April 2025 | DC Beacon

Gail Kohn makes connections

By Margaret Foster

Capitol Hill resident Gail Kohn has always been somewhat of a matchmaker. Throughout her 40-year career in the aging field, she’s found ways to connect people — with a neighbor, plumber, mayor and even a future spouse.

“I make a lot of connections,” said Kohn, who recently named her new limited liability corporation Linking Partners LLC as a nod to her superpower. “I know lots of people because I like meeting people. It’s just part of my gene pool…It’s how I think.”

Kohn, known for her groundbreaking work helping older adults age in their neighborhoods, will receive the Leadership in Aging Award from Seabury Resources for Aging next month. Seabury, a nonprofit that provides housing, care management, meals, transportation and more for older adults in the D.C. metro area, will honor Kohn at its annual celebration on May 8.

“Gail Kohn exemplifies the spirit of advocacy that is essential for creating a society where older adults can thrive,” said Dawn M. Quattlebaum, Seabury’s CEO.

“We celebrate not only her remarkable contributions, but also the vital importance of fostering inclusive environments where older adults can age with empowerment. Her leadership [reminds] us that when we prioritize the needs of our older adults, we enrich the fabric of our society as a whole.”

For the last 12 years, Kohn served as the coordinator for the Age Friendly DC program, whose mission is “to make the District of Columbia a better place to live, work and play for people of all ages.”

But she’s perhaps best known as the founding executive director of Capitol Hill Village, one of the oldest “villages” in our area.

Villages are nonprofits that link volunteers with older people who may need help

with technology, rides to appointments, organization or other tasks. Put simply, a village, Kohn said, is “an opportunity for neighbors to support neighbors in the common effort to go through life getting things done that they need help with.”

There are now 75 villages in the DMV, thanks in part to Kohn’s guidance when

she was at the helm of Capitol Hill Village.

“The people that learned from us then opened the doors for other people who were interested in villages…it spread by word of mouth because it’s all about purpose. People like having purpose in their lives, and the

With gusto, creativity and a knack for introducing people, Gail Kohn has advocated for older adults for more than 40 years. In May she will receive the Leadership in Aging Award from Seabury Resources for Aging.

PHOTO BY

Say cheese!

As the grandfather of the cutest 2-yearold on Earth…oh wait, let me show you. Nope, can’t get him to do his cutest things on camera.

Have you noticed that?

Everyone seems to whip out their cellphone camera to record every little thing of interest. But the moment you do that in front of anyone age two or older, they stop doing what they were doing naturally and assume a pose for posterity.

Every time my grandson erupts in his infectious giggles, I grab my phone and… gone. When we put on music and he starts dancing and “conducting” it, I begin to video him, but he immediately stops.

Werner Heisenberg proved that the mere act of measuring particles at the quantum level inevitably affects those particles, making it impossible to be certain of both their position and momentum at the same time.

FROM THE PUBLISHER

By Stuart P. Rosenthal

Fortunately, my wife also sees him do cute things. But neither of us is an impartial observer, so even her corroboration isn’t enough to prove my claim.

There is a name for this phenomenon, of course: the “observer effect,” which is apparently an extension of Heisenberg’s Uncertainty Principle.

Nobel prize-winning quantum physicist

When applied to largerthan-quantum people — perhaps especially 2-year-olds — I think it means we can never record our best moments together. Our human connection is what makes those moments beautiful, and pulling out a cellphone breaks that connection.

In a variation on the theme, something older humans are likely to do in front of a camera is to be on our best behavior.

If we know we’re being recorded, we may stifle our yawns, stop grimacing and wave with a smile, put down that delicate item, open the door for another person and, in short, engage in whatever behavior we would prefer to be remembered for.

I suppose that’s a good thing. Those who believe they are always being watched “from Above” are (presumably) more like-

ly to be on their best behavior even behind closed doors.

Ironically, perhaps, at a time when the number of Americans who report “no religious affiliation” on surveys is at an alltime high, technology has introduced an “eye in the sky” that’s always watching us in the form of ubiquitous security cameras.

At least one study has shown that when such cameras are visible, they reduce the incidence of crime. Unfortunately, they also may reduce the incidence of cute behavior by children.

I am an amateur photographer — or was back in my youth, when I traveled around Europe carrying dozens of rolls of film in my backpack.

I discovered then that I could interact with my surroundings, whether natural or man-made, in one of two ways. I could either stand and take it all in, trying to pay attention to the details, feel the overall effect, sear the image in my memory, and take that feeling with me on my travels.

Or I could fiddle constantly with my camera, taking shots from every angle, switching between my wide-angle and tele-

photo lenses, trying different shutter speeds to improve or blur the depth of field, all hoping to come out of the experience with a cool shot I could blow up and frame on a wall back home.

Can you guess which approach I took most often? Yes, my favorite photos from those years are proudly framed on the walls of our home. And I do love looking at them.

But I have to admit, I hardly remember being in those places when I took those shots. My camera was there, but where was I?

Well, one good thing about my method of recording my travels for posterity is that I could count on the places not changing on me just because I took out my camera.

As for my grandson, I have come to love just being with him and enjoying every moment. And he really is the cutest toddler on Earth. You’ll just have to believe me.

Letters to the editor

Beacon The

TheBeacon is a monthly newspaper dedicated to inform, serve, and entertain the citizens of the Greater Washington DC area, and is privately owned. Other editions serve Greater Baltimore and Howard County, Md. Readership exceeds 400,000.

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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

President/Associate Publisher –Judith K. Rosenthal

Executive Vice President – Gordon Hasenei

Managing Editor – Margaret Foster

Art Director – Kyle Gregory

Vice President of Operations – Roger King

Advertising Representatives –Dan Kelly, M.K. Phillips, Alan Spiegel

Assistant Editor –Ana Preger Hart

Editorial Intern – Tori Cleveland

The Beacon, P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915 (301) 949-9766 • Email: info@thebeaconnewspapers.com Website: www.theBeaconNewspapers.com

Submissions: The Beacon welcomes reader contributions. Deadline for editorial is the 10th

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

Dear Editor:

Your cover story last month on Dolly Parton’s books for kids was well written and timely, as it was published just before the unfortunate death of her husband.

Watching interviews with her and videos of their marriage led me to relate back to your article, which describes her donating books to preschool children with hopes they would learn to read. She even wrote one of the books that were sent across the U.S., and to the UK, Ireland, Canada and Australia.

I had an idea for another kid’s book she could write that would introduce children to the “love of the moment,” similar to the moment she met her husband. Dolly said that when they met in a laundromat, her future husband asked, “What are you doing here?”

Well, imagine her writing a book for a child about falling in love with a puppy. The child finds a small puppy and then says, “What are you doing here?” From that moment, the child and the puppy become lifelong buddies!

Tom Bland Burke, VA

Dear Editor:

I picked up my first copy of the Beacon at the YMCA and am still smiling. Such pleasant reading, and so many articles of interest to me. I can’t wait until next

month’s issue. What a wonderful, helpful publication. Thank you.

Carolyn Brownley Via email

Dear Editor:

To conquer leg cramps [“What do to about nighttime leg cramps,” March, p. 6], try the following: Lie flat on your back, arms at your side, and turn your head from side to side — not too fast, not too slow — until the cramp subsides.

I don’t know why or how this works, but it has worked for me for many years. I still get leg cramps, but they are gone after five or six (or more) side-to-side turns of my head.

No harm in trying. You are welcome.

Maurice Rudiselle Via email

Dear Editor:

This is in response to Jennifer GittinsHarfst’s letter to the editor [March 2025] about home cooking.

I cook most nights, and my husband cooks too. We’re retired now and enjoy our meals at home. When my two daughters lived with us, they helped, and now they prepare homemade meals. It’s not a chore; it’s a labor of love. Delicious and healthy!

Peggy O’Neill Vienna, VA

Fitness & Health

LONG LINES

Pharmacies are doing more with less, so enroll in auto-fill to save time in line

NIGHTTIME WAKEUPS

If you’re waking up at night to go to the bathroom, rule out these causes

SPRING ALLERGY SEASON

Many antihistamines and decongestants deplete vitamin B and C, magnesium and zinc

ANXIETY-FREE FOODS

Jittery? Junk food, sugar, caffeine and alcohol can make anxiety worse

How GLP-1 drugs could revolutionize retirement

By Jacob Schroeder

You know something is a big deal when Big Food gets nervous.

The culprit? Popular weight-loss drugs like Ozempic, which mimic the hormone glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) to curb hunger, aren’t just suppressing appetites. They’re reshaping eating habits, steering people away from sweet and salty cravings.

A Cornell study found households with a GLP-1 user cut grocery spending by about 6%, with the largest drop in caloriedense, processed items, including an 11% decline in savory snacks. As The New York Times reports, companies like Pepsi are scrambling to reformulate products, such as adding protein and whole grains to match shifting consumer tastes.

The rise in GLP-1 drugs is undeniable. Morgan Stanley projects that by 2035, 24 million Americans, or 7% of the population, will be using these medications.

But that estimate may be too low. GLP-1 medications are proving remarkably effective beyond weight loss, showing promise in treating substance abuse and even psychological disorders. These early signals suggest the impact could extend far beyond a healthier bag of chips. They could spark a broader health revolution.

David Blanchett, head of retirement re-

search at PGIM, believes these medications could change how we plan for retirement: “We’re going to have more of these advances in the future, that result in increasing lifespans in retirement. It’s not really possible to know what these are, but the implications for retirement are somewhat staggering.”

With healthier adults living longer, the future of retirement could be rewritten entirely.

So, what could that future look like?

GLP-1 drugs and fewer doctor visits — and bills

The cost of healthcare looms large for retirees. Fidelity estimates that the average retiree today will spend $165,000 on medical expenses. Rising costs are driven by longer lifespans and chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and arthritis.

“If GLP-1 medications can effectively reduce the incidence and severity of chronic diseases, retirees may indeed experience lower healthcare costs,” said Dr. Fatima Cody Stanford, obesity medicine physician and associate professor of Medicine and Pediatrics at Harvard Medical School.

What’s more, research indicates GLP-1 drugs may help prevent a range of serious conditions, lowering the risk of stroke, kid-

ney disease and even neurodegenerative diseases we’ve thought practically incurable, like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.

The potential benefits extend beyond healthcare savings. “This could allow more disposable income to be spent on travel, hobbies and other activities, enhancing quality of life,” Stanford added.

More retirees on the go

Age naturally slows us down, with slower metabolism, muscle loss and inactivity as common culprits. That’s why retirement is often described in three stages: the Go-Go years, the Slow-Go years and the No-Go years. It’s during the Go-Go years — those early, active retirement days — that people travel and pursue longawaited adventures.

But GLP-1 drugs could help rewrite that narrative — more “go” than “slow.” These medications could help retirees remain active well into their later years.

According to a PwC study, over half of users said they made healthier food choices, and about a third reported less binge eating and drinking. Most kept or increased their exercise routines, signaling a stronger commitment to a healthier lifestyle.

“If retirees can be healthier for longer, they may want to do more things, for

longer, than we’re seeing today from retirees,” Blanchett said.

Yes, a more active retirement could mean more spending on travel, leisure and experiences, but here’s the kicker: GLP-1 drugs could reduce one of the biggest obstacles to financial security — the health problems that force people into early retirement.

Longer careers, larger

savings

More than half of respondents in an EBRI survey retired earlier than planned, citing health problems or disabilities as the top reason.

GLP-1 drugs could help people stay healthier and work longer, providing a crucial opportunity to catch up on savings.

“With better health management, individuals may be able to extend their working years, contributing to increased workforce participation among older adults,” Stanford said.

The concept of a fixed retirement age may fade altogether. If people have healthier, longer lives, retirement could become more of a flexible transition than a hard stop.

The bottom line

While GLP-1 drugs offer promising ben-

Know the early signs and symptoms of diabetes

Dear Savvy Senior,

What are the early signs and symptoms of diabetes? I’m 60 years old and in pretty good shape, but I was just diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. What did I miss?

—Diabetic Dan

Dear Dan,

The signs and symptoms of type 2 diabetes can be so mild that many people miss them. That’s why testing is so important. Here’s what you should know.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention more than 38 million Americans have diabetes today, and another 97 million have prediabetes, but many of them don’t even know they have it.

Type 2 diabetes is a disease that develops slowly over decades. Most people have prediabetes for a long time before the disease becomes full-blown diabetes, and even then, it progresses gradually. Diabetes occurs when your blood glucose, also called blood sugar, is too high. This excess blood sugar damages blood vessels and affects circulation, putting you at risk for a host of ailments, from heart attack and stroke to blindness, kidney failure and nerve damage.

Signs and symptoms

So how can you tell if you have diabetes?

The earliest signs, which are usually subtle, including urinating more frequently

(often at night), being thirster and hungrier than usual, weight loss without trying, feeling very tired, having dry, itchy skin and blurry vision.

And the symptoms that can indicate advanced diabetes and long-term damage has occurred includes cuts or sores that heal slowly, having more infections than usual and pain or numbness in your feet or legs.

Who should get tested?

Because prediabetes typically causes no outward symptoms, and the signs of early type 2 diabetes can easily be missed, the only way to know for sure if you have it is to get a blood test.

Everyone age 45 years or older should consider getting tested for diabetes, especially if you are overweight with a body mass index (BMI) above 25. See CDC.gov/bmi to calculate your BMI.

If you are younger than 45 but are overweight, or have high blood pressure, a family history of diabetes, or belong to an ethnic group (Latino, Asian, African or Native American) at high risk for diabetes, you should get checked too.

To help you determine your risk for diabetes, the American Diabetes Association (ADA) has a quick, online risk test you can take for free at Diabetes.org/risk-test.

Diabetes tests

There are three different tests your doctor can give you to diagnosis diabetes. The most common is the “fasting plasma glucose test,” which requires an eight-hour fast before you take it. There’s also the “oral glucose tolerance test” to see how your body processes sugar, and the “hemoglobin A1C

See GLP-1 DRUGS , page 5

SAVVY SENIOR By Jim Miller

GLP-1 drugs

From page 4

efits, they come with notable drawbacks. In fact, 50-75% of people stop using them within a year. Cost is the leading factor (hundreds of dollars per month).

“They are expensive, particularly in the U.S., compared to other countries with national insurance, such as Canada and the UK,” Stanford notes.

Side effects also cause concern, with users reporting nausea, gastrointestinal is-

Diabetes

From page 4

test” that measures your average blood sugar over the past three months. It can be taken anytime, regardless of when you ate.

Most private health insurance plans and Medicare cover diabetes tests; however, if you’re reluctant to visit your doctor to get tested, an alternative is to go to the drug store, buy a blood glucose meter and test yourself at home. They cost around $20.

If you find that you are prediabetic or diabetic, see your doctor to develop a plan to get it under control. In many cases lifestyle changes like losing weight, exer-

BEACON BITS

May 13+

sues and sleep disturbances. Rare cases of eye complications, including conditions linked to blindness, have surfaced.

Still, the buzz around GLP-1 drugs continues to build, fueled by study after study showcasing their potential. Whether they spark a health — and retirement — revolution or fade like a fleeting trend, one thing is certain: They already have more staying power than Crystal Clear Pepsi.

© 2025 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. All rights reserved. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

cising, eating a healthy diet and cutting back on carbohydrates may be all you need to do to get your diabetes under control. For others who need more help, many medications are available. For more information on diabetes and prediabetes or to find help, join a lifestyle change program recognized by the CDC (CDC.gov/diabetes-prevention). These programs offer in-person and online classes in more than 1,500 U.S. locations. Send your questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of The Savvy Senior.

COMMON HEALTHCARE FRAUD WEBINAR

This free four-part webinar by Virginia’s Senior Medicare Patrol teaches participants how to prevent, detect and report healthcare fraud. The first part introduces common scams and how to avoid them. It takes place on Tue., May 13 from noon to 1 p.m. on Zoom. To register, visit agingtogether.org and navigate to the programs tab. For more information, email info@agingtogether.org or call (540) 829-6405.

MAIL OR EMAIL FOR FREE INFORMATION

For free materials about area housing communities and health studies, just complete and clip this coupon and mail, or take a picture and email it to the Beacon.

Housing Communities

District of Columbia

o Chevy Chase House (See ads on pages B3, B11)

Maryland

o Brooke Grove (See ads on pages B14, B10, B12)

o Cascades of Frederick (See ad on page B2)

o Charles E. Smith Life Communities (See ad on page B5)

o Churchill Senior Living (See ad on page 7)

o Grandview, The (See ads on pages B12, B16)

o Hill House at Beechfield (See ad on page B6)

o Homecrest House (See ads on pages B6, B13)

o Park View Bladensburg (See ad on page B14)

o Park View Columbia (See ad on page B14)

o Park View Emerson (See ad on page B14)

o Park View Laurel (See ad on page B14)

o Riderwood/Erickson (See ads on pages 1, B11, B16))

o Ring House (See ad on page B5)

o Willow Manor at Cabin Branch (See ad on page B8)

Virginia

o Ashby Ponds/Erickson (See ads on pages 1, B11, B16)

o Greenspring/Erickson (See ads on pages 1, B10, B16)

o Falcons Landing (See ads on pages B7, B12)

o The Sylvestery at Vinson Hall (See ads on pages B2, B10)

o Woodleigh Chase (See ads on pages B13, B16)

Clinical Health Study

o Hearing Study (See ad on page 6)

Check the boxes you’re interested in and return this form to: The Beacon, P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915 or take a picture and email to housing@thebeaconnewspapers.com.

Feel free to return this coupon together with the coupon found on page B-9 of this issue.

Ease pharmacy visits, nighttime waking

By Howard LeWine, M.D.

Q: I have been using the same pharmacy for many years. Recently, it has been more of a struggle to get my prescriptions. The lines can be very long, and I feel rushed when the staff finally gets to me. Is this common?

A: The types of changes you describe are happening across the country. Like many other businesses, pharmacies are struggling with budget cuts and staffing shortages. That’s leading to challenging working conditions for pharmacists and the technicians who support them. They’re doing more with less, and yet they’re expected to fill hundreds of prescriptions per day, administer vaccines, consult with customers, and call insurance

companies to resolve billing issues.

As a result, many pharmacy workers are experiencing burnout. They say they don’t have the time to do their jobs properly, and they worry about patient safety. Meanwhile, customers are sometimes scrambling to get their prescriptions filled or wondering if they should be concerned about the safety of their medications.

Sometimes there’s a problem because the drug is out of stock. Your pharmacy may be unable to fill a prescription in a timely manner because they don’t have the medication on hand. It could just be that the drug is temporarily out of stock. Or it could be due to a manufacturing issue causing a shortage.

If it’s a manufacturer issue, call your doc-

tor’s office. Your doctor may need to change to a different medication that can work just as well. If the prescription is temporarily out of stock, ask your pharmacist to see if another store in the chain has it, make the call yourself, or ask your doctor to call in a prescription to a different pharmacy — one where it’s already confirmed that your medication is in stock and available.

Don’t wait until the last minute to refill your prescription. Consider putting the prescription on auto-refill, which should allow the pharmacy to refill the prescription within a week of when it is due.

Pharmacists work hard to fill prescriptions accurately, making sure you receive the right drug at the right dose. Yet mistakes sometimes occur. It’s unclear if that’s happening more frequently now.

fore leaving a pharmacy. Look at your pills to become familiar with their appearance. If you get a batch that looks different, ask your pharmacist about it or search online to find an image of the pill you have and what it’s used for. Generic medications can come in a variety of shapes and colors, which can vary by manufacturer.

Q: Why might a person start waking up more often to urinate during the night?

A: Most people, once they reach middle age, will feel the need to empty their bladder at least once during the night. Doctors call it nocturia. Whether the need to urinate wakes a person up or it’s just that he or she wakes up for another reason and has the urge usually can’t be determined.

Always double-check medications be-

SLEEP TALK

This free talk with Dr. Linda Berg-Cross covers the top 10 things to know about sleep, possible reasons for insomnia, sleep therapy, and answers about power naps, sleep medications and sleep disorders. It takes place on Thu., May 15 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Potomac Community Center, 11315 Falls, Rd., Potomac, MD. To register, visit bit.ly/FreeSleepTalk. For more information, email info@PotomacCommunityVillage.org or call (240) 221-1370.

Ongoing

SPRING ENERGY EFFICIENCY TIPS

Pepco encourages customers to prepare now to save on energy costs this summer: Set your thermostat temperature 7 to 10 degrees Fahrenheit higher if health permits; get your AC unit serviced and cleaned; test your home’s energy efficiency with an infrared thermometer; track your energy usage; keep cool air in and hot air out with weatherstripping; keep the sun out with awnings and curtains. For more in-depth information and other resources, visit bit.ly/SpringEnergyEfficiencyTips.

BEACON BITS

Wakeups

From page 6

Sometimes lifestyle is to blame. For example, it could be that you drink caffeinated beverages too late in the day. Caffeine increases your kidneys’ production of urine. Or maybe you’re drinking a lot of fluids close to bedtime. The kidneys never stop making urine, and many people make urine more efficiently when they’re lying flat than when they’re sitting or standing.

Underlying conditions can cause nocturia. In women, an overactive bladder that results in a larger number of urinations is common, particularly after menopause. In men, an overactive bladder is frequently caused by an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH).

Both men and women can experience nocturia due to various medical conditions. For example, in individuals with type 2 diabetes, the kidneys remove the extra sugar that’s in the blood and produce more urine to carry that waste out of the body. Also, people with diabetes tend to drink more fluids because of increased thirst.

In people with sleep apnea, the brain recognizes it isn’t getting enough oxygen at night. To increase oxygen circulating in the blood, the brain signals the kidneys to increase blood volume and tells the heart to pump faster. That increases urine production.

Other reasons for nocturia include kidney disease; taking a diuretic (water pill)

BEACON BITS

Ongoing

for heart disease or high blood pressure; or varicose veins associated with daytime retention of fluid, which shifts from the legs to the blood and kidneys at night.

What you can do

Treating nocturia starts with lifestyle changes. Try to stop drinking fluids several hours before bed and eliminate caffeinated beverages 10 hours before bedtime.

Also, ask your doctor if you need to be tested for the various possible medical conditions that can cause nocturia, which may not yet have been diagnosed.

Medications can sometimes help ease nocturia. In men with BPH, this could include drugs (alpha blockers) that improve the flow of urine, helping empty the bladder before bedtime. But you won’t go from getting up five times a night to zero times. It might just go from five to two.

For women, bladder medications may help ease nocturia. But the drugs have possible side effects, and the risks and benefits have to be weighed carefully.

Pill-free approaches include pelvic floor exercises, injections of botulinum toxin (Botox) or nerve stimulation.

Howard LeWine, M.D., is an internist at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston and assistant professor at Harvard Medical School. For additional consumer health information, visit health.harvard.edu.

© 2025 Harvard University. For terms of use, please see Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

PARKINSON’S COMMUNICATIONS CLUB (VIRTUAL)

This free wellness and prevention program for people with Parkinson’s disease and their care partners is led by a speech pathologist and focuses on maintaining communication skills. The group meets every Monday from 3 to 4 p.m. on Zoom. For more information and to register, contact Brooke Ballenger at bballenger@kensingtonsl.com or (301) 946-7700.

“LIVING MECHANICS” EXHIBIT

Artist & Makers Studios is featuring the work of artist Eric Celarier in an exhibition that runs through Wed., April 23. “Living Mechanics” highlights drawings and prints that describe nature and fundamental forces beyond nature. Visit this free show at 11810 Parklawn Dr., Suite 210, Rockville, MD, Monday through Saturday between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. For more information, email Judith@artistandmakersstudios or call (240) 481-5034.

POETRY WRITING WORKSHOP

Craft your own poetry at the “Making Your Mixtape” workshop, which will explore the intersection of music and the spoken word. Led by the 2024-2027 Fairfax County Poet Laureate Angelique Palmer, this free event takes place on Sat., April 19 from 2 to 3:30 p.m. at the City of Fairfax Regional Library, 10360 North St., Fairfax, VA. For more information and to register, visit bit.ly/PoetryWorkshopFairfax.

SHAKESPEARE’S BIRTHDAY LECTURE

Visit the Folger Theatre on Sat., April 19 at 7 p.m. to hear Dr. Farah Karim-Cooper,director of the Folger Shakespeare Library, deliver a lecture on Shakespeare’s relevance in 2025. This is a free event, but registration is required at bit.ly/FolgerLecture. The theater is located at 201 E. Capitol St. SE, Washington, DC. A reception will follow in the Great Hall at 8 p.m. For more information, call (202) 544-4600.

Primary Care At Home

Providing primary care medical services in the comfort and convenience of your home for patients who have difficulty traveling to an office.

Health

• Care coordination with specialists.

• Access to services such as x-ray and blood work, at home.

• Close communication with patients and their loved ones.

• Accepting Medicare, Medicaid and most major supplemental insurance plans.

Free Public Forum to Generate Greater Support for Unpaid Caregivers

Many of us have needed or will need care as adults, and many of us will provide significant care to family members or close friends at some point in our lives. As we age, many of us will require care and provide significant, often unpaid, care to family members or close friends. As we grow older and live longer, the need for care by family members who are frequently not paid for their caregiving also grows.

At the same time, there is a cost to “unpaid” caregiving. There are actual economic costs, societal and community needs, personnel challenges, social issues, and harderto-quantify costs, mainly when

unpaid caregiving is not supported. These costs are most evident in lost wages and productivity, abandoned careers, and caregivers financially impoverished in their own old age. Unpaid caregiving can also be physically exhausting, mentally draining, and socially isolating, often straining relationships and well-being. Currently, all these costs are disproportionately borne by individual caregivers, not by the society that benefits from them.

To create meaningful change, we must recognize the value and the essential work of unpaid caregivers. That is, we need to “revalue” care. This requires a shift

in public policy that recognizes unpaid caregivers’ immense contributions and ensures they receive the support they deserve. We must invest in policies and programs that provide financial, social and structural support for unpaid caregivers, whose labor sustains our society.

This is the goal of the Montgomery County Commission on Aging’s 2025 Public Policy Forum, “Revaluing Care: Building Policies, Programs, and Connections to Support Caregiving in our Community.”

This free Public Forum will be held on Wednesday, May 21, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Bohrer Park Activity Center in Gaithersburg, Maryland. It will bring together public policymakers, County staff, national experts, and members of the caregiving community to explore the experiences and challenges faced by unpaid family caregivers in Montgomery County.

This event aims to foster meaningful discussions, facilitate participant connections, and promote collaborative problem-solving. Ultimately, the goal is to drive the development and investment in policies and programs that provide more substantial support for unpaid caregivers.

For more information or to register, visit: tinyurl.com/ 2025CommissionForum

Please only register if you plan to attend, due to limited space.

Best ways to combat springtime allergies

Spring is here, and so is allergy season! Beyond the obvious pollen, mold spores thrive in damp environments, especially after seasonal rains, while dust mites multiply as temperatures rise. Pet dander also becomes a bigger problem as animals shed their winter coats.

Meanwhile, grass pollens like Bermuda, Timothy and ryegrass kick into high gear in late spring, especially in May and June. These lightweight particles travel easily on the wind, making you miserable in your skin.

If OTC meds aren’t cutting it, your doctor may prescribe montelukast (Singulair), which blocks leukotrienes, another inflammation trigger that your body makes when faced with pollen. It’s great for asthma-related allergies, but some people experience mood changes or vivid dreams. Ask your doctor about that one.

By Suzy Cohen

For fast relief, many people turn to overthe-counter (OTC) antihistamines like cetirizine (Zyrtec) or loratadine (Claritin). Cetirizine works quickly but can cause drowsiness, so it should be taken at night, while loratadine is non-drowsy but may take slightly longer to kick in. Both block histamine, the chemical responsible for sneezing and itching.

Nasal sprays like fluticasone (Flonase) reduce inflammation and congestion, but they take a few days to work and may cause nosebleeds if overused. This is effective for mild-to-moderate allergies, but if symptoms persist, you may need stronger support.

Antihistamines come in two generations and a lot of people don’t know that. The first-generation meds (like diphenhydramine, or Benadryl) work fast but cause drowsiness. That’s why it got rebranded as a sleep aid! It’s great for nighttime relief but not for daytime function.

The second-generation medications (like cetirizine, loratadine, and fexofenadine) provide longer-lasting, non-drowsy relief. They’re better for daily use but can still cause dryness or headaches.

Some people live on these medications. However, you should know that taking antihistamines or steroid nasal sprays yearround can deplete essential nutrients — what I call the “drug mugging” effect. Here’s what to watch for:

• Antihistamines can lower vitamin C and zinc, both crucial for immunity.

• Nasal steroids may reduce vitamin D,

leading to weakened bones and increased infections.

• Montelukast can impact magnesium and B vitamins, affecting mood and energy.

If you rely on these meds daily, consider supplementing with what they deplete; your body will thank you.

Natural remedies

I love weaving in natural options for allergy relief. Consider the following:

• Vitamin C acts as a natural antihistamine, reducing sneezing and itching.

• Vitamin D keeps your immune system balanced.

• B Complex helps regulate histamine and supports energy.

• Catalase helps detox oxidative stress,

which can worsen allergy symptoms. If OTC meds aren’t helping or your symptoms include wheezing, facial swelling or sinus infections (like sinus fungal balls, which I’ve written about before), it’s time to see a doctor.

You don’t have to suffer all season! If you’re interested in a deeper dive into this topic, I’ve written a longer, more comprehensive article on my website, suzycohen.com.

This information is opinion only. It is not intended to treat, cure or diagnose your condition. Consult with your doctor before using any new drug or supplement.

Suzy Cohen is a registered pharmacist and author of The 24-Hour Pharmacist and Real Solutions from Head to Toe

GORDON

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What foods to avoid when you’re anxious

By Betty Gold

Nowadays it’s easy to feel stressed out.

While there are several things you can do to try to manage stress, you might not realize the foods you eat — or don’t eat enough of — can play a large role in the state of your mental health.

For a better sense of what not to eat (at least, not in excess) when trying to feel better, Kristin Kirkpatrick, MS, RDN, shares some of the worst foods for anxiety.

1. Fast food and junk food

Multiple studies show that improvements in gut health (through nutrition) may help to improve overall health and can positively impact anxiety and depression.

4. Alcohol

A 2013 study found that heavy drinkers had a rewiring of brain activity that made them more likely to have anxiety. Other studies in teens found that binge drinking increased future occurrence of depression and anxiety.

A 2019 study found that poor diet quality was linked to poor mental health, regardless of factors such as gender, age, education, marital status and income level. The study showed that fried foods, foods high in added sugar, and refined grains (which are stripped of their natural fiber) were all associated with increases in depression.

An earlier study in 2013 found that individuals who consumed fast food were more likely to develop depression.

2. High-sugar foods

For how tasty it can be, sugar can play a surprisingly negative role in your mood and mental health. A 2019 study examining depression during the winter months found that consumption of sugar exacerbated depressive symptoms by increasing inflammation in the brain. This finding correlates with several other studies linking excess sugar, inflammation and mood disorders.

3. Low-fiber foods

Low-fiber diets — lacking in plant foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts and seeds — are associated with poor gut health. In turn, gut health is highly correlated with mental health.

Alcohol takes a toll on our systems in several ways. Primarily, it’s very dehydrating, which can affect your mood and disrupt your metabolism (which can then further impact your mood as your body tries to regain balance).

According to American Addiction Centers, “Alcohol can induce panic because of its effects on GABA, a chemical that normally has a relaxing effect. Mild amounts of alcohol can stimulate GABA and cause feelings of relaxation, but heavy drinking can deplete GABA, causing increased tension and feelings of panic.”

5. Foods high in saturated fat

Most of the research linking high-fat diets to depression and anxiety has been conducted on mice. That said, there’s a fair amount of convincing evidence that food high in unhealthy, saturated fats — like fatty cuts of beef and pork, lard, heavy cream, butter, cheese — should be enjoyed in moderation to keep anxiety at bay.

Plus, many fatty foods fall into the other categories listed above: low in fiber, high in added sugars and/or sodium, and ultraprocessed.

© 2024 Dotdash Meredith. All rights reserved. Used with permission. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Dear Seniors,

DIRECTORS MESSAGE

By Charon P.W. Hines

As we welcome the arrival of spring and adjust to the longer, sun-filled days brought by daylight savings time, I am reminded of the beauty of renewal and growth. The chill of winter is fading, and the warmth of spring is here to encourage us to step outside, enjoy the fresh air, and soak in some much needed sunshine. If you are able, I encourage you to take a moment to embrace the season, let the sun’s rays warm your spirit, and absorb the natural benefits of vitamin D.

This season of renewal also marks an opportunity to reflect on the work we have accomplished and the path forward. At the end of February, I had the privilege of speaking at our agency’s Annual Performance Oversight Hearing, highlighting DACL’s achievements in Fiscal Year 2024 and our goals for Fiscal Year 2025. Our work continues to be centered around three key themes:

1. Strengthening relationships with our sister agencies – Collaboration is essential in ensuring District seniors receive the support they need. By working together with other government agencies, we have expanded resources and improved service delivery. You have seen these partnerships at work through events like our Valentine’s Day celebration “Red, White, and You” where we partner with the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) to bring hundreds of seniors together at two recreation centers in the District to celebrate love and community.

2. Streamlining resources to enhance efficiency and customer satisfaction – DACL remains committed to making it easier for seniors and their caregivers to navigate services, reducing barriers, and improving accessibility.

3. Improving the overall well-being of our seniors so they are empowered to “Live Boldly” in the District of Columbia – Every senior in our city deserves to thrive. Through expanded wellness programs, social engagement initiatives, and access to vital services, we continue to support aging residents in living vibrant and fulfilling lives.

As we spring forward, I want to take a moment to acknowledge that April is Stress Awareness Month. Managing stress is essential to maintaining good health and overall well-being, and my team and I are dedicated to ensuring that you have the tools you need to lead stress-free lives. Whether it is engaging in light physical activity, participating in social events, or practicing mindfulness, finding ways to reduce stress can lead to a happier and healthier lifestyle. If you are feeling overwhelmed, take a deep breath or reach out to a loved one. Remember, support is always available. If you are in need of anything, do not hesitate to call my office at 202-724-5626.

We remain committed to ensuring that every senior in the District feels supported, valued, and empowered. Let us embrace the sunshine, take care of our well-being, and continue to live boldly in the city we call home.

In Service, Charon P.W. Hines Director, Department of Aging and Community Living

Celebrating National Nutrition Month

March marks National Nutrition Month and DC seniors are enjoying the amazing food available at DACL dining sites. This year’s theme, “Food Connects Us,” shows just how great nutrition can also allow for great company and experiences. With over 40 locations citywide, DACL ensures older residents have access to delicious, balanced meals that support their well-being.

DACL’s Performance Oversight Hearing for FY 24

- FY 25

Team DACL had an incredible time at the FY24-FY25 Performance Oversight Hearing!

Director Hines, alongside DACL senior leadership, proudly testified before the DC Council’s Committee on Executive Administration and Labor, highlighting the impactful work, support, uplift, and empowerment of DC seniors!

Blossom Tea Party Soirée

Springtime elegance is in full bloom! The Blossom Tea Party Soirée with EventsDC at the Washington Convention Center was a beautiful celebration of the Cherry Blossom Festival, bringing joy, laughter, and community to DC’s seniors. A perfect afternoon of tea, music, and unforgettable memories for District seniors!

Save the Date for Senior Fest

On May 21, 2025, DACL will partner with Department of Parks and Recreation to host the annual Senior Fest at the Grounds at Gateway Pavilion. Senior Fest will feature music, live entertainment, exhibitors, health screenings, games, a hot lunch, and more. To learn more, please visit dpr.events.

Ms. Senior D.C. Reads to DCPS Elementary School Students

Who you gonna call? How ‘solo agers’ do it

By Cathy Habas

Think fast: You need someone to drive you home from surgery and help you around the house for a couple days. Who do you call?

If you couldn’t name a trusted helper, you might be a solo ager.

Around 22% of older adults are considered solo agers — people who aren’t supported by a partner or adult children as they age. Without this built-in support system, solo agers may not know who to lean on when they eventually need help.

“It’s hard, but people do age and need [help]. Very few people will be able to get along without some help somewhere along the line,” said Sara Zeff Geber, Ph.D., author of Essential Retirement Planning for

Solo Agers and the person who coined the term “solo ager” back in 2013.

So, what is solo aging and what does it involve? We sat down with Dr. Geber and Ailene Gerhardt, founder of the Navigating Solo Network, to learn more. Here are some of their key action items for solo agers:

1. Build your social network and discuss roles.

Every solo ager needs to build a support network, which Gerhardt said “takes a lot of work and intentionality.” The idea is to find people capable of helping you in the future. They don’t have to be your best friend, but they do need certain skills.

Here are a few roles worth filling:

• Healthcare proxies are people legally designated to speak on your behalf when

you’re unable to speak for yourself. They must be good communicators, comfortable in a hospital setting, assertive but not aggressive, and capable of advocating for your wishes without imposing their own.

• Health advocates may accompany you to your medical appointments to help you take notes, ask questions, and be a sounding board for decision making. With a signed medical release form, they can also access medical records and speak to healthcare providers and insurance companies on your behalf.

brary or websites like MeetUp to connect with locals with similar interests.

2. Decide where you want to live.

Solo agers may want to consider moving to a more supportive community. “The emphasis here is on community, because that’s really the biggest thing most people will need as they grow older,” Gerber said.

Life Plan communities, formerly known as continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs), and assisted living facilities are some of the more structured options. Or, consider the “Golden Girls” approach and share a big home with a few other people.

If you’re happy where you are and want to stay put, you’re not alone — most people want to live at home as they age. Make sure your proxy knows your wishes so they can advocate for home modifications and in-home care.

• Other helpers can drive you to and from healthcare appointments, pick up prescriptions, care for your pets, and perform any number of other tasks. You may receive formal help from professionals or informal help from neighbors and friends. Consider joining your local “village,” a volunteer organization that helps older adults age in place. Gerhardt also recommends connecting with people of different ages. “Your peer group may be going through similar things at similar times and may not be available to offer the support you need, whereas somebody at a different place in their life may have different availability and knowledge.”

If you’d rather live in a retirement community, talk to your proxy about when that transition should take place and how your care will be monitored.

3. Crunch some numbers.

Geber recommends sitting down with a certified financial planner to understand your financial future.

“What’s the financial picture going to look like if you live to 95? Will you run out

You can meet other people by joining hobby groups, attending local events or volunteering. Check with your local li-

Where solo agers can find help, support

Dear Savvy Senior,

I’m a divorced 68-year-old childless cat lady and have been thinking a lot lately about who will look after me when I get older and my health falters. What resources are available to solo seniors like me, and where can I turn to find a reliable person to be my emergency contact, as well as lookout for my health, financial matters and living arrangements in my elder years?

Dear Solo,

—Solo Ager

This is a very common concern for the 22 million solo agers across the United States who don’t have adult children or other family they can depend on to watch out for their well-being. Here are some tips and resources that can help you plan ahead.

Choosing helpers and decision makers

While older adults who have children or are married usually name offspring or spouses as proxies/decision makers, solo agers most often choose a sibling, niece or nephew, or rely on a trusted friend or neighbor. Whomever you choose, talk to them

first to make sure they’re up for the task. If, however, you don’t have anyone you feel comfortable with, or who is willing to take on that responsibility, you can hire someone. One of the best resources for this is an aging life care manager. These are trained professionals in the area of geriatric care who often have backgrounds in nursing or social work and can serve as your emergency contact, oversee your care and even act as your executor. They can also connect you with professional legal and financial services in your area that can help you manage your affairs.

Aging life care managers typically charge anywhere from $100 to $300 an hour, depending on their location and experience. To search for an expert near you, visit aginglifecare.org.

If you can’t afford this, there are other reliable sources you can turn to for specific help. For example, if you haven’t already done so, you need to prepare a basic estate plan (including a power of attorney, advance directive and a will) to ensure your wishes are carried out if you become incapacitated and when you die.

To help you prepare these documents,

your best option is to hire an experienced estate planning attorney, which can cost anywhere between $500 and $2,000. He or she may also be able to act as your power of attorney or executor, or help you locate a professional in your area that can.

To locate someone, the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (naela.org) and National Association of Estate Planners & Councils (naepc.org) have online directories to help you search.

If you need help with bill-paying, there are services like SilverBills (silverbills.com), or you can work with a daily money manager (aadmm.com) who, in addition to paying bills, can handle tasks like balancing your checkbook and organizing tax information. And to help you navigate care and senior housing options there are certified senior advisors (csa.us).

It’s also a good idea to meet with a financial adviser to help figure out what services and living arrangements you can afford

and what steps you can take to ensure that your financial resources last your lifetime. If you don’t have an adviser, you can find a fee-only, fiduciary financial planner trough the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors at napfa.org.

Some other helpful resources you can turn to include Aging Alone Together (dorotusa.org/agingalonetogether), a program offered by Dorot, which is a nonprofit social services organization that provides practical ways to help solo agers prepare for the future. They are offering a free, six-session virtual workshop (offered weekly) via Zoom starting April 24.

Also see Navigating Solo (navigatingsolo.com), a national clearinghouse of resources for solo agers and information about solo-ager groups.

Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of The Savvy Senior.

By Jim Miller

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Solo aging

From page B-2

of money? You need to know where you stand,” she said. “Let a financial advisor plug those numbers into their spreadsheets. Most run those projections out to about 103 now because people are regularly living to 100 these days.”

Your finances and insurance policies may affect your future living arrangements and care, so make sure you can support the lifestyle you want.

4. Make plans for your pets.

Who will care for your pets when you can’t? Identify people in your support network who love animals, and ask if they’d be willing to care for or adopt your pets if something happened to you. Make sure your proxy knows who to contact if you’re ever hospitalized.

Ideally, they’ll have a chance to meet your pets and learn how to care for them beforehand. Set aside some money to go toward their care, if possible.

5. Do the paperwork.

Create a living will so your healthcare team and proxy know what kind of treatment you want. This requires a lot of selfreflection, so take your time. These workbooks may make the process easier:

• The Conversation Project — What Matters to Me Workbook

• Honoring Choices — Making My Wishes Clear

• Prepare for Your Care — Online Program

• Five Wishes — Digital and Print Workbooks

While you’re at it, have a lawyer draw up your last will and testament so your assets are distributed according to your wishes. A lawyer can also advise you about any

GRANDPARENTS AND GRANDCHILDREN CAMP

Spend a fun-filled week with your grandchildren this summer at the Empowering the Ages headquarters, 401 N. Washington St., Suite 600, Rockville. This summer camp for grandparents and grandchildren (ages 5 to 10) runs from 9 a.m. to noon Monday through Friday. Choose between two sessions: from July 7 to 11 or Aug. 11 to 15. The cost is $200 per adult and one child, $75 per additional child, with no extra fee for additional grandparents. Complete a camp interest form by May 9 at empoweringtheages.org/campETA. For more information, call Janel Peters at (240) 780-8853.

other steps you can take to protect your health, finances, and home as you age.

“If you set up your legal plans, if you have an estate plan in place, it’s not heavy lifting for the person you ask” to be your proxy, Geber said.

6. Live a dynamic life

Once your plan is squared away, it’s time to “live a dynamic life,” as Gerhardt put it. “Lifelong learning, navigating change, finding ways to stay connected, volunteering, mentoring, taking classes, those kinds of things,” she said. “All of that planning is great, but the idea is to plan so you can go live your life.”

More resources to help you plan

Check out these resources for more information on solo aging:

• Ailene Gerhardt’s Navigating Solo Network (navigatingsolo.com)

• Positive Aging Community (retirementlivingsourcebook.com)

• Essential Retirement Planning for Solo Agers by Sara Zeff Geber, Ph.D.

• Your local Area Agency on Aging

No one should navigate the second half of their life alone. It takes some work, but planning ahead means you’ll have support when you need it most.

SHERLOCK HOLMES ANDTHE CASE OFTHE SECRET FORMULA:

Evelyn Auerbach Social Hall at Ring House

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to interviews , and r.

Housing News

By Beacon Staff

Coming soon: The Reserve at Falls Church

A new luxury senior living community is coming to West Falls Church, Virginia. In December 2024, developers broke ground on The Reserve at Falls Church, a new project by Experience Senior Living, the senior housing operator of NexCore Group.

The Reserve at Falls Church will have 215 upscale units for independent living, assisted living and memory care.

The new community will feature a chophouse, a tapas restaurant, an oyster bar and

a sky bar, all with organic ingredients. Wellness amenities will include an indoor saltwater pool and spa, a fitness center with a sauna, and a salon offering hairdressing and nail care services. In addition, to promote connections between residents, the Reserve will include a black-box theater for recording podcasts, a “maker space” for creating art and a kiln for making pottery.

“The Reserve is the pinnacle of luxury among senior communities and offers more than just a place to live — it’s a community of connection and purpose where residents can enjoy elevated living, unparalleled care and a deep sense of connection to their community,” said Phill Barklow, president of Experience Senior Living.

“Breaking ground on The Reserve at Falls Church reflects NexCore’s steadfast belief in the future of senior living. As today’s aging demographic continues to

grow, we are focused on developing communities that meet their evolving needs, offering modern spaces that foster independence and connection,” said Jarrod Daddis, president of NexCore Group.

Construction is expected to be completed in the spring of 2027. This will be the two companies’ 18th senior living property and its second Reserve Collection property.

For more information about The Reserve at Falls Church, visit reservesrliving.com or call (855) 221-3900.

D.C. home renovated, expanded

When a flood damaged the LisnerLouise-Dickson-Hurt Home five years ago, residents had to move to a nearby building on the campus located in Washington, D.C.

For years, the 1941 building had been showing its age — its small rooms and shared bathrooms were “like an old college dormitory,” said L. Ward Orem, CEO of the Lisner-Louise-Dickson-Hurt Home, a community for low-income older adults located in Friendship Heights.

So an extensive renovation began in December 2023, and the assisted living building will reopen next month.

Orem said. “It’s exciting.”

In addition, a brand new 93-unit independent living building is scheduled to open this summer on the same campus. Like the rest of the Lisner-Louise-DicksonHurt Home, the new apartment building, called the Louise on Western, is open to low-income elders who live in D.C.

With the addition of the Louise on Western, the home is now “a full-service campus, from soup to nuts, for low-income elders,” Orem said.

“You could theoretically begin your campus experience in the apartment building,” he explained. If you had a medical setback, a skilled nursing facility is next door, as well as an assisted living facility.

“It’s the same concept as the high-end, private pay continuing care communities, but for people who can’t afford” them, Orem said.

For more information about the LisnerLouise-Dickson-Hurt Home, visit lldhhome.org, email info@lldhhome.org or call (202) 966-6667.

Modena Reserve at Bethesda debuts

An assisted living and memory care

“We have a few of the residents who moved during the flood that are reoccupying space in the renovated building,”

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Can you recall everything in your house?

By Karl Susman

When was the last time you really took a long, hard look at what’s inside your home? Let me tell you a story about why it is important that you do so — and do it as soon as possible.

You never know when something could destroy it all. After one of the many devastating wildfires that hit California, I was speaking with a client whose home burned to the ground. I’m not talking about having a shell of the home left. There was nothing left other than the concrete slab. I walked the space with him, and we were actually able to make out, melted into the concrete, remnants of a pool table that once was the center of attention in the basement. Everything was gone.

The monumental loss experienced by

someone who in one day lost all of their worldly possessions truly cannot be expressed in a few sentences, so I won’t even try. Yet, even after the last of the ashes blew away, a new panic became all to clear: How could he ever know everything that was there so he could properly file his insurance claim and start rebuilding?

The physical house, whose construction required building permits (a tangible record of what was involved and what it cost), seemed doable. There was clear documentation on the bones of the place. Sure, they might have done some minor upgrades without getting permits, but they were nothing earth-shattering. The house could be rebuilt.

But what about all of his stuff?

He kept closing his eyes and telling me,

Ask an At-Home Care Expert

Q: How much care will my loved one need?

A: That’s a good question! Often we get requests for minimal amounts of assistance. On occasion, that is appropriate. However, a need for short-term assistance is often an indicator that more robust care is in order. That’s when the value of a dedicated caregiver cannot be overestimated. The consistency of a dedicated caregiver provides so much.

The companionship of a long-term caregiver can help ward off depression and isolation, which can lead to more serious issues, both mental and physical.

Additionally, a dedicated caregiver reduces the risk of infection and illness brought into the home by short-term caregivers shuttling between many different clients.

A dedicated caregiver can encourage and support routine and enjoyable activities that help maintain a positive attitude and foster overall good health.

Many of our caregivers have been with us since 2002 and have cared for their own family members. They are all thoroughly screened, trained and insured, providing our valued clients with much-needed peace of mind.

Best Senior Care will provide a comprehensive care plan that is customized for your loved one and that fits your budget.

“I had this, and I had that.” I told him, “Start your phone’s recorder and take notes. Lots of notes. Things will continue to come to you a little at a time.”

I told him to refer to photos and video clips taken in the house, anything he had that was, thankfully, backed up in the cloud.

What a job that would be, though, to study every photo or video clip to see what’s in the background. Ignore the people; look at the stuff.

So he embarked on the arduous process of looking at photos and videos and record-

Housing News

From page B-6

and a new look. In February, Denverbased Solera Senior Living announced its acquisition of Brightview Bethesda Woodmont and re-branded the facility as Modena Reserve at Bethesda.

The eight-story assisted living and memory care community has 113 assisted living and memory care residences. Its sister community, Modena Reserve at Kensington, opened in 2021.

“It is our goal to operate communities that inspire a better quality of life for seniors, and Brightview Bethesda Woodmont’s favorable reputation and strong

ing voice memos to describe what he used to have. The memories of his belongings came in waves, as did the fact that many items could not be replaced — such as the ring his grandmother had managed to hold on to while being held in a concentration camp during the Holocaust.

You can’t depend only on your memories

While we can do all we can to prevent loss-

outcomes, combined with its experienced leadership team, makes this a wonderful fit,” said Brittany Patrick, director of investments at Solera Senior Living.

Modena Reserve at Bethesda has a rooftop deck, movie theater, restaurant, pub, café, fitness center, salon and 24-hour concierge services.

Solera operates independent living, assisted living and memory care communities in seven states, including one in Reston, Virginia, called Hunters Woods at Trails Edge.

For more information on Modena Reserve at Bethesda, visit ModenaBethesda.com or SoleraSeniorLiving.com or call (240) 982-2032.

FREE HOUSING AND OTHER INFORMATION

Check off advertisers of interest and mail this coupon to the Beacon with your contact info. Or you may take a picture of your completed coupon and email it to housing@thebeaconnewspapers.com. All coupons received by May 14 will be entered into a random drawing to win luxury coach tickets to New York City courtesy of Vamoose. You need not request information to win.

Classes/ Employment/Events

r Brooke Grove Seminars/ Classes

Home Health/ Adult Day Care

r Best Senior Care

Housing

r Chevy Chase House

r Grandview, The/Erickson

.B4

.B3, B11

.B12, B16

r Greenspring/Erickson . .B10, B16

r Falcons Landing

r Hill House at Beechfield

r Homecrest House

.B8

r Ashby Ponds/Erickson . .B11, B16

r Brooke Grove Retirement Village

r Cascades at Frederick

r Charles E. Smith Life Communities

.B4, B10, B12

.B2

.B5

r Willow Manor at Cabin Branch . .B8

r Woodleigh Chase/ Erickson .

.B7, B12

.B6

.B6, B13

r Housing Initiative Partnership . .B15

r Park View Bladensburg . . . . . .B14

r Park View Columbia .

r Park View Emerson

r Park View Laurel

.B14

.B14

.B14

r Riderwood/Erickson . . . .B11, B16

r Ring House

r The Sylvestry at Vinson Hall

.B5

.B2, B10

. . . . .B13, B16

Remodel/Renovation/ Modification

r Handyman Connection . . . . . . .B5

Skilled Nursing/ Rehabilitation

r Brooke Grove Rehabilitation . .B13

Transportation/ Travel

r Vamoose .

. . .B15

Check the boxes you’re interested in and mail (or email a photo of) this coupon to: The Beacon, P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915-2227; email housing@thebeaconnewspapers.com You may return the free info form on page 5 together with this coupon.

INDEPENDENT LIVING COMMUNITY

Brooke Grove Retirement Village

301-321-8707

18100 Slade School Road

Sandy Spring, MD 20860 www.bgf.org

You’ll feel it as soon as you drive onto our 220-acre campus of lush pastures and hardwood forest—all that makes independent living at Brooke Grove different. Beautiful cottages in a truly picturesque setting. Maintenance-free living, with more time for what you really want to do. Personalized fitness programs, meals prepared by talented chefs, clubs and social events. Neighbors who share your interests and passions. Come for a visit and see why Brooke Grove Retirement Village is one of the most soughtafter retirement communities in the state. Living here is simply different … because what surrounds you really matters.

INDEPENDENT LIVING COMMUNITY

Greenspring Retirement Community

877-589-9570

7440 Spring Village Drive • Springfield, VA 22150 GreenspringCommunity.com

Grow a tidy garden with native plants

By Jessica Damiano

For decades, native plants were relegated to the “weed” section of many American gardeners’ minds. Most nurseries didn’t stock them. But that’s slowly changing.

Native plants provide food and shelter for bees, butterflies, birds and other beneficial critters. They effortlessly grow healthier and stronger than exotic species, seldom need fertilizers or other amendments, and generally require little or no supplemental water once established.

So, why don’t more people plant them?

One reason: Unless carefully selected, the plants in a native garden can get messy, a look that some people embrace but others do not.

It’s one thing if you’re growing a meadow, but you might want things neater in a small urban garden or in a suburban community with a homeowners association.

Greenspring. Everything You Need for Vibrant Senior Living. For active living with peace of mind, all directions point to Springfield’s premier continuing care retirement community.

Fun and Enrichment Every Day

Choose from a variety of stylish residences—all just steps from amenities like a pool, fitness center, restaurants, and more.

Outstanding Financial Value

One convenient Monthly Service Package covers all utilities, property taxes, and maintenance in and around your home.

Health and Well-Being Services

Enjoy easy access to services like an on-site medical and multiple levels of care, should your needs ever change.

Get your FREE brochure today! Call 877-589-9570 or visit GreenspringCommunity.com

6251 Old Dominion Drive

McLean, VA 22101

www.vinsonhall.org

Comfort and Care -- For Residents and Their Families

Among all the complexities of aging, Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia can be the most challenging for the entire family. We all want to know our loved ones are in a safe and secure community --but we also want them to have kind and patient caregivers and a stimulating environment that ensures every day is meaningful. That's why we developed The Sylvestery, the dedicated memory care neighborhood at Vinson Hall Retirement Community. Our private suites and sun-drenched common spaces give residents a cheerful and home-like experience --all in a 24/7 secure environment and staffed by a caring team of licensed nurses. Contact us to learn more at 703-538-2975

But that’s on the gardener, not the plants, because it’s absolutely possible to have a structured and beautiful native garden.

The right plant in the right place

This old mantra emphasizes the importance of considering sunlight exposure, water accessibility and soil pH levels when selecting plants.

Familiarize yourself with the mature sizes of your fledgling plants when deciding where to place them. Don’t, for instance, plant tall natives along a walkway, where they may grow to block access or flop over by mid-season, especially after rainfall.

Place taller plants and those more likely to lean at the back of a border, with shorter, tighter ones in front to help hold them in place and keep edges tidier. For beds that can be viewed from all sides, place the taller plants in the center.

Avoid planting one-offs. Instead, planting clusters of the same species or color will make the garden appear cohesive.

Controlling spread

Because native plants aren’t sterile, as many hybridized and exotic species have been bred to be, some spread readily by

Home inventory

From page B-8

es from happening — for instance, undertaking a process called “home hardening” to help protect our valuables from wildfires — losses still happen. Just last year, Hurricane Helene caused massive damage across Florida and the Southeast. It is bad enough to lose it all, but what can be even worse is not being able to remember what it is you’ve lost.

When you’re done reading this article, pick up your phone and start the video

dropping seeds after they bloom. Others spread via underground runners, sending up new plants as they travel across the bed.

This does not mean they are “invasive” — a term used to describe aggressive exotic plants that spread to outcompete native species. In fact, it’s a desirable trait when aiming to fill a meadow with native plants, just perhaps less so when attempting to appease your HOA.

The solution lies in research. Look for plants with “clumping” or “mounding” habits that will stay put, and avoid those described as “runners” or “fast spreaders.”

Asclepias tuberosa (butterfly weed), for instance, will not move or migrate. Its cousin, Asclepias syriaca (common milkweed), can be aggressive, weedy and difficult to remove.

Both plants are important food sources for monarch butterfly caterpillars and considered beneficial to the ecosystem.

If plants reseed where you don’t want them, remove them and plant them elsewhere or trade them with a friend.

Dig up and divide plants every three years to prevent crowding. And if your natives threaten to become unruly, mow them down before they set seeds at the end of the season. Don’t simply scatter wildflower seeds and expect them not to grow wild. They will, which makes them perfect for a dedicated wildflower bed or a hilly slope, but perhaps less than perfect elsewhere.

Place a ‘carpet’ around them

Consider native grasses, sedges, groundcovers and clover as substitutes for common turf grasses, which rely on ground-polluting amendments, pollinator-killing pesticides, and regular mowing while contributing little to the ecosystem.

If necessary, keep just a small lawn border to define the space (and appease your neighbors), and keep beds and borders neatly edged.

Include native shrubs in your design to retain structure year-round. Statues, arbors, benches and birdhouses also add visual interest.

© 2024 Associated Press. All rights reserved.

recorder. Walk around your house and capture every room, every nook and cranny. Be sure you go everywhere, from the garage to the bathrooms to the basement. Open each cabinet and each drawer. Document it all. If you are ever so unfortunate as to suffer a catastrophic loss, this video, or videos, will remind you what you had in your house. It will be one less thing to torment you while you’re recovering.

© 2024 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Home equity can boost retirement income

By Donna Fuscaldo

Many retirees have built up significant home equity over the years, but surprisingly, they often overlook it in their retirement planning. With the average home equity for homeowners in the U.S. sitting at around $300,000, a house is a valuable asset that can be leveraged to support retirement.

“You can do a couple of different things with your home equity,” said Pam Krueger, founder and CEO of Bostonbased Wealthramp, an SEC-registered adviser matching platform.

“It all comes down to picturing the funnel. It starts wide at the top, and then, as you start to learn there are costs and rules, the funnel gets skinnier.”

The “how” of using home equity in retirement is straightforward — you can either cash out or borrow against it.

The “why” is a bit more complex. For some, tapping into home equity is a way to supplement retirement income, to protect and grow their nest egg.

For others, it’s a way to cover unexpected costs or fund a personal dream. But should you tap into your home equity in retirement? And if you do, what is the best way to go about it?

Downsizing is one option

If you’re worried about cash flow in retirement and are open to moving, selling your property and downsizing to a smaller, more affordable home could free up extra money.

However, while a cheaper location might seem appealing, it’s important to assess whether it could lead to isolation or make transportation difficult.

Beyond improving your cash flow, downsizing to a smaller home and owning it outright can also reduce the risk of running out of money in retirement, according to research from Morgan Stanley.

The investment bank looked at a scenario where a retiree downsizes to a smaller home that she outright owns versus renting a comparable one.

Then, if over time her savings become depleted and she needs income, she could sell the home and live in a rental. In this scenario, the likelihood of running out of money decreases significantly.

When deciding whether cashing out is the best move, you also need to consider tax implications. If you make a profit from selling your home, you won’t have to pay taxes on the first $250,000 in profit for single filers or $500,000 for married couples filing jointly.

However, any profit above that is subject to capital gains taxes, which, depending on your income tax bracket, can range from 15% to 28%.

For example, if you purchased a home for $250,000 and sold it for $800,000, you’d

have a $550,000 profit. Depending on your tax bracket, you could owe between $82,500 and $154,000 in taxes. The larger your equity, the bigger the tax burden.

“This is where it makes sense to sit down with a financial advisor and do a deep dive,” Krueger said.

A line of credit is another

If you intend to stay in your home and require long-term care, a home equity line of credit (HELOC) can be a way to pay for it. HELOCs have a lower interest rate than a personal loan or credit card, and they are quick to obtain.

With a HELOC you have a drawdown period, typically 10 years, where you only pay the interest. After that you are on the hook for the interest and principal.

Currently the average rate on a HELOC is around 8.06%, while the APR on a personal loan is 19.81% and 20.1% for a credit card, according to Bankrate. Keep in mind HELOCs have closing costs which typically range from 2% to 5% of your loan.

A HELOC can also be used as a way to weather market storms. If your retirement portfolio isn’t performing, and you have a choice between selling stocks at depressed prices to support your income or taking out a HELOC, the latter may be the more cost-effective choice. After all, stocks tend to rebound and then some.

In the economic downturns of the late 1960s, early 1970s and early 1980s, Morgan Stanley said, “Our research shows that using home equity to support income during these periods mitigated the losses on retirement holdings and allowed retirees to ride through the turbulence, without significantly damaging their portfolios.”

A HELOC, Morgan Stanley noted, “can act as a financial cushion, allowing the investor to potentially avoid selling portfolio assets at fire-sale prices to provide income.”

Downsizing can be more than moving to a cheaper home. Some people who have a lot of home equity sell their homes, downsize drastically and use some of the proceeds to pursue their dreams. Perhaps you dreamed of owning a jet ski rental in the Caribbean. Or maybe you want to dabble in the stock market with your new freedom.

Bottom line

There are many ways to leverage home equity in retirement. Whatever path you choose, it’s essential to do your research. After all, your home isn’t just where your heart lies — it can also be a tool to protect and grow your retirement nest egg, if used wisely.

INDEPENDENT LIVING COMMUNITY

Riderwood Retirement Community

877-742-4390

3140 Gracefield Road Silver Spring, MD 20904 Riderwood.com

Silver Spring’s Premier Destination for Senior Living Riderwood is the region’s favorite continuing care retirement community for a reason. Three reasons, to be precise:

1. Residences to Fit Your Budget

Choose from a variety of residences that are free from maintenance and big on modern style.

2. Resort-Style Amenities and Activities

You’ll find opportunities for dining, fitness, entertainment, education, and more just steps from your door.

3. Services to Enhance Your Well-Being

Enjoy the convenience of an on-site medical center staffed by full-time providers, plus multiple levels of care, should your needs ever change. Get your FREE brochure today! Call 877-742-4390 or visit Riderwood.com

ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITY Chevy Chase House 202-905-0708

5420 Connecticut Avenue NW Washington, DC 20015 www.chevychasehouse.com

Chevy Chase House provides boutique assisted living for older adults looking for personalized care without compromising lifestyle and active living. In addition to 24-hour nursing available, the community features Life Inspired, the daily activities program that promotes overall wellness, socialization, and a Chef-prepared dining experience. Unique to the Chevy Chase House is its partnership with FOX Rehab to not only provide on-site physical, occupational and speech therapies, but also employs a full-time exercise physiologist to help residents with improving balance and mobility, strength training, and fall prevention programming. Conveniently located on Connecticut Avenue in D.C. Call 202-905-0708 to schedule a tour or stop by Chevy Chase House to learn more.

INDEPENDENT LIVING COMMUNITY

Ashby Ponds

877-664-5445

44795 Audubon Square Ashburn, VA 20147 AshbyPonds.com

Why Choose Senior Living at Ashby Ponds?

There are countless reasons why Ashby Ponds is ideal for your retirement. Enjoy exceptional value, worry-free living, and a community that prioritizes your well-being. Stay active and engaged with a variety of enriching amenities and activities. Plus, gain peace of mind knowing our on-site care is always available when you need it. Ashby Ponds is more than just a place to live; it’s a place to thrive. Discover why Ashburn’s premier senior living community is a great choice for you. Call 1-877-664-5445 to learn more with a free brochure.

LIFE PLAN COMMUNITY

Falcons Landing 703-293-5054

20522 Falcons Landing Circle Potomac Falls, VA 20165 www.falconslanding.org

Located in scenic Loudoun County, Falcons Landing is a non-profit, CARF-accredited Life Plan Community. The award-winning community welcomes any person who has served at least four years in the uniformed services or a U.S. government agency, as well as those with significant connections to the national defense community. Others may also apply for residency on a case-by-case basis. As always, direct admission is available to those seeking a higher level of care, regardless of military or government service. Offering an array of resort-style services and amenities, Falcons Landing provides older adults with a unique opportunity to retire in style.

Call to learn more about Independent Living eligibility or to schedule a tour!

ASSISTED LIVING & MEMORY CARE

18100 Slade School Road

Sandy Spring, MD 20860 www.bgf.org

This community hums with warm-hearted camaraderie and a zest for life shared by residents and staff alike. Experience all that makes assisted living at Brooke Grove extraordinary. Cozy, homelike dwellings with easy access to beautiful courtyards and walking paths. Caring staff trained in using memory support techniques, building independence and lifting self-esteem. Innovative LIFE® Enrichment Programming with meaningful activities and off-site adventures. Visit us to see why Brooke Grove Retirement Village is one of the most sought-after continuing care retirement communities in the state. Living here is simply different … because what surrounds you really matters.

INDEPENDENT LIVING

6701 Democracy Blvd., Suite 150-B Bethesda, MD 20817

TheGrandviewSeniorLiving.com

Why Are So Many of Your Neighbors Moving to The Grandview?

For Vibrant Senior Living in the Perfect Location Seniors across the DMV are planning an active retirement at The GrandviewSM, a distinctive new community coming to Bethesda this fall. Enjoy a variety of stylish residences, resort-style amenities, and the convenience of an on-site medical center staffed by full-time providers. Everything you need is just steps from your door!

The Grandview is the newest community by Erickson Senior Living, a national leader among continuing care retirement communities.

Call 1-855-479-8096 for your free brochure or to schedule your visit to the Sales Center.

The Grandview is pending approval from the Maryland Department of Aging.

Should you get a mortgage in retirement?

By Brian O’Connell

Retirees settling into their golden years may be considering the idea of a new home. Most often, a new home means taking on a new mortgage in retirement. Why buy a new home after retiring? Reasons include downsizing, moving to a more agreeable climate, or being closer to the grandkids.

Yet just like any other homebuyer, retirees face formidable issues like high mortgage rates, elevated home prices, and associated costs on insurance, maintenance and possibly homeowner association fees.

The average U.S. mortgage rate was 6.65% in March, while median home prices are expected to rise to $410,700 in 2025, according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR). A separate NAR report showed that over one-third of U.S. homebuyers last year were 59 to 99 years old, and the majority of them used some form of financing.

The high cost of buying a home is particularly problematic for U.S. retirees living on a fixed income but hoping to secure a good mortgage loan to get the job done.

“Many of the homebuying issues retirees face are similar to younger (people), like higher interest rates, which can limit the size of the mortgage or the size of the home being purchased,” said Melissa Shaw, Wealth Management Advisor at TIAA in Palo Alto, Cal.

However, retirees face a few additional issues when trying to qualify for a mortgage.

“Many retirees are on fixed incomes, often without the ability to earn additional income,” Shaw noted. That means older buyers need to be fully aware of what they can afford and the associated expenses of owning a home, such as maintenance, re-

BEACON BITS

pairs and insurance.

“You’d hate to purchase a home and not be able to afford basic necessities or the things that make retirement enjoyable, like travel, spending time with family and personal hobbies,” Shaw said.

High interest rates projected for the rest of the year can also stall a retiree’s moving plans.

“High rates alone pose a problem for retirees hoping to buy,” said Adam Hamilton, CEO at REI Hub in Richmond, Virginia.

“If they still really want to buy, being flexible with location might help,” Hamilton said, “and making sure to shop around for the best lender is crucial.”

Is it hard to get a mortgage in retirement?

The good news is that with due diligence and a carefully crafted financial plan, retirees can get the mortgage they need for a new home in 2025.

Like with any home purchase, more income and less debt are ideal. Yet that goal can be a unique issue for older homebuyers.

“For retirees, one of the biggest issues they face is income verification, especially if they rely on a fixed income like Social Security or a pension,” said Christy Bunce, president at New American Funding in Irvine, California.

“However, if they have significant assets, that could help them qualify for a home loan,” she said. “Their debt-to-income ratio is also important, as it shows how much they’d have left over to pay their mortgage.”

In addition to any income from work, income sources lenders focus on include:

LIVING ALONE GROUP (VIRTUAL)

Sharing experiences can be valuable to those living alone, whether by choice or loss. Sibley Senior Association (SSA) hosts a discussion group on coping with living alone. (This is not a bereavement group.) The meetings are free and take place on the third Monday of each month from noon to 1 p.m. on Zoom. For more information and to register, call (202) 364-7602 or email Ken Gordon at kengordon@alum.mit.edu at least two weeks before a meeting.

HOME TREE CARE 101 CLASS

When you sign up for a Home Tree Care 101 class with Conservation Montgomery, an arborist/Maryland Licensed Tree Care Expert will come to your community for a walking tour to evaluate the condition of individual trees. They will also demonstrate pruning, mulching and removing invasive vines that you can manage on your own at home. Classes are available in English or Spanish, and the cost is $25. For more information and to register, visit bit.ly/HomeTreeCare101.

Social Security benefits, spousal benefits, disability payments, pension or annuity payments, interest and dividend payments on investments, a 401(k) or IRA.

What to do before applying for a mortgage

Given that their best earning years are likely behind them, retirees should ensure their finances are in order before applying for a mortgage. Telling the right financial story goes a long way in getting a mortgage for older homebuyers.

“Just like anyone else, credit history, FICO Scores, income sources and the ability to repay the loan matter most,” said Matthew Locke, National Mortgage Sales Manager at UMB Bank.

“We recommend paying down revolving debts and fully understanding what payment they can comfortably afford,” Locke said. “Speak to a trusted mortgage professional to fully understand the cost to close a home deal and the monthly payment obligation going forward.”

TIAA’s Shaw advises crossing these items off your mortgage to-do list before applying:

• Ensure you have enough income to pay for the mortgage, associated home expenses, and any emergency or incidental issues not covered by insurance.

• Research the homeowner’s insurance options in your potential location and evaluate the likelihood of those costs increasing.

• Gather two years of income, bank and investment/retirement account statements (your lender may require documents for a more extended period). “Make sure to review your most recent credit report, too,” Shaw advised.

• Use online mortgage calculator tools so you know exactly what you can afford.

• Discuss the options for generating additional income from your investment or retirement accounts with your financial advisor. “Many of my clients set up monthly systematic withdrawals from their retirement accounts to meet the income requirements for a mortgage,” Shaw said.

• Consider using professionals like a mortgage broker and financial advisor to help you navigate the landscape.

Avoid these mistakes when applying for a mortgage

The biggest mistake Shaw sees from retired clients is taking on a larger mortgage than they can afford or not factoring in additional housing-related expenses.

“For example, I had a client who retired and moved from a coastal area to a more inland area in California,” she said. “Although it’s only a few hours away, the difference in the weather is significant. The client didn’t anticipate that he and his family would need to use their air conditioning or pool as often, leading to a sizeable increase in energy and cleaning costs.”

Those often-unexpected additional expenses lead to increased withdrawals from the client’s retirement account.

“My client didn’t have any other income source or the ability to return to the workforce,” Shaw noted. “This meant tightening the budget on some of the other non-essential expenses. Retirees should always ensure a buffer in their budget for unexpected increases in the cost of basics, like utilities, insurance and home maintenance.”

Bottom line

Retirees will increase their odds of getting a good mortgage by presenting lenders with a clear picture showing they’re solid loan candidates.

“Your best move is to show lenders you have stable finances by using assets to bolster income,” said Matt Schwartz, cofounder at VA Loan Network in Dallas, Texas. “Also, focus on your credit scores or don’t make any significant financial withdrawals before applying.”

Take time to find the right house in the neighborhood that meets your financial situation.

“Don’t be impatient about moving too quickly,” Locke advised. “Also, avoid buying too much house and using too many assets to purchase the house.”

© 2025 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

GAITHERSBURG BOOK FESTIVAL

Presented by The Carnegie at Washingtonian Center, the Gaithersburg Book Festival celebrates books, writers and literary excellence. This free event (with free parking) takes place on Sat., May 17 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Bohrer Park, 506 S. Frederick Ave., Gaithersburg, MD. For a complete list of the festival’s programming, visit gaithersburgbookfestival.org.

VOLUNTEER WITH JUNIOR ACHIEVEMENT

Junior Achievement Finance Park is a collaboration between DMV-area school systems, businesses, educators and volunteer mentors to inspire, guide and teach students to be financially capable and ready to take on their futures. Volunteers help guide small groups of middle-school students through a personal budgeting experience, from goal-setting to saving, shopping and bill paying. For a list of individual volunteer opportunities and to sign up, visit myja.org/volunteer.

INDEPENDENT LIVING COMMUNITY

Woodleigh Chase 1-877-211-6968

4595 Burke Station Rd. Fairfax, VA 22032

WoodleighChase.com

Woodleigh Chase Has Everything You Need for a Vibrant Retirement.

For distinctive retirement living, look no further than Woodleigh ChaseSM, the premier senior living community in Fairfax. Enjoy a variety of stylish floor plans, exciting amenities, and services to enhance your health and well-being—all in a location you love!

Stay active and enjoy countless opportunities to explore hobbies, entertainment, education, and more. The on-site medical center is just steps from your door and security staff trained in emergency response is just moments away.

Don’t wait to learn more!

Call 1-877-211-6968 or visit WoodleighChase.com for your free bochure.

REHABILITATION

Brooke Grove Retirement Village

301-321-8707

18100 Slade School Road

Sandy Spring, MD 20860

www.bgf.org

Imagine an extraordinary staff and the best therapies and equipment—in a beautiful environment that rejuvenates and restores. Physical therapy spaces bathed in sunlight. The quiet comfort of a garden walk or relaxing massage. Imagine getting back to the activities that matter to you. Our new, state-of-the-art rehab addition at Brooke Grove Rehabilitation and Nursing Center offers innovative therapy services for seniors, including NeuroGym® Technologies mobility training, the Korebalance system and much more. Visit us to see why Brooke Grove Retirement Village is one of the most sought-after continuing-care retirement communities in the state. Rehab here is simply different… because what surrounds you really matters.

INDEPENDENT & PERSONAL CARE COMMUNITIES

301-244-3579

14508 Homecrest Road

Silver Spring, MD 20906 www.homecresthouse.org

Homecrest House is a non-profit, affordable, subsidized senior adult community nestled amidst 10 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds with its own lake, neighboring Leisure World. The three residential buildings on the B’nai B’rith Homecrest campus provide 235 apartments for Independent Living, some designed for adults with physical mobility challenges, and 42 apartments offering Enhanced Care Services. We are excited to have you come and see our elegantly renovated community buildings. You’re invited to tour this incredible transformation.

For a personalized tour now, call 301-244-3579 or visit us at www.homecresthouse.org

BEACON

Ten safe, livable communities for retirees

By Kathryn Pomroy

Retirement is all about freedom and choice. It’s doing what you want on your terms — like moving to a new town to be closer to family, craving warmer weather, or simply wishing for a different view from your kitchen window.

Making sure the retirement town you choose is safe and yet still provides everything you need when you retire is vital.

Analyzing data from the U.S. Census American Community Survey, Sperling’s BestPlaces and the Bureau of Labor Statistics Consumer Expenditure Survey, GoBankingRates found cities that are both “wealthy” and “safe.” Cities were considered when at least 25% of the population was age 65 or older.

Here are the top 10 ranked for safety and livability with low crime, high retirement income and affordable living for retirees:

1. Oro Valley, Arizona

Oro Valley is a suburban town six miles north of Tucson, Arizona. It sits at the base of the Santa Catalina Mountains.

In 2020, the population was 47,070. Called the “Upscale Tech Mecca” of Southern Arizona, Oro Valley has a median household income nearly 50% higher than most towns of the same size.

• Violent crime per 1,000 residents: 0.57

• Property crime rate per 1,000 residents: 11.41

• Ages 65+ average retirement income:

$52,098

• Single-family average home value:

$525,380

• Livability score: 81

2. Pinehurst, North Carolina

Pinehurst, dubbed the “Home of American Golf,” is a village in Moore County, North Carolina. In 2020, the population

MOST COMMUNITIES

ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY

The Greens at Hammonds Lane: 410-636-1141

Park View at Furnace Branch: 410-761-4150

Park View at Severna Park: 410-544-3411

BALTIMORE CITY

Ednor Apartments I: 410-243-0180

Ednor Apartments II: 410-243-4301

The Greens at Irvington Mews: 410-644-4487

Park Heights Place: 410-578-3445

Park View at Ashland Terrace: 410-276-6440

Park View at Coldspring: 410-542-4400

BALTIMORE COUNTY

Cove Point Apartments I: 410-288-2344

Cove Point Apartments II: 410-288-1660

Evergreen Senior Apartments: 410-780-4888

The Greens at English Consul: 410-789-3000

The Greens at Liberty Road: 410-655-1100

The Greens at Logan Field: 410-288-2000

The Greens at Rolling Road: 410-744-9988

Park View at Catonsville: 410-719-9464

Park View at Dundalk: 410-288-5483 • 55 & Better

Park View at Fullerton: 410-663-0665

Park View at Miramar Landing: 410-391-8375

Park View at Randallstown: 410-655-5673

was 17,581, including the village and the Pinehurst Golf Resort, which has hosted multiple U.S. Open Championships.

In the early 2020s, the area was considered one of the best micropolitan areas in North Carolina for the quality of local amenities, solid medical complexes and tourism.

• Violent crime per 1,000 residents: 0.43

• Property crime rate per 1,000 residents: 3.40

• Ages 65+ average retirement income:

$50,351

• Single-family average home value:

$542,557

• Livability score: 73

3. Bella Vista, Arkansas

Bella Vista is situated at the base of the Ozark Mountains in Arkansas.

The town is considered a retirement community with low crime and abundant medical and recreational facilities aimed at

ENTERPRISE RESIDENTIAL

ARE 62 AND BETTER

BALTIMORE COUNTY (CONT.)

Park View at Rosedale: 410-866-1886

Park View at Taylor: 410-663-0363

Park View at Towson: 410-828-7185

Park View at Woodlawn: 410-281-1120

EASTERN SHORE

Park View at Easton: 410-770-3070

HARFORD COUNTY

Park View at Bel Air: 410-893-0064

Park View at Box Hill: 410-515-6115

HOWARD COUNTY

Park View at Colonial Landing: 410-796-4399

Park View at Columbia: 410-381-1118

Park View at Ellicott City: 410-203-9501

Park View at Ellicott City II: 410-203-2096

Park View at Emerson: 301-483-3322

Park View at Snowden River: 410-290-0384

PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY

Park View at Bladensburg: 301-699-9785 • 55 & Better

Park View at Laurel: 301-490-1526

Park View at Laurel II: 301-490-9730

retirees.

• Violent crime per 1,000 residents: 1.48

• Property crime rate per 1,000 residents: 3.81

• Ages 65+ average retirement income: $32,209

• Single-family average home value: $336,590

• Livability score: 65

4. Rancho Palos Verdes, California Rancho Palos Verdes is located south of Los Angeles on the Pacific Ocean. It’s an affluent community with a median household income of $118,893.

It also offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation, like hiking, camping and walking on the beach. The city had a population of 42,287 as of 2020.

• Violent crime per 1,000 residents: 1.18

• Property crime rate per 1,000 residents: 8.48

• Ages 65+ average retirement income: $72,238

• Single-family average home value: $1,913,039

• Livability score: 58

BEACON

PLANT AND GARDEN SALE

Visit George Washington’s Mount Vernon to shop for heirloom vegetables, herbs, annual flowers, native perennials, trees and shrubs. Estate admission is not required to shop. The sale takes place on Sat., April 26 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the overflow parking lot. The street address is 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy., Mount Vernon, VA. For more information, call (703) 780-2000 or visit bit.ly/MtVernonPlants.

GAS AND STEAM ENGINE SHOW

Visit the Agricultural History Farm Park on Sat., April 26 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sun., April 27 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. for a unique look at Montgomery County’s farming past. Visit historic barns and buildings and check out the farming activity center, all while enjoying the park’s hills, fields, apple orchard and variety of animals. This free event takes place at 18400 Muncaster Rd., Derwood, MD. For more information, visit friendsofthefarmpark.org.

Where to retire

From page B-14

5. Georgetown, Texas

Located about 30 miles north of Austin, Texas, the city has a population of 96,312, according to 2023 census estimates. The estimated median household income in 2022 was $97,533 with the average price of a single-family home of about $443,000.

The crime rate is much lower than the U.S. average, and amenities for seniors are abundant.

• Violent crime per 1,000 residents: 1.59

• Property crime rate per 1,000 residents: 11.71

• Ages 65+ average retirement income:

$46,886

• Single-family average home value:

$442,904

• Livability score: 83

6. Centerville, Ohio

Centerville is a suburb of Dayton, Ohio, with a population of 25,156 in 2022. The town has a median income of $80,518 and the average single-family home sells for just over $329,000.

The town is known for low crime and a lower cost of living than many towns of the same size as well as a robust medical community.

• Violent crime per 1,000 residents: 0.47

• Property crime rate per 1,000 residents: 14.01

• Ages 65+ average retirement income:

$36,275

• Single-family average home value: $329,817

• Livability score: 84

7. Mesquite, Nevada

Mesquite sits on the Arizona state line, about 80 miles northeast of Las Vegas. In 2020, the population was 21,992. Singlefamily home values are on the upper end of $400,000.

Crime is low, the weather is hot and win-

ters are mild. It is a growing retirement community that offers several casino resorts and golf courses.

• Violent crime per 1,000 residents: 1.89

• Property crime rate per 1,000 residents: 11.97

• Ages 65+ average retirement income:

$39,396

• Single-family average home value:

$406,306

• Livability score: 76

8. Lincoln, California

Lincoln is part of the Sacramento metropolitan area in northern California. The city grew 282% between 2000 and 2010, making it the fastest-growing city in the U.S. for cities over 10,000 people. Its population in 2022 was 52,534, with just over 23% over the age of 65.

Lincoln is hot in the summer and cool and wet in the winter. Although home values are high, the Bay area and its abundant recreational activities and medical facilities nearby make Lincoln a top-10 city for retirees.

• Violent crime per 1,000 residents: 1.43

• Property crime rate per 1,000 residents: 6.91

• Ages 65+ average retirement income:

$47,966

• Single-family average home value:

$646,552

• Livability score: 67

9. Prescott, Arizona

Prescott is a picturesque city located in northern Arizona. Over the past several years, the town has grown and flourished, and home prices have skyrocketed.

Known as a vacation spot for tourists, Prescott has low crime, warm summers and mild winters, a welcoming change for people relocating out of colder areas of the country.

• Violent crime per 1,000 residents: 3.51

• Property crime rate per 1,000 residents: 14.42

• Ages 65+ average retirement income: $40,660

• Single-family average home value:

$614,569

• Livability score: 72

10. Huntley, Illinois Huntley is 48 miles northwest of the Chicago Loop. A bedroom community, the population in 2022 was 28,138. The average home in Huntley goes for over $400,000. However, the crime rate is quite low.

The city’s small downtown area has restaurants and shops designed to attract the over-50 age group, and commuting

BEACON BITS

Apr. 15

into the city of Chicago makes it easy to access amenities and healthcare.

• Violent crime per 1,000 residents: 0.42

• Property crime rate per 1,000 residents: 5.19

• Ages 65+ average retirement income:

$30,962

• Single-family average home value: $400,135

• Livability score: 73

© 2024 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

AI AND DISINFORMATION LECTURE

This free lecture from Senior Planet from AARP explores how AI is used to create and spread disinformation. It will also cover best practices for evaluating online information and resources to identify AI-created content. The lecture will take place on Mon., April 15 from 3 to 4 p.m. at Aspen Hill Library, 4407 Aspen Hill Rd., Rockville, MD. Registration isn’t necessary. For more information, call (240) 773-9410.

ACTIVE AGING EXPO

May 1

The City of Gaithersburg holds its annual Active Aging Expo on Thu., May 1 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Activity Center at Bohrer Park, 506 South Frederick Ave., Gaithersburg, MD. This free event features educational talks, interactive demonstrations and preventative screenings, as well as nonprofit organizations with information on health and wellness, and businesses that specialize in serving older adults. For more information, email benjamingaithercenter@gaithersburgmd.gov or call (301) 258-6380.

Money Law &

You’ve saved up; do you have an income plan?

By Cliff Ambrose

Retirement planning is often compared to climbing a mountain. The ascent — the accumulation phase — is about building your wealth, while the descent — the distribution phase — is about strategically living off those savings.

The sequence of returns risk

One of the most significant challenges during the descent is managing sequence of returns risk, which refers to the impact of the order in which investment returns occur during retirement. While the average rate of return dominates discussions during accumulation — because consistent contributions smooth out fluctuations — the sequence of returns becomes crucial during distribution.

Negative returns early in retirement, when withdrawals are being made, can significantly erode a portfolio’s value. This occurs because withdrawals lock in losses, leaving less capital to recover when markets rebound. Managing this risk is critical to ensuring your savings last throughout retirement.

Consider two retirees, each starting retirement at age 66 with $684,848 and with-

drawing 5% annually while both achieving an 8% average return over time.

Retiree A begins retirement in a bear market. Early losses in the portfolio, combined with regular withdrawals, deplete his savings to nothing by age 82.

Retiree B starts retirement in a bull market. Early gains provide a strong foundation, allowing her portfolio to grow even after accounting for withdrawals. By age 90, she has $2.5 million in her portfolio.

Why the dramatic difference? While the average rate of return is the same for both retirees, the sequence of returns risk comes into play. For Retiree A, withdrawing during periods of negative returns compounds losses, leaving less capital to benefit from market recoveries. In contrast, Retiree B’s early gains create a cushion, protecting her portfolio from being quickly eroded by withdrawals.

This contrast demonstrates the critical role timing plays in the distribution phase and why managing early losses is essential.

Steps to mitigate sequence risk

Diversify with safe assets. Allocate part of your portfolio to safe, stable assets

a.m. — Coping and Career Tips for Uncertain Times

#2: Wednesday, April 23, 9:00 a.m. to Noon — Navigating AI and Other Tools to Reshape and Reinvigorate Your Transition from Federal to Private Sector

Participants will learn how to:

• Convert federal resumes into private-sector resumes that pass through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).

• Identify transferable skills and find comparable private sector roles.

• Use AI platforms like ChatGPT and Jobscan to optimize your job search and write effectively.

• Use AI tools to build and maintain a professional network through LinkedIn and social media.

REGISTER SEPARATELY FOR EACH EVENT TO RECEIVE THE ZOOM INVITATION

Learn more and register at:accessjca.org/transition-workshops

such as annuities, bonds or CDs. They can be a safety net during market downturns.

Design a flexible withdrawal plan. Work with your adviser to create a strategy that prioritizes pulling from safe assets during bear markets, reducing the need to sell equities at a loss.

Engage experts early. Assemble a team that includes financial professionals, tax advisers and estate planners to ensure your retirement withdrawal strategy aligns with your broader financial goals.

Accumulation to distribution

Reaching the retirement summit is a major milestone, but transitioning from accumulation to distribution requires critical decisions and adjustments. Start by evaluating whether your current financial adviser is equipped to guide you through this phase. Ask yourself:

• Have they created a comprehensive income distribution plan with tax, estate and health care strategies?

• Have they reviewed how your savings will be taxed, including Roth conversions and required minimum distributions (RMDs)?

• Have they helped plan for long-term care and legacy goals?

If these areas haven’t been addressed, you may need a financial professional specializing in retirement distribution planning.

Build a resilient portfolio

A key aspect of retirement distribution is withstanding market volatility while meeting your income needs. To help weather unstable markets:

Balance growth and safety. Combine growth-oriented investments with stable asset.

Visualize your income plan. Use historical market data to simulate potential outcomes, providing confidence in your ability to sustain your lifestyle.

Plan for tax efficiency

Understanding the taxation of different income sources is critical in retirement. “Buckets” of money — taxable, tax-deferred and tax-free — must be strategically managed to reduce tax burdens and maximize income. Strategies like Roth conversions can be particularly effective in lowering future RMDs and reducing taxes

Make a giving plan that won’t break the bank

By Elena Ladygina

Making decisions about gifting can evoke many emotions. As you think about the legacy you want to leave, you may feel a sense of urgency to make a positive impact in the lives of your loved ones and on the world. In my discussions with retirement-age clients about charitable giving, I like to quote a flight attendant’s warning before takeoff: Put your own oxygen mask on first — before helping others.

Having a clear understanding of your overall financial picture can help you securely incorporate charitable gifting into your financial plan.

Here are a few steps you may want to take to secure your financial future so that you can safely offer financial support to friends, family and the charitable organizations you value.

1. Work with an adviser to review

your goals, evaluate your spending and make a solid long-term plan.

My first suggestion is to talk with a financial adviser who can help you establish a prudent long-term plan based on your lifestyle and goals. Before deciding on a gifting plan, your adviser can help you review your financial situation and evaluate the potential impact of different spending choices — retirement timeline, spending amounts, emergency funds, investment risk, etc.

2. Ask to see cash flow projections.

You may also consider asking your adviser to prepare cash flow projections to help you consider what you are comfortable giving away without putting your long-term financial future in jeopardy. They may recommend that you set aside funds for the unexpected and take steps to ensure that your financial plan can withstand periods of negative market returns.

3. Ask your adviser to stress test your financial plan using Monte Carlo analysis.

I believe that stress testing your plan using Monte Carlo analysis is another wise move. This type of analysis is an approach your adviser may use to help ensure your financial plan can withstand and succeed in all market cycles. A Monte Carlo analysis considers a wide range of outcomes and may uncover hidden insights. We cannot predict the future, but Monte Carlo can shed light on the path ahead and consider the sea of probabilities.

4. Evaluate various gifting strategies. Evaluating different gifting strategies, prioritizing your goals and creating a gifting budget can also be valuable in the process.

Gifting during your lifetime can be very fulfilling — as you can witness the immedi-

ate impact of your generosity. However, these gifts are irrevocable, and you lose access to those funds permanently.

Leaving bequests (gifts designated in your will) allows for more flexibility in your lifetime. This approach still allows you to give gifts in line with your values, though you do give up the opportunity to witness the impact of those gifts firsthand.

Being thoughtful when designing your charitable giving strategy and continuously monitoring progress are key to both financial success and alignment of values.

5. Consider qualified charitable distributions.

Qualified charitable distributions (QCDs) can be a win-win strategy to make an impact on charitable organizations and your tax planning. QCDs allow individuals who are over the age of 70½ to donate money directly to qualified charities from their IRAs. Qualified donations made directly from an IRA count toward your required minimum distributions but are not included in your income. This can be a valuable strategy for those seeking to reduce tax liability and support causes that are important to them.

Here are some considerations:

• If you are required to take an RMD but do not need the income, a QCD can be an effective way to donate directly to charity and avoid paying income tax on that distribution as the donor does not report the QCD as taxable income.

• You can make a QCD of exactly your RMD amount (if it is below the limit for QCDs) and keep that amount out of your adjusted gross income.

• QCDs can help manage your adjusted gross income (AGI) bracket and be even more valuable for those managing Medicare premiums as a QCD reduces the income that Medicare premiums are based on.

• The 2024 QCD limit is up to $105,000 per person.

• QCDs must be transferred directly to a qualifying charity, so those looking to donate to donor-advised funds and private foundations will not benefit from this approach.

• QCD donations are not tax deductible. However, the tax benefit of the distribution amount not being included in your AGI can create other tax advantages, such as reducing income phaseouts for other deductions and credits.

The bottom line for those with a strong desire to give back to their families, their communities and to charity is that clearly your heart is in the right place. Now you just need to make sure your finances and your gifting plan are in place to make your generous goals a reality.

The information contained herein is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as the provision of personalized investment advice, or an offer to sell or the solicitation of any offer to buy any securities.

Retirement lessons learned over my career

I worked 34 years before retiring and have been retired from full-time work for 29 years. I have made some good decisions and some not so good, and I hope you can learn from both. First, I will discuss what I believe were good decisions.

1. When you look for fulltime employment, see if you can find an employer that offers a defined benefit plan. Although most employers no longer offer defined benefit plans, unions are now being more aggressive and are insisting on them. Since I retired at 58, I have received over $700,000 in pension payments from my defined benefit plan.

count. [Ed. Note: This will increase your tax that year, but you’ll pay tax at a lower rate provided the conversion doesn’t raise your tax bracket.] Try to avoid pushing your taxable income into a higher marginal tax bracket.

By Elliot Raphaelson

2. If your employer offers a defined contribution plan, such as a 401(k), always contribute at least as much as necessary to obtain the maximum employer match. By making maximum contributions to my plan and receiving a 50% match, when I retired at age 58, the account was worth several hundred thousand dollars, which I rolled over into an IRA account.

3. Whenever your yearly taxable income is lower than usual, convert your traditional, non-Roth retirement plan into a Roth ac-

Retirement income

From page 13

on Social Security benefits.

Avoid common retirement myths such as:

The 80% income rule. Many assume retirees need only 80% of their preretirement income, but most aim to maintain their full lifestyle. Plan for a realistic spending level to avoid shortfalls.

The 4% rule. While once considered

4. If you have reached your required beginning date — which means you are required to take required minimum distributions (RMD) from your traditional retirement accounts — use the qualified charitable deduction (QCD) to make charitable contributions before you take any yearly RMD. This will reduce the amount you have to withdraw to meet your RMD by the amount of your charitable contribution. [Ed. Note: Do this in a year when you itemize deductions so you can take advantage of the charitable deduction.]

5. If you have earned income from selfemployment, make sure you take all legal tax deductions, including premiums and Medicare premiums, as deductions on their tax returns.

6. If you have a hobby or skills you enjoy, try to find a way to turn these hobbies and skills into profitable side income.

a safe withdrawal rate, the 4% rule doesn’t account for market volatility or today’s low-interest-rate environment. A tailored strategy based on your unique circumstances is more reliable.

Market volatility can derail even the bestlaid plans. Working with an adviser who can proactively adjust your portfolio ensures you remain on track despite economic shifts.

© 2025 Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Peace of Mind is Priceless

For example, even though I was employed full-time at a major bank for 23 years, I was able to earn substantial income with considerable tax deductions as a college instructor, a freelance writer and book author. I was able to earn almost as much in these activities as I earned in my full-time positions.

Because I had already been making retirement planning presentations at my bank, Dow Jones hired me as a consultant to conduct retirement planning seminars for its employees.

Not all my decisions were optimal. The following are some maxims that I didn’t always follow. If I had, the results would have been more favorable.

—Always make your new contributions

to retirement accounts to Roth accounts rather than traditional accounts.

—Establish retirement accounts for nonworking spouses with contributions from your earned income. Using this option, you can create an additional IRA for your spouse using the same maximum annual limit.

—Allocate more than 50% of your retirement account assets to equities. I generally allocated no more than 50% of my retirement accounts to equities. Allocating more than half of your retirement assets to stocks will maximize growth, especially for young workers.

Elliot Raphaelson welcomes your questions and comments at raphelliot@gmail.com. © 2025 Elliot Raphaelson. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Arts & Style

Sister Act: A nun on the run at Ford’s Theatre

By Mark Dreisonstok

Sister Act, the musical based on the 1992 film, is back and currently playing at historic Ford’s Theatre in Washington, D.C. Yet this production is not just a musical adaptation of a comedy that starred Whoopie Goldberg. It’s a spiritually uplifting tourde-force that suggests that being in touch with the Divine and with what it means to be human may be one and the same.

For those unfamiliar with Sister Act, the story is set in 1978 and revolves around Deloris Van Cartier, a singer whose main concerns initially are her career, self-promotion and an aspiration for wealth.

Her life changes, however, when she witnesses her boyfriend, Curtis, the leader of a cohort of criminals, shoot one of his henchmen who has turned police informer. Deloris must flee for her life.

A caring policeman, Eddie (“Sweaty Eddie,” whom she recognizes as the boy from high school who was nervous around the girls), arranges for her to hide and receive protection in a Catholic convent until Deloris can testify in court.

Ironically, the convent is in need of her help as well: The nuns there sing in a

choir, but in a tone-deaf manner, to put it mildly. Deloris undertakes the role of choir director and trains the sisters to sing angelically, if in a Gospel style unconventional in Catholic tradition. Deloris also infuses the nuns with the showmanship and disco of the day.

While the convent choir gives Deloris moral guidance and direction in life, its popularity leads to television exposure and thus brings her whereabouts to the attention of Curtis and other villains, who are determined to murder her before she can testify as a witness in court.

Songs reveal characters

Yet what lies at the heart of Sister Act is the conflict (perhaps more appropriately termed a “love-hate relationship”) between the convent’s traditionally minded Mother Superior and free-spirited, worldly Deloris.

Nia Savoy-Dock, who plays Deloris, takes on the role energetically, with charisma and abandon. As the Mother Superior, Sherri L. Edelen delivers a credible performance as a devout woman confronted by the challenges of an increasingly secular society.

Each character has a song delineating

the divergent points of view. For Deloris, it is “Take Me to Heaven,” and for Mother Superior, it is “Here Within These Walls.”

A heartwarming aspect of the show is how each woman helps the other appreciate her point of view, a theme especially well brought out in this fine production directed by Jeff Calhoun.

ness. Williams sings “The Life I Never Led” poignantly, bringing out the inner struggle between choosing life in a convent or the real world.

A standout performer here is Kanysha Williams as shy, diffident Sister Mary Robert, a postulate who at last gains confidence and her own voice — her singing voice, certainly, but also a new assertive-

“I Could Be That Guy” is performed very effectively by Joe Mallon as “Sweaty Eddie,” who fantasizes that he is not nervous and nerdy but cool and charming to the ladies, especially Deloris, with whom he is smitten. Derrick D. Trulby Jr. makes for a wonderful Curtis Jackson, especially

Gail Kohn has helped tens of thousands of older adults during her 40-year career. Our cover story continues on p. 18.

Nia Savoy-Dock leads the cast of Ford’s Theatre’s production of Sister Act. With music by Alan Menken, the musical, which is based on the 1992 film, conveys an uplifting message of redemption.

PHOTO BY SCOTT SUCHMAN

MAY EVENTS

Shostakovich’s Fourth & Schnittke

oseda at the helm, Lisa Batiash W Wiith N hvvili’s performances of Schnittke’s postmodern, genre-defying Violin Concerto

ry No. 1 are “full of fire, imbued with the spirit of discove y……” o e evvoking “the sense that anything could happen.” Noww, nces ha D.C. audie avve a chance to experience the “fantasy and furyy… … a performance to cherish” (Classical Explorreer). e To close, Shostakovich’s revvolutionary Symphony No. 4 unleashes a wild, riveting, glorious assault on the senses

Gianandrea Noseda , conductor

Lisa Batiashvili , violin

May 1–3 | Concert Hall

Mahler’s Sixth

Groowwling marches. Nostalgic lullabies. Thunderous hammer blows of fate. Mahler’s Symphony No. 6 seizes audiences from its very first notes, taking us on a dream-like journey through the composer’s pts of dark destiny conce y, , heroic struggle, and quiet bliss. Don’t miss this tragic masterpiece conducted by Noseda, whose Mahler performances are celebrated as “deevvilishly good” (Bachtrraack).

Gianandrea Noseda , conductor

May 8–10 | Concert Hall

Kennedy Center Chamber Plaayyers: Summer Concert

Beethoven’s Missa Solemnis

om the heart, ma “Fr ay y it again go Beethoven wrote above the ope

s o to the heart,” an inspired ning “K e Kyyrie” in the

manuscript of his greatest choral work, the Missa Solemnis

The W Waashington Chorus and remarkable guest soloists

Erika Grimaldi, Rihab Chaieb, Saimir Pirgu, and Marko Mimica join the NSO for this infrequently performed epic mass—a vast symphonic statement of mysticism, drama, y ed intimac and sacr cyy.

Gianandrea Noseda , conductor

Erik a Grimaldi , soprano

Rihab Chaieb , mez zo-soprano*

Saimir Pirgu , tenor*

Marko Mimica , bas s-baritone

The Washington Chorus

Eugene Roger s , Artistic Director

May 15–17 | Concert Hall

*NSO subscription debut

ein, Da Bernst awwson, & Gershwin

a The NSO brings you William Dawwson’s stirring Negr Ne ro o F Foolk Symphony ewY —a work one New Yoork critic called “the most distinctive and promising American symphonic proclamation which has so far been achieved.” Joshua rst W Weeile e ein completes the program with Bernstein’s r ever--popular Symphonic Dances from W Weest Side Story rsh and Ge hwwin’s jazz-infused Rhapsody in Blue

Joshua Weilerstein , conductor

Comprising titled musicians of the National Symphony Orchestra, this acclaimed ensemble presents chamber musicclassics

Jon Kimura Parker , piano

May 29–31 | Concert Hall

music classics.

Aaron Goldman , flute

Lin Ma , clarinet

Ricardo Cyncynates, violin

Jane Bowyer Stewart , violin

Daniel Foster, viola

David Hardy , cello

Lambert Orkis , piano

Lisa Emenheiser , piano

Eric Schnobrick , harmonium

May 11 | Terrace Theater

THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS

Gail Kohn

From page 1

volunteering within any village is a purpose.”

Kohn’s early work in the village movement made her a hot ticket on the lecture circuit. She traveled the country, speaking about villages and their focus on volunteerism. In fact, Kohn is a bit of a local legend. She admits that some people, when they hear her name, say, “You’re Gail Kohn? You helped my friend!”

From Baltimore to Michigan to D.C.

Kohn grew up in Baltimore, where at age 11 she opened a makeshift daycare in her back yard. Although her intention was to raise money to buy a Chincoteague pony (which never happened), she ended up discovering her talent for creating connections.

“As a result of [the daycare], the parents became friends. When you start introducing

Sister Act

From page 16

in his number “When I Find My Baby.”

The cast of nuns performs a highly entertaining number of “It’s Good to Be a Nun” with Deloris, who is none too sure of the truth of that statement.

Dramatic touches

Ford’s Theatre is a classic venue, and the production takes full advantage of this with

people, all kinds of things happen,” she said.

Whenever you meet someone new, Kohn explained, “you’ll be better off. You’ll know more, or it would be easier to get something done.”

Kohn left the East Coast for the University of Michigan, where she met her husband. Although she wanted to study art history, her late father had encouraged her to be practical (“You will always have to get a job,” he said), so she graduated with a degree in nursing.

“That education proved to be, throughout my entire career, extraordinarily valuable,” Kohn said. When she was in her early 30s, Kohn got a master’s degree in healthcare administration with a focus on long-term care from George Washington University.

That led her to a job at Goodwin House in Northern Virginia, where she stayed for eight years. After that, she served as founding executive director of Collington, a continuing care retirement community that she

classical theater allusions, including some scenes performed on a balcony (as in a classic Shakespeare play), a Greek-style chorus in Eddie’s “I Could Be That Guy,” and the shot which rings out as Curtis guns down his nemesis. The audience gasped at the gunshot, perhaps in memory of the assassination that took place in Ford’s Theatre.

The sets were designed appropriately by scenic designer Paige Hathaway, with beautiful stained glass and rounded cathedral arches. The staging is colorful in song num-

helped open in Mitchellville, Maryland.

Early advocate for villages

Kohn’s affiliation with Capitol Hill Village came about because of a friendly conversation on a plane within earshot of someone who was looking for someone to lead the new Capitol Hill Village. “Two weeks later, I had the job,” she said.

Kohn’s connections led her to Age Friendly DC, where she helped create more affordable assisted living in the city.

But she’s perhaps most proud of empowering older residents and allowing them the opportunity to speak up about their needs.

“That’s why Age Friendly has been so much fun for me because we [tell people], ‘What you say is going to matter. We’re going to do things based on what you say.’”

Definitely not retired

Although Kohn recently stepped down

bers like “Take Me to Heaven,” “Fabulous Baby” and “Spread the Love Around.” Costume designer Ivania Stack, lighting designer Max Doolittle, music director William Yanesh, and Calhoun (this time as choreographer) all deserve high praise as well.

Sister Act also offers food for thought. It invites us to ponder the extent to which religious and community institutions effectively serve people today. Likewise, the musical illustrates the still-relevant struggle between wanting to maintain tradition

from Age Friendly DC, she’s still as busy as ever, assisting the state of New Hampshire with its aging plan. She’s also recruiting volunteers for Friendship Bench, a nonprofit that enlists older adults who listen to and advise younger people.

She also volunteers at her old job, Capitol Hill Village, which, coincidentally, is just across the street from her home. She no longer works full-time, but she’s definitely not retired.

“I hate the word retirement. I think it labels people as not engaged anymore,” Kohn said. “I volunteer and will continue to volunteer.”

Seabury will present the Leadership in Aging awards at the “Evening with Seabury Under the Stars” event at the Wharf on May 8 at 6 p.m. Early bird tickets are available until April 7. For more information or to buy tickets, visit seaburyresources/lia or call (202) 849-8082.

and yet “think outside the box” to gain broader appeal.

This production of Sister Act, which plays through May 17, runs two-and-a-half hours, including a 15-minute intermission, during which guests are encouraged to explore the on-site museum. The show may be frightening for the very young, due to violence and threats of violence throughout the plot. Matinee discounts are available for people aged 60 and older. For tickets, see fords.org or call the box office at (888) 616-0270.

A taste of childhood that sparks glee

It’s not a good look when a man of a certain age (yes, me) freezes an entire dinner party by jumping up and down with glee.

But I confess — and I would do it again. Such was the pleasure of tasting Apple Brown Betty once more.

For me, ABB was the quintessential 1950s dessert. They must have served it every other day in the school cafeteria when I was in third grade. Then and now, it’s crusty and chunky, equal amounts sweet and tart. It was — and is — utterly wonderful.

By Bob Levey

The hostess of the dinner party was extremely gratified by all my squealing and all my praise, but not nearly as gratified as I was.

Memory Lane is sometimes paved with ruts. But to sample the Betty Crocker ABB recipe (yes, it was Betty’s that she used — I asked) was the smoothest road I’ve traveled in quite some time.

How much time since ABB had last graced my palate? Best guess: more than 65 years.

If you’ve never had the pleasure, Apple Brown Betty is a baked dessert consisting chiefly of sliced Granny Smith apples bathed in apple cider.

A top layer of butter, brown sugar, bread

crumbs and cinnamon is applied. Then additional layers — same as the first — are fashioned and added, stacked one atop the other, like lasagna.

Then, for you recipe nerds, into the oven at 350 degrees it goes, for between 45 and 55 minutes, or until the topping is brown (thus the dish’s middle name). Ice cream optional.

I would never argue that third grade in the 1950s was a bellwether of very much, other than children practicing how to hide under their desks if nuclear bombs ever arrived.

But ABB was everything a kid could want or need, then or now — delicious, wholesome and filling.

Our school cafeteria did not top ABB with ice cream. But since when did any school ever get it about extra taste and extra fun, anyway?

And since when did any school ever successfully police the black market in ABBs?

We precocious little calorie hounds would bet our lunchtime ABBs on everything under the sun — whether it would rain that afternoon, whether rock and roll was a passing fad, whether the New York Yankees would win the pennant forever more. If memory serves, I won more often

than I lost. And my second ABB always tasted as good as the first — perhaps better, since I had won it fair and square from some classmate who just didn’t get it about the Yankees and their talents.

There’s only one abiding debate about ABB: Who was Betty?

History has no conclusive answer. Evidently, ABBs first became popular in the post-Civil War South. Folklore says that Betty was an African-American cook who blundered into ABBs when she accidentally cooked a baked apple for too long and tried to cover up her mistake with cinnamon.

But if folklore is wrong, her dish is right. More than right. It screams, “Nice, smooth, glorious.”

The other uncertain morsel of ABB his-

Friday Morning Music Club

tory concerns Betty Crocker. She and her apron were everywhere in the 1950s. Housewives swore by her, even though her recipes were as drab as white bread.

Betty has been mocked in the years since because her ABB recipe does not include a dash of nutmeg.

Perhaps she thought that nutmeg was too out-there for her target audience. Regardless, not even Betty’s play-it-safe ABB recipe can undermine the glory of the dish. Nutmeg only makes it more glorious.

I realize it’s not the 1950s anymore. I realize that in the 2020s, people watch their diets. So, I’m duty bound to add these statistics: In one serving of Betty’s ABB, there are 410

ENJOY OUR FREE CONCERTS

FMMC Chamber Series

WASHINGTON, DC

Saturday, April 12, 3 pm

Martin Luther King Library

Friday, April 18, Noon and Friday, May 16, Noon

Live! at 10th & G (First UCC DC)

MARYLAND

Friday, May 9, Noon – Woman’s Club of Chevy Chase

Thursday, April 3, 1:00 pm and Friday, May 16, 1:00 pm

The Mansion at Strathmore

NORTHERN VIRGINIA

Saturday, April 5, 2:00 pm and Saturday, May 3, 2:00 pm

Westminster at Lake Ridge, Woodbridge

Friday, April 4 & 11, Noon and Friday, May 2 & 9, Noon St. George's Episcopal Church, Arlington

Sunday, April 6, at 3:00 p.m.

The Lyceum, Alexandria

Tuesday, May 13, at 7:30 p.m.

Goodwin House, Alexandria

Friday, April 25, Noon

Sherwood Community Center, Fairfax

MAJOR CONCERTS

Arioso Chorale and Orchestra, Thursday, May 1, 8:00 pm and Saturday, May 3, 8:00 pm at the Lutheran Church of the Reformation, 212 East Capitol St. NE, Washington, DC

Avanti Orchestra on Saturday, May 17, 7:30 pm at the Masonic National Memorial, 101 Callahan Dr., Alexandria

Musicians and music lovers are welcome to join FMMC. Interested in singing or playing in our concerts? See fmmc.org for more information on virtual or in-person auditions for voice, piano, and instruments.

HOW I SEE IT

Scrabble answers on p. 23.

Crossword Puzzle

In Your Own Words By Stephen Sherr

Across

1. Covering for a tooth, or tube of toothpaste

4. “Sure; that’s what ___ all say”

8. Elephant tines

13. Start of a bone doc

14. Capital city east of Madrid

15. Song title words, before “Extremes” or “Pieces”

16. Basis of being a bit bananas

19. One of twelve on a Manhattan map

20. It helped to deliver the canoe in Deliverance

21. Cut and paste frames of film

22. Settings for Road Runner cartoons

24. Toodle-oo in Toulouse

27. Wide shoe size

30. Foundation of the fidgets

33. Agreed to make monthly payments

34. Kill a bill

35. Detests

38. Half that usually has the bigger hits in a jukebox

40. It may go down Memory Lane

41. “I ___ disturbance in the Force” (Qui-Gon Jinn)

44. Powerful fuel, according to some ads

50. Start of the first A in NCAA

51. Fashion magazine issues

52. “Hurry! The bus is ready to go”

53. With Sunni, a branch of Islam

55. Mai ___

57. Widow of a Beatle

58. Compulsion cause

63. “___ this a 10/10 for annoyance”

64. Newspaper nickname

65. Hamilton has two

66. Item on a cop’s belt

67. Nation with common interests

68. Any third of Fat Albert’s catchphrase

1. Cowardly 2. Sign a police statement

Greek letter that is an anagram for HIP

Little Tenderness (Otis Redding hit)

5. English words that follow HIP HIPs

6. Flightless bird

7. “___ out!” (ump’s call)

8. Busy

9. Type of tangelo

10. Briefly microwaved the butter

11. Middle of a BACKTRACK

12. Sauce on a Chinese restaurant table

13. The Patriots won the most Super Bowls during his term in office

17. More apt to peek in windows

18. “___ before liquor, never been sicker”

23. Tilted

25. Anonymous litigant

26. T-shaped contraceptive device

28. Ending for bachelor- or luncheon-

29. Employee Stock Options, briefly

31. Answers to irrelevant survey questions

32. Fly through the air

35. “___ boy!”

36. Englishman

37. International waters

38. It joined the Big 12 conf. in 2024

39. Director Leone, who pioneered the spaghetti Western

41. George Carlin hosted its first ep. in 1975

42. It helps you to see

43. It helps you to smell

45. (Mel) Brooks’ best friend

46. Second and third words of a bedtime prayer

47. Immediately!

48. Degrees in a right angle

49. Nautical miles per hour

54. Sexologist, Shere

56. Pen name of advice columnist Pauline Phillips

58. 12 1/2 cents

59. It has been Common for over 2000 years

60. The NFL’s “Organized Team Activities”

61. ‘Net address

62. “No dice”

Bob

From page 19

calories, 11 grams of total fat, four grams of protein and 76 grams of total carbohydrates. But if any or all of that deters you, don’t let it.

Follow my lead. Be on the lookout for a dinner party hostess who can pluck one’s boyhood strings — and who will be gratified by whooping, hollering and applause. Bob Levey is a national award-winning columnist.

Classifieds cont. from p. 22

WANTED: OLDER VIOLINS, GUITARS, BANJOS, MANDOLINS, UKULELES. Musician/collector will pay cash for older string instruments. Jack (301) 2792158, leave message & phone number (please speak slowly).

BUYING COINS, ANTIQUES, MOVING? Downsizing, liquidating an estate? Cash paid for gold, silver, jewelry, wristwatches, old toys, old halloween and xmas decorations, books, records, musical instruments, american coins, old baseball cards and comics, old golf and sports memorabilia, etc. Please call Tom 240-476-3441 thank you.

OVERFLOWING BOOKSHELVES? Donate gently used books, magazines, CDs & DVDs! Free same-day pickup, any genre. Declutter & support literacy! Call 703-980-7421 mdbookpickup@gmail.com

ALWAYS BUYING SILVER, gold-filled & gold jewelry, Old Silverware & holloware marked “Sterling”, old fountain pens, old tobacco pipes, dental gold, the old stuff... What do you have? Call or text Alex at 571-4265363. DMW area I’ll pickup!

I BUY GUNS: Military/Civilian & MILITARY MEMORABILIA. I am a licensed Firearms Dealer and can legally purchase from you. Don’t risk selling to unlicensed dealers. Tim Frank 301-201-0241. historian1975@gmail.com. www.midatlanticmilitaryantiques.com

DEL RAY GARDENFEST

ONE BIG HAPPY

By Rick Detorie

Apr. 27

This free festival features garden demonstrations, gardener info booths, and interactive gardening activities. To participate, visit the Colasanto Park baseball field at the intersection of Commonwealth and Mt. Vernon Aves., Alexandria, on Sun., April 27 from noon to 4 p.m. For more information, visit delrayalx.wixsite.com/gardenfest2025.

Paul Riekhof P: 240-399-7899 F: 240-553-1744 priekhof@jgllaw.com For estate planning, probate, trust administration, contested estate litigation and so much more, knowing where to turn for the right advice can make all the difference in preserving your legacy. When you need us, we’re here.

CLASSIFIEDS

The Beacon prints classified advertising under the following headings: Business & Employment Opportunities; Caregivers; Computer Services; Entertainment; For Sale; For Sale/Rent: Real Estate; Free; Health; Home/ Handyman Services; Miscellaneous; Obituaries; Personals; Personal Services; Vacation Opportunities; and Wanted. For submission guidelines and deadlines, see the box on page 23.

CAVEAT EMPTOR!

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

EMPLOYMENT & REAL ESTATE ADS:

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

MY NAME IS LETICIA GARCIA and I’m a Home Health Aide in search of caring for your loved one. I have 18+ years of experience along with excellent references. I can be reached at 240-855-2477. I hope to hear from you soon and God bless.

MOBILE HAIR & NAIL SERVICES - WE COME TO YOU. Professional Licensed Hair Stylist. Women and Men’s Services - All Hair Types. Cuts, Styles, Roller Sets, Color, Perms, Men’s Cuts & Facial Grooming, Manicures & more. Call 301-338-8251

A CARE AGENCY - Been in business for more than 10 years. Experienced nurses, CNAs, GNAs. Any hours you need. Flat rate for live-in. Duties include cooking, housekeeping, bathing, errands, etc. Tel: 667-231-8235

A HOME HEALTHCARE- Experienced nurses, CNA, GNA are available 24/7. Cooking, companionship, personal care, housekeeping, driving. Full/Part-time or live-in care. 15 years’ experience. 240-533-6599.

CALL WINNI ZERA AT 202-509-6446, Over 20 years of elderly care experience in Northern Virginia. If you live in Northern Virginia and in the need of Elderly Care please give me a call at 202-509-6446 ask for Winni.

M&D HEALING HOMECARE AGENCY serving Montgomery County, MD. Our mission is to provide high-quality, compassionate, and personalized in-home care services to seniors and individuals with disabilities. We aim to enhance the quality of life of our clients while allowing them to remain in the comfort of their homes. We are a licensed and insured non-medical homecare provider. Our services will include dependable registered nurses, personal care, companionship, respite care, and specialized care for individuals with chronic conditions. We are located in Silver Spring, MD. Please visit our website for detailed info. Https://www.mdhealinghcs.com: Contact # 301-388-0560 or 301-2549103. Email: abra_dessali@hotmail.com or info@mdhealinghcs.com.

COUGAR CARE HEALTH AND HOME

SERVICES We are a long term health and home care agency serving the adult community in the Washington DC Metropolitan Area. We provide CNA’S, Caregivers, Nurses, Companions, Housekeepers, Personal Assistants, Drivers, Personal Trainers or any other live in or live out employee needed. For more information and to place an order call #202-317-0679.

COMPUTERS, TELEVISIONS, CELL

PHONE Help For Seniors. We offer patient and thorough help for seniors with all matter of technology. We come to your home. We service MD, VA and DC. Call Senior Tech Pro at 301337-0028. Available 24/7 Ask for Philip.

TAX PREPARATION. Licensed CPA 35+ years, reasonable rates; will travel within 20 miles. Located in Gaithersburg near Rte 270/370. DIANE CHRISTEN CPA; dianechristen@aol.com; 240-355-1135 cell.

WESLEY FINANCIAL GROUP, LLC Timeshare Cancellation Experts. Over $50,000,000 in timeshare debt and fees cancelled in 2019. Get free informational package and learn how to get rid of your timeshare! Free consultations. Over 450 positive reviews. Call 855-626-8703.

UP TO $15,000.00 OF GUARANTEED LIFE INSURANCE! No medical exam or health questions. Cash to help pay funeral and other final expenses. Call Physicians Life Insurance Company866-212-1092 or visit www.Life55plus.info/beacon

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

PARKLAWN MEMORIAL PARK CEMETERY and Menorah Gardens. 1 burial plot (Veterans area-double space) selling for $13,000-OBO. Comes with 24x14 Bronze Memorial with vase & granite. Retail value $20,000. Phone 765-621-5258.

EXTRA LARGE SELF PROPELLED

LAWN MOWER. Excellent condition. Ten years old. $300.00. Call Joe-301-216-2541.

NATIONAL MEMORIAL PARK. Four choice sites in desirable Block I (eye). Regular $9,495, sale $4,495 per plot OBO. Phone 703-256-0560.

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

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

REAL ESTATE MADE EASY! Looking to buy or sell? KW Metro Center has you covered with expert guidance and local insights. Call or visit tauheedgul.kw.com for more info! Tauheed Gul (Tony) Real Estate Agent VA 0225263776. Cell 703.659.7366 Office 703.224.6000.

DISCOVER NORTH STAR NAVIGATORS: Your Trusted Partner in Elder Support Services. At North Star Navigators, we are dedicated to making a positive impact in the lives of our aging population. We understand the challenges that come with aging and are driven by a personal quest to enhance the well-being of seniors. Our telehealth services include: - Comprehensive Assessments & Recommendations - Golden Years PlanningHealthy Ship (Membership). Get Ready to Set Sail with North Star Navigators! Where YOU remain the Captain, and our Stars guide the way. Visit NorthStarNavigators.net or call 833-735-1983 for more information. Your Trusted Team: Anchored in Compassion, Driven by Passion.

I COME TO YOU AND HELP YOU reach your fitness goals. I have over 15 years of successful personal training experience. I offer 12, 24 and 36 session packages that save you a lot of money. Call 410-739-3318 today to set up a free fitness evaluation.

MOBILEHELP, America’s Premier Mobile Medical Alert System. Whether You’re Home or Away. For Safety and Peace of Mind. No Long Term Contracts! Free Brochure! Call Today! 1240-650-9189.

PORTABLE OXYGEN CONCENTRATOR

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

DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 400 plus procedures. Real dental insurance - NOT just a discount plan. Do not wait! Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details! 1-844366-1003 www.dental50plus.com/320 #6258

SLOWING DOWN AFTER 42 YEARS of contracting. Small to medium jobs mainly but will do some commercial work. Will work all over DC area. $45.00 from arrival on job. Andy 703-906-5429.

MOVING OR LIQUIDATING AN ESTATE? Let Downsizing Specialists, LLC show you how our easy process helps you decide what to keep, gift, sell, donate, or discard. Services include estate liquidation, downsizing, estate sales, house and storage unit clean-outs, and junk removal. We buy estates, vehicles, & real estate. Free estimates. Local. Family Owned. Licensed. Insured. Better Business Bureau A+ Certified Company. Call/Text Philip @ 301-2193600 ~ DownsizingSpecialists.com

LITTLE DEEDS ACCESSIBILITY SOLUTIONS Live independently and safely in your own home through Little modifications by licensed, skilled, and deeply caring craftspeople. Did you know we can convert your tub into a shower with a Tub-Cut for a quarter of the cost of those shower conversion companies? Little Deeds also provides no-cost, no-obligation, safety, and accessibility assessments for Aging in Place or when coming home from the hospital. Text/Call 410-450-4466 https://www.littledeeds.com/

THE BATHROOM OF YOUR DREAMS in as little as 1 day. Limited Time Offer - $1000 off or No Payments and No Interest for 18 months for customers who qualify. BCI Bath & Shower. Many options available. Quality materials & professional installation. Senior & Military Discounts Available. Call Today! 1-855-653-0087.

DON’T LET THE STAIRS LIMIT YOUR MOBILITY! Discover the ideal solution for anyone who struggles on the stairs, is concerned about a fall or wants to regain access to their entire home. Call AmeriGlide today! 1-866-365-5170.

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

AMERICAN RESIDENTIAL HEATING & COOLING. As temps outside start to climb, the season for savings is now. $49 cooling or heating system tune up. Save up to $2000 on a new heating and cooling system (restrictions apply.) FREE estimates. Many payment options available. Licensed and insured professionals. Call today 1-877-691-0273.

JACUZZI BATH REMODEL can install a new, custom bath or shower in as little as one day. For a limited time, waiving ALL installation costs! (Additional terms apply. Subject to change and vary by dealer. (Offer ends 6/30/25.) Call 1-833-994-0538.

ELIMINATE GUTTER CLEANING FOREVER! LeafFilter, the most advanced debrisblocking gutter protection. Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today. 20% off Entire Purchase. Plus 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-855-977-6078.

MENDING FAMILY RELATIONSHIPS. I’m

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

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

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

ALWAYS BUYING COMIC BOOKS (1930’s to 1985), sterling silver (anything), old coins & paper money, charm bracelets, jewelry, old costume jewelry, old dental gold, old pin-up magazines, sports cards before 1980, old fishing lures, old toy cars, and other old items. What do you have? Call or text Alex at 571-426-5363.

CASH FOR ESTATES; Estates, Moving, Downsizing, Etc. I buy Gold, Silver, Art, Quality Glass, Historical Items, Cultural Items, and a wide range of other categories. Collections, Accumulations. Website: TheAtticLLC.com, Gary Roman, 301-520-0755.

WILL BUY MILITARY, WWII, WWI, Civil War memorabilia items. Uniforms, weapons, helmets, photos, war souvenirs, medals, photos or any other items associated with U.S., German, Japanese or other military history. Call Dave (240-464-0958) or email (david.obal63@gmail.com).

BUYING ESTATES, FULL OR PARTIAL, large or small. Need a house cleared in a hurry, I can get it done. Also buying individual small, pretty things such as Herend, Royal Copenhagen and vintage holiday decorations. Call Susan (301) 785-1129.

CASH FOR JEWELRY: Buying jewelry, diamonds, gold, platinum, silver, watches, coins, flatware, etc. Ask for Tom. Call anytime, 301654-8678 (Reg. 883).

PAYING TOP CASH FOR ANTIQUES AND COLLECTIBLES. Housecalls made with prompt, courteous service seven days a week and 25 years of experience! Buying toys, trains, militaria, glassware, advertising merchandise, paper items and much more! Contact Mason or Megan at: 443-306-8816.

CASH FOR RECORDS, CDS AND DVDS. Best price guaranteed. Free appraisals. All types of music {33, 45, 78 & CDs.} Also buying turntables and stereo equipment. Will make house calls with CURBSIDE PICKUPS. Call or text Steve at 301-646-5403

BUYING VINYL RECORDS from 1950 to 1990 JAZZ, ROCK, BLUES, R&B, DISCO, SOUL, REGGAE, & GOSPEL, ANY VINYL FORMAT 33 1/3 RPM Albums, small 45 RPM’s & some 78 RPM, Also CD’s, Prefer LARGER COLLECTIONS AT LEAST 100 items, PLEASE CALL JOHN 301-596-6201.

BECOME A PUBLISHED AUTHOR. We want to Read Your Book! Dorrance PublishingTrusted by Authors Since 1920. Book manuscript submissions currently being reviewed. Comprehensive Services: Consultation, Production, Promotion and Distribution. Call for Your Free Author’s Guide 1-833-992-0110 or visit dorranceinfo.com/beacon CONSUMER CELLULAR - the same reliable, nationwide coverage as the largest carriers. No long-term contract, no hidden fees and activation is free. All plans feature unlimited talk and text, starting at just $20/month. For more information, call 1-833-742-1303.

WANTED OLD MOTORCYCLES Any condition “AS IS” picked up at your location. Paying Top Dollar for 1920-1980 Harley Kawasaki Z1 KZ900 H2 Honda CB750 BMW Indian BSA Norton & others. Call for CASH offer 1-800-2209683. Website: www.wantedoldmotorcycles.com

Caregivers

ANSWERS TO SCRABBLE

CAP THEY TUSKS

ORTH ROME IGOTO

BATINYOURBELFRY

AVE OAR EDIT

MESAS ADIEU EEE

ANTSINYOURPANTS

LEASED VETO

ABHORS ASIDES

TRIP SENSEA

TIGERINYOURTANK

ATH ELLES GETIN

SHIA TAI ONO

BEEINYOURBONNET

IRATE TRIB ACTS

TASER ALLY HEY

Answer: He proposed with a self-made Jumble, and she said yes after seeing all the — LOVE LETTERS ANSWERS TO JUMBLE

Jumbles: EVENT HOUSE THRIVE FILLET

HOW TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED AD

All classified ads must be submitted and paid for online, via our website, www.thebeaconnewspapers.com/classifieds

Deadlines and Payments: To appear in the next issue, your ad text and payment must be entered by the 5th of the preceding month (for Baltimore and Howard County editions); by the 20th (for Washington edition).

Cost will be based on the number of characters and spaces in your ad:

• $25 for 1-250 • $35 for 251-500. • $50 for 501-750 (maximum length). The website will calculate this amount for you.

Note: Maryland contractors must provide a valid MHIC number.

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

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

Clinical Health Study

Hearing Study

Classes/ Employment/ Events

Active Aging Expo/ Gaithersburg

Brooke Grove

Seminars/Classes

Federal Workers

Workshops

Leadership in Aging

Awards

Murder Mystery at Ring House

Virtual 50+ Employment

Expos

.6

Housing

Ashby Ponds/ Erickson

.10

.B4

.13

.18

.B5

.13

Funeral Services

Cremation Society of Maryland

.1, B11, B16

Brooke Grove Retirement Village

.B4, B10, B12

Cascades at Frederick . . .B2

Charles E. Smith Life Communities

Chevy Chase House

.B5

.B3, B11

Churchill Senior Living . . .7

Grandview, The/Erickson . . .B12, B16

Greenspring/ Erickson . . . .1, B10, B16

Falcons Landing . . .B7, B12

Hill House at Beechfield

.B6

Homecrest House . .B6, B13

Housing Initiative

Partnership

Park View

Bladensburg

.15

Going Home Cremation . .9

MacNabb Funeral

Home

.B15

.B14

Park View Columbia . . .B14

Park View Emerson

Park View Laurel .

.15

Home Health/ Adult Day Care

Best Senior Care

.B8

JCA Kensington Clubs . .10

.B14

.B14

Riderwood/ Erickson . . . .1, B11, B16

Ring House

The Sylvestery at Vinson Hall .

Willow Manor at Cabin Branch .

.B8

Woodleigh Chase/ Erickson . . . . . .B13, B16

Legal Services

Farr Law Firm . . . . . . . . .15

Law Offices of Paul Riekhof

.21

Medical/Health/ Insurance Chesapeake Hearing

Surgery Center

Real Estate Services/Moving

.B5

. .B2, B10

I’m a Seniors Real Estate Specialist® who is steeped in knowledge and experience. My unique marketing and master negotiating skills are wrapped up in kindness, honesty, and protective care. I guide you in how to sell for top dollar while supporting you with the very best resources. Whether you want to remain in your home, or move to a retirement community, I am the Realtor® you want to call.

For your free copy of my “Rightsizing Guide” or my “Senior Living Guide,” download them from the “Resources” section of EricStewartGroup.com or call me directly at (301) 252-1697 for a personal consultation on your real estate needs.