Northeast Ohio Boomer & Beyond | November December 2019

Boomer Northeast Ohio

and Beyond

BETTER LIVING AFTER 50

Q UIRKY LEVELAND C

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019

How “A Christmas Story” Became More Than a Movie

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FREE

Offbeat Holiday Outings

NortheastOhioBoomer.com

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Meet NEO’s Givers/Local Foodie Favorites Preserving Pictures for the Next Generation

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INSIDE

Nov/Dec 22

Holidays at Home Offbeat, Odd & Only Here

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Word Perfect Books to Give, Books to Keep

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Grammy on the Go Making Memories with the Grandkids

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Yum! Tasty Hometown Gifts

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Our Volunteer Salute Meet Northeast Ohio’s Givers

DEPA RTMENTS 8

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WORTH NOTING

FOOD

LEGAL

BRAIN GAMES

Super Stan Hywet and a Pet Cause

Canned Isn’t Bad but Fresh is Best

Give with Your Heart and Your Head

How are You with Numbers?

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POP CULTURE

Baffle ’em with Boomer-Speak

My Candy Crush Christmas Rush

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’m still finding Halloween candy wrappers in our leaf piles and we’re not sure who’s bringing what to which Thanksgiving dinner. So why do I feel that I’m already playing Christmas catch-up?

Some years are like that.

This is gearing up to be one of them. There’s plenty of blame to go around: the Hallmark Channel’s Christmas movies started October 26. Holiday recipes and wreaths have been popping up on my Pinterest pages for months. Favorite online stores are flooding my Facebook page with holiday discounts and must-have gifts. If I was better at Instagram, I’d probably feel the pressure there, too.

Christmas has prematurely bulldozed its way into our calendars like an oversized toddler begging for attention. I remember what it was like raising toddlers 25 years ago, and I’m taking the same approach with Christmas. I’m giving it a time out, taking a deep breath, and walking away for a bit.

Don’t get me wrong, I get pulled into the holiday frenzy as much as anyone.

I’m burning a Winter Fir candle as I write this (trust me, it’s much more pleasant than Santa’s Pipe.) And I’ve started a gift list. But like last year, I’m going to choose holiday activities that have meaning to me.

I’ll hit a couple of church concerts and maybe a holiday tour. I like checking out over-the-top Christmas light displays. I may try baking baklava again this year, and I’ll make time for lunch with friends and maybe a spurof-the-moment potluck dinner.

What I don’t have time for is the pressure of holiday perfection: the perfect gift, the perfect meal, the perfect family gathering. I’m relying on Amazon for gifts and skipping

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Boomer Northeast Ohio

EDITOR´S NOTE

mall crowds. I’m starting to like Dad’s wobbly Christmas tree and tag sale ornaments he chose himself. If a few faces are missing at the holiday table this year, we’ll catch up later and enjoy the ones who are here.

I’ll watch Hallmark Christmas movies with my husband (who knows all of them by heart) but I’m not competing with their snowy fantasy world. Chances are, when our final snowfall turns to slush, I’ll still be finding Reese’s wrappers in the yard.

You never see that on the Hallmark Channel.

Enough of too-good-tobe-true fantasies. We have plenty of real holiday cheer to enjoy right here in Northeast Ohio. Take a look at our story about offbeat holiday outings on Page 22 and consider one or two.

Northeast Ohio has lots of events from now into the new year. Why not try something different to mix up your holiday routine? Our events listings in the back of the magazine have winter hikes, lectures and other interesting ways to spend a chilly day.

This issue also offers our salute to Northeast Ohio’s givers, the volunteers who use their time and talent to help others. Their gifts are a wonderful example of holiday giving in its purest form. Their service is inspiring; read about them starting on Page 26.

Happy holidays! We’ll catch up in the new year with more all-local stories to help you enjoy your best life in the best place we know.

and Beyond

VOL. 5, ISSUE 5

Nov/Dec 2019 Northeast Ohio Boomer and Beyond is a property of Mitchell Media LLC

PO Box 1088 Hudson, OH 44236 330-822-4011 NortheastOhioBoomer.com /NEOhio​Boomer

​/​NEOhio​Boomer​

PUBLISHER - Brad Mitchell brad@northeastohio​boomer.com 330-714-7712 EDITOR​- M​arie Elium​ ​marie@northeastohio​boomer.com COPY EDITOR/DIGITAL/ ASSISTANT EDITOR​ - Estelle Rodis-Brown estelle@northeastohio​boomer.com EDITORIAL SUGGESTIONS editor@​​northeastohio​boomer.com CALENDAR LISTING SUBMISSIONS calendar@​​northeastohio​boomer.com CONTRIBUTORS Sue Botos, Dr. Reuben Gobezie, Kathryn Kilpatrick, Dr. Steve Marsh, Margaret Briller, Dr. Reuben Gobezie, Kathryn Kilpatrick, Mike Olszewski, Estelle Rodis-Brown, Tak Sato, John Selick, Karen Shadrach, Laurie G. Steiner and Paris Wolfe ART DIRECTOR- Laura Chadwick laura@northeastohio​boomer​.com ADVERTISING SALES Chris Geer, 330-614-8471 chris@northeastohio​boomer.com Janyse Heidy, 330-671-3886 janyse@northeastohio​boomer.com Sherrie Kantarovich, 216-299-5455 sherriek@northeastohio​boomer.com Samantha Olp, 330-636-6127 sam@northeastohio​boomer.com Yvonne Pelino, 440-971-0595 yvonne@northeastohio​boomer.com Michelle Vacha, 440-463-0146 michelle@northeastohio​boomer.com OFFICE MANAGER Kathleen Mitchell, 440-533-1208 kathleen@northeastohio​boomer.com EVENT MANAGER​ Tara Tonsetic tara@northeastohioboomer.com DISTRIBUTION INQUIRIES info@northeastohio​boomer.com

M​arie Elium​

​marie@northeastohio​boomer.com

PUBLISHERS OF

Boomer Northeast Ohio

BOOMER EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD Mindi Axner Executive Director National Council of Jewish Women/Cleveland

and Beyond

Coming in theJanuary/February Issue January 16 • Rut Busters • Can't-Miss Museum Exhibits • Don't Drive? No Problem

Sharon Dundee Director of Marketing & Communications Cleveland Hearing & Speech Center Kathy M. Hirko Owner KAZ Company Jeanne Hoban Marketing Communications Director Benjamin Rose Institute Kathryn Kilpatrick President Memory Fitness Matters, LLC Susan Lieberman Director of Marketing & Public Relations Montefiore and The Weils Kelsey Loushin President Eldercare Professionals of Ohio Stephanie Manning The American Heart Association, Cleveland Steven Marsh Dr. Steve Marsh, DDS Fatima Perkins Director of Community Outreach Western Reserve Area Agency on Aging Bob Pontius Director of External Relations Danbury Senior Living Leslie Royce Resnik President Royce Public Relations Laurie G. Steiner Partner, Solomon, Steiner & Peck, Ltd. Candyce Traci Vice President All Media Design Group Nancy Udelson President and CEO Alzheimer’s Association Cleveland Area Chapter

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WORTH NOTING

Deck the Hall It’s Super, Man

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PHOTO: STAN HYWET HALL AND GARDENS

Stan Hywet’s

kron’s Stan Hywet has a million reasons to see its annual Deck the Hall holiday extravaganza.

That’s how many lights they’ve strung throughout the sprawling grounds for a jaw-dropping display that will lead visitors through arbors, stone walkways and garden paths. And did we mention they’ve got superheroes, too?

Outdoors you’ll see a light show set to music, a huge Christmas tree and a giant interactive snow globe in the popular Gingerbread Land. The good guys are inside 19 decorated rooms that each showcase a classic comic hero.

Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, visitors will discover how those and other comic favorites are incorporated in the holiday designs with elaborate trees, garlands and other Christmas touches. Who would have guessed that Ninja Turtles and Spiderman would find a holiday home in a Tudor mansion?

See for yourself. Deck the Hall is open from 5 p.m.-8 p.m. Nov. 29-30 and Dec. 1, and from 5 p.m.-8 p.m. Dec. 12-23, and Dec. 26-30.

Tickets are available in advance at stanhywet.org, by phone at 330-3153287, or when you arrive. Tickets include a self-guided tour of the Manor House and grounds.

Strong Women, Powerful Voices

NCJW/Cleveland Celebrates 125 Years

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he National Council of Jewish Women/Cleveland is about halfway through its 125th anniversary year, and what a busy few months it’s been.

The group has a new website (ncjwcleveland.org), logo and tagline (Strong Women, Powerful Voices). NCJW/CLE will continue into 2020 with a continued emphasis on social justice and increased synagogue engagement. A gala is planned for April.

NCJW/CLE has 2,000 members. It was founded by Rabbi Moses Gries in 1894 to help resettle Jewish immigrants.

Michele Kaminsky will become the organization’s new president in July. Elaine Geller is the current president.

Kaminsky says, “Everything is doable with the right team. The first step is to show up. With the strong women at NCJW, that is our attitude, our modus operandi, and that is how we get results.

We persist. As our tagline states: Strong Women. Powerful Voices.”

“The divisiveness in today’s world demands that we bring new voices to the causes that matter and that we need to collaborate with like-minded groups. I want to bring young women, parents of young children, teenagers and college-agers to NCJW to give voice to their concerns because we, as Jews, are dedicated to tikkun olam/repairing the world,” Kaminsky says.

“I aim to grow our organization with young voices and tackle the new issues in collaborative ways because numbers and voices matter.”

Home for the Holidays How are Your Folks Doing?

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he holidays give many of us the chance to visit older loved ones; it’s also a good opportunity to see how they’re managing on their own.

We get it; no one wants to play Nancy Drew during a trip back home, but it’s not a bad idea to keep your eyes open for signs that loved ones are struggling with daily tasks. Consider these tips from caring.com:

• A hug tells a lot: weight change, frailty, poor hygiene.

• Is there food in the refrigerator? Is it fresh?

Is the bathroom clean?

Check out the laundry room. Is the house filthy?

• Talk to neighbors and friends. Do they mention any changes in your loved one’s habits?

• Are they forgetful?

Is it noticeably worse than your last visit?

• Are pets cared for?

• Are there piles of unopened mail?

• Go for a drive with your loved one. How’d they do? Are there dings and scratches on the car?

A tactful and loving conversation can go a long way toward keeping your older loved one safe in their own home.

A Good Cause, Doggone It Help for Pets & the People Who Love Them

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ne World Health is an under-the-radar local nonprofit with a big goal: to help low-income older adults and the disabled pay for their pets’ veterinary care.

Donations are used to purchase vouchers for participating veterinary clinics.

Last year, 150 households received vouchers for essential veterinary care. The organization was founded by veterinarian Anna M. Van Heeckeren, who wanted to help keep low-income older adults and their pets together and healthy.

To donate, go to OneHealth.org, call 216-920-3015 or send a check to One Health Organization, 27600 Chagrin Blvd, Ste. 400, Cleveland, 44122.

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WORTH NOTING

B OOK SHEL F

Who doesn’t like getting a book for the holidays? Below are a handful of gift-worthy books (all published in 2019) selected by the librarians of the Akron-Summit County Public Library’s Collection Development Department.

The Art of Looking Up

By Catherine McCormack

Critics and reviewers alike are calling this book a visual feast that is desirable as an art book and as a challenge to seek out art in unusual places. Forty spectacular ceilings are featured in this unusually dazzling book. Art historian Catherine McCormack guides readers through the stories behind the artwork depicted in this beautiful book of hypnotic ceilings from around the globe.

Remarkable locations, great artists and glorious color photography make this book a great gift!

For the Love of Books: Designing and Curating a Home Library

By Thatcher Wine and Elizabeth Lane

A book about books – what could be better? Learn from the curation and design experts at Juniper Books and see your bookshelves in a whole new light. Explore the history of books and private libraries and celebrate the resilience of print books in the digital era. Marvel at the photographs and be inspired.

Useful tips and illustrations will help you create and curate your own home library, whatever the size. A wonderful gift for the bibliophiles among us.

Classic Restaurants of Summit County

By Sharon Moreland Myers

Akron and Summit County’s classic hot spots have satisfied palates since the early 20th Century. Akron alone could sit up to 30,000 people at once during the golden age of the ‘50s and ‘60s. Marcel’s made a name for itself with its scampi, and Iacomini’s became synonymous with lobster. Ladd’s dished up crowd-pleasing coney dogs, and Yanko’s sliced up its mouthwatering shish kabobs. Digging up vintage images and recipes, author Sharon Myers leads readers on a delectable trip down memory lane to the area’s most renowned and cherished eateries.

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How to Cook Everything — Completely Revised 20h Anniversary Edition: Simple Recipes for Great Food

By Mark Bittman

For 20 years, Mark Bittman’s “How to Cook Everything” has been the definitive guide to simple home cooking. This new edition has been completely revised for today’s cooks while retaining Bittman’s trademark minimalist style-easy-to-follow recipes and variations and tons of ideas and inspiration.

Inside, you’ll find hundreds of brand-new features, recipes and variations, like Slow-Simmered Beef Chili, My New Favorite Fried Chicken, and Eggs Poached in Tomato Sauce, plus old favorites from the previous editions.

Wanderlust: A Traveler’s Guide to the Globe

By Moon Travel Guides

Dream, discover and uncover your next great adventure. Filled with natural wonders, dazzling celebrations, quirky festivals, unbelievable road trips, bucketlist sites, epic outdoor adventures and cultural treasures, this stunning, hardcover book is packed with full-color photos, charming illustrations and fascinating overviews of each destination, making it the perfect gift for dreamers and adventurers alike.

Letters from Hollywood: Inside the Private World of Classic American Moviemaking

By Rocky Lang and Barbara Hall with a foreword

by Peter Bogdanovich

For hard-core fans of classic Hollywood, this is the perfect gift. Drawing on memos, letters, telegrams, rare notes and personal papers of some of the most notable talents in the film industry, this book spans the silent era to the pre-email days of the 1970s. Each page, beautifully designed, gives a glimpse into the fascinating world of movie stars, directors, screenwriters and producers. Contributions include Greta Garbo, Alfred Hitchcock, Humphrey Bogart, Frank Sinatra, Katharine Hepburn, Marlon Brando, Elia Kazan, Cary Grant, Francis Ford Coppola, Tom Hanks and Jane Fonda.

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FOOD

Holiday Cranberries Tart, Healthy and Yes, Sometimes Canned

By John Selick

any people say this is their favorite time of year. The weather gets cooler, the trees change from greens to autumn hues, then winter bareness. It’s also the return of pumpkin spice; coffee, muffins, candles… pumpkin spice everything. And it’s the time to celebrate with our families around the dinner table, a feast of warm and savory seasonal foods.

There’s an ingredient that you can add to your menu that will inject zip to your recipes, and I’m not talking about pumpkin spice. Cranberries can brighten every part of your holiday menu.

Cranberries come in several forms; they’re readily available and easy to use.

A BERRY GOOD ADDITION You may already enjoy cranberry juice on a regular basis; it’s also a refreshing ingredient for holiday cocktails. Dried cranberries are available year-round.

They are a healthy snack, often found in the betterquality trail mixes. They also make a nice addition to a salad, especially with toasted nuts and blue cheese.

Fresh cranberries are too tart to be eaten on their own. Cooking them with something sweet like sugar or maple syrup helps balance the tartness.

A homemade cranberry sauce can be a great addition to your Thanksgiving menu. Making it with fresh ginger and orange juice creates a condiment that goes well with turkey and stuffing but here’s a tip about homemade cranberry sauce that most people don’t realize: it’s even better on pumpkin pie. Topping your pie with whipped cream and homemade cranberry relish makes an often ho-hum dessert extra special.

CANNED IS OKAY, TOO Store-bought canned cranberry jelly is usually served in a perfect cylinder with imprinted ribbed lines from the can still intact. There’s a very good chance you know someone who loves this stuff; my father-in-law certainly does. I make a blowout Thanksgiving feast with homemade everything.

Even the cream of mushroom soup for the green bean casserole is homemade, but someone still sneaks in canned cranberry sauce for the family patriarch.

At first, I was a little insulted, but I felt better when he had a serving of the homemade sauce along with the magical canned stuff. Hey, you like what you like. I guess I’m not really a cranberry snob. I actually like the canned stuff as a secret ingredient in braised red cabbage.

Even though cranberries are full of vitamin C and have antioxidant qualities, hopefully, you’re cooking with them because they’re delicious. They’re more than just a superfood. They’re a super ingredient that can add a lot of pizzazz to your holiday menu on everything from the drink menu to the salad course and all the way to desserts.

John Selick is the senior culinary manager at Sodexo Healthcare Services for University Hospitals in Cleveland.

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LEGAL

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Charitable Donations

he holidays are Those websites also prime time for have links to organizations charity donations. like Charity Navigator, But be careful! Each year, Charity Watch and Guide crooks use clever scams Star. These provide to cheat people and valuable information steal millions of dollars. about the charities, In May, the Federal including how much is Trade Commission spent on the charitable Give with Your Heart & Head activity versus payroll (FTC) filed a lawsuit

By Laurie G. Steiner against the Cancer and other expenses.

Fund of America, the Another place to try Children’s Cancer Fund of America is the Better Business Bureau Wise Giving and the Breast Cancer Society. These Alliance (give.org). The BBB has developed charities have been around for years a 20-point rating system of thousands of and raise over $200 million. However, charities that can give you background on the FTC says a paltry 3 percent of the these charities and see if they satisfy the charities’ donations were spent on BBB’s standards. cancer patients.

The trouble is when we get a Get it in Writing. A legitimate solicitation phone call from an charity will send you information about organization like the Children’s Cancer the charity in the mail.

Fund of America, it sounds so legitimate, people just write a check and mail it in.

Ask Who's Calling. Ask whether the Sometimes, the scam is closer to caller is a fundraiser or a volunteer home. A few years ago, a 13-year-old and ask what percentage of the money girl, along with an older gentleman, raised goes to the charity. Some asked local business owners to charities have professional fundraisers contribute to a Muscular Dystrophy that wind up with 70 percent or more of Association bike ride. In exchange, they the contributions. You may decide that were promised discounted Cedar Point you want to give to the charity but not season passes. It was all a lie. The two through the phone solicitation. pocketed the cash.

2.

3.

GIVER BEWARE The FTC and Ohio Attorney General websites list dozens of scams related to charitable donations. So what should you do if you want to contribute to a charity? Do your homework. Here are five tips to make sure your money goes to a charity that will use your donation the way YOU want it to be used:

1. Research the Charity. If you are

not familiar with the charity, you can learn about them and current scams at consumer.ftc.gov and look under the link for charity scams. In Ohio, go to the attorney general’s website, ohioattorneygeneral.gov, and look for the charity registration link.

4. Don’t Provide Credit Card or Bank Information. Don’t share financial

information until you’ve checked out the charity. Don’t give cash; checks are better, made payable to the organization, not an individual.

5. Consider Designating a Specific

Disaster or Fund. This ensures your

money is going to a specific disaster or for a purpose you support, not the general fund.

The old phrase, “no good deed goes unpunished” sometimes is true. Don’t give away your money for a good reason to the wrong person. Take the time to make sure your hard-earned money goes to a real charity and not some scammer’s back pocket.

*Laurie G. Steiner is a member of the law firm of Solomon, Steiner & Peck, Ltd. She is a Certified Elder Law Attorney by the National Elder Law Foundation and the Ohio State Bar Association and an accredited attorney for the preparation, presentation and prosecution of claims for veterans benefits before the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Laurie has also been named as a Super Lawyer for 2019. She practices in the areas of Elder Law, Medicaid, VA and Disability Planning, and Estate and Trust Planning and Administration.

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Museum PROFILES

10825 East Boulevard, Cleveland, OH 44106 @clestartshere

216-721-5722 wrhs.org

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”

”

“We took the grandchildren there today for their first visit and they both loved it! Everything from the cars to the costume wing was such an incredible experience for all of us. They even loved the historic mansions! We finished with a ride on the Euclid Beach Grand Carousel and we all already can’t wait to go back!”

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xperience Cleveland like never before at the Cleveland History Center in University Circle. Through the use of its vast and varied collections covering family history, community history, entrepreneurship and innovation, Cleveland History Center provides the public with a much-needed sense of place in today’s mobile society.

Each document and artifact tells a story that personally engages guests of all ages — these stories come to life.

Immerse yourself in the extensive collections and interactive exhibits. Ride on the restored Euclid Beach Park Grand Carousel, stroll through two beautiful historic mansions, experience the evolution of the automobile in the Crawford Auto-Aviation Museum, travel through time in the Chisholm Halle Costume Wing and get your hands on history in the Kidzibits Playzone.

Cleveland Starts Here®. Cleveland Starts with You!

Grand Northeast Ohio

Supplement to

Boomer Northeast Ohio

and Beyond

Elves & Bells • Photos for the Future Sparkles, Lights & Other Christmassy Things to See November/December 2019

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Picture Perfect

Preserving Photos From One Generation to the Next

By Paris Wolfe

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hen Cheney Baltz’s grandmother passed away in the 1990s, Baltz of Mayfield Heights inherited a half dozen photo albums dating back to the mid-1800s. Decades later, the photographs that were mounted to fibrous black paper were falling out of the books. Pictures edges were browning, images faded.

Family history was, in many ways, disintegrating. Baltz didn’t want that to happen. “I love seeing the old pictures.

The people. The old clothing. The old cars,” she says. “I like seeing some of the antiques that were passed down to me. In the pictures, I can see how they were displayed in my great-grandmother’s house.”

Keeping family photographs— those you inherit and the ones you take today of grandkids— deserve to be protected for future generations. That’s why Baltz hired a certified photo organizer.

Lisa Griffis, owner of Rescue Your Photos in Lakewood, worked with Baltz to create a digital archive of her family’s visual history. Digital copies, when stored properly and in duplicate, are safe from fires, floods and other disasters. And these files can easily be shared.

Together, Baltz and Griffis identified the important photos to preserve, labeled the people within, scanned and organized them into digital files by topic. To preserve these files, they were backed up onto a cloud service and stored on two hard drives, kept in separate locations.

“The nice thing about working with Lisa is she has a distance from my personal history,” says Baltz.

“She didn’t get caught up, looking at all the family members and reminiscing. She made me stick to a plan and keep going.”

WHAT DO YOUR PHOTOS SAY? Griffis has both professional and personal experience building photo stories. She has a master’s degree in visual communication and 30 years of experience photo editing and designing at several major newspapers and magazines. She is reducing her own family’s collection of visual material — photos and memorabilia — from 60 boxes to six manageable archival bins.

“Everybody has a story and should tell, or at least preserve, their family’s visual history,” says Griffis. “It’s a commitment to get it done. And there are reasons why people haven’t done it.

That’s what I love to do; tell stories with photos.”

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Better Living After 50

It all starts with sorting. “Most people can eliminate 75 to 80 percent of their photos,” she says. To get started, they can: • Eliminate duplicates •G et rid of severely damaged photos •P itch bad, out-of-focus or blurry images • Toss bad memories • Stop saving generic landscapes •R econsider keeping images of unidentifiable people Try the two-second rule. Griffis says, “Take only two seconds to decide what pile the photo should go into.”

With a core collection in hand, the next step is to develop a system of organization that works for the person. Baltz’s photos are organized by themes such as travel, family members and holidays/celebrations.

Others may choose chronology, events and more.

With the best remaining photos, Griffis used a variety of scanners to capture images without pulling apart any albums. The client identifies the people in a photo. Then, the labeled photo is digitally archived. Printed photos and other media deemed essential are collected in safe, archival boxes for storage.

“I feel like a weight has been lifted,” Baltz says. “The project had been nagging me for a long time. Now I’d like to get Lisa to put together some photo books because she’s a great designer. She can look at the pieces and make sense of it. If you just take it in little chunks at a time, this is very doable. I feel so much better, now that it’s finally finished. Now I can share with my brothers, my kids, my nieces and nephews.”

Paris Wolfe is a digital scrapbook junkie who is woefully behind organizing her family photos.

Magical Christmas Outings First Stop: The North Pole

By Karen Shadrach

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PHOTOS BY KAREN SHADRACH

he holiday season offers so many choices for places to go and things to do with our grandkids.

My favorites — and two that are definitely memory makers — include the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad (CVSR) Polar Express train ride and the Country Lights Festival at Lake Farmpark. Both of these will transport you back to your childhood and you will enjoy the magic and wonder in your grandchild’s eyes.

ELVES & BELLS The Polar Express boards at either the Akron Northside Station or the Rockside Station in Independence.

It’s approximately a two-hour train ride, available between November 8 and December 21. Let the kids wear their Christmas jammies and enjoy the railroad journey to the North Pole. Santa’s elves wander about the decorated train cars, singing and serving hot chocolate and cookies.

Santa himself will make an appearance on the trip back home.

To make this evening even more special, try to watch the Polar Express movie or read the book a week or so before you leave. We enjoy taking the grandkids out for a quick dinner before heading to the station.

The Country Lights Lake Farmpark or CVSR, Festival offers wagon rides they open up ticket around the property to sales before offering see all the beautiful lights them to the public. and to transport people to Lake Farmpark gives other areas of the farm for advantage to those who participation in the many live in Lake County and Top: Christmas lights different activities. Our will also extend to their and grandkids, a perfect children’s favorite experience is to fit. Bottom: Kids love members the same early go to Santa’s workshop where painting toys in Santa’s time frame. workshop. they can make a toy with one One more venue I would of Santa’s elves. Yes! They can like to discuss is the GLOW choose from over 30 different wooden exhibit at Cleveland Botanical Gardens; toys and an elf will help them make it by another excellent adventure for both hammering, screwing and gluing, step grandparents and their grandkids. by step. When finished, they can then This beautifully decorated garden use paint and glitter to complete their houses many holiday trees, miniature masterpiece. Leave the toy to dry on one trains and rooms of gingerbread of the many toy shelves while you enjoy houses. I was surprised by how much the other activities and pick it up before time the kids took to look at all the you go home. details of those houses, all made with It is best to secure tickets as soon as candies and icing. You can also walk possible. With young grandkids, I like to through the warm Costa Rica rainforest get the earliest time periods available. area in The Glasshouse; it feels so good This way, you can make your special toy on a cold winter day. and see everything before the crowds There is also an outdoor train ride in arrive and you can depart before it gets the evenings that takes you around the late and kids become too tired.

Hershey’s children’s garden, all lit up with Christmas lights. We have gone in HOT TICKETS the early evening and had a break to eat I have had friends tell me that they have dinner in their café. You can purchase had to wait for years before they were something to eat or bring your own food. lucky enough to obtain tickets to these We did both! The children loved their events. However, if you are a member of gingerbread man cookies for dessert.

Karen Shadrach is an on-the-go, in-the-know NEO grandmother of two sets of twins.

The boys, Jefferson and Tyler are 4, the girls, Abigail and Brianna, are 2. Do you have grandparenting questions about where to go and what to do when you get there? Email Karen at editor@northeastohioboomer.com.

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Fun with the Grandkids

ONGOING BEGINNING 12/6 The Rink at Wade Oval. Lace up your skates and enjoy the fresh ice on picturesque Wade Oval.

10820 East Blvd., Cleveland, universitycircle.org. $2-5 THROUGH 12/30 Deck the Hall 2019: A Classic Comic Hero Christmas. Nineteen rooms in the Manor House are themed with the stories of classic comic heroes, including Wonder Woman, Black Panther, Superman, original Avengers, Batman and more. Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, 714 N. Portage Path, Akron, 330-836-5533, stanhywet.org. $9.50-$19 Curiosity Carnival. Ladies and gentlemen, children of all ages, step right up for a special exhibition like no other, featuring amazing feats of science! All the sights and sounds of the carnival, from the spectacles to the midway games, are based on science. 601 Erieside Ave., Cleveland, 216-694-2000, greatscience.com TUESDAYS Music & Theater Discovery.

Learn about rhythm, solfège, and more as you sing, explore instruments and make music together. 2 p.m. Children’s Museum Cleveland, 3813 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, cmcleveland.org.

FREE-$12 DAY BY DAY 11/22-1/5 Wild Winter Lights. Featuring more than a dozen diverse and interactive zones, including Snow Safari, Glacier Glade and Santa’s North Pole Lodge.

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, 3900 Wildlife Way, 216-635-3391, clevelandmetroparks.com/zoo. $15.50-18.50 11/29-12/23 Country Lights. Live lighted trees deck the halls that lead to Santa’s Workshop and the Little Elf Corner. Take a wagon to see operating model trains, farm animals and horses. 4:45-9 p.m.

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Lake Metroparks Farmpark, 8800 Euclid Chardon Rd., Kirtland, 440256-2122, lakemetroparks.com 11/29-12/30 Wild Lights. Enjoy the wildest lighting display this holiday season.

Nearly the entire zoo is decorated and several animals will be out. Akron Zoo, 505 Euclid Ave., Akron, 330-3752550, akronzoo.org 11/30 Elf Labs. A fun and fanciful experience just for kids. A team of exuberant elves will escort your children through five unique stations where they will experience the magic of Christmas. Castle Noel, 260 S. Court St., Medina, castlenoel.com 12/13 The Grandparent Connection.

Winter is a great time to explore nature with your grandchild. Program includes specially designed activities, hike, story, craft and snack. 10-11 a.m. Children’s Schoolhouse Nature Park, 9045 Baldwin Rd., Kirtland Hills, lakemetroparks.com. $5 12/14 Ho Ho Ho Hiking with Santa & Buddy the Elf. Discover the wonders of the season on a magical hike with Santa Claus and Buddy the Elf. 2:30-4 p.m. The West Woods, 9465 Kinsman Rd., Russell, 440-286-9516, geaugaparkdistrict.org. FREE Chickadee-Feeding Campfire.

Discover the fun of feeding blackcapped chickadees and discover the fascinating features of this tiny, feathered friend. 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

F. A. Seiberling Nature Realm, 1828 Smith Rd., Akron, 330-865-8065, summitmetroparks.org. FREE 12/15 Kid’s Shopping Afternoon & Polar Express Pajama Party Movie. Bring your little ones in to pick out special gifts for the family. Cocoa, cookies & free gift wrapping from 1-3 p.m. then from 3-5 p.m. cozy up for a movie.

BAYarts, 28795 Lake Road, Bay Village, bayarts.net 12/22 Family Adventures in Space. Take a trip that’s completely out of this world! Traveling through space, you’ll visit different objects in the solar system, explore constellations in the night sky and learn about NASA’s missions. 11:30 a.m. Lake Erie Nature & Science Center, 28728 Wolf Road, Bay Village, 440-871-2900, lensc.org November/December 2019

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HEALTH

Restoring Smiles

W

ith Halloween now in our rear-view mirror and with the New Year approaching, it’s a good time to give thanks for what nature has given us. Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on the people and gifts we hold close.

So how do our teeth and smile fit into this? It remains remarkable to me, even after practicing dentistry for 42 years, that our first set of teeth — our baby teeth — “magically” appear when we are quite young. With a tiny jaw and facial bones, 20 small teeth appear in a sequence that allows children to chew their food, breathe and sleep normally.

HEALTHY DEVELOPMENT As a child grows older, the permanent teeth begin to come in at age 6 or so, also sequentially, including the first permanent molars and lower and upper incisors. They erupt underneath the baby teeth, and as they erupt, they resorb the roots of

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GIVING NATURE A HAND

By Dr. Steve Marsh

these primary teeth, enough so that when there is little root left, the baby tooth falls out.

Eventually, 32 teeth, including four wisdom teeth, take the place of the 20 baby teeth. With the growth of the bones of the face, including the lower and upper jaws, these larger adult teeth manage to fill the spaces adequately, so that the teenager and adult can eat well and smile confidently.

Unfortunately, there are occasions when this pattern is disrupted.

Sometimes the upper lateral teeth are missing or malformed, and this can also apply to wisdom teeth (third molars) as well as other teeth. That’s when the skills of a restorative dentist and/or orthodontist come into play.

When this happens, I will often use bonding or porcelain veneers, crowns, implants and bridges to restore a smile or replace missing teeth. With today’s materials and techniques, we try and duplicate nature’s abilities to make the restorations as lifelike and beautiful as possible.

The experience, skill and artistry of the dentist and lab technician play a huge role in the success of this treatment.

Here at ClevelandSmiles, I am thankful to work with a team that averages over 30 years per person of dental skill and knowledge. Having witnessed those situations where the development of the oral cavity was slightly amiss, we are able to help nature out. It’s our way of giving thanks and giving back.

Dr. Steve Marsh focuses on cosmetic dental procedures and general dentistry. Visit ClevelandSmiles.com for more information.

LEGAL

The Law

Nursing Home Patient Rights

By Meghan P. Connolly

T

he holiday season marks a time for family and gratitude for the loved ones in our lives. For family members living in a nursing home or longterm care facility, the holidays may not be the same as they used to be.

Hopefully, this time of year is an opportunity for meaningful visits with loved ones in nursing homes where traditions and memories can continue. Facilities should support residents who want to spend time with family and keep religious and family traditions alive.

Holiday visits are a great way to maintain family connections and improve an older loved one’s quality of life. Companionship and emotional connection lower the risks of elder abuse, high blood pressure and long-term illness.

Sometimes when visiting a loved one in a nursing home, questions arise about the rights of both residents and their visitors. Becoming familiar with the Ohio Nursing Home Patient Bill of Rights is a good place to start.

YOUR RIGHTS AND THEIRS Every Ohio nursing home resident has legal rights defined in the Ohio Nursing Home Patient Bill of Rights.

Nursing homes must uphold these standards to comply with the law.

There are 33 rights listed, some added as recently as October.

The most notable include: • Freedom from physical, verbal, mental and emotional abuse.

• The right to be treated at all times with courtesy, respect and full recognition of dignity and individuality.

• The right to actively participate in decisions that affect the resident’s life, including communicating with physicians and staff.

• The right to access information concerning a medical condition, prognosis and treatment plan in understandable terms.

• Full access to medical records.

• The right to observe religious obligations and activities, maintain individual and cultural identity and participate in social and community groups.

Depending on the resident’s abilities, they may not be able to recognize if their rights are violated.

During your holiday visit, and others, pay attention to the facility and the

caregivers. If you notice anything that seems off—like caregiver neglect or understaffing, a sudden change in your loved one’s behavior or withdrawal—it may be a sign of nursing home abuse.

As nursing home lawyers, we often get questions from family members after an adverse event — a fall, a transfer to an emergency room, an error with medical care — regarding whether the resident’s rights were violated. Every potential case of nursing home neglect and abuse should be taken seriously. This often begins with a family member’s efforts to determine what happened and why, especially when understaffing is suspected.

Beyond the Patient Bill of Rights, nursing home residents have other rights stemming from federal regulations and common law. A nursing home lawyer can help you navigate the regulations that apply in Ohio.

Meghan P. Connolly is a partner of the law firm Lowe Eklund Wakefield, and a member of the American Association for Justice, the Ohio State Bar Association, and the Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association. Her legal practice is focused on nursing home abuse and negligence, and wrongful death issues.

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Quirky

Cleveland

How “A Christmas Story” Became More Than a Movie

By Estelle Rodis-Brown

Ralphie with his tongue frozen to the flagpole in a triple dog dare. The Old Man and his prized leg lamp in the front window. The Red Ryder BB gun in the Higbee’s display window. Ralphie’s humiliating pink bunny suit.

These iconic scenes from “A Christmas Story” have become part of our collective holiday memory. And since the movie was filmed primarily in Cleveland’s Tremont neighborhood, the cult following that has kept “A Christmas Story” alive all these years has a special hold in the hearts of Northeast Ohioans.

CHRISTMAS PAST Watching “A Christmas Story” is an enduring holiday tradition that fills Boomers with nostalgia and young people with amusement. Over the past 36 years, the film has spawned a Cleveland phenomenon, with daily house and museum tours, physical and online gift shops, overnight stays in the neighborhood, even a live theater show and upcoming 5K and 10K runs. The official website, achristmasstoryhouse.com, relishes in every detail of the film’s lore.

According to the website, when the film debuted in 1983, “A Christmas Story” was more a low-budget director’s passion project than a sure-fire hit. Since then, the powers of home videos and cable TV conspired to make “A Christmas Story” one of the most popular holiday movies of all time, alongside “It’s A Wonderful Life” and “Miracle on 34th Street.” The cable network TNT first aired its 12-showing, 24-hour movie marathon of “A Christmas Story” as a stunt in 1988, but popular demand turned the stunt into tradition. The film even inspired the creation of “The Wonder Years” television show.

Cleveland was selected from among 20 alternative cities as the primary film

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Try these “A Christmas Story”-themed events this holiday season 2019 A CHRISTMAS STORY RUN (5K & 10K OPTIONS) The distance between the former Higbee’s department store and A Christmas Story House & Museum is about 5 kilometers. Run back down memory lane to the movie set locations that made this film famous. Dress up like Ralphie, run in a Leg Lamp Costume or jog in the Bunny Suit that Aunt Clara gave Ralphie for Christmas, The 10K route runs to the House and back to the starting area at Public Square. The 5K race ends at the House and serves as a fundraiser for A Christmas Story House Foundation. achristmasstoryrun.com 9 a.m. December 7 Cleveland Public Square start and finish A CHRISTMAS STORY (On Stage) He’s back! One boy. One holiday wish. And a world that seems to be conspiring to make certain it doesn’t come true. The recordbreaking show returns to the CPH stage in all its pink-bunny-suit, glowing-leg-lamp, triple-dog-daring glory; the perfect holiday treat for the entire family (for children aged 4 and up). playhousesquare.org November 29 - December 23 Allen Theatre, Cleveland Play House ($20 -97)

location (along with Toronto, Ontario), to depict an Indiana town during the 1940s. The willingness of Higbee’s department store to allow the movie to be filmed inside clinched Cleveland as the city of choice. Now, as they say, the rest is history and “A Christmas Story” has taken on a life of its own on the streets of Cleveland.

A Christmas Story House at 3159 W. 11th St. is open year-round for public tours. Across the street is A Christmas Story Museum, which features original props, costumes and memorabilia from the film, as well as hundreds of rare, behind-the-scenes photos.

Both A Christmas Story House and The Bumpus House next door are open for overnight stays. The Bumpus House is the fictional home of Ralphie’s hillbilly neighbors, the Bumpuses, and their 785 smelly hound dogs. (Reservations available at BumpusHouse.com.)

After reliving “A Christmas Story“ at Ralphie’s house, visitors can stop in at the museum gift shop for movie memorabilia. The online gift shop is redriderleglamps.com. Proceeds from the gift shop and overnight stays help support and maintain A Christmas Story House & Museum.

Fans can continue their tradition of watching the annual “A Christmas Story” marathon on TBS on Christmas Eve. The movie marathon attracts more than 40 million viewers. But only Northeast Ohioans can visit A Christmas Story House and Museum whenever they please.

Offbeat and Only Here Before the holidays become a blur of gift lists and obligations, make a plan to make them special. While long-held traditions like watching live performances of “The Nutcracker” or “A Christmas Carol” certainly hold their place, why not break the mold and start a few offbeat holiday traditions with your friends and loved ones?

Northeast Ohio has plenty of fun and entertaining options from Thanksgiving through the New Year.

CASTLE NOEL Open year-round, Castle Noel in Medina is America’s largest indoor Christmas entertainment attraction, covering 40,000 square feet.

Where else is it snowing indoors and you can ride a slide, just like Ralphie from “A Christmas Story?”

(Anyone over age 80 who rides the slide earns a spot on the Wall of Fame. So far, Castle Noel’s oldest slide-rider is 101.) Step into the fantasy world of creator Mark Klaus, where you’ll find the world’s largest privately-owned collection of Hollywood Christmas movie props and costumes from “The Grinch,” “Elf,” “The Santa Clause 1, 2 & 3,” “Christmas Carol,” “Deck the Halls” and more.

Also enjoy animated Christmas windows from New York City’s Saks Fifth Avenue, Bloomingdale’s, Lord & Taylor, and Macy’s. Re-live childhood with the “I Had That” toyland experience, featuring thousands of toys from the ’50s through the ’80s. There’s also Blizzard Vortex, Santa’s Chimney Squeeze and a 25-foot-tall animated Christmas tree. castlenoel.com For tour days/times, see castlenoel.com/hours 260 S. Court St., Medina (Age 3 & under FREE-$21) ADULT SWIM: CHRISTMAS ALES & CIDERS The Greater Cleveland Aquarium’s Adult Swim evening tasting series returns for its sixth year.

Guests mix and mingle among the sharks, stingrays and weedy sea dragons (without getting wet!) while sampling a variety of holiday ales and ciders.

GreaterClevelandAquarium.com November 23, 2019 7pm - 10pm 2000 Sycamore St., Cleveland ($25 -75) MEMORIES OF CHRISTMAS PAST This annual holiday spectacular features breathtaking vignettes and vintage Christmas decor from the 1800s through the 1960s. It fills seven rooms of the Arts & Crafts mansion of Olive and Wilford Arms. Vintage decor includes toys, trains, ornaments, lights, trees and more. ohiotraveler.com November 23, 2019 – January 5, 2020 Arms Family Museum 648 Wick Ave., Youngstown ($5-7)

GHOSTS OF CHRISTMAS PAST CANDLELIGHT TOURS It’s 1915, and mysterious happenings have driven away the Blackwood family’s household staff, just in time for the holiday season. Tour participants will arrive at the sprawling estate built by the wealthy Cleveland industrialist. As they wind through the mansion’s dark halls, they encounter unexplained noises, footsteps in empty corridors and strange sightings. True stories from Cleveland’s past weave together this holiday mystery.

Contact Western Reserve Historical Society for reservations: call 216-721-5722 x1003 or email tickets@wrhs.org. wrhs.org November 29 & 30; December 6, 7, 13, 14, 19, 20, 21 & 22 5:30-9 p.m.

Cleveland History Center 10825 East Blvd., Cleveland ($15-20) ANNUAL HOLIDAY WINE FESTIVAL AT THE GALAXY This wine-tasting event showcases over 100 wines paired with culinary food selections from Executive Chef Jonathon Martin. Wines range in price from $10 to $100, ensuring that both new and familiar regions, producers, and varietals are offered. Showcasing some of the best wines available in Ohio, this event also features live music, cooking demos and auctions. galaxyrestaurant.com November 30 7-10 PM Galaxy Restaurant, Steakhouse and Wine Room 201 Park Centre Dr., Wadsworth ($75) ICONIC HOLIDAY LAUGHS...

ALL WOMEN’S SHOW Enjoy a night out with an all-women comedian line-up that will make you LAUGH, think, LAUGH, ponder, LAUGH and want to come back for more. (Ages 21+) alextheatercleveland.com Friday, December 20 8:30-10:30 p.m.

ALEX Theater at The 9 2017 E. 9th. St., Cleveland ($10-50)

Estelle Rodis-Brown is a freelance writer and photographer from Portage County who also serves as digital/ assistant editor of Boomer magazine.

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Tasty Hometown Gifts

Yum!

FOR EVERYONE ON YOUR LIST (DOGS, TOO)

By Sue Botos

’T

is the season for local markets, crafts fairs and grocery stores bursting with home-grown holiday treats from stocking stuffers to hostess gifts to gourmet sweets and snacks.

Whether you want to gather the goodies yourself or pick out a ready-made gift basket, there’s bound to be something to whet the appetite of any foodie on your gift list. (Don’t

forget a little something for yourself!)

We know that point-and-click shopping has taken a bite out of retail. But our gift guide offers a sampling of what the region has to offer, both online and on the road for a taste of old-fashioned holiday shopping.

The best part? Whatever option you choose, you are supporting businesses born and raised in Northeast Ohio.

Humphrey Company

Brandt’s Candies

What says Cleveland nostalgia more than Humphrey’s famous candy kisses, popcorn balls and chocolate drizzle? Family-owned and operated since 1897, all popcorn is still grown and processed on their 500-acre farm in Wakeman.

ONLINE: humphreycompany.com ON THE ROAD: Heinen’s Fine Foods, B.A. Sweetie Candy Company.

Another local sweet spot is Brandt’s Candies, which has been using original family recipes since 1948. Hand-dipped chocolates and their celebrated maple creams are sure to please the sweet tooth on your list.

ONLINE: brandtschocolates.com ON THE ROAD: 1238 Lost Nation Road, Willoughby

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Better Living After 50

Lake Erie Pet Food Company Don’t forget your best friend. For four years, Eric and Julie Huber have been home-delivering natural, locally made food and treats to dogs and cats throughout Cuyahoga County. They just opened a shop in a renovated Ohio City building to better serve our furry friends.

ONLINE: lakeeriepet.com ON THE ROAD: 4164 Lorain Avenue, Ohio City

Little Lakewood Pasta Company Starting out at the Lakewood Farmers’ Market, this smallbatch pasta company uses local, sustainable ingredients in its fresh, made-daily penne, fusilli and lasagna. A fun variety of flavors is available, depending on the season.

ONLINE: littlelakewoodpasta.com ON THE ROAD: 15613 Detroit Avenue, Lakewood (retail shop open Friday, Saturday, Sunday)

West Side Market How about a one-stop-shop for everything Cleveland? Started in 1840, the market is home to over 100 vendors housed in an iconic building that has become a Cleveland landmark. Choose from local favorites such as artisan pasta, jams, jellies and honey, plus locally made cheeses, meats for your holiday table and unique gifts.

ONLINE: westsidemarket.org ON THE ROAD: 1979 West 25th St., Cleveland

Flavor of Ohio OK, armchair shoppers, this one’s for you. Providing gourmet gift baskets for 27 years, this family-owned business carries everything Ohio, from collections for Browns and Buckeyes fans to soothing spa gifts and local jams and jellies.

ONLINE: flavorohio.com

Holmes Mouth-Watering Applesauce Shaker Heights native Ethan Holmes was just 15 when he launched his company using his grandfather’s applesauce recipe. Today, the tasty treat is offered in Original, Apple Pie Cinnamon and Strawberry Peach flavors.

ONLINE: holmesapplesauce.com ON THE ROAD: Many grocery stores including Whole Foods.

Rustbelt Pepper Company High-quality, simple ingredients flavor the traditional Mediterranean recipes for their roasted pepper relish.

Everything is vegan, gluten-free and non-GMO. ONLINE: www.rustbeltpepper.com ON THE ROAD: Breadsmith of Lakewood, Market at Flying Fig

Sue Botos is a freelance writer from Rocky River who can’t wait to sink her teeth into all the holidays have to offer; just not the after-holiday diet!

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Meet NEO’s Givers OUR VOLUNTEER SALUTE What better way to kick off the season of giving than recognizing some of our region’s most impressive volunteers? No other age group gives as much of its time, talent and energy as Boomers. We want to introduce you to a few outstanding givers suggested by our readers and provided by Greater Cleveland Volunteers (greaterclevelandvolunteers.org).

Meet: Gail Tichy

Where: Cleveland Metroparks A retired federal worker, Tichy inherited a love of gardening from her grandmother. For more than four years, she’s been a gardening volunteer, first at South Chagrin and now mostly at North Chagrin Reservation. She also volunteers for Hospice of the Western Reserve, teaches classes to children at the Cleveland Botanical Garden and works with scientists at the David E. Leech laboratory on many of their studies regarding climate change and plant phenology, carbon effects on plants and tree diseases.

In Her Own Words: “I love working with all

the naturalists, but especially Jeff Riebe and Stefanie Verish. They are so knowledgeable and inspiring about our native plants. And I’ve met so many people (I’m known as the Tuesday girl) who stop by and talk to me about their gardens and how they love what we are doing at the park.

And it’s that acknowledgment of ‘Thank you for what you do … it’s just beautiful’ …that keeps me coming back each week.”

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Meet: Judy Solonche

Meet: Linda Dohanyos

Where: Hospice of the

Where: Avon Oaks Caring Community

Western Reserve

Solonche spent 20 years helping kids of all ages as a special education teacher for the Cleveland Metropolitan School District.

At the same time, she held a private tutoring job that lasted about five years into retirement. She has always helped people. She has always connected with people. But just how and why did Solonche find herself volunteering at two partner agencies of Greater Cleveland Volunteers?

Looking to keep active, Solonche went to a Greater Cleveland Volunteers informational meeting that offered up opportunities from 100+ nonprofit organizations.

She met the CEO of Hospice of the Western Reserve who asked what she wanted to do next. “I want to do something as great as what I did before,” she said.

She found fulfillment by providing vigils through Hospice of the Western Reserve. When a family is exhausted and needs relief in caring for their loved one, Hospice calls Solonche, typically working two shifts a week.

Solonche’s passion for volunteering started with heartbreak. When she was 18, she and a friend were in a devastating accident that took her friend’s life.

In Her Own Words: “Everything

I learned (from that experience) never left. I understand what it is like to be so close to death. I could be with anyone after that.

I wait for people to connect with what I believe. The tragedy allowed me to put myself into hospice work – like I understood everything. I am not happy unless I am giving.”

Dohanyos’ husband was a resident at Avon Oaks for nine months. A month after his death in December 2010, she returned and asked to be a volunteer.

The staff considers her part of the community’s family. She assists with Bingo, crafts, shopping trips and outings to Indians and Browns games.

In Her Own Words: “The enjoyment I get from volunteering at Avon Oaks

is from being around all the many people, residents and staff. I love to talk to and laugh with my many friends here. The Child Care Center is an added bonus. I love to play with and cuddle the babies.

Meet: Shirley Hemminger

Where: McGregor, St. Augustine Manor,

Malachi House and special events throughout Cuyahoga County

Meet: Martha

“Martie” Allen

Where: Lutheran

Metropolitan Ministry After retiring from a 40year nursing career, Allen’s friends and coworkers encouraged her to continue to help others. She turned to Greater Cleveland Volunteers and enrolled with the Adult Guardianship Services through Lutheran Metropolitan Ministry.

The volunteers represent individuals who need assistance with medical care and who need help making decisions on their own.

In Her Own Words: What

does she enjoy the most about volunteering? “I enjoy being able to put my career skills in action for those who need the assistance.”

After retiring 2 ½ years ago as a registered nurse at University Hospitals and as a faculty member at Kent State University’s school of nursing, Hemminger knew she wanted to remain active. She has steady volunteer assignments with several nonprofit agencies, generally giving 20-25 hours a week at McGregor, St. Augustine Manor and Malachi House, but what she really embraces is helping at special events in Cuyahoga County.

Many nonprofit agencies seek assistance for a oneor two-day project. The tasks can be anything from preparing for an event (decorating, setting tables) to serving food, taking tickets, helping with fundraising components at the event, or assisting with mailings.

In Her Own Words: Helping at special events can

be both fun and challenging. “Even though I may get exhausted at some of the events, I feel good.

Meeting so many special volunteers and people at the various agencies has been a gift. I have an incredible new awareness and appreciation of the work that goes on at ‘behind the scenes’ agencies all over Cuyahoga County. I have met some of the wealthiest and some of the poorest residents of Cleveland. I have met some of the oldest and the youngest. I have met some of the most powerful and the most vulnerable through my special event activities. I am so grateful and happy that I have been able to get involved like this and maybe even help to bring a smile and a little comfort to those who I have come in contact with.”

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Meet: Mars Patterson

Where: Greater Cleveland Habitat for Humanity

Handy or not handy, Greater Cleveland Habitat for Humanity may have some work for you. Just ask Mars Patterson.

Although he had been a project leader for the engineering department at Allied Construction during his working years, hands-on labor was not a regular activity.

After retiring, Patterson became active at the United Church of Christ in Middleburg Heights, which was very involved with Habitat for Humanity (a nonprofit organization that relies on public donations to sustain their vision to help families build and improve places to call home). He enrolled with Greater Cleveland Volunteers. After volunteering at one site, he was hooked and became a construction assistant. He gets plenty of guidance from the crew supervisor.

So, You Want to Volunteer?

By Traci McBride

Everything in life comes with its own inventory of pros and cons, especially how you decide to spend your time and efforts in volunteerism. Creating your own list of positives and negatives is good advice before starting any long- or short-term commitments.

Strike up a conversation with someone who volunteers on a regular basis and ask about their experience.

It can give you a good perspective and direction on organizations that match your belief system and interests. Your time is priceless; giving it with joy is selfless and satisfying.

Let’s Start with the Cons of Volunteering • Time commitment • Costs of travel or food • Unappreciative recipients of your efforts • Personality conflicts • Personal energy expenditure • Potential of choosing the wrong organization

Meet: Joan Ibbett

Where: Hospice of the Western Reserve As both an employee and volunteer at Hospice of the Western Reserve, Ibbett believes in its mission of caring.

Ibbett visits patients who are living at home, in nursing homes, or at one of Hospice of the Western Reserve’s three Inpatient Units. Her volunteer tasks vary from companionship, respite, vigil “By-Your-Side” support when the end of life is very near, to personal care, feeding assistance and sometimes transportation.

Seeing the impact volunteers have in nonprofit agencies, she became involved with Greater Cleveland Volunteers as a committee member in 2012. Soon after, she joined their board and has enjoyed witnessing what they do to recruit, train, encourage and engage volunteers with meaningful efforts.

In Her Own Words: “When I was a pediatric oncology nurse in a

hospital and home care, l always felt drawn to the kids who were dying. It’s not easy, but I requested to take care of them. I saw that volunteering to help with both pediatric and adult hospice and palliative care patients was a perfect fit for me. I had seen how different the kids are when they were at home (happier, more at ease) as opposed to being in the hospital, and wanted to help people of all ages who would like to stay at home for their end-of-life journey.”

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Better Living After 50

• Emotional drain when engaging with those in difficult life situations

And Now the Pros…

• A ging active & engaged extends to graceful aging • Influencing another human being can be life-saving • Practicing or elevating your skillset • Mastering time management • E xperiencing an organization from the inside • Socializing while creating new friendships with like-minded people • Increasing self-esteem & confidence • Creating the ripple effect in your community & in other people • Inspiring friends and family to get involved • Aligning with a non-profit that touches you on a personal level is rewarding • Spearheading ideas inside the organization Source: CharityNavigator.org

Traci McBride of TeeMcBee. com has passionately been a volunteer with Dress for Success – Cleveland since 2008.

Meet: Mary Jane Molnar Where: Hungarian Cultural Club of Northeast Ohio, Lake County Democratic Women’s Caucus This energetic woman not only finds time to volunteer, but she also is the gift shop manager for the Hungarian Museum in the Galleria in downtown Cleveland.

She’s also a past officer of the women’s caucus.

Meet: Rich Burand Where: Cleveland Botanical Garden

Helping people is in Burand’s nature. After a 26-year career in nursing at Mt. Sinai Medical Center, he decided to hang up his

scrubs and take a new direction.

Always looking for new experiences, in 2016 Burand started volunteering at the botanical garden’s Sunday morning custodial shift. He now teaches “Is It Alive?” and “Plant Parts” classes geared to kindergarteners. He is also part of the “Creature Feature” program, presenting animals such as the chameleon and a tenrec, an unusual hedgehog-like mammal from Madagascar. In addition, Burand

feeds the animals and releases butterflies every Friday. Becoming an animal interpreter was never a life goal for Burand, but this is where his journey has taken him.

In His Own Words: For others

considering volunteering, “You don’t know what you’re missing. What I get paid, you can’t put in dollars and cents.

You don’t know what you’re going to experience today. Be open.”

He thinks former teachers are prime candidates to be volunteers. “There is nothing better than getting hugs from students. You never know where the pay is coming from, but it’s always genuine.”

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Meet: Clara Parker and Audrey Kaplan

Where: AARP Foundation Experience Corps literacy program Parker retired as a supervisor with the Internal Revenue Service, then had a second career with Cleveland Metroparks. When it came time to find a volunteer fit, she went to the AARP Foundation Experience Corps program that welcomes those age 55+ to share their enjoyment of reading and life-skills to tutor and encourage kindergarten to thirdgrade students.

After completing her training, she was assigned a school. Armed with resources and materials, she got started. She knows that often, a student is not ready to learn that day. This does not set her back. Parker starts with a few questions, makes eye contact and says, “What do you want to do?” The students talk for a bit, then she introduces the lesson and off they go.

Some days she’s tired but Parker forces herself to get to the classroom because it is important for the children. They look for and need consistency with an adult. Kaplan recently became an Experience Corp Team Leader for Euclid City Schools, in the city where she lives.

There, she oversees four tutors who each help four children, focusing on leadership, giving the tutors the guidance they need to deliver the curriculum. Her insurance background comes in handy, as there is a need to be extremely prepared and organized. Kaplan also facilitates a monthly team meeting where she keeps her tutors up to date on anything new with the Experience Corp program. A round-table also occurs where all are free to share their ideas of what things work with the children.

In Parker’s Own Words:

-Why do you tutor? “The children need someone to talk to.”

In Kaplan’s Own Words: As an avid reader herself,

reading is of the utmost importance to Kaplan, and she believes the same should be encouraged for kids.“You must read, no matter what you do in life.” As for volunteering, “It gives me great pride and satisfaction. I do believe we make a difference …after all, it’s all about the children.”

Meet: Sue Huber

Where: Lake Metroparks Huber was inspired by the volunteers at a Lake Metroparks program where she had taken her preschool students. She knew that when she had more time, it was where she would spend her volunteer hours. Today, she helps in numerous ways throughout the park system, learning new skills and passing those skills to visitors.

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Better Living After 50

Meet: Sandy Wile and Eugene Gordan

Where: Great Lakes Science Center

Both in their 90s, Wile started at the center in 1996; Gordan began shortly after. They volunteer every Wednesday and Friday.

Meet: Steve Kushnick Where: Nature Center at Shaker Lakes

CONNECT WITH US! /NEOhio​Boomer

/​NEOhio​Boomer

Kushnick is the 2019 Nature Center Volunteer of the Year. He not only volunteers at the welcome desk answering questions about trails and native habitats but also helps in the Education Department with crafts and special projects.

The retired psychologist is known as the Center’s “go-to” volunteer and “the fun one.”

Meet: Michele Kaminsky

Where: President-elect,

National Council of Jewish Women Cleveland, owner of Mika’s wig shop.

When alopecia caused Kaminsky’s hair to fall out, she realized the need for a wig shop to serve both the orthodox Jewish community and others who choose to wear wigs because of the effects of their illnesses.

Kaminsky takes over in July as president of the NCJW/CLE, which is also celebrating its 125th year (see story on Page 9).

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HEALTH

Ask the Ortho

SHOULDERING THE PAIN

By Reuben Gobezie, MD

QUESTION:

Why Does My Shoulder Hurt When I Raise My Arm? ANSWER: Many patients come to my office with pain in their shoulders, simply from raising their arms. While there are many causes of shoulder pain, this may be a symptom of shoulder impingement. It is a very common condition that, if diagnosed early, can be treated very effectively.

The main symptom is a recurring ache on the outside upper part of your shoulder when you raise your arms to shoulder height.

Impingement syndrome occurs due to pinching and inflammation of the rotator cuff tendon and bursa in the space below the acromion (the tip of the shoulder blade). The pain is worse when the arm is raised away from the body.

OVERUSE Impingement usually occurs as a result of repetitive and chronic compression of the rotator cuff tendons. This can trigger the pain.

Sometimes referred to as swimmer’s shoulder, this syndrome is common

HELP US BRING JOY THIS CHRISTMAS SEASON

with people who perform repetitive arm rotations when exercising or working. These types of repetitive stress injuries are also common in those with assemblyline jobs.

To understand impingement, it is important to understand what the rotator cuff muscles are. There are four rotator cuff muscles: Supraspinatus, Infraspinatus, Teres Minor, Subscapularis These four muscles act like a sleeve (or a cuff) around your arm and connect to your humerus (upper arm) bone via tendons. They help hold your arm in place, provide shoulder stability and enable movement.

Damage to any one of the four rotator cuff muscles could result in inflammation and swelling and general pain in the shoulder, or cause shoulder impingement. Rotator cuff tears and impingement problems can exist separately or together. It is possible that rotator cuff tears are the result of impingement syndrome and age-related changes within the rotator cuff tendons.

Unlike some rotator cuff tears, impingement symptoms are marked by pain. Motions such as reaching up behind the back or reaching up overhead to put on a coat or blouse, for example, will hurt.

Overhead motions tend to increase the pain drastically. The discomfort usually

increases at night due to the amount of inflammation that builds during the day.

BEFORE YOU SEE A DOCTOR The first course of action is to reduce swelling and pain. Things you can try at home include applying ice, wearing a compression sleeve and discontinuing activities that may have contributed to the overuse of the shoulder If the shoulder pain doesn’t go away or worsens, see a shoulder specialist. It’s important to properly diagnose your condition to ensure you’re getting the best treatment.

A specialist will evaluate your X-ray or MRI and determine a care plan.

Non-surgical treatments may include activity modifications, physical therapy and/or a cortisone shot to ease the pain. If there is no improvement in your strength or the injury worsens over time, surgery may be the best option to restore function and alleviate pain.

Dr. Gobezie is the founding director of The Cleveland Shoulder Institute, GO Ortho and Regen Orthopedics.

For more information, visit clevelandshoulder.com or regenorthopedics.com or godoctornow.com.

For many, the holidays are a time of celebrations, traditions and joy.

For many others who are struggling, it is a time of increased stress and depression.

You can help those families in need by donating today.

DONATE ONLINE AT

SalvationArmyOhio.org OR CALL 1800SALARMY

Now accepted at the kettles.

32

Better Living After 50

MIND MATTERS Sponsored By

Brain Games UPGRADE YOUR MEMORY FITNESS ROUTINE

HOW ARE YOU WITH NUMBERS? Give this a try. Complete the sequence and fill in the missing numbers.

Example:

1 2 3 4 5 6

2, 5

4, 10

__ , __

7, 17

11, 13

15, 9

__ , __

24, 3

32, 4

40, 5

__ , __

17, 35

18, 37

19, 39

__ , __

76, 38

54, 27

32, 16

__ , __

59, 95

69, 96

__ , __

89, 98

23, 35

44, 56

65, 77

__ , __

7

__ , __

77, 17

55, 15

33, 13

8

66, 3

__ , __

110, 5

132, 6

16, 40 ANSWER: 8, 20

A smile starts on the lips. A grin spreads to the eyes. A chuckle comes from the belly: But a good laugh bursts forth from the soul, overflows and bubbles all around. — Carolyn Birmingham

Puzzle provided by Kathryn Kilpatrick, Memory Fitness/Brain Health consultant, Geriatric Life Enhancement consultant and speechlanguage pathologist. For more games and tips, go to connectionsincommunication.com or memoryfitnessmatters.com

November/December 2019

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1. 19,5, 2. 48.6, 3. 20,41, 4. 10,5, 5. 79,97, 6. 86,98, 7. 99,19, 8. 88,4 ANSWERS:

SPONSORED CONTENT/PRESENTED BY MAXSTRENGTH FITNESS

STRONGER & HEALTHIER in as Little as 20 Minutes Twice a Week

Mary wanted to improve muscle tone and energy, so she turned to MaxStrength Fitness to get there.

After several months at Jeff Tomaszewski’s (left) MaxStrength Fitness, Mary Dolph’s key medical numbers, such as level of inflammation, are the best they’ve been in five years.

T

he profound impact of strength Spinal training is having a moment. A fusion surgery and heart surgery left recent study suggests that lifting 70-year-old retired school psychologist weights protects you against heart Mary Dolph of Waite Hill thinking fitness attacks and strokes better than running training was not a fit for her. or cycling. Conducted by researchers at “I cannot have my heart rate go above St. George’s University, the study ana100 beats per minute,” says the mother of lyzed data from 4,086 adults. It found three and grandmother of two. “But then a connection between muscle-building I read about MaxStrength in exercise and reducMimi Magazine and wondered tions in body weight if they’d have the knowledge and blood pressure, as and expertise to work with well as fewer incidencme.” es of diabetes.

Says Jeff, “During her initial Though the findings consultation, we took the pace might be shocking to slow and safe, modifying every many in the healthcare part of her workout to make and fitness arena, this sure her heart rate stayed is more of a “preaching where it should, and that she — Mary Dolph, Waite Hill to the choir” situation wasn’t experiencing pain.” for Jeff Tomaszewski, “The trainers had such a high level of founder of MaxStrength Fitness studio. knowledge and training, I felt immediBack in 2000, when he was a gradately comfortable here,” she says. “After uate student at Case Western Reserve not having exercised for the past three or University, Jeff conducted his own four years, my goal was primarily to gain study— one that was the basis of his muscle and endurance. Before my surmaster’s thesis, that pointed to the geries, I was quite active, always hiking, effectiveness of strength training in cross-country skiing and snow-shoeing, improving a person’s overall cardiovasand I had done some strength training cular efficiency. and enjoyed it.”

And in 2007, he opened MaxStrength She reports that after several months based on the optimal equation of at MaxStrength, her key medical num20-minute muscle building sessions bers, such as level of inflammation, scheduled twice a week, aimed at faare the best they’ve been in five years. tiguing the muscles and allowing them “In addition to muscle tone and more to rebuild.

Tailor Made for Cardiac Issues

“As a perennial gardener, before coming here I could only work in the garden for 10 minutes or so.

Now I can be out there for three hours. It’s lovely.”

34

Better Living After 50

energy, I also am enjoying improved mobility,” she says. “As a perennial gardener, before coming here I could only work in the garden for 10 minutes or so.

Now I can be out there for three hours.

It’s lovely.”

She describes the trainers as being like family, always greeting her when she comes in the door.

“The sweat-free workouts are so much fun,” she continues. “Trainers are with you at all times, watching that you have correct form and making modifications when needed.”

Jeff also mentions that most personal trainers would not have taken Mary as a client, with her medical limitations.

“We have the expertise to mold a program around a client’s specifications,” he says. “There are no cookie-cutter workouts here.”

To schedule a complimentary consultation with MaxStrength Fitness, at 4212 State Route 306 in Willoughby, call 440226- 8080 or at 2211 Crocker Road in Westlake, call 440-835-9090. For more information, or to view more success stories, visit MaxStrengthFitness.com.

Boomer h s a B ´ Northeast Ohio

East

A Big THANK YOU to our sponsors, exhibitors and attendees who made the BOOmer Bash on October 30th our best event yet!

Presented by

Silver Sponsor

K. Hovnanian’s® Four Seasons at Chestnut Ridge

Benefitting the Walk

khov.com/FSChestnutRidge • 866-601-9464

to End Alzheimer's

Food Vendors

COMPLIMENTARY SMALL BITES WERE PROVIDED BY 700 Beta & Conference Center 440-646-1777 700beta.com BJ’s Wholesale Eastside 216-360-0700 bjs.com

Ellie May’s Cookies 216-526-2363 elliemayscookies.com Hello Bistro 216-342-4843 hellobistro.com

Italian Creations 216-226-2282 italiancreation.com Pinstripes 216-415-8010 pinstripes.com

November/December 2019

University Hospitals Sodexo Healthcare Services 216-593-5774 uhhospitals.org

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Boomer h s a B ´ Northeast Ohio

East

EDUCATION

Encore 55+ Learning Cuyahoga Community College tri-c.edu/encore 216-987-2274

ENTERTAINMENT/ACTIVITIES Cain Park cainpark.com 216-291-5792 Cleveland Play House clevelandplayhouse.com 216-241-6000 Fabulous Boomer Boys 216-630-1008 Great Day! Tours & Charters greatdaytours.com 440-526-5350 Pure Image Photo Booth pureimagephotobooth.com 216-446-5178

HEALTH & WELLNESS Accudose Pharmacy accudoserx.com 888-222-6158 Aligned Health Center 440-320-7320 Apex Dermatology apexskin.com 833-279-SKIN (7546) ClearCaptions clearcaptions.com 216-645-5738 Cleveland Hearing & Speech Center chsc.org 216-231-8787 Global Meals globalmeals.com 888-928-2323 Miracle Ear miracle-ear.com 440-446-0315 Young Living Essential Oils & Wellness Products oily.life/diamondgirls 440-724-5290

HOME HEALTHCARE Angels Care Home Health angelscarehealth.com 440-653-8080 BrightStar Care of Hudson/Solon brightstarcare.com hudson-solon 330-963-7777 Comfort Keepers Beachwood comfortkeepers.com 216-595-3681

THANK YOU TO OUR Homewatch Caregivers hwcg.com 216-593-0120 330-963-7777 McGregor PACE mcgregorpace.org 888-895-PACE (7223) RIght at Home ohioseniorcare.net 216-752-2222

HOME IMPROVEMENT All American Gutter Protection allamericangutterprotection.com 330-268-7270 Bath Fitter bathsaver.com 800-594-8776 Gutter Logic of Ohio gutterlogic.com 440-991-7699 Kitchen Saver kitchensaver.com 800-594-8776 Leaf Filter leaffilter.com 800-290-6106 Leaf Filter Home Safety Solutions leafhomesafetysolutions.com 833-376-8129 Ohio State Home Services ohiostatewaterproofing.com 330-467-1055 Security Plus of Northeast Ohio securityplusneo.com 216-226-1800 ShelfGenie of Cleveland shelfgenie.com/cleveland 330-827-2033 Window Depot/Bath Depot Cleveland theremodelinggroupinc.com 440-652-2900

LIFESTYLE D’MAZ Lifestyle Salon dmazsalon.com 216-292-HAIR (4247) LuLaRoe Abby Millsaps shopteamham.com 330-801-0603

LIVING OPTIONS/FACILITIES Eliza Bryant Village elizabryant.org 216-361-6141 Foundations Health Solutions mentor-ridge.net 440-793-0200 HCR ManorCare Mayfield Hts hcr-manorcare.com 440-473-0090 LakeMed Care and Rehabilitation lakemedcare.com 440-357-1311

Exhibitors Landerbrook Transitional Care atriumlivingcenters.com 440-443-0345 Montefiore and The Weils montefiorecare.org 216-910-2202 Ohman Family Living ohmanfamilyliving.com Rose Senior Living Beachwood beachwood.roseseniorliving.com 216-342-3062 The Avenue Care & Rehab Center Warrensville theavenuecarecenter.com 216-896-9900

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES Asset Protection assetprotectionltd.com 814-860-3101 CareSource caresource.com 216-896-8134 Encore NEO encoreNEO.org 440-533-1002 Humana MarketPoint humana.com 330-734-9581 Ohio SMP at Pro Seniors proseniors.org 513-458-5515 Senior Living Guide SeniorLivingNEO.com 440-338-5233 Senior Transportation Connection ridestc.org 216-265-1489 Solomon, Steiner & Peck ssandplaw.com 216-245-0185 Tying Up Loose Ends, LLC tule4u.com 216-299-2967 UnitedHealthcare myuhcagent.com/charles.jennings 216-470-7849

SERVICE AGENCIES Alzheimer’s Association Cleveland Area Chapter alz.org/cleveland 216-342-5556 Benjamin Rose Institute on Aging benrose.org 216-791-8000 Cuyahoga County Division of Senior and Adult Services dsas.cuyahogacounty.us 216-420-6750 Village in the Heights villageintheheights.org 216-512-1844 Western Reserve Area Agency on Aging areaagingsolutions.org 800-626-7277

Join us for Boomer Bash 2020 - West, South and East!

36

Better Living After 50

SPONSOR PROFILE K. Hovnanian’s Four Seasons at Chestnut Ridge

288 Kensington Way (Chestnut Ridge Rd. & Bender Rd.) Elyria, Ohio 44035 866-601-9464 • khov.com/FSChestnutRidge Sales Office Open Mon 1-6pm, Tue-Sun 9am-5pm

What We Do

Get to Know Us With locations all over Northern Ohio, K. Hovnanian® Homes’ goal is to build homes for families seeking a better life and a better home. Your home should match your needs and personality, so we’ve created communities for every stage of life. From first-time home buyers to those 55+ looking to have resort-style living at home, we have the quality home you are looking for.

K. Hovnanian® Homes believes that a home should reflect an owner’s unique style. That’s why we offer a diverse portfolio of homes across Northern Ohio. Each home is built with the utmost care and with quality materials that customers get to choose. K. Hovnanian® Homes’ design studio has more than 10,000 combinations to turn a house into a home. From firsttime home buyers to those looking to downsize, we have something for everyone. Visit a nearby community to find your new home.

Homes are priced from the $160s (subject to change). K. Hovnanian® Homes is an Equal Housing Opportunity.

Our Story In 1959, our founder, Kevork S. Hovnanian, came to a new land with a dream: to build a home for his family and for all families seeking a better life. Although we were greatly saddened by his passing in 2009, his dream inspires us every day. Now in our 60th year, his integrity and legacy continue to guide us as we come together to build homes and communities for each and every family who puts their trust in us. K. Hovnanian® Homes is heir to a history of solid success, financial strength, award-winning standards of homebuilding quality and an authentic commitment to customer satisfaction.

Get Started

Visit one of our Northern Ohio communities to find the home of your dreams with K. Hovnanian® Homes.

You can also visit us online at khov. com/Ohio to find a community near you and explore our interactive home designs and features.

If You’re Not 55, You’ll Wish You Were!

®

NOW OPEN 288 Kensington Way (Chestnut Ridge Rd. and Bender Rd.,) Elyria, Ohi0 44035 866-601-9464 khov.com/FSChestnutRidge

PRICED FROM THE $200s

50s

Move in before the Holidays • From the $250s

QUICK MOVE-IN HOMES AVAILABLE NOW

Up to 2,110 sq.ft, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and 3-car garages!

K. Hovnanian's Four Seasons at Chestnut Ridge is offered by K. Hovnanian Four Seasons at Chestnut Ridge, LLC. All homes within the community are subject to an age restriction whereby the homes are restricted to use and occupancy by at least one person of age 55 years or over, and with no permanent residents being under the age of 18. All dimensions are approximate. Price reflects options that may have been added to home. Prices are subject to change. See a Sales Consultant for full details. Equal Housing Opportunity.

At Chestnut Ridge

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Showcase

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Showcase

Hospice, Palliative Care & Life Planning Sponsored Content

Starting the Conversation Vinney Hospice of Montefiore is There for You Presented by Montefiore There’s a large difference in what people say they should discuss and what they actually end up discussing when it comes to their wishes for medical care at the end of life. Most Americans think it’s important to talk about end-of-life care but fewer than three in 10 have actually done so.

“We have arrived at something of a sea change. Americans now overwhelmingly agree that it’s important to talk with loved ones about how they want to live at the end of their days.

Yet, we still find it hard to begin those conversations,” says Ellen Goodman, founder of The Conversation Project.

When one person tells another how they feel about being in various medical circumstances and their fears, and then verbalizes a trust in the decisionmaking power of someone else — that is where the real work and heartfelt conversations need to happen.

Montefiore’s Vinney hospice team is there for you and your family on this journey. Our compassionate team is trained in comprehensive end-of-life care. We provide support wherever you call home, whether in a private residence, an assisted, independent or skilled-nursing facility, or in Montefiore’s Maltz Hospice House.

We welcome all faiths. To learn more, please call 216-910-2650 or visit montefiorecare.org.

Submitted by Susan Lieberman, Montefiore director of marketing and public relations. 216-910-2647. slieberman@montefiorecare.org.

38

Better Living After 50

Showcase

Stick with a Winner!

Congrats to

Boomer Northeast Ohio

and Beyond

for capturing 7 awards including

1st Place General Excellence

1st Place

Best Overall Design

November/December 2019

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Sponsored Content

Bucket List Basics Your Lifestyle at 60 & Beyond

By Lee Ann O’Brien of The McGregor Foundation

Think differently about accessibility… to jobs beyond our 60s, affordable housing, social and community programs for quality of life and longevity. Why is this important?

Looking at the landscape of aging populations in Northeast

Ohio, we can see the challenges for the growing population of the 300,000 older adults living in Cuyahoga County.

This has obvious implications for Social Security and other programs serving aging

citizens. At the same time, we’re ‘sandwiched’ within our own family. What happens when we want to retire but a parent needs assisted living?

You’ll need professionals in your corner. Resources include:

1. Estate Planning Council of Cleveland epccleveland.org 2. Lutheran Metropolitan Ministry lutheranmetro.org 3. Legal Aid Society of Cleveland lasclev.org 4. Senior Transportation Connection ridestc.org 5. Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) mcgregorpace.org 6. Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association’s Lawyer Referral Service clemetrbar.org 7. D ept of Aging I City of Cleveland - city.cleveland. oh.us/CityofCleveland/ Home/Government/ CityAgencies/Aging 8. Home Repair Resource Center hrrc-ch.org Balancing career, family, life and fulfillment is the one challenge we have in common.

Find the best fit for you and your clients, today and in the future. For more tips, see the McGregor story at NortheastOhioBoomer.com.

Lee Ann O’Brien is a Certified Elder Care Coordinator and Chief Marketing Officer for The McGregor Foundation, supporting the needs of over 900 seniors daily, operating seven different care-settings throughout Cuyahoga County and McGregor PACE, the only Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) in Ohio, caring for another 600 participants, enabling seniors to age in a place they call home.

40 Better Living After 50

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Managing Pain as You Age Presented by Angels Care Home Health If you have suffered from pain for several months or longer, you’re among the millions of Americans with a condition known as chronic pain. Despite decades of research, chronic pain remains complex and difficult to treat.

Chronic pain can be managed successfully, often through prescriptions and over-the-counter medications. Angels Care Home Health understands the importance of managing pain. In addition to drugs, it may take both medicine and other treatments to feel better, such as: • Acupuncture: Uses hair-thin needles to stimulate specific points on the body to relieve pain.

• Biofeedback: Helps you learn to control your heart rate, blood pressure and muscle tension. This may help reduce your pain and stress levels.

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If you’re living with chronic pain, you want to do everything you can to help your body, not hinder it. Aside from medications, other things that might help you feel better include eating a well-balanced diet and maintaining a healthy weight, moving, getting enough sleep, seeing a pain specialist, avoiding tobacco, caffeine and alcohol and keeping a pain journal.

If you or a loved one are suffering from chronic pain and want to learn more, contact Angels Care Home Health today for more information about its Pain Management Program, community education classes or to discuss the benefits of home health service at 330-835-9663 or angelscarehealth.com.

As we celebrate our 53rd year, the Reidy family and the wonderful caregivers of Avon Oaks Caring Community are proud to say we have

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“Avon Oaks is a place of help, hope and healing.”

P. Hoag - Rehab Client

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WHAT’S

Happening 12/5 Senior Wreath-Making Workshop Ages 50 and older, come out and decorate your own wreath with all the materials provided to create your masterpiece. 11:30 a.m. Lakefront Lodge, 30525 Lake Shore Blvd., Willowick, lakemetroparks.com

CLASSES PICK YOUR DAY THURSDAYS Over 55 Personal Training Class. Looking for guidance from a personal trainer to improve balance, core strength and muscle tone? Join this class, 2-3 p.m. UH Avon Health Ctr., 1997 Healthway Dr., Avon, 844-3125433, uhhospitals.org/agewell.

FREE Senior Exercise. A light workout to music. 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Community Partnership on Aging, South Euclid Community Ctr., 1370 Victory Dr., 216-6504029, munitypartnershiponaging. org. FREE DAY BY DAY 11/22 Painting in the Park. Enjoy a beginner painting class while taking in the beautiful scenery.

You will be guided step-bystep in painting a fall-inspired woodland scene. 7-8:30 p.m.

CanalWay Center, 4524 East 49th St., Cuyahoga Hts., clevelandmetroparks.com. $25 11/23 Jewelry Workshop: Wire Wrapping. This class introduces general wire-wrapping techniques. Students will have

full control over what type of jewelry they make, using the presented techniques. 9:30 a.m. -12:30 p.m. Whistle Stop Building. 611 West Bagley Rd., Second Floor, Berea, bwcommunityarts.bw.edu $42 11/27 Nature Crafting. Flip your switch and enjoy some nature ornament crafting. 4 p.m. Towner’s Woods Park, 2264 Ravenna Rd., Kent, co.portage.oh.us 12/14 Winter Watercolor Cards Workshop. Appreciate the colors in the winter landscape and pull them from your palette to create a unique watercolor card.

9:30-11:30 a.m. South Chagrin Reservation, 37374 Miles Rd., Bentleyville, clevelandmetroparks.com. $25 1/18 Adult Beginning Guitar Lessons. Learn the basics of the acoustic guitar including how to play several guitar riffs. 9:30-10:30 a.m. Avon Lake Public Library, 32649 Electric Blvd., 440-933-8128, alpl.org. FREE

CLUBS

MONDAYS Foodie Movies. Watch movies that will whet your appetite.

12/2 - “The Hundred Foot Journey.” 1/6 - “Big Night.”

6:30-8:30 p.m. University Heights Branch Library, 13866 Cedar Rd., 216-932-3600, heightslibrary.org. FREE TUESDAYS Young at Heart 2019. A book club for adults who love children’s and teens’ books. First Tuesday of each month. 7-8 p.m. Strongsville Branch Library, 18700 Westwood Dr., 440-238-5530, cuyahogalibrary.org. FREE Gaming Club. Open to those interested in playing tabletop, role-playing or collectible card games. Second Mondays.

6:30-8:30 p.m. Reed Memorial Library, 167 E. Main St., Ravenna, 330-296-2827, reedlibrary.org. FREE WEDNESDAYS Inspiration Book Club. A club that specializes in motivational and encouraging books. First Wednesday of the month. 7 p.m.

Firestone Park Community Ctr., 1480 Girard St., 330-375-2806, akronohio.gov

THURSDAYS The Laughing Club. Laughter is the best medicine. 11 a.m.noon. South Euclid Community Center, 1370 Victory Dr., communitypartnershiponaging. org. FREE Singing Seniors. Do you enjoy singing? Come share your talent with others like you.

Patterson Park Community Ctr., 800 Patterson Ave., 330-3752819, akronohio.gov SATURDAYS Emerald Necklace Art Club.

Bring your favorite medium to appreciate the signs of the season. Not a member? Sign up at clevelandmetroparks. com/ENAC. First Saturdays at different locations.

9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. clevelandmetroparks.com. $20 Knights of The Square Table Chess Club. Calling all chess players! Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, come to open-play sessions. 11/9 & 11/23. 2-5 p.m. Lorain Public Library, 351 W. Sixth St., 440-244-1192, lorainpubliclibrary.org. FREE

Submit an event listing to Calendar@NortheastOhioBoomer.com or go to NortheastOhioBoomer.com

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Better Living After 50

EXHIBITS AKRON ART MUSEUM THROUGH 2/2/20 Open World: Video Games and Contemporary Art. Visual artists are gamers, too, yet video games are rarely examined as a major influence on contemporary art. Open World draws attention to this phenomenon. 1 S. High St., 330-376-9185, akronartmuseum.org AKRON FOSSILS & SCIENCE CENTER ONGOING New Creation Education Museum.

Dedicated to comparing and contrasting scientific models like intelligent design and evolution on the origin of the universe and catastrophism and uniformitarianism models on the geologic record. 2080 S. ClevelandMassillon Rd., Copley, 330-665-3466, akronfossils.com CLEVELAND HISTORY CENTER ONGOING Cleveland Starts Here. A place for Northeast Ohioans to locate their own stories and place themselves in the rich story of Cleveland and Northeast Ohio. A place for schoolchildren to experience the history of Cleveland and the region. 10825 East Blvd., 216-721-5722, wrhs.org THE CLEVELAND MUSEUM OF ART THROUGH 1/5 Michelangelo: Mind of the Master. An unprecedented opportunity for museum visitors to experience the brilliance of Michelangelo’s achievements on an intimate scale through more than two dozen original drawings. 11150 East Blvd., clevelandart.org CLEVELAND MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY THROUGH 12/1 Finding Lucy: Our First Steps in Discovery.

Meet the famous “Lucy” specimen of Australopithecus afarensi — the oldest pre human-ancestor fossil — to show evidence of upright walking at the time of her discovery. 1 Wade Oval Dr., cmnh.org

MALTZ MUSEUM OF JEWISH HERITAGE THROUGH 3/1 Leonard Bernstein: The Power Of Music.

The first large-scale museum exhibition to illustrate Leonard Bernstein’s life, Jewish identity and social activism. 2929 Richmond Rd., Beachwood, 216-593-0575, maltzmuseum.org NATURE CENTER AT SHAKER LAKES THROUGH 1/6 “Fragments” by Paula Zinsmeister. Artist Paula Zinsmeister uses printmaking and mixed media techniques to portray the beauty of natural plants and grasses. In some instances, paper was made by hand or dyed using plants. 2600 S. Park Blvd., 216-2315935, shakerlakes.org

12/9 Community Music Exploration. Sing and socialize with other Age Well participants.

3:30-4 p.m. Tapestry Senior Living Wickliffe, 28500 Euclid Ave., 844-312-5433, uhhospitals.org/agewell 12/12 “It’s a Wonderful Life” in Concert.

Experience Frank Capra’s cherished holiday film classic as you’ve never seen it before – with Dimitri Tiomkin’s heartwarming score performed live by The Cleveland Orchestra. 7:30 p.m., Severance Hall, 11001 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, 216-231-7300, clevelandorchestra.com, $45-127

ROCK & ROLL HALL OF FAME ONGOING The Garage: It’s Your Turn to Play. Pick up an instrument, crank up the volume and make your own music in the museum.

Designed to evoke the birthplace of rock bands for decades, The Garage is where it’s your turn to play. 1100 Rock & Roll Blvd., Cleveland, rockhall.com

MUSIC

11/27 Beatles Blowout. The Sunrise Jones performs arguably the best Beatles tribute in Northeast Ohio. 5:30 p.m. Music Box Supper Club, 1148 Main Ave., Cleveland, musicboxcle. com $20-25 12/3 Holiday Music Trivia. Listen to short snippets of a holiday song and name the song title or artists. Three rounds of trivia with 10 questions each. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Portage Lakes Branch Library, 4261 Manchester Rd., Akron, 330-644-7050, akronlibrary.org. FREE 12/7 Holiday Karaoke. Grab your friends and get your jingle on. 7-10 p.m. BAYarts, 28795 Lake Rd., Bay Village, 440-871-6543, bayarts.net

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WHAT´S HAPPENING 12/13 Home for the Holidays. Join the Akron Symphony Orchestra and special guests for an evening of traditional carols, inspiring songs and holiday cheer. 7:30 p.m. E.J Thomas Hall, 198 Hill St., Akron, 330-5358131, akronsymphony.org, $12-60 12/21 Winter Solstice. Featuring classical, jazz and contemporary cello ensemble arrangements. 6 p.m. & 7:30 p.m., The Music Settlement, University Circle 11125 Magnolia Dr., Cleveland, 216-421-5806, themusicsettlement.org, $10-20 First Snow. First Snow focuses on the musical & vocal precision and elegant rock opera show, including a professional production show of lights, complemented with visually exciting video. 8 p.m. The Kent

Stage, 175 East Main St., Kent, 330-6775005, thekentstage.com. $20-25

OUTDOORS

PICK YOUR DAY TUESDAYS Geauga Walkers. Join other active seniors on the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month for hikes in Geauga County and the surrounding area.

Hikes are typically 1 to 1.5 miles. 1-2:30 p.m. 440-279-2137, geaugaparkdistrict. org. FREE Hiking Seniority. Folks aged 55 and older meet year-round every Tuesday at nearby parks for nature appreciation, exercise and camaraderie. 10 a.m.-noon.

440-256-1404, lakemetroparks.com.

FREE

DAY BY DAY 11/22 Owl Prowl at Lakeview Cemetery. After a short presentation with LIVE owls, venture out with staff to find owls who have made their home at Lake View Cemetery. 7-9 p.m. The Nature Center at Shaker Lakes, 2600 S. Park Blvd., 216-231-5935, shakerlakes.org. $18 11/23 Retreat into Nature. Women are invited to come for an afternoon in nature to take a break from the hustle and bustle of life and unwind and unplug as you reunite with nature. 1-3 p.m. Krabill Shelter, 7597 Ballash Rd., Medina, medinacountyparks.com. FREE 12/21 Winter Solstice Celebration Candlelight Walk. Celebrate the longest night of the year on this popular evening walk by candlelight.

7:30-9:30 p.m. The West Woods Nature Center, 9465 Kinsman Rd., Russell Twp, 440286-9516, geaugaparkdistrict.org. FREE 12/27 Humor Hike. Come, enjoy nature jokes and riddles as you move at a steady pace along the difficult Dogwood Trail. 1-2:30 p.m. 1400 Sand Run Pkwy, Akron, summitmetroparks. com. FREE 1/4 Winter Myths Hike. Wintertime myths vs. cold, hard facts; a walking debate! 2-3:30 p.m. French Creek Reservation, 4530 Colorado Ave., Sheffield Village, metroparks. cc. FREE

SPECIAL EVENTS

11/21 Senior Resource Fair. Learn about inhome and senior living options. Light lunch provided. St. John Medical Center, 2900 Center Ridge Rd., Westlake, 844-312-5433, uhhospitals.org/agewell. FREE

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WHAT´S HAPPENING 11/22-24 Medina Candlelight Walk. Shops and restaurants of the nine-block Medina historic district will be open later into the evening to welcome local and visiting guests from around the region. Medina Public Square, mainstreetmedina.com.

FREE 11/23 Holiday Ales & Ciders. It’s the most wonderful time of the year to sample festive, seasonal brews.

7-10 p.m. Greater Cleveland Aquarium, 2000 Sycamore St., Cleveland, 216-862-8803, greaterclevelandaquarium.com. $20-40 11/23-1/4 Glow. This annual event transports you to a world full of seasonal cheer, where all-new wonders and returning traditions await you.

Cleveland Botanical Garden, 11030 East Blvd., Cleveland, 216-721-1600, cbgarden.org. $12-16 12/6-8 Home for the Holidays. Visions of sugarplums and other Christmas

goodies will be dancing in your head as you walk through the Lake County History Center.11 a.m.-4 p.m.

415 Riverside Dr., Painesville Twp., 440-639-2945, lakehistory.org. $5 12/7 Light Up Lakewood. Free, family-friendly event on Detroit Avenue, featuring a holiday parade, lighting ceremony, winter fireworks, live music, ice carvings and more. 4-8 p.m. 14701 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, lakewoodalive.com. FREE Greens for Giving. Join this make-and-GIVE event to create evergreen decorations for Geauga County Department on Aging’s home-delivered meals for seniors. Noon-3 p.m. The West Woods, 9465 Kinsman Rd., Russell Twp., 440-2869516, geaugaparkdistrict.org.

FREE

12/8 Holiday CircleFest. Annual Circle-wide celebration with activities, entertainment and a procession led by community lantern artists, illuminated dancers and giant puppets. 1-5: p.m. The Cleveland Museum of Art, 11150 East Blvd., 216-7072483, clevelandart.org. FREE 1/10 Flights & Bites. Gather at The Bistro for a fun and interactive experience in the casual, cozy Balconatta. The wine steward will lead guests through three wines paired with three appetizer bites. 5:45 p.m.

Gervasi Vineyard, 1700 55th St. NE, Canton, 330-497-1000, gervasivineyard.com. $16

TALKS

12/2 Holiday Internet with No Fuss for the 55+. If the internet seems overwhelming, join in for a stress-free program that will show you some easy and fun ways to use the internet this holiday season. 2 p.m. StowMunroe Falls Public Library, 3512 Darrow Rd., 330-6883295, smfpl.org. FREE 12/4 Retirement Income. People don’t plan to fail, but they fail to plan. Find out what five questions you should answer about retirement income before you retire. 7-8 p.m.

Geauga West Library, 13455 Chillicothe Rd., Chesterland, 440-729-4250, divi. geaugalibrary.net. FREE 12/5 On the Edge of Something Bigger: Empowering Steps for Retirees. Meet the author, Anja Sassenberg-DeGeorgia, at a book-launch party for a book that can empower retirees and change their lives. 7-8 p.m.

Beachwood Branch Library, 25501 Shaker Blvd., 216-8316868, cuyahogalibrary.org.

FREE 12/6 Caregiving Through the Holidays. Caregivers for people with memory loss face unique challenges. Learn about dementia stages, symptoms and tips to make holidays more manageable and enjoyable. Noon-3 p.m. Ellet

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Branch Library, 2470 E. Market St., Akron, 330-784-2019, akronlibrary.org. FREE Holiday Blues for Seniors. The holiday blues can be tough on seniors. The reasons can include losing loved ones, family living far away, not being as mobile, etc. Discover ways to beat the holiday blues. 10-11 a.m. Rocky River Public Library, 1600 Hampton Rd., 440-333-7610, rrpl.org. FREE 12/10 Save Money, Travel Well.

Learn money saving resources, strategies and tips for travelers.

Learn how to save money on local transportation, accommodations and local attractions. 7-8:30 p.m. North Olmsted Branch Library, 27403 Lorain Rd., 440-777-6211, cuyahogalibrary.org. FREE 12/12 Elderberries: Ansel Savage of the West Woods. Seniors, meet the legendary and mysterious Ansel Savage of Ansel’s Cave fame, as he steps out of the past to set the record straight regarding his 19th century days of yore in The West Woods. 9465 Kinsman Rd., Russell, 440-2869516, geaugaparkdistrict.org.

FREE 1/6 Senior Astronomy. Ages 50 and older, check out the stars and learn more about the solar system. 7-8:30 p.m.

Environmental Learning Center, 7250 Alexander Rd., Concord Twp., lakemetroparks.com. FREE 1/13 Healing Loneliness in Older Adults. Many older adults are experiencing a “Loneliness Epidemic” in the United States.

Join psychologist Dr. Sally Wilson in a discussion of likely causes, health risks and strategies to help overcome loneliness. 1:302:30 p.m. Shaker Library, 16500 Van Aken Blvd., 216-991-2030, shakerlibrary.org. FREE 1/14 Volunteer Orientation. Learn about volunteer opportunities.

10-11 a.m. Carlisle Reservation, 12882 Diagonal Rd., Lagrange, metroparks.cc. FREE

November/December 2019

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WHAT´S HAPPENING Prevent Cold and Flu Naturally.

Learn how to naturally prevent colds and flu with Nanci Miklowski, neuropathic doctor and owner of Cleveland Natural Health. 7-8 p.m. Geauga West Library, 13455 Chillicothe Rd., Chesterland, 440-729-4250, divi.geaugalibrary.net. FREE

“The Sound of Music.”

The spirited, romantic, and beloved story of Maria and the von Trapp Family. Fine Arts Association, 38660 Mentor Ave., Willoughby, 440-9517500, fineartsassociation.org, $15-25

THEATER & ARTS

11/29-12/23 “A Christmas Story.” One boy.

One holiday wish. And a world that seems to be conspiring to make certain it doesn’t come true. Allen Theatre, 1407 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, 216-771-4444, clevelandplayhouse.com, $20-80

11/26-12/22 “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.” The reimagining of the Biblical story of Joseph, his father Jacob, 11 brothers and the coat of many colors. Weathervane Playhouse, 1301 Weathervane Lane, Akron, 330-836-2626, $17-21 11/29-12/22 “A Christmas Carol.” One of Northeast Ohio’s favorite holiday traditions,” A Christmas Carol” is a perfect gift of theater for children and adults. Great Lakes Theater, 2067 E. 14th St., Cleveland, 216-241-5490, playhousesquare.org, $28-75

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12/6-7 & 12/13-14 “The Christmas Express.”

Leo Tannenbaum helps wisecracking characters find their way to the true wonder of Christmas. 8 p.m. Stow Players, 5238 Young Rd., Stow, 234206-0128, stowplayers.net, $15 12/6-1/5 “Shrek the Musical.” “Once upon a time, there was a little ogre named Shrek....” And thus begins the tale of an unlikely

hero who finds himself on a life-changing journey alongside a wisecracking Donkey and a feisty princess who resists her rescue. Beck Center for the Arts. 17801 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, 216521-2540, beckcenter.org, $10-33 12/6-12/15 “The Neverending Story.”

An epic tale of wonder where reality and fantasy intertwine. A boy is immersed in a magical book and finds himself on a quest to save the people of Fantastica.

Magical Theatre Company, 565 W. Tuscarawas Ave., Barberton, 330-848-3708, magicaltheatre.org, $15-19 12/6-22 “A Christmas Carol.” A small troupe of actors tell the entire redemptive story of Ebenezer Scrooge through puppetry, song and imagination. French Creek Theatre, 4530 Colorado Ave., Sheffield Village, 440949-5200, metroparks.cc/ theatre. $10-18

12/20 An Evening with Chevy Chase.

Light up your holidays with Chevy Chase live on stage and audience Q&A following a 30th anniversary screening of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. Akron Civic Theater, 182 S. Main St., Akron, 330-2532488, akroncivic.com, $39-200 1/8 Film Screening & Talk-Back.

Produced in celebration of Blossom’s 50th anniversary of the summer home of the Cleveland Orchestra, this film explores the history of the venue.

6:30 p.m. Maltz Museum of Jewish Heritage, 2929 Richmond Rd., Beachwood, 216-593-0575, maltzmuseum.org. $5-10 1/30-2/23 Sassy Mamas. Back by popular demand, in the autumns of their lives, three sophisticated and successful women find themselves living single and ready to mingle...but this time with much (much) younger men.

Karamu House, 2355 E. 89th Street, Cleveland, 216-795-7070, karamuhouse.org

DO BOOMERS SPEAK A DIFFERENT LANGUAGE?

Y

ears ago, my wife, Janice, and I took in our three nephews while their mother recovered from a car accident. They’re in their 20s and early 30s now but all were under school age when we had them.

I told the 3-year-old to sit on the hassock so I could tie his shoes.

“What’s that? My butt?” I realized that many of the common words that were used by our pre-Boomer parents were part of a different language.

When we visited my grandmother, she told us to hang our coats in the chifferobe and have a seat on the davenport. You scrubbed pans with a “chore boy” and canned foods were kept in the basement in the fruit bin, usually a room that was converted into a pantry that used to store coal.

We drank out of garden hoses, babies sat on their mom’s lap during car rides with no seat belts and we ran around with sparklers on the Fourth of July. If the weather was “close” (humid) you suffered through it because who had air conditioning?

And that brings me to modern conveniences.

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SAY WHAT? I made the mistake of mentioning to a classroom of college kids that where I live, we aren’t allowed to hang clothes outside. “Why would you do that? Is your dryer broke?” No, they smell better!

Mistake number two: I mentioned that a lot of old houses had home incinerators in the basement. “Wait a minute! You burned trash in your house? You built a fire in your basement!?” No, it was a controlled fire in a container. The concept was Last issue, I asked what was Ozzie Nelson’s occupation on TV’s “The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet”? He was always home! Well, Ozzie was a retired bandleader who married his lead singer, Harriet Hilliard. You mention an Ozzie that led a band now and they think it’s the guy who bit the head off the bat.

BOOM TRIVIA

FOR NEXT TIME: This Prospect Avenue bookstore had three floors and was famous for having books stacked everywhere, but the proprietors knew exactly where to find everything. Name the store.

BOOM! POP CULTURE CHRON ICLES MIKE OLSZEWSKI

foreign to them.

Then there was the party line.

“You’d have a party on the phone?

Why don’t you just invite them over?”

This comes from a generation that has never actually dialed a phone or has heard a dial tone.

Boomers were the generation that could smoke in college classrooms.

At some high schools, the seniors had a special room to light up. If someone gave you a hard time, you “pasted them in the mouth.” Football players wore a lot less equipment.

They also had shorter life spans but who knew back then? I tried to explain fountain pens, trading stamps, paper drives and eight-track tapes. They looked at me like I was from another planet. I was able to adequately describe the concept of CB (citizen band) radios, people using a medium to rattle on about nothing in their boring lives. Now it’s called Facebook.

READY, SET, SHOP! The holiday season used to start the day after Thanksgiving, but now it’s the day after Halloween when Christmas carols take over the radio.

Back then, you went to Nela Park to see the elaborate light displays, Halle’s seventh floor to get a paper key from Mr. Jingeling, there was one of Santa’s “helpers” at every department store (usually stinking from a Chesterfield King) and then to Higbee’s Silver Grille where kids’ lunches were served in a little stove.

Now you take your pets to get a photo with Santa.

Mike Olszewski is a veteran award-winning radio, TV and print journalist and college instructor. Contact him at molszew1@ksu.edu.