email

Assistant Editor – Ana Preger Hart Editorial Intern – Tori Cleveland

The Beacon, P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915 (410) 248-9101 • Email: info@thebeaconnewspapers.com Submissions: The Beacon welcomes reader contributions. Deadline for editorial is the 1st of the month preceding the month of publication. Deadline for ads is the 1st of the month preceding the month of publication. See page 23 for classified advertising details. Please mail or email all submissions.

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Trust the eH Ho ome Care Expert x ert With T To om mS Sm Smith, Regional Manager, Manage Business Dev ve v e ment Fam elopment, Family & Nur Nursing rsing Carre e

Fle exibility to o Address Address Changing Cha Ne eeds A

long a family’s care journey, lo y, circumstances can change, and clients and families may ay need to reassess their needs and consider whether it’s time fo for additional caregiver support, u either on a short-term or long-term basis.

At Famil amily & N Nu ursing Care, our Clien ntt Servi vices Manage gers are here to engaagge w wiith ccllien ntts aan nd faamil milies, prov oviding insiggh ht aan nd assist stan ance around allll car are decisions. K Keelly ly Saallb, Vice Presiden ntt, Clien ntt Servi vices, and K Keelly ly A An nn Sharp r and Nat atal alie Blicckkman an, Directors of Clien ntt Servi vices, shar ared ttheir experiences in guiding clien l ntts aan nd families througgh h aarrangi ging addiitional al car areggiiveer ssu upport.

Additional Support for Short-T Term Needs “It’s’s important fo for our clients and families to understand that we are flexible and able to provide support u beyond what w a is originally scheduled,,” says Salb. The team identified various situations that a could trigger a need fo for additional short-term caregiver support: • Va Vacation/trav avel – Caregivers can travel with families to care for clients so everyone can relax and en njjoy their time together.

• Ev Events (w weddings, reunions, etc.)

– Caregiv ivers can help l clients ge get read dyy and assist s them at at even nts.

• Hospital/R Reehaab b Staayy – Caregivers can offe ffer respite to family members by stay aying wi with love ved ones in the hospital, eve ven overnigght, and help wi with postdischarge recup u eraation at at home.

• Discharge/R Reecov overy ry Support u rt – Caregiv ivers can accompany m ny clients home fr from the t hospit ital a or rehab, and prov oviide addiittional sup upport while they recup uperaatte at at home.

• Respite care re – Caregiv ivers can

provi vide fill-iin sup upport w wh hile a family caregive ver is aaway way or needs a break.

• Emergency/back-up care – Caregivers can fill in wh when a family caregiver has an emergency. y.

• Moving support – Caregivers can assist clients in acclimating to new home environments, including assisted living or memory care.

has demen nttia, set u up p care fo for Ron to giv ive her some respit ite.

After Pam had an emergency hospitalization, additional caregivers were quickl kly reffeerred to provide Ron wi with 24-hour support until Pam could resume her responsibilities. When Pam was discharged and recovering, the caregivers continued to provide car e fo for both Pam and Ron until Consistent A Ad dditional Pam regained her strength.

Support “Family & Nu Nursing Care’s client Client Servi vices Managers ffo orm strong relat ationshiips wi with clients and services helped us seamlessly change our care situation a as our keep close tabs on their changing needs shifted,,” Pam said. needs. They also rely on fe feedback from caregivers wh who observe Communication is Key changes in clients’ conditions.

Blicckkman em mphasizes that at Changes that may necessitate communicat ation is ke key to a successffu ul additional Caregiver support relat e ationsshiip p wi with yo your Clien ntt include: Servi vices Manager. “We We are here to • Balance issues provi vide the besst out utcomes fo for cl clients.

• Conffu usion W hat a t eve v er qu q ues stions you hav a v e, just s • Depression • Poor sleep • Risk fo for wandering • Hygiene issues • Worsening medical conditions • Forgetting to take medications a

reach out ut and d ask,,” she s say ays.

Family & N Nursing Care maintains relat ationshipss with area senior living comm munities, aging liffee care profe fessiionals, rehabilitation facilities and d hospitals, and can help w with gu uidance and resources for clients an nd families.

From the responsiveness r and flexibility of the Client Services team to the hig h h-q qu uality, y, sincere and enthusiaastic caregivers, we offe ffer the sup pport, empathy a and respect everyy family needs to navigate theiir care journey. y.

Couple Care Sharp say ays clients using Family & Nursing Care services have found value in adding couple care services at a lower raate than fo for two individual clients.

“For example, if a Caregiv iver is provi viding servi vices ffo or a cclient, and the clien nt’s spouse needs careggiiver sup upport too, we can set u up p a coup uple care plan,,” sshe say ays. Coup uple care is also aavvailable ffo or any ny two wo indivi viduals livi ving in the same household.

Family & Nursing Care in Action A client named Pam, primary careggive ver fo for her husband Ron, wh who

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Fitness &

BARLEY BASICS Add whole grain barley to your diet to lower your cholesterol and blood sugar IT’S NOT ALL IN YOUR HEAD Is your condition really psychosomatic?

Or just not yet well understood?

LONG COVID STUDY University of Maryland seeks people who are still battling fatigue after Covid CATCH A FEW WINKS There are better (and worse) ways to nap during the day. Experts offer advice

There’s a good side to drug side effects

By Robert H. Shmerling, M.D. Drug side effects are common and often quite troublesome.

Major side effects, such as severe or even life-threatening allergic reactions, require immediate treatment and discontinuation of the drug. More minor symptoms may be tolerable when weighed against drug benefits.

And sometimes, these go away on their own as the body gets used to the drug.

But there’s another type of side effect you hear much less about: ones that are beneficial. Though uncommon, they’re worth keeping in mind when you’re starting a new medicine.

Aren’t all side effects bad?

The term side effect is usually assumed to be a bad thing. And that’s typically true.

But that leaves out the “good” side effects.

Relatively little is published on this, so it’s not clear how common they are. But four notable examples include: • Minoxidil (Rogaine, Gainextra, other brands). Developed in the 1970s for high blood pressure, this drug also increased hair growth in study subjects.

What was initially considered a bothersome side effect eventually became its primary use: topical forms of this drug are commonly used to treat hair loss.

• Diphenhydramine (Benadr yl or

generic versions). This common treatment for allergic conditions has the side effect of drowsiness.

For adults with allergy issues and trouble sleeping, the sedative effect can be helpful. However, regular, long-term use of diphenhydramine is not recommended, as it may increase the risk of dementia.

• Sildenafil (Viagra or generic versions).

Originally developed as a treatment for high blood pressure and angina, it didn’t take long for male users to realize the drug could trigger erections within 30 to 60 minutes.

The makers of sildenafil recognized that under the right circumstances, this could be a highly beneficial side effect. In 1998 it was approved as a treatment for erectile dysfunction.

• Semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus). This drug was developed to treat diabetes, but early users noticed reduced appetite and significant weight loss. Now, several formulations of these related drugs are approved for diabetes and/or weight loss.

In the best study I’ve read on the topic, researchers found more than 450 reports of serendipitous beneficial effects of various drugs since 1991. And that may be an underestimation, since report forms did not specifically ask for or label this type of side effect, according to the study authors.

Repurposing some drugs While the discovery of helpful drugs can arise unexpectedly, drug developers are increasingly using a more intentional approach: using side effect profiles to look for new uses.

For example: • A drug reported to cause reduced sweating as a side effect may be effective for hyperhidrosis, a condition marked by excessive sweating.

• Drugs reported to cause low blood pressure as a side effect might be effective treatments for high blood pressure (hypertension).

• New treatments for breast cancer may include older medicines that have a similar side effect profile as known anti-cancer drugs.

The availability of large side effect registries has made this method of identifying drugs for repurposing a more realistic option. So even negative side effects can have a silver lining.

Bad side effects and nocebos While side effects can be positive, most are not. Medication side effects are a common reason people give for not taking prescribed drugs regularly. And adverse reactions to medicines prompt up to 8% of hospital admissions, according to one analysis.

To make matters worse, in some cases the expectation of side effects seems to make them more likely to occur.

Called the nocebo effect, it increases the chances of experiencing a negative side effect and seems due, at least in part, to expectations.

Contrast this with the placebo effect, where a sugar pill or another inactive treatment can lead to benefit.

The bottom line Many people avoid taking medications because they fear possible side effects.

That’s understandable.

But not taking a medication can mean missing out on its benefits. And anticipation or expectation of side effects can increase the chances you’ll have them.

So, while it’s important to be aware of the most common side effects caused by the medicines you take, it’s also important not to overestimate your chances of experiencing them.

And remember, there’s always a chance you’ll have a side effect you actually welcome.

Robert H. Shmerling, MD, is a senior faculty editor and an Editorial Advisory Board member for Harvard Health Publishing. © 2024 Harvard University. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Key strategies to help improve memory

By Howard LeWine, M.D. Q: I am experiencing more minor memor y lapses. What can I do to help my memor y?

A: Keeping the brain as healthy as possible might help delay memory issues and other age-related brain changes.

The best way to do that is by living a healthy lifestyle: exercising regularly (at least 150 minutes per week of moderateintensity exercise, like brisk walking), giving yourself the opportunity to sleep seven to nine hours per night, eating a Mediterranean-style diet, not smoking, limiting alcohol use, managing stress, socializing, and learning new things.

These habits work together to help create new connections between brain cells and to maintain existing ones, which keeps thinking and memory sharp.

A recent large study zeroed in on the po-

tent influence a healthy lifestyle exerts on memory maintenance, even in older adults with a genetic risk for Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form of dementia.

The study, published by The BMJ, involved more than 29,000 people in China without dementia (average age 72). Participants initially underwent cognitive testing, as well as genetic testing for a variant of the APOE gene, APOE4, which is known to raise the risk for Alzheimer’s.

Participants also reported how stringently they stuck to six good lifestyle habits: eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, not smoking, not drinking alcohol, being socially active, and engaging in brain-challenging activities.

Over the next 10 years, participants periodically reported their lifestyle habits and had additional cognitive tests.

By the study’s end, people who stuck

with at least four healthy habits exhibited significantly slower memory decline than those who didn’t practice any healthy habits — and this was true even among participants with the Alzheimer’s-related gene.

To improve memor y In addition, you can help keep your memory in good shape by practicing certain habits.

For learning new information: Pay attention and put effort into the learning process. You can’t effectively learn new information when you multitask. If someone is talking to you while you’re checking your email or watching TV out of the corner of your eye, you’re not likely to remember what they said.

Pay attention, write down the information, say it out loud, or repeat it back to the person.

For memor y retrieval: Relax and try

to go back in your mind to the time and place when you formed the memory.

Think about the senses that were engaged at the time.

What did you see, hear, smell, taste or touch? What were you feeling at the time?

The brain ties those perceptions to memories as a way to help you retrieve them later.

For overall sharpness: Make your brain work harder. Challenge it with exercises such as crossword puzzles.

Studies have shown that doing moderately difficult cognitive tasks is better for your brain than doing easy tasks.

Howard LeWine, M.D., is an internist at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston and assistant professor at Harvard Medical School. For additional consumer health information, visit health.harvard.edu. © 2024 Harvard University. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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BALTIMORE BEACON — FEBRUARY 2025

Think positively about aging for long life

By Howard LeWine, M.D. People who tend to be more positive, optimistic and energetic as they get older are more likely to live longer and have healthier lives than those with negative thoughts about aging.

A study published in February 2022 in JAMA Network Open found that the people with the highest satisfaction with aging had a 43% lower risk of dying from any cause compared to those who were the least satisfied.

The study also found that people more satisfied with the aging process had a lower risk for diabetes, stroke, cancer and heart disease. They also had better cognitive functioning and were less lonely and depressed.

Here are some ways to help you keep a

younger mind and body.

Reduce stress and anxiety. Adopt practices that help you maximize positive emotions and reduce negative ones, such as setting aside time for meditation, performing relaxation breathing exercises, and spending some quiet time each day expressing gratitude.

Have a sense of purpose. A strong sense of purpose means continuing to pursue goals and to feel life is worthwhile. Explore interests centered on self-development, growth, and connecting with others.

For example, learn an instrument or a language, volunteer for a cause you support, mentor a young person, or take college classes in subjects that stimulate your mind.

Stay connected. Socializing keeps our

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If you are mourning the death of a spouse or life partner, you’re not

minds active and engaged. Studies also show that personal connections help curb feelings of low self-esteem that dampen a positive mindset.

You might find it more natural to bond over a shared activity or interest, so consider joining a walking group, golf or bowling league, card or chess club, or service club.

Another option is to create your own “pod” — a small, intimate group you interact with regularly. Schedule weekly, bimonthly or monthly meetups with friends — in person or via Zoom or a conference call.

Challenge yourself. Find a physical challenge that you can realistically complete, create a plan of execution, and then work to meet that goal.

For example, train for a 5K race, hike a trail, complete a series of boot camp classes, or walk a mile daily for a month. Regular exercise builds confidence in your ability to be active, and setting a challenge helps you experience a feeling of accomplishment. Both can make you feel more youthful.

Ageism — the socially pervasive idea that you are too old to do certain activities — can put a damper on your mindset. It can be tough to overcome, but constantly remind yourself that your age does not dictate whether or not you have the necessary ability, skills or desire to succeed at something. © 2024 Harvard University. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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Feb. 11, then March 11. Registration is required; call 1-888-501-7077 or email griefinfo@chesapeakelifecenter.org. For a complete list of in-person and virtual support groups organized by Chesapeake Life Center, a Hospice of the Chesapeake program service, visit hospicechesapeake.org.

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Clinical Health Studies

A place of caring Each assisted livingg resident re enjoys three chef-prepared meals per day, ho housekeeping and laundryy services, se medication administration, help with daily tasks an and more—always by reques quest, and all included in a reasonable monthly fee. Eachh re resi s dent also has access too all of the Pickersgilll amenities.

Our assisted liv ivin ingg residences include a private, priv full bath, and residents are encouraged to decoraate their homes as they wish. This is a lifestyle dedicated to independence and assured ed by a caring, professional fessional al sta staff. sttaff.

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Sweet chili chicken with zucchini barley

Sweet Chili Chicken Serves 2 Ingredients: ¼ cup low-sugar apricot spread or jam ¼ cup chopped walnuts ¼ cup sweet chili sauce 2 teaspoons canola oil

¾ pound boneless, skinless chicken breast Directions: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix jam, walnuts and chili sauce together in a small bowl.

Heat oil in a nonstick skillet over medium high heat. Add the chicken and brown 2 minutes. Turn chicken over and brown the second side 2 minutes. Remove from heat.

Spoon sauce mixture on top of the chicken. Cover the skillet with foil or lid and place in the oven for 10 minutes. Remove from oven. A meat thermometer should read 160 degrees. Divide in half and place on two dinner plates.

Per serving: 431 calories (38 percent from fat), 18.2 g fat (1.8 g saturated, 6.4 g monounsaturated), 126 mg cholesterol, 42 g protein, 22 g carbohydrates, 1.1 g fiber, 558 mg sodium.

Zucchini and Barley Serves 2 Ingredients: 1 cup fat-free, no-salt-added chicken broth ½ cup quick-cooking barley ½ pound zucchini cut into 1-inch pieces, about 2 cups 2 teaspoons canola oil

The Independent Lifestyle You Deserve in Cockeysville!

PHOTO COURTESY OF TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY

By Linda Gassenheimer Here’s a way to keep boneless, skinless chicken breasts moist and tasty.

I brown the chicken in a skillet, cover with a sweet chili sauce and walnuts, then finish the cooking in the oven. That gives the chicken a nice crust, and the steam from the covered skillet keeps the chicken moist.

I wanted to make barley for a side dish and created a way to make it in the microwave with zucchini. It turns out the same as if you made it on the stove but is much quicker and easier.

Helpful hints: Look for sweet chili sauce in the market. If unavailable, see recipe below. Be sure the skillet is well covered when placed in the oven.

Shopping list: Buy ¾ pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, 1 jar low-sugar apricot spread or jam, 1 container walnuts, 1 bottle sweet chili sauce, 1 carton fat-free, no-salt-added chicken broth, 1 box quickcooking barley, ½ pound zucchini. Staples: canola oil, salt and black peppercorns.

A sweet chili sauce keeps chicken breasts from drying out, and hearty barley makes an easy side dish.

Salt and freshly ground black pepper Directions: Place chicken broth and quick cooking barley in a large, microwave-safe bowl.

Cover the bowl with a plate or plastic wrap.

Microwave on high for 5 minutes.

Remove bowl from microwave and add the zucchini. Cover the bowl with the plate and microwave 5 more minutes. Remove from the microwave and keep the cover on the bowl until ready to serve.

Add oil and salt and pepper to taste and serve with the chicken.

Per serving: 242 calories (20 percent from fat), 5.5 g fat (0.6 g saturated, 2.9 g

monounsaturated), no cholesterol, 7.5 g protein, 42.9 g carbohydrates, 9 g fiber, 32 mg sodium.

To make sweet chili sauce Add 1 tablespoon sugar or honey to ¼ cup bottled chili sauce such as Heinz Chili Sauce or a thick chili sauce.

Linda Gassenheimer is the author of more than 30 cookbooks, including her newest, The 12-Week Diabetes Cookbook.

Listen to Linda on WDNA.org and all major podcast sites. Email her at Linda@DinnerInMinutes.com. © 2024 Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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BALTIMORE BEACON — FEBRUARY 2025

Barley is a healthy, high-fiber whole grain

By Lori Zanteson Barley, as a staple, is anything but basic.

Native to Ethiopia and Southeast Asia, barley has been cultivated for more than 10,000 years. Since ancient times, it has been used for food — both human and animal — as well as tea, alcoholic beverages, medicine, and even as a standard of measurement.

These days, we’r e most likely to enjoy our barley in a meal of hearty stew or soup, or as an ingredient in a glass of beer. But there are good reasons to reignite our relationship with this healthful and tasty whole grain.

The facts Barley (Hordeum vulgare), a cereal grain, is the fourth largest grain crop in the world after wheat, rice and corn, but only 2% is produced for food products.

Most is grown for animal feed and malt,

which is used to produce beer.

The whole grain, hulled barley is the most nutritious because it retains the bran. However, pearled barley, whose bran is removed, is most common.

Both forms are nutrient-dense and high in f i b e r. O n e c u p o f cooked pearled barley serves up 24 percent DV (DV=Daily Value, based on 2,000 calories/day) of heart-healthy dietary fiber and about 20% DV of the minerals manganese and selenium.

The findings A source of soluble fiber, barley has been shown to lower cholesterol. A study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition showed significantly lower total and LDL (“bad”) cholesterol levels after diets low, medium or high in soluble fiber from barley — higher soluble fiber diets had

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more notable reductions in cholesterol.

Beta-glucan, barley’s soluble fiber, also slows glucose absorption, which may lower the risk of Type 2 diabetes.

According to a study published in Clinical Nutrition Research, Type 2 diabetes patients who ate white rice mixed with 50% high beta-glucan barley had significantly improved post-meal blood glucose levels and insulin resistance versus those who ate white rice without barley.

The finer points Hulled, pearled and flaked barley are available packaged and in bulk containers.

Additional types, including barley grits, quick barley and barley flour, are more

likely found in health-food stores.

Barley stores best in airtight containers, where it should keep six to nine months (several months longer if refrigerated).

Combine with water, boil, cover and simmer until the liquid is absorbed and the grains are soft. From here, the possibilities are endless — add to soups, salads, vegetable dishes; enjoy as a breakfast cereal topped with fruit, or served in creamy risotto style.

Reprinted with permission from Environmental Nutrition, a monthly publication of Belvoir Media Group, LLC, 1-800829-5384, EnvironmentalNutrition.com. © 2024 Belvoir Media Group. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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FEBRUARY 2025 — BALTIMORE BEACON

Is it all in your head, or not identified yet?

The body and mind are intricately connected, and sometimes, this connection can lead to physical symptoms driven by emotional stress.

These are known as psychosomatic disorders, and they demonstrate just how powerful stress, unresolved trauma and emotions can be in affecting our physical health.

However, not all unexplained symptoms fall into this category. Some are the result of hard-to-diagnose medical conditions that science hasn’t fully understood yet.

Let’s explore psychosomatic disorders, their causes, and how they differ from illnesses that defy diagnosis.

Psychosomatic disorders Psychosomatic disorders occur when

emotional factors like stress and anxiety trigger or worsen physical symptoms.

These symptoms are real — not “all in your head” — but their root cause lies in how your brain and body interact.

These may include: • Chest pain from anxiety (even with a healthy heart) right before a test • A rash that flares during an argument • Migraines triggered by chronic stress • Your heart beating out of your chest before public speaking Stress activates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, increasing cortisol and adrenaline. Over time, this state of hyperarousal can worsen conditions like migraines, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and fibromyalgia.

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What doctor s may not know

Advocate for your self

Not every unexplained symptom is psyPsychosomatic disorders include real chosomatic. Some conditions, symptoms that are linked to like multiple sclerosis (MS), the mind-body connection. were nearly impossible to diagHard-to-diagnose conditions nose before MRI technology bealso have real symptoms came available to detect brain without a clear explanation, and spinal lesions. In such often due to science’s limitacases, the problem wasn’t psytions. chosomatic; it simply hadn’t Both deserve empathy, so I been uncovered yet. want to assure you that your Conditions like chronic faexperience is valid, and that tigue syndrome or some neuhealing starts with being rological disorders involve DEAR heard and supported. real symptoms that may stem PHARMACIST Living with unexplained from multiple, complex factors By Suzy Cohen symptoms can feel lonely and science hasn’t fully mapped. exhausting. Whether your Doctors often rely on their specialty’s condition stems from psychosomatic fac“toolbox,” which can limit their diagnostic tors or a hard-to-diagnose illness, your perspectives. For example, a Lyme special- jour ney matters. Stay curious, stay ist might diagnose Lyme disease even with strong, and never stop advocating for inconclusive results, while a rheumatolo- yourself! gist may label borderline symptoms as auIf you’re interested in a deeper dive into toimmune disease. this topic, I’ve written a longer, more comThis isn’t to suggest doctors are wrong; prehensive blog on my website at suzycothey’re often working with the best infor- hen.com. mation they have. But as a patient, being Suzy Cohen is a registered pharmacist and your own advocate and seeking multiple author of The 24-Hour Pharmacist and Real opinions is essential.

Solutions from Head to Toe.

BEACON BITS

Feb. 8

SLEEP AND BRAIN HEALTH DISCUSSION This free discussion, facilitated b y Dr. Matthew J. Reid, PhD, of

Johns Hopkins University, explores the impact of sleep on brain health and offers practical, evidence-based strategies to improve sleep and cognition. T o participate, visit Keswick, 700 W est 40th St., Baltimore, or join remotely on W ed., Feb. 5 from 2 to 3 p.m. This event is free, but you must register by calling (410) 662-4363 on weekdays between 9 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

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BALTIMORE BEACON — FEBRUARY 2025

Health Studies

9

INFORMATION ON AREA CLINICAL TRIALS

Tired after Covid? A healthy diet could help

By Margaret Foster Covid affects people in different ways.

For some it’s fatal, while others experience no symptoms at all. Others struggle with autoimmune conditions and fatigue months after the infection has resolved — a condition known as long Covid.

Now, there’s a new study for people over 50 who have felt tired for months after having Covid.

The University of Maryland, with funding from the National Institute on Aging, aims “to study whether improving your diet toward a healthy U.S.-style diet, along with some nutritional supplements, can reduce persistent fatigue symptoms following Covid,” said Dr. Galya Bigman, PhD, the study’s principal investigator.

Four months from home The study requires only two in-person vis-

its to the University of Maryland’s clinic at 22 S. Greene Street in downtown Baltimore.

Parking vouchers will be provided, and in some cases, Lyft services may be available.

Once enrolled, participants will be randomly placed in either the special diet group or the healthy aging group. In both groups, participants will attend weekly 30to 60-minute virtual meetings for four months to learn about diet or healthy aging.

Participants in the diet group will also have eight one-on-one virtual meetings with a dietitian, who will build a personalized food plan and ensure they stay on track.

After the study, both groups will have free access to the other program’s content and course materials.

At the start and end of the four months, Dr. Bigman’s team will do a comprehensive screening of participants’ nutritional

BEACON BITS

Ongoing MEMORY SCREENINGS

status and needs by measuring their body fat, muscle mass and function, and body calorie expenditure. Participants will also take surveys on their diet, sleep behaviors, level of fatigue and quality of life.

“We will also take some blood tests to see if there’s any relationship between certain nutritional biomarkers and fatigue to better understand the science behind how diet might alleviate Covid symptoms,” she added.

To track their progress, participants will

complete online surveys and track their food intake every other week. Compensation is provided at the end of the study.

The study teaches people “simple, healthy eating principles in a friendly, engaging way,” Dr. Bigman said. “Participants will learn about healthy aging and acquire practical tools to support healthier eating in their daily lives.”

For more information, visit longcovidiet.com, email gbigman@som. umar yland.edu or call (512) 576-3823.

Paid Volunteers Needed!

This study aims to better understand the role of primary care visits in detecting hearing issues and service use among individuals with cognitive or memory concerns.

Who? • Older Adults with hearing difficulty and memory concerns • Care Partners who assist the above older adults What? Participate in a ~30 minute virtual interview Compensation? $25 per person

Interested?

Contact us at 301-405-7539 or hearingandhealth@umd.edu

Free memory screenings are available for adults concerned about

memory loss or experiencing warning signs of dementia. The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America offer s free screening appointments via smartphone, computer or tablet. You can schedule an appointment at bit.ly/memoryscreenings or by calling 1-866-232-8484.

Feb. 8

HANDS-ONLY CPR TRAINING Visit the P arkville Library on Sat., Feb. 8 to learn the lifesaving simple steps of hands-only CPR from the members of the Balti-

more County Fire Department. The training takes place at 9509 Harford Rd., Parkville, from 1 to 4 p.m. Registration isn’t required. F or more information, call (410) 887-5353.

BLOOD DONORS NEEDED

Ongoing The Red Cross is seeking blood donors, especially type O and platelet donors. To schedule an appointment, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

Improve Your Health with Personalized Exercise.

We are looking for older adults (65+) to participate in a research study on personalized exercise. Learn how a tailored exercise program can help you feel stronger and improve your health and well-being. You will be compensated for your time and participation upon successful completion of the study.

For more information, please scan the QR code, call 443-692-7169 or email mpathstudy@jh.edu Principal Investigator: Dr. Junxin Li - IRB # 00396390

Are you experiencing fatigue after COVID? Join our virtual nutrition study to learn if a certain diet may help reduce long-COVID symptoms.

Who Can Participate: • Age 50 or older • Tested positive for COVID-19 • Experiencing fatigue for at leat 3 months • Willing to make dietary changes for 4 months

Call to see if you qualify:

512-576-3823

or visit: longCOVIDiet.com

MPATH

Approved February 28, 2024

Cognition And Metabolism in Prediabetes (CAMPS) Study Are you 50 years or older?

Are you relatively healthy, without a diabetes diagnosis?

If so, you may be eligible for a new research study in which you learn about your daily blood sugar fluctuations and cognitive abilities.

Receive $100 for participating.

For information call 410-605-7179.

Mention “CAMPS”

10

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FEBRUARY 2025 — BALTIMORE BEACON

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BALTIMORE BEACON — FEBRUARY 2025

11

Is there a wrong way, or time, to take a nap?

By Tiffany Casper Dear Mayo Clinic: I am retired, and although I generally enjoy less hectic days now, I keep busy.

Part of my routine includes trying to squeeze in a nap on most afternoons. My wife tells me I’m doing it wrong because I often wake up groggy. Is there a wrong way — or time — to nap?

A: Closing your eyes for a few minutes during your busy day may seem like a good idea. It can refresh and recharge you.

Is there a wrong way to nap? Only if the naps cause negative effects on other aspects of your life.

For your daily nap routine, it’s important to consider the time of day and length of time you nap, as these can provide benefits or create problems.

On the plus side, a nap can improve your mood, speed your reaction time, improve your memory, reduce fatigue and increase your alertness. A regular nap can make your afternoon more productive.

There are some potential drawbacks of napping every day. First is sleep inertia.

That’s the temporary grogginess and feeling disoriented after a nap. This can become a problem if you have places to be or tasks to complete after you wake up from your nap.

Regular naps can interfere with your nighttime sleep routine, too, especially if your naps are too long or close to bedtime. If you experience insomnia or poor sleep quality at night, napping may worsen these problems. Short naps are the best when trying to avoid interference with nighttime sleep.

Follow these four tips to get the most out of your naps: • Set aside an allotted amount of time. If you wake up feeling groggy after a nap, you’re sleeping too long. The ideal nap length is between 15 and 30 minutes.

If you want to make naps a part of your daily routine, have a planned time of day and length of time to keep your schedule on track.

• Plan to take naps in the afternoon. The ideal time to nap is around 2 or 3 p.m. This is because you are likely to experience a lower level of alertness or sleepiness following lunch.

You’re also more likely to avoid interference with nighttime sleep if you nap around this time. However, some people may adjust their napping times to fit their work or school schedules.

• Create a tranquil environment.

Some people struggle to sleep during the day, but there are actions you can take to help you become more relaxed.

Eliminate distractions when napping.

Turn off any screens, including your phone. Find a quiet space with minimal light. Adjusting the room temperature to what is comfortable for you also can make your space more relaxing.

• Give yourself time to wake up.

It’s normal to wake up a little groggy after a nap, but that feeling should dissipate

shortly. Allow yourself enough time after your nap to wake up before resuming activities, so you are alert and ready to tackle the rest of your day.

Before lying down to take a daily nap, you may want to think about why you began taking these naps. If you’ve been working the night shift or are a new parent, you probably have reason to be closing your eyes for a while.

On the other hand, if you feel that a nap is essential to your daily functioning, you may have a bigger health problem that should be addressed with your healthcare team.

Talking to your healthcare team is the best way to find out why you’re experiencing increased fatigue. The reasons for your exhaustion could be related to anything from having a sleep disorder such as sleep apnea to a side effect from a new medication.

—Tiffany Casper, D.O., Family Medi-

cine, Mayo Clinic Health System, Tomah, Wisconsin Mayo Clinic Q & A is an educational resource and doesn’t replace regular medical care. This Mayo Clinic Q&A represents inquiries this healthcare expert has received

from patients. For more information, visit mayoclinic.org. © 2024 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. All rights reserved. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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FEBRUARY 2025 — BALTIMORE BEACON

Law &

© MONKEY BUSINESS IMAGES | DREAMSTIME.COM

Money Subscribe online! See how on p. 20

For three good ways to help adult children financially, see story on opposite page.

Ways to avoid or respond to identity theft

By Mallika Mitra Eva Velasquez is president and CEO of the Identity Theft Resource Center (ITRC), a nonprofit that supports victims of identity theft. Here, she talks about key identity theft problems to know about in 2025.

Q. What are the most common identity theft schemes?

A. Our most recent contact center data shows that 51% of personally identifiable information (PII) compromises — which take place when someone is trying to access your personal information — come from scams, with the most common types of scams being impersonation and employment scams.

Impersonation scams occur when whoever is on the other end of the interaction is not who they say they are. They may say they’re from Amazon and your delivery is delayed, or they may pose as a credit card representative, asking whether you authorized a purchase.

With job and employment scams, we’re seeing fraudulent postings on legitimate sites such as Indeed and LinkedIn, as well as unsolicited text messages and emails from phony recruiters.

Q. What trends in ID theft do you expect to see in 2025?

A. It’s hard to predict the next global event, such as a pandemic or natural disaster, but that’s what the scammers love to leverage. During those events, consumers know something is going on but don’t have a lot of information, and then they get a bunch of requests for money or information from scammers.

Business impersonation, which occurs when someone claims to be from a company, such as Amazon or your bank, is going to continue to grow in 2025 because bad actors can easily purchase stolen personal information on the dark web and use it to seem credible when they contact victims.

There are also a lot of social media account takeovers, in which bad actors hack into someone’s account and then reach out to their connections and friends to ask for donations and information.

Social media companies aren’t responding quickly enough to these takeovers, so people end up walking away from hacked accounts. We have a proliferation of accounts that are no longer in the original owner’s control.

Q. What can people do to protect themselves from scams?

A. Approach all digital communication with skepticism. If you didn’t initiate the contact with an entity that is requesting information or money from you, go to the source and verify that it reached out to you.

That may mean calling the phone number on your credit card if someone purports to be from your card company, responding to a voice message from someone who says they’re from your utility company by finding the company’s number online, or checking the message center in your Amazon account if you receive an email or text message from someone who says they work for Amazon.

Our recent data also shows that 16% of PII compromises were the result of lost or stolen items, so remember that your smartphone and other devices are just as important as your wallet, and you need to treat them as such.

Make sure that a lock screen is enabled on all your devices, and use biometric authentication of your face or fingerprint.

Also, enable “location detection” for your device and the ability to remotely delete information from it if it is stolen.

Finally, freezing your credit is one of the most robust measures you can take to prevent fraud.

Q. What should you do if your personal information is involved in a data breach?

A. You have limited options once your information has been exposed, but you can react quickly to news of a breach.

The most important first step is to understand what specific data of yours was compromised. If your username and password were stolen, you should immediately change your password on any account where you’ve used the compromised password.

We have a free tool on the ITRC website, idtheftcenter.org, where you can see whether a company has had a breach before you do business with it. You can also sign up to get an alert if a company you do business with experiences a breach in the future.

This item first appeared in Kiplinger Personal Finance Magazine, a monthly source of advice and guidance. Subscribe to help you make more money and keep more of the money you make. © 2024 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Use tax software or a tax professional?

By Marguerita M. Cheng Many people find tax-preparation software to be very useful, and most tax software is simple to use, cost-efficient (especially when compared to the cost of hiring a certified public accountant, or CPA) and fast — some returns may be completed in just an hour.

The proof of its popularity: The tax-prep software market was valued at $17.9 billion in 2024 by Fortune Business Insights and is projected to grow to $47.9 billion by 2032.

As we approach a new tax year, you might be wondering whether you could ditch your tax professional and go with tax software. It depends on the nature of your financial situation.

Let’s consider some financial situations that are appropriate for tax software and some that might require the expertise of a tax professional.

When should you consider using tax software?

When should you stick to a tax professional?

Tax-prep software is most appropriate when your financial situation is straightforward. In the world of tax, the following qualifies as a straightforward financial situation: • You opt for the standard deduction, a fixed amount that is subtracted from your income to arrive at your taxable income, instead of itemizing your deductions.

• You earn only employment income and receive a Form W-2 from your employer.

• You invest only in traditional assets like stocks and bonds.

• You’ve resided in only one state all year.

In essence, the fewer your tax events and the fewer tax forms you will need to complete, the more you can rely on taxprep software.

However, the financial situations of many people are more complicated. If any of the following apply to you, tax-prep software might not be entirely up to the job: • You itemize your deductions rather than using the standard deduction.

• You have multiple sources of income, such as 1099 income (dividends, rental income, earnings from a side hustle, etc.), or you juggle two or more jobs.

• You are self-employed or own a business.

• If you are a partner in a business, you will need to report your share of income, losses, deductions and credits on Form K1. The form also applies if you have shares in an S corporation.

• You earn income in multiple jurisdictions.

• You own non-traditional assets such

as commodities, derivatives and currencies, among others.

• You are focused on retirement planning and estate planning and need help identifying tax-efficient strategies to maximize your retirement income and the estate you leave to your loved ones.

• You sold a business. The tax implications will depend on the business structure (LLC, partnership, S Corp, etc.) and whether it is an asset sale (selling the business assets) or stock sale (selling ownership). Tax professionals can help you minimize your tax liability.

• You received equity compensation.

Different tax rules apply to the four types of stock (or equity) compensation — restricted stock awards, restricted stock units, non-qualified stock options and incentive stock options. Tax professionals See TAX PREPARATION, page 14

Makes a great gift! | Law & Money

BALTIMORE BEACON — FEBRUARY 2025

13

The best ways to help your adult children

By Evan T. Beach There is definitely a sweet spot when it comes to family wealth. Not enough money comes with problems. Too much money comes with different problems.

The numbers are different for everyone.

One thing I’ve seen among the wealthier families we work with is a hesitation to give money to their kids for fear they will run into the problems that come with too much.

I often tell these folks that money can be a rope, or it can be quicksand. It can help your kids up, or it can totally sink them.

This depends on the amount, the method and, most important, the kid.

Below are three ways to help your adult child get ahead without having to fear it will sink them. The common thread here is that each of these categories of expense lasts for a finite period.

In working with retirees, I am much less worried about one-time expenses than I am about smaller, ongoing debits. You can plan for something that has an end date.

As with all gifts, use the “airline oxygen mask” example: Make sure you put on your mask first to ensure you have enough money for yourself before you pass it down.

1. Education When I was 22, I was sitting in an ING office in Philadelphia. One of the many people I shared my “office” with asked our boss what stock he thought they should buy.

The boss said, “If you have enough money to buy stocks, invest in yourself instead and go get your CFP.” The CFP (Certified Financial Planner™) certification is one of the less expensive professional development programs, but when you consider the cost of going back to school, taking a review course and paying for the exam, you’re probably spend-

ing about $10,000. The return on investment on this will be significantly more than what you can earn in the market.

This is the example I use because it’s the industry I know best, but these programs exist for most professions and can be a great way to help your kids get ahead.

Your Millennial or Gen X children may be beyond this point, but they still may be struggling to save for their own kid’s college.

Even a few hundred bucks a month into a 529 plan for your grandkids is a huge help.

2. Down payment on a home Home ownership in major metro markets has been put out of reach of many Millennials and most Gen Zers. Demographic trends, shortage of supply and high interest rates are all working against them.

Much of this recent pain is a result of Covid. However, the shortage goes back to the global financial crisis in 2008.

The silver lining is that, with the inflation we have seen over the past few years, we have also seen wages grow significantly.

Many of your kids can afford the monthly mortgage payment, just as they do their rent.

The problem is, the median home price in this area is about $600,000. A 20% down payment, plus $20,000 for closing costs, means your kids would have to scrape together $140,000 to get a home with a mortgage.

That’s tough to picture for someone in their 20s or early 30s. Helping your kids get to 20%, so they can afford the payment and aren’t stuck with private mortgage insurance, will help them instantly build equity.

3. Child care If you study trends of income vs. expenses over a typical lifespan (as I realize almost no one does), you’ll find things are tightest, and most likely to cross into the

Peace of Mind is Priceless

Since 1841 When you pre-plan your funeral, you give both yourself and your family a great gix .

Your service will be exactly as you wish, and your family won’t be burdened with arrangements.

red, in the early years of having kids.

You have all the one-time expenses: cribs, fancy strollers, car seats, etc. But the big one, the one that everyone complains about, is daycare.

We pay about $16,000 per year for our 2year-old’s preschool. Fortunately, my wife’s schedule can support this, and we have the means to pay for it, but this is a real struggle for a lot of people I talk to.

Once again, the benefit to helping during this period is that it is finite. Once kindergarten rolls around, there is a free option.

A final note on contributing to your kids’ retirement You may have noticed that I didn’t recommend putting money into a Roth IRA or other investment vehicle for your kids. I thought about it, and I don’t think it’s a

mistake to do this.

But then I thought about my own situation: I didn’t have the wiggle room to save in my early 20s.

As a financial planner, I have seen a million versions of those charts showing how much you need to save per month, based on your starting age, to hit $1 million. The amount you have to save gets exponentially larger the later you start.

This forced me to create the capacity to save. It forced me to limit spending that I may not have limited if my parents were saving for me, for retirement.

I think the tradeoff of missing a few years of savings was worth a lifetime of better habits. © 2024 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC

BEACON BITS OF SOCIAL SECURITY SCAMS Ongoing BEWARE Telephone and email scammer s often pose as go vernment employees. Scammer s will tr y to trick you into giving them your personal information and money. Remember, Social Security will not threaten you, tell you there is a problem with or suspend your Social Security number, demand immediate payment, or require payment by gift card, pre-paid debit card, internet currency, wire transfer or cash. If you receive a suspicious call or email, report it to the Office of the Inspector General at oig.ssa.go v.

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Tax preparation

your tax liability.

From page 12 can help you plan how to hold and exercise these options to minimize your tax liability.

• You got divorced. If you file taxes jointly with your partner, then a divorce can complicate tax matters.

One point that you should note is that the more complicated your financial situation is, the more tax planning you need to minimize your tax liability.

While tax software can help with tax compliance — filing the necessary tax returns and paying the right amount — it cannot help much with tax planning — making decisions that will help reduce

Which tax professional do you need?

Though we have used “tax professional” throughout this article to refer to experts in tax matters in general, there are some key differences among who does what.

• CPAs are full-time accountants who are very familiar with the tax code. They often work with businesses or those involved in long-term tax planning.

• Enrolled agents (EAs) can help prepare your tax return, advise you on tax matters, and even represent you before the IRS for a tax audit. The IRS issues the EA credential to those who have met the

FEBRUARY 2025 — BALTIMORE BEACON

requirements.

• Tax consultants or advisers usually have the same expertise on tax matters as CPAs. You can rely on them for both tax compliance and planning, especially in more complex situations.

However, while taxation is only one area of expertise for a CPA (financial planning, financial statements preparation, etc., being others), tax consultants are laser-focused on taxation.

So, which professional should you choose? If you are looking only for tax preparation in situations that are a tad too complex for tax software, an EA may be all that you need.

However, if you are a business owner or you need long-term tax planning (especial-

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Feb. 14

preparation and electronic filing services at select senior centers and other locations throughout Baltimore County and Baltimore City. Services are for individuals with low-to-moderate income, particularly those age 60 and above. For more information, including the list of participating locations, visit bit.ly/TaxAideBalt.

ly relating to retirement and estate planning), investing the extra bucks in tax consultants or CPAs may be appropriate.

Finally, choosing between a tax consultant and a CPA boils down to the scope of services you want. If you are a business in need of more than just tax planning, a CPA might be in a better position to help.

In sum, while tax-preparation software has revolutionized the world of taxation by providing taxpayers with a fast, cost-effective and simple way to file their tax returns, some complex financial situations still require the personal touch of a tax professional. © 2024 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

FREDERICK DOUGLASS LECTURE (VIRTUAL) Are you an amateur historian? Join this virtual session by Balti-

more County’s Online Programs for Adult Learning (OPAL) to examine original historical evidence from the Maryland Center for History and Culture’s collections and better understand the famed abolitionist’s life. This free program takes place

Feb. 1

LUNAR NEW YEAR FESTIVAL

Enjoy fun-filled activities for all ages, cultural performances and Chinese art to welcome the Year of the Snake. Author Grace Lin will visit the Cockeysville Library on Sat., Feb. 1 at 12:30 p.m. to kick off this celebration, which will continue until 4 p.m. Join the free festivities at 9833 Greenside Dr., Cockeysville. Registration isn’t necessary. For more information, call (410) 887-7750.

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on Fri., Feb. 14 from 10 to 11 a.m. online. Register on MyActiveCenter.com using your BC-PASS card number. If you need a BC-PASS, go to bit.ly/BC-PASS and submit your registration information. For more information, email theopalcenter@baltimorecountymd.gov or call (410) 887-1929.

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BALTIMORE BEACON — FEBRUARY 2025

PHOTO BY SHBS/PIXABAY

Leisure &

15

Tokyo’s Japanese gardens provide a respite from downtown. See story below.

Japan and South Korea by cruise ship

Clean, stylish Japanese culture Our cruise began and ended in Tokyo. We enjoyed the food and the cozy scene at one of

the city’s many yakitori (grilled chicken) restaurants.

The small place we chose had only a few tables, a couple of booths and a counter that seated 10. Two people cooked on a long charcoal grill: the chef and a sous chef, who sprinkled spices with a flourish, one arm arched high above his head.

No one spoke English, but the chef made a special effort for us, presenting each set of skewers and laughingly pointing to her neck or thigh to let us know what we were about to eat.

In every city and town, we admired and appreciated the Japanese people and culture. Words that come to mind are polite, quiet, considerate, neat and stylish — or at least well-groomed.

On the subway, despite the jostling crowds, signs remind passengers not to bother others. Common etiquette includes lining up in rows before getting on trains, cell phones on silent mode, speaking quietly if talking is necessary, backpacks in front, no food or drinks.

Here’s a funny story about the integrity of Japanese culture: At the Tokyo Hilton, where we stayed after our cruise, the room had wonderful cotton robes called yukata, which are somewhat similar to a kimono but much more casual.

PHOTO © NATTHAPON NGAMNITHIPORN | DREAMSTIME.COM

By Ann Cochran Some overseas trips are not like others.

Although I’ve vacationed in Europe and places as diverse as Tunisia and Colombia, I never felt so “other” as I did in Japan. And as I discovered, that was not a bad thing.

My husband, Chuck, and I chose to celebrate our 30th wedding anniversary in Japan. We wanted to go somewhere neither of us had ever been, and we were both curious about Japanese design and culture.

After debating the benefits of a cruise versus a land tour versus exploring Japan on our own with local guides, we were amazed by how much we could see during a 10-day cruise to Japan and South Korea.

The Regent Seven Seas Explorer accommodates about 750 guests with a crew of 550. Our large suite had a spacious walk-in closet, so we didn’t feel cramped.

The ship’s three specialty restaurants — French, Asian and a steakhouse — were all very good, as was the beautiful main dining room. The pool deck served delicious lunches, and we usually took advantage of room service for breakfast.

Kyoto’s Fushimi Inari Shrine attracts a cheerful crowd. On the hike to the Shinto shrine, built in 1400, visitors pass through hundreds of red-orange gates, which mark the transition from the everyday world to the sacred place.

PHOTO © F11PHOTO | DREAMSTIME.COM

After enjoying wearing the one in our room, I shopped around Tokyo but didn’t find anything I liked as much, so I asked a concierge if I could buy one from the hotel. Unfortunately, they had run out two days ago.

Me: Well, could I buy the one in my room?

Concierge: Mmm, no, because that one is used.

Me: I know. I’m using it.

Concierge: (looking concerned) Me: Well, let’s say a guest took one home. Wouldn’t the hotel just charge their credit card?

Concierge: (looking puzzled) That has never happened.

Me: (mind blown, speechless) Concierge: Let me call housekeeping and see what I can do.

After she spoke to the head of the department, she said yes, you can buy a robe, but not the “used” one. Housekeeping will put a freshly washed, ironed and folded one in your room.

Me: (still puzzled but grateful) Arigato!

Magical Kyoto This domed building was the only structure left standing in the area where the first atomic bomb exploded in 1945. Today, the preserved ruin is part of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park.

Chuck and I navigated the subway in Tokyo, the electric tram in Nagasaki, and the train from the port of Kobe to Kyoto.

We made the impulsive decision to take the train because the ship’s excursion included a two-hour bus ride each way. Instead, we took a 30-minute train ride and buzzed all around Kyoto on our own.

Our priority in Kyoto was to visit the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine, with thousands of vermilion gates featured in thousands of photos. But no photo could do it justice.

Walking the wooded mountain trails to the summit took about three hours. On the way, we passed through and marveled at the ancient red-orange archways, large and small, called torii.

The shrine’s entrance and the lower pathways were crowded, and probably always are, but in a pleasant way. We saw all manner of people, all in good moods — and quite a few women in kimono — taking pictures. Being at this Shinto shrine was an experience like no other: magical, reverent and enchanting.

Across town from the shrine, we jumped out of our taxi and followed a long trail through a garden that led to the Golden – Pavilion. Originally built in 1397 for a shogun, the palace was reconstructed after a fire in 1955.

See JAPAN, page 17

16

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FEBRUARY 2025 — BALTIMORE BEACON

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BALTIMORE BEACON — FEBRUARY 2025

From page 15 Seeing a temple whose second and third floors are covered in gold leaf, while an utterly radical idea and feat, was not much different from looking at it in photos, probably because you can’t get close. Visitors are routed around its large pond that serves as a mirror, doubling the golden effect.

Peace and beauty Aside from Kyoto, our most interesting experiences were in Hiroshima and Busan, South Korea.

While we had zero expectations of South Korea, we found that Busan is a beautiful city with intriguing skyscrapers and a crescent-shaped beach.

Our animated guide took us to a gorgeous park, lunch at a restaurant hosting two weddings, then to a stunning shrine built into coastal cliffs. When we were given free time to shop, almost ever y woman made a beeline for cosmetic stores to buy the famed Korean skin care products.

Hiroshima was a surprise, too. Despite the heaviness that you would expect, and seeing the one familiar domed building

that survived the first atomic bomb, the overriding emotion was the longing for peace.

We watched the introductory film in the Peace Memorial Museum and then wandered through the expansive and meaningful Peace Memorial Park with our guide, a retired teacher.

Japan has many glorious public gardens. We were able to see seven private ones in a historic samurai neighborhood preserved to look as it did 200 years ago in a small town called Chiran.

Chiran’s nearly half-mile main street is lined on both sides with stone walls, topped by tall hedges. Strange to say, but it felt like we were on a movie set for a British mystery film.

We learned that Japanese gardens borrow from the greater landscape. If there is a mountain in the distance, for instance, that is included in the design.

These gardens are known for their peaceful, meditative quality, achieved by balance but not symmetry. Except for some red fall foliage, there wasn’t much color, but they didn’t need it.

We went to Chiran to visit a museum dedicated to kamikaze pilots, who were not the zealots of our imaginings. They

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Feb. 21

FREE PLANETARIUM SHOW Learn about the planet Mar s! The Benjamin Banneker Planetarium

© SEAN PAVONE | DREAMSTIME.COM

Japan

17

A pedestrian pathway through Chiran’s Samurai District leads to seven beautiful public gardens. The town is worth a visit to the Chiran Peace Museum for Kamikaze Pilots.

were forced to fly these missions. It was heartbreaking to read the letters they wrote to family, mainly their mothers, on the eve of their assignments.

Around the museum and town are more than 1,000 stone lantern statues, one for each life lost this way. Our guide was emotional when she told us that she appreciated our choice to come here instead of other options we had that day.

As in Hiroshima, this museum was also

built within a park dedicated to achieving world peace. That seems an unlikely prospect, but we can surely hope.

If you go Round-trip flights from Baltimore to Tokyo start at $909. We chose Regent, but Viking, Norwegian, Celebrity, Holland America and Royal Caribbean also offer cruises in Japan and South Korea starting at around $1,400 for nine nights.

at CCBC Catonsville will present “Mars at Opposition” at 8 p.m. on Fri., Feb. 21. The show is suitable for adults and children over the age of 8. Shows are free and open to the public, but reservations are required. The planetarium is located in the Mathematics and Science Hall building at CCBC Catonsville, 800 South Rolling Rd. To reser ve a seat, contact David Ludwikoski, the Planetarium Director, at (443) 840-4216 or dludwikoski@ccbcmd.edu.

NATIONAL AQUARIUM GUIDE

Ongoing The National Aquarium is cur rently recr uiting Exhibit Guides to teach informally in their galleries and explain the Aquarium’ s exhibits. Volunteers receive free parking, discounts in the gift shops and concessions, continuing education and member ship. You must be able to work a scheduled four and one-half hour shift every week for at least one year. Training sessions will take place from late April through May. For more information and to apply, visit aqua.org/support/volunteer.

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FEBRUARY 2025 — BALTIMORE BEACON

Arts &

Our cover story about actor, producer and director Robert Neal Marshall continues on page 20.

Room Service delivers laughs at Vagabond Laugh-out-loud comedy It’s been said that in theater, dying is easy; comedy is hard. If that’s true, the cast of Room Service are among the hardest workers in Baltimore’s dramatic arts community today.

Actor Stephen Deininger had everyone roaring with laughter, almost as loudly as he rants with frustrated anger as the flustered hotel executive Gregory Wagner, who inadvertently becomes a backer for Godspeed. In comedy, timing is everything, and Deininger’s gestures, quick turns, pauses and verbal skills, even in delivering a simple expletive, made him an audience favorite.

Joining Wagner in his exasperation is hotel manager Joseph Gribble, whom Lucius Robinson plays masterfully, as he attempts to juggle Wagner’s irresistible force and Miller’s immovable object while trying not to have a nervous breakdown.

Not to be outdone is Payne’s Gordon Miller (played by Groucho Marx in the 1938 film adaptation), the indefatigable orchestra leader of this symphony of zaniness. Payne, who looks like the love child of actors Richard Benjamin and Alan Alda,

NO W ON S TA GE!

PHOTO BY SHEALYN JAE PHOTOGRAPHY

By Dan Collins It’s a trope we’ve seen in films and theater over the years, usually for comic effect: a hall or wall of doors that open and close as characters spring in and out, surprising, shocking, and saying all sorts of salacious and sappy things.

It’s used to slapsticky effect in John Murray and Allen Boretz’s farce Room Service, which debuted in New York in 1937 and returns in 2025 in all its sidesplitting silliness in the Vagabond Players’ production in downtown Baltimore.

The play opens on Broadway producerslash-con-man Gordon Miller (Matthew Lindsay Payne) in his Empire Hotel suite in New York City and stays there until curtain close.

Emerging from the multiple doors to the room are the remaining 12 actors of this talented ensemble cast, whose antics revolve around finding a backer for Gordon’s latest production, Godspeed, by fledgling playwright Leo Davis (Adrian Bagaric), and enough cash to keep his delinquent self and the entire show cast from being tossed from the hotel.

Room Service stars Andy Belt as Harry Binion, Matthew Lindsay Payne as Gordon Miller (a role Groucho Marx made famous in the 1938 film) and Adrian Bagaric as Leo Davis. The comedy runs at Vagabond Players in Fells Point through Feb. 2.

is, like Groucho, bustling with unwarranted confidence. He pawns typewriters, hogties doctors, slips into a Polish miner’s accent while slurping spaghetti, and…well, best see the show for more details!

In the midst of this madcap maelstrom is Bagaric’s naïve playwright, Leo Davis, fresh from the nowhere of Oswego, New York.

He’s tossed about the stage in ragdoll fashion, feigning measles, faking suicide, and falling in love with the big-hearted Hilda (Natasha “Tash” Hawkins). Bagaric does a

fine job in achieving Leo’s character arc, from gullible bumpkin to Broadway-wise sophisticate, under the tutelage of Miller, Godspeed director and deer-head trophy lover Harry (Andy Belt), bad-idea machine Faker Englund (Adam Garrison) and others.

Talented supporting actors The laughs are not reserved solely for those with the biggest roles. Mike Kranick’s See ROOM SERVICE, page 19

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From page 18 Timothy Hogarth, the collection agency man heck-bent on retrieving the aforementioned typewriter, appears only for a few minutes but metamorphoses wonderfully from a polite professional to near-madman as Miller and his cohorts send him on a wild goose chase that leaves him looking as though struck by a tornado.

Similarly, Anthony Rufo plays the lone character who seems to have at least a pinky-toe hold to reality as the representative of a potential savior for Miller’s production. Watching him buffeted about the stage by the rest of the cast, desperately clinging to his decorum like a life preserver, was hilarious.

Will Christine Marlowe’s (Sydney Marks) mystery backer save Miller and the cast? Will Senator Blake (Samantha

McEwen Deininger) save or scuttle the day? Will Dr. Glass (Nathan Rosen) escape his bonds? Will former Russian stage star Sasha Smirnoff’s (Tim Sayles) talents translate for an American audience? Will Hilda and Leo be betrothed or just bewildered? Will the $15,000 backer’s check bounce, clear or burst into flames? Who knows? It’s a farce!

Every actor in this wonderfully talented cast brought a level of energy and commitment to their role some might not expect in a non-Equity production.

Many a tossed bouquet to Room Service director Steve Goldklang, who somehow spins 13 wacky whirling dervishes into a well-choreographed comedic triumph.

Room Service continues its run at The Vagabond Players theatre at 806 S. Broadway in Baltimore City’s Fells Point district until Feb. 2. For tickets and more information, visit vagabondplayers.org or call (410) 563-9135.

BEACON BITS

Feb. 6

MAKE AND MINGLE AT THE WALTERS MUSEUM

Take a free tour of the manuscript gallery and the exhibit If Books Could Kill with Lynley Herbert, The W alters Ar t Museum’s curator of rare books and manuscripts. Afterward, create a short magazine from pro vided materials while mingling with other adults. The tours are offered at 6:15 and 7 p.m., and the event runs from 6 to 7:30 p.m. on Thu., Feb. 6, at the W alters Café, 600 N. Charles St., Baltimore. Registration isn’t necessary. For more information, call (410) 547-9000.

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Room Service

19

Anthony Rufo plays Simon Jenkins, a character desperately clinging to decorum like a life preserver.

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Marshall From page 1 Festival six years ago and today works as its executive director. Last year actor Matthew Modine was a speaker at the annual event.

Previously, Marshall worked as a contractor with the Columbia Festival of the Arts as its executive producer. When the pandemic hit, his predecessor wanted to shut down the festival — until Marshall

FROM PAGE 22 ANSWERS TO SCRABBLE

FEBRUARY 2025 — BALTIMORE BEACON

pushed to make it virtual. “That’s how the festival stayed alive for two years during the pandemic,” he said.

After the previous executive director retired, Marshall took over the full-time position. He moved away from live music and rebranded the event as the Columbia Maryland Film Festival, which is “really growing,” Marshall said.

West End musical, memoir Marshall has produced and directed sev-

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

eral plays in the UK, and he’s excited about the upcoming West End musical “Rumpelstiltskin’s Daughter,” which he and composer Tim Battle adapted from the awardwinning book by Diane Stanley. The story veers off from the fairytale when Rumpelstiltskin falls in love with the miller’s daughter, and they have a daughter of their own. Kindness wins over greed.

Marshall is currently writing a memoir.

What began as a recount of his heart attack and survival turned into a deeper autobiography that includes elements of his childhood, spirituality and identity. He also opens up about his experience in occasional lectures.

Since 2009 he has been a popular guest lecturer on the Queen Mary II and other ships. He discusses aviation history, his grandfather’s famous color footage of D-

Day and the Cunard Line ships’ history, which he explored in his 2009 documentary film “Three Queens.”

The key to embracing the future, he said, is to realize we’re not in control of it.

“There’s a lot of people who worry about things, about fate, about avoiding things and making decisions, but there are things that will happen to us that we can’t control,” Marshall said.

“But really, it’s about being alive. It’s about living…That’s what I try to teach people with my work now. Through my creative work, my lectures, it’s about embracing that vibrant light, embracing, and finding what that is.”

The Columbia Maryland Film Festival is scheduled for September 8 through 14, 2025. For more information, visit columbiamarylandfilmfestival.com.

BEACON BITS

Feb. 8

VIOLIN AND PIANO RECITAL AT THE BMA Enjoy an afternoon violin and piano recital and get to know the

artistr y of some of Peabody Conservatory’s top talents. Wei Zhu, winner of the 2024 Yale Gordon Concert Competition, will be accompanied by Hui-Chuan Chen on piano. This free event takes place on Sat., Feb. 8 at 3 p.m. at the

ANSWERS TO JUMBLE

Baltimore Museum of Art, 10 Art Museum Dr. Tickets are required and can be reserved at shriverconcerts.org/YaleGordon (click on the reservations tab). For

Jumbles: MORPH PRESS GOTCHA AGENDA Answer: The TV documentary on the Apollo 11 Moon landing mission was a — SPACE PROGRAM

more information, email info@shriverconcerts.org or call (410) 516-7164.

Go to

jmorreliving.ccom for news, s deliciouss recipes and fun featurres.

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Ongoing GUNPOWDER

VALLEY CONSERVANCY VOLUNTEER

ONE BIG HAPPY By Rick Detorie

The Gunpowder Valley Conservancy needs volunteers to support its work for healthy lands, waterways and communities within the Gunpowder Watershed. Volunteers of all ages, as well as individuals, families and groups, are welcome. For more information and current opportunities, visit gunpowdervalleyconser vancy. org/get-involved/volunteer .

Ongoing

GOLDEN AGE PASS TO MARYLAND PARKS

If you’re at least 62 years old, you can get free entry into any Maryland state Park for life.

With the Golden Age pass, available at any state park for $10, you also can get half-price camping during the week (holidays excluded). Buy the pass in person or online at shopdnr.com/GoldenAgePass.aspx.

For more information call (410) 260-8186.

Senior Adventures in

Learning at CCBC The Seniors program at CCBC provides a wide variety of stress-free continuing education courses both in-person and online via Zoom.

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FEBRUARY 2025 — BALTIMORE BEACON

Crossword Puzzle

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

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2. Cast member 3. Consequential 1. Set up tents for the night 4. Anaheim time (in Feb.) 5. Draft Kings data 5.

Member of the woodwind family 9. Delivered a knuckleball 6. Dexterous 14. Ideal seven-card stud hole cards 7. You get half of it from your dad 15. Made a Silly Straw 8. Scamper with all of your clothes in the 16. Sew old rags into a new coat hamper 17. 25th star 9. Grip 20. Many, many years 10. Member of Foghorn Leghorn’s dating 21. After expenses pool 22. The IRS’ Earned Income Credit, briefly 11.

Coating on an abandoned bike 23. Uncommon Egyptian, born around 12.

Jacob’s big brother 1341 BC 13.

Direction traveled by hopeful 49’ers 24. “You ___ me up a wall” 18. ___ York (Brooklyn ‘hood near Queens) 26. Put them on one leg at a time 19.

Face card 28. 25th January big-game victor 25. Geese pattern 34. Hamster’s home 26. This or that 36. ___ oil (unrefined bread dip) 27. The only ingredient in maple syrup 37. The Barber of Seville, for example 29. “___ durn tootin’!”

38. NBC’s 1980’s-era alien 30. Female gametes 39. Minnesota senator during most of 31. Neurons Obama’s terms 32. Too good to be ___ 42. Toupee 33. Droops 43. More like indigo than purple 45. Open Government Partnership, in brief 34. Cars in an airport line 35. ___ Want is You (U2 song) 46. 1958 Oscar-winner, Burl 39. Acting distraught 47. 25th party 40. Spy org. in Night Flight from Moscow 51. One of the Coen brothers 41. Prefix that is left of -center 52. Killer whales 44. The night before Christmas 55. ___ Fridays, restaurant chain founded 46. End of cash- or clothin 1965 48. Actress Perlman, from a Boston show 58. President pro ___ 49. Played improv music 59. The first one issued was 055-09-0001 50. Actress Anderson, from a Cincinnati 61. Suffix King James probably used show 62. 25th in a list of leaders 53. Enjoyed immensely 66. End of veterin- or humanit54. Without boldness 67. The second most visited eCommerce 55. “___ the night before Christmas” site in 2024 56. Any member of The Supremes 68. Summer Hebrew month 57. Hip bones 69. Jargon 59. Ponzi scheme, for example 70. Judi Dench, as appointed by QE II 60. Kind of terrier 71. Catch a glimpse of 63. PC linkup Down 64. Good degree for a CFO 1. Scoped out the burglary site 65. Word on a high school reunion directory

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By Stephen Sherr

Answers on page 20.

Makes a great gift!

BALTIMORE BEACON — FEBRUARY 2025

CLASSIFIEDS The Beacon prints classified advertising under the following headings: Business & Employment Opportunities; Caregivers; Computer Services; Entertainment, Financial, For Sale; For Sale/Rent: Real Estate; Free; Health; Home/ Handyman Services; Legal Services; Miscellaneous; Personals; Personal Services; Vacation Opportunities; and Wanted. For submission guidelines and deadlines, see the box on the right.

CAVEAT EMPTOR! The Beacon does not knowingly accept obscene, offensive, harmful, or fraudulent advertising. However, we do not investigate any advertisers or their products and cannot accept responsibility for the integrity of either. Respondents to classified advertising should always use caution and their best judgment.

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

Caregivers MOBILE HAIR & NAIL SERVICES - WE COME TO YOU. Professional Licensed Hair Stylist. Women and Men’s Services - All Hair Types. Cuts, Styles, Roller Sets, Color, Perms, Men’s Cuts & Facial Grooming, Manicures & more. Call 410-415-1760.

Computer Services PATIENT, PRACTICAL, PERSONAL. 20+ years experience with all skill levels. Learn how to protect from scams. Get comfortable & confident with smartphones, tablets, laptops, TV, Alexa, etc. Julia: 443-436-2612. computercoachbaltimore.weebly.com

Events PRIME TIMERS OF BALTIMORE is a welcoming community for mature gay and bisexual men. The Prime Timers offer social activities that cater to the mind and body. We meet for dinners, a book club, potlucks, hiking, tours, bowling, and more! Join us! Visit baltimoreprimetimers.org or e-mail info@ptbalto.org for info.

Financial

For Sale NATIONAL MEMORIAL PARK CEMETERY. 4 Choice Sites in Desirable Block DD, Regularly $7995/ea. SALE: $2500/each, or best offer Contact 917-754-3355.

PREPARE FOR POWER OUTAGES TODAY with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with a qualifying purchase. Call 1-301-960-3174 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator.

It’s a power move.

NEW WINDOWS FROM WINDOW NATION. Special money saving offer - zero down, zero payments, zero interest for TWO years AND buy 2 windows and get 2 FREE! Offer is valid for select models. Labor not included. Other restrictions apply. Call Window Nation today! 855-909-2278.

UP TO $15,000.00 OF GUARANTEED LIFE INSURANCE! No medical exam or health questions. Cash to help pay funeral and other final expenses. Call Physicians Life Insurance Company - 866-212-1092 or visit www.Life55plus.info/beacon

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

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

Note: Maryland contractors must provide a valid MHIC number.

Each real estate listing qualifies as one ad. All ads are subject to publisher’s discretion. Payment will be refunded if unacceptable for any reason.

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

For Sale/Rent: Real Estate

Home/Handyman Services

Miscellaneous

LAS VEGAS - 2 One-Bedroom side by side timeshare units week 8 $2,500. H. McCrory 240-444-0879 htm7290@comcast.net

JACUZZI BATH REMODEL can install a new, custom bath or shower in as little as one day. For a limited time, waving ALL installation costs! (Additional terms apply. Subject to change and vary by dealer. (Offer ends 8/25/24.)

Call 1-833-994-0538.

CONSUMER CELLULAR - the same reliable, nationwide coverage as the largest carriers. No long-term contract, no hidden fees and activation is free. All plans feature unlimited talk and text, starting at just $20/month. For more information, call 1-833-742-1303.

THINKING OF SELLING YOUR HOME? My total listing fee — 1% - Why pay 5/6/7%?

Save thousands full service — Not full price!

Over 20 yrs experience. Call/text for free home valuation. Robert Holmes, professional realtor.

443-794-8297. Home Selling Assistance, Inc. Office 410-256-3939 marylanddiscountbroker.com

Health PORTABLE OXYGEN CONCENTRATOR May Be Covered by Medicare! Reclaim independence and mobility with the compact design and long-lasting battery of Inogen One. Free information kit! Call 855-851-0949.

DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 400 plus procedures. Real dental insurance - NOT just a discount plan. Do not wait! Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details! 1-844366-1003 www.dental50plus.com/320 #6258 MOBILEHELP, America’s Premier Mobile Medical Alert System. Whether You’re Home or Away. For Safety and Peace of Mind. No Long Term Contracts! Free Brochure! Call Today! 1240-650-9189.

STROKE AND CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE are leading causes of death, according to the American Heart Association. Screenings can provide peace of mind or early detection!

Contact Life Line Screening to schedule your screening. Special offer - 5 screenings for just $149. Call 1-844-485-7035.

Home/Handyman Services WESLEY FINANCIAL GROUP, LLC Timeshare Cancellation Experts. Over $50,000,000 in timeshare debt and fees cancelled in 2019.

Get free informational package and learn how to get rid of your timeshare! Free consultations.

Over 450 positive reviews. Call 855-626-8703.

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LITTLE DEEDS ACCESSIBILITY SOLUTIONS Live independently and safely in your own home through Little modifications by licensed, skilled, and deeply caring craftspeople.

Did you know we can convert your tub into a shower with a Tub-Cut for a quarter of the cost of those shower conversion companies? Little Deeds also provides no-cost, no-obligation, safety, and accessibility assessments for Aging in Place or when coming home from the hospital. Text/Call 410-450-4466 https://www.littledeeds.com/

ELIMINATE GUTTER CLEANING FOREVER! LeafFilter, the most advanced debrisblocking gutter protection. Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today. 20% off Entire Purchase. Plus 10% Senior & Military Discounts.

Call 1-855-977-6078.

THE BATHROOM OF YOUR DREAMS in as little as 1 day. Limited Time Offer - $1000 off or No Payments and No Interest for 18 months for customers who qualify. BCI Bath & Shower.

Many options available. Quality materials & professional installation. Senior & Military Discounts Available. Call Today! 1-855-653-0087.

DON’T LET THE STAIRS LIMIT YOUR MOBILITY! Discover the ideal solution for anyone who struggles on the stairs, is concerned about a fall or wants to regain access to their entire home. Call AmeriGlide today! 1866-365-5170.

SAFE STEP. North America’s #1 Walk-In Tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-theline installation and service. Now featuring our FREE shower package and $1600 Off for a limited time! Call today! Financing available. Call Safe Step 1-866-478-2363.

AMERICAN RESIDENTIAL HEATING & COOLING. As temps outside start to climb, the season for savings is now. $49 cooling or heating system tune up. Save up to $2000 on a new heating and cooling system (restrictions apply.)

FREE estimates. Many payment options available. Licensed and insured professionals. Call today 1-877-691-0273.

Miscellaneous BECOME A PUBLISHED AUTHOR. We want to Read Your Book! Dorrance PublishingTrusted by Authors Since 1920. Book manuscript submissions currently being reviewed.

Comprehensive Services: Consultation, Production, Promotion and Distribution. Call for Your Free Author`s Guide 1-833-992-0110 or visit dorranceinfo.com/beacon

Personal Services MENDING FAMILY RELATIONSHIPS. I’m Jane M. Connor, a licensed marriage and family therapist in Maryland, dedicated to helping families navigate these challenges. My goal is to support families in overcoming painful experiences and rebuilding relationships. Ready to take the first step? Schedule a free 15-minute consultation with me — no strings attached. Let’s explore if my approach is right for you. If not, I’ll help you find the right resources. Contact me at 202-658-5045 or janemconnor@gmail.com. Visit www.janemconnor.com for more information. Together, we can foster understanding and closeness.

TV/Cable DIRECTV - All your entertainment. Nothing on your roof! Sign up for DIRECTV and get your first three months of Max, Paramount+, Showtime, Starz, MGM+ and Cinemax included. Choice package $84.99/mo. Some restrictions apply. Call DIRECTV 1-888-572-4953.

GET DISH SATELLITE TV + INTERNET! Free Install, Free HD-DVR Upgrade, 80,000 On-Demand Movies, Plus Limited Time Up To $600 In Gift Cards. Call Today! 1-844-560-5837.

Please patronize our advertisers.

They keep the Beacon free!

We thank our advertisers who make our publication possible.

Please patronize them and let them know you saw their ad in the Beacon.

Classes

Funeral Services

Community College Baltimore County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 Osher Lifelong Learning Institute . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

Cremation Society of Maryland . .13 MacNabb Funeral Home . . . . . . .13

Clinical Health Studies

Care For U Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Family & Nursing Care . . . . . . . . .3

Exercise & Sleep Study/mPATH . .9 Hearing & Memory Study . . . . . . .9 Long Covid Study . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Prediabetes Blood Sugar Study . . .9

Employment

CSI Support & Development . . . .11

Home Health Care/ Companion Services Home Improvement

American Standard Walk-in Tub . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Nu Look Home Design . . . . . . . .24

Housing

Charlestown/Erickson . . . . . . . . . .7

Christ Church Harbor Apts . . . . .17 Enterprise Residential . . . . . . . . .11 Merion Village . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Merritt Station . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 Oak Crest/Erickson . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Park View Apartments . . . . . . . . .11 Pickersgill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 St. Mary’s Roland View Towers . .13 Virginia Tower Apts . . . . . . . . . . .14 Warren Place Apts. . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Medical/Health/Insurance

Barbara Horanoff Insurance Agency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Humana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Retail

Radio Flea Market . . . . . . . . . . . .18

Subscriptions

Beacon Newspaper . . . . . . . . . . . .20 JMore Living . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20

Theater

Toby’s Dinner Theatre . . . . . . . . .18

Travel

Collette Iceland Trip . . . . . . . . . .16 Superior Tours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

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FEBRUARY 2025 — BALTIMORE BEACON

ROOFING SIDING WINDOWS DOORS GUTTERS

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