October 2012 Baltimore Beacon Edition

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Fast talker finds true calling

OCTOBER 2012

I N S I D E …

CREDIT

By Carol Sorgen Combine the gift of gab with a flair for the theatrical and you’ve got the makings of a first-class auctioneer.

Apparently, the National Auctioneers Association (NAA) agrees, and this past July NAA judges recognized the talents of Joppa resident Lynne Zink, 50, awarding her top honors in the women’s division of the International Auctioneer Championship held in Spokane, Wash.

Zink, a former high school English and drama teacher, outshone a field of 23 other women in her fifth attempt at the title.

Women, by the way, represent only 8 percent of all auctioneers in the country.

“It was such an honor,” said Zink, who attributes this year’s winning ways to personal growth, overcoming nerves, putting her skills to the test and, ultimately, becoming a better auctioneer during the competition’s 25th year.

Zink had made the International Auctioneer Championship finals each of the past three years. But this year, she walked away with the trophy, a ring, $5,000, and the opportunity to serve as ambassador for the NAA, representing the association and industry at events across the country.

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

Comparing costs in five great world-class cities; plus, your rights when airline schedules change, and avoiding ID theft while on vacation page 22

Picking up the gavel Zink’s husband, Bill, long encouraged her to pursue the profession. “He grew up on a farm and had gone to auctions all his life,” Zink explained, “and thought I had what it took to be a good auctioneer.”

Sure, fast talking is a common — and not altogether inaccurate — stereotype of an auctioneer, said Zink, “but that’s only about 5 percent of the job.” Attention to detail, a strong business foundation, good interpersonal skills, creativity and salesmanship are part of the package as well.

When the program Zink was teaching in was at risk of losing its funding in 2001, Zink finally heeded her husband’s advice and attended an educational program for budding auctioneers in North Carolina. (Similar programs are available throughout the country.

You can learn more at www.auctioneers.org or www.mdauctioneers.org.)

She then joined the Auctioneers Association of Maryland (of which she currently serves as president), where other mem-

Auctioneer Lynne Zink won the top prize in the women’s division of the International Auctioneer Championship in July. The former teacher put her skills in salesmanship, creativity, business — and fast talking — to work building a career as an auctioneer 11 years ago.

bers gave her the opportunity to hone her skills at the podium. Soon she began developing her own business.

Zink went full-time in 2003, and now does about 110 auctions a year on a contract basis, selling real estate, personal property and building supplies. She also conducts benefit auctions under LynneZink.com for about 29 clients, such as schools and nonprofit associations.

Old industry, renewed interest Auctions aren’t a new phenomenon. According to the NAA, they have been taking place for more than 2,000 years and are one of the best ways to sell assets.

Every year, reports the NAA, profes-

sional auctioneers in the United States alone sell approximately a quarter-trillion dollars in property, representing a range of markets, such as art, antiques, automobiles, business liquidations, real estate, collectibles and intellectual property.

What is new, though, said Zink, is the growing public interest in auctions, spurred on by the popularity of reality TV shows such as “Auction Hunters,” “Storage Wars,” and ”Auction Kings.” A&E, the channel that hosts “Storage Wars,” claims that it’s the most watched program since A&E went on the air in 1984.

“It’s the chance for that great find that See AUCTIONEER page 21

ARTS & STYLE

La Boheme kicks off Lyric Opera’s new season; plus, poetry contest winners pay homage to Baltimore page 26

FITNESS & HEALTH k Foods that soothe pain k Does water aid weight loss?

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LAW & MONEY k Perk up your portfolio k ABCs of annuities

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VOLUNTEERS & CAREERS

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Life is a practicum Long-time readers of the Beacon have dad was right to ask me or an aide to stay “met” my mom (83) and dad (92) before in with him every night in both the hospital and rehab to keep an eye on this column. Just last year, I things and advocate for him. wrote two columns about Furthermore, it appeared their experiences in moving to me that hospital and rehab from their Austin home of 35 settings conspire to confine a years to a Texas retirement person to bed for 20 or more community. hours a day regardless of My brother and I have each made two trips there what his or her condition is. over the past six weeks, durMy dad was perfectly able ing which we’ve attempted to to walk, sit up, read, work at a help our dad navigate his recomputer — but the facilities covery from a health setback FROM THE offered only a hospital bed, and return to his community. PUBLISHER sliding food tray, and a guest It’s difficult to draw les- By Stuart P. Rosenthal chair or two in his room. sons from experiences when Furthermore, to prevent you’re deep in the throes of them. But I’d falls (and the resulting liability?), all palike to share a few inchoate thoughts with tients are largely encouraged to remain in you. Maybe putting them to paper will help their rooms (and in bed) most of the time. me process them better.

It seemed to me this only made my father First, I want to say a few words of praise weaker and frailer as the days and weeks for the many nurses, techs and doctors passed.

My grandmother (his mother) always who work hard and do their best in busy hospital and rehab facility settings. used to say “a hospital is no place for sick There’s so much to remember, so many people.” As a kid I thought that was funny. charts and computers to consult, devices I now know what she meant. to use and pumps to unclog, it’s a wonder I also learned that you don’t know what you don’t know. My dad’s chief problem that more mistakes don’t happen.

But mistakes do happen, not infrequent- resulting from his illness is that he is not ly. I don’t think the details are important, able to safely swallow food or drink, at but I discovered more than once that my least for the time being.

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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 and Greater Washington and Palm Springs, CA. Subscriptions are available via third-class mail ($12), repaid with order. MD residents add 6 percent for sales tax.

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

• Publisher/Editor ....................Stuart P. Rosenthal • Associate Publisher..............Judith K. Rosenthal • Vice President, Operations........Gordon Hasenei • Director of Sales ................................Alan Spiegel • Assistant Operations Manager ..........Roger King • Managing Editor............................Barbara Ruben • Contributing Editor ..........................Carol Sorgen • Graphic Designer ..............................Kyle Gregory • Advertising Representatives ............Steve Levin, ........................................................................Jill Joseph

The Beacon, P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915 (410) 248-9101 • Email: info@thebeaconnewspapers.com Submissions: The Beacon welcomes reader contributions. Deadline for editorial is the 1st of the month preceding the month of publication. Deadline for ads is the 1st of the month preceding the month of publication. See page 31 for classified advertising details. Please mail or email all submissions. © Copyright 2012 The Beacon Newspapers, Inc.

His doctor and speech therapist explained that the best option under the circumstances would be to insert a feeding tube into his stomach through which he could directly ingest liquid nourishment.

For reasons never made clear, Dad spent three days in the hospital (courtesy of Medicare, and during which time he was getting only IV fluids) before the 45minute procedure was finally arranged.

While it went well, it was only a day or two later, while at a rehab facility preparing for discharge, that he learned his retirement community would not permit him to return with a feeding tube!

The real kicker is that my parents had just the month before been asked (effectively, forced) to move from the community’s independent living wing to its assisted living wing so the facility could better provide the services they required.

What we didn’t know was that residents cannot be excluded from the independent living wing due to feeding tubes — only from the assisted living wing. So having packed up and moved to assisted living

just a month ago, they were now basically being asked to pack up and move out for good!

With great effort — involving many calls, much research, some cajoling and a few threats — reason prevailed, and we were able to convince the facility that my dad could safely and independently manage his feeding tube so they could permit him to return.

During this period, we visited a few other facilities just in case he would not be allowed back. At one, the marketing director — describing the limits of our ability to negotiate a similar arrangement to the one my parents would be leaving — quoted a song lyric I hadn’t heard before: “Sometimes you’re the windshield, and sometimes you’re the bug,” she said.

I think it’s a very apt phrase to describe what I have learned from my recent visits to Texas.

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

Dear Editor: Of course it is “wrong to try to tell the public the changes are cost-neutral or result in cost savings” regarding the socalled Affordable Care Act. However, if Mr. Rosenthal (From the Publisher, September) had taken the time to examine the facts, not the hype, he would have known a long time ago that the costs to small businesses, as well as everyone else, would be going up big time.

The misinformation that is put forth by the current Administration is appalling. In addition to rising healthcare costs, there are hidden taxes which affect everyone’s pocket.

And as to Medicare, our costs are going up every year. We pay about $10,000 for coverage now, but in 2013, just the Medicare payments alone are going up $114 per person a month, plus an increase in drug coverage. I cannot imagine what our supplemental insurance will cost.

Why do you think there are so many people who want to repeal the bill and start over? We have been ill advised and ill served by the passage of this bill, thanks to an irresponsible Congress and prevaricating Administration. So glad you finally noticed the disparities.

Sharon B. Wharton Baltimore Dear Editor: In a few months, I will have been retired for 10 years. What I had hoped to achieve

by volunteering just didn’t work out. Your information about ReServe (“Retirees happy to serve again,” September) offers a glimmer of hope all is not lost.

In case no one’s noticed, volunteers are treated as nothing better than unpaid help — hardly any respect is shown for our time, enthusiasm, energy or expertise. So often I’ve brought in thousands of fundraising dollars or material donations, only to be ignored when a scintilla of gratitude might have been expected.

Even in the few (very few) unpaid positions where I was treated fairly well, it was very evident I was not “part of the team.” When the volunteer assignment finished (or when I left in disgust), it was back to square one.

After nearly 10 years of disrespect, marginalization, dearth of appreciation and the sense I’ve wasted my time, I’m ready to quit.

I have much to be grateful for, and I really wanted to contribute my time, energy, ability and optimism as a way of “giving back.” Perhaps if one were paid even the minimum wage, your value and commitment might be esteemed.

I’ll contact ReServe and send them my two resumes, one from my professional life and the other a review of my extensive volunteer work. Wish me luck!

Rosalind Ellis Heid Baltimore See LETTERS TO EDITOR, page 30

BALTIMORE BEACON — OCTOBER 2012

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Health Fitness &

ONE LESS TEST Women over age 65 may no longer need to get an annual Pap smear ARM YOURSELF WITH INFO Check blood pressure in both arms; a big difference could spell trouble ANGER MANAGEMENT Look beneath the surface to discover why family members get angry WATER AND WEIGHT Drinking water and eating water-rich foods cuts calorie consumption

Soothe pain with foods, from fish to fruit

By Sharon Palmer Aches and pains — whether they result indirectly from a condition like arthritis or cancer, or directly due to injury — can be destructive. However, research is beginning to discover the power of diet to help manage pain.

When you injure yourself or get an infection, acute inflammation is your body’s natural defense response. Redness, swelling and pain are the telltale signs as immune cells flood the area to target infectious organisms or push out debris from the site.

But chronic inflammation occurs when the inflammatory process is triggered with no real threat at hand. This slow simmer of inflammation may underlie the pathogenesis of many diseases, such as cancer and arthritis, that cause pain.

Anti-inflammatory drugs have been used to treat pain and inflammation for more than 40 years. Now scientists are turning their attention to foods that can act as anti-inflammatory agents.

Foods fight or feed inflammation Studies show that your daily food choic-

es can either reduce or increase levels of inflammation in your body. A 2006 review published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that a dietary pattern high in refined starches, sugar, saturated fats and trans fats, and low in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and omega-3 fatty acids, increased inflammation.

In contrast, Mediterranean diet patterns — characterized by high fruit, vegetable, whole grain, healthy plant fats and fish intake, and low intake of processed foods, refined grains and red meat — are linked with lower inflammation.

“Making poor food choices, like highfat, high-sodium foods, can increase inflammation levels in our bodies that can trigger flare-ups and cause further problems,” said registered dietician Jessica Crandall, Wellness Director at Sodexo Health Care and spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics in Chicago.

“Foods that contain high amounts of antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, such as berries, beans, broccoli, spinach, kale, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, grapes and fish,

will help reduce inflammation throughout the body,” Crandall noted.

Beyond just taming inflammation, consuming a balanced diet with adequate intake of essential protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, minerals and fluids should be your first goal in addressing pain.

Many nutrient deficiencies present themselves with symptoms of pain, such as low levels of vitamin D manifesting with muscle and back pain. Conversely, vitamin D supplementation can reduce levels of pain, and magnesium supplementation helps treat migraines.

“Drinking inadequate amounts of fluids can cause additional joint pain and headaches,” Crandall added. Water is used by your body as a natural lubricant around joints and as a shock absorber for your eyes, brain and spinal cord.

If you have sensitivity to a particular food, it can also cause pain, said Crandall.

Food allergies are an abnormal immunologic response following the ingestion of a certain food.

Food intolerances are an adverse reaction to a specific food produced by a non-

immunologic mechanism. For example, both peanut allergies and red wine sensitivities can trigger painful symptoms, such as stomach cramps or headaches in some individuals.

A 2010 study published in Cephalagia found that a diet that restricted foods that produced an immunologic response significantly reduced migraines.

If you suspect food sensitivities may be triggering your pain, you may want to keep a food diary to track symptoms and consult your healthcare provider to discuss testing for food allergies.

Foods that reduce pain While science supports the benefits of an overall anti-inflammatory diet — high in minimally processed plant foods such as whole grains, legumes, nuts, fruits, vegetables, coffee, tea and spices — to reduce chronic inflammation, certain foods and supplements are linked with managing certain types of pain, including: 1. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish See SOOTHE PAIN, page 7

A variety of foods may reduce stroke risk

By Hara Estroff Marano Canny as it is, the brain deploys a number of ways to preserve its functions over time. Brain cells turn out a variety of homegrown factors to maintain integrity.

Behavioral actions such as intellectual challenges and physical activity keep brains humming, as well. The most significant way to keep brain cells healthy is to assure they get an adequate blood supply.

Unfortunately, interruption of blood flow to the brain by blockage or hemorrhage — known as a stroke — is common among Americans. Stroke is the third leading cause of death (after heart disease and cancer), and each year nearly 800,000 people suffer a stroke. While stroke risk dramatically increases after age 55, nearly a quarter of strokes occur among those under age 65.

High blood pressure and smoking are two of the biggest risk factors. Yet researchers are discovering that diet plays a huge role in keeping the brain and its

blood supply in good working order and, in some cases, can even limit the damage to brain cells if stroke occurs.

Fruit boost. No one miracle food can eliminate the risk of stroke, but eating an array of fruits and vegetables confers significant protection.

It’s the variety that’s important, say Swedish scientists, as it provides many different antioxidants that work synergistically to inhibit oxidative stress and inflammation of blood vessels — major factors in stroke risk.

In a Karolinska Institute study of over 36,000 women, those with the highest antioxidant intake cut stroke risk 17 percent more than those with the lowest intake.

White knights. Bright color tends to be a good guide to antioxidant content in fruits and vegetables, yet white-flesh fruits such as pears and apples have a particular ability to ward off stroke, Dutch scientists found.

In a 10-year study of over 20,000 hearthealthy adults, those who consumed the

most white fruits and veggies — including bananas, cauliflower, and cucumbers — had a 52 percent lower risk of stroke. For every 25-gram increase in consumption of white foods — an apple averages 120 grams — stroke risk fell by 9 percent.

Tea by three. Tea is yet another antioxidant powerhouse, and UCLA physicians find that drinking three cups a day cuts stroke risk by 21 percent. It doesn’t matter whether tea is green or black; both contain the antioxidant epigallocatechin gallate.

Tea is also rich in theanine, an amino acid that crosses the blood-brain barrier and, researchers speculate, displaces glutamate — a neurotransmitter responsible for much nerve cell damage after a stroke.

The effect of tea is linear; the more you drink, the more protection you get.

Milk ilk. Maintaining normal blood pressure throughout life is critical to cardiovascular health and to minimizing risk of heart disease and stroke. To that end, dairy products are important for optimal blood pressure regulation, at all ages. The

calcium content, especially in low-fat milk products, helps tone the smooth muscle that lines arteries.

In a study of 552 Canadian children ages 8 to 10, the highest intake of dairy foods was associated with the lowest levels of blood pressure, but only among normalweight kids.

Fish riches. A diet well-stocked with fatty fish boosts health. Fish oil attenuates the adverse effects of air pollution on the cardiovascular system — a hidden factor in aging.

Researchers gave healthy middle-aged adults 3 grams daily of fish oil supplements, or a similar dose of olive oil, and then subjected them to blasts of air pollution. Those taking fish oil were protected against negative changes in nervous system control of heart function and against increases in blood triglyceride levels.

— Psychology Today Magazine © 2012 Sussex Publishers, Inc. All rights reserved. Distributed by Tribune Media Services, Inc.

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Second, arm-to-arm pressure differences of 10 to 15 points or more also boosted the chances of having a stroke or dying from cardiovascular disease, according to a study published in Lancet.

Diabetic foot exams Corns/calluses Wound/infection care Toenail fungus

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Stroke predictor

The first finding may be more worthy of attention than the latter, even though strokes and death sound more grievous than “peripheral artery disease.”

The fact is that PAD affects an estimated 12 million Americans — more than heart disease and stroke combined. It can severely limit mobility and cause debilitating pain, but it can also lurk silently.

It can be deadly, as well, which might make differences in blood pressure from arm to arm an important early warning sign. Most guidelines already recommend measuring blood pressure in both arms, but many doctors and do-it-yourselfers ignore that guidance.

You needn’t worry much about variations of a few points between the right and left arm. But if your arm-to-arm readings at home diverge by more than 10 or 15 points, tell your doctor and ask him or her to check both arms also.

If your doctor finds the same discrepancy, he or she might order another test.

That’s the ankle-brachial index, which is calculated from blood pressure measurements at the ankle and the arm.

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Arm-to-arm variations in blood pressure may warrant attention. A difference of 10 or more points could signal peripheral artery disease.

Roll up both sleeves the next time you check your blood pressure at home or have it measured by a healthcare provider.

Why? A recent analysis of 20 different studies in which blood pressure was measured in both arms came to two noteworthy conclusions.

First, people with arm-to-arm pressure differences of 15 points or more were twice as likely to have peripheral artery disease (PAD) compared with those who had similar readings in both arms.

PAD occurs when vessels of the arms, legs or other body parts beyond the heart and brain become clogged, usually from atherosclerosis — the buildup of fatty plaque that is also behind most heart attacks and strokes.

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OCTOBER 2012 — BALTIMORE BEACON

BALTIMORE BEACON — OCTOBER 2012

Soothe pain From page 4 and fish oil, produce arthritic pain-reducing effects equivalent to ibuprofen.

2. Green tea, rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, appears to reduce inflammation and pain in arthritis.

3. Pomegranates and cherries are both linked with reducing muscle sore-

Blood pressure From page 5 Pressure that is significantly lower at the ankle than at the arm suggests a blockage in the leg. And, as the authors of a commentary accompanying the Lancet article note, many cases of high blood pressure could be missed when only one arm is checked.

Tips for taking blood pressure at home 1. Avoid caffeine, alcohol and nicotine

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ness after intense physical activity.

4. Red grapes or wine, rich in the compound resveratrol, are associated with reducing pain.

5. Olive oil contains the compound oleocanthal, which possesses anti-inflammatory properties similar to ibuprofen.

6. Coffee has been shown to reduce muscle pain during and after exercise.

7. Curcumin, the anti-inflammatory spice

that gives curry its golden hue, relieves pain in osteoarthritis, according to research.

8. Ginger has been linked with reducing pain associated with muscle injury after exercise.

9. Glucosamine and chondroitin, supplements often taken together, have shown improvements in pain related to osteoarthritis — although not all studies have found such benefits.

10. S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe) supplements appear to be as effective as anti-inflammatory drugs such as celecoxib at relieving arthritis pain.

Reprinted with permission from Environmental Nutrition, a monthly publication of Belvoir Media Group, LLC.1-800-8295384. www.EnvironmentalNutrition.com. ©2012 Belvoir Media Group. Distributed

by Tribune Media Services, Inc.

for 30 minutes before taking your blood pressure.

2. Sit quietly for a few minutes with your feet on the floor before inflating the cuff.

3. Rest your arm so your elbow is level with your heart, and wrap the cuff over the bare skin of your upper arm.

4. Take two readings. If they’re close, average them. If not, take a third reading and average the three.

5. Repeat the procedure in the other arm.

For a video showing how to measure

your blood pressure at home, go to www.health.harvard.edu/128.

— Harvard Heart Letter

© 2012 President and fellows of Harvard College. All rights reserved. Distributed by Tribune Media Services, Inc

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Rhett has a passion for exploring the great outdoors with his four-legged friends.

That’s why he chose Broadmead. The beautiful wooded surroundings and walking trails are perfect for their adventures. Nature-loving, fun-loving…these are the traits that describe the Broadmead community and its residents. People like Rhett, people like you.

Call 443.578.8008 for a personal tour | www.Broadmead.org Reserve your seat at our next complimentary Luncheon and Seminar Series. Call 443.578.8008.

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Health Shorts No need for Pap smears after 65 If you’re over 65, you may no longer need to see your clinician for a Pap smear every year. In March, both the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force and American Cancer Society released new recommendations on cervical cancer screening.

The groups say women over 65 can stop

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OCTOBER 2012 — BALTIMORE BEACON

having this annual screening, provided they’ve had at least three negative Pap smears or two negative human papillomavirus (HPV) tests in the last 10 years and they aren’t at high risk for cervical cancer.

Women who’ve had their cervix removed with a hysterectomy also don’t need to be screened. Up to age 65, women should have either a Pap smear every three years, or a combination of a Pap smear and HPV test every five years. As with any health guidelines, it’s important to discuss cervical cancer screening with your doctor, taking into account your unique risks for the disease.

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If you’re having unprotected sex with a new partner, also talk to your doctor about getting tested for HPV, as well as for other sexually transmitted diseases.

— Harvard Women’s Health Watch

Prolong your life with healthy habits Practicing seven healthy lifestyle habits might reduce your risk of dying from heart disease or any other cause, according to a study published online in the Journal of the American Medical Association.

The American Heart Association calls these steps the “Simple 7” — 1) Exercise at least five days a week; 2) lower cholesterol to under 200 mg/dL; 3) eat a heart-healthy diet; 4) manage blood pressure; 5) keep body mass index under 25, 6) reduce blood sugar; and 7) don’t smoke.

The study, which used survey information from nearly 45,000 adults, found that people who met six or more of these goals had a 51 percent lower risk of death from any cause, and a 76 percent lower risk of death from heart disease compared to people who met one or fewer goals.

Only 10 percent of people surveyed said they were meeting six of the goals, and less than 2 percent were achieving all seven goals.

The good news from this study is that

there is a lot we can do to help ourselves if we make important lifestyle changes.

— Harvard Women’s Health Watch

Soft drinks may increase stroke risk Pop. Soda. Cola. No matter what you call soft drinks, they’re among the unhealthiest beverages in this country. Sugar-sweetened soft drinks have been linked with coronary artery disease and its risk factors, including obesity, high blood lipid levels, hypertension and diabetes.

And although low-calorie sodas have not been extensively studied, there’s new information that both sugar-sweetened and diet soft drinks may increase the risk of stroke, according to a study in the May issue of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.

The finding comes from an analysis of two long-term studies, the Nurses’ Health Study, which began in 1976 with 121,700 women, and the Health Professionals Follow-Up Study, which started in 1986 with 51,529 men.

Every few years, participants in both studies complete questionnaires about their health and diet. This allows reSee HEALTH SHORTS, page 9

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BALTIMORE BEACON — OCTOBER 2012

From page 8 searchers to see relationships between food choices and medical conditions that arise over time.

In this study, researchers looked at the number and type of strokes that occurred over a 22- to 28-year period. They compared this information with the consumption of low-calorie caffeinated colas, caffeine-free colas, other low-calorie soft drinks and their sugar-sweetened counterparts.

All findings were adjusted for factors that might influence stroke risk, such as vegetable and red meat intake, smoking, hormone replacement therapy, age, parental history of heart attack and stroke, and exercise.

What they found was a red flag: Sugarsweetened and diet soft drinks alike were associated with a higher risk of stroke, particularly in women.

The more sugar-sweetened soft drinks the women drank, the higher their risk of ischemic stroke. Even more alarming was the significant risk of hemorrhagic stroke with increasing amounts of diet soda consumed.

The number of hemorrhagic strokes that occurred in men was too small to draw a comparison with soda consumption.

The questionnaires also asked about consumption of other beverages, and here there is some good news: Coffee was associated with a 9 to 13 percent lower risk of

stroke, and skim milk with an 11 percent lower risk than soft drinks. Tea and orange juice were also safer, but the comparison was not as dramatic.

— Harvard Heart Letter

New knee can help your heart Here’s another reason to get that knee replacement you’ve been considering. A new study presented at the 2012 Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons finds that adults with osteoarthritis face lower odds of developing heart failure by having a total knee replacement.

The study did not show a direct cause and effect, or prove definitively that a total knee replacement (TKR) could improve cardiovascular health. However, the procedure does allow the recipient to exercise again, which can lead to better heart health.

“These days, total knee replacement lasts a long time. After 20 years of implantation, 80 percent of new joints survive.

That’s better than cars, washing machines and refrigerators,” said Dr. Donald Reilly, assistant clinical professor of Orthopedic Surgery at Harvard Medical School.

“The large majority of U.S. surgeons do a resurfacing operation,” said Reilly. In resurfacing, surgeons remove damaged cartilage at the ends of the thigh and shin bones, then implant metal and plastic com-

ponents to act as the new surface of the joint. They may also resurface the underside of the knee cap.

Sometimes, only part of the surface of the knee bones needs to be resurfaced.

This is called a partial total knee replacement. The procedures are reliable, with very few problems.

Complications that can require repeat surgery — like infection, instability, wear, fracture and loosening — occur at a rate of about 1 percent per year.

But even today’s advanced TKRs come with a long recovery. “We have gotten better with pain management after total knee re-

placement, but the postoperative course is hard and takes substantial effort in physical therapy by the patient,” explained Reilly.

“Patients who are in good shape can expect to climb stairs with crutches three to five days after surgery and walk comfortably on crutches by four weeks.”

Reilly said physical therapy typically lasts two months and it may take six months for a patient to be able to climb the stairs without assistance. But most people are happy to have full use of their knee again.

“Four out of five people are glad they had their knee replaced,” said Reilly.

— Harvard Health Letter

Getting you back to your life.

Rehabilitation and Skilled Nursing

©2011 HCR Healthcare, LLC

Health shorts

Dulaney – 410.828.6500 Ruxton – 410.821.9600 Towson – 410.828.9494 www.manorcare.com

BEACON BITS

Sept. 29

FREE SEMINAR ON IBD

The Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America is hosting a free educational seminar open to the public on Saturday, Sept. 29, from 8:30 to 11 a.m. at the New Psalmist Baptist Church, 6020 Marian Dr. The title of the program is “IBD (Inflammatory Bowel Diseases): What Every African American Needs to Know.” To register or for more information, call 1-800-6185583 or visit online at www.ccfa.org/AfricanAmericanEducationDay.

9

Experience the Warmth at Springwell.

Come tour our beautiful, newly designed Independent & Assisted Living residences and feel it for yourself.

888-805-1123 www.Springwellsl.com

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Health Studies Page

OCTOBER 2012 — BALTIMORE BEACON

THE PLACE TO LOOK FOR INFORMATION ON AREA CLINICAL TRIALS

Researchers study depression and aging

By Carol Sorgen Depression in late life has often been dismissed as a normal part of the aging process — a psychological reaction to physical limitations and to stressors, such as the loss of loved ones or the demands of caregiving.

But an increasing body of research has shown that depression has a biological

basis. There are changes in brain chemicals when someone is depressed.

Two doctors at Johns Hopkins Bayview have developed a unique program of research enabling them to directly study changes in brain structure and brain chemistry that distinguish depression from normal aging. They are currently

Want to Prevent Falls in the Elderly?

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

You will receive:

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

CALL TODAY!

Do You Have Knee Arthritis and Difficulty Sleeping?

Volunteers NEEDED for a Clinical Trial on New Non-drug treatment for problem sleeping Researchers at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine are looking for volunteers to participate in a research study examining new ways of treating insomnia, in people with osteoarthritis in their knee.  To participate in this study, you must be: • At least 50 years of age OR 35 years of age and older with prior diagnosis of knee osteoarthritis • Have frequent knee pain • Interested in sleeping better  This study involves: • Sleep studies conducted in your home • Sensory testing and knee exam at Johns Hopkins • Meeting with sleep specialist to discuss ways to improve sleep • Additional optional medical tests • All examinations, parking, & tests are provided at no cost.  Compensation up to $870.00

looking for volunteers both with and without depression to assist in this study.

Symptoms of depression Symptoms of depression include feelings of sadness or hopelessness, loss of energy, loss of interest in or inability to enjoy pleasurable activities, changes in appetite (increase or loss of appetite) or sleeping patterns (too much or too little sleep), and problems with concentration and memory.

Depressed individuals also have greater physical disability and an increased risk of developing cognitive decline and later dementia.

Over the past decade, the work of Dr. Gwenn Smith and Dr. Christopher Marano, both professors of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at Johns Hopkins, has shown important differences in brain circuit activity in depressed compared to non-depressed elders, as well as the effects of antidepressant medications on brain function.

For example, they found that the brain circuits responsible for mood, concentration and memory are actually hyperactive in people with depression.

During a course of antidepressant treatment, the individuals who show the great-

est improvement in mood and memory also show the greatest decrease in this brain circuit activity, to the levels observed in non-depressed individuals.

The researchers are now using brain imaging methods to understand the specific biological mechanisms to explain the hyperactivity of brain circuits and the disabling symptoms observed. It is hoped this will help them develop effective, targeted treatments for these symptoms.

Participate in a study Researchers are now seeking participants 55 and older for a study that involves a comprehensive assessment of mood and memory, as well as medical conditions such as diabetes and hypertension that have been associated with depression.

People with and without depression may take part in the study. Those who do not have depression will serve as the “control” group.

The study will also help the researchers understand why having depression increases the risk of cognitive decline.

A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan is performed to examine changes in See HEALTH STUDY, page 12

BEACON BITS

Sept. 22+

FREE SCREENINGS FOR KIDNEY DISEASE The National Kidney Foundation of Maryland will hold the follow-

ing free kidney health screenings: Saturday, Sept. 22, Genesis Bible Fellowship Church, 6010 Reisterstown Rd., 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Saturday, Oct. 27, Mayor’s Latino Health Fair – Sacred Heart of Jesus Church Hall, 600 S. Conkling St., 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and Saturday, November 3, Kedesh House of Prayer, 2500 W. Lombard St., 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. No appointments are needed for the screening, and any adult can participate. Lasting about 20 minutes, the screening includes a blood test, as well as blood pressure and weight checks. For more information, call (410) 494-8545 or visit www.kidneymd.org.

Are you over 60 and feeling depressed?

Symptoms of depression in older adults are common yet often go undetected. Symptoms could include feelings of sadness or hopelessness, loss of energy, inability to enjoy pleasurable activities, changes in appetite or sleeping patterns, or poor concentration/memory.

If you are feeling depressed, not taking antidepressant medication and in good physical health, you may be eligible to participate in a research study involving treatment.

Qualified people will participate at no cost to them and will be compensated for their time and transportation.

Approved 8/16/10

Michael T. Smith, Ph.D., Principal Investigator Protocol: NA_00011802 Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine

For information, please call (410) 550-7906

For more information about the research study, please call:

410-550-4192 Approved February 21, 2012

IRB Protocol No: NA_00021615 Principal Investigator: Gwenn Smith, PhD

More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com | Fitness & Health

BALTIMORE BEACON — OCTOBER 2012

11

Mental healthcare needs are growing

By Lauran Neergaard Getting older does not just mean a risk for physical ailments like heart disease and creaky knees: A new report finds as many as 1 in 5 American seniors has a mental health or substance abuse problem.

And as the population rapidly ages over the next two decades, millions of baby boomers may have a hard time finding care and services for mental health problems such as depression because the nation is woefully lacking in doctors, nurses and other health workers trained for their special needs, according to the report by the Institute of Medicine.

Instead, the country is focused mostly on preparing for the physical health needs of what has been called the silver tsunami.

“The burden of mental illness and substance abuse disorders in older adults in the United States borders on a crisis,” wrote Dr. Dan Blazer of Duke University, who chaired the Institute of Medicine panel that investigated the issue. “Yet this crisis is largely hidden from the public and many of those who develop policy and programs to care for older people.”

A common and growing problem Already, at least 5.6 million to 8 million Americans age 65 and older have a mental health condition or substance abuse disorder, the report found, calling that a conservative estimate that does not include a number of disorders. Depressive disorders and psychiatric symptoms related to dementia are the most common.

While the panel could not make precise projections, those numbers are sure to grow as the number of seniors nearly doubles by 2030, said report co-author Dr. Peter Rabins, a psychiatrist at Johns Hopkins University.

How much substance abuse treatment for seniors will be needed is a particular

question, as rates of illegal drug use are higher in people currently in their 50s than in previous generations.

Mental health experts welcomed the report. “This is a wake-up call for many reasons,” said Dr. Ken Duckworth of the National Alliance on Mental Illness. The coming need for geriatric mental healthcare “is quite profound for us as a nation, and something we need to attend to urgently,” he said.

More difficult to treat with age

most common time for onset of depression.

But when they do occur in older adults, the report found that they are too often overlooked and tend to be more complex.

Among the reasons: • People over 65 almost always have physical health problems at the same time that can mask or distract from the mental health needs. The physical illnesses — and medications used for them — also can complicate treatment.

For example, up to a third of people who

require long-term steroid treatment develop mood problems that may require someone knowledgeable about both the medical and mental health issues to determine whether it is best to cut back the steroids or add an antidepressant, Rabins said.

On the other side, older adults with untreated depression are less likely to have their diabetes, high blood pressure and other physical conditions under control — and conSee MENTAL HEALTH, page 13

Merely getting older does not make mental health problems more likely to occur, Rabins said, noting that middle age is the

RESEARCH STUDY PARTICIPANTS NEEDED The Johns Hopkins University is currently recruiting men and women for a study examining the relationship between sleep apnea and glucose metabolism.

Eligible participants will receive a sleep study, blood test, EKG and other medical tests.

Participants will be compensated up to $860 for their time.

Subjects must be between 21 and 75, and in good health.

Please call 410-550-4891 and ask for Kelly Devine, Project Coordinator, for more information.

The

Study Principal Investigator: Naresh Punjabi, M.D., Ph.D. Application Number: NA_00036672

STUDIES ON ANEMIA Are you 65 years or older?

Have you been recently diagnosed with anemia?

OR Have you had anemia in the past? en you may be interested in: “THE JOHNS HOPKINS registry of older adults with anemia” • Several new research studies are being designed by researchers at Johns Hopkins University specifically for older adults with anemia.

• By volunteering to join our anemia registry, you will be kept up to date on anemia research studies that match your situation.

Call us at 410-550-2113 to join the Anemia Registry today!

We can conduct the study in your home. No travel is required. If you choose to come to Bayview to participate, your parking will be paid.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Principal Investigator: Dr. Jeremy Walston, MD. IRB application No: NA_00035307

I am a patient who had severe foot pain for 2 years, with no relief in sight....by the end of the 4 days I was 85% pain free in both feet. I thank God for Dr. Goldman and his passion for research in healing people with foot and leg pain.

– Alvin, Baltimore

How fortunate I feel to have found a doctor who could not only diagnose an underlying problem that many specialists missed, but who has been able to find a painless and rapid method of relieving the worst symptoms.

– Susan, Baltimore

As a podiatrist with over 30 years experience, I have always focused on conservative treatment of foot and leg pain. I find that most people with foot or leg symptoms (arthritic, aching, burning, cramping or difficulty walking) , even those who have had other treatments, including surgery of the foot (or back), can be helped, usually in 1or 2 visits.

— Dr. Stuart Goldman

Stuart Goldman, DPM

410-235-2345

4419 Falls Road, Suite A, Baltimore 4000 Old Court Road, Suite 301, Pikesville

Fellow American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons Marquis Who’s Who in Medicine and Healthcare Author, multiple articles on Foot & Leg Symptoms

H elP F orYour F eet.C oM

12

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OCTOBER 2012 — BALTIMORE BEACON

Look beneath the surface of angry family Dear Solutions: Until recently, I thought that my daughter and I had a special relationship and that we were really friends.

I’m still working, and I’m very active and independent, and that’s how she always thinks of me.

But a couple of months ago, we traveled together to a very different foreign country and stayed with a friend of hers who lives there. We were in very tiny quarters, in addition to which I had jet lag and couldn’t move around or get oriented as quickly as the two younger women.

My daughter got very annoyed and critical, and we kept arguing. It was as though the two of them formed an al-

liance, and I was left out.

I was very hurt and angry, but I thought it would pass. Now she calls me and says it means “We can’t travel together anymore.” It feels like I’m shut out and rejected, and my head hurts.

— Headache Dear Headache: The reason your head hurts is because you got it caught in the generation gap.

There’s friends and there’s friends. And there’s travel and there’s travel.

Mother and daughter friendship is wonderful as long as it’s recognized for what it is. It’s not the same as peer friendships.

There’s a real gap involved — age gap, values gap, energy gap, role gap.

Westminster House Apartments • Affordable housing for Seniors • Utilities included/underground parking available • In the heart of Mount Vernon • Only steps from the theater, library, churches, shopping and restaurants • Next door to The Walters Art Gallery

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Your daughter has always seen the to return. When she didn’t, I stood up strong parent who was her “friend.” Sud- and tried to wave to her. He told me in an angry tone to sit down. denly she had to see the “older I didn’t, and called to her. woman” who was vulnerable He got very angry and and couldn’t keep up. yelled, “Sit down, you’re The inner child in her got not my mother.” scared. What happened to I’m feeling hurt and constrong, indestructible Mommy? fused. I was just trying to She also was with a friend help so that he wouldn’t do her own age and had expected without breakfast. I don’t you to be “one of he girls,” or understand his reactions. she wouldn’t have brought What did I do wrong? you. So she was embarrassed.

SOLUTIONS — Confused Wife Feeling scared and embarBy Helen Oxenberg, Dear Confused: rassed makes her angry. Her MSW, ACSW He can do without breaksolution, she says, is “don’t fast more easily than he can travel with me.” The rest of the sentence is “because I don’t want to see do without his sense of adulthood, i.e., control. That’s what you were taking from you that way.”

A strong dose of reality is needed here. him, and he wasn’t willing to trade that for You both need to know and accept that you a stack of pancakes!

You meant well, but try to understand are older, and although you and she can that his surgery has probably made him feel still be friends, you can’t be peers.

Then there’s travel. If it’s important to vulnerable and a little helpless. He’s trying you to travel with her, choose your destina- to compensate for this by insisting on helptions carefully. Don’t go to places that are so ing himself, even if it doesn’t always work.

You can only ask him if you can help in far away and so different that you become such situations. But when he says no, back disoriented. You may get bigger gains out off. of shorter mileage.

Dear Solutions: Dear Solutions: My granddaughter and her boyfriend My husband is recovering from re— they consider themselves unofficialcent surgery, and we went out to breakfast with friends. He ordered pancakes, ly engaged — want to rent an apartwhich came cold and tasteless.

He just sat waiting for the waitress See SOLUTIONS, page 13

Health study From page 10 brain structure, including brain vascular disease, which may contribute to the mood and memory symptoms.

Position emission tomography (PET) scans are performed to look at serotonin — the brain chemical that has been associated with depressed mood, sleep and appetite problems — as well as a brain protein that is increased in patients with memory problems such as Alzheimer’s disease.

After these assessments are completed, the depressed individuals begin a course of antidepressant treatment and are fol-

lowed closely, including follow-up memory testing and a PET scan to measure directly the effects of the medication on the serotonin system.

Participants are compensated for their time, and transportation is provided to the study visits.

According to the researchers, the study will provide important information regarding the mechanisms involved in the response to antidepressants, which is essential to the development of more effective treatments. In the near future, the researchers plan to test new treatments based on the findings of their research.

If you are interested in participating in the research, call (410) 550-4192.

BEACON BITS

Sept. 27

CANCER FAIR The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns

Hopkins Bayview Medical Center is hosting a free cancer fair for the community.

It will offer an overview of cancer programs, services, information, education and multidisciplinary approaches to managing cancer treatments and caring for patients. Exhibitors include local nonprofit groups and Johns Hopkins Bayview oncology departments and services. The fair will take place on Thursday, Sept.

27 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. outside the entrance to the Francis Scott Key Pavilion, Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center, 5300 Eastern Ave. For more information, contact Karen Tong at (410) 550-0128 or ktong4@jhmi.edu.

More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com | Fitness & Health

BALTIMORE BEACON — OCTOBER 2012

Mental health From page 11 sequently wind up costing a lot more to treat.

• Age alters how people’s bodies metabolize alcohol and drugs, including prescription drugs. That can increase the risk of dangerous overdoses, and worsen or even trigger substance abuse problems.

Additional issues • Grief is common in old age as spouses, other relatives and friends die. It may be difficult to distinguish between grief and major depression.

That also means a loss of the support systems that earlier in life could have helped people better recover from a mental health problem, said Dr. Paul D.S. Kirwin, president of the American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry.

Solutions From page 12 ment together but can’t pay the security deposit. He’s still in school, and she’s just stated a new job.

She’s asking me for help. I have a good relationship with them, and the boyfriend will be out of school in a year, but I don’t know the best way to handle this about money. What do you suggest?

— Not Sure

Adding stress may be loss of a professional identity with retirement, and the role reversal that happens when children start taking care of older parents.

“There’ll never be enough geriatric psychiatrists or geriatric medicine specialists to take care of this huge wave of people that are aging,” Kirwin said.

The Institute of Medicine report recognizes that. It says all health workers who see older patients — including primary care physicians, nurses, physicians’ assistants and social workers — need some training to recognize the signs of geriatric mental health problems and provide at least basic care.

To get there, it called for changes in how Medicare and Medicaid pay for mental health services, stricter licensing requirements for health workers, and for the government to fund appropriate training programs.

— AP Dear Not: Make this strictly lend-lease. You lend, they lease; you write agreement, they repay. As long as you don’t object to their living arrangements and you make this strictly a business arrangement, it should work. Good luck. © Helen Oxenberg, 2012. Questions to be considered for this column may be sent to: The Beacon, P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915. You may also email the author at helox72@comcast.net. To inquire about reprint rights, call (609) 655-3684.

BEACON BITS

Ongoing

FREE TAI CHI CLASSES

Tai Chi instructor Christine Obriecht teaches free classes at Trinity United Methodist Church at 2100 Westchester Ave. in Catonsville. A beginner’s class takes place on Monday evenings at 8 p.m. An intermediate class is offered at 7 p.m. For questions or more information, email christineo@att.net.

Ongoing

BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT AT THE LIFE CENTER

The Life Center at 445 Defense Highway in Annapolis is offering an array of bereavement support groups and workshops this fall for those in the community who are experiencing grief. Registration is required for all groups and workshops. Community members are welcome to attend support groups at a fee of $60 per person. There is no fee for Hospice of the Chesapeake families. Registration is required for all groups. For a complete schedule and to register, call (410) 987-2129.

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OCTOBER 2012 — BALTIMORE BEACON

Does drinking water help you lose weight?

Q: I’ve read that drinking more though the effect was larger, it was shown water can be a good weight-loss only briefly. Even if repeated several times a method. Is that right? day, researchers estimate that A: In some small studies, it would result in weight loss of drinking 16 ounces of water beonly a couple pounds over a fore meals has helped decrease whole year. calorie consumption and imOther claims that drinking proved weight loss among midwater supports weight loss dle aged and older adults particthrough washing out fat are ipating in weight loss programs. not founded on research at It also seemed to help them all. It seems more likely that maintain their weight loss after if drinking water works, it the programs ended. does so by helping you eat We need more studies to NUTRITION less. know if this really works. If it WISE Other studies suggest that does, it’s not clear whether it By Karen Collins, consuming more water-rich would be due to reducing MS, RD, CDM foods may be even more effechunger or if it has direct effects tive at helping reduce calorie on metabolism. consumption. For example, in a study in You may hear claims that drinking more which people consumed the same amount of water will rev up your metabolism so you water at a meal as a beverage or in soup, lose weight by burning more calories. those who ate the water-rich soup consumed However, I can find only a couple of con- fewer calories. trolled studies that tested this.

Q: Does selenium reduce risk of These studies show a small increase in prostate cancer? How much do we calorie burning after cold water was con- need, and what foods supply it? sumed. This involved a bit over 16 ounces of A: Selenium is a mineral and is one of cold water in adults, and proportionately many antioxidants in our food that may help smaller, but still substantial, amounts in over- lower risk of prostate and other cancers. weight children.

However it’s important not to overdo it.

However, in one study, the increase in The AICR/WCRF expert report and its metabolic rate was minimal; in the other, al- updates found that foods containing seleni-

um help lower risk for prostate cancer. In addition, a recent analysis of all related studies confirms that higher body levels of selenium are linked with lower risk of prostate cancer (especially the aggressive form), but only up to a point.

And in a study where men took supplements of 200 micrograms (mcg.) daily, only those who started with low blood levels of selenium had reduced prostate cancer risk.

Those with medium or higher levels did not.

The recommended Dietary Reference Intake (DRI) for selenium is 55 mcg. for men and women. In the United States, almost everyone gets well over the recommended intake.

Seafood, meat and grains are the major dietary sources. You get 35 to 75 mcg. in a three-ounce portion of fish, 23-30 mcg. in a 3ounce portion of poultry or meat, and 6-19 mcg. in one-half cup of pasta or rice.

Vegetables and fruits mostly supply only

small amounts, except for the 9 to 18 mcg. in a half-cup of cooked mushrooms. For that matter, you can get the entire RDA in one Brazil nut.

To avoid nerve damage, hair loss and digestive disturbances, the maximum total selenium from food and supplements considered safe is 400 mcg. per day. Selenium intakes too low and too high both pose overall cancer risk.

The American Institute for Cancer Research offers a Nutrition Hotline, 1-800-8438114, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. This free service allows you to ask questions about diet, nutrition and cancer. A registered dietitian will return your call, usually within three business days.

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

BEACON BITS

Ongoing

OFFER YOUR COMPANIONSHIP There are seniors in the Baltimore area who need your compan-

ionship and care. Volunteer to help them for the activities you enjoy, on a schedule that works best for you. Visit ElderHelpers.org to create a volunteer profile and begin today.

Missing the view? Could be Cataracts.

Cataracts affect nearly 20.5 million Americans age 40 and older, and they can occur among young adults or children.

The Krieger Eye Institute offers a full range of ophthalmic consultation services. Our experts are at the forefront of diabetic eye disease research and patient care. General eye care is available as well as specialized consultations in glaucoma, diabetic eye disease and cataracts.

Two fully-staffed office locations are: Krieger Eye Institute Sinai Hospital of Baltimore Morton Mower, M.D. Medical Office Building, Sixth Floor 2411 W. Belvedere Avenue Baltimore, Maryland 21215

Krieger Eye Institute at Quarry Lake Suite 180 2700 Quarry Lake Drive Baltimore, Maryland 21209

To schedule your appointment with one of our ophthalmologists or to learn more about the Krieger Eye Institute, call 410.601.6190 or log onto www.kriegereye.org

BALTIMORE BEACON — OCTOBER 2012

More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

Money

15

MEET THE GINNIE MAES Ginnie Mae funds, which invest in insured mortgages, offer good returns THE ABCS OF ANNUITIES Learn the ins and outs of annuities, which provide income for life LOWER YOUR PROPERTY TAXES Apply for the Homestead Property Tax Credit by December 31 GOING FOR BROKE Understand the pros and cons of personal bankruptcy prior to filing

Starbucks shares expected to perk up

By Jennifer Schonberger The normally caffeinated shares of Starbucks (symbol SBUX) have lost some of their buzz lately. That gives investors a chance to take a stake in this premier growth company at a price that improves their chances for robust returns in the years ahead.

Starbucks shares are hardly dirt-cheap.

At a recent price of $49, they trade at nearly 25 times estimated earnings for the next four quarters. That figure might seem high, but it isn’t compared with analysts’ estimates of Starbucks’s earnings growth rate over the next three to five years.

“Starbucks is at the beginning of a new growth phase,” said Brian Sozzi, chief stock strategist for NBG Productions, an independent research firm.

Packaged coffee takes off One reason for anticipated earnings acceleration is Starbucks’s effort to expand its packaged-coffee business. “We fully intend to become a global consumer-packaged-goods company, with all of it centered around coffee,” said Troy Alstead, Starbucks’s chief financial officer.

Grocery sales currently account for only 7 percent of Starbucks’s business. But, said Alstead, “over time, the consumer packaged business has the chance to be equal in size to our retail-store business.”

That would mean going well beyond beans and instant coffee to new lines of food and juices, he said. Last November, Starbucks bought Evolution Fresh, a company that sells fresh fruit and vegetable juices, and it is developing a chain of juice bars.

And Starbucks still has numerous ways

to boost its profits from coffee. In a bold move in 2010, the company took back control of its packaged-coffee distribution from Kraft, enabling it to demand better shelf space and push more sales of its products.

Brewing up new deals Starbucks also struck a deal to license its coffee and Tazo-brand tea to Green Mountain Coffee Roasters for use in Green Mountain’s Keurig single-cup coffee makers.

In just the first five months, Starbucks shipped more than 230 million K-Cups, enough to gain a 21-percent share of the single-cup business. And this fall, Starbucks will roll out a premium espresso machine for home use.

Beyond grocery-store sales, Starbucks is expanding into fast-growing emerging markets. The company has been in China since

1999 and plans to triple the number of its shops there, to 1,500, by 2015. Sales at existing stores, a key indicator of success, have increased at an annual clip of more than 20 percent over the past two years in China.

Then there’s Brazil, one of the world’s most avid coffee-consuming countries.

Starbucks has fewer than 50 stores there now, but Alstead said the firm plans to open “hundreds of stores.” Moreover, Starbucks’ first stores in India are due to open shortly. All told, Starbucks now books 22 percent of its sales abroad, a testament to the universal appeal of coffee.

Jennifer Schonberger is a contributing editor at Kiplinger’s Personal Finance magazine.

Send your questions and comments to moneypower@kiplinger.com. And for more on this and similar money topics, visit www.Kiplinger.com. © 2012 Kiplinger’s Personal Finance

Bonds lure investors to emerging markets

By Mark Jewell Investors continue to pour their money into bonds. And those willing to accept a bit more risk in the bond market are finding that they are being appropriately rewarded. Emerging market bond mutual funds are among the top performers so far this year.

Over the last 10 years, they have posted an average annualized return of nearly 12 percent. That’s more than double the return of the Standard & Poor’s 500 index, as well as a broad index of the U.S. bond market.

These funds buy bonds issued by governments and companies in a group of about 20 fast-growing nations including Brazil, Russia, India and China. Investors can choose from a dozen mutual funds whose 10-year returns eclipse that of the JPMorgan Emerging Market bond index.

Overall, government finances in the emerging markets are in better shape than in developed nations, including the U.S. Growth has recently slowed in countries such as China and India, but it’s important to keep perspective. Their economies continue to expand at a much faster clip than the U.S. What’s more, demographic trends in emerging market nations generally are more favorable than in the U.S., with its aging population.

Changing investment landscape Renowned bond investor Michael Hasenstab has far more of his fund’s portfolio in emerging nations, such as Indonesia and Mexico, than in larger bond markets in the U.S., Japan, Germany and France. Hasenstab’s fund, Templeton Global Bond (TPINX), can invest across the globe, but he’s largely avoiding developed nations.

“The tables have completely turned. The countries that were the biggest credit risks now have some of the best credit,” Hasenstab said. In the U.S. and many other developed countries, “no one has very strong growth...and fiscal policy is a mess.”

The brighter outlook in developing nations is a key reason why emerging markets bond funds have posted an average return of nearly 8 percent this year. While U.S Treasury yields are near all-time lows, emerging market bond fund yields have held steady at around 6 percent since 2009. That’s about four times the current yield of a 10-year U.S. Treasury bond.

Before investing in emerging market bonds, however, be aware of three areas of risk that can affect your decision.

1. Interest rate risk T. Rowe Price Emerging Markets Bond (PREMX) has generated an average annualized return of 12 percent ever since Mike

Conelius began as manager in 1994. But he acknowledges that several factors came together over the past dozen years, creating what he calls “a nice perfect storm.” Those include rapid economic growth in emerging markets, a global bond market rally, and rising commodity prices that have benefited many foreign producers of oil and minerals.

One key risk that Conelius sees for bond investors in general is the prospect that currently ultra-low interest rates will rise. When interest rates rise, bond prices decline because investors can purchase newly issued bonds paying higher interest than those issued previously. That could lead to smaller investment returns or even losses for diversified bond fund shareholders and for investors in individual bonds who don’t hold them until they mature.

2. Volatility and exchange rate risks Emerging market bonds are more likely to deliver sharp ups and downs than most domestic bonds. Reasons include the political and economic instability common in many developing nations.

An additional layer of risk comes from currency exchange rates. A rapid shift in rates can have a big impact on short-term investment performance.

That’s a key reason why emerging markets funds were the top-performing bond

fund category in the first quarter, averaging a 6.9 percent return. But emerging market funds finished the second quarter with a 0.07 percent loss as the dollar strengthened against most currencies while Europe struggled to contain its debt crisis.

Furthermore, when governments in emerging markets began issuing debt in the 1990s, the bonds were primarily issued in U.S. dollars to attract foreign investors.

But as the marketplace matured, some governments began issuing bonds in their own currencies. That can create exchange rate risks and opportunities for U.S. investors.

A savvy fund manager can navigate the currency markets to maximize returns, but not all the time. To see how much currency risk a manager is taking on, check fund disclosures to learn how much of the portfolio is in dollar-denominated bonds versus local currency bonds. The higher the percentage in local currency, the greater the risk.

3. Understand what you’re investing in Most emerging markets bond funds invest primarily in so-called sovereign bonds issued by governments. But a growing number invest primarily in corporate debt, or in both types of bonds.

What’s more, many funds don’t limit See BONDS, page 16

16

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OCTOBER 2012 — BALTIMORE BEACON

Ginnie Maes offer safety and good returns

By Mark Jewell Investors continue to place an unusually high premium on safety. How else to explain the record low yields they’re willing to accept for lending to Uncle Sam? The rate on the 10-year Treasury note sank as low as 1.39 percent in late July, although it bounced up a quarter of a percentage point in August. That’s still paltry payback for locking up their money for a decade.

Investors can earn significantly more by taking on just a bit more risk. Yields of mutual funds that specialize in governmentbacked mortgage bonds known as Ginnie Maes are currently more than double those of Treasurys maturing over a similar number of years.

Invest in mortgages These funds invest in pools of home mortgages that carry the explicit guarantee of the Government National Mortgage Association, or Ginnie Mae. Investors in Ginnie Mae bonds are ensured full and timely payment of principal and interest, regardless of whether borrowers make payments.

“If you’re conservative, and looking for

that steady diet of payments, Ginnie Mae funds can be a great option,” said Jeff Tjornehoj, a bond fund analyst with Lipper Inc. It’s decent income for risk-averse investors who may appreciate the monthly cash distributions they can elect to receive from their fund’s investment returns.

The 15 funds specializing in Ginnie Maes — most bearing the abbreviation “GNMA” — have posted an average total return of 5 percent over the last 12 months. Returns have ranged as high as 7.1 percent for Payden GNMA (PYGWX) to as low as 3 percent.

Learn more before you invest The category’s recent solid performance doesn’t necessarily mean that Ginnie Mae funds will be a good addition to any portfolio. Here are five key considerations: 1. Steady returns Expect smoother returns than you’ll get from higher-risk segments of the bond market. For example, in 2008, the Vanguard GNMA fund (VFIIX) returned 7 percent, as Ginnie Maes offered safety during the financial crisis. Compare that with the 2008 losses averaging 26 percent for funds

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RESOURCE CENTER FOR ENTREPRENEURS

The Small Business Resource Center offers assistance to entrepreneurs with everything from preparing business plans to finding insurance for their employees. The center is free to the public and has a PC-based business library with literature and videos. Visit at 1101 E.33rd St., Suite C307, Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, call (443) 451-7160 or visit www.sbrcbaltimore.com.

Ongoing

TUNE IN TO “THE TIME OF YOUR LIFE”

Learn about the latest issues affecting Baltimore County’s older adults by tuning in to “The Time of Your Life” on Channel 25 on Comcast or Verizon (check your TV listings for times). The show may also be seen on the Internet at www.baltimorecountymd.gov/videogallery and click on “Time of Your Life.”

specializing in high-yield corporate bonds.

2. Not all are alike These funds are required to invest at least 80 percent of fund assets in Ginnie Mae bonds. But managers have leeway with the other 20 percent. Non-GNMA mortgage investments can be found in their portfolios, as well as other government bonds such as Treasurys. So returns can vary significantly from fund to fund.

Some bearing “Government” in their name but not “GNMA” invest in Ginnie Maes as well, but don’t focus on them. Although those funds’ broader investment mandates can sometimes result in stronger returns, risks are typically lower at a fund that largely sticks with the agency’s guaranteed bonds.

3. Prepayment risk One unique aspect of Ginnie Maes makes them slightly riskier than other governmentguaranteed bonds. Declining interest rates means many homeowners are trying to refinance to less expensive mortgages, creating “prepayment risk” for Ginnie Mae funds.

When refinancing activity spikes, some of the higher-rate mortgages in Ginnie Mae funds are replaced by lower-rate mortgages. That squeezes the interest payments that a fund’s bond portfolio earns, and fund returns can be reduced. Typically, fund managers discuss their strategies for dealing with prepayment risk in quarterly commentaries sent to investors.

4. Rate risk

Just like those owning other types of bonds, Ginnie Mae investors could see returns shrink if interest rates rise. Market values for mortgage investments bought when rates were lower would drop as investors seek higher returns from newer mortgages paying higher rates.

Investors wishing to protect against this risk should check disclosures listing a fund’s duration — a measure of vulnerability to rising rates. Most Ginnie Mae funds currently have durations of 2.5 to 4.5. The bigger the number, the more risk an investor faces from a potential rate increase. However, that risk isn’t imminent. The Federal Reserve doesn’t expect to raise its benchmark rate until late 2014, at the earliest.

5. Costs count Ginnie Maes typically generate modest returns, and fund expenses can eat up much of what investors earn if they’re not careful. So pay close attention to fees. Vanguard’s Ginnie Mae fund charges the lowest among the group, with an expense ratio of 0.21 percent.

Even without considering costs, Tjornehoj, the Lipper analyst, said there’s plenty to like about these funds. For starters, there’s Ginnie Maes’ current yield advantage over Treasurys: “They stack up pretty well, given the low rate environment we’re in, and how richly priced the safest assets like Treasurys have become.”

— AP

Bonds

oped countries offer the prospect of higher returns, but with greater risks.

Check fund disclosures to see what proportion of a portfolio is invested in such countries, and assess whether it seems appropriate for your risk tolerance.

— AP

From page 15 themselves to the 20 or so countries generally defined as emerging markets. Some also invest in frontier markets, such as Bangladesh and Latvia. These less-devel-

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The ABCs of fixed and deferred annuities Guaranteed income for life, especially in grows on a tax-deferred basis; and the paythe aftermath of a deep recession and fi- out phase, during which you begin to receive scheduled payments. nancial crisis, sounds wonderThere are several types of deful. That must be why insurferred annuities to consider: ance companies are ramping • Fixed annuity: Insurup their marketing of annuance companies guarantee a ities. fixed interest rate for a cerDue to the complexity of tain period of time. At the end annuities, I’ll cover the basics of this period, the company this month, and then in the will declare a renewal interest next issue, I will set forth the rate and another guarantee pros and cons. period. Most guarantee a minAn annuity is a financial RETIRE SMART imum interest rate for the life contract issued by a life insurBy Jill Schlesinger of the contract. ance company that offers tax• Variable annuity: For investors who deferred savings and a choice of payout options (income for life, income for a cer- want access to more investment options, tain period of time or lump sum) to meet variable annuities offer “sub-accounts,” your needs in retirement. Because the which look like mutual funds inside of an contract enjoys tax-deferred treatment, the insurance policy.

• Equity index annuity: A blend beIRS may impose a 10 percent early withdrawal penalty for some distributions if tween a fixed and a variable, where the insurance company invests in a mix of bonds they are taken before age 59 1/2.

The concept of trading a lump sum of and stocks designed to return a targeted money for a stream of income is easy to un- percentage of a particular index (e.g., S&P derstand, but annuities come in lots of fla- 500). The owner does not control the invors, which can make them confusing. The vestment selection but can participate to a two big categories of annuities are “immedi- degree in stock market gains during a rising market. Conversely, if markets fall, the ate” and “deferred.”

In an immediate annuity, payments contract guarantees a minimum return, begin immediately or within one year of typically 3 percent. the policy’s issue. These contracts are also referred to as “single premium immediate Ask these questions annuities” or SPIAs because they are usuWhen an insurance salesman, a finanally purchased with a single payment. cial adviser or a broker broaches the topic SPIAs can help you manage the risk of out- of annuities with you, here are six quesliving your money, which is known as tions that you should immediately ask: “longevity risk.”

1. What type of annuity is this, and why do you recommend it for me?

Deferred annuities 2. Exactly how much will I pay in the A deferred annuity has two phases: the first year of the contract, and then how accumulation phase, during which you much in subsequent years? make regular payments and your money 3. What will be your first-year commis-

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sion on the contract, and what will you earn in subsequent years? Annuities are notoriously expensive (more on the fees in next month’s column), so you will want to understand the total costs, which include mortality and expense charges (“M&E”), administrative fees, underlying fund expenses, charges for special features, and the salesperson’s commission.

4. Have I already maxed out other taxdeferred vehicles? One of the big selling points of annuities is that they offer tax deferral. That’s great, but make sure that you are maximizing your 401(k) or IRA accounts first before investing in an annuity, because chances are, those are cheaper tax-deferred vehicles.

5. Should I tie up my money with this

contract? Once you sign up for an annuity, it’s hard to get your hands on that money, and it can be expensive to do so. Make sure you have ample liquidity outside of the annuity before taking the plunge.

6. How is this insurer rated by AM Best, S&P, Moody’s and Fitch? Before the financial crisis, this question seemed silly, but now we know that insurance companies can go broke. Since the success of an annuity is predicated on the survival of the insurance company, it’s important that the company be highly rated.

Jill Schlesinger, CFP, is the Editor-atLarge for www.CBSMoneyWatch.com. She welcomes comments and questions at askjill@moneywatch.com. © 2012 Tribune Media Services, Inc.

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COMMUNITY SERVICES ONLINE DIRECTORY The Maryland Community Services Locator website is an interac-

tive online directory that helps community members locate services that provide assistance with substance abuse, short-term housing, job readiness, adult education, health/mental health, emergency food assistance, family assistance, victim services and more. For more information, call (301) 405-9796 or visit the website: www.mdcsl.org.

Let us help you with life’s changes.

Susquehanna Trust & Investment Company can help you with: • Estate and gift concerns • Investment management • Tax strategies • Financial recordkeeping • Bill payments from your account • Sale of a home as an account service To learn more, call Ken Hoefer, Senior Vice President, at 410.316.0240, or email him at Kenneth.Hoefer@susquehanna.net.

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OCTOBER 2012 — BALTIMORE BEACON

Homeowners must apply for tax credit The Mayland Homestead Property Tax Credit is a property tax credit for homeowners who live in their own homes as their primary residence. The purpose of the credit is to keep the amount of assessed value a homeowner is taxed on from increasing more than 10 percent a year, with even

lower caps in many jurisdictions.

Howard County limits the maximum increase per year to 5 percent, and Baltimore County and City limit the increase to 4 percent.

For example, if your old assessment was for $100,000 and your new phased-in as-

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VA VOLUNTEERS NEEDED Volunteers are needed to assist with a new patient program at the

Baltimore and Perry Point VA Medical Centers. The program, Silent Nites, uses a variety of methods to help encourage veteran inpatients to sleep. Trained volunteers will visit inpatient rooms and offer soft hand massages, warm milk, soothing music, blanket warmers and anything else a patient might need to assist them in falling asleep. For more information or to sign up to volunteer, call Dallas Renniger for the Baltimore VA center at (410) 605-7100 or Rich Maichle for the Perry Point VA center at (410) 642-1039.

sessment for the coming year is $120,000 (a 20 percent increase), you would only be taxed on $104,000 (a maximum increase of 4 percent) if you live in Baltimore and have properly filed for the Homestead Property Tax Credit.

New buyers must apply for the credit within six months of purchase, while all other homeowners have until December 31, 2012.

Homestead Property Tax Credit application forms are available in Baltimore at the Maryland Access Program (MAP) office, 201 East Baltimore St., 15th floor. The office is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. For more information or to have a form mailed to you, call MAP at (410) 396-CARE (2273).

Forms may be printed from this web address: http://www.dat.state.md.us/sdatweb/ho

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mestead_application.pdf.

Homeowners in the Baltimore metropolitan area may also call (410) 767-2165 to receive an application by mail and to obtain your Real Property Account Number and Access Number (required to complete the application).

To file electronically, you need an Access Number. To have an application and Access Number emailed to you, send an email request to hcredit@dat.state.md.us.

Be sure to include your home address and the county where it is located.

The following clinics will be held at Baltimore senior centers to help homeowners apply for the credit. The clinics will be held from 1 to 2 p.m. on the dates indicated.

Oct. 1 Allen Senior Center 1404 S. Charles St. Oct. 3 John Booth Senior Center 229 ½ S. Eaton St. Oct. 5 Cherry Hill Senior Life Center 606 Cherry Hill Rd., Suite 201 Oct. 8 Forest Park Senior Center 4801 Liberty Heights Ave Oct. 10 Greenmount Senior Center 425 E. Federal St. Oct. 12 Harford Senior Center 4920 Harford Rd. Oct. 15 Hatton Senior Center 2825 Fait Ave. Oct. 17 Myerberg Senior Center 3101 Falls Rd. Oct. 19 Oliver Senior Center 1700 N. Gay St. Oct. 22 Sandtown Winchester Senior Center 1601 Baker St. Oct. 24 Waxter Senior Center 1000 Cathedral St. Oct. 26 Zeta Senior Center 4501 Reisterstown Rd.

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HELP HOSPICE PATIENTS

Amedisys Hospice of Greater Chesapeake is looking for volunteers to provide companionship to home hospice patients and their families. There is an urgent need for volunteers to visit patients in Rosedale, Essex, Middle River and Dundalk. To learn more, call Ann Reier at (410) 686-5635 or e-mail ann.reier@amedisys.com.

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Pros and cons of personal bankruptcy In my 12 years as a certified county- court-approved repayment plan. court mediator in Florida, one of the most Chapter 7 is for individuals who have litcommon questions I’ve heard tle property other than necesdefendants ask is, “Should I sities, and who have such file for bankruptcy?” It is a high debt that they cannot good question, but one that meet basic expenses. A should be directed to an expe“means test” determines rienced bankruptcy attorney, whether an individual’s inwho will be able to explain the come is low enough to be eliprocess, eligibility, costs and gible for Chapter 7 after appliavailable options in greater cable expenses. detail.

The process is relatively With so many individuals quick — it may take only a being sued because of large THE SAVINGS few months — and creditors outstanding debts for credit GAME cannot contact you during an cards, mortgages, car loans, By Elliot Raphaelson “automatic stay” (a court etc., it is important for people order that protects you from to consult with expert counsel to better creditors) or after your debts are disgrasp the advantages and disadvantages of charged. After you file the paperwork and bankruptcy. obtain the automatic stay, creditors cannot garnish wages, repossess autos or instiTwo types of filing tute foreclosures.

There are two forms of personal bankOne of the most significant advantages ruptcy: Chapter 13 and Chapter 7. of Chapter 7 is that most of your unseChapter 13 is for individuals who have cured debt gets discharged. Exceptions insignificant equity in property that they clude debts owed to the IRS, student loans, want to keep. Such individuals typically loans on property in which the creditor have regular income, but are behind on has a lien, and spousal and child support. payments because of debt. Chapter 13 alIndividuals in severe debt should conlows individuals to maintain their property sider bankruptcy because it can protect while catching up with their debt obliga- property from unsecured creditors. It can tions over three to five years through a provide protection for your home, car and

personal property.

A bankruptcy attorney will be able to explain other exemptions, which vary by state and often include insurance, pensions and wages. No employer can fire you because you file for bankruptcy.

While bankruptcy normally prevents the garnishment of wages, it is possible under some circumstances (as determined by state law) for creditors to garnish the wages of individuals without the ability to repay.

Also, a bankruptcy filing will not eliminate liens on property previously owned.

(However, in Chapter 13, many types of liens can be reduced or eliminated because of provisions in the bankruptcy code that allow filers to retain property they would otherwise lose.)

Bankruptcy disadvantages Bankruptcy filings will remain on your credit history for 10 years. Naturally, this can have an impact on your ability to borrow, although some creditors may feel that you will be in a better position to handle debt than you were before.

The legal fees of an experienced bankruptcy attorney can be substantial. For a Chapter 7 filing, administrative and filing fees are around $300, with additional attorney fees likely to be between $1,500 and

$2,000.

Total expenses for Chapter 13 will be more expensive. Most fees will have to be paid up front. In addition, according to the National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys, there will be additional costs for requisite pre-bankruptcy credit counseling and a credit education course.

Keep in mind that a previous bankruptcy affects the eligibility for a new filing.

You cannot file for Chapter 7 if you have previously done so within the past eight years, or the past six years for Chapter 13.

If you do consider filing, make sure to use an experienced bankruptcy attorney.

Your regular attorney may have a recommendation, and you can also ask the local bar association.

An excellent resource is The New Bankruptcy: Will it Work for You? (NOLO), by Stephen Elias. Nolo.com contains a nationwide lawyer directory with associated profiles.

In the current economy, many people are facing substantial debt problems because of job losses, health expenses, etc., and bankruptcy is certainly an option to consider.

Elliot Raphaelson welcomes your questions and comments at elliotraph@gmail.com. © 2012 Elliot Raphaelson. Distributed by Tribune Media Services, Inc.

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OCTOBER 2012 — BALTIMORE BEACON

Does your organization use senior volunteers or do you employ a number of seniors?

Careers Volunteers &

If you do and you’d like to be considered for a story in our Volunteers & Careers section, please send an email to info@thebeaconnewspapers.com.

Walkers raise funds to fight breast cancer

By Carol Sorgen Donna Potter was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2003 at the age of 44. In addition to fighting her disease, for a number of years she was an active volunteer for the American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk.

Though she can no longer undertake the three- to five-mile walk, her sister Judy Medicus, a Fallston resident, has taken up the cause on her behalf. “There’s nothing I can do to stop her pain,” said Medicus, “but I can fulfill her wish to help others.”

Since 2008, Medicus has inspired her work colleagues at CareFirst to raise funds for breast cancer research through the annual Making Strides walk. In the past four

years, the company team has raised from $25,000 to $47,000 a year to support the programs of the American Cancer Society.

A family connection “I am passionate about Making Strides and raising money,” said Medicus, who was familiar with the devastation of cancer even before her sister became ill.

“While in high school, my mother was diagnosed with cancer,” she recalled. “My sister stepped in and helped me deal with the tragedy as she tried to cope herself.

“Because our mother was sick from treatment, Donna did many things my mom would have done for a teenage girl….shopping, driving, preparing for prom.

“With the admiration I have for my family, you’ll understand how devastated I was when my sister said to me back in 2003, ‘I have breast cancer,’” Medicus continued. “Hearing those words made me physically ill.

“Donna gave me a few minutes to regain my composure and then said, ‘Okay, I need you to absorb it and deal with it.’”

Despite enduring many surgeries, chemotherapy and several setbacks, Medicus said her sister has always remained positive and strong, even while continuing to battle the disease, which has metastasized to her bones.

In being an advocate for the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk, Medicus has followed her sister’s lead in

raising money to find a cure.

“Donna, my inspiration, reminds me that she wants me to raise research money, not for her, but for our daughters, sister-in-laws, aunts, cousins, friends and all women in general. We need to win this war against breast cancer.”

Walks held nationwide Making Strides Against Breast Cancer is the American Cancer Society’s nationwide series of walking events to raise funds and awareness to end breast cancer.

Since 1993, eight million walkers across the country have raised more than $460 See BREAST CANCER, page 21

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Auctioneer From page 1 draws people to auctions,” said Zink, and the reality shows, which often focus on storage unit auctions, give viewers hope that their next treasure is just waiting for them, too.

That may or may not be the case, said Zink, who admits to occasionally being surprised by what can bring in a lot of money.

“You just never know what item is going to really take off,” Zink said. “If you have two or more people who really want something, an item can go through the roof.”

To a casual observer, that lone figurine or china cup and saucer may not look like much, but to a collector who wants to round out his or her collection, it can be a find worth a fortune.

Breast cancer From page 20 million through Making Strides events.

Last year alone, over $60 million was raised through more than 270 walks.

Funds raised through Making Strides Against Breast Cancer are used specifically to help people take steps to reduce their risk of breast cancer or find it early when it is most treatable.

They are also used to invest in research to find, prevent, treat and cure the disease;

Even if you don’t think you’re in the market to buy or sell, you may change your mind after attending a few auctions.

“Auctions are very addicting,” said Zink.

“You can get hooked on the energy, excitement and the sense of the unknown.”

Through the years, she’s developed a sixth sense of when bidders are going to make a move just by looking at subtle changes in their facial expression or body language.

And if, by some chance, there’s a lull in the proceedings or not much interest in a particular object, Zink uses her improvisational skills from her days as a drama teacher to get the crowd going again. “It’s just a matter of making them look at something in a new light,” she said.

Helping to downsize An aspect of her business that Zink finds provide free information and services to help people facing breast cancer today, including transportation, lodging, wigs, support programs and financial assistance; ensure access to mammograms for women who need them; and encourage lawmakers to pass laws to defeat breast cancer.

This year’s Baltimore Making Strides Against Breast Cancer event starts at 9 a.m. on Sunday, Oct. 14 at the Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Family Center Y at Stadium Place. Anyone can participate.

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particularly gratifying is helping people downsize and sell their property — from the contents of their home to the home itself.

With the real estate woes of the past few years, sellers have found that auctions are a quick, easy way to sell their house, said Zink. But sometimes she has to remind sellers that the days of over-inflated home prices are gone.

“What they may be ‘losing’ — in their mind — in what they get for their home, they’re making up by the fact that they’re not spending as much where they’re going,” she said.

In addition to real estate sales, the economy has had some effect on auctions of personal property as well. Furniture, for example, is not fetching as much as it once did, nor is Depression era glassware, once a hot collectible.

On the other hand, antique bronzes are still popular, and baby boomers are wildly enthusiastic about toys and games from their childhood. (Some of these can be found in general estate auctions; others are sold through specialty auctions. You can find a list of those online at www.mdauctions.org.)

For others who may be interested in learning the auctioneer’s trade, Zink suggests starting off, as she did, by attending an auctioneer training program and then working part-time to develop your skills.

Like Zink, you may find that this was indeed your calling all along.

“I just love what I do,” Zink said. So much so, in fact, that sometimes even the auctioneer has to take a breath and slow down.

“I get so enthusiastic, I can end up talking so fast nobody can understand me!”

and co-workers can form teams. Organizations or businesses can also sponsor teams of walkers. Or you can walk as an individual. Participants in wheelchairs should contact the American Cancer Society office prior to the event for additional information.

For more information, contact Gail

Molinari at baltimore.strides@cancer.org or call (410) 933-5223.

Volunteers are also needed for a variety of positions: water stops, registration, set up, route marshal, etc. To volunteer, contact Molly Schreiber at (410) 933-5208 or Molly.Schreiber@cancer.org.

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

22

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OCTOBER 2012 — BALTIMORE BEACON

Travel Leisure &

How to safeguard yourself from identity thieves while on vacation. See story on page 25.

Comparing costs, hassles in five cities DREAMSTIME.COM

well when it came to inexpensive, authentic, easily procured food. Breakfast was cafe con leche with medialunas (crescent rolls). Lunch was a classic Argentine choripan sausage with lettuce and tomato in a freshly baked baguette, with a soft drink, $7, followed by a second afternoon indulgence of apparently irresistible empanadas, three for $2.25. Dinner took two hours in keeping with the Argentine tradition of a late, leisurely meal and was a mere $17 for red wine, soup and prime beef.

DREAMSTIME.COM

Skyline views In Dubai, the ticket for the Burj Khalifa was the most expensive single item on that city’s itinerary, at $29 ($6 more than the Empire State Building and $10 more than the Eiffel Tower). But with a ticket bought in advance, the wait to get to the top of the Burj was a mere 12 minutes.

Compare that to an hour at the Empire State Building in New York and three hours at the Eiffel Tower in Paris, where the elevator was broken the day our reporter went.

At one point during the interminable wait in Paris, our poor correspondent declared that he had “lost the will to live,” but the typical wait at the Eiffel Tower when the lifts are running properly is said to be less than a half-hour.

Sensoji Temple in Tokyo

seemed clean, safe and relatively free of aggressive vendors and panhandlers.

Some frustrations

DREAMSTIME.COM

There were frustrations, of course.

Good luck finding a skyline view in Buenos Aires, where the Obelisco, a storied landmark, is closed for renovation, and the rooftop cafe at the PanAmerican Hotel is only open to hotel guests.

Our reporter was also unable to find Peron’s tomb in the cemetery at the Recoleta church. A guard at the gate gave directions, but after 15 minutes of wandering with no sign of the promised gravestone, our correspondent gave up.

Buenos Aires was also tied with New York for longest time getting in from the airport — a one hour, 15 minute ride in the Argentine capital, with the same torturous length of time from Kennedy Airport into Manhattan once you combine the wait for the cab with the trip. Another annoyance in New York: the promised flat fare of a $45 cab ride turned out to be more like $58 with tolls and a 15 percent tip.

Plaza de Mayo in Buenos Aires But Buenos Aires did

DREAMSTIME.COM

The Associated Press sent reporters on a typical tourist’s itinerary one weekday in June in five cities around the world — New York, Paris, Tokyo, Dubai and Buenos Aires — to compare prices and hassles, and they came away united in one conclusion: A tourist’s life is exhausting.

But there were some pleasant surprises.

One was just how hassle-free and affordable it is to be a tourist in Dubai, which is perceived as one of the world’s most expensive cities. A day in Dubai ran about $80, including three meals, a $14 taxi from the airport that took just 10 minutes, a museum visit, and a ticket to see the view from the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa.

Only Buenos Aires was cheaper for the day’s itinerary, at just over $60. New York and Tokyo were about the same, just under $135, while Paris proved most expensive, at $164.

Dubai and Buenos Aires proved cheapest for hotel prices as well, with three-star hotels found through Priceline.com for a weeknight in June charging $39 to $181 in Dubai and $58 to $210 in Buenos Aires.

Tokyo’s three-star hotels priced through Priceline.com for a weeknight in June also turned out to be cheaper than one might expect, at $80 to $295, while New York and Paris tied for most expensive hotels, $145 to $409 for Manhattan and $118 to $705 for Paris.

Other good news: Decent food could be had for reasonable prices in all five cities, with breakfast at about $5 and dinner under $30, even in places tourists frequent (though a waiter in Paris lived up to that city’s reputation for rude service when he refused to repeat the wine options).

And tourist areas in all five cities

Burj Khalifa in Dubai

Eiffel Tower in Paris

Hassle-free Tokyo The Tokyo tourist experience also seemed more affordable than the perception of an expensive city might suggest, if you subtract the astronomical cab fare ($82) from the airport. (Our reporter took a taxi from Haneda Airport, which serves a growing number of international tourists, but the fare from Narita International Airport is even higher at $300.)

The day in Japan’s capital also seemed remarkably free of hassles, perhaps in keeping with the Japanese reputation for efficiency (and as long as you don’t brave the city’s packed subways at rush hour).

That cab ride from the airport might have been pricey, but it took only 20 minutes; there was no wait to get up to the top of the Tokyo Tower, and the ticket was only $10; admission to Sensoji Temple, an important cultural site, was free, and a walk in Ueno Park was pleasant.

Lunch, an eel bowl with rice plus tea, was $8, and dinner at a popular sushi chain just outside Japan’s biggest fish market in Tsukiji, one of Tokyo’s most popular tourist destinations, was $25.

And nothing beats free in any city. At no charge, our reporters enjoyed Central Park in New York; Ueno Park in Tokyo; Tuileries Gardens in Paris; the Plaza de Mayo in See COMPARING COSTS, page 25

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BALTIMORE BEACON — OCTOBER 2012

23

Your rights when airline schedules change Other assistance. Typically, when a point, you might just want to go home Airlines often change schedules; some up to three hours.

American, Delta, United, US Airways and schedule change is an airline’s fault, most without continuing. Alaska is the only airby a few minutes, some by hours or even Virgin America say they can contracts obligate the airline to provide line whose contract provides a refund of days; some voluntarily, some transfer you to another line, various forms of assistance — meals, ac- the entire ticket rather than just the unforced by circumstances. but only at their sole discretion. commodations and such, as appropriate. used portion in this situation.

Other than in the isolated In effect, you can ask, but you In the event of weather or other cancellaAlso, some airlines set a minimum qualicases covered by government can’t demand. tions not under the airline’s control, how- fying time for delay-based refunds: 60 minregulations, your “rights” in a Southwest and Spirit prom- ever, all you get is a new flight or a refund. utes on Alaska, 90 minutes on Delta, and an schedule change are govise only to put you on another If you decide to abort. Typically, you undefined “significant” delay on Allegiant. erned by the contract you of their own flights. will prefer to accept the best deal you can Advance cancellation. If you learn of a have with an airline, which is The refund option. If you get to complete your trip with as little dis- schedule change before your departure called a “contract of carriage.” don’t like your airline’s solu- ruption as possible. Occasionally, however, date, you might want out, with no penalty, And most lines’ contracts are tion, most contracts offer you even your airline’s best alternative will no so that you could find a better deal on some surprisingly vague and impre- TRAVEL TIPS the alternative of a refund, with longer suit your purpose: other line. I found no specific contract lancise about schedule changes. By Ed Perkins no refund penalty even on a If the delay or cancellation would cause guage about such advance cancellations.

Not part of the contract. you to miss an important meeting, conAs far as I can tell, most lines treat them You might be surprised to find that most air- nonrefundable ticket.

At the start of the trip, the refund is for necting flight or some other firm date, you in the same way as they treat departure-day line contracts specifically state that the schedule is not part of the contract, or they the full amount. After you’ve started, the may no longer want to complete your trip cancellations, but that’s a matter of practice, contain an equivalent statement that the air- typical refund is for the “unused portion” of at all. At your original departure point, the not contract. Typically, what you get is what the agent you deal with says you get. line is not liable for failure to operate ac- your ticket. Of the contracts I checked, only full refund option obviously applies.

Spirit’s does not specify any refund option.

But if you’re stalled at a connecting © 2012 Tribune Media Services, Inc. cording to schedule, or both.

Although you may view the schedule as an inherent part of what you buy when you buy a ticket, the airlines say, “Not really.”

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If you love to take pictures and travel, join one of Steve Rosenbach’s Photo Safaris. Rosenbach guides visitors to some of the best photo-worthy sites at three destinations — Annapolis, New York City and Philadelphia — while giving you tips on composition, lighting and exposure. These Photo Safaris are suitable for any photo skill level, from complete beginner to pro. If you are new to photography or could use a refresher, Rosenbach conducts a free, 45-minute “pre-safari” session just prior to the Annapolis and Philadelphia safaris and most of NYC photo tours. Safaris are $99 each.

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BALTIMORE BEACON — OCTOBER 2012

25

How to avoid ID theft when on vacation

By Kimberly Lankford It can be easy to let down your guard when you’re away on vacation. Here are six ways to protect yourself against ID theft while traveling.

1. Notify your bank and credit card company that you’ll be traveling. Financial institutions have become a lot more vigilant about watching for suspicious activity and may put a hold on your account if they see numerous unusual transactions and can’t get in touch with you. Also be sure to provide updated contact information, including your cell phone number.

2. Be careful about what you throw away in hotel trash cans. Papers such as your airline boarding pass, flight itinerary

and car-rental receipts could include your driver’s license number, address, name, credit card number and other personal information. Shred the papers or take them home with you.

3. Don’t conduct financial business on a public Wi-Fi. Use a private network, a protected network at a hotel, or 3G or 4G on your smart phone or iPad. If you do use a hotel network, make sure that it really belongs to the hotel. Scam artists sometimes set up a Wi-Fi name that looks very similar to the hotel’s name.

Also avoid entering personal information on hotel computers, which could have software that logs keystrokes and records your passwords and account numbers. And

Comparing costs

gold shops, merchants selling spices, incense, carpets, textiles and pots and pans, and an endless number of vendors hawking watches.

— Thomas Adamson in Paris, Mari Yamaguchi in Tokyo, Adam Schreck in Dubai, Roger Dwarika in Buenos Aires and Beth J. Harpaz in New York collaborated on this report from the Associated Press.

From page 22 Buenos Aires, which is often filled with protesters and is a hub of political life since the 1810 revolution that led to Argentina’s independence from Spain; and the Dubai Waterway, which leads to the old souk or marketplace, filled with winding alleys, glittering

BEACON BITS

Oct. 2

NEW YORK, NY, IT’S A WONDERFUL TOWN

Enjoy a family style lunch at Sylvia’s, take a guided tour of the Apollo Theatre, and spend time on Canal St. on this New York excursion sponsored by the Liberty Senior Center. Cost for the Oct. 2 trip is $115. Call (410) 887-0780 for details and reservations.

Oct. 18

don’t announce on Facebook or other social-networking sites that you are traveling.

4. Avoid stand-alone ATMs. Thieves have been known to install software that records your bank-account information and PIN number (called skimming). Stick with bank ATMs because the security is likely to be better.

5. Watch your wallet. Take out all unneeded credit card and personal information from your wallet before you leave home. Make copies of all of your important documents, such as your passport, driver’s license, health insurance card and travel tickets, so you’ll have access to the information if your wallet is stolen.

Leave the copies with a family member

or scan them into an encrypted file on your computer. Also keep a list of contact numbers for your credit-card company and bank with you or in the hotel safe. That way, it will be easy to call if your wallet is stolen or you have any trouble with your account.

6. Check your credit card and bank statements frequently for unusual small charges. Charges for $10 or less could be a sign that thieves are testing your account number.

Kimberly Lankford is a contributing editor to Kiplinger’s Personal Finance magazine and the author of Ask Kim for Money Smart Solutions (Kaplan, $18.95). Send your questions and comments to moneypower@kiplinger.com. © 2012 Kiplinger’s Personal Finance

BEACON BITS

Ongoing

COMBINE TRAVEL WITH VOLUNTEERING

Projects Abroad, which arranges international volunteer projects around the world, is seeking volunteers to help out on its new microfinance project in Senegal, aimed at providing small loans to young adults who grew up on the streets. Projects Abroad programs include meals, accommodation, insurance, and staff support for all of its volunteers. For details on volunteering overseas and prices, visit www.projects-abroadorg.

Oct. 22+

BLACK HERITAGE TOUR

The Annapolis Senior Activity Center Trip Committee invites center members to learn about the history of African Americans in the U.S. during a five-day Black Heritage Tour of Charleston and Savannah. The trip takes place Oct. 22-26, and costs $800 for double occupancy, $1,040 for single and $764 for triple. For information, visit the center’s Trip Desk at the senior center, 119 S. Villa Ave., Annapolis, from 10 a.m. to noon, Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday or from 1 to 3 p.m. on Tuesday, or call (410) 222-1818 during those hours.

ENJOY THE FOLIAGE

Enjoy a one-hour train ride on the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad in Cumberland with hot lunch and an ice cream cone on the way home. Senior Box Office is hosting this trip on Oct. 18. Cost is $100 per person. Reserve a spot by calling (410) 882-3797.

Ongoing

RETIRED AND WANT TO VOLUNTEER?

The RSVP Program places individuals 55 and older in volunteer positions with private and public agencies throughout Baltimore City. To learn more, visit http://baltimorehealth.org/rsvp.html.

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OCTOBER 2012 — BALTIMORE BEACON

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Style Arts &

A scene from La Bohème, coming to the Lyric Opera House on Nov. 2 and 4.

La Bohème kicks off Lyric Opera season Bernard Uzan.

The all-star cast features internationally renowned soprano Anna Samuil as Mimi, Lyric Opera Baltimore’s own soprano Colleen Daly, as Musetta, and baritone Timothy Mix as Marcello.

Bohemians in Paris La Bohème is an opera in four acts by Giacomo Puccini, set to an Italian libretto by Luigi Illica and Giuseppe Giacosa. The opera is based on “Scènes de la vie de bohème” by Henri Murger, a collection of vignettes portraying the lives of young bohemians in the Latin Quarter of Paris in the 1840s. Like the 1849 play, the opera’s libretto focuses on the relationship between Rodolfo and Mimi and ends with her death.

The world premiere performance of the opera was held in 1896 in Turin, Italy, conducted by the young Arturo Toscanini.

Since then, La Bohème has become part of the standard Italian opera repertory and is the fourth most frequently performed opera in the world. (It was also the inspiration for the Broadway musical Rent.)

Lyric Opera Baltimore’s production will

be fully staged and will be sung in Italian with English surtitles.

Upcoming Lyric season The remainder of Lyric Opera Baltimore’s season includes the April 13 concert, “Bravissimo Bel Canto!,” which will include arias and ensembles from such composers as Rossini, Donizetti and Bellini. Bel Canto specialists mezzo-soprano Daniela Mack and tenor Alek Shrader (who are husband and wife) will head the lineup of stars, also including baritone Daniel Belcher and basso Steven Condy. They will be accompanied by duo-pianists James Harp and Edward Polochick.

Rounding out the season will be a production of Giuseppe Verdi’s Rigoletto, on May 17 and 19. This great tragic opera of a father’s love will be the company’s homage to Verdi on the bicentennial of his birth. The opera tells the story of Puccini’s beloved opera La Bohème focuses on the relationship between Mimi and Rodolfo.

Rigoletto, a deformed court jester, who lives only for the love of his more also has a thriving education outreach program, and performs at locales beautiful daughter, Gilda.

Although he carefully protects her from such as schools and senior centers the world, she meets the amoral Duke of throughout the greater Baltimore area.

Harp said the company is gratified by Mantua who seduces and abandons her.

Rigoletto’s desire for vengeance meets the response it has received from audiwith horrible consequences, and at last he ences. “The community is so grateful to realizes that a powerful curse, brought on have opera again, and we are so happy, with the support of the Lyric, to be able to by himself, has ruined his life.

The cast, directed by John Hoomes, will give grand opera back to the city.”

Tickets for La Bohème start at $40 and are feature acclaimed baritone Stephen Powell in the title role, Norah Amsellem as Gilda, available online at www.ticketmaster.com or and Bryan Hymel as the Duke of Mantua. at the Modell Lyric box office from 10 a.m. to The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra will 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. To order seats by phone, call (410) 900-1150 or (410) be conducted by Richard Buckley.

In addition to its performances at the 547-SEAT (7328). For more information, visit Lyric Opera House, Lyric Opera Balti- www.modellpac.com.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF OPERA CAROLINA, 2010

By Carol Sorgen When the Baltimore Opera Company folded in 2009, Charm City opera lovers were left with no outlet for their passion for grand opera.

Thanks to the city’s famed Lyric Opera House, that is no longer the case. Three years ago, the historic theater — one of America’s longest-running theatrical venues, dating from 1894 — established Lyric Opera Baltimore.

“The Lyric believed in our mission of presenting opera to the Baltimore community,” said artistic director James Harp, a graduate of Baltimore’s own Peabody Institute and administrator of the earlier company.

The company begins its second season of full-length opera productions with the presentation of Puccini’s La Bohème at the Modell Performing Arts Center at the Lyric, 110 W. Mt. Royal Ave. Performances are on Friday, November 2 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, November 4 at 3 p.m.

This production of La Bohème will be conducted by Steven White and feature the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra in the pit. The production will be directed by

More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com | Arts & Style

BALTIMORE BEACON — OCTOBER 2012

27

Poetry contestants write about Baltimore

By Carol Sorgen Several experienced local writers have been awarded honors in this year’s Senior Citizens’ Poetry Contest presented by the Baltimore City Department of Recreation and Parks.

The poem “Plight,” by author and poet Barbara Morrison, received first-place honors in the competition, whose theme was “Baltimore: My City, My Home.” The contest was open to Baltimore City residents 60 and older.

Morrison has been an avid reader and writer “ever since decoding that first Golden Book,” as a child, she said. Wanting to emulate her heroes, she started writing stories and plays for her siblings and friends, and then continued writing as “life took over.”

“But now that my children are grown, and I no longer need to work three jobs to support them, I can devote more time to writing,” said the North Baltimore resident, who is in her early 60s.

Genesis of a poem “Plight” was written more than 25 years ago, when Morrison was in what she calls a “dark period” in her life. Having recently moved back to Baltimore from Massachusetts, Morrison was divorced, had young children, and had been laid off from her teaching job.

“I had thought I was only going to be back in Baltimore for a short time, and had just realized that my stay here was going to be a lot longer than I thought,” she recalled.

“It was a scary time in my life and I thought the city was in a scary place as well,” Morrison said. But driving along Falls Road one day, Morrison saw sunlight ahead and realized, “Everything’s going to be all right.”

Morrison not only writes poetry — her first collection, Here at Least, came out in 2006, and her second, Terrarium, will be published next spring — but is also the author of a memoir, Innocent: Confessions of a Welfare Mother, which was published last year. It is based on her experiences as a welfare recipient after her divorce.

“I wanted to use my experiences and my friends’ experiences to tell the truth about living at the mercy of the welfare system and to explore what actually works to help families escape from poverty,” said Morrison.

Innocent is a finalist for Foreword Review’s Book of the Year and won a bronze IPPY award from Independent Publishers, both in the memoir category. She is also currently working on a novel.

“Working in different genres helps me balance attention to language with a strong structure,” said Morrison. “The condensation and attention to individual words and sounds from writing poetry informs my

prose, while the narrative structure of prose influences my poetry.

“Poetry in particular concentrates an experience or insight, combining structure, sense and sound, but remaining a collection of fragments with great spaces inside that only the readers’ imagination can cross.”

Odes to an elephant and seasons Helen Szymkowiak’s homage to the Baltimore Zoo’s former elephant, “Mary Ann,” took second-place honors in the competition, while third prize was awarded to Kate Richardson for her poem “Baltimore Seasons.”

Szymkowiak was born and bred in Baltimore, a product of city schools: P.S. #37, Clifton Park J.H.S., Eastern High School

(class of 1951), and Towson University, (class of 1976). In the years between high school and college, she married, had two sons, worked as a lab assistant in two city schools, took courses, joined a poetry group and wrote poetry.

She said she owes her interest to poetry first to her mother, who read verse to her before she could read, and then to all the wonderful teachers that she had throughout her school days.

Kate Richardson, who took third place for her poem “Baltimore Seasons,” has lived in Baltimore since 2004. She edits educational materials for a New York publishing company.

See POETRY, page 29

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The Meadows of Reistertown offers the maintenance-free, independent lifestyle you’ve been looking for in a retirement community.

• Social, Educational and Recreational Events • Patios or Balconies • Individual Climate Control • Convenient to Shoppings, Banking and Restaurants

MOM STAYS SAFE & HAPPY with Assisted Living at Charlestown and Oak Crest Assisted Living at Charlestown and Oak Crest offers your loved one everything she needs to live a rewarding life.

Your mom will benefit from an entire community filled with great neighbors, top-notch on-site health care and lots of fun things to do.

Learn more today. Call for your free brochure and activities calendar.

• Emergency Response System • Controlled Access Entry • Hair Salon • Elevators • Smoke Free • Small Pets Welcome

Live the carefree life you’ve been waiting for, and let us take care of all the details!

For more information call

410-526-3380

300 Cantata Court • Reisterstown, MD 21136

www.firstcentrumcommunities.com

930 Bay Forest Ct. • Annapolis, MD 21403

410-295-7557 Charlestown

8482819

Oak Crest

Catonsville, MD

Parkville, MD

410-988-4985

410-734-2592

EricksonLiving.com

7975 Crain Hwy. • Glen Burnie, MD 21061

410-696-2000

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OCTOBER 2012 — BALTIMORE BEACON

We want to be your Family’s Pharmacy That’s why we give you more.

Our pharmacists are at the heart of everything we do.

They can counsel you on your medications, side effects, drug interactions... even vitamins. We give you more than your medications; we’ll give you the advice you need.

Plus a series of pharmacy benefits like no other drugstore.

LifeCheck

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When we fill your prescription, our LifeCheck computer system lets our pharmacists triple check your prescriptions.*

Satellite Link

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Since all of our Pharmacies are linked by satellite network, we can access your prescription profile and fill your prescription at any location.* *If on file at another Rite Aid store.

Refills By Phone

Internet Refills

Refills just got easier. Call the Pharmacy number on your prescription bottle, enter the prescription I.D. number printed on the label and we will tell you when it will be ready.

With Internet Refills, you can order your prescription without ever leaving the house. Just go to www.riteaid.com and click “Refill Now”, select Store Pick-up or Mail Delivery and simply enter prescription information.

Rite Advice

Vitamin Program

With every prescription, you will receive written information on the dosage, side effects and potential drug interaction.

Only Rite Aid pharmacists are specially trained to know vitamins. Ask your Rite Aid pharmacist for a personal vitamin profile.

Workers’ Compensation

Flavor Rx

“Being injured on the job is hard enough. Your Rite Aid Pharmacist is here to personally help you along your road to recovery.” Ask us about our Workers’ Compensation Prescription Program.

There are no hassles, no delays and no out-ofpocket expenses.

We make children’s medicines a lot less yucky. Ask the pharmacist to add any of our 20 great flavors to any of your liquid medications.

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BALTIMORE BEACON — OCTOBER 2012

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Prize-winning poems FirST place Plight

Second place Mary Ann

Third place Baltimore Seasons

By B. Morrison Driving on a deserted road forgotten when the highway came through, lined with factories dropping bricks into the river, a river that rushes around debris: rocks and branches and bricks and boards.

Beyond, the railway embankment rises: dark stones walling up the earth.

By Helen Szymkowiak As deftly as a jeweler takes up a gem, With forceps lightly held in steady hand, She skims her trunk along a branch, selects A leaf, removes it neatly by the stem, Loops it to her mouth, savors it, then stands Swaying, as a dancer might, who is next To leave the wings and spin into the light.

Tuesdays and Fridays, precisely at two, In costume: conical hat, ballet clothes, Her colors patriotic, spangled bright, To martial music she performs; on cue She lifts a foot, salutes her fans. Breeze blows Her trunk-held flag; she curtseys to the crowd On one bent knee as the applause grows loud.

By Kate Richardson In the east, under dark clouds, Burly sunglow descends on The Bromo Seltzer Tower.

Westside, toward Highlandtown, A faint half moon inches Into a delicate blue sky Laced with gauzy clouds.

This is my city, my hometown, my home.

A dull grey city morning but the sun — just up, still hidden by houses and hill, up ahead just before you round the corner — the sun hits the embankment’s stones and gleams there: bright enough to hurt or wake you.

Changing weather in this city This neighborhood, this block.

This evening, as the door of Butts and Betty’s Tavern opens, spilling curses, lotto numbers, and laughter Across the street, the bells of Holy Rosary Church begin to chime, Counting out the hours, the seasons, the time.

Poetry From page 27 Her poetry has been published in the literary magazines of the College of Southern Maryland and St. Mary’s College of Maryland, Writer’s Ink (a now-defunct Baltimore literary magazine), Passionate Hearts (a collection of love poems edited by Wendy Maltz), and Weavings 2000: The Maryland Millennial Anthology edited by Michael Glaser.

An honorable mention was awarded to Mary Dozier for her poem, “Baltimore, My City, My Home.” Dozier has been writing poems and short stories since the age of 12.

She was originally inspired by her sixth grade teacher, Mary Carter Smith, who encouraged her by having her poem published in the sixth grade graduation program.

Dozier has a poem published in the American Anthology of Southern Poetry, and in the Blacks in Wax Museum Book of Poetry. She also has published a book, Mama’s Diamonds — words of wisdom from her mother.

Public program on Oct. 20 The winning poets will be honored during a free public program to be held at the Central Enoch Pratt Free Library (Poe Room - 2nd floor), 400 Cathedral St., on Saturday, Oct. 20, at 2:30 p.m.

Harriet Lynn will serve as emcee and will be honoring the memory of her mother, Ruth Garbis (nee Rochkind), the firstplace winner of the Baltimore City Senior Citizen’s Poetry Contest in 1985 for her poem, “I Love Baltimore.” Reservations are not necessary, but seating is limited.

The poems were chosen by three preliminary judges, including distinguished poets Clarinda Harriss, Alan Reese and Carla Dupree, with Shirley Brewer serving as final judge.

Dupree will also speak in honor and memory of her friend, Lucille Clifton, the former Poet Laureate of Maryland, whose life in poetry is the focus of an exhibit at the library.

Anne Arundel County Saturday, October 20 Severn School, Severna Park Greater Baltimore Saturday, October 27 Oregon Ridge Park 410-561-9099 • 800-272-3900 Kisha.James@alz.org • www.alz.org/maryland

CFG Community Bank • Lighthouse Senior Living • Mid-Atlantic Health Care Sunrise Senior Living • WeCare Private Duty Services, Inc. IN-KIND SPONSORS: Concept C Marketing Panera Bread • We Help-U-Move, Inc.

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OCTOBER 2012 — BALTIMORE BEACON

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Puzzle Page

Crossword Puzzle Daily crosswords can be found on our website: www.TheBeaconNewspapers.com Click on Puzzles Plus Fortified

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to 6 p.m. (times vary by studio). The 2012 community spotlight is on

Down

Hampden. For more information, visit www.school33.org.

1. Rhyme sequence

BEACON BITS

Oct. 1+

FREE FALL BALTIMORE CELEBRATES THE ARTS Free Fall Baltimore is the citywide arts celebration,

offering hundreds of free events, including workshops, concerts, films, lectures and walking tours by top area cultural organizations and attractions during National Arts and Humanities Month, Oct. 1-31.

Dates, times and locations vary. For a complete schedule, visit www.freefallbaltimore.org.

Oct. 20+

BALTIMORE OPEN STUDIO TOUR Professional artists throughout Baltimore City open their work studios to the public to showcase original

art, including paintings, sculptures, photographs, installations, clay

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and mixed media, on Saturday, Oct. 20 and Sunday, Oct. 21, 10 a.m.

Dear Editor: Well done, and thanks for the excellent article and accompanying photograph in your September issue documenting work by me and my fellow ReServists on behalf of various nonprofits in Maryland.

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1. Epiphany sounds 5. Uncle with a big hat 8. Playbill list 12. French bench 13. Cause of misery 14. The only woman with more French Open championships than Steffi 15. High prefix 16. Word inside many elevators 17. Gaucho’s rope 18. Fortified rest 21. Part-time B-52 crewmen 22. COMET’s core 23. Fortified modesty 30. Dark films 31. It vanishes every time you stand up 32. Giant Felipe, Matty, or Jesus 33. 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (more commonly) 34. Adhesive 36. Abbrevs. for Illinois and Israel 37. Keats’ feats 39. Take an axe to 40. Sit in the hot seat 42. Fortified value 46. Mythical bird 47. “___ Johnny!”

48. Fortified visitation 55. Goes for the gusto 56. Tennille, to the Captain 57. Droopy watch painter 58. American Pie destination 59. Big commotions 60. “I agree!”

61. Looks at suspiciously 62. ___ So Fine (The Chiffons’ first hit) 63. Safecracker

From page 2

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The Beacon is a great resource throughout the metro Baltimore/DC community, and I am confident this exposure will have both immediate as well as long-term impact on improving the lives of others.

Keep up the good work!

David Hall Columbia

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2. Dealer, on a classic game show 3. Divisive politician 4. A real kick, to Michael Phelps 5. NASA appraises its rings 6. Blue dye 7. Predicament 8. Hybrid monster 9. ___ League (Cairo-based org.)

10. World Wide Web locale 11. Autocrat 13. Daily Variety adjective 14. Mouse’s portion 19. Teens’ terrors 20. Bonkers 23. Along with 24. Gargantuan 25. Elude the caterers 26. Pay check subtraction 27. Mork or E.T. 28. Disputed Mideast region 29. Blustery 34. Opt for 35. Technique where the aud. sees what the char. sees 38. Disco lights 40. Lively 41. When school is in session 43. It usually precedes the cart 44. Horned herbivores 45. Bigfoot’s cooler cousins 48. Look up and down 49. Carnivore’s target 50. Cover with tar 51. State two borders away from Canada, and two away from Mexico 52. Lymph locale 53. Designer Cassini 54. “Deer ___”

Answers on page 31.

BALTIMORE BEACON — OCTOBER 2012

POWERFUL PRAYER TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN (Never Known to Fail) Oh, most beautiful flower of Mount Carmel, fruitful vine splendor of heaven. Blessed Mother of the Son of God. Immaculate virgin, assist me in my necessity. Oh, star of the sea, help me and show me, herein you are my mother. Oh, Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth! I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to the succor me in this necessity (make request). There is nothing that can withstand your power. Oh, Mary conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee (3 times).

Holy Mary I place this cause in your hands (3 times). Say prayer 3 consecutive days. Publish it and your petitions will be granted to you.

Thank you for listening to my prayers. MJM.

BUYING NUMISMATIC COINS and most gold or silver items including coins, sterling, jewelry, etc. Will come to you with best cash offer. Call Paul: 410-756-1906.

LIONEL & AMERICAN FLYER electric trains. Any age or condition. Also buy old toy cars and metal soldiers from the 1950’s. Call: 410-363-4873.

WE BUY, SELL, AND TRADE Miscellaneous Items i.e., Musical Instruments, Recreational Items, Motorcycles and Minibikes, Collections, Memorabilia, Vintage Items, Electronics, Toys, Cars, Jewelry, Tools. We can sell your items for you on Ebay and Craigslist. We can help you sell large items i.e., Cars, Campers, Equipment and more. Call Dave 443-514-8583.

CASH BUYER for old costume jewelry, pocket and wrist watches (any condition). Also buying watch maker tools and parts, train sets and accessories, old toys, old glassware & coins. 410-655-0412.

T S A R

STAMPS! Small collector buying stamps. Also U.S. mint stamps for sale. Southwest Stamp Club meets Friday, October 19th, 2012. Arbutus. 410-247-4169.

S I T E

FEDERAL HOME SOLUTIONS INC. Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS). We are a full service remodeling company specializing in modifications for the aging and disabled. 410-409-8128.

VINYL RECORDS WANTED from the 20s through 1985. Jazz, Rock-n-Roll, Soul, Rhythm & Blues, Reggae and Disco. 33 1/3 LPs, 45s or 78s, Larger collections preferred. Please call John, 301-596-6201.

M E S S

Home/Handyman Services

FINE ANTIQUES, PAINTINGS AND QUALITY VINTAGE FURNISHINGS wanted by a serious capable buyer. I am very well educated [law degree] knowledgeable [over 40 years in the antique business] and have the finances and wherewithal to handle virtually any situation. If you have a special item, collection or important estate I would like to hear from you. I pay great prices for great things in all categories from oriental rugs to Tiffany objects, from rare clocks to firearms, from silver and gold to classic cars. If it is wonderful I am interested. No phony promises or messy consignments. References gladly furnished. Please call Jake Lenihan 301-279-8834. Thank you.

A N I L

SELLING OLD POCKET WATCHES, some have 3 jewels, men’s dress watches, parts and watchmaker’s tools. Call Evenings: Suzan @ 410-931-0426.

Wanted

From page 30. a es ift! k a M at g e gr

Beacon The

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NEWS & FEATURES • LAW & MONEY FITNESS & HEALTH • LEISURE & TRAVEL ARTS & STYLE • VOLUNTEERS & CAREERS

$12/year via Third Class Mail plus tax

Please send a one-year subscription to: Name:____________________________________________ Address:___________________________________________

Cars, boats, furniture, antiques, tools, appliances Everything and anything is sold on

Radio Flea Market Heard every Sunday, 6:30-8 a.m. on 680 WCBM

City: _____________________State:_____Zip: ___________ BB1012

❐ One Year = $12 (Maryland residents add 6% for sales tax = $12.72) ❐ Check here if this is a gift subscription.

Write the recipient’s name above. A gift card will be sent in your name: _____________________________ Return this form with your check, made payable to The Beacon, to: The Beacon, P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915-2227

A B A B

STAMP COLLECTION, old mail covers 1940’s and up. Will sell for fair price. Must see.

Call evenings, Suzan @ 410-931-0426.

ANSWERS TO CROSSWORD

G U S T Y

DULANEY VALLEY MEMORIAL GARDENS, top and bottom burial lot. Abbey Gardens Area. Crypt # 114 – Asking $2250. Contact – 410-655-1439.

ANSWERS TO SCRABBLE

G O L A N

2 SALVADOR DALI woodblock prints from Dante’s Divine Comedy. Signed and framed.

Asking $900 for the pair. Can email pictures if desired. Call Steve 410-913-1653.

The Beacon, Baltimore Classified Dept.

P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915-2227

I N T O W

MACULAR DEGENERATION READER for person with AMD, a 22-inch screen Merlin reader.

Used 17 months. Original cost $3,000, now $950.

Have all papers. 410-608-8225 / 410-821-1010.

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

X I N G

For Sale

Note: Each real estate listing counts as one business text ad.

O L E G

LICENSED, BONDED CNA with decade of geriatric care experience seeks long-term, fulltime overnight position. Currently a grad student pursuing nursing degree, I come with an extensive resume, sterling references & solid pet-care skills. If interested, kindly call Jacqueline at 301-787-3555.

Business Text Ads: For parties engaged in an ongoing business enterprise. Each ad is $25 for 25 words, 50 cents for each additional word.

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

Caregivers

Private Party Text Ads: For individuals seeking to buy or sell particular items, or place a personal ad. Each ad is $10 for 25 words, 25 cents for each additional word.

E T L A O X P E R H I N O S

GETTING MARRIED? Licensed officiant will perform Wedding and Renewal of Vows at most Indoor and Outdoor venues in Maryland. NonDenominational and Interfaith couples are accepted. Phone: 410-343-7208. Email: ladyofficiant@gmail.com.

Note: Only ads received and prepaid by the deadline will be included in the next month’s issue.

Please type or print your ad carefully. Include a number where you can be reached in the event of a question. Payment is due with ad. We do not accept ads by phone or fax, nor do we accept credit cards.

N O D E

LEARN ENGLISH – SPANISH – ITALIAN – FRENCH – PORTUGUESE Conversational.

Grammatical. Private lessons. Reasonable Rates. Tutoring students. 443-352-8200.

Deadlines and Payments: Ad text and payment is due by the 5th of each month.

S B A O T S F U A F R T O N S E P L O H E V O C R T U T S A E H

Personal Services

TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED

H A S A N C L T I L I S U S M N O O I R N T D E S O R T R O B E S

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.

Wanted

P A V E

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 ac cept responsibility for the integrity of either.

Respondents to classified advertising should always use caution and their best judgment.

Wanted

P R E Y

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

Miscellaneous

O G L E

CLASSIFIEDS

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OCTOBER 2012 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; BALTIMORE BEACON

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Dr. Hatem Abdo

410-391-6904

Dr. Clayton Dean

410-539-3434

Dr. Lawrence Shin

410-368-8323

Dr. Spiro Antoniades 410-539-3434

Dr. James Frazier

410-391-6904

Dr. Gurtej Singh

410-849-4270

Dr. Oren Blam

410-644-1880

Dr. Dale Johnson

410-601-5201

Dr. Brian Steinmetz 410-539-3434

Dr. Andrew Brown

410-350-3389

Dr. David Maine

410-332-9036

Dr. Henry Wang

443-849-2311

Dr. William Cook

410-879-0066

Dr. Charles Park

410-391-6904

Dr. Thelma Wright

410-448-7120

Dr. Charles Yim

443-849-2311

Dr. Michael Dabbah 410-337-8888

Dr. Charles Schnee 410-646-0220