How to use credit and debit cards abroad
If you’re heading outside the United States, you will have to cope with foreign exchange. And despite all those stories you see about currency “secrets,” what you need to know is really pretty simple. Overall, your best bet is to use plastic as much as possible: credit cards for big-ticket purchases, debit cards for local cash. When you use a credit card outside the U.S., the... READ MORE
Three immune-boosting myths busted
It’s that time of year when any sniffle, cough or sneeze is noticed — and if it didn’t come from you, chances are you’re subtly putting a little space between you and whoever it came from.There’s no better time than the present to talk about immune-boosting myths — from colds to allergies. Read on so that you’re not duped by these three myths about... READ MORE
Claim all the tax breaks you’re entitled to
Donald Trump’s acknowledgement last fall that he had not paid federal income tax in years left some questioning why they should have to pay taxes.“I think you pay taxes because it’s the right thing to do,” National Taxpayer Advocate Nina Olson said.But that doesn’t mean you don’t take tax benefits to which you’re entitled.“It’s easy to... READ MORE
Sykesville couple design an artistic life
Julie and Ken Girardini are married not only to each other, but to their art as well. The husband and wife design team have been creating contemporary metalwork pieces since 1990, working out of a studio on their 3½ -acre property in Sykesville.The Girardinis met when both were living in Colorado. They’ve been married for 30 years, and designing and crafting together for... READ MORE
Shall we dance? Absolutely!
Christine and Lee Gedansky began ballroom dancing lessons in 1991 in preparation for their wedding. Unlike most couples, though, they never stopped dancing.In 2002, they decided to establish their own dance studio, Beginning Ballroom, “to bring real dancing to real people,” said Lee, who will soon turn 50.Throughout their marriage, the Gedanskys have continued dancing, taking... READ MORE
These supplements support brain health
Smart lifestyle practices — including healthy eating, exercise, good sleep, and continual learning — help keep your brain in top form. Certain supplements also may help bolster brain function.Although more research is needed, the following supplements may help. Consult your doctor prior to use.Ginkgo biloba extractThis supplement has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, ... READ MORE
Tips from the pros on how to lose weight
A food behavior researcher has tested a bunch of little ways to tip the scale toward success. His advice: Put it on autopilot. Make small changes in the kitchen, at the grocery store, and in restaurants to help you make good choices without thinking.“As much as we all want to believe that we’re master and commander of all our food decisions, that’s just not true for most... READ MORE
Studying a new way to stop arthritis pain
As many arthritis sufferers know, the loss of cartilage that coats the ends of our bones can cause excruciating joint pain.Many patients turn to pain medication, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like Motrin and Celebrex. Unfortunately, NSAIDs can contribute to renal failure and gastrointestinal bleeding.Some try injections that help lubricate the joint, which help ... READ MORE
Nominations sought for volunteer awards
Montgomery County’s Montgomery Serves Awards Ceremony will take place on Monday, April 24 at Imagination Stage in Bethesda, Md. The annual event will honor some of Montgomery County’s most outstanding community leaders and dedicated volunteers.“Montgomery County is the very special place it is today in large part because many extraordinary public citizens work every day to ... READ MORE
Stoppard at Studio: intellectual acrobatics
A 30-ish male tutor and his 22-year-old female student at an English university are debating the prosaically labeled “hard problem,” which concerns how biological brain tissue creates complex feelings, thought and action.Of course, it’s obvious they’re lovers, too. He’s all ego, much less id. She’s a believer that absolute morality is the innate quality... READ MORE
